The Babblings of Mere

New Year's Eve

2011-12-30T22:35:00.003-06:00

It's (almost) New Year's Eve and I can honestly say that I have absolutely no idea where this year went. I contemplated doing a recap in photos because, well, Lord knows I take enough pictures. I decided to refrain because that's the fad right now, and I'm not a big fan of following fads all the time.

At the beginning of 2011, I came up with a list of things I would like to accomplish as most everyone does at the beginning of a new year.

That list was:

1.) Blog at least 1/week
2.) Start really living each day to the fullest again instead of "goingthrough the motions."
3.) Work less days and the same amount of hours
4.) Make straight A's for Spring 2011 in college (first semester was 3 B's and 2 A's)<----BOO!
5.) Put my weightloss in high gear again and get back to 120 lbs.
6.) Take MORE pictures
7.) Laugh more :D
8.) Spend more time with those I love most
9.) Stay away from negative people and those that don't make good choices
10.) Express myself more
11.) Make good choices as far as location goes for Fall 2011 <---more later on this

I'm actually quite proud of myself for accomplishing eight out of my eleven goals. It's a rarity I fully finish things compliments of my ADHD. haha I'm going to keep the three things I did not accomplish in 2011 on my list of things to get done in 2012. What should I add to my list to accomplish for 2012? I'll be thinking on that one, but would love to hear your ideas!

What are you doing for New Year's? Any BIG plans?

Mommy and Me Monday- Furbaby Edition

2011-12-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

Krystyn over at Really, Are You Serious? has been hosting Mommy and Me Monday for what seems like forever. The only requirement is that moms actually get in the picture with their kids, or in my case, furbabies! While I don't promise to participate every Monday, I will do my best to remember as many Mondays as possible! I am really excited I can finally participate with my Murphy :))

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?

Murphy at 14 weeks and 4 days old with me on Christmas Eve. In the background, you'll notice that I got him a Pottery Barn Kids Classic Red Velvet Stocking with his name on it. He also has a bandana made by the lovely Teresa at The Embroidery Room. She has the best quality and pays attention to the smallest details that make each item fabulous! I've ordered three bandanas from her now and cannot wait to order more. I love love LOVE her work!! My Murphy is so spoiled rotten, and I love every minute of his spoiling! My little prince deserves it!

And the title of “Worst Blogger EVER!” goes to….

2011-12-25T20:43:00.002-06:00

...MERE! Once again, due to my oh so hectic schedule, my beloved blog has been placed on the back burner. It has been a crazy last few months and I'm so grateful the calendar pages kept on flipping. If my life was this hectic and crazy all the time, I *might* just loose my sanity.

Murphy arrived on November 12th and stole my heart from the very beginning. While I have had dogs my entire life, this one has been different because I get the role of "Mommy." It has been my best role yet. I have paid for everything for this handsome boy from Day 1. I love him more than words can express. He’s such a Mommy’s boy.

Picking up my boy at the airport Nov. 12- 8 weeks and 4 days old

Thanksgiving Day 10 weeks and 2 days old

Thanksgiving Day- Take 2

Murphy’s official Christmas picture- 12 weeks and 3 days old

13 weeks and 3 days old

On November 25, we lost our sweet boy, Buster Elias Brown. He was 10 years old and ultimately died of kidney failure. He had been in the hospital for almost a week and we did everything we could to save our boy. He was Mom, Brent and I’s dog and we miss him more than anything. The house we live in was “his” house and everything around it reminds us of him. Our hearts hurt. He did not get much time to spend with Murphy before he joined his best friend, Bluey, in heaven, but for the time they did have together, I am so grateful. I see a lot of Buster coming out in Murphy, so I’m beginning to think Buster is embedding some of his personality in Murphy from heaven. It’s so fun to see but tugs at my heart quite a bit, too.

I finished this semester and while I love college, I hated this semester with a purple passion. I went to University of Houston- Downtown and have never been more miserable. It was awful. Luckily, I only planned on going there for one semester anyway. It was my interim school while I schemed my next move. I made good grades and am making one last move to the University of St. Thomas here in Houston. I plan on graduating from there; it’s a really good school. I’m much happier being back in Houston for sure but do miss San Marcos on occasion. More than anything, I miss being less than an hour from my Grammy and Popey. That was, by far, the best part about San Marcos.

I’ll save you all from reading a report on how my job is going. I still love my job, but nothing has really changed and the chaos still remains.

I’ve missed all of you and can’t wait to catch up!!! Merry CHRISTmas <3

My “Let’s go!” List

2011-10-20T19:59:00.002-05:00

One of my lovely bloggy friends, Becca, made a “to visit” list before getting her nursing education. While she wanted to be a nurse, she also wanted to travel, too. She decided that when she got done with nursing school, she was going to travel the world because that’s what she wanted to do. I must say, while reading her post this morning before class, I got the itch to travel. Like bad. At the very bottom of her post, she asked me and a bunch of our other bloggy friends to make their “to visit” lists, too. I guess I got a little excited and renamed it my “let’s go!” list. hehe

Making my “let’s go!” list was far from difficult. My dad instilled a love for traveling in my little brother and I at a young age, and that love has stayed with us. I made a similar list when I was younger, but have no idea where that list ended up, so I’m rewriting that list from memory.

In the United States:

Washington D.C.
~~New York City~~ Summer 2008 (I turned 16 in Times Square!)
~~Los Angeles, CA~~ Summer 2007
~~San Diego, CA~~ Summer 2007
Breckinridge, CO
~~Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL~~ Summer 2004 & Summer 2011
~~Walt Disneyland in Anaheim, CA~~ Summer 2003
~~Key West, FL~~ Summer 2004
Cape Cod, MA
~~Boston, MA~~ Summer 2010 (Saw the Dixie Chicks 4th row!)

Outside of the United States:

~~London, England~~ Christmas 2004
Paris, France
~~Italy- Anywhere would be totally fine!~~ Summer 2006 I spent 2 weeks there, traveled all over and loved every minute!!
Australia
Swiss Alps & Switzerland
Poland (I’m 1/2 Polish)
~~Caribbean Islands~~ I can’t even begin to tell you how many years I’ve been to the Caribbean. I’ve visited St. Thomas, St. Martin, the Bahamas, Grand Turk, and Belize. Definitely worth every penny!
New Zealand- My bloggy friend, Holly, lives and loves in New Zealand. She commented on this post and said I should add it to my list.....I didn't hesitate! Honestly, I would love to meet up with her and Becca there one day!!! It would be soooo fun!!!

That’s my list!! Any other places I should add? Ever been any of the places I want to go/have been?? Do tell…..

Thank you, lovely Becca, for the challenge :)))) xoxo

People in our lives/Craft/Puppy

2011-10-04T13:55:00.001-05:00

I’ve spent a lot of time these last few weeks pondering my gratefulness for people like the one pictured below. I think that we get so caught up in our daily lives that we do not often stop to think about the people that help make our lives fabulous. Since moving home, I’ve gotten to spend a fair amount of time with my baby brother, Brent. We were very close growing up, and though our relationship remained decent when I moved to college, it just was not the same as being here at home. Mind you, he is not the only person that puts a smile on my face everyday; I have lots of people in my life that do that. He is simply one. I am grateful for all of them.

I spent the better part of Sunday cleaning out my room. I’ve lived in the same house for ten years now and while my room has been cleaned out and redecorated many a time, no experience could possibly compare to this one. Nothing crawled out and bit me, no ceilings caved in, but I did realize something: I’ve changed a lot. I now choose to be friends with positive people. Yes, we all have “those days” where nothing seems to go our way and the world just seems to be one big raincloud. I get that. However, when you seem to be having one of “those days” everyday for the last 2.5 years that’s not healthy for me, nor is it healthy for you. I choose to take the flight method and bow out of that friendship. After further thought, I realized I mentally ended that raincloud several weeks ago but the true realization did not come until Sunday as I cleaned out my room.

On Sunday, I also spent some time outside working on this.

My mom got it for me on clearance at Hobby Lobby a while back for when my Grammy comes to stay. It holds her sleep apnea machine next to my bed. The legs were a hideous black color. I hated them. Because Sunday was such a gorgeous day here in Houston, I wanted badly to be outside. I borrowed my stepdad’s electric sander, sanded down the legs and painted them sky blue. I’m happy with the product!

In puppy news, I got my little fellow’s first official picture.

Though everyone in my life, on Twitter and on this blog pretty much voted for Scout, and I was in love with the name “Scout,” I chose to go with Murphy. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is my all time favorite book and I would like to save Scout for Murphy’s future sister and stay true to TKAM. Murphy gets to come home on November 8th. My family and I are soooo excited! He’ll be my dog since I’m funding him, so I got my mom an “I love my granddog” car magnet. Hahaha

I’ve ordered his dog tag and some matching Thanksgiving bandanas for Buster and Murphy. I’ve also purchased him a ton of things. Can you tell I’m excited?!?!

Stream of Consciousness

2011-09-27T09:26:00.001-05:00

When I tell you I’ve barely had time to breathe, that’s not exaggeration. Between school, work and what little “me” time I get, I’ve been overwhelmed. If I wasn’t, I don’t think I would know how to act.

We went to see my nieces and nephew (step-sister’s kids) before my nieces started school. I almost always take a group picture when I see them just to catalog their growth and mine because in all reality I’ve grown up right along side them.

This was this around the end of August.

This was in June 2007….my how we’ve changed.

Two weekends ago, we went to the Third Day concert. Words cannot express how amazing it was. Great night of fun, fellowship and worship.

L to R: My mom’s friend, Ms. Debi, My mom, me and Brent

Buster has been lonely. He doesn’t know how to act without Blue and that breaks my heart. After much thought, I’ve decided that I’m getting him a friend. I did lots of research and took many “what breed is right for you?” quizzes and have come to this conclusion:

Thank you, Google Images.

It’s a West Highland Terrier aka a Westie. I’m getting Buster a baby brother. He was born on September 13th and will be able to come home around November 8th. We’re soooo excited!!!

Like anything I have, the little fellow needs a name. Names in the running are:

1) Scout 2) Benjamin 3) Murphy 4) Camden

If you would like, please comment with your favorite name! I’d love to hear your opinions!!!

Hope all is well with you!!! I’ve missed all of you loads!!!

On fire

2011-09-08T09:37:00.004-05:00

Thank you, Google Images :)

If you haven't heard, Texas is on fire. Literally. Wildfires are blazing and consuming hundreds of thousands of acres. It's scary. They began so close to where I went to college last year. That's scary. They've moved across Texas to right outside where I currently live: in Houston. That's terrifying. So many people have lost their homes, their belongings and a few, even their lives. As of right now, I'm safe. I'm grateful.

I flew to Dallas this past weekend and on the plane ride back, I saw smoke. It took me a second, but I soon realized that I was flying over rural Austin. It was on fire. While I didn't particularly care for Austin, it made me so, so sad. The state I have lived in for all of my life and loved oh so much is on fire. Please, please be in prayer about Texas and the people of this great state.

Thank you!

First day of school- Sophomore year

2011-08-22T15:53:00.001-05:00

Today was my first day of my sophomore year of college. For those of you that may have missed it, I changed schools. I packed up all my things and moved home; once a Houstonian, always a Houstonian. I missed my city, my routine and my favorite shops. I missed my normalcy that can only be found in one spot: Houston.

Instead of going to main campus, I chose to go downtown. I didn’t even apply at main campus. I’m taking sixteen hours again this semester. Lord, help me. Here’s my schedule:

Mondays and Wednesdays

US History to 1877 10:00am-11:15am

Statistics 11:30am-12:45pm

Psychology 1:00pm-2:15pm

Tuesdays and Thursdays

Anatomy and Physiology (A&P) 10:00am-11:15am

American Literature after 1865 11:30am-12:45pm

A&P Lab 1:00pm-2:15pm

I only have 17 hours of nursing prerequisites left to finish before nursing school. My plan is to take my last history online over winter break so next semester will only be 14 hours. We’ll see how that goes.

Though my first class didn’t start until 10am, I left my house at 8:30am because I’d never really gone downtown by myself to visit the campus. I left my house this morning armed with a map I printed off of my college’s website and my GPS system and after 30 minutes of driving around, I finally figured everything out. I told myself I was not going to get frustrated or upset and just take deep breaths. I stopped and asked a campus police officer for help and it was all downhill from there :)

Hope everyone is doing amazing!!!

Seven Links {Thanks Christa!}

2011-08-12T08:14:00.011-05:00

This was supposed to be posted much earlier in the week, but I never finished it :(

One of my sweet

friends, Christa, tagged me in a challenge that is as she puts it "circulating the blogosphere." There are seven questions that I have to answer with seven links to blogs that I've posted. I'm so excited to get started :)

1) My most beautiful blog post

Graduation

In this moment, I was on top of the world. I have never felt more happiness or liberation than I did on that day. For me, that day defined "beautiful" and the smile on my face says it all.

2) My most popular blog post

{There was no picture on this one}

Denial

This post represented the beginning of the end ofmy high school experience. I was terrified and had been living in denial. My amazing readers (you!) rallied around me to tell me how proud you were of me for making it as far as I did and how awesome the future would be. The comments left on that post lifted me up and made me smile. They are comments I will never forget :)

3) My most controversial post

Casey Anthony: NOT GUILTY ON ALL COUNTS OF MURDER! AMEN!!!!

Though there weren't many comments on this post, I think this is probably the most controversial topic I have ever posted on. So many people had different opinions that I did, and America was in an uproar. It's died down some. The wrath this poor lady has felt from the public is uncalled for, regardless of whether she is truly not guilty.

4) My most helpful post

{No picture to go with this one either}

Speaking out of anger vs. Speaking out of love

In this post, I talked about something I had said to Jessica after just having enough. It was just a vent and reflection of what I had learned after the fact. I think many people identified with me and I was glad to see all the advice I received on it as well. I'm nowhere proud of what I said, but I am so proud of what I learned.

5) A post whose success surprised me

Happy Valentine's Day!

Landry made me this book and gave me this card for Valentine's Day. My heart was melted and I posted about it. This post got more comments that I thought it would for sure. That little girl and her big brother will always have my heart. I love them so much.

6) A post I didn't think got the attention it deserved

BlogSecret- THE SECRET IS HERE!

While I did not write this post at all, I feel bad for the person that did. I obviously do not know who wrote the post because it was a secret, but know I was constantly checking the person's blog with my post on it to see what kind of comments I received. I got quite a few comments and this poor person only got one :(

7) The post I am most proud of

Pronunciations/The FIRST EVER video on The Babblings of Mere

There is a video on the post if you follow the link. This was my very first vlog and while I haven't done one since then, I have every intention of doing another one soon. I was so excited for everyone that reads my blog to hear my voice and see my facial expressions.

Note: I want to redo my "About Me" section on my blog. What types of things should I put on there? What do YOU want to know??

Play in peace, Bluey

2011-07-27T18:22:00.002-05:00

Six days after Casey Anthony was found “not guilty,” my mom, our vet and I made one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. That decision is probably the biggest reason I haven’t blogged lately; I dreaded writing the post I am currently writing. My beloved playmate and favorite canine companion, Blue, was put to sleep and went to heaven to wait with Jesus until I get there on Monday, July 11, 2011 at approximately 5:45pm and five days before we traveled to Disney World. My mom and I took her to the vet for a 4:00pm appointment because she had stopped eating and was basically laying in her bed all the time. She also could no longer hold her bladder. After a few tests and a conversation with both the nurse and the vet, we decided her amazing quality of life had vanished right before our very eyes. We could no longer allow our sweet girl to go on like this because it simply was not fair to her. I have never cried so hard in my life. Never.

Bluey has been a part of my life since I was 6 years old. She got me through elementary, middle and high school as well as my first year of college. Each day when I came home from school, rehearsal or work, she greeted me at the door with her tail wagging and the biggest, bluest and happiest eyes a dog could ever have. I don’t ever recall a day that my precious baby was not at the door. Even when I was in college and would Skype with my mom, she would always put Bluey on the camera so I could talk to her and watch that tail wag. Mom even complained that when we finished skyping, she would walk down the hallway to my room looking for me, knowing she had just heard my voice. We were that close.

I still am in shock that she is gone. We had her cremated and her ashes are in a bag inside a wooden, engraved box with her name on it that the pet crematory sent back. My conscious mind knows she is gone but my subconscious mind simply believes she’s just on a mini-vacation. I got home from work a few nights ago and as I walked in I looked around and almost called out her name. Looking up, I saw the box that held her ashes and was instantaneously brought back to my new reality: she’s in heaven. It’s hell. I’m just so used to her being here with me and the fact that she isn’t just eats me up alive. I know I will see her again someday when I, too, get my wings, but the present is just so hard.

I was driving with one of my friends today. We were on our way back from shopping and my iPod was on “shuffle.” The song “One Moment More” by Mindy Smith came on. Somehow or another I wasn’t really listening to the music until these lyrics came on:

Oh, please don't go.
Let me have you just one moment more.
Oh, all I need,
all I want is just one moment more.
You've got to hold me and keep me,
tell me that someday you'll be returning,
and maybe,
maybe I'll believe.
It's just enough to see a shooting star,
to know you're never really far.
It's just enough to see a shooting star,
to know you're never really gone.

Luckily, I had my aviator sunglasses on so the friends I was with did not see the alligator tears that welled up in my eyes. It’s just so hard. Everyone keeps saying, “it’s just a dog” and/or “just go get another one.” The difficult part for me is the fact that they just don’t get it. Bluey was not just a dog. She was a member of my family and I adored her. We spent so much time together going on walks and playing in the living room. I can still see her rolling in the grass in our backyard as the sunshine beamed down on her or carrying around her “babies” (stuffed toys). She loved those “babies.”

In conclusion, I thank you if you’ve made it this far in a post that will {hopefully} help me in the healing process. Tomorrow will be the first birthday I spend without waking up to her. I suppose this year will hold a lot of “first” holidays without her. She appeared in many a Christmas card both with Brent and I by herself and later when we added our Buster to the family. She is missed. Play in peace, my Bluey.

One of our first pictures together

Bluey in her bed

Our very last picture together

Casey Anthony: NOT GUILTY ON ALL COUNTS OF MURDER! AMEN!!!!

2011-07-05T13:58:00.001-05:00

If you’ve been watching my Twitter as of late, you will see that I wholeheartedly believe that Casey Anthony is not guilty on all counts of murder. There is no way that Casey killed her baby, Caylee. She is not responsible.

My mom and I have watched this trial faithfully everyday since it started. I have known since Caylee went missing in my heart that Casey was not responsible. She was set up and I believe that deep in my bones.

I, along with many others around the world, rejoice as Casey’s life was saved and the quest to get justice for Caylee continues.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, Casey Anthony, as you return to a normal life and may your precious baby girl rest in peace as justice is served on her behalf to the individual that took her life far too soon.

Summertime and July

2011-07-01T23:22:00.001-05:00

Exactly 27 days from today, I will be turning 19 and enjoying my last year as a teenager. July is my favorite month of the year not only because it is the month that marks my grand entrance into this world but because it just screams "summer!" To be able to see "July" on a calendar just makes me a happy girl!

I have kept busy working at my store (no more helping at another store) and enjoying summer activities such as canning tomatoes with my Grammy, helping my Uncle Alan build his property entrance, working in the garden at my Grammy and Popey's and swimming with my friends. Summer activities such as swimming, working in a garden and grilling appeal to me far more than skiing , watching a movie or making something in the crock pot. Though the Texas heat seems to be unbearable at times, I find nothing more comforting than getting in the car after shopping or hanging out with friends and just cranking up that A/C to as low as the temperature gauge goes and as high as the fan will blow. That feeling of cooling down is irreplaceable.

Last week on Wednesday, I surprised my grandparents by appearing at their door at approximately 10:00am. I called my Grammy and pretended like I was on my way to work. She totally bought my story because I call her every day on my way to work or wherever I happen to be off to. Little did she know, I was actually right down the road. The look on her face is one I wish I could’ve captured on film or at least my Nikon. Priceless. She was shocked I pulled it off because I tell her everything (almost!).

I helped her mow the lawn. She did part of it and I finished it off.

Our beloved Bella is pictured below. She is one of the sweetest dogs I have ever met besides my Buster and Bluey.

I helped my Uncle Alan put up boards for his entrance two mornings in a row. He works the night shift as a nurse and came in to work on it after work. After a 12 hour shift, I would have been exhausted but he was more than enthusiastic. I admire him for that.

My cousin, Anthony, requested that I make him a peach cobbler and have it ready by the time he got home from work the next day. He was probably only kidding but I made it for him anyway. I didn’t taste it but he was so happy and enjoyed every morsel!

We officially have tomatoes and summer veggies growing out of our ears. We have 10-15 tomato plants that are huge and continue to produce tomato after tomato. I almost feel as if it will never end! Grammy has been canning like crazy but had only just begun when I arrived! After helping her year after year, I decided this year would be no different.

Homemade ice cream is one of my favorite treats but I rarely eat it because it’s not the healthiest. Grammy and I were both craving it, so we broke down and made some together. How delicious it was!

I returned back to Houston from my Grammy and Popey’s this past Saturday. I enjoyed a week full of work and playtime with friends. I spent the night last night with some friends and came home this afternoon. I wasn’t home more than thirty minutes when our doorbell rang. After begging her all week, she came and surprised me for the fourth of July.

All is right with the world again; my Grammy is here :)

Memorial Day and other news

2011-06-15T21:30:00.001-05:00

I went to Dallas for Memorial Day weekend. I had been planning it for a while and requested the weekend off when I transferred back to Houston with both school and Gymboree. We had a reunion at my Aunt Merrilee’s house (she’s my dad’s mom’s sister aka my grandmother’s sister). I don’t really care for my dad’s mother aka my grandmother, but I adore her sisters and their families. She is one of six girls and the second oldest. She can be seen in the last picture with red hair. I had an amazing time filled with lots of prayer and wholesome fun! I haven’t seen them in three years but in all honesty it was like I had been with them the entire time; we just picked up where we left off.

Since I have come back to Houston almost a month ago, I have been in the store I actually belong to all of 4 times and have been helping out a store 45 minutes from my house. I have been working 8 and 9 hour days and 40+ hour weeks. I haven’t had much of a summer but that will all be changing starting Monday. I’ll be back in my own store which is all of 10-15 minutes from my house. Hopefully I will be back on here more as well. Love you all xoxo

What’s been going on these last few weeks

2011-05-14T22:43:00.001-05:00

This post is picture heavy…fair warning!

After Easter came the last day of classes [May 2], dead day (the day you don’t do ANYTHING before finals) [May 3], and then finals started [May 5]. I stayed at my Grammy’s house from my last day at Barton Creek [I’m transferring to the Galleria here in Houston but my last day at BC was May 7] to the day before my last final [May 10]. My mom and stepdad came to move me out of my dorm along with my Uncle Alan.

While at Grammy’s, I relaxed a lot and just took everything in, so to speak.

Uncle Mark cooked his delicious barbeque chicken. I loved it!

Popey and I also worked in the garden. We picked peaches together and then I picked green beans by myself because Popey can’t really bend like that anymore.

I helped Grammy in the kitchen and Uncle Mark was being a goofball :p

My roommate and I moved out of our dorm room. Here we are in front of our door. Room 128= Procrastination Station :)

Popey and his big sister Aunt Helen after Aunt Helen’s daughter’s funeral. Aunt Helen’s daughter was 49 and died at 7am on Mother’s Day. She left behind a sister, fiancée, son and mother along with countless aunts, uncles and cousins. It wasn’t totally unexpected and while I wasn’t close to her, those in my family that were are pretty devastated. :( Her funeral was this past Thursday.

Today, I went skeet shooting with my dad and his men’s group from church. I don’t do a whole heck of a lot with him for a number of reasons but I do love him and am making more of an effort to have a relationship with him. I don’t want to look down at him in a casket one day and regret not having a better relationship with him and wondering what could be with us. He’s in the Hawaiian looking shirt and baseball cap. We had a blast; he shot a 12g and I a 20g. My shoulder is sore from the “kick” and I’m sunburned compliments of my foolish decision not to wear sunscreen but oh well!

After we shot, we went to have BBQ and on our way out of the parking lot to the BBQ place we saw this bird under the tree. It was sort of camouflage but pretty nonetheless.

I sincerely apologize for my gap between posts and hope you’ll forgive me! On the bright side, grades come out officially on Monday. OH THE WAIT!! [I’m not too worried :p }

Easter 2011

2011-04-27T08:38:00.002-05:00

Yes, I still get Easter baskets. My mom asked me the other day how long she would have to make me an Easter basket. I replied, “as long as the Easter bunny is still alive.” {Is that a bad thing?!} While I love celebrating the resurrection of our Savior, I look forward to receiving my Easter basket every year.

Below is my mom (#3) with her siblings. They’re missing my Uncle Mark. My mom is in the orange, my aunt (the oldest) is in Lavender and my Uncle Alan is in the plaid (#2). It was nice to see them all together and the relationships they share. Their relationships are so similar to yet so different to that of Brent and I. {Yes, Brent stayed home :( }

I treasure every moment I get to spend with Popey. I’m honestly dreading the day I loose my grandparents. While I hope it’s not for a long time, I do feel like Popey’s time with us is drawing to a close. He is just worn out. I know I should be grateful I am as close to my grandparents as I am and that I’ve had them far longer than a lot of my friends, but the selfish part of me wants to keep them forever. They’re so much a part of my life because they basically helped my mom raise me. They are always there for everything and I simply adore them. Dear Lord, please give me more time with them. Amen.

Hope y’all had an amazing Easter!!

Speaking out of anger vs. Speaking out of love

2011-04-20T14:51:00.001-05:00

I don’t usually struggle with speaking out of anger. I’m not that person but I did have a not-so-nice run in with speaking out of anger on Sunday evening. I’ll preface my experience with this:

Someone once told me that the word “anger” is usually code for another emotion such as fear, hurt, sadness or betrayal. When we speak out of anger, it isn’t actually anger that is coming out, but instead another emotion or mix of emotions. The word anger hides what you don’t want to explain or simply don’t have words to because you’re experiencing a ton of other emotions all at once and the rush of those is overwhelming. When such emotions come into play, we can hurt those people around us by taking those emotions out on them, regardless of whether or not that person has anything to do with what’s going on in our lives. With that said, when we take out our so-called “anger” on others, the fireworks begin to go off because not only are we thinking about and revealing the chaos of what’s going on in our hearts, but we are hurting someone else in the process.

Sunday evening was pretty much the eruption point in a volcano that was doomed to go off at any moment. When I finally made my Houston decision on Thursday and actually called my current District Manager to request a transfer back to a Houston store, my heart sank at the finality of everything. I made a decision and had to stick with it. That’s a rare occasion for me. In the dictionary, next to the word “indecisive," you should find my picture. I’m the queen of not being able to make “big” decisions. Needless to say, I was drowning in emotions. I did not want to change schools again; I had just gotten used to being here. I did not want to tell my friends and family that live near my current college that I was leaving; I hate disappointing people. I was on the verge of a mental breakdown compliments of fear. Because Jessica lives 2 floors up from me and because she’s been my “best friend” since high school, I called her so I could “vent” my fear and tell her I was going back to Houston; I just needed someone that was standing right in front of me to tell me that everything was going to be okay versus having my mom on the phone with me 200 miles away. She didn’t answer but texted me a few minutes later. We sent a series of texts back and forth. I was clearly in distress and she was clearly preoccupied with something else (i.e. the concert she was apparently at). Long story short, she ended up saying that she did not understand why I was so upset and condemned me for even wanting to back to Houston because she was going back. Apparently, Houston isn’t big enough for the two of us?!?! [The week before she was a blubbering mess about school overwhelming her and I spent every night up late trying to help her figure things out] I told her I just needed to talk and she said she could “give a shit less” because this was “what I wanted all along.” She also went on to say that I chose to be there for her the week before and she did not ask me to be. Lie. {What are you supposed to do when someone calls you crying so hard you can’t understand them??} This was all over text and she sent the last text. After I read those ugly words, I was so taken back. I had been there for her and why wasn’t she there for me? I chose not to text back. This was Thursday.

Friday and Saturday go by. I used the space I’d given myself by not texting back and opening another can of worms to cool off and regroup. I made a decision and was sticking with it.

Sunday evening I was studying with one of our mutual friends, Noelle, for our chemistry test. Noelle’s phone rings and it’s Jessica. She has a question for another class that we’re all three in. Noelle answers the question and Jessica asks what Noelle’s doing. Noelle tells her she’s studying for chemistry and then Jessica asks if I’m there too. Noelle tells her that I am and Jessica says, “tell her I said ‘hi’.” Noelle relays the message and I look up without saying a word. I did not want to start anything and felt silence would be the best response. Noelle tells her I didn’t say anything. Jessica then proceeds to apologize for being rude and inconsiderate on Thursday but says I was “just trying to get attention and wasn’t really upset.” At that point, Noelle hands me the phone. I told her that she didn’t get to tell me what I was feeling.I’m the only one that can decide how I feel. Not her choice. She then goes into how she didn’t want me to be there when she was having her panic attack over school. I stopped her right there and said that that was what good friends were supposed to do. She said I needed to get over myself and that I was “copying her" by going back to Houston. {What are we in?? KINDERGARTEN? It’s a free country and I am a big girl! I put in my application for UH in FEBRUARY for crying out loud!!} I’m not sure what came over me but I then said, “fuck you. You’re a selfish bitch” and hung up the phone on her. After I did it, I was proud of myself. I finally stood up for myself, which is also a rarity these days.

After about 10 minutes of harping on my new found backbone, I realized that what I said and did was ugly. I spoke out of anger. I never talk to people like that; that’s just not me. I guess I’d just had enough of Jessica only being my “best friend” when it was convenient for her and I honestly felt she was just apologizing because she wanted help on her big research paper that is due this week that she hasn’t even started. When something goes wrong in our friendship, it’s always blamed on me, regardless of whether or not I messed up. I don’t think friendships should be like that; not one of my other friendships is. Part of growing up is being able to admit when you’ve messed up and I guess not everyone learns that at the same age. I wasn’t acting like the Christian I am when I said those terrible words and hung up the phone. I should’ve thoughtfully listened and replied with kinder words because that’s what you do when you speak out of love. It doesn’t matter how upset you are or what’s been done to wrong you. Thoughtful responses make for more productive conversations. Always speak out of love. When we speak out of love, we focus on helping others and building them up.

Lesson learned.

P.S. Thank you for hanging in there this long :)

Houston May 11

2011-04-17T19:17:00.001-05:00

I’ll be Houston bound on Wednesday, May 11. It’s the day of my last final and I have to be out of my dorm by May 12. I finally made a decision on Thursday that I hope I will be much happier with than staying “here.” I’m not just going back to Houston for the summer; I’m going back for good.

After many candid conversations about life and school with all sorts of people in my life, I decided that moving back to my favorite city would be the best option for me. Not only will I have my familiar territory back, but it will not be 60 miles round trip just to go to work. I’ll have back my conveniences such as La Madeline, Whole Foods, Borders/Barnes and Nobles. None of the places I know and love will be a long drive and for that I am so excited.

I would have ended up back in Houston anyway eventually. The plan was to stay in San Marcos for two years, then go to nursing school in Houston. Because I’m not head over heels for San Marcos because it lacks such modern conveniences and because work is so far away, Houston seemed like the place I needed to head back to. San Marcos is wonderful to visit, but not a great place to live, at least for me. Are there college students that absolutely adore it? Yes, of course. There’s just not a whole heck of a lot to do here. You can either shop at the outlets, float the river or “party.” That’s it. The first two options are fun for a while and the third option isn’t even an option for me. I just don’t enjoy it and quite frankly, don’t see why anyone does.

The silver lining to all of this is that I’ll be back with my mom and little brother. I’ll get to see most of my best friends on a regular basis and my life will go back to normal. I feel as though I’ve been on an “educational vacation.” As in, I’ve been going to school and living my life, just not at “home.” This year has flown by and I’m not sad to leave freshman year behind me one bit. I just wish May 11 would come sooner.

Houston Love

2011-04-09T22:11:00.001-05:00

The weekend I went to Houston and got Paddington, I got to spend some time with some of my favorite people. I have known Adrienne and Ade’s (the kids above) parents since before they even got married. I love them. Their dad, Roy, takes all of our pictures, too. My mom attended their parents wedding as Brent and I were with our dad that weekend. We also visited the kids as babies when they were born at the hospital. The point to my babbling is that they are family. They have watched us grow up as we have their kids. We met through church and have been inseparable since. Regardless of what I am going to Houston for, seeing Annie, Roy, Adrienne and Ade is a priority when I go to church. After church, we always go to lunch together. I treasure those afternoons more than anything and look forward to going to Houston simply because of them. I adore them.

The last two pictures are of my Grammy’s pineapple upside down cake and my reaction to it. It was scrumptious. I went to visit them on Thursday the 31st. We ate chalupas and I helped Popey in the garden. Talk about a relaxing afternoon and evening. Grey’s Anatomy came up after supper. It was the musical episode and let me tell you: I sat on pins and needles. I experienced so many emotions in one episode; I felt as if I was on an emotional roller coaster. It was bad. I liked the musical part for the most part; I just felt it to be out of place on a medical show, if ya know what I mean!

I sincerely apologize for my absence. School has had me so overloaded and then adding 35 hours a week at work on top of that has barely given me time to sleep. We lost 2 out of 4 (I am one of the two still left) managers at my store so I’m working too much. That will all change soon enough…..stay tuned!

Introducing Paddington the Prius

2011-03-28T21:32:00.001-06:00

Those of you that saw my “Name that Car” post are looking at this title like, “What’s going on??” The moment I laid eyes on my new Prius, I just knew it was not a girl. It just looked like a boy to me. After a few minutes of searching a baby names website, I came up with Paddington the Prius. I was not into Paddington Bear growing up, though that sweet bear did come to mind a little later in the day. To me, Paddington is a sophisticated name and for a car with as much technology as this sweet thing has, it totally fits.

I had tears in my eyes as I left my beloved Tucker at the dealership, but am doing much better now. It’s always hard to leave something behind, I guess.

This is Paddington in the parking lot of Pappasito’s in Houston yesterday evening shortly before I drove back to college.

Though I have not taken a picture of the inside of my actual car, it looks identical to this.

That top computer screen shows me whether or not Paddington is running off of battery power or gasoline. It also shows my MPG as I drive and has a diagram of how power is flowing. My car also has hands-free Bluetooth and XM Satellite Radio. Driving as many places as I do, I am grateful for the satellite radio because now I don’t have to scroll through random FM stations to find something to listen to. I am also notorious for talking on the phone and driving at the same time with a headset, so with Bluetooth I no longer have to worry about that darn headset. Because I am always cold, my mom upgraded me to leather seats with seat heaters. She thinks those will be the first thing we’ll have to repair because they’ll get so much use! I use seat heaters in both summer and winter. My lack of body heat is a problem in all seasons. ha

This week will be really chaotic for me with two papers due and two quizzes. I keep repeating to myself, “I’m too blessed to be stressed!” Let’s just hope this gets me through the week!

Happy Monday :)

Name that car!

2011-03-24T12:00:00.000-06:00

This gorgeous car will be mine come this weekend! I currently drive a 2009 Toyota Rav4, but actually wanted a Prius and not a Rav4 originally. I ended up getting a Rav4 because my mom said I would be hauling a lot of stuff with college and everything. My Rav4 gets a whopping 26 miles per gallon if I'm lucky. Not only does the Prius get great gas mileage (51mpg), but it also helps the environment because it's a hybrid. As much as I drive, my mom finally made the decision last week that I needed something more cost effective which lands me here...with a 2011 Toyota Prius. It will be Winter Gray Metallic. I'm super excited!! The only downside is that I have to trade in Tucker the Toyota Rav4 and I'm pretty sure when all of my IRL friends are going to call me a "spoiled brat" when they see it because that's just the way they are. Below is Tucker's twin so you know what he looks like. (I don't have a good picture of my boy)

So as I did with Heloise, I'm asking for your help in choosing a name for my new baby! Think, "_____ the Prius!" Cast your vote below :) Thanks in advance!!! xo

Votes so far: 0

4

2011-03-21T07:30:00.000-06:00

Today, my blog turns FOUR!! A few weeks ago I was typing out a blog post and I thought, "when did I start doing this?!" I then went back through my archives and found that on Wednesday, March 21, 2007 I began blogging. I was a freshman in high school. If you look at that first post, you can tell things have definitely changed with me. I cannot believe I've kept at this for so long because I'm pretty sure my mother told me I was going through a "phase!"

I was tempted to post a video for this, but time has gotten away from me.

Here's what I've learned over the last 4 years....

1) People can help you or hurt you. Bottom line. There are those out there that have the best and biggest hearts and those that are positive people that contribute nothing but good things to our lives. Then you have those that are ugly inside and want to bring you down. Those are the people we should stay far, far away from. They're not beneficial at all!

2) Life is full of choices and decisions. Some are small and do not require a lot of thought. The big ones test you and make you really contemplate. They require careful consideration and quite frankly, scare the $hit out of me! Those big ones are the things I take to my knees for and pray about. He helps the most.

3) Figuring out what you're most passionate about and running with it helps you enjoy life more. Doing things you don't enjoy will only make you miserable. Period.

4) Going "through the motions" and not really living is not something I want to say I did. When I get up to those pearly white gates in heaven some day, I want to be able to look back and say, "WOW, that was quite a ride!" I don't want to have a single regret.

To my readers- both old and new:

Thank you so much for reading and commenting. Whether you left me encouragement, advice or a simple "hello," I just want you to know how much you are loved and appreciated. I could not have gotten through these last four years without you

P.S. In the comments, please tell me what you'd like to see me talk about or do on here! What would totally ROCK your world?!

A short explanation of my absence

2011-03-19T22:02:00.001-06:00

For the record, I have been a very busy spring breaker. I said "hello" to my favorite hometown of Houston, TX last Thursday to see and enjoy my mom and brother. It was a total shock to them. I just walked in to the theatrical venue in which my brother was performing on Thursday shortly before he performed and sat down next to my mom. You'd have thought she was watching a goose lay a golden egg; she was that shocked to see me. I skipped class and got out of working for Friday just to see the look on her face. She's usually the one doing the surprising. I just love her. My detailed Spring Break post will have to wait only because I'm posting to my blog off of a blogging iPhone app and can't do as much as I would like to. However, I would LOVE for you to hop on over to Becca's blog and see my guest post on on her blog :) leave a comment and tell me what you think!!

Trip to SA

2011-03-07T14:48:00.001-06:00

Last Thursday, Jessica and I went to San Antonio. I was going to have movie night with Luc and Landry because I promised them I would the weekend before when I planted onions with Landry. Jessica was going to see her friends at UTSA. We decided to ride together in my car and she was going to drop me off, ride to her friends and then come pick me back up. When we got there, we took the below pictures because Jessica has an obsession with my camera. I feel so plain and underdressed in these pictures compared to her, but oh well!

Though I go see Luc and Landry all the time, it was fun to have someone riding in the car with me to provide more entertainment than my radio could. Jessica has been one of my best friends since high school, but having her here at college with me has been a lifesaver.

I forgot to take pictures of movie night but we watched Flushed Away. It was super cute and the kids were glued to the television.

In other news, I have been busy writing essays while studying for quizzes and tests like crazy. Never a dull moment! Talk soon :)

February’s Over Today

2011-02-28T12:55:00.001-06:00

I cannot believe that today is the last day of February. Where has this semester gone? It seems like just yesterday I was talking about the beginning of the semester, classes I was taking and Popey’s 80th birthday bash. I guess time flies when you’re having fun!

This past weekend my mom and stepdad came in town for the day just to change the registration sticker on my Rav 4. I’m not a good person to hand a sharp object to at all. When I was about 11, I was using a razor blade to open a Bopit game for my brother and I to play. The razor blade slipped and got the side of my thumb pretty bad. I was bleeding everywhere and eventually passed out at the sight of my own blood. (I can see other people’s blood, just not mine) My little brother called my mom and she thought nothing of it because she’s one of those mothers that never, ever panics. When she saw the extent of my cut and my sheet-white face, we went to the emergency room for stitches. Needless to say, I’m not allowed to use sharp objects and their 3 hour sticker changing trip was worth the money saved for an emergency room trip :)

My parents actually spent the day with me. It was so nice to be out of my dorm room on a Saturday actually enjoying the day before work. After they picked me up, we traveled the 14 miles down the road to Gruene, Texas (pronounced like green) to eat at the Gristmill. It was delicious! I haven’t eaten there since I was 12 and really don’t remember much about eating there except that it was summer, and we ate outside. It was so nice not to eat cafeteria food, let me tell you!

The top two are the different views outside our table balcony and the bottom is my mom, me and my stepdad at lunch. My little brother had to work that afternoon, so he stayed in Houston.

They left shortly after 3pm because I had to be at work by 5 and my usual, short route to work was closed. I found a detour that took me 30 minutes longer to get there, but at least I got there, right?!

The next morning I went to Grammy and Popey’s to spend the day with them. I had two weeks worth of laundry to do (or actually have done because Grammy still does my laundry…shhh!!) Little did I know, I was in for a treat! They surprised me by taking me out to a local steak restaurant because I made a comment a few weeks earlier about not having had a steak since I’ve been at college. When I got there, Grammy told me to load Luc, Landry and Popey in the car. (We were watching Luc and Landry for the day because Uncle Mark and Aunt Liz were playing golf) I drove all of us to the restaurant a few miles up the road and enjoyed every minute of it. It was the same restaurant we celebrated Popey’s 70th birthday at 10 years earlier. Luc and Landry weren’t married into our family yet and Uncle Mark was still married to Anthony and Alyssa’s mom, Aunt Michele.

When we got home from the restaurant, Grammy and I sorted my laundry and got it started. I had a bunch of washing to do! She finished up my laundry for me and Popey, Landry and I proceeded to go out to the garden and plant onions. The first four pictures are of Landry and pregarden. The last few pictures are of Popey and I planting (compliments of Landry).

The town where I ate lunch with my mom and stepdad is shown in one of my favorite commercials played over the Superbowl this year. It’s sort of a silly commercial from a grocery store here in Texas but it does a great job of showcasing our state!

Happy Monday :)

Pronunciations/The FIRST EVER video on The Babblings of Mere

2011-02-23T22:00:00.001-06:00

I was reading blogs for a second tonight and I saw this thing Becca posted that was super cool! In the video below, you’ll see how I pronounce things. If you’ve been around here long, you know I’m from Texas <3 Becca is from the UK and definitely says things differently than I do. Hop on over to her blog and compare our pronunciations :)

Words
Aunt, Route, Wash, Oil, Theater, Iron, Salmon, Caramel, Fire, Water, Sure, Data, Ruin, Crayon, Toilet, New Orleans, Pecan, Both, Again, Probably, Spitting image, Alabama, Lawyer, Coupon, Mayonnaise, Syrup, Pajamas, Caught.

Questions
What is it called when you throw toilet paper on a house?
What is the bug that when you touch it, it curls into a ball?
What is the bubbly carbonated drink called?
What do you call gym shoes?
What do you say to address a group of people?
What do you call the kind of spider that has an oval-shaped body and extremely long legs?
What do you call your grandparents?
What do you call the wheeled contraption in which you carry groceries at the supermarket?
What do you call it when rain falls while the sun is shining?
What is the thing you change the TV channel with?

I’d love to see how you pronounce things….take a stab at this!

Procrastination

2011-02-20T21:45:00.001-06:00

My current Facebook status says, “Procrastination Station is located in Butler #128 just FYI.”

I do not want to study tonight. No sir. I just wish I could be carefree for a few weeks away from school and work. If I could drive home to Houston right this second and spend time with my mom without any worries, I’d do it in half of a heartbeat. I just need a mental break. That’s all. Is that too much to ask?

My heart has been heavy as of late. Prayer is constantly leaving my lips for the hurting people I have in my life. I have a lot of those sorts of people around me right now. It makes me want to just drop everything and go help them. The hard part is I can’t. It’s not possible. Between my 16 semester hours and my j-o-b I can do nothing. Actually there is one thing I can do and do well: pray. I’ve been doing just that all week.

As any seasoned college student knows, 16 semester hours is a lot for anyone. I’m enjoying the challenge because all of those hours are making me take school more seriously and put my j-o-b on the backburner for a while. I needed to do that and get my priorities straight. I’ve done well in my classes thus far and even made an “A” on my first chemistry test last Tuesday. Boy was I excited! It took a lot of effort on my part, but I’m willing to put forth that effort for rewards like that. Nothing feels better than seeing you hard work pay off academically.

I’m still contemplating whether or not to stay at this school next year or go home to Houston. My mind changes daily, so I’m praying God gives me a sign or peace with a decision soon.

In lieu of studying and following my procrastination theme, I’ve updated my playlist for your listening pleasure. Turn up the volume :)

Tuesday :)

2011-02-17T15:33:00.001-06:00

On Tuesday, my mom, Grammy and Uncle Alan came to visit me. They picked me up after my last class at 2pm and we went and had a late lunch. Though lunch was delicious, I enjoyed seeing them even more. I see Grammy and Uncle Alan (mom’s older brother) all the time, but it was so good to see my mom. I’ve missed her.Below are the pictures we took after lunch: our three generations and then me with Uncle Alan.

I was sad to see them go, but I’ll see them soon I’m sure :)

Happy Valentine’s Day!

2011-02-14T13:14:00.001-06:00

While I got several things for Valentine’s Day this year, this present touched my heart the most. Luc and Landry were at their dad’s this past weekend and my best assumption is that he let them pick out Valentine’s Day cards for everyone at the store. When she handed me the card out of her backpack last night, I was already touched she thought enough of me to get me a card. She got one for her mom, my Uncle Mark (her stepdad) and me. I didn’t know I ranked that high with her! I told her I was going to wait until today (Valentine’s Day) to open it and she said that was fine with her.

When I got back from my classes today, my roommate and I both decided to open our cards we’d accumulated. I opened Landry’s first and almost lost it.

The book reads:

Front: Be Mine, Valentine! To: Miss Meredith From: Landry

Page 1: Mice love cheese

Page 2: Cookies love milk

Page 3: Apples love trees

Page 4: Bees love honey

Page 5: A sock loves a shoe

Page 6: But not as much as I LOVE YOU!

The card says:

My life just wouldn’t be the same without you in it….You’re a part of so many of my happiest memories. I hope you know how special you will always be to me. Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you Landry

I contained my tears because I didn’t want to ruin my makeup, but that just melted my heart. I love that kid.

Valentine’s Day has never been a holiday that reminds me I have a boyfriend and I have my mom to thank for that. She’s made it a holiday to remind me how much she loves me and of course, I’ve reciprocated. Today, I’m making it a holiday to remind those in my life how much I love them. Yes my dear blog friends, this means you too! Though I’ve never met any of you face to face, you do mean the world to me. My heart skips a beat every time I get an e-mail saying one of you have left me a comment. I’m always so interested to see what you have to say, whether it be a simple line of encouragement or a paragraph with some good advice….I love them all! Thank you for being a part of my life for the last (almost) 4 years. You rock my world <3

This

2011-02-13T23:01:00.001-06:00

This past week was been really stressful compliments of this.

This is what I woke up to last (not the 11th but the 4th) Friday morning. It caused classes to be cancelled for 2.5 days. While I enjoyed my time off, I am not enjoying the consequences of that time off. Because of days off from school, I have had 4 quizzes, a test and 2 papers due this past week, which makes for a very stressed out college student.

On the flip side, it was nice to see snow in South Texas. My beloved, Houston, just got ice. BE JEALOUS FELLOW HOUSTONIANS!!!

My roommate also taught me to crochet through this snowy mess and I love doing it! It keeps my brain engaged in something but it’s not stressful like everything else in college seems to be right now. My step-sister has been helping me perfect my crocheting via text and picture messaging. Gotta love technology!

I need to figure out more methods of stress relief. Everything seems to be like a juggling act lately and by that I mean if it’s not something for one class, it’s an assignment for another. I’m trying so hard to stay afloat and not drown in this mess.

I’ve been leaning a lot on God. I’ve been praying about everything instead of having panic attacks and He always seems to catch me in his net of comfort. He whispers, “I’ve got you, Mere. Everything’s going to work out.” *deep breath* and it does :)

In other news…..

I had a great time participating in BlogSecret 2011 with Holly on Saturday! If you haven’t already seen the posts, go check out her fabulous blog and catch up on them!

I’m ready for these warm temperatures to hit starting tomorrow. Who’s with me on that one?!

BlogSecret-THE SECRET IS HERE!

2011-02-12T08:00:00.003-06:00

My lovely friend Holly over at The Adventures of Holly is hosting:

As a blogsecret participant, I e-mailed my secret to Holly and it will be appearing on another blog with no connection to me. I also get the honor of posting someone else's secret here on my blog. The quoted post is not my secret, but rather someone else's. I have no idea who's secret this is, but they do know their secret is appearing on my blog. In turn, I know where my secret is appearing as well. I can't share because it wouldn't be a secret anymore :)

"I used to have terrible insomnia as a child. It would literally take me hours to fall asleep. Some nights I would just sit in my bed and cry. It was pretty terrible. I counted sheep, I memorized the alphabet in reverse, the names of the seven dwarfs... I had a lot of boring nights.

Then my mom told me I should try making up stories. At first I thought it was a really stupid idea, but then I realized I already made up stories when I was awake. I had many imaginary friends, characters really, that I filmed imaginary TV shows with. I really wanted to be an actress. I always knew they weren't real though. My stuffed animals had feelings, but my imaginary friends were just to keep me company.

I was a witch with magical powers. I used to hang out with the gang from Saved By the Bell a lot. Oh did I have a crush on Mark Paul Gosselaar. I imagined we could communicate telepathically so I wouldn't look silly talking to myself. These fantasies became by bedtime stories.

As I grew up, Mark was replaced by my crush of the week and the stories became more sophisticated. This went on until I had my first boyfriend. After dating a real guy, I didn't want to go on imaginary dates with my imaginary boyfriends anymore. He became the subject of my bedtime stories, until we broke up. Then I was really confused. I didn't want an imaginary boyfriend, I wanted a real boyfriend. It made me depressed. I wasn't upset over losing this guy, I was upset over losing my friends. When the only thing you have to help you sleep is taken away like that, it's tough.

Eventually, I started making up stories again, but it wasn't quite the same. Soon after, I met my next boyfriend who has had a staring role in all of my adventures every since. Mostly Sci-Fi oriented. There are certain actors who make appearances every once in a while too ;)

I remember an episode of Growing Pains that freaked the hell out of me when I was a kid. The parents were talking about their kid's imaginary friend and then about the ones they had. The dad then turns and speaks to his imaginary friend, as a joke. The whole scene made me very uncomfortable. I'm not sure if it was the revealing of something very personal that made me upset or the realization that one day, I wouldn't have imaginary friends anymore. I was always afraid of growing up.

I don't have imaginary friends like I did when I was a child, but I still have my stories that put me to sleep every night.

Am I the only one?"

Should I stay or should I go?

2011-01-31T12:34:00.001-06:00

I am absolutely sick to death of the college I attend right now. I am 95% sure I will not be here next year. I have tried and tried to keep a positive attitude about it but I just can no longer do that. It’s becoming painful.

Exhibit A: I was walking back from class today and Jessica stops me before I even walk in the building. She says, “Meredith, you have a ticket on your car!” I was in shock. At first, I thought she was kidding with me just to get a reaction. When I walked over to my car, I almost puked. It’s a ticket from parking services here at my university to tell me my handicapped pass doesn’t match my parking permit information issued by the university aka the handicapped pass I was using wasn’t mine. No bueno and the fine was $100. I am not one to dishonestly use a handicap sticker. I think that is wrong. It’s my mom’s pass and it was issued to her because she has rheumatoid arthritis. I have it with me for when she rides with me and never use it when I’m not with her. Lately though, I have been using it per my mom’s instruction. You see, there is no parking whatsoever by my dorm. There are about 75 spots for a building with 400 residents because of the construction going on. Are they going to replace the out-of-commission parking spaces? No. They’re gone forever. You seriously have to get lucky to find a parking space here. The next closest parking lot is 2 blocks up the road. Coming home late at night from Gymboree, there are rarely any spots. I called my mom frantic one night last week because there were no spots to be found. She said for me to go ahead and start using her handicapped sticker so I wouldn’t have to worry about it. Now that I’ve received this ticket, I don’t know how I’ll find parking. Lord help me.

Exhibit B: In each dorm room, we can only control the fan on our A/C and not the temperature. If it blew the correct temperature according to the season or even decided to work anywhere near properly at all, my roommate and I would be happy. For the entire year, we have had major issues with this. It blew heat in the Summer and had blown cool air throughout the winter. We’ve been using a fan and a heater all year to keep us halfway sane. It’s not just us; everyone’s is like that. Why do we pay as much as we do for on campus housing for nothing?!

Exhibit C: On campus dining=dog food. We are required to purchase a $250 meal plan every semester for our first 2 years. Last semester I used about 50 meal trades out of the 150 meal trades originally given. It wasn’t worth me eating just to eat and gagging 70% of the time. I ate what was in front of me because I had to eat. Simple as that. It’s just not worth it.

Exhibit D: I drive 60 miles roundtrip 5 days/week for work. That’s a lot of mileage on my poor Rav4 and a lot of gasoline to buy. The Gymboree by my dorm doesn’t have management openings so I can’t transfer. Blah.

Exhibit E: I just miss Houston. Period. It’s such a wonderful city and I feel so blessed that I got to grow up there. I cry every time I leave not just because I will miss my mom but also because I just love that city.

Exhibit F: I’m going to nursing school in Houston after I finish my prerequisites anyway.

Sorry that was such a long vent. Thank you for staying with me if you made it this far. HAPPY MONDAY :)

Popey’s 80th Birthday Pictures

2011-01-24T12:44:00.001-06:00

Our impromptu photo shoot—All 4 grandkids

L to R: Anthony #1, Meredith #3, Brent #4, Alyssa #2 (Anthony and Alyssa are brother and sister)

Then: 10 years ago at Popey’s 70th Birthday with all 4 grandkids

Now: 10 years later at Popey’s 80th Birthday with all 4 grandkids

Top row: Mark (kid #4), Liz (Mark's wife), Kathy (kid #3), Jacky (Kathy's husband), Alan (kid #2), Debbie (kid #1)
Second Row: Brent (grandkid #4/Kathy's son), Alyssa (grandkid #2/Mark's daughter), Grammy, Popey, Anthony (grandkid #1/Mark's son), Meredith (grandkid #3/Kathy's daughter)
Third Row: Luc (Mark's wife,Liz's son), Landry (Mark's wife,Liz's daughter)

I’m sorry this was such a picture heavy post, but I promised pictures :) Hope you enjoyed them!! HAPPY MONDAY!!

First Day Back

2011-01-20T16:26:00.001-06:00

So I totally survived my first day back. It was a great day filled with “having new teachers” anxiety but I loved the two I got to meet. Yesterday was like my second first day, if you will, because I got to meet my Monday Wednesday Friday teachers and I loved them too! I had one that I chose to have again because I loved her last semester, so life was good :)

Last night I went to a chemistry study session from 5:30-7:30 with my professor and I loved it. I discovered I learned basically everything in college chemistry when I was in high school, but I’ll gladly relearn it to get that A. Also, some of the college chemistry topics go a tad more in depth, which is totally cool with me. I loved chemistry in high school, so let’s just hope I love it just as much in college.

While in English this morning, my professor pulled up Google and I have to say I totally loved the logo-art they did for today to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy.

It totally rocks my world. I guess you can call me somewhat in love with the Kennedy family (even though I lean more towards being a Conservative Republican) and I can’t really pinpoint a reason as to why that is. I just do. I feel like JFK was really on to something before he was shot and I wish the person that shot him would’ve given him the chance to carry out his visions. He would have done something magnificent.

Today I leave you with something to ponder:

Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth. ~John F. Kennedy

I will also be participating in a Blog Carnival type thing hosted by my sweet friend Holly. I can’t WAIT! You should go check out her blog and participate too :)

Hope you’ve had a great week thus far :)

Sneak Peek- Popey’s 80th Birthday

2011-01-18T10:36:00.001-06:00

Pre-surprise party festivities….the collage and picture for guests to sign were both made by my wonderful mamma. She decorated the entire hall where we hosted this momentous occasion and her decor is now the talk of their small town. Gotta love it :) My Uncle Mark rented a limo for Popey to ride to his party in because he thought he was driving about an hour away from his home to go to dinner at a Mexican food restaurant…..boy was he wrong! I drove my Rav4 to lead the limo to the party, so I wasn’t privy to all that went on in that limo, but I will say Popey sure did enjoy it! We had our amazing friend and photographer come in from Houston to photograph this event and I haven’t gotten the disc of pictures yet. When I do, I’ll definitely post some for y’all to see :)

Post-surprise party we had a small party at home for Popey :) Family only!

Classes start for me in 25 minutes….I’m SCARED!! Wish me luck :) xoxoxox

Schedule for Spring 2011 and some other stuff :)

2011-01-12T09:55:00.003-06:00

This past weekend we threw Popey a surprise 80th birthday party over the weekend and it was beyond FABULOUS! My entire family pitched in to make everything happen and they worked their tails off. I was totally impressed at how well everyone worked together. A good chunk of the town attended and even though his invitations clearly requested "no gifts," he still got a lot of things. From a rain gauge to tangerines to scratch offs to cash...you name it, he got it! This 80 year old man is BANKIN'! haha Hopefully I can put some pictures up soon.

I finally got my schedule changed to start working on more of my Nursing prerequisites. I think I had an angel smile on me this morning because when I checked the open class schedule last night no chemistry classes were open and right as I was about to log off of the computer a chemistry class and a lab opened up. Praise the Lord! I am so grateful. My fabulous Aunt Liz helped me decide between a few classes as well so I am grateful to her for her guidance. I could not have done it without her. Seriously.

My class schedule is as follows:

Monday: Sociology 9:00-9:50am
Political Science (Second Part) 10:00-10:50am
Chemistry 3:30-4:50pm

Tuesday: English (Second Part) 11:00am-12:20pm
Theatre Appreciation 12:30pm-1:50pm

Wednesday: Sociology 9:00-9:50am
Political Science (Second Part) 10:00-10:50am
Chemistry (Lab) 12:30-3:20pm
Chemistry 3:30-4:50pm

Thursday: English (Second Part) 11:00am-12:20pm
Theatre Appreciation 12:30-1:50pm

Friday: Sociology 9:00am-9:50am
Political Science (Second Part) 10:00-10:50am

I'm rather pleased with my schedule as it will aid me in #3 of my 2011 goals . I also have no 8:00am classes as I did on Monday, Wednesday and Friday last semester. 16 semester hours...we can do it! I'm a morning person but those 8:00am classes KILLED me. I was always exhausted when waking up in the mornings. I will not go through that again. I may be a huge morning person but not when I closed for work the night before. Not a good combination for me....no ma'am!

As much as I love being near the family I am near up here, I miss my family and friends back home. I need to take time off and go see them....maybe Spring Break?!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-04T09:00:00.000-06:00

This post is far from amazing or eventful but it needs to be shared, so bear with me lol.

The above pictures were actually taken by me right around Christmas. They're at my Grammy's and I love all three of them. I have a ridiculous amount of pictures from Christmas and to post them on the very slow Blogger would swallow a good chunk of my day, so here's what I'm posting for now.

The pictures above this were taken while I was home pre-Christmas for my momma's birthday. My Christmas tree and three favorite ornaments. I made the one with the gold puzzle pieces when I was a "Brownie."

365.

2011-01-03T12:23:00.002-06:00

After much research as far as blogging companies go, I've decided NOT to use Blogger for my 365 Project. 1 photo/day for each day of the year. I can do it. Tumblr will be my 365 host/random thoughts host for 2011. You can find me here :)

Does this mean I will neglect my baby, The Babblings of Mere? No. It simply means Blogger did not cut it for me as far as mobile posting and speed goes. It would be lovely for them to improve that. Like seriously.

No one likes to make New Years Resolutions everyone and their dog knows they won't keep, so after more careful contemplation I have come up with the following goals for 2011:

1.) Blog at least 1/week
2.) Start really living each day to the fullest again instead of "going through the motions."
3.) Work less days and the same amount of hours
4.) Make straight A's for Spring 2011 in college (first semester was 3 B's and 2 A's)<----BOO!
5.) Put my weightloss in high gear again and get back to 120 lbs.
6.) Take MORE pictures
7.) Laugh more :D
8.) Spend more time with those I love most
9.) Stay away from negative people and those that don't make good choices
10.) Express myself more
11.) Make good choices as far as location goes for Fall 2011 <---more later on this

Are you READY??

"Christmas Eve is coming soon and I can hardly wait!"

2010-12-22T08:43:00.001-06:00

I have been spending a lot of time at my Uncle Mark and Aunt Liz's because my dorm is closed for the holidays. Both Luc and Landry are so excited for Christmas. I downloaded 2 iPhone apps they can track and call Santa on. The Santa tracker also has a naughty and nice list I can personalize so they generally flip back and forth between the two lists depending on their daily behavior. I think these apps rock! There's also an online Santa tracker called NORAD that's pretty groovy too. If you have little kids, check it out! I have to brag on Luc and Landry for a second because those kids do a great job of remembering why we celebrate Christmas. They constantly remind me Jesus' birthday is Christmas and that we are baking him a cake. They can't wait to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas

I finally finished all my Christmas shopping both online and in store. I have a few more I need to get but I won't see those people until after Christmas so I'm not stressing over it.

Working in retail gets stressful this time of year because everyone's emotions are heightened. I had a guy come in the other day to Gymboree that was just the sweetest and he just cried like a baby explaining who his gifts were for. He was purchasing gifts for what would be his brother's grandchildren but his brother never got to meet them. He's been filling in for the grandpa role for his brother in his absence. It broke my eighteen year old heart. May God bless all those with heavy hearts this Christmas and be the Great Comforter that only He can be.

Traditions

2010-12-11T07:30:00.001-06:00

I spoke breifly on traditions yesterday, but I wanted to touch more on those in this post because I think having traditions is really important. Keeping those traditions is even MORE important.

Our traditions in a nutshell are:

Christmas Eve- We normally spend Christmas Eve at Grammy and Popey's. We used to eat seafood but because 2/4 grandchildren don't care for/are allergic to it, we now eat Mexican Food. We also open presents on Christmas Eve as a family with the amazing Uncle Mark passing out presents. '

Christmas Tree- Our Christmas tree is filled with Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments collected over more years than I've been alive, homemade ornaments made by Brent and I, and ornaments from our travels/special events we attended. Every ornament has a meaning on that tree and that's probably what I love the most.

Cut-out cookies- Mom, Brent and I also usually make homemade cutout sugar cookies. They are lovingly frosted with homemade icing by us as well. It is always such a fun evening and they make delicious treats for days to come.

What are your Christmas traditions?!

"It is Christmas in the heart that puts Christmas in the air." ~W.T. Willis

Hey Christmas....

2010-12-10T14:57:00.004-06:00

how did you get here SO QUICKLY?? I feel like I was just celebrating this holiday last week!

Next to Summer, Christmastime is my most favorite time of year. If you know me IRL, you know that I detest cold weather. I've said so on this blog many a day. I do, however, LOVE Winter clothing. I think it is cute and cozy. I also love being snuggled under a fleece blanket watching television in my fleece Winter pajamas.

When I was a little girl, we used to watch the Mara Wilson version of Miracle on 34th Street and hang Christmas ornaments on the tree with our mom. Brent and I love Christmas traditions and make every effort to keep them.

I went home last weekend for the first time since the beginning of October. I love going home but am always very sad to leave. Once I get back to college, I'm happy as can be again though. While home, I ate with my family at my favorite Mexican food restaurant, got my Christmas card picture taken, ate lunch with friends, wrote an essay, saw my step-sister and her children and went to church. It was a jam packed weekend filled with lots of fun and chaos. Luc and Landry's Christmas Concert for school was last night. It was only 30 minutes but it was really cute! It brought back so many memories for me, both good and bad. Above they are with Uncle Mark and Aunt Liz below then their singing Santa Clause at their house. Gotta love them

Clearly I’m a little behind

2010-12-01T15:11:00.001-06:00

It’s been a really chaotic few weeks in my life with school and work. I spent 2 weeks working over 40 hours per week and juggling school and it almost killed me. I did nothing but study and work at two different Gymboree stores. I love working at other stores but not during school. Actually, when I did it in high school it was a lot easier than it has been in college. I’m slowly but surely discovering the differences between high school and college. High school seemed to spread things out over the semester pretty evenly and I feel like college has some really slow weeks and then some weeks that are jam-packed with stress and very little sleep. I’m working hard to figure out how to make those jam-packed weeks more bearable. I think by next semester I’ll have things figured out a little better as far as planning and allocation go.

Finals are coming up starting Monday, December 13th and I’m not too worried but more so nervous because I don’t know what to expect. I’m going home this weekend to Houston because I actually got a weekend off. Thank God. I just need a breather. It will be a whirlwind but I anticipate enjoying it.

I’m nixing my thirty day challenge because those things just aren’t me. I can’t religiously write on different topics. I think they are wonderful lists of prompts to get to know others, but I have a hard time doing them and better yet, keeping up with them. If you would like me to write about something off of the list I previously posted, just put your request in my comments and I’ll be glad to do a post for you :)

I had a lovely Thanksgiving with my grandparents, aunts and uncles. I stayed with my grandparents and drove 1 hour 45 minutes to get to work for almost a week. That was totally exhausting. My mom, stepdad and brother stayed in Houston because my brother had to work on Black Friday as I did. I missed having them at my grandparents because we all usually go there every year.

Aunt Liz carving the turkey Uncle Mark and Popey on the back porch

My cousin Alyssa (Uncle Mark’s daughter), Grammy, me and Popey

The more than gorgeous sunset at Grammy and Popey’s <3

I hope you and yours had a more than blessed Thanksgiving! Tell me what you did or at least how you’re doing! I’ve missed y’all!

Thirty Day Challenge #3

2010-11-09T07:41:00.000-06:00

"3. Your favorite television program"

It's pretty much no secret that my favorite television show is Grey's Anatomy followed by Desperate Housewives in a close second. When my roommate insists on talking through my show, I politely remind her, "my best friends are on." They really are though. I love all of them; they fascinate me. I wish so much to live in their world somedays because it seems so much easier than the realities we face in today's world. I love Meredith and Christina's friendship as well as Meredith and Derek's marraige/relationship most.

The writing is absolutely brilliant and the actors execute their characters flawlessly. Private Practice is the Grey's Spinoff and while it's a good show it's not O.M.G. to me. I just don't enjoy it as much.

Thirty Day Challenge #2

2010-11-04T08:20:00.003-06:00

"2. Talk about your piercings or tattoos if you have any."

As far as piercings go, I have my first and second hole on my ears done, and one cartlidge. About a year and a half ago, I got my belly button done. My belly button is not as "public" as my ears are because I choose not to often wear things that are revealing in that manner. It begins to look "eww" when people do that all the time. In the pictures above, however, I have revealed all of my piercings with black circles! I have no tattoos and do not intend to get any. They just aren't my style. lol

Thirty Day Challenge #1

2010-11-03T07:00:00.000-06:00

“1. Your middle name and how you feel about it”

As much as I appreciate and admire my ~~momma’s~~ mother’s attempt to be creative, I don’t always *love* the spelling of my middle name. It’s Aileen. When I’m in trouble or my ~~momma~~ mom is trying to get a point across she says, “Meredith Aileen!” Sounds FABULOUS right?!……………….WRONG!

At first glance, people usually pronounce it “A-lean.” I generally reply with congratulatory remarks applauding their good try, but gently correct them with my correct pronunciation, “I-lean.” There are days I wish I had a normal middle name like “Ann” or “Elizabeth.” Apparently that just couldn’t be on July 28, 1992.

Other days, I love my middle name and it’s unique qualities. I have yet to meet someone with my exact spelling AND pronunciation. I’ll be the first to raise my hand to the fact that I dance to my own drummer and almost never follow the crowd. In my world, I am the crowd. ha

It is also a rare occasion that I meet another “Meredith,” too.

So if you’ve kept with me thus far, THANKS! In a nutshell and past all my babbling,I am rather bipolar, if you will, in respect to my middle name.

Thirty-Day Challenge

2010-10-31T22:51:00.001-06:00

I saw this on a very dear friend of mine’s blog and I decided to “steal” it! It’s great to learn about other’s opinions on things, so if you like this, you are more than welcome to use it! I will do my best to keep up with this…..stay tuned to see my answer to #1 :)

For your listening pleasure…..I apologize you have to stare at the same thing the entire song and there’s not an actual music video. This song made me cry like a baby when I first heard it. I hate that I’m so grown up sometimes. I wish I could go back to the days of being a little girl and having my mom climb in bed with me in the evenings before I had to go to sleep, just to talk. I miss her being on my case all the time (not that it’s changed too much with me in college hahah) I miss her home-cooked meals and her laundry services. I miss her hugs, even though they were few and far between. I miss the mornings she did my hair for school with a bow in any way I requested. I miss grocery shopping with her. I miss being with my little brother every day, as much as we got on each other’s nerves. We did everything together. He was and still is my first best friend. I miss being little.

If I Die Young…

2010-10-15T22:32:00.001-05:00

I’ve been hanging out with Jessica a lot lately. We go to the same university and we live in the same dorm (she lives two floors above me), but we haven’t been hanging out too terribly often. I’m usually either in class, at work or sleeping. The past two weeks, however, we have hung out together 4 or 5 times. Our friendship has changed a lot. Actually, I would consider “a lot an understatement.” That’s another set of info for another post though. The point to that babble was that a few nights ago we were sharing new music finds we’d discovered lately, and she put this song on.

Needless to say, I am now beyond past obsessed with this song. I listen to it on repeat until my heart can’t handle it anymore. Just listen to the words and enjoy her gorgeous voice.

After listening to this song for the first time, I got to thinking about death. Jessica’s maternal grandmother passed away recently, so this song reminded her of that. For me, it meant exactly as the lyrics set it out to be.

I thought and thought about death and came to this conclusion:

I am not afraid to die, by any means. I am ready to meet my Creator with open arms and get my wings. In fact, I can’t wait. Death doesn’t scare me one bit and I think it’s because I know there’s something more than this earth. The One who gave us breath went before us and made a place for us to live with Him forever. The only thing that makes me sad about me dying is leaving the people I love the most here on this earth, in this life. I am confident that I will see them again someday though. We’ll all walk through those gates and spend eternity together worshiping our Awesome God.

I told Jessica that and I’m pretty sure she thought I was weird. ~~Oh well~~. It’s the truth and I’m not afraid to hide it.

After we got that part of the conversation out of the way, I started talking about what I would want my family to do if I really did die. I know for a fact that I don’t want a Catholic funeral/memorial service. That isn’t me. I would prefer a Christian (Non-denominational) funeral/memorial service. I want it to be happy and celebrate my life. I want people to wear bright colors and eat my favorite foods. I want lots of pictures of me with the people I love everywhere and my favorite songs played. I want my friends to talk to the congregation and sing to them. I want people to leave excited to meet their Creator, too. What I can’t decide is what I want done with my body. Part of me wants to be embalmed and put in a black casket. I think seeing a body provides closure. Another part of me doesn’t want everyone to see me dead though;I kind of want just my family and close friends to see me like that. I don’t want to be remembered in that state and in that outfit. The other part of me wants to be cremated, but let my family and close friends see my body before then. I think my mom will know what to do with my body if and when the time comes.

Note: I am in no way, shape or form suicidal. I think death is a part of life and we should all be ready and those around us should know our wishes.

Tag, I’m it!

2010-10-12T13:54:00.001-05:00

The lovely Becca from Making Memories tagged me in this eight question tagging game and I’m so excited she did!

Her questions are:

1) What are the 3 places you would like to go and visit?

As corny as this sounds, I would love to visit Seattle because of my favorite show, Grey’s Anatomy.

I would also love to see Hartford, CT. My brother and I used to be OBSESSED with Gilmore Girls and that show made me want to visit Connecticut. Hahah

I’ve been to London and all over Italy but never to Paris. I would love to go there!

2) Tell me about something you really care about?

Theatre. Hands down. It brings me more joy than anything else. My favorite parts of a show are the beginning stages when ideas are flowing and Tech Curtain Call. Two of the best feelings in the entire world and feelings I never want to loose.

3) What is the hardest thing you have ever had to do?

I’m actually doing the hardest thing I’ve ever done right now. Deciding on a major is killing me and I will be the person you meet with several polar-opposite degrees. No joke.

4) What is your favourite part of the day?

Early, early morning is definitely my favorite part of the day. I like waking up when it’s dark and watching the sun rise.

5) What is your favourite film?

I have a hard time picking just one, but Disney’s Mary Poppins pretty much tops the list. Julie Andrews is an incredible actress.

6) If you could ban one thing what would it be?

If I could ban one thing…just one thing….I would ban illegal drugs. They change people for the worse and are gross.

7) Are you superstitious?

Not at all.

8) Where would you like to see yourself in 10 years time?

In ten years, I would like to be married at least with a successful career and a few degrees :)

Thanks for tagging me, Becca!!! This was FUN!

Happy Friday!

2010-10-08T09:36:00.003-05:00

I haven't done one of these in a while and I'm so glad it's FRIDAY today! I'm super excited for the weekend. I'm quite behind on watching my shows on my DVR, so I'll need to do that soon. I also need to make a trip to the grocery store. I need to remember to take my list inside with me for sure.....ugh! I also updated the music on here for your listening pleasure :)

1. My favorite month is December because everyone is happy and polite to each other in pubic.

2. October is a fresh breeze.

3. I love to sniff the air freshener in my dorm room.

4. Starbucks Mocha Frapuccino and Vanilla Bean Scone is what I like to have as a treat for breakfast.

5. The hobby I enjoy most is photography.

6. Christmas time is right around the corner, oh my!

7. And as for this weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to surprising someone special, tomorrow my plans include doing something fun with my roommate, and Sunday, I want to have a relaxing day and do my pile of laundry.

Have an AMAZING weekend

Inhale Love. Exhale Hate.

2010-10-06T22:35:00.001-05:00

I’m not a confrontational person by any means, but when I get enough of someone or something…watch out! I guess the “watch out” comes into play only because I choose not to express my feelings as they occur. I usually keep my smile on and let things bottle up until I’ve decided enough is enough.

“Back in the day” I was not like this at all. I used to express my feelings as they occurred and never bottle things up inside, knowing this wasn’t healthy. Why I flip-flopped, I’m not sure. I think it’s because I’ve always been around a lot of people who express themselves 24/7 and almost always seen negative consequences. Those scare me. Bottom line. I hate to see people hurt or defeated post-consequence. It breaks my heart.

I’m learning to better express myself through choosing my words more carefully and really thinking before I speak and blow up on someone. I love setting a good example on how people should behave and treat others, so deviating from my normal smile and cheerfulness just isn’t an option. I’ve become a pretty “chill” person, but I have a long way to go, especially when dealing with people my age. I do a lot better with people over the ripe old age of twenty. As I navigate down this path we call life, and you “watch” in ~~horror~~ excitement, I hope I remember to Inhale Love and Exhale Hate more often. If my brain fails me, I’m sure Our Creator will remind me….I am sure of that.

Some questions for you: What are you like in this aspect of your life? Do you bottle things up or express on the spot? I want to learn from YOU!

Fall

2010-09-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

If you know anything about my preferences, you know that I absolutely despise cold weather. It just ticks me off. I would prefer to have year-round summer, but totally understand why seasons have to change. I actually like seasons changing, believe it or not. I love all of the seasons for different reasons and get really into it. I am a huge fan of Yankee Candle wall plug-ins and enjoy changing those when the seasons change. When I first moved into my dorm, it was still summer, so my plug in was Beach Walk. Now that Fall has officially started, my roommate and I chose Autumn Wreath. Who knows what we'll choose for Christmas time....oh the mystery!

I also changed my body wash for Fall as well. During the Summer I used Butterfly Flower from Bath and Body Works. For Fall, I chose to use Japanese Cherry Blossom. It sort of seems Fallish, I guess. Working in a mall doesn't help my Yankee Candle and Bath and Body works obsession...not one bit! In my old mall, I knew the people that worked in both of those stores by name. I'm getting there with the new mall I'm in as well. Sad, isn't it?

Hey College, I love you <3

2010-09-28T14:34:00.001-05:00

“Grace isn’t a little prayer you chant before receiving a meal…it’s a way to live.”

I have been the busiest person alive as of lately. College is definitely growing on me. I went through the “I want to go home” phase for a while, but that is long gone! I LOVE IT HERE! It’s a blast. I basically do everything at my leisure and it ROCKS!

Here’s my schedule:

Monday, Wednesday, Friday: English 8:00-8:50AM; PoliSci 10:00-10:50AM; College Algebra 11:00-11:50AM and University Seminar (Wednesdays only)- 12:30-1:20pm

Tuesday: Communications 6:30-9:20PM

Thursday-NOTHING!

My grades have been fantabulous, so I can’t complain about that either. :)

I’m a morning person and always have been. Not really sure why…maybe because I was born in the morning (8:38AM)….NO IDEA! I love them! Don’t get me wrong…the older I get, the more I enjoy sleeping in occasionally…key word “occasionally.”

On the work front, I detest Janie and Jack. ~~I’m bored.~~ It doesn’t have enough stimulation for me. If you know me, you know that I am full of energy and bounce off the walls. I can’t sit still for too long. Period. I am in the process of getting a transfer to the Gymboree in my new mall. I’ll be interviewing for a promotion here very soon. WOO HOO!

I’ve gotten several e-mails and even a comment regarding the University of Texas shooting that occurred this morning. Y’all are too sweet! I don’t go to that university and I’m doing just fine! I go to Texas State University in San Marcos….two different places. A lot of non-Texans don’t realize that those two universities aren’t the same….

I’m still contemplating my major because I have so many things I want to do with my life. My list is pretty ridiculous.

1. Be a Pediatric Nurse at Texas Children’s in Houston

2. Be a Kindergarten Teacher

3. Be a High School Theatre Director

4. Have my own Gymboree

5. Be a District Manager for Gymboree

6. Most importantly: Be a MOM

At some point, I need to get my priorities straight. One day…..

It’s all coming back to me….

2010-08-30T19:53:00.001-05:00

I feel sorry for the people who didn’t learn to proficiently read and write before entering an institution of higher education. I also feel sorry for those who didn’t learn time-management and organizational skills before doing the same thing. Those people will suffer greatly before eventually being forced to educate themselves in those skills, or they’ll be another statistic and qualify as a dropout. It’s a sad, but true, fact.

There are certain acquired abilities required to be successful in college, and while I’ve acquired them all with more than one swift kick in the ass from my mother, I’ve not used several in a number of months.

1) Literacy- One must be able to successfully read and write. If you’re unable to do that, you’re pretty much screwed.

2) Time-Management- Not wasting time and filling every spare moment attempting to cross something out of that packed planner is most certainly a close second to literacy. If you’re unable to constantly cross things off of that to-do list, that late night will turn into a morning for you. While you’ll receive the chance to view a gorgeous sunrise, that 8am class will morph into an 8am nap.

3) Self-Discipline/Motivation- Always having that end-goal in mind constantly keeps me going. I’m always working to “get ahead” in order to not fall behind. Being somewhat of an introvert helps with the self-discipline/motivation part of things, but who’s not to say these two things aren’t acquirable….not me!

4) Organization- I would have to say that this one word is the absolute key to success. It’s not optional. If you’re not organized, things will just go poorly in general.

Needless to say, it’s all coming back to me. Praise Jesus.

Welcome to College

2010-08-25T07:50:00.001-05:00

While the above album is pretty self-explanatory, I would just like to inform you that that is the “re-done” version of my dorm. When I originally moved in, I did not have that tall silver shelf that has now proved to be the best $89 investment I’ve ever made. Thank you Lowes.

I start classes at 8am this morning. I did my schedule that way because I’m such a morning person. It’s almost disgusting how well I function in the mornings. Luckily, my first class is right up the hill from my dorm.

My mom came the day before yesterday to spend some time with me after her Alaskan cruise. She and my step-dad did not move me in because of their 2 week Alaskan Cruise, but my amazing Uncle Mark did. He was so patient with me. I loved it. He has always been someone I’ve looked up to ever since I was a little girl. In fact, he is also my “god father.” (I claimed him when I made my first communion).

I was so surprised at how grateful I was to see my mom a few days ago. I, honestly, did not want her to leave. We went shopping, out to eat and giggled over the course of her 2 day visit. I think me living here and Mom living back in Houston will probably help our relationship. Trust me…we need it.

I had a breakdown finally yesterday about being here. I miss MY Gymboree back home more than anything. I don’t mind being away from home because my Grammy lives 45 minutes down the highway and my Uncle Mark and Aunt Liz live 35 minutes down the interstate. Home isn’t the issue. It’s the store issue. I miss the people I’ve worked with for 2 years. I miss my best friends. I miss theatre. I like my new store, it’s just different. It’s Janie and Jack instead of Gymboree, but it’s all the same company. Crazy 8, Gymboree and Janie and Jack are all the same company.

My roommate is really nice. We used a roommate matching service and were both matched to several hundred people. I talked to four or five people before choosing Kirsten. While we are a LOT alike in so many ways, we are also very different. It’s crazy, and I’ll reveal more on that later.

College <3

2010-08-16T17:46:00.001-05:00

College is rapidly approaching. I move in Wednesday and I wish I could say I was so excited. Let me back up…I’m excited, but sad at the same time. My last day at my Gymboree is tomorrow. I get off at 6 then when the store closes we’re going out to eat. I’m going to miss my team more than words can express. I’m transferring to another store in Austin, but I can assure you things won’t be the same.

I’ve been packing myself for weeks now and Moving Day is 2 days away. Jesus help me.

Birthday :)

2010-08-13T14:11:00.001-05:00

I turned 18 on July 28th.

Not the best birthday I’ve ever had, but my parents worked hard and my cake ROCKED my world. I designed it and am STILL in love with it. Will #19 beat it?!

Happy.

2010-07-25T00:59:00.001-05:00

Lately, I have been unusually happy. My phrase for it is, “I’m so happy it should be illegal.” That’s not a lie or an understatement…because I just am. I’ve been singing out loud at the most random moment. God places these fabulous praise and worship songs in my heart and they just come right out of my mouth. I did it yesterday right after I went to see my brother at Baskin Robbins (did I mention he has a JOB?!) to get some of my favorite Pink Bubblegum ice cream. I just started singing! I’m on fire for the Lord again and I love it :)

Some people I haven’t seen or spoken to in a while keep popping into my head. It’s kind of scary actually. I was in the mall last night and I started humming a song that Heather sang at Thespian Banquet this past year and not even a second later it came on the mall radio/ It was the strangest thing. The 2 nights ago I dreamt about Jessica and her mom. That was the last dream I had before waking up. When I woke up I felt compelled to call her but I refrained. I haven’t spoken to her since her graduation party where I broke my ankle. I found out on Facebook she had her wisdom teeth removed. I feel bad for her, but I can’t do a thing about it. I don’t even know if It’s worth extending an olive branch at this point. Later on down the road? Yes. Definite possibility we could be friends again. For now, I’ll stick to not talking. I’m so much happier sans Jessica right now and I’d like to keep it that way for a while. I see Heather all the time compliments of my brother. Oh the glory of sharing friends with a younger sibling :p

I’ve updated my playlist, so please take your speakers off mute. THERE ARE NEW SONGS! YAYYYY!!!!

Glitzen asked about my new blog design! The TERRIFIC Krystyn with Krizzy Designs exceeded every expectation and was absolutely amazing. She was quick, professional and totally affordable. Her constant communication made me feel super comfortable and I would recommend her to anyone in half of a heartbeat. SHE ROCKED!

Ding, Dong the cast is GONE!

2010-07-21T23:11:00.004-05:00

I got my cast off yesterday. YAY! It was on for 6 weeks and 1 day. I hated it with a passion....every minute! When I got it off, there was heat rash under it. NO BUENO! It's gone away now thought. Cast #1 was the pink and purple one. My cast artist, Orlando, was PHENOMENAL! All of my designs, etc. he did in the cast material, by cutting them out himself. Cast #2 is Gymboree colors. hehe. Cast #3 was navy with tie-dye and hearts. I didn't take too many pictures of it because I was SO DONE!

Cruise with Cast 2010

2010-07-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

1) Grammy and I outside the cabana we rented in Margaritaville on Grand Turk :)

2) Brent and I at dinner one evening

3) Grammy and Mom at dinner one evening after a long day

4) St. Marteen

All in all, we had a blast....well my family did at least. I was miserable. I couldn't do anything I normall do on cruises. This was my fourth cruise and while I wasn't looking forward to it in the first place, it was all expenses paid by a family friend, so I couldn't exactly say "no." Honestly, while I enjoyed the quality time it gave me with my Grammy, I counted down the days to come home. I missed Gymboree and my friends. I missed my routine and my internet that didn't cost me an arm and a leg. I missed being able to text and use the internet on my iPhone. I missed home. Princess Cruises is by far my favorite (I've been on 3 cruises with them and one with Royal Carribbean). In a nutshell, I should not have gone with a cast on. The end.

You find out who your friends are....

2010-07-19T23:05:00.002-05:00

I'm going to start from the root of this post. I graduated on June 5th at 9am. After that, I went home to mingle with some family, open a present from my Uncle Mark and Aunt Liz. I then convinced them to allow Landry to stay the rest of the weekend with me. We went to Janie and Jack to see my Mama T (Tamara..more on her later) and pick up a swimsuit for my beloved toodles. She requested that store specifically. They are a part of the Gymboree Corporation too and I love their store. I got her a swim suit, sandals and sunglasses. $55 later we were on our way to my dad's because he was throwing me a pool party. We had SO MUCH FUN! Mind you, it was awkward seeing people I chose not to see after I stopped going over there for visitation at the ripe old age of 12....but it was still fun to see her swim and giggle. After the party, I drove my Rav4 to McDonalds because my Toodles was hungry. We then raced inside and I took a shower, re-did my makeup. blowdried and straightened my hair, changed Landry's clothing then proceeded to drive across town to the grad party my mom and step-dad were throwing for me. It was emotional but gorgeous!

Post grad party #2, I went to ProGrad at my school. It was actually pretty fun. I went with my FFA friends and we laughed at everything. 6am came and it was time to go home. I was exhausted. I slept for a while then got up to go to lunch with my parents and Landry. Nap time came around 3pm then the next thing I know, my mom and Landry are waking me up to go to Jessica's party, thus creating the mess I'm in now. I should have never been at that party. Bottom line.

Since that party, not once has Jessica texted or called to ask if my ankle was okay. In fact, when I texted her the news of my very broken ankle, her response was "shit." That's it. Her parents and sister on the other hand, have been very concerned. I just find it sad that my "best friend" hasn't done or said anything. (she's not really my "best friend" anymore--I'm done with that for now) None of my other school friends have offered to come pick me up either to hang out. They Facebook me all the time to ask if we can hang out. I of course reply that we can when I get my cast off, if they don't come pick me up. Has one of them been to pick me up, so we can hang out? Nope. Not one of them. My best friend from work, Sunni, hangs out with me and hauls me around a lot. I love her. She is terrific and such an amazing friend. I will miss her most when I move to my new store. She's worked with me since my very first day at Gymboree.

Needless to say, you find out who your true friends are. Some "friends" I had.

Boston (Senior trip with cast #1)

2010-07-14T21:14:00.004-05:00

Me eating Lobster :)

Some random street in Boston with GORGEOUS trees

^Brent and I singing at the Dixie Chicks concert! ^My favorite band ever...the DIXIE CHICKS!

We had fourth row seats at the concert. I was in hog-heaven! It was my fourth time seeing them and the last time I saw them I had sixth row seats here in Houston. It was by far the most amazing concert ever <3

P.S. Please, please, please GRAB MY BUTTON

<------------

Graduation

2010-07-13T22:19:00.004-05:00

Graduation....The girl in the polka dot dress is someone I've known since she was born....actually before her mom even married her dad! Her dad takes all of my GORGEOUS pictures...including these....and the little girl is Landry (the child who I nannied for last summer who turned into my cousin)

I honestly thought I would be so sad, but in reality that day was such a blur. I was happy and liberated :) I'll never forget that feeling.

in the shadows

2010-07-07T22:43:00.002-05:00

I have been living in the shadows for a while….not simply “going through the motions”, but simply so busy I can barely function. Honestly though, I’m not complaining. I love being busy and out of my house.

Where to begin…..Well I’ve graduated from high school, and the next day I broke my ankle. It’s been pretty ~~depressing~~ miserable around here. I’ve been through three casts and as of yesterday, I have 2-3 weeks left in this cute piece of fiberglass. Until this happened to me, I took my ability to drive myself around for granted. I took the ability to walk in “speedy Gonzalez” mode for granted. I still work at Gymboree all the time…30-40 hours/week still to be exact. I’ll be transferring to a Gymboree closer to college closer to the Fall. I still love my job more than words can express and will continue to work at Gymboree through and after college (after I get my degree, until I get sick of it. I love the company I work for, the people I work with, the product I sell and most importantly my customers. They rock my world. I will miss everyone at my store like crazy, but I’m confident I’ve made lifelong friends. I’m already a Sales Lead with Gymboree now, so I estimate I’ll be a Store Manager officially by the time I’m 22. Hopefully, I’ll be back in the Houston area by then because my District Manager (DM) has already asked me to come back to his district post-college.

I’m sick of this cast. My mom and step-dad are my chauffeurs for the time being because I did break my right ankle. It’s not been a fun experience. I was actually at Jessica’s house, taking pictures with my brand new camera (my parents gave me this for graduation), when I walked off a deck. I didn’t cry, but I did get dizzy and I thought I was going to pass out. That’s never a good feeling. I walked around on it for the rest of the evening and then proceeded to drive on it that night, twice. When I got home, my parents didn’t take me to the ER because I’ve sprained and twisted many an ankle in my 17 years of life. When I went the next morning to a Orthopedic my Pediatrician recommended, they gave me the depressing news that I had indeed broken my right ankle. My stomach then grew a knot the size of Texas. I had 2 Senior Trips planned, and later that day we would discover that neither could be rescheduled. I went to see the Dixie Chicks/ Eagles/ Keith Urban concert in Boston and I had INCREDIBLE 4th row sears. Keith Urban came on first and the Dixie Chicks came on second, before the Eagles. I honestly went to see the Dixie Chicks first and foremost, but Keith Urban was definitely an added bonus. He’s what we call a “hottie mc hott hott!”

I’ve been the Dixie Chicks #1 fan ever since I was a little girl. I can pretty much sing every word to every song. This was my 4th time seeing them and the last time I saw them post-Natalie Maines’ comment, I was 6th row. I love them.

Back to the educational side of my life…on paper, my major is Interdisciplinary Studies EC-6 Bilingual. In plain English, that means I can teach Preschool-6th Grade and will be considered a bilingual (Spanish-speaking) teacher. If I stick to this major, the whole bilingual thing could prove to be quite a challenge. I took 3 years of Spanish in High School and LOVED it, but I don’t know how well I’ll do with this in college.

More later…I have to open at Gymboree tomorrow. I’ll get some pics up soon.

Love,

Mere

P.S. Krystyn with http://www.krizzydesigns.com is doing a Blog Makeover for me...get EXCITED! I know I am!

Denial

2010-05-24T09:00:00.000-05:00

I've found over the past few months that denial is a wonderful, terrible and powerful thing all wrapped into one. As much as I'm ready to graduate, I'm leaving behind a lot of wonderful friends that aren't yet graduating and a theatre program I've put my blood, sweat and tears in. It's depressing. So instead of going around and moping, I've chosen the alternate route....denial. I just pretend it isn't happening. I'm not growing up. I will not plan my graduation parties. It was bad enough I had to create all the invites for them and stuff my actual graduation invites; it took a lot out of me. I will not shop for party decor...no thank you. I will not send out thank-you notes quite yet for the cards I've received by mail.

This just isn't happening...not to me.

Love, Mere

Lately...

2010-05-23T21:26:00.002-05:00

A lot has happened since I last posted. I am now acting store manger at Gymboree and work 30-40 hours a week as well as go to school. I was in my UIL OAP and that was a crazy show about one family's reality. I graduate June 5th and have a lot of people from both my mom and real dad's side of the families coming in. I decided a week before prom that I was going all because I fell in love with a dress in a shop window. I went by myself and stayed for an hour and a half. It wasn't anything amazing but I had fun, despite going sick. My terrific photographer, Roy, took some pics of me pre-prom. I LOVE them :) I'll post more later.

Love, Mere

Mass chaos.

2010-03-23T20:04:00.001-06:00

The past month and a half has been mass chaos. I'm just now starting to come up for some air but it's been a long time coming. I'm still drowning in theatre, work and what little is left of my social life. I wish I knew when things were going to slow down but the sad truth is that I don't. Bear with me. This blog is by no means shut down...just on hold, so to speak.

I love my readers and the people brave enough to stick around in my life. You mean the world to me. Xoxo

Mere <3

The Music Man

2010-02-09T17:00:00.001-06:00

So our musical is finally over and we are beginning work on our UIL One Act Play "The Effects of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon Marigolds." I got the best and hardest acting role as Nanny which is a completely non-verbal role. I've been involved in theatre since I was 4 as has Brent. I moved over to tech my sophomore year for Grease and only act in the UIL OAP's now because they are the most challenging. This should be interesting....

Here are some pictures from the musical:
One evening after the show..... L to R: Britt, Heather, Faith, Brent (my brother), Erica (Brent's best friend in maroon), Catherine (above Erica in blue and white), Jess (my best friend in red) and Me (black and gray)

Me and Jason (he played Harold Hill) I have a HUGE crush on him...shhhh...don't tell!

Deb and her family came so above are Chase (7) , Me and Claire (6). I loved seeing them and their fangrams made my night!

Nick is the one with the goofy smile and he was doing spot for me and Justin (the one with the long hair) was running lights for me. Both did an awesome job!

That's me on a dress rehearsal day in my Music Man t-shirt calling cues. I LOVE being stage manager :)

Above you'll find part of the Pick-a-little ladies and Eulalie Mckecknie Shinn (Heather) in the dressing room I painted purple last year. Jess has the red hat on in the center. She played Alma Hicks and did a fabulous job :)

I'm sad it's over but relieved at the same time, you know? I know it won't be my last musical ever so I'm okay with it being over.

Best Friends

2010-02-09T16:41:00.005-06:00

While I don't think that's the best picture of me, it gets the point across. I love my best friend, Jessica, so much. We vent to each other. We confide in each other. We are always there for each other no matter what, even if we are mad at each other. We most definitely compliment each other very well. We are a lot a like and also very different. We have an amazing relationship and while it is far from perfect, it is one that will last for a very long time.

On Friday at 2:30pm CST, I will be on my way to see her in San Antonio at her State Choir Concert. (That concert is the reward of all her competing) While I won't get to watch her sing on Saturday morning in the concert, I will be taking her the present I made her (more on that later) and visiting Luc and Landry. CAN'T WAIT! Friday come quicker....

Love, Mere

It's really (almost) over

2010-02-01T11:55:00.001-06:00

The stress has finally left. The musical is almost over and I'm actually sad. These last few weeks I've made a concious decision to enjoy every moment...the good, the bad and the ugly. For I have now actually realized that I cannot get any of those moments back. This is my last high school musical. Wow. It's been quite a ride.

These last few weeks I've had a lot of time to think in between calling cues and helping my actors get ready. Honestly, I'm rethinking my major. While I've always been interested in being an RN, I've always wanted to be a teacher.i genuinely love kids and helping others. Theatre has been a passion and steady rock for 13 years now and I can't imagine not being involved in a show. Family Law has marked my life permanently and I really want to give back and help kids once in Brent and I's shoes. So needless to say, I'm stuck. I don't know what to do or which path to take...HELP!

School and Gymboree have been going well. I'm so grateful to have a manager that is willing to work with my crazy rehearsal schedules. On the flip side, I'm never home. Sometimes that's a good thing, and other days it's not.

I'm going to drive to San Antonio and surprise Jessica at her State choir dinner with her family. Her parents are in the loop and I can't wait!!

That's life for now...I'll post pictures soon.

Love, Mere

She made it!

2010-01-10T14:56:00.002-06:00

I have a Praise Report about Jess and her State Singing Competition.....SHE MADE IT!!

At 4:49pm (CST) yesterday, we began this conversation over text:

Jess: I made 2nd
Mere: YAY!! YOU MADE IT!! I'M SO PROUD OF YOU!!!! YAY YAY YAY
J: Thanks...I'm the only one
M: JESSICA!!!! OMG!!!!! I'M SO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!! MY PRAYERS GOT ANSWERED!!!
J: Thanks baby!
M: Omg I just changed your bio to made state all three years!! {Side note: I'm in charge of the programs for our musical, so I changed her bio to 3 years instead of 2}
J: Haha!

The sad part is: I'm not going to be able to watch her sing in San Antonio. The concert is for the kids that made it all over the state of Texas so each student only gets 4 tickets. Jessica's parents use up two tickets and her sister Beth and her boyfriend Trey are getting the other two tickets since Trey hasn't been before. Last year, Beth couldn't go, so I got her ticket. When she told me that, I was a little sad, but I'm totally okay with it. Family comes first :) I'll watch the DVD of it all afterwards.

Thank you all so much for praying!!

Love, Mere

I made it

2010-01-08T23:06:00.002-06:00

I made it. I survived the week. I kept receiving blog comments and they kept lifting my spirits. They were those gental reminders that I would make it and I'm so grateful you wrote them. They truly helped me make it through my week. Thank you!!

I was supposed to have Wednesday, tonight and tomorrow night off from Gymboree, but that didn't and won't happen. There is too much going on in that store for me to not be there. Oh well. If I didn't enjoy it, I wouldn't still be working there.

Theatre has been one thing after another, but thanks to some AMAZING parents, I have managed to lighten my load. YAY! It's called delegating the work and crisis managment. Those skills sure do come in handy!

Jess left this afternoon for the last level in the State Choir Competition here in Texas. I miss her terribly, but am praying she passes this next level so I can go watch her sing again in San Antonio. She has the most gorgeous voice!

Please keep praying I survive this month!

Love, Mere

Overwhelmed.

2010-01-04T13:59:00.002-06:00

I'm so overwhelmed it's sick. I didn't go to sleep until 6am because Brent and Jess kept me awake. I woke up around noon to an e-mail from the choir director regarding our musical playbill's because I'm incharge of those along with a bagillion other things. I also woke up to a text message from my theatre director regarding the musical set I have yet to get finished due to lack of help. The set has to be finished by this Saturday, January 9th. The house lighting equipment has to be finished being installed by January 15th. The lighting equipment rentals arrive on January 18 and the rented scenery drops arrive on January 19th. Work Notes are January 19th-22th provided everything goes according to schedule and opening night is January 26th.

On top of all this, I have to work at Gymboree so the next few weeks will consist of me going to school, attending rehearsal and going to work.

Today I have to be at work by 5:00pm and I'm working until 11:00pm because we have "New Line" at Gymboree.

School is back in session as of tomorrow and I have to be in advisory at 7:30am to recieve my new schedule so no off-periods for me tomorrow! :(

In closing, I remember my motto:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight." ~Proverbs 3:5-6

I can do this. I will do this. I just need to trust in Him. He will get me through. He's done it before and together, we'll do it again.

Love, Mere

"The Ranch"

2010-01-02T23:05:00.003-06:00

Luc, Me, Landry and Rigsby
Me and Jess

Jess on the 4-wheeler

Me and Jess (my face looks TERRIBLE because of how I'm leaning)

The GORGEOUS sunset on the way there

So...Jess and I went to my Grammy's house to get away from the big city. We had SO MUCH fun!! Jess always calls it "the ranch" and I'm not really sure where she got that from but it cracks me up.

Love, Mere

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T12:26:00.001-06:00

As we move into 2010, I just wanted to let my readers know that I appreciate you. Every comment with a kind word or a gentle word of advice really means a lot to me.

2010 will be a year filled with many changes for me and my family. I'll be graduating in June and going to college in August and I'm asking you to come along with me on my journey. I started this blog my freshman year in high school and I hope to continue it for many years to come.

In honor of my Polish heritage, I'd like to share with you a Polish blessing for the new year.

May your heart be as patient as the earth your love as warm as harvest gold. May your days be full, as the city is full Your nights as joyful as dancers. May your arms be as welcoming as home. May your faith be as enduring as God's love. Your spirit as valiant as your heritage. May your hand be as sure as a friend. Your dreams as hopeful as a child. May your soul be as brave as your people. AND MAY YOU BE BLESSED.

Happy New Year to you and your family. Thank you thank you thank you for everything you do.

I love you more than words can express
-Mere

Snow :)

2009-12-29T07:00:00.000-06:00

December 4. The day the great city of Houston recieved snow.

I'm sure this is NOTHING to my cold-weather friends like Geri and while I've seen snow several times (twice while skiing in Utah and once while skiing in Canada), it was still really exciting to see snow without having to step foot on an airplane. It was a huge event in our city. I even skipped school to have fun....shhhhh....don't tell anyone!

Brent (my brother) and I in our backyard in the snow
Brent and his best friend, Erica, "tasting" snow...SERIOUSLY?!

Even Heloise, enjoyed the snow for a little while before deciding to go in the garage because it was "too cold"

Our backyard during the snow

Snowing on our gate

Love, Mere

Christ the Savior is born

2009-12-27T21:55:00.004-06:00

Christmas 2009 was eventful to say the least. It started out as everything that defines normal and turned into the epitomy of dysfunctional. Oh well. Thank God it's behind our family for 363 more days. Aunt Liz's children, Luc and Landry, were at their dad's house, so my best friend, Jessica and I are going back to my Grammy and Popey's tomorrow to hopefully see them. I would be forever grateful if I got to see them. They are just precious.

Family tradition states we eat seafood, open presents and eat the candy tray on Christmas Eve. With Luc and Landry at their dad's, we broke the present-opening tradition but still ate seafood and the candy tray. Brent is allergic to seafood, so he ate cheese quesidillas from Taco Cabana.

I didn't get too much for Christmas. What do you get the girl that has everything? She buys herself things she wants throughout the year. Who needs a stinkin' Christmas list anyway?! lol

My beloved Aunt Liz
Popey awake

Popey asleep

The amazing and coveted candy tray created by Grammy

Uncle Mark putting out the shrimp, corn and potatoes

Love, Mere

Christmas Cards

2009-12-21T16:23:00.004-06:00

One of my favorite parts of Christmas is Christmas cards. Roy usually takes our pictures and I create the cards myself using Snapfish. It shows people who we don't regularly see how much we've changed over the course of a year and also gives us a chance to do the same for them.

But take a look at this years pics in comparison to last years.....

2008

2009

Weight Watchers has worked wonders for me! I am proud to be 28 lbs. lighter and counting. My ultimate goal is 120 lbs. I've been doing it slowly because it's really unhealthy to loose massive amounts of weight rapidly. I want to wear a 2-piece swimsuit this summer. That's something I've never been comfortable enough to do.

Love, Mere

Finals and other Tidbits

2009-12-18T22:52:00.005-06:00

I am proud to say that this week I completed my last set of Fall Finals! I will be exempt from all finals in the Spring, so like last year, I will be enjoying an "exemption activity" and going home :) I got good Final Exam grades, making my all my class averages an A. YAY!

I'm off Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and will be traveling the 3 hours to see my amazing grandparents and fabulous Aunt Liz. I'm coming home Christmas day so I can work the "After Christmas Sale" and chill for a while. Luc and Landry come home from their dad's house (My Aunt Liz's kids from a previous relationship) on December 29, so we're waiting to celebrate Christmas as a family until Luc and Landry get home and I'm traveling back to my Grammy's with my best friend, Jessica, on December 28 and staying through December 30.

We were also invited to attend a New Years Get Together on December 31 at my brother's (Brent) best friend's (Erica) beach house with her parents and ours. We aren't sure if we're going yet....who knows....I'd like to though.

One of my brother's best friends (Sydney) is in the hospital in Austin. It's not something her family wants publicized, so I'm not able to post it here, but if you could be in prayer for Sydney, Erica, Brent and Sydney's family, I'm sure they would be grateful, and I know I would.

Please watch the video below. It's "Christmas Like a Child" by Third Day. It's a couple years old, but it makes my heart smile. <3

Love, Mere

P.S. I changed back my commenting system to Blogger's system instead of Disqus. Hope this helps y'all out :)

Deb's Christmas

2009-12-06T23:10:00.006-06:00

This time every year, I usually celebrate Christmas with Deb and her family. This was my excitement 2 years ago. This year is the first year in the past 5 years that I am not feeling that excitement. I have no desire to go over there and celebrate this year.

Why??.....GREAT QUESTION!

Deb and her family aren't really involved in my life anymore. They make no effort to be involved and when I make an effort, I am brushed to the side as their horses are now more important. This isn't true for everyone in their family...mainly just Deb and Claire. They have an unhealthy obsession with horses, in my opinion. Loving the animals is one thing...but ignoring people and expecting them to love the animals as you do is another. Horses are great, fine and dandy...just not for me. I do not have the time or the energy to devote to such an animal right now, therefore I will not become emotionally attached as they have.

Do I miss Deb and her family? No...I don't miss the people they are today. I miss the way things used to be. They were my world. I spent all my free time with them. They were and actually still are HUGE parts of my life. I adore them. However, I cannot handle this horse thing anymore. It drives me nuts.

I will not hang out at the barn with them.
I will not go horse accessory shopping with them.
I will not buy anything horse related for them.
I will not engage in horse discussions.
I will not hang out with "barn friends.":

Period. End of discussion.

I will laugh until I cry with them.
I will sing silly songs with them.
I will blare the Dixie Chicks and Rascal Flatts in the car and sing at the top of my lungs with them.
I will shop at Hobby Lobby with them.
I will shop at Target with them.
I will go look at Christmas lights with them in our favorite spots.
I will eat at our favorite Mexican food restaurant, Bravo's, with them.
I will enjoy the quality time I used to LOVE with them...just me and the 5 of them.

Period. End of discussion.

Love, Mere

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-26T22:03:00.002-06:00

This year, like any other year, I have a lot to be grateful for.

Here are my top 25:

1) Blue Skies and Sunshine- That combo makes my days. Just seeing it makes me roll down the windows, crank up the music and smile.
2) Diet Coke- My morning savior.
3) Family- My family, immediate and extended, is amazing.
4) Grammy and Popey- I think the world of these two. They are my world. The end.
5) Theatre- I've been acting since I was 4. I don't know what I'd do without Theatre. It is my rock and my security.
6) Movies- Living vicariously through the characters on the screen is so much fun.
7) Gymboree- I love the people I work with, the clothing I sell and the public I serve. Being at work makes me happy.
8) Coffee- This liquid seriously puts grease in my joints and keeps me moving every morning.
9) Grey's Anatomy- I can't even begin to explain my love of this show. It warms my heart.
10) Desperate Housewives- This show is a great end to my weekends. I experience every emotion they do from the comfort of my couch.
11) The Today Show- I watch it every morning without fail before school. It totally puts me in a good mood.
12) Anni, Roy, Adrienne and Andreas and their friendship- We've known them for years and they have been there through thick and thin. Oh and Roy takes my fabulous pics!
13) Ron- His corny jokes are something to write home about.
14) Aunt Lisa, Tia Erica and Shelly bo belly :) - The ladies who give me my reality check and make me laugh so hard my stomach hurts.
15) Pedicures- They give me some "me" time
16) Mister Carwash and their mad car cleaning skills- My car gets "gross" even though the majority of the people who grace it with their presence compliment its cleanliness
17) my past- As screwed up as it is, it has helped make me who I am today.
18) the US government- As yucky as it is right now, we are still the most blessed country in the world
19) Luc and Landry- They make me so happy
20) Aunt Liz- She has taught me a lot about the real world of law and nursing....Two fields I am very interested in.
21) Debbie, Casey, Cameron, Chase and Claire- While I feel as if they've forgotten me a lot, they still are a huge part of my life and I love them.
22) Mom and Jack- They drive me nuts and stay on my case a lot, but they went to hell and back for and with me.
23) Brent- My brother is my constant best friend. I adore him. He is probably the person I'll miss most when I go to college.
24) Freedom- I am so grateful to live and love in a country with the ability to worship an awesome God freely.
25) God- He is still my everything.

What are you grateful for this year?

Happy Thanksgiving!!
Love, Mere

2009-11-23T22:47:00.010-06:00

I wish I could tell you all the things I've done in the past month-plus that have kept me away from my computer, but that might take me a few days. It's been a chaotic several weeks.

Here's the rundown of my happenings:

**The first weekend in October was my senior homecoming.

**I worked all day at Gymboree on Halloween dressed as a black cat. The kids that came in with their parents to shop were infatuated with me because none of my other coworkers dressed up. That evening, I went trick or treating with two small friends. Adrienne is 4 and Andreas is 2. Their dad, Roy, is the AMAZING photographer that takes all of my pictures. I love him. They were both dressed in Gymboree costumes. I was so proud :)

**I competed in the FFA District Competition on our Radio Broadcasting Team during the second week in November. Our team got 3rd place out of 15 schools. See below.

**This past weekend I went to Corpus Christi, TX for the Texas Thespian Convention. It was a blast!!

Click on the photo collages to see the pics in detail.

Love, Mere

I love you

2009-10-19T23:51:00.002-05:00

Sometimes I wonder....why people do the things they do and how they develop the concept of the way they treat others. I just don't get it. I don't understand how people can treat the people that love them so much like they don't even matter. I'm tired of being dumped on. I'm sick of being treated like I don't matter. I miss the days where people treated me right and like I deserve to be treated. It's not fair to me or anyone else who gets treated poorly.

In closing, this is where I'm at....
"Did you say it? 'I love you. I don't ever want to live without you. You changed my life.' Did you say it? Make a plan. Set a goal. Work toward it, but every now and then, look around; Drink it in 'cause this is it. It might all be gone tomorrow."
~Meredith Grey
Grey's Anatomy

Love, Mere

Oink Oink

2009-10-01T22:29:00.003-05:00

H1N1 aka the swine flu has entered my body. I was totally fine on Monday. I even went as far as to talk to the cast of the show I'm in charge of about staying healthy and getting enough rest.

Tuesday morning hit me like a ton of bricks.

Background: I sleep under an electric blanket every night because my house is kept colder than a meat hanger while I sleep. Texas is hot, keep in mind. October 1 did not bring us any fall-like weather.

Back to Tuesday morning: I woke up under my electric blanket without a bead of sweat.....weird for me. {I usually have a few beads of sweat by the time I awake at 8am because by that time the temp in my house has risen.} I climbed out of bed feeling a tad light headed with freezing feet. {my feet freeze every morning without fail though} I slipped on my monogramed houseshoes and put on my jacket. Chills overcame my body. "Something is not right," I told myself. I trek to my mom's bathroom in search of the thermometer. I put on the probe cover and slip it under my tounge. I look past the tip of my nose and watch the numbers climb. "100.5" was what it said plain as day. I knew I needed to attend school that day due to the fact that I was working on my sociology project. I called my mom and told her my news and she advised me to stay home. Of course, I didn't listen. I'm stubborn and hate make-up work.

I went for 1.5 class periods on tuesday and got sent home with 102.7 fever. I slept the rest of Tuesday. My mom attempted to get me a doctor's appointment, but there were none available.

Wednesday morning (like during the night) my fever broke. I got a doctor's appointment for that afternoon and worked on the work my teachers emailed me. They did the rapid-flu test and it came back positive. My doctor told me I have Swine flu. {oink!}

It doesn't feel pleasent. I'm on the downhill slope, though. Praise the Lord!

Love, Mere

Untitled

2009-09-27T23:03:00.002-05:00

In the month plus I have failed to post to my piece of the Internet, life has inevitably happened. I have simply "gone through the motions" day in and day out, never stopping to ask any questions.

I am already a month into my senior year and I've already been to more school events than I have in my entire high school career. I got a schedule change from Office Aide to an Intro to Agriculture class simply because it had lunch with Brent and Jessica (my brother and best friend). It also is way more interesting than sitting awkwardly in the front office for an hour. The downside is that it is basically a room full of very obnoxious freshman and I am one of three seniors. It's an easy "A" to add to my already 3.5 out of a 4.0 GPA.

When I signed up for that College Transition Math, my school and district failed to explain that they signed a contract to be a part of a pilot program course. The pilot program is a mixture of Algebra I and an Algebra II stepping stone. Now, I'm not sure if I've ever told y'all this, but I'm a very good math student. Should I have taken Pre-Cal? Yes. Would that course have benefited me as a Nurse Practitioner in the long run? Not from what I've heard. Needless to say, I now have 2 off periods in the morning and don't have to be at school until 9:15. This is the life!!

Theatre is another story. Our new director is nice and good at what she does. There will never be the connection between her and I that I had with my other director that quit. As much as I kind of wanted her to leave, I miss her so much. I talk to and see her all the time, but things aren't the same. I've been working my *&^ off on our Fall Play. It's our first full length show (2 Acts) and it's kicking my butt. It's so freaking long. I'm used to a one act. I'm not doing as much this year but I think the play-length is compensating for that. There are a bunch of new people and it's a huge cast. That irritated me at first, but the more I thought about it, the more I felt that some of them might be the future of our thespian troupe. I just have to deal with them and remember that I won't be here forever. This too shall pass.

Gymboree is insane. There's always something to do and I'm always working. Praise the Lord for 2 off periods!

The more I've thought about things, the more I've realized that I'm not "normal." Who am I to define normal though? Is there even really a "normal?" I guess what I'm trying to say is that I don't fit the typical teenager stereotype. I don't party. I don't do drugs. I don't have a million friends and actually prefer a few close ones anyway. I don't have sex with anything just walking with a penis. In fact, I've never had sex and don't intend to anytime soon. That's just me.

I hope all is well with y'all and I'll be catching up with you soon!

Love, Mere

La Escuela

2009-08-26T21:08:00.002-05:00

So I could totally get used to this whole being a Senior thing....I get to sleep a whole hour and a half later provided my little brother keeps his mouth shut when he wakes up an hour before me. I'm such a light sleeper. His obnoxious music never leaves me sleeping. I have become super irritated with this concept of being woken up earlier than I'm supposed to.

My senior schedule is as follows (hope you enjoy my commentary next to each one!) :

1st period~ Off Campus (woo hoo! MORE SLEEP!!)
2nd period~ College Transition Math (my previous math teachers called me lazy for this move because this class is really easy for kids like me....oh well. GPA booster!)
3rd period~ Sociology (teacher has an attitude but other than that it should be interesting!)
4th period~ English IV (Love the teacher! She's amusing!)
5th period~ Intro to Agriculture (GPA booster and it makes my Grammy and Popey proud!)
6th period~ Government (I love everything about this class...the teacher and my friends!)
7th period~ Advanced Theatre (The new director is amazing....I'll do a theatre post at a later date)

The new Miley Cyrus song is stuck in my head....

{"So I put my hands up; they're playing my song...the butterflies fly away. Nodding my head like yeah...moving my hips like yeah...."}

Love, Mere

Senior Year

2009-08-23T21:00:00.002-05:00

I can't believe that.....tomorrow starts my Senior year of high school. I'm not going to sugar coat anything or beat around the bush. I'm a tad sad. My years on this earth have gone so incredibly fast. I remember my first day of kindergarten so vividly. I don't feel as if I treasured all my moments like I should've. I should've stopped more and taken every moment possible in just to enjoy them. I shouldn't have been so stressed about a lot. I should've enjoyed the time I had as a kid more.

They always told me my school years would go fast, but I never believed them. I was always so stuck on the "here and now" that I could never see ahead to the future. My mom could though. One morning as we were sitting in the parking lot my freshman year she told me my high school days would go so fast and before I knew it, I'd be a senior. I quickly denounced that statement, and stated it would be forever. However, I sit typing now knowing I'll be a senior tomorrow. I sit here sad and excited and nervous.

I apoligize for my lack of blogging lately. Gymboree and sleeping have taken up the majority of my time. I love them both dearly, but haven't had time to do much else. We met our new theatre director and she has a Phd. She's super nice and also has 18 kids...7 are her birth kids and she adopted 11. The 11 live with her now. I love her!! '

So....Fill in the blank: I can't believe that______________.
Do a blog post on this topic or just leave me a comment with your answer!!

Love, Mere

My Favorite Things and Friday Fill in

2009-08-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

I got this off of Bec's blog! I haven't done something similar to this in a while, so here's my new and updated list since I'm a year older!! So....may I present to you....my favorite things!

1) My family- While they are not "things", and while they DO drive me nuts on a regular basis, I adore them. They are God's gift to me and I wouldn't trade ANY of them for the world. (although I threaten to :p)

2) God- Without Him, I wouldn't be where I am today. He is my everything.

3) Gymboree- I love working there. The clothes are super cute. The clientelle is awesome. My coworkers are so much fun to work with! I truly love my job there :)

4) Diet Coke, Ice Tea and Coffee- These three drinks keep me going and coherent a lot due to the lack of sleep I get.

5) My car- Heloise the Honda is one of the things I am most grateful for. She gets me everywhere I need to go on very little gas.

6) Being an American- I couldn't ask for a greater blessing. Being an American is such an honor and such a privelage. We enjoy so many freedoms that other countries don't. Thank God for that.

And...here we go!

1. When will gas go back down to under $2?

2. Jon and Kate Plus 8 was the last good book I read or movie I saw or tv show I watched.

3. Everything has its beauty but not everyone sees it.

4. Pinto beans is what I had for dinner last night.

5. I'd like your Diet Coke, please.

6. Sleeping is where I want to be right now.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to a night with my family, tomorrow my plans include babysitting my 4 kids and working at Gymboree and Sunday, I want to go to church, lunch and nap!

Have a terrific and relaxing weekend!!

Love, Mere

Kentucky 2009

2009-08-04T17:19:00.013-05:00

Well Brent and I spent 8 days in the state of Kentucky. As promised, this post will contain pictures of our trip. I have a "play by play" of each day and the pictures go under each "play by play." (providing we took pics that day) Take a look at our trip back in 2007 and see how much we've changed!

*We arrived on Wednesday morning, ate at Chili's and went back to their house to unpack and chill out by playing the card game Canasta.

*On Thursday we went to Huber's to pick peaches and eat lunch. That was probably my favorite part of the trip.

*Friday brought me the best surprise ever! My mom and step-dad sent me a bouquet of one of my favorite flowers. (my other favorite is tulips) We also went to see "The Stephen Foster Story" which is a Kentucky favorite.

*Saturday was my cousin, Marissa's baby shower prep day. It was an all day affair for preparation alone!

*Sunday was the actual shower and we had a house full of people! We had lots of food and lots of family. I am one of nine grandchildren on that side and the 4 oldest are married! (I'm not posting pics of any of my cousins for fear they might kill me!)

*Monday was a chill out day since we went 100mph on Saturday and Sunday.

*Tuesday was my birthday! I went shopping with my grandma and she bought me some clothes from American Eagle for school. She and my Grampy also gave me money to buy myself something special. They surprised me that night by taking me to the Derby Dinner Playhouse to see High School Musical. I was thrilled! What a surprise! My mom also shipped the present from my brother and mailed me the card from her and my step-dad. My Auntie Lisa and Tia Erica sent me the most adorable singing card! I loved it!!

*Wednesday was packing day and Thursday we went home! What a trip!!

What happened to y'all while I was away??

Love, Mere

Stellan

2009-07-27T11:43:00.004-05:00

I don't know how many of my fabulous readers are avid readers of MckMama's blog, but I come to you now, asking you to pray for Stellan and Jennifer.

Jennifer posted this this morning:

"Stellan had a shitty night. Sorry, but he did. So whatever. I'll swear if I want to. And believe me, I am. I've been vomiting all night with sympathy barfing for my son. Stellan is crumpling. He's still in SVT (3 days and counting? I can no longer keep track. How terrible is that?) and his heart is giving way.He is barely urinating because his heart can't keep up anymore to keep his kidneys functioning well and so on. Stellan has a low ph and low bicarbs. He's in some kind of metabolic, acidotic state. His body temperature is 94.7 and he is pale with cold extremities and thready pulses. He really, really needs help to get out of this hole. He began vomiting at midnight and can't keep anything down.I've been doing kangaroo care with him...skin to skin with him on my chest...to try to keep him warm and at peace. The doctors here are trying what they can. We'll talk soon with the Boston doctor again and hopefully he'll have some kind of insight as to what to try next. I'm spent, in all meanings of the word. And so is Stellan."

So, as a personal favor to me, I ask you now to take to your knees and pray for Stellan to the Great Physician, as MckMama calls Him.

You can also follow her on Twitter and of course you can also follow me and I'll update you as I can.

I also added the "Praying for Stellan" button to the right side of my blog. You, too, can add that button to the side of your blog. If you go to MckMama's blog, the code is available on the left side.

Love, Mere

P.S. I am still in Kentucky and my birthday is tomorrow!! YAY!! I'll be back to my nanny position on thursday and will show you some pictures asap. Love ya!!!

Decisions

2009-07-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

It's not hard to make decisions when you know what your values are. ~Roy Disney

I'm not exactly the best decision maker sometimes. My birthday is coming up on July 28 and my parents requested my wish list. For the longest, I wasn't sure of what I wanted. I finally came up with what I wanted, but it did take me a while. For Christmas last year, I couldn't decide for the life of me what I wanted. I ended up not turning in my "Santa list." I got a lot of great stuff, but I learned that I should ask for things I want when someone asks me what I want, instead of expecting them to read my mind.

I've been regretting a lot of decisions recently regarding the people I choose to be around. A good majority of them do not hold my personal values or pretend that they do. They are overly fake around those they don't care for and that bothers me. They call me or text me when they need me. They ignore me when they don't need me anymore. They expect me to save them when they can't save themselves. They expect me to help them when they choose not to help themselves. They hang around people that aren't healthy to be in a relationship with and expect me to do the same.

Newsflash, y'all: I'm not that kind of girl.
I'm a Jesus-loving, babysitting, theatre addict. I don't do as you do and will not do as you do. Get over it. You can't and won't change me.

Changes to bad decisions are being made. Unhealthy, fake, manipulating people are being cleared out. Don't let the door hit ya in the buttocks. Healthy, awesome, Believers are welcome and asked to stick around. :)

Love, Mere

Landry/Schedule

2009-07-20T06:00:00.000-05:00

This is totally not the most amazing picture as far as quality goes because I took it with my iPhone, Iris. This is the 4 year old I am a nanny for. She normally wears glasses but I was bathing her in this picture and I put her hair in a mohawk! Isn't she adorable?! She's super intelligent and is always asking me questions. Landry is an "old soul" like me and never stops talking unless she's being shy. I just love her.

I may not be around as much for a while because I will be out of town, but I will try to update regularly and promise to come back from Kentucky with lots of pictures!!

My schedule is as follows:

July 22- Leave for Kentucky to go visit my other grandparents

July 28- My birthday :)

July 30- Return from Kentucky and back to my nanny job

August 5- Go home and have Thespian Officer Sleepover!

August 9- Drive back to nanny job

August 20- Jessica's Birthday

August 24- Senior year starts!! c/o 2010!! Grammy's Birthday

What does your summer entail????

Love, Mere

Friday Fill in!

2009-07-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

And...here we go!

1. Chalupas and rice make a quick and easy dinner.

2. Eat, Pray, Love is the book I'm reading right now.

3. July brings back memories of my early to mid childhood.

4. The fact that Ellen Pompeo is preggo was obvious.

5. They say if you tell your dreams they won't come true.

6. I always require time to think it over.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going to my Grammy and Popey's, tomorrow my plans include taking care of Luc and Landry and going to church and Sunday, I want to go to the water park!

Have an awesome weekend!!

Love, Mere

"Not Me" Monday

2009-07-13T06:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.

I have totally done a "Not Me" Monday post every week since MckMama started this clever blog carnival.

I have not been insanely busy since I started my new nanny job.

I did not stop by the outlet mall near where I stay to buy some modest pj's at Victoria's Secret and some wonderfully smelling products last Wednesday after I dropped the kids off with their dad.

I did not spend right around $65 on the above unplanned shopping trip all on myself. *cheeks blush*

I am not bad at spending my money on myself.

I did not go to my Grammy's house Wednesday evening to Sunday evening to spend time with her and my Popey.

I do not adore my grandparents more than anyone in the whole world and was not grateful to spend time with them on my days off.

I have not developed an anal retentive tendency with shaving my legs because of my newly acquired bermuda short obsession.

I do not miss the 4 kids I babysit back home.

My birthday is not in 15 days and I am not feeling old. (not on July 28)

I do not let my dirty clothes pile up on the floor in my room where I am a live-in nanny until I get up the gumpshin to take them downstairs to conquer laundry.

I did not hit 25 lbs. lost with WW since January 5, 2009 recently.

Nope, "not me!"

What have you not done?? Comment me or do a "not me" Monday post of your own!!

Love, Mere

Friday Fill in!

2009-07-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

1. The last thing I ate was speghetti and salad for supper last night!

2. Pajamas is something I recently bought. (I am my mother's daughter!)

3. When it rains, it pours!

4. Jess was the first person I talked to today.

5. Hugs are amazing!

6. Food is NOT extra comfort.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to spending time with my grandparents, tomorrow my plans include sleeping late,helping my grandparents, and going to church and Sunday, I want to sleep late and go back to my nanny job because I had the weekend off!

World's Most Amazing People

2009-07-09T20:05:00.005-05:00

The above picture is of the grandparents I speak so fondly of. Popey is on the left, then, ofcourse, is me, and then there is my Grammy on the left. We were just leaving a restaurant near their house over father's day weekend when I had my mom snap this picture. If you haven't already figured out, I adore my grandparents. They mean the world to me. My mom, stepdad and grandparents helped raise me and for them I am so grateful. Grammy and Popey are truly the world's most amazing people.

Grandmother-grandchild relationships are simple. Grandmas are short on criticism and long on love. ~Author Unknown

A grandfather is someone with silver in his hair and gold in his heart. ~Author Unknown

I am a firm believer that every child should know their grandparents. They are the best thing you could share with your children. They love and teach them so much.

I thank God and my mother for my grandparents. They are the best thing that ever happened to me.

Love, Mere

Resurface

2009-07-03T16:24:00.001-05:00

I resurface in blog world. I have been insanely busy drowning in things to do with my new nanny job. I really love it. My kids go to school during the day and while they're at school I get to go to my boss' law office or hang out at their house and do a few light chores.

Every once in a while my kids have to go the their dad's house and when they do I either can hang out at their house and work at the law office, go to my grammy's house about 45 minutes away or drive home. It definately keeps me busy.

I finished "My Sister's Keeper" by Jodi Piccoult and saw the midnight premiere of the movie and I was terribly dissapointed. I won't spoil it but I will tell you that the movie deviates a lot from the movie. If you've read the book and seem the movie, tell me what you thought.

The death of the king of pop, Michael Jackson, was a terrible shock to all around the world. My best friend, Jess, was in Cancun when it happened and she found out 10 minutes after he was pronounced dead. Weird huh? While he lived a rather eccentric life, he was and is a legend and will be for years and generations to come.

The lovely Farrah Fawcett also passed away the same day as the king of pop. A Texas native, Farrah was always known for her gorgeous blonde hair and "wings." She made a name for herself in the original Charlie's Angels and the rest was history. The world will forever miss that beautiful hair and lively spirit.

The brilliant Ed McMahon lost his life before the two above celebrites. While this was before my time, I hear he was best known for his role as Johnny Carson's sidekick. The absence of his comedic relief will leave a void in the world.

As Independence day is tomorrow, let us all remember that freedom doesn't come free and that our forefathers fought so very hard to make the USA as it is today. Pray for our troops, their families and all that are impacted by this war. Enjoy the holiday weekend with family, friends and fun!

Drop me a comment to let me know what's going on and I will pay you a visit as soon as I have another chance to resurface. (which will be soon, promise.)

Love, Mere

P.S. Don't forget to follow me on Twitter. (see the right side of my blog)

Everything happens for a reason/ Commenting

2009-06-22T16:57:00.004-05:00

"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and time to refrain, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace." Ecc. 3:1-8

I truly, in my heart, believe that everything happens for a reason.
Everything happens in it's own time and when it does it is truly meant to be.
God never closes a door without opening a window.
There was a reason I got this nanny job.
I feel I was placed here to help out a single mom with two kids who were hurt and continue to be hurt by divorce.
It's a sad situation much like the divorce my brother and I went through with our parents.
We were 23 months (me) and 4 months (Brent) old at the time.
Keep in mind our divorce wasn't over for 2 years. (That's a long story)
But these kids are 4 and 6 years old.
They are sensitive to everything that goes on around them and my heart breaks because I know what that's like.
At the same time, I feel as if I was put in this position for a reason---to help heal and minister to those kids.
If that's the way He chooses to use me, I'm all His.
I'll take what ever He throws my way.
I'll make Him lemonade out of the lemons He throws to me.
It may not be the easiest batch of lemonade I've ever made, but it's all His.
I'll do it because I know deep in my bones---that everything happens for a reason.

The comments on my blog are now formatted a tad differently. Disqus is something I just discovered through MckMama's blog and I really like the concept of it! You can now comment on The Babblings of Mere with a Twitter account, Blogger account, YouTube account, Wordpress account, and Typepad account. The cool thing is that other readers and I can reply to your comments.

I haven't challenged anyone lately.....so I challenge all my readers this:
What positions have you been placed with or what trials have you been through that has happened for a reason?? Blog about it and comment me when you do :)

Love, Mere

I stay true to my blog title....

2009-06-09T10:34:00.015-05:00

NOTE: This post is sort of all over the place. Enter at your own risk. (and click all pictures to make them larger and easier to see)

School let out for the Summer on June 4th (Thursday). I honestly thought that Summer would bring much needed relaxation time. Instead, it has been crazy busy and almost as bad as when school was in session.

The week school let out (June 1-5), I babysat Cameron (age 10), Chase (age 7) and Claire (age 6). Keep in mind that those links to pics are from 2 summers ago. Those kiddos have grown a lot since then!! They are hysterical and all have 3 very different personalities. I just love them. Here are some pictures of our week. (keep in mind I'm behind the camera lense)

Monday---They ate popcorn and hot cheetos while watching Kit Kitteridge and I didn't take any pics of that.

Tuesday---We went to a kids water park type thing near their house. Cameron decided to stay home. He's not really in to doing things with the "little kids."

Wednesday---We went to the mall to pick up my paycheck from Gymboree and I promised them that if they were good I'd buy them a snack from McDonald's in the food court. So after we picked it up, I took them by the bank so I could deposit my babysitting and Gymboree paycheck. Amazing what a snack will do! They were angels.

Thursday---the last day of school. I got out before them at like 9:30ish and they got out at 10:45. I drove over to pick them up and then went back to my school to get Brent (my brother) at 11:45. I dropped him off at my house and then took the two little munchkins to Whataburger for lunch. We then caught the 12:35 showing of Disney-Pixar's Up!

Friday---I took all 3 kids to the Zoo. It was a tad challenging at times but we all really enjoyed it. All 3 behaved really well and I loved spending time with them all day. After the Zoo, I treated them to Luby's because they were just spectacular. They made me take pics of their favorite animals and of course I took pictures of them too.
On Friday after I dropped my 3C's off at their house, I drove 3 hours to my Grammy and Popey's and then attended my cousin, Alyssa's, graduation an hour away from my grandparents house. Anthony (pictured right) graduated in 2008, Alyssa this year in 2009 (second from right), I'm graduating in 2010 (second from left), and Brent will graduate in 2012 (left).

I'm still at my Grammy and Popey's and will be until Thursday. I have to babysit my 4 fabulous kids on Thursday night to Friday morning. Friday night I have to work at Gymboree. I've been helping my Popey out in his huge vegetable garden.

I also took an au pair (nanny) job in San Antonio for the summer. It's for 2 kids ages 4 and 6. Their mom is in the middle of a divorce. The job is an hour away from my Grammy and Popey's so when I'm off and the kids are with their dad I can go visit them or drive back home to Houston. I'm really excited!!

Well that's all for now....Hope your summers are going well!

Love, Mere

Friday Fill In

2009-05-29T09:27:00.003-05:00

And...here we go!

1. It's cold and hot in my school....and very annoying.

2. I love fried green tomatoes.

3. My favorite health and beauty product is eyeliner.

4. I always nap on a nice long ride.

5. Well, first of all I still have another year in high school and don't always want to answer the question.

6. Grey's Anatomy; those were the cast of characters in a recent dream and it was oh so amazing!!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to my director's going away party I'm coordinating, tomorrow my plans include sleeping late and babysitting my 4 awesome kids that night and Sunday, I want to go to church, lunch and shop!

I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend! School is almost out and Summer is almost here!! YAY!!!!

Love, Mere

The question

2009-05-28T09:55:00.003-05:00

I'm a junior in high school and will obviously graduate next year. We have like 5 days left of school because we get out on the 4th. I'm exempting all my final exams, so basically I'm sitting in class reading as my teachers review my peers for their exams. I honestly believe that sitting and not doing much of anything while at school is more tiring than actually having things to do.

Lately though, I've been getting the question. The much dreaded "what are you going to do when you graduate high school?" and the "what do you want to be when you grow up?" The answer is that I'm going to college (duh!) and probably going to get my Masters degree. I'm going to be a Registered Nurse (R.N.) in either Pediatrics or Labor and Delivery or the NICU. Am I excited? Yes. Would I love to be able to major in Theatre or Education and be a high school director or a Kindergarten teacher? Yes. However, I have to be realistic. If, God forbid, I ever get divorced like the majority of my family is, I would like to be able to put food on the table and keep a roof over my (future) kids' head. Being a High School Theatre Director or a Kindergarten teacher won't do that like I want it to. Don't get me wrong, those are both AMAZING professions but they aren't things that I feel safe doing for financial reasons. (thinking ahead much?!)

I've always wanted to be a Kindergarten teacher or a Nurse in one of the above fields. It takes quite a person to do both, and I feel plenty capable to do either one. Who's not to say I'll be nurse for a long while and when I have kids I'll go and get my teacher's cert. and be a Kinder teacher?? That is always an option. Would it be a challenge? Yes. I always love a good challenge though. Challenges keep life interesting.

I just thought I'd get that out in the open....only because the question has been posed a lot lately.

Love, Mere

Stress.

2009-05-21T20:11:00.005-05:00

Stress.

It's an ugly thing that happens to people with too much to do and not enough time in the day.

Lately, I've been super busy with a lot on my plate.

"Why? Final Exams?", you ask.

"No, I'm exempt.", I reply.

"What is it, then?", you ask.

*Now is the part in which I insert a MONOLOGUE on all that's going on.*

End-of-the-year Theatre banquet is TODAY and I'm in charge of it all. I'm making a slideshow of our year in review. I'm incharge of decorations, food, that slideshow, set-up, take-down....my list goes on.

Stress has brought out my worst. It has made me "short" with people, less tolerant, and very touchy. Ugh. I hate it.

!!!NEWSFLASH!!

MADAM THEATRE DIRECTOR IS LEAVING!!!!! SHE RESIGNED AFTER 7 YEARS!!!

Britt and I are sad that our second mother is leaving. It's going to be super weird walking in that room with her not being there....and super sad. :( I'm not sad for the director-side of her to leave. She has been HORRIBLE for us this year. She has basically been "checked out" all year and Britt and I have run the program. So it's a Jekyll and Hyde situation. Oh well.

So...MORE stress....I'm also in charge of her going away party. It will be this year's officers (I'm an officer) and all ther alumni from the past 7 years. I have to coordinate all that. Her mom, however, is providing the main dishes for us which saves me an arm and a leg in time! YAY!!

All in all, I figure I'll have all summer to rest and school lets out June 4. THANK GOD!!

And...here we go!

1. Moving Madam Theatre director out of her office and our theatre will be a big task.

2. I can't wait to be free.

3. My best quality is my smile :).

4. I am one person that pays attention to details.

5. In nearly 10 years, I have gone from little girl to teenage so fast.

6. SLEEP is what I need right now!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to our theatre banquet, tomorrow my plans include sleeping insanely late and going to watch Adrienne in her recital and Sunday, I want to sleep and attend my boss' surprise party!

Have a restful weekend!!

Love, Mere

	Penelope
	Pippy
	Poppy
	Perry
	Peaches