Spontaneous Chatter-

Ouch, that really hurts.

2009-03-12T19:29:00.000-07:00

Generally, when I cry out the expression of "ouch", I'm reflecting on physical pain. Like, "OUCH! Did I really just super glue my eye lids shut!?"

[[[Well, I say ouch.]]]

Yes, ouch. Not so much to a physical ailment, but to an emotional one. Life is going to hurt once in awhile. You deal with it, and move on.

But what happens when the wounds dwelling within your soul does more than just damage your feelings?

But it:

Demolishes your reputation, which you’ve worked so extraordinarily hard to keep clean.

Ends friendships, which once promised to be life-long.

Has people questioning your character, integrity, and how you live your life.

Is the last thing you think about as you cry yourself to sleep.

And is the first thing you think about when you wake up the next day.

Has people second-guessing your consistency of your faith.

Habitually having people give you judging stares.

Leads to life-long scars. Scars that will never go away.

Wastes your time. Time- that composes your life, wasting away because you’re too busy defusing rumors and crying in your Daddy’s arms.

This all may make no sense to you. But if your ears have been open in the past six months, you’ve heard questionable, sketchy, far-stretched ideas, thoughts, jokes, rumors…lies. So whatever you’ve heard, I can almost promise you that it’s not true. It’s painful. It’s damaging. It’s wicked. And it’s not ok.

My prayer is that you would seek me out to verify what you hear, and not assume it’s true. And that you would recognize my cry, and discontinue rumors, that simply- are not true.

Let's Face It...

2009-02-24T18:08:00.000-08:00

I don't blog anymore.

And I've come to accept it.

And on the random occasion that I do blog, well, they suck.

So for now, this is my last blog, well, probably for a while...not that any of you actually care!

I'm stuck!...

2008-11-01T13:23:00.000-07:00

In the mountains!- far far away from connection with the human world!!!
Email me! I'm bored!! Please! I beg you!!! For my sanity's sake!

goodbye opportunity to be a pro knee model...

2008-10-30T21:14:00.001-07:00

The story goes a lil something like this....

Setting: the styffe family kitchen, Halloween eve of the eve, midnight.

Antagonist: hot glue gun

Protagonist: well me, duh.

long story short:

burnt my knee. It's a 2nd degree burn with a whole bunch of unattractive blisters. I have legit looking bandages all over though. That's a plus? But now, my only dream for life, is gone! I can't be a knee model.

homecoming '08- don't hate

2008-10-26T15:35:00.000-07:00

just plain bizarre.

peek-a-boo

all the girlies

erica's face is priceless

i love my sisters

ladies... see we tried to be all creative and coordinate our dates behind us- it didn't work out that well...

gentlemen

the groupies. actually- some are missing... but you get the point

Scandalous jump..... word of advice, don't jump up in a strapless, short dress...

josh- you're great.

Tobin, you were late... and left Rachel dateless- an outcast. way to go. :)

High School Musical status. oh yes.

The Time Will Come...

2008-10-16T16:50:00.000-07:00

I tell you people that I will blog more often, and that miss. erica will assist me... the time will come... i promise.... just not right now.... until then, here's somethings you've missed out on in my life:

1. I auditioned for a musical at my school- i can't dance... no, that's an understatement. I DO NOT DANCE! I SUCK AT IT! and because of it- I have just gorgeous bruses on my legs... beautiful.

2. I squashed a spider today in the girls bathroom at my school. I'm a hero- it's true

3. My parentals are speaking at a marriage retreat so danny sells is staying with us! :)

4. awkward behind the wheel training... 2 hours of driving in silence with a random stranger... oh trust me, I tried to have small talk... he just had no social skills. lovely.

5. I've been talking an awful lot to a certain mr. zachariah zeiger... ;)

6. I drank a gallon of water in between services this past weekend at Church when I was singing.

7. I'm an evil stepsister in Cinderella in drama, and lil kids are gunna come and see our show next week!

I think thats about it. taaaa daaa!

oh just wait! This is for realzzzies

2008-10-06T21:09:00.000-07:00

In a short while (((aka whenever I get around to it)))

I'm going to unleash the new and improved blog of rachel styffe.The twist? My partner in crime- erica- is going to be my coauthor

in this blog. erica, my 5 year old sister from Rwanda is gunna give you

the inside scoop on africa, life as a kindergartner, and how much it sucks having me as a big sister.

oh you know you wanna hear what this young one has to say!

just wait.

let's face It... i'm a heart breaker

2008-10-05T09:45:00.000-07:00

Gentleman #1:

-Homecoming, Rachel?

-ehh not so much.

Gentleman #2:

-Rachel, go to homecoming with me?

-Sorry, I've already been asked!

Gentleman #3

-Hey Rachel! What are your plans for homecoming?

-Uhhh I'm busy.

Gentleman#4

-Rachel, will you go to homecoming with me?

-yes! I'll go with you mister josh miller.

I'm a heart breaker. Is it really mean to say no to 3 guys before finally deciding- what the heck- just go? I'm definitely excited to go to trabuco's homecoming!

do i dare...

2008-09-16T19:08:00.001-07:00

enter the dangerous, nit-picky, damaging world of modeling?

should i give it a shot? use what God gave me?

and by being there, hopefully attract people to Christ?

i have an audition tomorrow for a modeling and acting agency....

do i dare...?

i might as well be a nun...

2008-09-13T23:01:00.000-07:00

me + boys that are friends = disasters.

sign me up.

i'm your next nun.

a tribute to the most amazing ABS EVERRRR!!

2008-09-07T12:24:00.001-07:00

how i love all of you... and no matter what happens to our group this next year... I LOVE YOU!!!! oh and thank you soooooo much Jess! You're amazing! Much love!

The Adventures of Styffe and Welcome!

2008-09-06T08:49:00.000-07:00

Oooo baby clothes!!
... no comment....haha
those are friggin awesome puppets we found!
Hungry Caterpillar anyone!?
.... I don't know what I was thinking... haha
Lil MR. Sunshine!
Taylor Shanton as a lil kid! Haha
Oh yes.
I've always wanted to be a ballarina!!!!
A SOCK MONKEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kisses!!!
legit old fashioned phone!
Cuties!
Weird leafy thingy on my head.....
Oh you better believed I pushed Erin around in a cart all day!
I love you ERIN WELCOME!!!!
oh very attractive miss welcome!

My New Years Resolution.... yup in the middle of the summer... better believe it.

2008-08-29T10:14:00.001-07:00

so i have a new years resolution... in the end of August. uh huh. I'm gunna really try to blog more... and when i do... make them more meaningful and "artsy?" anyways... and i'm pondering whether or not I should finally give in and make a myspace... any thoughts?

Ya I suck at blogging- and I barely do it. sorry.

2008-08-24T17:56:00.001-07:00

Sorry- blogging is a waste of time. Haha Top 10 most interesting things that have happened recently. Here I go:

1. My puppy, Scout, got ran over by a car yesterday and died.... yes this is very tragic...
2. My Grandpa's 2002 Red Mercury Cougar that has 22,000 miles on it is gunna me MINE!
3. I made a princess cake that is totally legit and super cute for Cynthia's 9th birthday
4. Both Noah and Cynthia had their first birthday celebrated! A Birthday Party and all! Super cute and fun!
5. I went to Palm Springs! VERY fun! Super HOT!
6. ERIN WELCOME IS BACK IN CALIFORNIA!!!!!!!!!!
7. I get my permit in a week!!! Classes start tomorrow!!!!
8. I just went shopping for new school clothes!!!
9. My phone broke and I got a new one for free! But its like ugly royal blue :/
10. School stats way too soon and I'm not happy.

Ugh- not again!

2008-08-09T17:01:00.000-07:00

My phone broke again...
what a surprise....
Thank God for phone insurance!
.... I'll get a knew one... eventually!

FOREST HOME!

2008-07-23T12:34:00.001-07:00

PICTURES! I TOLD YOU I WOULD POST SOME!!!!

Our lil cabin...... it was actually really nice...... like the nicest cabin I've ever stayed in..... and I've been coming to Forest Home before I was born. Legit.

Ya that bed Cynthia is sitting on...... it was suppose to be mine. it was legit. but then i get the bunk bed that is meant for a 6 year old.... like it wasn't even a normal size.... I would lay down and from my knees down hung off the bed. it was awesome. But I stole it back the next night! sisterly love right there!

brother to brother time
Their first Merry- Go-Round ride!
Their First Pony Ride!

Stephen didn't want to go because he is a cool cat- but he did it anyways to show our brother and sisters how cool pony riding is!

I can't help but laugh at NOAH's (oh ya that's his name now) sunglasses!

my sisters and I by this gorgeous creek This picture was totally not posed... an action shot! This one was kinda- but I didn't know about it.
LOTS OF PIGGY BACK RIDES! LIKE TONS! EVERYWHERE!
Oh how cute! Nathan saw this picture and said it looked like our family was some type of charity. I personally think this picture is sweet.... whatever Nathan. haha

The Lake!!
What a stud!
Ok see those two people in the kayaks? That's me and my Dad.... breaking our necks while we look at Noah literally fly through the air off the blob! See that lil dot up in the top right hand corner!? That's Noah! Haha I wish we had a picture of how I made Cynthia soar! Haha! AMAZING!
One pieces + life Jackets = awesome....
Mama and Erica

Our attempt at ping-pong....... oh boy.

See piggy back rides EVERYWHERE!

A very fun family getaway!

FOREST HOME!

2008-07-21T21:27:00.001-07:00

Pictures to come.... I PROMISE.... eventually.....

AHH! I'M GOING CRAZY!

2008-07-14T18:54:00.000-07:00

Ok so I'm up in Forest Home- the most A-M-A-Z-I-N-G place EVER! Normally I would be having a total blast- and I am... sorta except I have no cell coverage :( I'm going through withdraws!!! And my the biggest pain ever: my grandpa passing away.... so we have to go down the mountain Tuesday thru Wednesday to go be with family and have a viewing.... the funeral will be next week.... either way it's tragic. And just a big downer on our family fun! But we're still having a blast! Tons of memories! And pictures! I have Internet access so blog or email me!!! I'm so bummed I can't text or call! Miss you!

"good news and bad news. which one first?"

2008-07-13T10:20:00.001-07:00

that's how my morning started... it's only gone down hill from there....
bad news: My grandpa (my Mom's Dad) passed away....
good news: He is with Jesus and no longer in pain.....
please pray for my family.... especially my mom and her brothers and sister.

I love you Grandpa. Praise God! Next time I see you, we will both be kissing Jesus's feet!

ya, ya, it's been like a month. sorry.

2008-07-09T16:03:00.001-07:00

it's been a over a month since I last blogged... AND BOY HAVE THINGS CHANGED! It's been 32 days since I last blogged so I'm gunna write 32 updates on my life... pictures to come... maybe.....

1. I'm working for my mama this summer. Good ol' receptionist for the HIV/AIDS initiative.

2. We took my family to go see Wall-e. This was the kids first movie theater experience- it was awful.

3. I discovered I love to make pizza

4. Michael and broke up.... yes this is very big. and I'm very sad. Almost 9 months... he might kill me when he sees that I blogged about it.

5. Michael graduated!! He' s in collage! I went to his graduation with his family- loads of fun!

6. Erica, Cynthia, Jado, my Mama, and I went to the zoo- this was the kids first visit to an american zoo!

7. The kids picked middle names! Erica Joy Styffe, Cynthia Elizabeth, and Jado ?.... that's still being decided.

8. I went out to a really fancy restaurant with Michael, his Dad, and step Mom..... VERY fun!

9. My whole small group went to the beach and had a blast with a bomb fire, the whole hot dogs and smores things! Took tons of pictures! And did affirmations for every girl! Aka cry fest!

10. We had another social worker come to our house to do a post adoption home study.

11. Ever since Michael and I broke up- 2 days ago. Six different guys have been texting and calling me.... Rachel's single again.... and not so ready to mingle (yet)

12. Some of my parent's friends are throwing us an adoption shower!

13. My small group leader -Jess and I got ice cream and had a girls date.

14. I'm getting paid this summer to scrapbook trips Kay and my Mom have made over seas

15. I can't go to PDYM!! :( I'll be in Forest Home cause my parentals are the nurses.... so a sorta family vacation/ serving experience!

16. My Mom and I have had many shopping excursions!! SHOP SHOP SHOP!

17. I miss Erin Welcome with a passion! She is in Tennessee with her sweet mama!@

18. I'm sorta getting sick of so many guys bugging me- well except one.... i don't mind him....

19. I'm not planning on dating anytime soon.

20. Stephen turned 12!!!!

21. I'm a sophomore!! YA? It doesn't seem any different!

22. THE REFINERY OPENED!!! YA!

23. I went to a Worship Conference at Church... it was a blast and I learned at TON!!!

24. I'm in a HSM band again this year! YA! My band's name is Mr. Manipulative and the Baby Brigade!

25. I got the most adorable dress at the Daisy Shoppe!! My lil sisters asked if it was a shirt :/

26. The Kids are learning sooooooo much English! CRAZY!

27. I don't miss school what so ever!!!!!!

28. Nothing really else has happened....

29. I went to San Diego with my family, Uncle and cousins! Deep Sea Fishing!! Nathan caught a 30 pound yellowtail!!!

30. We ate fish for a week afterwards!

31. I'm working on another scrapbook....my dad just handed me the pictures I ordered. :)

32. Summer is just beginning and I'm excited to start a new, single, refreshed! Can't wait!

PROM!!! FINALLY!!!!!!!

2008-06-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

Prom was officially AMAZING! Here are some of the pictures- but not all (like pictures of our whole group- cause my camera died! :( but when I get them- I'll be sure to post them!)

Me and my Hunk Man! Aren't we gorgeous!

Aw. Dazing into his eyes. Haha
Yikes! I "accidentally" poked him! Sorry babe!
My lovely fans! They've been asking everyday for the past month when "Michael and Rachel Dancing"....translation: Rachel? When are you going to prom with Michael?" haha

Half these pictures Erica or Jado took! Nathan watch out- we have some more photographers in the family!
I can't wait for Cynthia's prom!

According to Michael this is my "croissant" Haha
Aww cute pictures!

I'm sorry! Is it just me? Are we not stunning- especially me! I think we look good together!

Me- We have a few hundred of theses. but I think it's awkward to post them. haha
Michael- I love this pose. Haha you look like a male model!
Are you getting tired of this pose?

Lauren and I! Seriously! You're gorgeous! I had such a BLAST with you girly!Lauren, Adam, Michael and Me!
Grr!- nuff said.
This is probably my favorite picture! ;)

Us gorgeous girls!

Erica loves Michael... I do too!!! :)

Handsome Nick and Michael!
I love you Erica!
Sassy girls!
Piggy Back Rides!!!!
Aw look at us!

I love you bubba!

Nick and his date, Lauren and Adam, and Michael and I!!!!
(Maybe I'm just biased, but I think Michael and I are the cutest couple!)
The Boys!
Nick and Michael... being Nick and Michael!!!! Prom was AMAZING!!!

So gorgeous!!!!

I promise to post the pictures of the other 20 people in our random group!!! But my camera died... so when I get some you'll see who made this day so fun!!!!! So many stories and memories!! It was soooooooooo much better than I could ever imagine it to be!! Thank you Michael for being such a gentleman! And treating me like a princess!!

AIDS WALK!

2008-05-17T14:53:00.001-07:00

hanks to everyone who went! It was a complete blast! Oh so much fun! Here are just a few of the bizarre pictures that I didn't take :) thanks Bree and Maddie- these pictures are funny? haha love you all!

I'M GOING TO PROM!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-15T17:16:00.000-07:00

AHHH! Not many freshies are asked to prom by their senior boyfriends- oh except me!!! :D haha last week I got asked to prom in the most precious and fun way! Starting out the day at school with my beloved Michael and he gave me a note that was a hint to what was to be expected for the rest of the day. Through out the day he gave me clues hinting how he was gunna ask me to prom. He would give me clues in between classes and hide them in my locker- it was truly cute. :D I got home- eating everything in my fridge and watching Cinderella with my lil sibs when Michael calls me and tells me to come outside. I get really suspicious and all of the sudden my whole family starts walking towards the door with me.... and I'm like "hello!? like give me a sec? Why are you all coming with me." without a response we walk outside and Michael grabs my hand and starts leading me down the street.... with my fam following behind. Awkward? Michael takes me to a park where a turtle pinata was hanging in a tree..... (fyi turtles are my favorite animal and our prom's theme is a Mexican Fiesta.... how thoughtful is he!?) and of course since my lil bros and sisters have never seen a pinata we let them whack at it- it's my turn and I bust it open. All my favorite candy comes flying out! wrapped around a Hersey's Cookies n' cream bar (my favy) was a note that said "Don't break my heart- go to prom with me!" So fun! At first I thought it was weird that my family was with me- but it was sooooo much more fun with them there! Michael youre the cutest! I can't wait to go! My dress is stunning! (if you've seen it or heard anything about it- DON'T TELL HIM!!!! It's a surprise!)

I'll admit....

2008-05-05T20:49:00.000-07:00

these past few weeks have probably been the hardest, most joyful, confusing, frustrating, entertaining, and crazy weeks of my life. It isn't easy. It isn't easy. It isn't easy. As my mom says "if [adoption] was easy everyone would do it."- There have been dozens of times daily that I've wanted to {{{pull my hair out, scream, throw a fit, melt down and cry, yell until I couldn't talk.}}} **But at the same time I've laughed until I got a 6 pack and smiled til my cheeks hurt.** Pray that God would give me tons of MORE patience, long suffering, and self control!!! The kids are great- better than I am. Discouraged. Frustrated. Hurt. Angry. Tired. Exhausted. Annoyed. Impatient. Selfish. Explosive. Some days are better than others- this happens to be a better day. haha.

Numbers. Just Numbers.

2008-04-30T17:27:00.000-07:00

12 eggs every breakfast (for 3 egg-loving children, Not including the other 6 people in the house hold) X 356 = 4272 eggs per year.
5 trips to the Elementary/High School per day X 180 school days =900 trips per school year
3 trips to the Grocery Store/week X $$$ = $$$$$$$$$$ per year! YIKES!
1 shower, 1 toilet, 2 sinks for 7 children- getting ready at the same time... nuff said.
3 loads of laundry and 3 dish washer runs (generously done by my mom) X 365 = 1096
6 bath towels flung around my house everyday- 6 towels I get to pick up....
3 meals (generously made by my mother)X 365 = 1096 meals/year
3 hot fudge sundaes and 2 large fries from McDonalds- practically everyday
Loads of rice, egg shells, and melted Popsicle mess stuck to our kitchen floor after every meal.

This is just the beginning of our life in numbers.

The Newly Completed Styffe Family Pictures!

2008-04-21T17:17:00.001-07:00

Finally- all together, one happy family!

Just us kids
The whole gang- the funny thing is- it feels so normal and natural. My family doesn't feel big to me at all!
Pyramid- Styffe Style!
I love this picture!
I have no regrets what so ever- and looking forward to the life long journey ahead.

FINALLY! PRAISE JESUS! INTRODUCING!....

2008-04-14T14:08:00.000-07:00

JADO! (age 10) CYNTHIA (age 8) and ERICA (age 5)!!!!!!!! To the STYFFE FAMILY!!!!!

Crazy how God works! My parents and new brother sisters arrived home on Saturday- here is a brief glimpse at of what my life has been like! CRAZY STUFF but Soooooooo much fun! Continue to pray- its defiantly not easy. :D

At the Airport!

that's not THAT big of a family... only 9 people... no biggie!

with my precious sisters!, who I adore!

Oh ya! None of our cars can fit all of my family anymore! :(haha Go Saddleback Chuch Shuttles!
Showing them their rooms.... discovering everything!
Lets wake up Rachel at 5 in the morning and play barbies!!!!! YAAA!!!!!

Going on a walk up the hill....

Swinging on the neighbor's swing set!

Music Time! They love the harp! Jado can play "god is so good" on the harp!

Cynthia

Erica

Jado
Alli, Nathan, and Erica playing the piano

Coloring a picture for Papa's birthday!

Masterpieces!

Swimming in the "Bassine" aka pool! Constantly in the pool! (i love one pieces!... trying to set a good example for my lil sisters.... modesty! modesty! modesty!

how can you not smile at this! its even more precious when she puts them on upside down! haha

So far:

Lots of laughs, smiles, language barriers, swimming, walking, coloring, eating, eating, eating :D, screaming with terror running from our dog, playing with dolls, getting dressed up, going to the store, going to McDonalds, looking at their school, celebrating Papa's birthday, getting dressed up in many different outfits, taking loads of pictures, watching veggie tales a million times.... more to come for sure!

It's been tooooooo long!

2008-04-06T12:35:00.000-07:00

Its almost pointless to even try to blog. My life is sooooooo overwhelming. GOD HELP ME! FYI for all of you that don't know.... my family is getting rather larger in exactly 6 days...... i'm very excited! Promise- I am. But I'm SO overwhelmed. I hate to admit it, but I've cried myself to sleep every night for the past month. You would think that I'm depressed... but I'm just stressed. Pray for my family. Jean deDieu (Jado), Cynthia- yes Cynthia (Ziana wants that as her name.....) and Erica are with my parents in Ethiopia finishing documents and should be home Saturday!!! God is good. In all things. your prayers are needed like no other right now. Love you all.

BIRTHDAY/ BRACES GONE BANAZZA!!!!

2008-03-05T17:09:00.000-08:00

I'M 15! AND I GOT MY BRACES OFF!!!!!!!!

MORE TO COME! I'LL TELL YOU HIGHLIGHTS, AND SHOW YOU PICTURES LATER-

Average Day in the Life of Rachel Styffe...

2008-02-27T21:41:00.000-08:00

Getting 4 hours of sleep is always fun!?.... in between waking up at the crack of dawn and passing out at the end of the day- I have a heck of a lot of fun! I'll prove it with these wicked awesome pictures!

Attractive? Yeah- I have glasses and Maddie and I have a ton of fun not listening in Math! :D

Ariel, Bree, and Alli- being Ariel, Bree, and Alli.... I love you guys!

What can I say- at 8 in the morning- I'm on the verge of being... extremely delusional and bizarre.

alli I love your awkwardness! haha!

On the verge of being disgusting!

ok? nuff said.

Maddie- how I love you? I can't help but being weird around my soooo excepting friends!

I love my life!

100th Post!

2008-02-24T16:18:00.000-08:00

About time! I finally wrote 100 posts!.... so I thought I would write 100 completely random things about me... I bet I won't be able to make it to 100!!!

1. I hate chocolate ice cream.
2. I'm really afraid for my family's adoption.
3. I love to eat cold pizza.
4. Skinny dipping is probably one of my favorite things to do!
5. I have a skin disorder called morphia.
6. I found out that Starbucks has a delish drink known as a blended strawberry lemonade.
7. I hate math... with a serious passion.
8. I love michael sampson ;)
9. I always wanted to be a fireman... or is it firewoman?
10. I had the biggest crush on my married english teacher last year. awkward.
11. I love peanut butter!
12. I hate rap music.
13. I love to laugh really loud in totally awkward moments.
14. Teepeeing Taylor Allison's house is a hobby of mine!
15. I hate my dog. well not all the time.
16. I really wana go to prom
17. I cried my self to sleep every night for the past week.
18. I wish I could be in Rwanda right now.
19. I love eating raw cookie dough,
20. I love to go on picnics
21. I love to read on rainy days.
22. I'm a mom in a play in drama- what a surprise.
23. my last name was styffeson but my great X 5 king uncle changed it.
24. I get my braces off on my birthday!
25. My birthday is March 3!
26. I'll be 15!!!! :D FINALLY!
27. I wish I was older.
28. I share my birthday with Lea- Taffy's lil girl and Taylor Shanton :D
29. I love the number 3
30. My favorite cake is chocolate with vanilla icing!
31. I love Brooke White on American Idol.
32. Every time I watch American Idol I think of Melissa Cripe and her mom! :D good times
33. I wish I was funny
34. I love getting make overs by Makenna gurzi.....?
35. I suck at speaking french.
36. My new sisters and brother will be here in a month....hopefully.
37. I already don't know what to say.
38. I once ate a whole crayon... like a month ago.
39. I have my hunting licences.
40. I rather have my drivers licences.
42. I like to play with play dough
43. Saturday mornings with michael are my favorite!!
44. If I wanted to lose 30 pounds I could be a model.
45. I want a tree house.
46. I can't wait for these girls to be my sisters- just so I have an excuse to play Barbies and house again! haha
47. If you're still reading this- jesus loves you extra!
48. I'm afraid of two things: being stabbed and not showing who Jesus is in my life.
49. I love white chocolate!
50. I hate cranberries.
51. I like to paint. and be artsy
52. I wish I knew how to play the harp- well.
53. I can't wait for summer!
54. I love to cook!
55. I want to go sky diving on my 18th birthday! Anyone wanna go with me?
56. I love Veggie Tales
57. After smiling a lot my cheeks hurt.
58. I love to watch movies in the pitch dark.
59. I've always wanted an ant farm
60. I'm really good at hula hooping
61. I hope to live to be 61
62. I love playing uno
63.I love giving guys a make over- michael? are you gamed?
64. I miss my phone!
65. I love food!
66. I'm really afraid of heights
67, I wish I was athletic and fit.
68, I hate coffee
69. I like trying all the taste tests in Costco a billion times
70. I love disneyland- you should too!
71. I've never been to a "real" concert,
72. I love country music
73. I love rainbow and raspberry sherbet
74. I hate my big toe.
75. I love chocolate covered anything- especially strawberries!
76. I try to live like Jesus.... it doesn't always go so well.
77. I love to be a Church
78. I'm really impatient right now
79. I wish I could text Melly and see how the red carpet and the Oscars are!
80. I really want to sing Mighty to Save next weekend in HSM
81. I wish I was asian- their cool.
82. I love talking!
83. I hate airplanes
84. If I could I would drive to Africa- or take a hot air balloon- I would
85. I love the summer way more than the winter
86. I love kids! I want to have 5 biological and adopt 5 or 7!
87. I have no desire to live in the United States.
88. I think not having my phone for two weeks I'll forget how to text! :(
89. My favorite book of the Bible is Philippians.
90. This summer I'm either working for my mommy or volunteering in a hospital
91. I'm cute.
92. I love to read magazines
93. I really love sushi and del tocos fries!
94. I would like to learn how to scrapbook better
95. I like to put puzzles together
96. I wish I could dance- someone teach me! For reals!
97. I hate commercials on TV
98. I love flowers- they make me happy!
99. I love Jesus!
100. I'm glad this is over! :D

Oops! It broke...

2008-02-22T18:06:00.000-08:00

my phone. OUCH! a big boo boo! :( Ya. so it broke. and now it's non-existent. k- if you know anything about how big of a texting queen I am... you'll have sympathy for me when I tell you this:.....

I can't talk or text for TWO WEEKS!!!! :( :( AHHH! I might die!
You see I have to send it in to get fixed- and it's gunna take TWO WEEKS!!!!
Oh and when I get it back I won't have my contacts saved, oh a pictures, and calendar events, and the 142 text messages I have saved from my hunk man..... to say the least......it sucks.

but thats what i get. even though i don't know what I did to deserve this. oh well. So you can call me or text me..... but i won't get it.... for TWO WEEKS!! TWO WHOLE FLIPPIN WEEKS!......talk to you then! Other wise.... call my house. get skype and we can chat. or maybe I'll blog. but thats unlikely. bye for now.

a hairy mess!....

2008-02-18T10:19:00.000-08:00

In the past two months ive:
dyed my hair light brown
added really ugly blonde highlights
then I chopped off 9 inches
then I dyed it this dark alburn.....
I might keep it this way for awhile- but you never know... I like experiementing with my hair!

It's been a month...

2008-02-11T18:18:00.000-08:00

Soooo I thought I might blog again.
Lets face it- I stink at keeping up with this blog junk.
But I'm gunna try to revive myself!

Updates to come on:
Rwandan Children
Room redecoration completion
My awful hair cut
Cute things my hunk man does for me

... the likelihood that any of this will be blogged about is 1 in a billion.... but I will try. later. when i feel like it. which isn't right now.

Erin and Rachel Photo Shoot!!

2008-01-12T13:53:00.003-08:00

WHAT'S TAKIN SO FRIGGIN' LONG!?

2008-01-10T16:05:00.000-08:00

Seriously now?- Seriously? Those precious kids that will soon be my brother and sisters... yeah they're not here! It's taken sooooooo long!

Really now? 2 whole flippin years? They should have been here over the summer- then we changed it to the beginning of the school year, then at Thanks Giving time, and we defiantly thought they would be here before Christmas- that soon changed. Then we THOUGHT by now- mid January. But because of this stupid stupidness it probably won't be until March. But I'm reluctant to say anything because I have a hard time believe that this time they will actually become part of the family anytime soon.

All that said... This takes way to long. It sucks. I hate it. But I can't wait to hold them in my arms, teach them how to do literally everything, and watch them grown up being their big sister.

Be praying that the madness in Kenya stops so we can actually travel to Rwanda, pray for the kids to keep them safe...this orphanage is really vulnerable for rape and abuse etc. Pray for my family that our heads would stay on straight through this long process... for patience!

Mistaken Identity.

2008-01-06T13:07:00.000-08:00

Scout... WAS the name of my precious lil doggy. I despised the name. I prayed that some how it would change- and it did!!!! This morning..... after a week of calling her "Scout", getting pretty tags, and crying over the unfortunate name.... my parents decided to rename her CHEERIO.... I'm not sure how I feel about this...hmm..... Cheerio? or Scout? Which is worse?

MY PUPPY!

2008-01-01T21:16:00.000-08:00

MY PUPPY! 10 week old girl beagle!! Her name is Scout (not Scott- but scout like girl scouts.) and I hate it. I think it's the most masculine name for the the most famine dog on the planet! I suggested Abby or Belle but NO! :D oh well! She defiantly has a spoiled dogs life- pink collar, tags, CLOTHES!

My Baby- Scout.

This is her in her pink shirt with hearts and glitter all over it... she hates it. :D
Get that itch!
Oh gosh mom! Look how sad she looks! haha
Mikey, Moi, and my "Kabwa" (that means dog is kyinarwanda)

Nathan flashing the camera at his new model!
Cuddles!
Sleeps like a ROCK! Thank GOD!

A NEW DOG???

2007-12-30T20:58:00.000-08:00

After waiting almost a year- (actually 349 days) for a new dog- the time is almost here! It's a possibility that we might be getting a BEAGLE puppy! Were going tonight to check out this 10 week old girl beagle to see if we'll add her to our family- not that we won't be have enough going on this next year- we thought we add a puppy! Ill show you pictures!

Tyra Banks Show....

2007-12-28T12:16:00.000-08:00

(((You keep me thoroughly entertained.)))

I think I'm in love with you.

Let me think-

yup. i love you.

anyone else love tyra?

SNOW in the DESERT?

2007-12-22T09:10:00.000-08:00

So I went to Flagstaff, Arizona.... It's no desert! How about 14 degree weather?? Oh yes! Here are some highlights!:

I'm now a SPELUNKER:
(noun) a person who explores caves, esp. as a hobby.

This is how it ran down:

"Ok Peter! Let's just explore shady snow covered caves in the middle of a random forest! Sure!???? NOT!"

Yeah- that hole.... it goes down into the ground and then 3/4 a mile in!!! UM YEAH! FREAKY!!!!

The Journey Begins! YIKES!
I'm not a science guru but I did think that was sweet! Icicles growing from the ground and the ceiling! What are those called again?

The Fam:
Momma and Me

Ok the Grand Canyon- COVERED IN SNOW! BIZARRE! Good ol Snow Angles
Gearing up to be FREEZING!

Daddy and Moi
Yeah this is when I was literally FREEZING my lil bootie off! 14 degrees AND winds! BUR! I know those people! A very fun, freezing, successful, spur of the moment vacation!

I'm awful.

2007-12-08T10:34:00.000-08:00

I do apologize for the lack of effort on this thing called a blog. Yeah- I know. I suck at blogging, posting pictures or anything else that requires work- for that matter.

So here's my life in a nut shell.

- so relived that the summit is over! this week was so amazing- nothing happened= no stress!
-Small Group is incredible. Who new BB was so strong- ouch!!! :D
-Um I died my hair. It wasn't what I expected. It looks exactly the same if not worse. :(
- new bedroom furniture because of 2 beautiful sisters who will be sharing a room with me.
- Decorated my house for Christmas. I hate fake trees. Boo- fake trees= no holiday joy. haha
- Went to THHS Championship game.... we lost 13 to 12 SO CLOSE!
- Michael is coming over today to hang out.... always a blast!

Oh and posting pictures- I've been taking pictures. just to lazy to post them. sorry guys.

So I've Decided....

2007-12-05T18:17:00.001-08:00

to OFFICIALLY dye my hair. Yes its true- it's actually gunna happen! Enough yakking about it- I finally decided on the color (and since I have like zero cents in my little piggy bank- I decided to just do the old fashion cheap-o way: I'm using the box. No fancy hair salon for me!) I'm really scared and

I'll show you pictures when I'm all finished later tonight!

I don't think you get it!

2007-12-02T14:37:00.000-08:00

OHMIGOODNESSS! I don't think you guys understand! Um yea-My family will be only a fam of 6 peeps for not much longer! Seriously now- seriously??? Do you understand that

in a month I'll have 7 brothers and SISTERS!!!!????

CRAZY! What is the world is my familia doing??? I've been the only girl- In my own room- and now I'll be the 3rd girl and sharing a room with two new sisters! We're out of our minds! Pray for us as were on the home stretch! Lord willing-

ONE MONTH TO GO!!!!

What Just Happened?

2007-12-02T10:53:00.000-08:00

I'm still in a state of shock! OHMIGOODNESS! What just happened? SUMMIT ON AIDS AND THE CHURCH, AIDS WEEK IN THE SCHOOLS, FILM/MUSIC/ART FESTIVALS, YOUTH SUMMIT, HSM'S MESSAGE THIS WEEKEND....CRAZY!

This week has gone by sooooo fast! I feel SO relived that this week is over- but just as ecstatic that 981 students showed up and hopefully had their hearts and eyes opened to the pain in the world! CRAZY stuff happened! I hope you had an A-M-Z-I-N-G experience and that God is now giving you a passion for the hurting! So glad you came!

My Life is Officially Over-

2007-11-28T17:42:00.000-08:00

If you've wondered where I've been (or maybe you haven't noticed... love you too! NOT!)... I'm really sorry. My life is officially over due to the AIDS SUMMIT THIS WEEK! (you should go-if not, I might have to hurt you and you're an idiot. :D) So I'm really sorry I've been slacking in many areas- cause of this crazy incredible conference! And HOPEFULLY next week my life will go back to semi normal- thanks so much to all my devoted friends! You're the greatest!

What to expect of the youth summit: REALLY REALLY amazing speakers, testimonies, bands, and a some secret stuff- FUN TIME! You should go Friday night too- The FILM, ART, MUSIC FESTIVAL!! it's free- uber amounts of fun AND (once again) ITS FREE! (and you can sign up at the last minute for the youth summit there)

Like I said- I'm sorry. I'm sooooooo eccentric about this summit (and excited but sad for it to be over... bitter sweet!) and if you don't go- you're missing out and your stupid.... bu I'll still love you! :D

just for you, my dear...your welcome.

2007-11-25T13:59:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry I leave you with this image. All I have to say is sorry kid. Bummer.

This is something I would have done... Let me rephrase that- This is something I would still do.

HOW COULD YOU NOT....???

2007-11-23T07:49:00.000-08:00

...get the chills, have a huge smile on your face, and want to cry when you talk to future brother and sisters on the phone??

I just got off the phone with my Dad, Erica, Ziana, and Jean deDieu

IT WAS BIZARRE!!

So weird- I had the biggest smile on my face the whole time.

Trying to talk in kiynarwanda.... lets just say all I remember how to say is "hi" and "how are you".... but it was so fun- probably the most fun I've had in a long time.

Sounds weird- sure. But you don't understand how much

I miss them! I have the chills.... I JUST TALKED TO MY FUTURE BROTHER AND SISTERS ON THE PHONE! Oh gosh- I miss them like crazy!

I'm an Idiot....

2007-11-22T22:08:00.000-08:00

4:00 IN THE MORNING-

I'm going to be waiting for the doors to open up to some random store.

{{I'M AN IDIOT!}}

what am I thinking?

Seriously now?- Seriously?

***OHMIGOODNESSSSSS!!!!!***

I'm out of my mind....

<<>>

YA for shopping before the stinkin sun pops up!

.......... I'm still and idiot.

AHH I'M SO READY TO EAT SOME TURKEY!

2007-11-21T19:14:00.000-08:00

Mr. Gobble Gobble- BRING IT!! I can't wait to savor your yummy yummyness!

Let me say no more...

2007-11-19T17:01:00.000-08:00

except that braces are awful.
braces + a chain + rubber bands + "steel ties????"= VERY painful.
i'm unhappy.

Sorry Guys!

2007-11-19T16:01:00.000-08:00

Are you tired of me changing all my settings? I promise I'll get things under control soon!- or when I feel like it.... which could take a while... just be patient! I'm not finished yet!!!

ADOPTION NEWS!

2007-11-15T10:44:00.000-08:00

I don't think I can wait another second to hold Erica, Ziana, and Jean deDieu in my arms!- But I'm gunna have to! December 7, 2007 is "supposedly when the Rwanda government will officially approve my family for adopting these precious ones!" CRAZY to think that in a month I could have a Rwandan brother and two sisters running around my house! :D AHHHHHH!!!!

Outside the Orphanage we're adopting from! My Mom is holding Ziana and Erica is in the bottom right wearing white and red! Jean deDieu isn't in this picture! :( I'm having a VERY hard time waiting!

Stupid Colds!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-11-15T10:39:00.001-08:00

I hate colds.
I hate having colds.
BOO! COLDS YOU SUCK!
I don't like you Mr. Cold!
Urgggg- now I'm mad- and I still have a cold....
this got me no where.....

I'm Goin' Light Brown!

2007-11-13T18:59:00.000-08:00

I've decided to die my hair- I'm tired of boring old brown.... and since I'm not willing to cut my hair (cause I wish it was longer) I'm going to die it. I've had many suggestions of dark and auburn brown- but I was thinking.... what about LIGHT BROWN??? Would this be a sin to go lighter in the fall?? Would it look good on me? You see I've died my hair three times- auburn reddish twice and dark brown once.... but those seemed to wash my skin out.... um ya- so light brown? Whst do you think!!???

Ummm- Today???

2007-11-09T21:13:00.001-08:00

It's been a while.....and the past days have been insane- but today was by far the best!! What happened you ask??? Well it started off with another beautiful day at THHS.... I saw my hunk man in the morning... and the rest of the day is just a blurr until 4:30... whennnnn Michael came over, the fun begun by...... straightening his hair, while watching the amazing adventures of a certain cucumber named Larry...aka Veggie Tales... eating pizza, watching The Office, got into a wicked pillow fight- which unfortunately he won??- some tickle mania done by non other than my little brother and Michael- (Stephen and Michael- I'm gunna get you back!) I'm so exhausted- but I haven't had this much fun all week!

Hey- guess what? Chi Alpha tomorrow!! AHH! I'm uber excited! Now I'm packin!

Has it really almost been a week?

2007-11-04T11:00:00.000-08:00

Time goes by fast when you're busy! I can't believe it! It's almost been a week since I blogged! I'm not apologizing for not blogging- just surprised at how little I care. Soon- eventually- I will post about my Grandma's 80th Birthday Bonanza, Halloween, and My Parent's 25th Wedding Anniversary Party!! That is eventually- as in- when I feel like it- which isn't any time soon. :D

Don't you just hate it

2007-10-29T16:35:00.000-07:00

when you burn your tongue on a hot drink?? Or even worse: you burn your tongue on an expensive, Starbucks tall non fat vanilla cream: hot no whip cream, and then with your reaction to the enormous amount of heat you spill it all over your face, all the way down yourself, and to your toes. Now not only is your tongue on fire- but now, your whole body.... GREAT! and you look at your half empty cup of Starbucks and struggle to wonder "why?" Oh goodness it's been a long day

An ode to fanny packs

2007-10-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

??FaNnY pAcKs??

%%They Hold Your:%%

*random coins*

your average leftovers of string cheese.

Fruity Tutti Lip Gloss

iMrs. Lukin!

The occasional broken purple crayon

+++ crusty play dough +++

McDonald's ketcup only kids meal.

({<[ dust bunnies ]>})

#Pogo Sticks!#

_-_-_Costco Taste Tests_-_-_

and of course your

@@collection of cabbage patch kids dolls.@@

i sincerely believe everyone should own a fanny pack

Aftermath of the most emotional night of my life...

2007-10-23T11:25:00.001-07:00

Pictures Below!!!:

The most emotional day of my life occurred yesterday as fires reached my backyard. My day started out by coming home early from school, just to be safe. And as the afternoon went on, the winds were not to our advantage. The fire continued to come closer to my house. We began to pack everything that couldn't be replaced or had significance. You often get asked "What three things would you bring if you were stranded...." but this time it was for real. Gathering photo albums, family home videos, and computers. It was the scariest, most stressful, exhausting night of my life. We were so blessed to have the presence of my family, neighbors, The Eastman Family, Holladay Family, Miller Family, McNeff Family, Crave Students, Kay, Joy, Jessica, Andrew, Melissa Cripe, and some of Nathan's friends. Without them and without the company of friends over the phone I wouldn't have been able to do this emotionally. Then the winds picked up and down over the ridge of the mountain- the fire moved. This is when Stephen, Kay, Joy, and I got in the car immediately and drove to her house. Crying with family and friends. The firefighters said it was just a matter of time until the fire would get my house. They said it was a miracle it's still standing. A blessing from God! Stephen and stayed the night at the Eastman household while my parents and Nathan stayed up all night watering down the house. It was so exhausting.... 90% of the time I will is tears, full on sobs..... it's bizarre to be at home now looking out the window on pitch black hills. Thank you for all your prayers, text messages, and phone calls. Sorry not being able to talk to you- as you can see I was in a state of trauma. Praise God we're fine. Struggling to put our house together- in the middle of redecorating!

When the fire began to come towards us....

I know this doesn't seem like much. But when you're this close..... it's traumatizing. We have an inch of ash lying at the bottom of my pool. gross. but just thanking Jesus that were not sifting through the remains of my house!

1 room down- 2 more to go!

2007-10-22T11:40:00.000-07:00

IT IS FINISHED.... well only one room. This was my old room but now it welcomes Stephen and Jean deDieu!

MY room BEFORE:

A little different! Not completely finished. We still have to add more furniture and accessories!

NOW:

It is beyond bizarre to stand in "Stephen's Room" and realize that two days ago it was lime green and MY ROOM.....

Meanwhile: all my furniture is either in my hallway, bathroom, Peter or Nathan's room. I feel homeless! But soon we will begin to redecorate for my new room! Little confusing?

FIRE!

2007-10-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

I'm at home in the midst of madness.... You guys are at school and I'm at home packing up my house. The fire is on the hills behind my house. Please pray. God protect us.

The Room Transformation Progress:

2007-10-21T09:12:00.000-07:00

PRIMER: Lots and Lots of Primer!

The last of the lime green!

Goodbye Green- Hello White??? I guess I lied!
Green= Never Again.....

Why no pictures of Michael...??? He was DEFIANTLY there- without him we couldn't have done this! But just thought I should keep you waiting!

Goodbye Green- Hello Pink Room!!!

2007-10-19T16:49:00.000-07:00

I'M DECORATING MY ROOM- or should I say my NEW BIGGER ROOMMMMMM!!!

Because of my family's adoption... we are switching and redecorating our rooms this weekend! Right now my room is lime green and blue- VERY VERY bright, but cheery... but now I'm moving into a bigger room which at the moment is Stephen and Nathan's room. I'm going for the light pink, cream, and tan antique-ish theme! But whom am I sharing this room with?? Prayerfully Erica and Ziana!!!!!!!!

My room now:

Colors I'm going for:

Pictures to come of our progress .... along with pictures of Michael (since he's helping us paint!)

Surgery Awaits for Stephen...

2007-10-15T17:28:00.000-07:00

When Stephen (my little brother) was 6 months old he got a 3rd degree burn on his arm from an iron, leaving a horrible scar. On Wednesday Mr. Stephen is having a surgery to regraph his scar. Keep him in your prayers. Stephen is REALLY excited to stay home from school for three days! Oh Stephen you make me smile!

A New Header? I can't decide!

2007-10-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

Not that I don't love the header that Miss. Heather Leith so graciously created for me.... but do you think it's time to change it up?? HELP ME DECIDE! I can't!!!

Oh Braces- how I despise you!

2007-10-12T17:33:00.000-07:00

I can't begin to tell you how much my mouth hurts right now! Goodness! Dear Braces, I despise you a great deal right now. Anyone else in my boat?

iEl Problemo! HELP ME!

2007-10-10T15:34:00.000-07:00

OH NO! My Anti- Homecoming Party is on the same night of a HSM Halloween Festival!!!! WHAT TO DO? Have an Anti-Dance and not dance the night way? Or do WE ALL go to the festival and get strep throat while bobbing for apples??? HELP ME!

GRANDPA! Awkward!

2007-10-09T17:25:00.000-07:00

I'm changing my clothes after school when my Grandpa randomly decides to take a stroll through my house when I'm half naked.... he walks right past my bedroom! Gosh- he freaked out and I was freaking out even more..... awkward. Dear 82 year old Grandpa.... you make me feel uncomfortable..... :I

Anti-Homecoming Party!

2007-10-06T11:01:00.000-07:00

Yes it's true.

I think Homecoming is overrated.

Seriously? Why spend tons of money on dresses, tickets, dinner..... all that....

and for what?

So I can spend my night doing something I'm horrible at and loath.... aka dancing.

You see- I'm just not good at it.

I don't enjoy it ...

what so ever.

Next year?

maybe.

now?

ANTI-DANCE PARTY AT MY PLACE!

I'm dead serious. I'm having a party at my house and anyone who wants to celebrate our non-dancing lives are welcomed!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ERIN!!!!

2007-10-03T18:28:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 14th BIRTHDAY ERIN!!!!!!

AHHHH!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR ERRRRRIIIIIINNNNN!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!

I love you with 98.7654 of my heart!

You make me happy!

You're the greatest newly 14 year old woman on the planet!

Day 564. How much longerrrrrrr??

2007-10-02T18:12:00.000-07:00

Number of days since beginning of our adoption process: 564.

How much longer?

Pray for it to be through soon.

I just want to hold those precious children....

i'm done waiting.

i'm defiantly done waiting.

how much longer do i have to wait?

p.s this is an accurate number- according to my padre.

I guess I need to get out more?- well this is humbling...

2007-09-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Grandma and Granddad!

2007-09-30T15:23:00.000-07:00

How do you not love your Grandparents? Seriously now? My Grandma and Granddad are my heroes! The cutes couple ever- married for 57 years! CRAZY- and they just got back from Thailand on a missions trip! They're 80 years old! And they're still traveling to Poland, Kenya, and Thailand?? Plus they hike miles of mountains with us in Yosemite every year! This goes out to my grams and gramps!

Grandma and Peter!

Even though this was five years ago- this is still one of my favorite pictures of my Granddad!

Don't you love grandparents?

The Past 27 hours, 51 minutes and 12... nope 13 seconds...

2007-09-28T21:44:00.000-07:00

I've:
eaten 2 whole cucumbers
crawled around on the ground like a crab.
"skipped" a mile... not as in ditch- but as skip.... like kindergarten.
watched the first episode of the Office (Season 4) 3 times.
gotten about 4 hours of sleep
I owe $241.oo
thought about Rwanda approximately 7,488.49 times.
eaten a shark
danced in the "rain"
have decided I'm in love with reading... in fact i'm officially a geek.
been puzzled about what the big deal is about Halo 3
wrote a paper about a 17 pound baby and a two headed turtle.
Saw two friends practically naked after water polo.

pretty exciting- not really- just liked to think so.

Say What? D.C., New York, and Boston?

2007-09-27T16:46:00.000-07:00

D.C.! New York and Boston- LOADS of pictures! From start to finish- stories NOT included.

The gang- getting ready to go to D.C.!

Super tired in the D.C. airport!

While in D.C. Kay spoke at a Rwanda Convention! VERY exciting plans for this amazing country! Of course my camera died during the convention.

The Washington Memorial! I have no clue what that weird green light is!

Ok we miss our flight to New York- very bad! I'll explain later. So here we are EXTREMELY tired at like 2 am! At the airport hotel... ya for free tooth brushes and tooth paste!

NEW YORK!!!

"TAXI"- Joy you are excellent at this!

Authentic New York Pizza with Ryan and Brittany Holladay!!! What a joy!

That pizza looks like a salad- but it was the yummiest thing on the planet! 3 pizzas for 6 people- figure it out. Good thing Ryan was there..... number of slices: 9

Walking around NYC

Subways!! So weird.... but very fun!

Beautiful Joy!

Shopping! Wish I took more pictures- but the people in the store would freak out. I found the ugliest things for thousands of dollars.... have they ever heard of the 99 cent store??? guess not.

I had to go inside prada- duh.

The Trump Towers- seriously now? as in the apprentice??? crazy!

The TODAY show studio!!!

The street the Today Show is on.... very famous.

CBS studio- VERY big.

More of CBS....

Very charming man in Central Park offering a ride- which we took up!

My Mom and I in a horse drawn carriage.- not that you can tell that I'm in one.

Very fun girls day! (trust me there was work involved.... walking around NYC- that's work! jk)

Me trying to be macho. key word: trying.

The Empire State Building (at a weird angle)

Times Square!!! Man if there is any cause of global warming- this is it! SOOO many lights!

The Lion King Musical on Broadway!

Mel- this is for you- the M&M store- jumbo..... very jumbo.

BOSTON!

TONS of beautiful Churches- I have so many pictures- but that would bore you!

Some important building.

Can you say I've spent quite some time with the Hollodays- Alyssa you're my love!

Yummy ice cream- delish!

guess what? more churches!

Boston has the cutest towns and streets!

So pretty much- this is just a taste- I have so many funny stories- ask me sometime! I'm pretty sure I would be completly lost if I ever lived in any of these places!

My Dream Come True!

2007-09-26T22:28:00.000-07:00

My small group is AMAZING! Can you say oh so much fun?- 13 of my greatest friends FINALLY in ONE ABS? Thank the Lord! A little shout out to:

Melody Shell Erin BB Jessie Jessica Bree Marissa Jen Caroline Madison Krista

.... if I forgot anyone- oops.

An ode to Heather, Hannah, Taylor, and Ariel...

Oh why must you not be in our group?

my life is dull and pointless

without our warm toesies united as one.

Oh Heather

you make me feel under the weather-

Tuesdays without you? oh poo.

Dearest Hannah, Taylor, and Ariel

how can you be busy on Tuesdays

I am shedding peanut butter and jelly tears.

Just keepin you waitin...

2007-09-26T20:23:00.001-07:00

I promise-
eventually
I will show you highlights of my weekend
in D.C. New York, and Boston-
pinki promise.

On my way home!

2007-09-24T15:43:00.000-07:00

YA! I'm in Boston!-

Coming home-

on the airplane.

the lady is telling me to turn off the computer...

got to go?

yes.

I guess I did it wrong???

2007-09-22T19:30:00.000-07:00

Opps- THREE words and NO LESS!

1. Where is your cell phone? in my carry-on

2. Where is one of your parents? down the hall.

3. Who is your boyfriend/girlfriend (or husband/wife)? no need really

4. Cheesecake? ehhhh- not great

5. Your favorite thing to do? be really obnoxious

6. Your dream last night? i didn't sleep

7. Your favorite drink? milk! milk! mElk!

8. The room you're in? a NY hotel!

9. George Bush? hero, leader, strong

10. What you're good at? deep sea fishing

11. One of your wish list items? Rwandan brother/sister

12. Where did you grow up? South Orange County

13. The last thing you did? ate dried fruit

14. What are you wearing? uncomfortable business suit.

15. Who stole your sunglasses? what is this?

16. Ketchup? only from Rwanda

17. Your computer? I don't know

18. Your life? very very blessed

19. Your mood? tired: doesn't explain

20. Your next blog? nightmare in D.C.

21. Your car is? mommy mini van

22. Your summer? busy very busy

23. Your relationship status? who really cares?

24. Your favorite color(s)? pink, yellow, purple

25. When is the last time you laughed? two minutes ago.

Did I do it right this time??? I tag Erin, Melody, and Crushinator!

Tagged By Bethany- and everyone eles.

2007-09-21T21:04:00.000-07:00

1. Where is your cell phone? dead in my carry-on.
2.Who is your boyfriend/girlfriend (or husband/wife)? married to Jesus.
3. Where is one of your parents? next to me in our bed in a hotel in D.C!!!
4. Cheesecake? ehhh. I LOVE CHOCOLATE CAKE!
5. Your favorite thing to do? Be obnoxious.
6. Your dream last night? I don't remember.
7. Your favorite drink? MILK!!! Pronounced: mElk
8. The room you're in? hotel room in D.C.
9. George Bush? my hero. his wife is the sweetest thing.
10. What you're good at? eating
11. One of your wish list items? sister and another brother.
12. Where did you grow up? South Orange County
13. The last thing you did? ate a piece of dried banana
14. What are you wearing? black sweats and purple sweater
15. Who stole your sunglasses? what? I don't wear sunglasses.
16. Ketchup? ohhh only if it's from Africa- extra sweet.
17. Your computer? old.

18. Your life? blessed.

19. Your mood? VERY tired and a sickening feeling in my tummy. i hate airplanes.
20. Your next blog? whenever I'm not busy/
21. Your car is? I don't drive. My bike.
22. Your summer? lots of traveling.
23. Your relationship status? Available... but not looking for anyone. :D
24. Your favorite color(s)? Orange, Pink, Lavender... PEACH
25. When is the last time you laughed? When I scared Kay almost to death.. laughed for like 10 minutes.

I Tag Erin!

I've been keeping a secret...

2007-09-21T08:21:00.000-07:00

and most of you don't know- but my Momma is going to D.C., New York, and Boston. BUT I'm going with her! So I hope you're enjoying school because I won't be home until Tuesday morning! :D I'll be blogging along the way- and hopefully posting pictures too! haha

My Hollywood experience! LA, Getty Museum, Concert at the Hollywood Bowl- tons of fun!

2007-09-19T18:27:00.000-07:00

Can you say AMAZING? I know- I know I haven't blogged in a while- and this took place on Sunday- so I'm a little slow- so what! :D My Mom and I spent the day in LA visiting our close friend, Maurene Love: my Mom's harp teacher, famous photographer, and VERY professional harpist, and sister of Mike Love- the main Beach Boy. Here are the highlights!

Taking a tram to the Getty Museum! This is my momma and Maureen!

For those of you like me- having never been to the Getty- this is what it looks like... actually this is only part of it! IT'S JUMBO!

yeah- more of it.

Ohhh and some more.

Maureen in action- taking pictures of the BEAUTIFUL gardens.

The BF's More pretty gardens!

My Mom and me- notice our height difference and she's wearing heals!

MORE Spectacular gardens

Umm- some more.
The Hollywood Bowl- not your typical concert... you're sitting- outside... sounds boring- but it was it was so hilarious! Plus it was sold out- like 17,000 people- um that's a lot! Fun stuff ask me about it.

One of the billion pictures I have of the amazing firework spectacular- the ending to the show.

Having the inside scoop- we get to go back stage... this is the vocalist- awkward picture. But she is SOOO amazing! Getting ready to sign autographs.

Famous people that were there- you don't know any of them cause their ancient history.

These people are ledges!! Seriously ask your parents. These two people just might be the reason it was so much fun!

They're not actually part of the group- but came as special guests!

It was a blast- may not look like a lot of fun but it really was!

3 year, 1 month, and 13 day old orange juice....

2007-09-17T18:04:00.000-07:00

SO here I am sippin a little oj out of a juice box- which by the way I haven't done in years. an I'm examining the box- just like any curious person would. then i see the date. and i threw up. Full on all my lunch and more out on the floor.... but why? BECAUSE it was 3 years, 1 month, and 13 days old orange juice!!!!!! PEOPLE do you understand??? I THREW UP! OLD ORANGE JUICE!!!!! gross doesn't even being to describe the feeling inside of my stomach. Minute Maid OJ- ugg.

Did you see??

2007-09-17T15:34:00.001-07:00

The cutest dog on the planet? If you haven't seen Alli's dog wondering around my house all day- then you've probably seen her at Church/ the Student Leadership Meeting! This is precious Bailey... the most adorable puppy on the planet!

Your next hair cut? Baily does it for free!

Baily are you a little tired?- asleep on my Dad's foot- awesome.

Men Can Cry Too...??... oh wait this is a girl.

2007-09-14T14:57:00.000-07:00

Eight Below- enough said? For sure one of the saddest movies on the planet. So Stephen and I were watching it... we're half way through the movie when I look over at Stephen in he is full on balling.... sobs and sobs and sobs! tears running down his face, the hiccupy breathing... I was laughing inside but felt bad for him! It was the funniest part of the movie! Oh gosh- i love Stephen Styffe stories! my favorite!

Just add 10 years to this kid- and that is what it was like!

I'm offically a cave woman.

2007-09-13T12:01:00.000-07:00

Our refrigerator broke. yeah- we're using ice to keep all our food cold. It's weird. I feel like I should be finger painting my walls and wearing bones in my hair.... who knows when we'll get a new one.

our dead- empty- and very smelly fridge. yummy.

And now we're off to Home Depot to get a new one!

ADOPTION NEWS!!!!!!

2007-09-12T19:12:00.000-07:00

GUYS! I'M FREAKING OUT! OUR ADOPTION IS COMPLETE! PRAISE GOD! We are officially officially DONE with our paperwork- now we just have to wait for Rwanda's government (supposedly not long) and pray about what children God is calling us to!! I'm so ex static right now! do you understand? I might have 4 brothers and 1 sister!!!!! OH MY WORD! CRAZY! Be praying for my family, God's guidance, the children, and Rwanda! Pictures of potential Styffinators!

Jean de Dieu (boy: age 8) Zaina (girl: age 7) brother and sister- were really praying about.

Not all four- only in my dreams... but any are possiblities/ children we haven't met yet! be praying!

who says you can't have fun with a backpack?...

2007-09-10T19:41:00.000-07:00

Finally- It is finished! The reviling of my backpack... these pictures aren't great... a LOT cuter in person! I like it- that's all that matters right? Just to prove how horrible my camera is- I'm posting the same pictures just different lighting... both are ugly. yes. this is the same backpack.

It's a bird, it's a plane, it's a giant orange balloon?

2007-09-09T19:52:00.000-07:00

Has anyone seen this jumbo orange balloon in the sky near Irvine?- Well my family and next-door neighbors took a trip to this historical site. We were about to go and take a ride up in it- but then it got too windy! Next time! Here are some random pictures!

Who doesn't love cute couples?

2007-09-09T12:10:00.001-07:00

How do you not get fuzzy feelings inside when you see cute couples out on dates? - pictures of a family night at Balboa Island with family and brother's girlfriends!

The gang- Laura, Peter, Nathan, Alli

Ok.... just make me decide...

2007-09-08T11:39:00.001-07:00

on which backpack I should use! By golly you peoples are making me stressed out! Pink? Brown? My heart is torn in two. Soooo my pick is..... dun, dun, dun, dun!!!!! -

Brown with cute pink and white accents!

Don't ask me why i chose it. I have no clue. I'll defiantly show you a pic once I decorate it! :D

oh well...

2007-09-05T17:05:00.001-07:00

those summer goals didn't happen this time! I hoped to have...

Read 7 books.... nope that didn't happen... try one! haha
Connected with tons of friends.... defiantly not... sorry guys
gone to the beach a gazillion times.... only in my dreams...
lost 5 pounds... uh- oh..... how about gain 5 pounds?
Go rent tons of old movies and watch them.... no again.
Have a billion sleep overs.... does sharing a bed in Rwanda count?
Swim, Swim, and Swim some more.... I've been in my bathing suit 9 times this summer. pathetic.
Volunteer at CHOC hospital for 40 hours..... hours completed: not one, zero, Nada, zilch, zip.
Have 2+ more sibling's this summer.... nope still the same old 4.

As much of a disappointment this is to me.... I did get to:

Travel to Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi, England, Chicago, Camp, Palm Springs, San Diego, Los Angeles, friends houses, malls, beaches.....
Relax... and a lot of it... TV, movies, cooking, talking on the phone, blogging, sitting out in the sun.
Be with my family.... a ton of this. mainly cause "we have to"... the adoption agency recommends that we do.

Summer I already miss you. School... I still don't like you.

HELP ME! i don't want to be a dork!

2007-09-04T17:27:00.001-07:00

Backpacks? In High School? Is this a crime? HELP ME!

Here are my options

1. Brown Jansport Backpack- (I would add different colors of pink and white buttons/ fabric on the pocket to add personality.)

2. A light pink, tan, and white jansport backpack

3. A purse/bag.... not sure which one that would be!

PLEASE HELP ME! I can't decide!

Introducing my 2007 Halloween Costume!!!!

2007-09-04T15:21:00.000-07:00

Yes... My friends and I still dress up for Halloween... so fun. Sorry Erin no "tacky tourist" this year. Cause I'm going to be.... drum roll please....

DUN, DUN, DUN, DUN!!!

It's comin....

Just wait and see........

yup. that's right. you know your jealous.

I'M GOING TO BE A BUG!!!

don't ask me what kind. I don't wanna know.

Gross Scorpion in my bathroom!!!!!!

2007-09-04T13:03:00.000-07:00

AHHH!! disgusting!!! yes. I had the pure joy and pleasure to wake up to a scorpion in my bathroom!!! I was freaking out to say the least! YIKES! My Dad killed it before I could get a picture... but this is kind of what it looked like....

Can You Say Depressing?....

2007-09-03T21:10:00.000-07:00

Oh i just feel like throwing up. I just watched "Stranger Than Fiction" with Alli and Nathan.... I'm just glad I didn't spend 8 bucks at the movie theater to watch it. I hate depressing movies, things, stories, music, poetry, people, places, old people. Now I'm sad and not in a good mood! Stranger than Fiction..... you make me unhappy.

Ugg. School- I hate you.

2007-09-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

School I don't like you. I really don't want to think about you. Or have anything to do with you. Urg.... just thinking about school makes me sick. I laugh at those who have already started school... and I laugh even harder for those who start school tomorrow! hahahahahahaha!!!!!!!!!

Dear Sky- what is your problem?

2007-09-02T22:05:00.000-07:00

Seriously now? Seriously? First it's 105 degrees... then there is this earthquake, then there is a thunder and lighting storm, then it rains... while still being 95 degrees!!! What is the deal?

What Happens When Jessica and Krista Steal My Camera??....

2007-09-02T14:49:00.000-07:00

Yup.... this is what happens when your bored at Church all weekend... and people find your camera!

Miss. Heather Leith!

Jessica and Jordan!!!!

Visiting Wildside..... oh memories.

The girls of my life.

Not that you don't want to see 57 more pictures of Krista and Jessica... but I think you have the idea....