The Many Adventures of KiKi

Day 12: I'm attracted to this....

2012-02-08T00:01:00.000-06:00

That's right. Joshua Radin. He's got it all...well almost. He doesn't have me...yet! Haha...but really.

Day 11: Fitness Guru or Couch Potato?

2012-01-27T02:14:00.001-06:00

I wish I was the type of person that woke up at 5am every morning, without fail, to workout. There are people that I am friends with that can't function for the rest of the day if they don't go to the gym or do some form of exercise. I wish I had that problem!! Almost as badly as I wish for a tape worm....honestly. I do however, enjoy working out. This past year, I have been more committed to running. I feel that it has helped the most to get back in shape, although I am still far from it. I am trying to get sexy toned legs by the time I am 30, which is in 6 months. This is the best way that I know how. If anybody has any fresh ideas on how to get them quicker, I am open for suggestions. As for the couch potato part...I am more than willing to sit or lay my fat butt on the couch and watch episode after episode of "One Tree Hill" or anything on my DVR or On Demand. I stand on my feet all day long at my job. Not only am I standing and I literally running around. I love it, but it can be tiring. So sometimes the last thing I really want to do is go running.

So there you have it. I'm a little bit of both.

P.S. I MUST give a shout out to my friend, Brianna, who runs with me frequently. She pushes me to run faster and longer and more often. Thanks friend!!

Day 10: The ol' Bucket List

2012-01-25T22:45:00.004-06:00

Yes...it's been 5ish days since my last post, but work has been insane...in a very good way! So here is a new post about my bucket list. I have never really made a list so here are some things off of the top of my head that I would like to do before I die...

1. Own a rediculously, fabulous, expensive purse. Maybe a Berkin.

2. Buy my own TV

3. Have/ adopt (if need be) a baby.

4. Have sexy toned legs (this is actually a goal to be done before I'm 30....in 6 months)

5. Go to Europe, especially Austria to take the Sound of Music Tour

6. Write a book

7. Record an albulm

8. To love someone more than myself

9. To live by my sister, Libby, at some point

10. To learn and master the French language

There you have it. 10 things I want to do. Some are long time wanted goals...some I just made up.

Day 9: Post a funny photo

2012-01-20T02:19:00.003-06:00

Ok. I found this on my brother-in-law's facebook. Thanks Scott for the good laugh. Wait...I hope you weren't talking about me???

Day 8: Under the Sea

2012-01-19T00:08:00.001-06:00

My Favorite Disney Princess is...you guessed it..."The Little Mermaid." The movie came out in 1989. I was 7. My mom took me and my sister to go see it. I LOVED it! I loved it so much I even lied to my grandmother that I hadn't seen it so she would take me again. She saw right through that lie. In the summer, my friends and I would reenact the seen where she would come out of the water and perch herself on a rock. We memorized all of the songs and dreamed that one day our love interests would row us in a boat while fish and crustaceans sang a love song to us. This last Christmas, Santa left each girl a princess pen that lights up topped off with our favorite princess. Of course I got Ariel. We also got a princess ornament. You're never too old to love a Disney Princess. Thanks Ariel, for being my favorite princess.

Day Seven: Do the iPod Shuffle

2012-01-18T00:27:00.000-06:00

So today's blogging challenge is to put my iPod on shuffle and see what the next 10 songs are. I have the most random taste in music so you never know what may come up....so here it goes!

1. "The World to Me" by David Gray
2. "Home is Where the Heart is" by Lady A
3. "Before We Come Undone" by Kris Allen
4. "Headlock" by Imogen Heap
5. "Wildwood Flower" by Reese Witherspoon (as June Carter Cash on "Walk the Line")
6. "2-1" by Imogen Heap
7. "Howl" by Florence + the Machine
8. "Said I Wasn't Gonna Tell Nobody" by Sam and Dave
9. "Norway" by Beach House
10. "Huddle Formation" by The Go! Team

So not too bad! Look a couple of these up if you don't them. Can't wait to see everybody else's list.

Day 6: Someone who inspires me

2012-01-17T01:04:00.000-06:00

So I am living up to my promise....I have not blogged every day...but I'm still WAY better than I used to be. Today's blogging topic is about someone who inspires me.

A few years ago, a girl at my work told me about a blog that she loved and thought that I would like it. too She even told me that the woman who wrote the blog was a Mormon, just like me. Her name is Stephanie Nielson and she is the blogger of "The Nei Nei Dialogues."I started to read her blog and was hooked! She had been in a terrible plane accident with her husband and suffered from burns from 80% of her body. I had started reading her blog while she was in recovery. Her sisters and husbad kept her blog up for her until she was able to return. I decided to go to past blog posts and learn more about her and her family. She is truely an inspiring woman. From her love of her family, her husband, her faith, to her hobbies, she finds delight in everything around. She is also very real. There are some blog posts about her trials and her heartaches. She has made me laugh, cry and overall put my life into perspective. Am I grateful for what I have? Am I making the most of my time here on Earth? Am I truely getting the most out of my relationships with my friends and family? Thank you to my co-worker, Collette, for introducing me to this blog. Please take a moment to read it. She is also coming out with a book this April entitled, "Heaven is Here." You can go to a link on her blog that will take you to a preview of her book.

Day 5: Favorite Hobbies

2012-01-13T01:19:00.001-06:00

So I'm not really a "hobby" type of person. I like to do stuff...but it usually comes in waves. For example, I like to go to movies, but I will go for months without going to the theater. Then I could go to the movies every week. So nothing consistent. I can give you a list of activities that I enjoy:

-Playing the guitar and singing
-Baking
-Going to flea markets or antique shops
-Going to concerts
-Running
-Going to new restaurants
-Reading

Well, I hope this boring post didn't put you to sleep! Have a great day!

Day 4: Favorite Bands and Artists

2012-01-12T00:38:00.000-06:00

I would like to say that I absolutely LOVE music!! It was really hard to narrow it down to just 3 artists, but here is goes:

1. Ray LaMontagne: I saw him back in 2006 at ACL. Going to ACL was a live changing experience for me so seeing Ray while I was there made it even better. Some of my favorite songs of his: "Empty," "Hold You In My Arms," "Shelter," "All the Wild Horses," "You Are the Best Thing" and "Lesson Learned." Here is a musical snack from Ray:

http://youtu.be/hzmKCxEghuA

2. Dolly Parton: I don't care who you are, you have a go to Dolly song in your repertoire. I have loved Dolly ever since I was a little girl. Living in Tennessee, we had a lot of exposure to her. I remember listening to her book on tape going to and from school. I love to sing her songs at Karaoke and I think she is just fabulous! One of my favorite songs she sings is "Jolene." It was her first of many blockbuster of songs she would release. One of my favorite performances of her singing "Jolene" is when she appeared on CMT Crossroads with Melissa Etheridge. They both sang the heck out it so take it away Dolly....and Melissa!!

http://youtu.be/dMlFG7UFVvc

3. Joshua Radin: I have seen this guy more than any other artist. 5 to be exact. In fact, the last time I saw him, his "people" sent me free tickets because I said on Facebook that I planned on attending. I have had several conversations with him and am confident that if he saw me on the street he would remember me. Some of my favorite songs that he sings are, " Lovely Tonight," "What if You," "Paperweight," "Closer," "They Bring Me to You," "You Got What I Need" and so much more!! If you ever get the chance to see him live, please do. It will rock your world! P.S. Ellen is a huge fan too!

http://youtu.be/PE08LeKxDT4

I miss you this much!

2012-01-10T23:03:00.001-06:00

Day 3 of the blogging challenge: Write about someone you miss.

This someone would be my best friend and sister, Libby. Here is a little ditty on why I love her so much.

-We are only 21 months apart. I don't remember a time without her, so we just as well should be twins.
-We were referred to, and sometimes still are, as "the little girls."
-She knows most of my secrets.
-She has been there for me when I have felt alone.
-She makes me laugh more than anyone else.
-She will sing rap with me in an opera voice.
-She has been such a great example to me. I know I'm the older sister, but she really has become one of the best women I know.
-She's an amazing mom and wife. I always knew she was going to a great mom. She has wowed me with her patience, love and unconditional dedication to her kids and husband.

Why I miss her...I know I don't need to really explain this but she lives in Utah and that's far away from me. I hope and pray we can live by each other soon. Hopefully when I have my own family.

Libby, I love you and you mean the world to me! I miss you everyday!

I have a crush on you...

2012-01-10T00:03:00.003-06:00

Day 2 of the blogging challenge: Celebrity crush. I would like to lie to you and say that it took a lot of time to debate who my celebrity crush is, but I really don't like to lie. It took no time at all. I have had a crush on this guy for years. YEARS!! I know he's a little younger than me, but really love knows no age....or something like that. He has starred in many critically acclaimed films such as, "Hairspray," "Charlie St. Cloud," "High School Musical," "New Years Eve" and in the movie in which I fell in love, "17 Again." I know. It's a little shameful to have a crush on someone that teenagers swoon over, but really? Did you take a good look at those abs? And he has dance moves to die for. I take it back! I'm not ashamed! I am proud to annouce that my celebrity is crush is none other than the gorgeous ZAC EFRON!!!

Swoon <3

***Even though I may not be ashamed, I know my 14 year old niece would be really embarrassed for me.

***Also, it would be rediculous to not mention that Bama won it's 2nd National Championship in 3 years!! Roll Tide Roll!!!

30-Day Blog Challenge

2012-01-08T22:27:00.003-06:00

My friend, Brianna, was talking about completing a 30 day challenge on blogging and I thought it was BRILLIANT!! So here goes for Day 1.

**Disclaimer** Days may not be consistent in a row and topics can be dismissed or changed at the bloggers will.

Day 1 Challenge: Post a photo of yourself and 10 facts about yourself.

1. I think I am one of the funniest amongst my friends. I know they think the same.

2. I have donated my hair once for Locks of Love. I am currently growing it out again. Almost there!

3. I have 4 Neices and Nephews. They are the best! To them, I am known as Aunt Kiki.

4. I play the guitar and sing. Not great, but not bad either.

5. I love to paint my nails.

6. I am obsessed with Zooey Deschanel. From her music, to her new show, to her blog....I can't get enough!

7. I'm from the South and I don't mean Texas. I am from the true South, Tennessee and Alabama.

8. I have the most adorable dog, Chewy. He's lives with my brother right now and I miss him a lot.

9. I set a goal last summer to get sexy, toned legs by my 30th birthday...which is in 6 months. I'm going to have to work my booty off...and maybe cut out carbs. People say I'm a "B" when I don't eat carbs...

10. I'm attracted to men with beards. Not unruly, nasty, food infested beards, but nicely kept beards.

Let's be real

2011-09-05T23:46:00.001-05:00

Yesterday at church, my friend spoke about blogging. I know. Not something that is typically preached over the pulpit, but he had some great insight about it. He talked about how typically when we blog, we are blogging the best parts of our lives and sometimes when we are reading other people's blogs, we tend to start comparing our lives to theirs, thinking that they're life is so much better than our own. IT IS SOOOOO TRUE!!! I am guilty of comparing my life to other people's lives because at one time or another I have felt that my life is on hold because I don't have a husband or children yet, that I'm not as cultured because I don't travel enough, or that I don't have the luxury of time to craft and post pictures of my masterpieces. Feeling this way is not the intent of blogging. Blogging is intended to keep people up-to-date on your life, to display your creativity and to share your feelings both good and bad. It's a way that we connect. So I will put on a new attitude when reading other's posts.

On another note.... I was driving to my friend, Alexa's house this evening and Maria Tayor's "Time Lapse Lifeline" started playing. As I was driving, I noticed that the sun was almost setting and somehow the last light of the sun was bouncing through the trees as I was driving through the curves of the road and it was keeping the beat of the song. Have you ever had an experience with a song where it felt as though it was part of your life...almost like the soundtrack of your life? Well I had this moment this evening and I thought I would share her video with you. So enjoy! http://youtu.be/qvFALSUopFE

Birthday weekend

2011-08-01T23:26:00.000-05:00

So my birthday as come and gone and I am one year older. I had a fabulous 5 days off in a row!! I was able to sleep, clean, go to lunch with a friend who just moved back to Dallas, hang out with friends, catch up on "The Hills,"get a mani and pedi, spray tan, celebrate my birthday, get my dogs groomed, clean some more, read, make 4 floral arragements, host a lingerie shower, take a couple of naps, taught my niece how to pick the perfect bloom, see Brad Paisley and Blake Shelton, prepare and give a talk for church, attend a fireside and write up training plans for work. I guess I did a lot!

Here are a few pictures for you!

My friend, Tim and I at the Brad Paisley concert

Ready for my Luau

Flowers that I arranged for the shower. My mom would be so proud!

I went back to work today and to be honest I was dreading it a little bit. However, I had such a great day and I felt so refreshed. I think I over did it a little bit....I came home and crashed into a 3 hour nap. Anyhoo....I was able to catch up on Project Runway. I don't have any favorites yet, but there is a guy on there that is one of my friends best friends....technically making me famous.

Until next time, friends....goodnight.

Golden Year

2011-07-29T01:02:00.000-05:00

So I've had this blog for a while and it's entitled, "The Many Adventures of Kiki." Sorry for the huge let down on the "many" adventures. This year I turn (deep breath) 29 on the 29th. That means it's my golden birthday and I'm going so far to say it's my golden year. I haven't quite figured out what amazing things will happen, but I know that there are several things that I can control and for the most part so many things that I can't control. I guess we can call those things, "surprises and delights." One thing that I can control is how much I blog...so from here on out, you'll be hearing from me a little more.

So bring it on 29. I'm going to make the best of it!

Mother I love you, Mother I do....

2011-05-09T00:09:00.000-05:00

I know that I am barely posting this before Mother's Day is over, but I just wanted everyone to know how amazing my dear, sweet momma is. That's right...we're from the South and that's what we call our moms!! I didn't get to celebrate with my momma today but I thought about all of the wonderful things she has done for me and our family. So here's to you momma! Revel in the awesomeness that is you!!!

Mom will never pass up an opportunity to tell a joke....or even tell it a second time, or third...Thanks for your sense of humor and your ability to laugh with us.

My Momma would tell me that as a child, me and my younger sister, Libby, would snuggle with her after the older kids went to school. She tells me frequently that she misses those times. I do too.

On cold mornings, Momma was always good at laying our clothes out in front of the heater so that they would be nice and toasty as we put them on. Something so little has stayed with me for so long. Sometimes when it's cold, I wish I was a kid again and that Momma was here to lay my clothes out.

Momma takes care of everything. From being the room mother in elementary school, bringing snacks for the softball team, making costumes for ballet recitals, taking care of injuries or allowing me to move home for a week when I had mono so that she could take care of me....she has always been there for me.

People tell me all of the time, "you have amazing hair!" I simply reply, "I got it from my momma."

Notice Momma's gorgeous hair!

No offense Momma, but you can't carry a tune....but I love that you recognized the importance of music in our lives and sacrificed a lot of time and money so that we could have a life filled with music. Because of you, I always have a song in my heart.

Momma is the best story teller. When I was little, we would go on walks around Leford's Mill (in Tennessee) and she would tell me about her parents, her grandparents and her siblings. She has an innate ability to tell a story and depict it in a way that you can picture what she is telling you. To me, it was the best way that she could ever link me with my family...some of them that I never knew.

My momma has the most beautiful green eyes and she was so kind that she passed them on to me! When I was little, my siblings, who all had blue eyes, would gang up on me and tell me that I was adopted because I had green eyes. I would run and cry to her and she would wipe my tears away and tell me that was untrue. She would always remind me that I was the only child that got her eyes.

So many times I would walk into my momma's room and either find her reading her scriptures or on her knees praying. What a beautiful testimony of action that my momma was able to show to me. Momma sets the best example!

The list could go on and on and on. I love my momma. She is my world. I am thankful, momma, that He has sent me to you. Happy Mother's Day!

Love,

Kate

"Some of the best things in life are right in front of you"

My friends are cooler than yours.

2011-04-11T23:30:00.001-05:00

So I was hanging out with my friends the other day and we found a pair of handcuffs. Guess what we decided to do with them.....wrestle.

Please pardon my hearty laugh. A trait passed on from my father. Thanks dad.

Guess who stopped by to visit me at work?

2011-04-11T01:01:00.000-05:00

My sweet baby Blair popped in to see me while I was at work today. She looked so adorable in her Alice and Wonderland smocked dress and her hair complete with curls and a bow. We walked over to look at the ducks and turtles and she was so excited. She did all of her tricks, inclding her ballet dancing. She held my hand and gave me sweet kisses.

She looks so much like my little sister Libby so much here. Her hair is getting blonder and blonder. I can't believe that she will be 2 in June!!

Here is another fun picture of her:

And of course I can't forget about my little prince Colin. I bought him a pair of Toms for Christmas and my brother-in-law texted me this picture:

Stay tuned for tomorrow's post of what I witnessed this evening. Any guesses? Hint: It involves handcuffs.

Feeling Better

2011-04-08T01:09:00.000-05:00

So I'm not feeling sorry for myself anymore. I really do hate that I feel that way from time to time. I am very lucky that I have all of my family members still in my life. On a happier note I am so excited for my trip to Alabama in May. Every year my Mom's side of the family gets together for decoration (they go and put flowers on the family graves) and then has a big family dinner. I haven't been to this in over 10 years. Some of my family members I have seen since I was 19. My sister, Libby and her husband and son, are going to fly in from SLC and mom and dad are in driving up from Orlando. Im very excited to see them and spend time with them. We will also be seeing my dad's side of the family while we're there. This will be my first big road trip by myself. 11 hours of driving....any good tips on how to not get bored?

Middle Child Syndrome

2011-04-04T22:47:00.000-05:00

So I feel that I have been totally suffering from middle child syndrome. I used to be teased as a kid by my siblings that I was left on the doorstep by a woman in army boots. I guess that triggered my insecurities that would continue into adulthood. Just yesterday I whined to my mom that if I didn't call my parents or siblings, I would never hear from them. It's true. I reach out to them more than they do to me. I always get the same excuses that they're just so busy. LAME. I'm busy. I have things to do. Just because I don't have children or a husband doesn't mean I don't have things to do. I manage 50+ people and run a multi-million dollar business. On a side note, sometimes I don't feel like my parents or siblings take me seriously because Im not married or have children. I don't get the attention they get from my parents. You would think a little more effort would be given to the kid/sibling that doesnt have anyone to spoil her...

I know what you're thinking. Somebody call the wambulance!! Hopefully this feeling will go away....and soon. It just makes me a little sad. Sorry for the downer post. I promise the next one will be way more positive.

Just Dance 2

2011-01-03T00:38:00.001-06:00

This is probably the smartest thing I have ever bought. I played it tonight for 2 hours!! What a great workout! And I look really cool doing it....nope! I am going to do this everyday and hopefully it will get me into shape!!

Cheers for a great 2011!!!

Things that I'm Thankful For

2010-11-18T23:12:00.000-06:00

Thanksgiving is my favorite time of year! This year I feel that I have so much to be thankful for. I've had a really rough day today. Probably one of the worst days I've had in a really long time. Even though I've had a tough day, I'm ending it with the realization that my Heavenly Father loves me and is very mindful of my needs. In my lowest moments I know that I can cry out and ask for guidence, for comfort and for mercy.

Today I have also realized how strong I can be. Strong willed and very stubborn, almost to a fault. I can be so strong minded that I can become my own worst enemy. But where I am faulted I am humbled to know that I can change and make decisions that sometimes I'm afraid to make. Some things that I have come to realize: If I settle for less than mediocre, then I will be extremly unhappy. If I feel that I only deserve less than greatness, I will never reach my full potential.

I am grateful for an amazing family who loves and supports me. They make me laugh, cry and realize that I am truely blessed. They are my best friends. I have nieces and a nephew that have a piece of my heart and allow me a glimpse of what it will be like to love someone so uncnditionally. My parents are amazing individuals. I am sad that they live so far away, escpecially at times like this. I do know that they are just a flight, a phone call or a text away. My siblings are extrodiary people. Amazing. I am thankful for a strong older brother and beautiful and talented sisters. I'm thankful for the men that my sisters have married and that I have the privelage to call family.

I am grateful for a job that challenges me and makes me feel like I matter.

I am grateful for amazing and understanding friends who no matter how many times I fail, will pick me up and hold me up so that I may gather strength. I am grateful for the laughs and for the many adventures that I have with them.

Most of all I am gateful for the Gospel in my life and how we as imperfect indivduals have the opportunity to learn and grow in this life. I am so grateful for my Savior, Jesus Christ, who died not only for my sins, but suffered and felt my sorrows and pain. He knows what I am going through and that stregthens me and allows me to get through the tough times.

My brother-in-law, Kristopher's father was recently injured by a fall. It is serious and scary. My sister's in-laws are So incredible. Libby and Kris live far away from us and it comforts me to know that she has an amazing family support out in Utah. They are so warm and inviting and everytime I visit I feel as though I am part of their family... I guess I am in a way. When I found out about what happen to Kris's father, I immediately prayed for peace and comfort for their family and a full recovery for Dave. I was overwhelmed when I learned about all of the blessings that this ezperience has brought about. Kris was able to exercise his Priesthood duties and many fell to their knees in humble prayer. My prayers continue to go out to the Brown family. They are truely loved by so many and I know that Heavenly Father's servants will be able to bring relief and comfort. That is what ties us all together and for that I am extremly grateful.

I realize that this post is long and that I have used the word "grateful" a billion times. But I am so blessed and I would be selfish not to express my gratitude for all of the many blessings I have in my life. See....today wasn't totally horrible if I can recount eveything that I am blessed to have in my life. May you take a moment in a time of despair, lonliness, suffering or indifference to realize all of the blessings that you have in your life.

Have a Cheerful and Safe Thanksgiving holiday!

Love you!

The bestest of the best blessings....

2009-09-25T00:45:00.000-05:00

Today I became an aunt for the 3rd time. In the midst of my blogging sabatical I did not write about the 2nd time I became an aunt. It only happened 3 months ago.

On June 23rd, a long awaited princess was born into our family: Blair Kennedy Collins. She is truely an answer to many, many prayers. I had the opportunity to be at the hospital while she was being born and had the privelage to hold her before she was 1 hour old. I fell in love! I just inhaled one breath of her and I swear I could smell Heaven on her. I was so happy for my sister, Sarah and her husband, Scott. Over the past few months I've been able to watch her grow. If I miss a week seeing her, I miss too much! She smiles and giggles and drinks a lot of milk!!! She also loves watching Paula Dean! She's definitely a Kreider!!!! I love this little angel so much and I hope that I can be the best "Aunt Kiki" for her!

Me and Blair

Sweet baby angel!

Proud Mom and Dad!

Today, (well technically yesterday) my younger sister and her husband welcomed their first child, Colin Kristopher Brown. Colin is the little prince that we have been waiting for! We have so many girls in our family! We're excited to have a little boy! I noticed that after he was born, Libby put her Facebook status as, "My cup runneth over." When I read that, the realization that my "little Libby" was all grown up hit me and I was overwhelmed with happiness for her. I am so proud of her and I can't hardly wait for October 17th when I get to fly to SLC to see them! Libby and I grew up only 21 short months apart from one another. We were basically twins, often referrred to as the "little girls." We did everything together. We wore the same clothes, played with the same toys, worked at the same places, had a lot of the same friends. We even had the chance to go to college together. It's amazing to see her move ahead in her life and to see her grow. She's paving a great path for me to follow. I love you Libby VERY much!!!

Welcome little prince!

Just Colin and his mommy!

So Sweet!!

I am one proud Aunt Kiki! Those kids don't know what's coming their way with being in the Kreider family! I promise you that it won't be boring and that Aunt Kiki will always be your favorite aunt!!!

And for my precious Izzy who has been with our family for 12 years..... you are very special to me. Hold on to being a little girl just for a little bit longer!!! I love you very, very much.

Sorry that I haven't blogged

2009-09-07T01:02:00.000-05:00

In a while! I've been SUPER busy. I know that's a lame excuse but it's the truth! Work has been crazy...in a good way. My friend Sierra and I have also initiated a S.A.P. That stands for Social Action Plan. We are trying to be more social with more people. We try to go to every activity at church and accept most social invitations. It's exhausting but necessary.

I had the best weekend. Friday night was my friend's birthday so we had a surprise party for him. Then on Saturday me, Sierra, and Christine woke up bright and early to drive out to Canton for first Monday. We had a blast!!! We found so many treasures that we wanted to take home with us and somehow I ended up with 4 bricks of fudge. After that, we met up with everybody at the BYU/OU game. Our Bishop had a suite at the new Cowboy stadium. I also got to catch up with a lifetime family friend, Ben Decker, who was visiting from out of town. It was an intense game and BYU pulled through for the win! Hopefully I will get some pictures soon to post! My camera was dead :(!!! Church was also amazing! The lessons were what I needed to hear exactly! I love it when that happens! I feel that Heavenly Father knows exactly how to reach me and teach me what I need to know for this time in my life!

Well, back to a busy week! I promise to update with some interesting adventures from my S.A.P soon!!!!

Top 10 reasons why I have the best Dad!!!

2009-06-21T02:33:00.000-05:00

To honor my father this Father's Day, I have decided to post the top 10 reasons why I have the best Dad. This is not in lui of giving my dad a Father's Day gift....he's coming to town in a few weeks and will get his gift then. Of course there are more than 10 reasons why Dad is amazing but I had to narrow it down! Without further ado....the top 10!!!!

10. He sure loves a good girlie movie. Anytime we want to watch a movie my dad suggests "The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood." Why, might you ask? We have no idea. He claims that he just wants to give us the option of watching a girlie movie. Enter in nickname #1: Girlie-mon (as said in Jamaican accent)

9. He taught me how to play the guitar when I was 17. It was the summer before I left for college and I was finally determined to learn how to play. He sat me down and taught me how to read the chords to John Denver's "Take Me Home, Country Roads." From then on I was hooked! Thanks dad for passing down the musical talent!!

8. My dad is the hardest working man I know! My dad can't sleep in to save his life. I have learned this in the last few years. Sometimes, when I spend the night at my parent's house, I sleep on the couch. Without fail, I will be woken up at 6 am to my father unloading pots and pans in the kitchen or to him mowing the lawn at 8 am. If I can't sleep in, I stay in bed and read....my father- he works!! Thanks dad for teaching us a great work ethic!

7. When my dad was 19 he thought the world of red head Dicie Martin. Enough so that they got married! Together, they have 4 children, 1 grandchild, 2 more on the way and 3 grandpuppies. Thanks for always treating mom with respect and love and for being such a great leader in our family! You two make being in love look easy!!

6. Dad's cookin'!!! Whether he broils, bake, grill, fry, sautee or marinate, Dad is famous for his cookin'! Pralines, banana pudding, shrimp boils, crawfish etoufee, grilled veggies, brisket with homemade BBQ sauce, fresh salsa, saugage balls, you name it!!! The man sure can cook!!! What makes this quality even better is his enthusiasim when he describes what he's cooking. Siblings....you know what I'm talking about!!

5. Dancing in the kitchen. Me and Libby would always fight over who got to dance with Daddy in the kitchen. It first started out with me dancing on his feet, then it moved on to me following his steps. This past year we mastered turns. Yep! We're amazing!!! Here's to many more years to dancing in the kitchen and hopefully at my wedding (keep your fingers crossed for me on that one!)

4. A story is always funnier when Dad tells it. Just a couple of days ago, Libby was telling me about a story Dad had told her and how when he was telling it, she couldn't understand what he was saying because he was laughing/crying so hard. He probably was producing some of his famous crocidile tears! This makes us laugh so hard. It's even funnier if he's with his brother Chris. Together they make the old man laugh and just cry!!!

3. Whether it's the first day of school, first day of a new job, a day when I'm sick or just a time when I'm have a difficult day, my dad has always be ready and worthy to give a Priesthood blessing. I don't live by my dad right now and there are times that I long for a comforting blessing that only a Father can give. I am very blessed to have my dad to be there for me and to offer those blessings to me.

2. My Dad is a superhero. 11 years ago we were in a bad car accident. When Dad finally came home from the hospital he had to live downstairs and my mom had to shampoo is hair in the kitchen. She would wrap this yellow plastic cape-like thing around his shoulders to act as a funnel for the water into a bucket. While she lathered his hair up she would make funny hairdo's for my dad. There, with his cape and awesome do he was given his superhero nickname. Enter in nickname #2: Dudemon. also known as Dude. Dad- you are defineltly a superhero to me whether you realize it or not. You know how to make rough situations smooth, scary situations calm and love us no matter what!!

1. The number 1 reason why I have the best dad is........that he serves the Lord so faithfully and leads our family by example. Dad has always faithfully served in numerous church callings, completed home teaching assignments every month and donated time and talents in serving others. What an amazing legacy to pass onto to us and to our children. You are very much loved and appreciated, dad! You're an amazing person and I am very grateful to celebrate and honor you this Father's Day!!!

The most beautiful....

2009-06-01T01:11:00.000-05:00

I have the 2 most beautiful sisters ever! Both of them are expecting their first babies this year. Sarah is about 34-35 weeks along and she is having a baby girl, Blair Kennedy Collins. It has been a real treat to live by her while she is going through this experience. I don't think she will ever know how proud I am of her and what a wonderful sight she is everytime I see her. I have had the privilege of feeling "peaches" (her nickname) kick and hiccup in her mommy's belly. She is due on July 4th.

Libby, the baby of the family is 22 weeks along with a baby boy. She is undecided on a name so I will wait to post his name until his mommy and daddy have made up their minds. Unlike Sarah, Libby lives far away so I have to rely on pictures to see her growing in her pregnancy. I am also very proud of Libby. She has always been the mothering kind so I know that she will be a wonderful mother! Baby boy is due October 2nd.

Sarah's baby shower is next week so stay tuned for more pictures!!!

I HEART Kris Allen!!!

2009-05-21T02:51:00.000-05:00

I have been a huge fan of Kris Allen since he sang "Ain't no sunshine when she's gone." That's the first time he really got kudos and got noticed. From then on he did nothing but wow me! Well, if I'm being honest, and I always try to be, I thought Adam was going to win it for sure!!! I didn't want him to, but I thought he was definitely going to take it! When I watched the season finale this evening I was elated to find out that Kris won!!! I jumped and scream and threw my little Chewy up in the air!! What a great feeling! So ha! to you Elizabeth Berrey! I guess you didn't vote as many times as me!!! JK!!! Love you girl!

We went out and celebrate this evening by going to Sneaky Pete's to sing karaoke. We had such a blast and such a great group of people!!! I will be posting a video later of my friend Jordan grinding with a cougar! Top notch night!!! Speaking of night....good night!

It's a Combo

2009-05-13T21:08:00.001-05:00

I am now just watching last night's American Idol. So i will be combining the show and the results show's post.

So we're down to the final three: Danny, Adam and my lover Kris. I heard a little spoiler about Kris from my work BFF Whitney. All I have to say is that I heart him so much!

Danny Gokey: Dance Little Sister- Paula's pick- Danny's voice is so amazing!!! But I don't like the song choice Paula!! Just in: Toni just informed me that Danny is a choir director for his church. Explains so much!!!
Danny's pick: You are so beautiful- My prediction that it will be amazing!! Toni's prediction is that he is out. I loved it! His vocals are amazing! A vocal master class- by Simon.

Kris Allen: Judges pick: Apologize- Loved it!!!! He gives me the chingles everytime!!! I love Simon!!!! He called Kara out!!! Awkward fighting and I loved it!
Kris's pick: Heartless: I heard raves about this performance tonight and this was my most anticipated performance. I loved it!!!! Better than the original.

Adam Lambert: Simon's pick: One: Simon said a brilliant performance....so brilliant we fast forwarded through half of it.
Adam's Pick: Crying- I persoonally love this song....I wore this albulm out when I was 10 years old!!! I really loved his performance but I don't like him.

The Results: Danny goes home. Boo!!! He's amazing and will do fantastic things!!!

Who will win next week? All of my prayers will be going to Kris!!! Remember to vote as many times for him this next week!!

Who got schooled?

2009-05-06T22:45:00.000-05:00

Pretty sure that Paula lip synched her performance. Weak sauce. She is older than dirt and definitely not able dance and sing at the same time!!!!

I love No Doubt and Gwen Stefani but she looked very butch to me tonight. Yikes!

Kris is the first one that is safe!!! My hands hurt from clapping so hard!!!

Adam is the next person safe....whoopie-dee-doo.

Danny is safe!!!! My prediction was wrong!!! Thank goodness!!!!

Alison is going home....nice try honey!!!

Can't wait for next week!!!

My first set

2009-05-05T20:36:00.000-05:00

So last weekend my work held an Earth Day event at our store. We had flowers for little kids to pot and lots of yummy treats.thumprints from Magnolia Bakery. This event allowed the moms of the kids potting the plants time to shop with our stylists. I was asked by my store manager if I could bring my guitar and sing some songs. I agreed and came up with a set of songs to sing. I also picked a couple of songs for me and my assistant ops manager, Lauren, to duet.

The week of the event I probably put in 5 hours a day of practice time! My fingers were very sore, but I was excited for the event. My district manager, Alix, and my regional manager, Elizabeth showed up. That made me a little nervous.

Overall the performance went really well! I love playing the guitar and singing and sharing a talent that I have been blessed with. I really need to to this more often! Lauren and I were a hit with our duets!!! It was a miracle that we didn't mess up because we only ran through the songs a few times. I would love for me and her to do some other songs together.

On the list:
"You're Not Sorry."= Taylor Swift
"You and Onions"- Meiko
"Give Me a Reason"- Meiko
"Giving Up"- Ingrid Michaelson
"Falling Slowly"= I can never remember their name!
"Hello"- Schuyler Fisk

Here's a picture that Elizabeth sent me:
Click here and here for items that we are wearing from Anthropologie. The yellow bee tee that I am wearing is made by Bono's label, Edun. Proceeds from that shirt will go to the funding of reasearching the disappearance of the honey bees. You can't buy it online, but you can come into the store to purchase. It's $58.

Rock n' Roll week

2009-05-05T19:43:00.000-05:00

So I didn't blog about the departure of Matt last week. Very sad, but it will be sad no matter who leaves at this point. Except I wouldn't mind Alison or Adam leaving. So I guess my top 2 are Kris and Danny.

Rock and roll week: Duets!!!

Adam Lambert: I'm so over him!!! But he has amazing pipes!!!
Randy- Rockstar ready to happen
Kara- You're a rock god!
Paula- A Whole lotta perfect!
Simon: Teasing!!! One of his favorite performances. Nobody can top that now.
Me: Once again, I'm over it.

Alison: Cry Baby
Randy: Did not love song choice....didn't love it...wasn't that great
Kara- Janis is the right choice....but different song...You transform when you go on that stage
Paula: Bio pick for Janis Joplin
Simon: Had complete confidence but not originality.
Me: Probably my favorite performance of hers and she gave Simon the verbal bird.

First Duet: Kris and Danny: Loved it!!!

Kris Allen: I should just come clean. This is not an American Idol blog, this is a tribute to Kris Allen. I LOVE him!!!

"Come Together" by the Beatles
Randy: Liked the vocals but loved the guitar
Kara: Def the softer side of rock but not a great performance...trying too hard. DIE BEAST!!!!
Paula: Artistic delivery made it yours
Simon: Didn't like it that much....like eating ice for lunch....Simon you need to find a heart.

Danny "Dream On" by Aerosmith....love this song!
Randy: This is not your genre....just alright....A+ for valiant effort
Kara: Took the swagger a little too far
Paula: blah blah blah
Simon: Last note was like watching a horror movie
Me: I really want him and Kris in the final 2

Alison and Adam's duet: "Slow Ride" Adam was a thunder stealer!!!!

Toni judged me this evening for voting for Kris 26 times. I voted for him one time for every year that I have been alive.

My prediction: Danny is gone even though I want him to stay.
Toni's prediction: Danny

This is a new little segment I would like to call "Constants."
There are so many unpredictable happenings with this show but some things just remain the same.

1. Randy's use of the words Dawg, Hot, that's dope
2. Paula's nonsense comments
3. Simon trying to out rude himself by his comments
4. Toni's comments about Danny...."it always starts out a little bit rough for me but then he turns it around for me in the middle."

I'll be sure to blog the results tomorrow!!!

The Classics from the top FIVE

2009-04-28T20:56:00.000-05:00

Classics from the Rat Pack:

Kris Allen: "Just the way you look tonight." Chills. Multiple chills. Last note.
me to Toni: "That's a hard note to keep."
Toni: "Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh." She held the note to prove it wasn't that hard.
Randy- Best performance to date
Kara- set the technical standard incredibly high
Paula- blah blah blah
Simon- It was all a little bit wet......that's what he said.
Me: Most creative and he always picks the right song.

Alison: "Someone to watch over me."
Randy- That was dope. That was da bomb!
Kara- You're not a one trick pony.
Paula- blah blah blah
Simon- do you think you can win this competition in this stage?
Me: I got bored

Matt Giraud: "My funny valentine."
Randy: Up to the task for me....a little pitchy. Didn't quite come together
Kara: You've got to be the leader...you weren't emotionally connected
Paula: Love what he did with the song...a different side of Matt
Simon: Disagrees with Randy. The only believable authentic, song tonight. Completely brilliant!
Me: I've always have been a fan.

Danny Gokey: "Come Rain or Come Shine." Toni, " Your f-ing crazy." As directed to Jamie Foxx
Randy: You are the only one that I heard so far tonight that could have an album of songs like this and win. This is a singing competition and you can sing!!!
Kara: I've been missing the rat pack swagger and I got it tonight.
Paula: Stellar performance. Toni, " Did she get new teeth?"
Simon: Swagger and a confidence. That was outstanding.
side note- Simon just thanked Jamie Foxx for how he tutored him. What????
Me: LOVEDDDDDD it!!!!

Toni was trying to vote for Danny and she kept getting a busy signal while I would get through every time. She was getting a little frustrated. Finally after the 50th time she got through...."It's about time bliatches!!!"

Adam Lambert: "Feeling Good." "The version that I'm doing has a little bit of a rock edge." Really?
Randy: you are in the zone consistently dude
Kara: Is he really doing that....sleazy, shocking and superb
Paula: You make me feel better than good.
Simon: Best entrance we have had of the year.
Me: I got my stripper dance on. So did Toni in the kitchen.

Sorry.....no pearls of wisdom from Paula tonight.....most of the time all I heard was blah, blah blah. So disappointing.

Bottom 3: Alison, Matt and Adam.....because me and Toni want Adam to be.

Correction

2009-04-22T22:56:00.000-05:00

Not all of my predictions were right.....I guessed Anoop, Danny and Lil to be in the bottom 3....The actual bottom 3 were Lil, Anoop and Alison. 2 out of 3 ain't bad!

And then there were FIVE

2009-04-22T22:10:00.000-05:00

Remember my bottom 3 predictions? Anoop, Lil and Danny. Toni's bottom 3: Lil, Danny and Adam. Who's right? I really do think Anoop and Lil are gone!

Archie is back on the Idol stage.

Surprise, surprise....the Idols are lip syncing to their opening song.....great dance moves though...thanks to Paula! Paula is wearing a very short dress and taking huge steps!!! YIKES!

Lil is out! Too bad so sad! Not!

I totally fast forwarded through the disco medley. Sorry....not interested!

Danny your facial hair plus no glasses is making me hot and bothered. YUM!!!

Awkward moments brought to you by Ryan and Simon. It made Kris very uncomfortable as well as the entire audience.

Anoop in the bottom 3

Alison in the Bottom 3

David Archuleta performs....he's too precious

Anoops chester stache has grown in nicely. And Anoop is gone. Toni is very sad.

My predictions were right! I know this show all too well!

Well, I'm off to catch up on this week's One Tree Hill and 90210. I live for teenage drama!!!!

Idol Top 7....part deux

2009-04-21T20:57:00.000-05:00

Lil Rounds- "I'm Everyone Woman" Girl you need to tell us who you are. Paula made excuses for her being sick. But Lil wanted the judges to know that she axtually had fun.....Simon says farewell. (I asked Toni how she would spell Axtually and she said "A-c-h-t-w-a-l-l-y."

Kris Allen- LOVE HIM!!!!!!!!!!! "She Works Hard for the Money." I sing this song on a daily basis!!! Chingles immediately!! Kara- The risk paid off big time! Gotta give you props. Simon could care less if he bought ladies underwear. You're ready for the big time dawg!!! (All the while Simon and Paula have a high school teen love banter)

Danny Gokey "September": Toni says bottom 3- She says that he does this every week. Starts out week and then picks it up. ....oh, he dropped it again. This week I have to agree. I'm not really feelin it this week. Randy- Check it...turned it into something that really worked for you tonight. You worked it out baby! Kara- was worried. An incredible vocalist...pitch is right on. Another solid performance for Danny. Paula- Always take it up one step higher. One of the sexiest voices ever. Simon- Performance- no star power. Needs to do something special.

Alison- "Looking for the Hot stuff"- Holy Leather and Sparkles!!! I'm tired of Alison. I'm bored. Toni is texting and I am wondering if I would like more chips and salsa. Randy- Over indulgent- one of the best singers in the competition. Always proves his point....what was his point? Kara- picked the right song....but the slow tempo hurt her. Simon- Always coming into the week as the underdog....brilliant performance.

Adam Lambert- "If I Can't Have You."- I thought this was an Alicia Keyes song? You look pretty decent all cleaned up. We're bored. But the boy can sing. Toni: "Worst song choice ever!" Paula gave a standing standing. That's what it's called when you don't clap. Randy- You are ready right now! Kara- Brilliant. Paula- felt his pain. Simon- didn't quite feel the pain. Love it because it was original. You're going to remember this performance. Ryan said that he "melted Paula into a pool of Abdul." Goo!

Matt- "Staying Alive"- JT relived...I like this a lot better than Adam's performance. Love his high notes!!! Randy- didn't love the song choice or arrangement but you can really sing dude! Kara- You brought disco back, vocals were pretty good, solid performance, Paula- You saved your own life...you're staying, Simon- Damper....I didn't like the performance.

Anoop- Toni: "Mmmmmmmmmm!" "Dim all the lights." Toni digs his the chester stache. And a lot of inappropriate remarks to follow. Didn't love it- Randy- rough last note, didn't love arrangement, dude...you can sing also. Nice baby nice!!! Kara- great song choice. Liked the beat...could be on the radio. Simon- Mediocre. One of his worst performances.

Rewinds: Lil's mother bad mouthing Simon....We think she's saying"Eff you Cowell." Danny's hot sisters, Alison rubbing her 16 year old body against Ryan and then licking her teeth afterwards, Paula's eyes glistening as Adam sings, Ryan and Adam standing side by side. Toni: "His hair is 14 times bigger than Ryan!!!", Lady shrieking when Simon dissed Matt, Kara getting pissed at Simon for dissing Anoop.

Paula's Pearls of Wisdom:
Paula to Kris: There's alot women that are willing to shop in the men's department, but not a lot of men willing to shop in the womens department. You shopped and it showed a perfect fit. (Simon needs a translator for the show.....as do I when Paula speaks.)

Paula to Alison- The word compromise does not even belong in your musical vocabulary.....blah, blah blah, authenticity.

Paula to Matt- You pick songs like I bowl. Sometimes you throw gutter balls and sometimes you throw strikes. This was a Strike!

Paula to Anoop: Real men know how to wear pink! Smile more! You have beautiful teeth!

Overused words: Over-indulgent, Dawg, Baby, Dude, authenticity

Bottom Three:

Kiki: Lil, Danny and Anoop

Toni: Lil, Danny and Adam

So jealous

2009-04-21T18:35:00.001-05:00

So jealous

This would be my dream come true!!!!

Posted using ShareThis

Taco Heaven

2009-04-18T23:25:00.000-05:00

Oh what a productive Saturday! I got up this morning, took the dogs out, put my eyes in and then headed to the church to help clean. I was a little late...sorry Brad! I suck at life sometimes. After cleaning, my roomie Toni (just in case you didn't know) asked if I was hungry. My usual answer: "I can eat." Toni said that she was craving an authentic Mexican burrito. I suggested Taco Bueno. VETOED!!! She wanted a burrito like the ones we would get at Ramirez or Alberto's up in Idaho. Shout to BYU-I and late night burrito runs!!! So we decided to head up to Business 121. There had to be some taco shack of some sorts along that road. We turned right and then saw a red sign that read "TACO." It was attached to a gas station. We ventured in and found that among the hand written menu it was very cheap. 2 burritos for the ladies. This was probably the best people watching place ever. Even better than Sneaky Pete's. Good thing we were in sweats and grubby from cleaning the church. We fit right in!

I went to go purchase some beverages for Toni and I. The cashier was really friendly and was trying to sell me on the already purchased burritos that we ordered. I think his wife must have been the cook. Among others that we observed was a black family that consisted of a grandma, mom and son. The son was very obese and the mom wouldn't let him get fries. So he walked across the parking lot to Taco Bell. As he did so, she yelled at him to get her a coke. We overheard them talking and they were driving through to Wichita. Wichita Falls or Wichita, KS we didn't know. But what we do know is they were told by the grandma that they had to use the bathroom now because they were going to drive straight through. All the while that this was going on there were other people to watch.

Toni and I dubbed this Saturday morning as "Best Saturday morning ever!" The burritos were amazing!!! We are definitely coming back!!! Here is a picture or two of what we ate!

The black plastic bag is what our drinks came in...shady or not?

A little piece of heaven wrapped up in a tortilla

The Results

2009-04-15T23:07:00.000-05:00

Prediction before the show: Toni felt like they were going to use the save tonight.....
My predictions were Alison, Matt and Lil in the bottom 3.

First person in the bottom 3: Anoop- Toni: "What? His number was busy the entire f-ing night!!! Lying. All Liars!!!"

Second person in the bottom 3: Lil Rounds- No surprise there. Toni:"She's gone."

Third person in the bottom 3: Matt- Toni:"Paula and Matt should have their moles removed together."

2 out of 3 right- Anoop heads back to the couches.....I'm already predicting....Lil is out....Toni agrees.

Lil is safe so Matt sings for his life!! I hope he gets saved!

Miley Cyrus performance: Toni: "I can't understand an f-ing word your saying!" Very angrily. Loved her dress....wow, I sound like Paula.

P.S. we had several rewinds tonight: 3 boob rewinds (Paula, Lil and Miley), Paula's awkward arm gestures to Matt, Miley's hair flip fade into forgotten head bow, crazy "I heart Matt" poster lady and many others!!!

Judges decision: The judges used their save!!!!!!!!! I'm so happy!!!! But that means two have to go next week! How will I survive? Will I buckle under pressure?

American Idol Top 7

2009-04-14T23:07:00.000-05:00

Tuesday nights are seriously one of my favorite nights because of American Idol. We are now left with 7 contestants. I was going to blog about it last week but I fell asleep with my laptop open on my chest. Boo Radly.

Instead of recapping the entire evening I just want to share my top 10 moments, deep thoughts from Paula and my predictions for bottom 3.

Top 10

10. Paula's Bedazzled top. Really Paula? With all of your money you decide to wear something that looks like something my 11 year old niece bedazzled last week? Gross.

9. Paula comparing Alison to Adam saying they had the same special sauce- authenticity. Great moment here: Simon making a joke about the "special sauce" being BBQ sauce. Cue the crickets.

8. Deciding what gave me the chingles (chills + tingles): a) Anoop performing "Everything I do, I do it for you" or b) Toni saying he was the best looking Indian? Dot not feather.

7. Anoop claiming his singlehood....making Toni giddy for the rest of the night!

6. Adam's performance of "Born to be wild." Yikes! What was with the gasps of vocal air?

5. Simon comparing Adam's performance to the "Rocky Horror Picture Show." (my thoughts exactly)

4. The phrase "VOCAL CHOPS" is being overused this season. Mainly by Kara

3. Danny- you look FINE without the glasses!!!

2. Simon rolling his eyes at Paula's comments directed to Danny.

1. Kara saying that Kris' performance was one of the best of the evening....and my personal favorite!! I'm downloading it tonight!

Bottom 3- Alison, Matt and Lil.

This is a segment I would like to call "Paula's Pearls." Paula wows us over and over again with great introspective comments to the contestants. Here are a few from this evenings show:

To Alison: "Alison you have the same special sauce as Adam- authenticity."

To Adam: "Dare to dance in the path of greatness."

To Adam again: "Fortune rewards the brave and your the bravest contestant I have ever witnessed. Ever!"

To Lil: "Sometimes the road is really long but it is a road worthwhile taken especially when your this far."

To Lil: "Those who matter don't mind."

Toni thinks that Paula will be releasing a quote book later this year. She may have some copyright issues though.....

Stay tuned for tomorrow's show that will feature Jennifer Hudson and Miley Cyrus and of course the elimination of one more contestant.

Bragalicious

2009-04-14T00:43:00.001-05:00

My dear friend Whitney (also my co-worker at Anthro) gave me the nickname Bragalicious. I'm not going to protest it because I'm about to brag about something else. Remember my last blog entitled "Who will I meet next?" Well, here is the answer: Lacey Chabert from "Party of Five" and "Mean Girls."

She was in my store today just shopping for something fun. My sweet little Colette (from work) was kind of star struck. Since this is my 3rd celebrity encounter in less than a week, I of course, kept my cool! There it is: BRAGALICIOUS!!!! Jealous? To view some of the items she bought click here and here.

Who will I meet next?

2009-04-11T00:23:00.000-05:00

Well, today was an interesting day at work. Most of you know that I work at Anthropologie as an Operations Manager. I was minding my own business, running the floor, and I go to greet an older lady who has a jacket in her hand. She looked kind of familiar to me. I talked to her for a few minutes. She said that she was looking for something for her daughter that was a teacher in Austin. She needed something with long sleeves to cover up a tattoo. This is how our conversation went:
Me: "You look a lot like an actress off of a tv show that I watch, "Friday Night Lights."

Customer: "Because I am."

She plays the grandma off of "Friday Night Lights." Her name is Louanne Stephenson. We had such a great conversation about her being on the show and about some of the other actors on the show. I told her how much I enjoyed watching the show and how great it was. I was very sincere in my compliments because it is one of my favorite shows that I look forward to each week. She was so sweet and she ended up buying the pants that I suggested to go with the jacket. (click here to see the outfit I picked out for her) I felt like I had made a new friend. When I rung her up I asked her how long she had been acting. She said that she had just started 20 years before. She was probably in her late 60s or early 70s. I told her that I loved playing the guitar and singing. I told her that sometimes I felt that I was too old to start a career in music because it seems nowadays you have to start show business from infancy. She said that acting was a hobby that she liked and finally decided to pursue it. She told me to never let age get in the way of anything and to just do it! She promised to come back and visit me and left me with a hug. Louanne, you are really something.

This evening, the cast of "Friday Night Lights" wrapped up season 3 with their season finale. Louanne was able to tell me that they had signed on with NBC to do 2 more seasons. That made my night! Thank you Louanne for spending the evening shopping at Anthropologie at The Shops at Willowbend!

Gavin DeGraw at Pallidium

2009-04-10T01:59:00.000-05:00

So me and two of my galpals, Kristi and Angie went to go see Gavin DeGraw this evening. We started the evening out at Jason's Deli and then made the trek down to DT Dallas to the Palladium Ballroom where Gavin was playing. We got there and and a stretch limo was blocking the entrance. A middle-aged couple (who thought they were 25) got out and had the driver take pictures of them in front of the venue and then they took pictures of the Limo. LAME!!! Of course my impatient and classy self honked at them. We finally made our way to the parking lot and headed for the doors. First, we needed to take a picture in front of the Marquee. Who to ask to take a picture of us three? Well, the middle aged couple of course!! So thus the picture taking begins.

We entered the venue and found the merchandise table. I usually don't like to buy merchandise from a main stream artist. (Yes, Gavin is a little too main stream for me.) Plus, we're in a recession and I need to watch my spending. Well, Miss Kristi wants a t-shirt so she gets one. $30 for a t-shirt. Another reason I don't buy main stream artist's merchandise. Nobody's only charge $15 and they usually look cooler and are made on American Apparel t-shirts. The merchandise guy hands Kristi her shirt and a blue wrist band.

Me:"What's that for?"

Kristi: "I don't know."

Me: "Ask him."

Kristi: "Sir, what's this used for?"

Merchandise guy:"To get in to meet Gavin."

I head immediately to the nearby ATM and get some cash out because I want to meet him too. I picked out a grey t-shirt. I had to buy an XL. It seriously looks like it could fit a 10-year old. I was kind of nervous that it wouldn't fit, but oh well! I was on my way to meet Gavin!!! And on a side note: what a smart way to make some extra money!!! I wasn't going to buy, but the incentive of meeting Gavin made me want to buy. Hats of to you Team Gavin!

The Opening Act:
Angel Taylor. She's a black girl that has tendancies of a white girl. She was wearing an Anthropologie top....on sale right now....and sitting at the keyboard. She had blunt cut bangs. Her voice was a cross between Duffy, Adele and a little bit of Ingrid Michealson all wrapped up together. Not a bad combination. She even did a cover of Adele's "Hometown Glory." She did very well!! You Should definitely check her out! http://www.angeltayloronline.com/

Gavin DeGraw:

So the main act came on stage and we had situated ourselves not too far from the stage and near a bathroom. There was a guy in front of us that was with a couple of girls. I don't know which girl he was with. He kept talking closely with both of them so it kind of threw me off. I wonder if he's one of those guys who have a million girl friends and is like that with every one of them? Anywho, I have to hand it to Clark. He knew Gavin's lyrics better than me, Angie and Kristi combined. He also had is cell phone up at all times to either take a picture, record a song or call a friend and let them listen. Nonetheless, I got a picture with Clark after the show. I think would be great real life friends. This ones for you Clark!
Back to the show!!! Gavin had a wonderful band that consisted of a drummer, guitarist (acoustic and electric) and a bass guitarist. They had so much energy and were just in sync with one another. You could tell that they always had a good time together and were good friends. During a lot of the songs they went off in tangents and it sounded like a good jam session! They played songs from all of his albums. "Chariot" was amazing!!! I think one of the best performances of the night was "I'm In Love with a Girl." Boy does he have some talent!!! And serious vocals! He wasn't shy about releasing those vocals and getting comfortable with the crowd! After they played for about 90 minutes they ended and we cheered and they came back out for their encore. They played "More Than Anyone." This song always reminds me of One Tree Hill when Hayley and Nathan get married (for the 2nd time) and they dance to it at their wedding. Yes, my guilty pleasure is watching high school tv shows. Jealous? I just love how Gavin somehow combines all elements of soul, blues, jazz and rock to his music. I also love how he recognizes it in other artists in their sounds and incoprates it into his own music.

The meet and greet:

So our location was perfect because we were very near to the meet and greet line. Gavin left for a moment to shower. Thank you....he had a very bad case of pit taco. In line we made friends with several people. We made friends with a lovley couple that just moved from Chicago. We got to talking with them about the Windy city....which my roomie just informed me that it's called the Windy City for the long-winded politicians. Imagine that?!? Anyhooters.....I think the guy from the Chicago couple thought I was funny. After a show I feel like an old woman because I've been standing in the same place for 3+ hours. Thus, I need to do some stretches. Some involve stretching out my gluteous maximus. That's just the way it is. He kept laughing at me. We talked the entire time and they took pictures of us in line. We also made friends with the young girls in front us. Until one of them called ma ma'am. Rude! Nothing like being called ma'am at the age of 26. Her name was Julia and she was adorable. I also recognized the guitar player for Angel Taylor. I went over to him and asked him if he played for any other artists and he said he plays for a lot of artist for the Hotel Cafe. I was so right!!! I have seen him play several times!!! I feel really bad that I didn't remember his name though. It's either Jeff or Jason. Either way he is very talented. He's played with my favorite artist....Joshua Radin. I got a picture with him but I need to get it from Kristi and I will post it later! We also got a picture with the adorable guitar player. He's only 21 and he is sooooo talented! And now, we meet Gavin. This part is so rushed because he had so many fans to meet. He introduced himself to us....like we didn't know. I debated on him signing my t-shirt or the post card they gave us while we were in line. I went with the post card because i wanted to wear my t-shirt....If I could squeeze my fat ace into it!! Gavin is vey nice and humble. He seemed very grateful that we would take time out to come and see his show and stay after to meet him. I LOVE YOU GAVIN!!! Here's our picture! If you notice...I have to be on my "good" side in every picture. My sisters know all about this and how important it is to me. I said to Jeff or Jason that I had a good side and he said, "just like Mariah Carey." I'm not the only vain person out there. So there it is ladies and gentlemen. My 2nd post in over a year and top notch night with my ladies and Gavin and new friends! To top it off, I'm wearing my new t-shirt as it is tradition to wear it to bed after a concert. My other tradition is to get a Sprite at McDonalds after a show. Got one and guzzled it down. I'm so ghetto sometimes! Hopefully I'll keep the blogging up so stay tuned!!

-kate

2008-04-01T19:15:00.000-05:00

Three years ago, I stumbled across this unknown artist, Joshua Radin. The first song of his that I ever heard was "Someone Else's Life." After just one verse I was hooked!. Last April I had the great opportunity to see him live at Club Dada in Dallas. What an amazing show! Schuyler Fisk opened up for him and they sang together as well.
I have been anticipating his new album to come out for so long! He released three new songs from the new album on iTunes and they are phenomenal! One features a great artist, Ingrid Michaelson. You might know her by her "roagine" song.
On March 14th, Josh rolled back into Dallas, bringing along 4 other amazing acts from the Hotel Cafe Tour: Cary Brothers (founder of the tour), Sara Bareilles, Greg Laswell and Ingrid Michaelson. They played at the House of Blues. What a great venue!!! It was an amazing show and I was blown away at the incredible talent that these musicians had! At the end of the show I got to meet my favorite, Josh. I totally cut in front of about 40 girls. I always dreamed that when I met him, I would be so cool and act like it was not a big deal. Yeah right! I was totally star struck. I felt like such a little girl! He was so sweet and friendly. I told him that I had already seen him and he seemed really touched that I came back. I noticed when he was taking pictures with other people, he was not showing his teeth when he smiled. So as he put his arm around me to pose for the picture I told him to show some teeth. He started cracking up!! Me, a giddy, girly fan got him to laugh.
On the ride home, I annoyed my friends, Toni, Lauren, Cherie and Amber to death. I had the biggest adrenaline rush of my life....the only kind I get from seeing live bands. Here are some pictures from the night!