Happy New Year! 2010 Here we come!

Just wishing all of you a lovely New Years Eve and a great new year! I hope 2010 is a happy year for you and brings you new opportunities and ways to love.

A Big Question

Fate or coincidence?

This seems to be the most basic yet eternal question human beings can ask.

Fate: the notion that everything in our universe is connected and pre-conceived, that everything that is happening right now is supposed to happen and was working all this time to happen.

Coincidence: the other side of the spectrum, that everything just happens with no rhyme or reason and no connection.

I don't know about you, but fate is just magical enough for me to love the idea of it. I've always been a big believer in fate and often think about how this situation led to this one and this one and so on. How we meet certain people who change our lives. And what if the place or the time or situations that led up to you meeting them never happened?

I guess the movie "500 Days of Summer" (great movie by the way!) has got me thinking about this concept. I particularly liked this line from it by Summer.
"I guess it's because I was sitting in a deli and reading Dorian Grey and a guy comes up to me and asks me about it. And now he is my husband. So what if I've gone to the movies? What if I had gone somewhere else for lunch? What if I'd gotten there ten minutes later? It was meant to be and I just kept thinking. Tom was right."

Fate may be an idea some people scoff at because of its spiritual or even religious connotations because you could say God planned everything out, but truly who wants to believe that everything in life is pure coincidence? Isn't fate much more fun to think about?

Happy Holidays!

Those faithful friends are you - my new blogger friends!

Probably my last post for a while so I just wanted to wish all of my friends (in real life and in the blogger world!) a Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, whatever it is you celebrate! You are all fantastic and I hope you have some great times this year.

Unfortunately it seems like a cold has snuck up on me but I'm hoping it won't be too bad. Bad enough I'll probably have to miss my boyfriend's championship hockey game tonight because it starts at 11pm. Last night he scored the game winning goal in a shoot-out and I was so proud!

But I won't let the sniffles ruin my Christmas. Tonight I'm heading to my parents house and having dinner with them and my boy. Tomorrow I'm going to his house to exchange gifts then church and exchanging gifts with my parents and neighbors. Then on Christmas day I see my mom's and dad's sides for the normal Christmas festivities, lots of food and gifts and hopefully good cheer. I must say I am quite excited to wear my new sweater dress and leopard flats to church tomorrow.

This is not quite it, but very close! Mine just has long sleeves and a tie belt.
And I am ridiculously in love with these shoes!

So with that! I leave you with the best wishes and I will be posting again after Christmas! What are all of you doing for the holidays? xoxo

What I'm Lovin' Today!

I'm currently obsessed with this song. Enjoy!

Say "I love you"

"We gotta tell 'em that we love 'em when we've got the chance to say"

Maybe it is my slight OCD or just the fact I've always just had to tell the people I love that I love them. Maybe it is because I'm kinda needy and need to hear the words back. Who knows, all I know is that I never miss a chance to say "I love you" to my family and boyfriend when I leave from them. It is now a ritual that my boy and I have to text each other goodnight and say we love each other.

Does it just make you feel good? To say those words and to hear them back. You never know what might happen. Perhaps it is morbid to say, but you leaving to go somewhere or letting someone else go, you may never see them again. Don't you want your last words to them to be the best ones in our human existence?

So next time you see those you love, don't forget to tell them. They will definitely love to hear the words and it might just make you feel good too. :)

Why are Quiet People Weird? Part 2

Remember my first post on the subject?

A second post stems from my grandma asking me when I got so quiet. Apparently I was much more chatty when I was younger. Who isn't though? Who isn't a chatterbox when they're five? To be honest, I don't remember ever being really talkative. I've always been more introverted and I'm okay with that.

Is there anyone else out there that has a love/hate relationship with thinking? I've always been the kind of person that thinks things through, often too much, and has many daydreams and dreams. A lot of times my world revolves inside my head. This makes me think about my favorite show "Scrubs" and how often the main character, JD drifts off into his own crazy fantasies. While mine are no where near his, mine are more realistic...it still makes me giggle. I often daydream about the past or the future, wondering where my life will turn out. This is a great thing to do when you're bored in class! ;)

But is it really a bad thing? Some people seem to think so. But I say no way. Thinkers, introverts, shy people...like me, I don't think they are weird at all. Sometimes you need people to think things through, think about things before they speak, and simply daydream. If we lived in a world full of chatterboxes...how crazy would that get? Sometimes there needs to be a listener and I am more than happy to be one.

The downside of being an introvert and an avid thinker...over-thinking. I've been known to ruin relationships or chances by over-thinking. I think things through TOO much instead of simply taking chances and living life. So here's to introverts, the ones who listen, who take the time to think about things before jumping into them, who just want to have alone time with a good book. I'm one of you! :)

"Sometimes we forget who we got, who they are, or who they're not. There is so much more in love, than black and white." - Amos Lee

A Note to Myself

Here's a note to myself (to be used in a future date when I am feeling gloomy, sad, or just don't feel like being me):

• There are people out there that find me beautiful. They don't see my flaws like I do. They somehow see things I can't.
• My parents and my family love me. They show it in different ways but there are a handful of family members, especially my mom and dad I can always count on. My grandma prays for me also and that is comforting.
• Even when I don't feel like it, I have friends that care about me and think I'm great. No matter how busy life gets, I know I've found best friends who will still be there to make me laugh and share good and bad times with.
• I truly believe I will be successful one day. Fate will work it's magic with me. I've found what I love and that is all that matters.

I adore Frankenmuth!

Just a wish of good end of the semester finals to all you students and good luck to everyone with pre-holiday plans! I'm heading to Frankenmuth tomorrow and I am so excited to see the lights at night. I've always gone during the day and never really had a chance to see it all lit up for Christmas. Here are some pictures of what I might enjoy tomorrow... Enjoy!

Tell me all about your upcoming plans. :)

I can't really describe it...but I can try.

Creativity struck me. :)

I can't really describe what it's like to be with you, but I can try.
Every time I see you, a wave of nervousness and comfort wash over me. Yes, I know these are two completely different emotions, but it is what happens. You remember that feeling of a first date, the butterflies in our stomachs? I still get that. I still get butterflies. But when they come, your touch comforts me. Your voice soothes me.
Every joke, laugh, smile, talk gets tucked deep into my heart of hearts to be unfolded at night when I'm alone. At night, those moments before sleep, I think of your face. I remember all the things you promised me. I remember inside jokes and soft kisses. I always hope to see your face as the last thing before I fall into sleep.

Random thought...

Just watched part of a VH1 special: 100 top songs of the 90's! I am definitely a 90's girl and knew almost every song I saw for the hour I watched it...which had me thinking. What is your favorite 90's song?

From the list I had to say I was lovin' Jewel's "Who Will Save your Soul?" But there sure were some good Hootie & the Blowfish, Sugar Ray, etc.

Ups and Downs of Apartment Living

First of all, thank you for your kind words about my lack of postings/finals. I am happy to report 1 done, 2 more to go! I also snagged an internship for next semester today! Woo! Wish me luck with the rest of my week... I'm glad I got around to writing an entry today though. :)

Here's an update on my first apartment. I must say, sometimes I have a love/hate relationship with living on my own...but for the most part I love it. Here's a list of reasons I love it and reasons I hate it. Perhaps you agree!Here's a picture of part of my bedroom, what do you guys think?

Love it!
1. Being on my own, being more independent and knowing I can do all these things my mom used to do for me. 2. Not having to tell someone where I'm going and what I'm doing. 3. More privacy. 4. It's fun having a roommate! As much as I love doing things with my mom, it is just not the same. Having a friend there to do spontaneous Walmart trips at 12am is great. 5. It is also fun to have a place to call mine...to have my own bathroom and my own things!

Hate it!
1. I do miss my parents. I definitely find myself being closer to them and love going to see them. It helps when I don't talk to them as much, there is most time spent being happy with each other, which is great. But sometimes I really miss my house. 2. I miss my doggie! She is so sweet and I miss cuddling with her at night. 3. Noisy neighbors! Before it was my dad's snoring keeping me awake at night and now I can enjoy early morning jam sessions, heavy footsteps ALL THE TIME, and random loud talking. 4. Having to cook for myself, clean everything, do laundry...things my mom did for me now I have to do. It gets annoying but I know I am proud of myself for doing these things for myself. 5. Being closer to school is great but I feel like I am constantly driving elsewhere because I am now farther away from places I go to like to babysit, work, see my parents, etc.

A quick note!

I apologize for the lack of postings lately. I have been too busy. Yesterday for example, I babysat from 8am-2:30 then went to work after until 8pm. I totally crashed afterwards. Next week I have finals, so hopefully I can squeeze in a post between studying, but if not, see you guys in Christmas break!

In the meantime, check out my store on Amazon. Lots of old CDs, books, and random things... :)

Jumping on the Christmas Bandwagon...

Here's a list of things I love about Christmas and can't wait for:

1. Walking downtown to see Christmas lights and seeing them in neighborhoods.

2. Decorating!

3. Snuggling with hot cocoa in my hand.

4. Snuggling in general (preferably with my boy!)

5. Christmas tunes and movies. I love the old Christmas movies with the clay people. "Year Without a Santa Clause" is my favorite!

6. Giving presents.

7. Okay, okay...receiving them too. ;)

8. Break from class!

9. Everyone just seems happier.

10. Snow falling lightly on Christmas Eve. I always hope for this.

What do you love about this time of year?

Just Something Fun...

If you come across this, why don't you do it too? I love learning more about my blog friends. :)

1. I've come to realize that my chest-size...
haha, what an interesting question. it is perfectly fine.

2. I've come to realize that my job...
has lead me to great places (outside of work), I've made some great friends, but is otherwise...blah.

3. I've come to realize that when I'm driving...
I like to listen to music very loud.

4. I've come to realize that I need....
lots of love in my life.

5. I've come to realize that I have lost...
my mind at times, but it always comes back. ;)

6. I've come to realize that I hate it when...
people are inconsiderate.

7. I've come to realize that if I'm drunk...
N/A

8. I've come to realize that money...
is something everyone needs, but shouldn't trump happiness.

9. I've come to realize that certain people...
just do not think.

10. I've come to realize that I'll always...
be there for people I love.

11. I've come to realize that my sibling(s)...
I don't have any siblings. Unless you count Hannah (my adorable doggie!) ;)

12. I've come to realize that my mom...
is extremely amusing and one of my best friends.

13. I've come to realize that my cell phone...
is always with me.

14. I've come to realize that when I woke up this morning...
I realized I always wake up around 10-11 if I can sleep in.

15. I've come to realize that last night before I went to sleep...
I was waiting for a text but was too tired...

16. I've come to realize that right now I am thinking...
about how bored I am.

17. I've come to realize that my dad...
will always be annoying at times, but really loves me a lot.

18. I've come to realize that when I get on Facebook...
I keep coming back. Ooops, addicted.

19. I've come to realize that today...
was pretty good. I got $32 back on a coat I just bought because it went on sale, got a lot of school work done, and got a haircut. And watched my favorite show.

20. I've come to realize that tonight...
is just one of those nights with nothing to do.

21. I've come to realize that tomorrow...
will hopefully be good. I get to see my boy!

22. I've come to realize that I really want to...
be done with this semester! Almost!

23. I've come to realize that the person who is most likely to repost this is...
A fellow blogger! I hope!

24. I've come to realize that life...
is beautiful and ugly all at the same time, it just depends how you look at it.

25. I've come to realize that this weekend...
will be glorious. No work!

26. I've realized the best music to listen to when I am upset...
When I'm angry: Taking Back Sunday, Brand New...something loud. When I'm sad: City and Colour, or anything soft and melancholy.

27. I've come to realize that my friends...
are great. Most of my best friends I don't see for 9 months out of the year, but they are always a phone call away and I truly love them.

28. I've come to realize that this year...
was not too shabby.

29. I've come to realize that my EX is...
really different now than when I dated him.

30. I've come to realize that maybe I should...
start working out.

31. I've come to realize that love...
is amazing.

32. I've come to realize that I don't understand...
people.

33. I've come to realize my past...
is the past.

34. I've come to realize that parties...
aren't really my thing.

35. I've come to realize that I'm totally terrified...
of my future.

36. I've come to realize that my life...
isn't as bad as I sometimes think.

37. I have come to realize that I...
am simply me and that's all I can be.

My Will Ferrell List.

Confession: I've always had an odd obession with Will Ferrell. Most people will say you either love him or you hate him, and I think he's hilarious. While I admit he's had a few flops (Semi-Pro was horrible!) I love most and own quite a bit of his movies. You might have also heard that he's the most overpaid actor right now. Here's my list for his top rolls.

1. Ron Burgundy in "Anchorman". One of my favorite movies. It is just silly enough for me to love it.

2. Harold Crick in "Stranger Than Fiction". Definitely a different and more serious role for Ferrell and he did it fabulously.

3. Buddy in "Elf". Who doesn't love this Christmastime favorite? "I love smiling, smilings my favorite!"

4. Brennan Huff in "Stepbrothers". A delightfully ridiculous comedy. Ferrell must love acting like an idiot and that is why I love him.

5. All of his work on SNL. If you haven't seen him do his comedy sketches, check them out. He was a beloved cast member for years.

So what do you think? Love Will? Hate him? Who is your favorite actor? Like any of these movies? Send me some comments, friends! :)

Have a great holiday!

Just wanted to say Happy Thanksgiving, friends! Gobble, Gobble!

Might not be able to post for a few days...so check out some old entries! Thanks! :)

Teen Bitten in Neck while Watching "New Moon"

No, this article isn't about Tyra. But this picture deems appropriate.

You heard my headline right. Read this article. Guaranteed to make you giggle, especially "Twilight" lovers.

Favorite quote: “I am upset that someone is that creepy, but I’m not going to let it ruin my day,” she said.

Way to be optimistic, Twihard, way to be optimistic.

On another similar note, I'm going to see "New Moon" tomorrow night! Yay!

Love Notes <3

Okay, okay, here's another post on how wonderful my boyfriend is. I hate to brag, but...I just have to. ;)

But here's the scoop, if you have a great boy, you better brag right back!

We've been dating for almost a year and a half (that day will be Christmas Eve!) and ever since we started dating we've sent each other "love notes" through Facebook messages. I loooove these. Basically it is an ongoing list of the things we love about each other. Some are more personal than others or contain inside jokes, but I'll include one he just sent me today. They make me smile so big. :)

I love kissing you so much. I love how romantic you are. I love how we rarely fight. I love that we can spend a lot of time or not a lot of time and can still not miss a beat. I love that you are on top of everything even though I am a procrastinator. I love that you come over even if it's only for a few hours. I love you so much and can't wait to see you again tomorrow. :)

So what do you and your boy do that is just downright adorable? Do tell!

Hi Friends, Just a few Notes and Ideas...

I would love to be able to have a few sponsors on my blog. As many of you know, I am just starting out, but I have been getting more and more readers every day. I'm offering pretty cheap ad slots and would be willing to be pretty negotiable, you can keep your ad up for as long or as little as you want to pay.

If you know of any small businesses or bloggers who want a little advertising, please do encourage them to send me an email at lrstewar@gmail.com. If you've stumbled upon my blog and are interested yourself, send me an e-mail too. It can't hurt to chat with me and we can negotiate. :)

Also, I'm thinking of coming up with a contest to see who can get me more readers, sponsors, or opportunities to write for other websites. Not sure about those details yet, but would anyone be interested in doing this? I'm just trying to think of smaller details and what the person would win.

What I'm Lovin' Today!

As you may know I am a huge Scrubs fan. I've seen every episode probably more than twice and I am slightly nervous for the new season. Not only will most of the cast be gone, Zach Braff (JD) is only signed on for the first six episodes and there are new main characters. This could either be the same funny Scrubs I know and love with a few new people or be completely ruined. We shall see... but here is a sneak peek poster and what I'm lovin' today. Season 9 of Scrubs starts on December 1st on ABC!

Fallen Princesses

I just found some wonderful artwork by Dina Goldstein. (Actually, I found out about her while perusing my mom's "More" magazine, haha!) The concept is simple. You always think of Disney Princesses as having perfect lives. Well, she took a spin on this and "Fallen Princesses" was born. Its kind of disturbing in a funny sort of way. Anyways, here are some of her pictures. Here's the link to read more about them and see them all.

Christmas Break is Dancing in My Head....

Okay, so I will admit, Christmas break is dancing through my head right now. I have 7 actual days of class left (4 drawing classes, 3 Bible as Lit. classes, 1 Stress management class, and 1 media editing class, and some online homework...yes I'm crazy!). Already I am so excited to be off from school for a bit, having an interview for an internship for next semester, the town nearby's Christmas Parade, seeing all my friends who go away to school, and just many more Christmas festivities and more relaxing and down-time.

Here's my Christmas list too!

1. (500) Days of Summer on DVD

2. The Hangover on DVD

3. The Smiths collection CD

4. American Eagle Gift Card

5. Something Blue by Emily Giffin

6. Starbucks Gift Card

7. New winter coat (I want to pick, I need a warm, cute one!)

8. I-Tunes Gift Card

9. Target Gift Card

10. Money for a massage or gift card to LUV manicure place

11. Any cute scarves and matching gloves (The gap has cute scarves)

12. The Proposal on DVD

13. Season 2 of Greek on DVD

14. Socks

15. Subway Gift Card

So by now you should know I'm addicted to romantic comedies, some favorite stores, Subway, and a few other things...I also added some books by Sophie Kinsella that I don't own. (Check her out, her books are hilarious! She does the "Confessions of a Shopaholic" series.) Hmm to mention the picture above...I'm not a huge Jared fan, but he is a cutie! (He's from "Gilmore Girls" and now "Supernatural".)

So what about all of you? What are you excited for this break? What's on your Christmas list? :)

I love my readers!

I just want to say thanks to all my readers. You guys have no idea how happy I am to be part of the "blogosphere" and get followers and comments from all of you guys. My only dream for this blog is to touch people with my words and have fun doing so. So thanks for reading and letting me explore my creative outlets. You're all amazing! Please keep reading, commenting, and sharing my blog with others. Thanks! :)

Love is Watching Someone Die.

Love is watching someone die.
Who's gonna watch you die?

I thought the picture went along with those lyrics. Both are beautiful, yet haunting to me. Something you don't want to think about too often. Occasionally, I am griped with fear that someone close to me will die. This of course, is true.

But doesn't this just make you want to cry? We don't like to think of our lives or the lives of the ones we care for most with an expiration date. We want to be with each other forever and the thought of being separated at any given date is scary. But also, this can be a good thing. This fear can really allow you to live if you let it. Instead of feeling crippled by it, let this knowledge help you embrace life.

Spend more time with the ones you love instead of letting work or excuses get in the way. Do things you want to because you may never get another chance. Live every day like it is your last. That fear of dying just may cause you to live.

Love is...

Tonight I'd like to share with you all one of my favorite quotes. I'm not sure where it's from but I've always thought it described my relationship. :)

“I don't pretend to know what love is for everyone, but I can tell you what it is for me; love is knowing all about someone, and still wanting to be with them more than any other person, love is trusting them enough to tell them everything about yourself, including the things you might be ashamed of, love is feeling comfortable and safe with someone, but still getting weak knees when they walk into a room and smile at you.” ♥

What is love to you?

What I'm Lovin' Today!

Any other "Big Bang Theory" lovers out there? I just love this picture.

Plans as Prayers

"It came to me then that every plan is a tiny prayer to Father Time."

I love that lyric from one of my favorite bands, Death Cab for Cutie. Isn't it so true? (In the version in my head, I think of Father Time as God...but that can be anything you wish...)

We make all these plans not knowing what tomorrow will really bring. An opportunity you thought was there could vanish. A newer, more exciting one could surprise you. You just never really know. I constantly have to remind myself this because I am definitely a planner. I love my to-do lists and making specific plans for all day, all week, all month.

So make your plans, but don't be too frazzled if they get messed up or have to change. Go with the flow. I know I have a hard time with this, but I'm learning. We all have to learn to just accept things as they come and take things with a positive attitude. Wouldn't life be so much better if we took our plans as tiny prayers? If we said, "Hey I'd love to see my friend tomorrow, but if I can't, everything will still be okay. Right?"

Right. :)

Where Do They Go?

"Where do they go...the things we think and feel but never say..."

This quote is from one of my favorite old shows, Everwood. For some reason it has always stuck with me. Where do they go? Those thoughts that you'd never tell anyone, the things we always want to say to someone but never have the guts to say, those things you feel deep in your heart but are too ashamed to say. I like to think all of these things have a place in our hearts, deep inside where no one sees but you.

Some of these may be regrets, secrets, or special memories, but they make us who we are. Life is not simply events we've lived, words we've said, and places we've been...there's more to us. Life is also the things inside our hearts, even things we'd never tell a soul. No one else knows, but us. And isn't that what makes us all unique? So make sure you keep things to yourself. No one has to know your whole life story, but you.

Sponsors?

Hello friends,

I am thinking of accepting sponsors. If you or you know of someone (another blogger or a company) that would like me to advertise them on my blog, e-mail me.

lrstewar@gmail.com

Thanks!

Lauren

What I'm Lovin' Today!

I love Taylor Swift. This proves she's not only cute and talented, but funny...here's her SNL monologue from last night. Enjoy! :)

Lovely Blog award...

The lovely Sonia has given me a blog award! It was a surprise and thank you, girl! :) It looks like if you get this award you must award 15 other bloggers, so here is my list of blogs I like and think deserve this award! I think Sonia first of all deserves another aware, so here's a list of another 14...

* Nina

* Celia

* Green Ink

* Michelle

* Moose

* Lacey

* Becca (my friend and new blogger! Send her some love!)

* Liz

* Apt. 34

* Hello, friend

* Jo

* Laura (Another friend new to the blogosphere!)

* Melina

* TSS

Send these ladies some love. And don't forget to check out my tweets and follow me, I am new to this whole "tweeting" thing. @lrstewar. Thanks loves!

3D Art Truck Advertising Style

Okay so, my Grandpa sends me forwarded e-mails from time to time and I got a really cool one yesterday. I am so intrigued by any 3D art and these were definitely interesting...check out a few of these and if you want them all, I can forward the e-mail to ya (just leave your e-mail address). :)

Social network with me!

Just wanted to say I'm back on Twitter. If you look above, you can see my Twitter account and/or become a fan of me on Facebook. I'd love to see all my blog friends on these social networking sites too!

@lrstewar

So send me some love! You might get some right back. ;)

<3 Lauren

What's on Your Playlist?

First off, let me tell you about my music taste. Here's a list of my recent downloaded songs and it will give you a clue on how diverse it is, hehe. (An idea for those who don't like to illegally download music: I save up my loose change and go to a Coinstar machine. You can turn your change into an I-Tunes gift card! I love doing this!) Anyway....

1. Sweet Dreams - Beyoncé
2. Run This Town - Jay Z (feat. Rihanna & Kanye West)
3. Savior - Rise Against
4. See You Again - Miley Cyrus
5. Someday - Rob Thomas
6. Last Night I Dreamt That Somebody Loved Me - The Smiths
7. Breaking - Anberlin
8. Rusted from the Rain - Billy Talent
9. Heaven Can Wait - We the Kings
10. Belle of the Boulevard - Dashboard Confessional
11. Relator - Pete Yorn & Scarlett Johansson
12. All the Right Moves - OneRepublic

I love listening to different kinds of music. While I'll admit, my favorite is more low-key, alternative type music...I have to listen to most anything. I like pop, country, rock...for me, it doesn't matter what genre the song fits into, it is just if I like it or not. I'm not going to say I have all country music...if I like certain songs "labeled" country.

So what about you? Do you like many different types of music or just one? And I'll leave you with a beautiful song from The Smiths, a band I have recently gotten into.

My first Limo ride!

Okay so...my first limo ride wasn't too glamorous. It wasn't for Prom or Homecoming, or a wedding, or a party...it was simply a surprise for my grandmother's 77th birthday. It was adorable - she was SO excited!

And so was I. :) Just the thought of riding in a limo, people staring wondering if you're "somebody". Feeling all glamorous, even if you're just riding around town with your parents, aunt, uncle, and grandma. And it was all smooth sailing until...

BAM! All of us jerked around. Someone rear-ended us! We couldn't believe it...they couldn't see this huge thing? Luckily there was no damage, but it will probably be the source of a good joke for years to come. "Remember that time we were in a huge white limo and that jerk forgot to break...." Hehe.

So here's a picture of some of us and the limo driver, good 'ole Walt.

So what about YOU? Any good limo stories? I am intrigued...

Happy Halloween loves!

Have a great Halloween guys, be safe and eat lots and lots of candy. ;)

Just wanted to share one of my favorites.

We took this at a movie theater and I just love these pictures, especially the last two. :)

My 100th Post!

In honor of my 100th post, I'd like to make a short list of things I'd like 100 of... ;)

1. Dollars, duh!

2. Kisses from my favorite boy...oh and hugs too!

3. Opportunities for greatness and success.

4. Blogger friends and followers!

5. Days of fun with friends.

What would you like 100 of?

In case you were wondering...

I am 20 - feeling like an adult but also still too young.

I wake up every morning and check my e-mail, Facebook, and blogs.

I am addicted to chewing gum.

I am afraid my life won't turn out the way I hope. My dream is to work from home writing for websites and eventually write my own novel. I want to be married and live in a nice home. I am on the fence about children, but I know I would be a great mom one day since I love taking care of people.

The greatest feelings I ever get are when I feel loved. Loving someone and being loved in return is life.

I want someone to be affected in a good way by my writing and my blog.

I love shopping but I hate spending money.

I've always hated school, but I love the feeling of accomplishment and doing well. I worry about what I will do when I graduate.

I plain worry too much and get nervous a lot.

Only a few people truly know me and I can be my total self around them.

I am extremely goofy and silly and love to laugh but most people wouldn't know.

I am quiet.

I love Subway sandwiches and frozen yogurt and snacky type food.

Some days I wish I could be good at sports but most days I don't care.

I want more time to start doing Yoga again.

I am a lot of things, but mostly I am just me.

P.S. Click back to my previous post - I still need your help! Thanks loves.

I need YOUR help!

Hi friends,

I have a question for you all today. Give me some tips on getting more boys and girls to read this blog. I am hoping to start getting sponsors soon, but first I need more people interested in my blog.

Please give me any tips you have. I am talking...places I can contribute my writings to send traffic from there to here, ideas for writings you all and others might like to read, anything that would be helpful.

Thank you so much!

Past, Present, or Future Thinker?

Have you ever heard that there are two types of people (based on how you live your life and where your thoughts are...)?

The first are past people, the woulda-coulda-shoulda folks. Those are the people who dwell in the past and constantly wonder what they could have done better or how their lives would be different now if they just changed that one thing. These are the people who regret. Who live life wondering about their past experiences.

And then there are the future people. These people constantly plan and think about their futures. What they will do, who they will be with, what will happen... and they do everything they can to make sure their future lives up to the one in their head. They worry, worry, worry about anything and everything.

I must say, I fall into the latter. Most of my thoughts are focused on that paper that is due, the assignments I have left, the rest of my day, the rest of my week, and the rest of my life. Silly isn't it? I find myself having difficulty living in the moment. I suppose there should be a third type, the person that lives in the moment. In my eyes, those people are very rare and if you happen to meet one, you should really learn something from them.

So whether you are a past thinker, a future thinker, or the lucky one who lives in every moment...think about it. Think about the way you think and decide if you're happy with it, because well, if you're not, go ahead and change it! You can do it, I promise.

So what type of thinker are you? Do you like being this way? Fill me in friends!

Commenting!

There was a problem with leaving comments on my blog, thanks to Sonia for letting me know! But now it should be fixed so please comment away... :)

Relient K Love Obession

Do any of you have that certain band or music artist that you seem to have loved forever?

I sure do. Their name is Relient K and I remember first hearing about them in sixth grade. I actually started listening to them because a boy I liked told me I should. But once I started, I loved their music. By now, I've seen them in concert around five or six times and even met them once! This post comes from my obsession with their latest CD after I had forgotten about them for a year or so.

So check them out, here is one of the songs I like on their newest CD "Forget and Not Slow Down".

Enjoy! And what is a band that you have loved FOREVER?

The Most Hated Family in America

This one could turn into a rant folks. Have you heard of the Phelps family? No, not Michael Phelps the famous swimming champion...the family in Kansas who protests dead soldier's funerals. You heard me right: a family with little kids who go and protest funerals.

Here is the start of a documentary on the family by BBC (if you're interested all 8 clips are on YouTube...and the journalist doing the documentary is amusing as well.)

It pains me to see these kinds of people are alive and well in America. They believe that America is "doomed" because we allow gays to live and be free here. Their signs often include derogatory statements such as "God hates fags". First of all, I hardly think God would use an offensive word like "fag" nowadays. Second of all, this family seems to completely change the Bible to fit their ignorant views. They tell the journalist that they are the only people who are going to Heaven and the rest of us are doomed to Hell and that no one knows the Bible like they do. They have the righteous hats on their heads and seem to think God is in their ears.

In the documentary, they were also seen protesting a Jewish synagogue. Their reasoning? Jews are "fags" because they killed Jesus. Ummmm, hello? Jesus was a jew. And I'm pretty sure that whole Jesus dying on the cross thing...yep, the Bible tells us that needed to happen for our sins to be cleared today.

As for their signs, they were completely ridiculous. Some had Bible verses at the bottom so I had the liberty of looking up one. Psalm 2:4 was at the bottom of a sign that had God laughing at "fags". The verse is as quoted: "The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them." I can't give you a definite definition of this quote, but no where do I see any word on homosexuality.

It simply distresses me that these people are so ignorant and will not listen to anyone else. And how much they hurt others without really realizing it. I think of all the mothers whose sons have died at war and how devastated they must be. And to have these people galavanting with their signs, protesting your son's death...it is just plain awful. My only wish and hope for our world is that people have more respect for others. If they put themselves in another's shoes and listen to what the world is telling them. The world is not always in black and white. I call myself a Christian and I understand the Christian world is often against homosexuality. But, I am also a human. I know people who are gay and I don't judge them for that. I see it as love and nothing else. I don't think you can help who you love and I wish people would just live their own lives and stop judging others so much.

So what do you all think about the Phelps family or this topic?

Halloween Havoc?

Ever seen a pumpkin PC? I haven't either! This looks silly, but entertaining...

I currently have no plans for Halloween! How boring! I haven't even gotten around to getting a costume because I don't think I'll have anywhere to wear it.

My roommate and I do have a pumpkin to carve though and I am excited to find some time to carve it. We decided on a "Bugaboo" sketch and it's a funny one.

My boyfriend wants to go to a haunted house soon...and I must say, I hate being scared! I am not so much looking forward to doing that. I went to my first haunted hayride and house EVER last year and it was fun screaming back at those silly ghouls but I am not sure I want another experience...

What about you? Anyone have any really cool plans for Halloween? And I'll be sure to post pictures of our pumpkin once we carve it. :)

Casino lovin'!

Hello friends!

I am writing today while back in the grind of class and work. Let me tell you, it feels terrible. Yesterday I played hooky from class and went and had my first casino experience. My boyfriend and I drove a few hours to the nearest casino and spent a few hours there. I played my first slots and watched him play Roulette. I am a pretty lucky girl! We had these $50 gift certificates to use and the casino gives you $10 to sign up for a premium play card. So basically, I had a free $60 to spend and ended up taking home right around $57...not too shabby. It was just a great day to spend with my boy and I loved getting away from everything and just having a day to spend with him and no distractions. I completely forgot about work problems, pointless homework that was waiting for me, and classes. I think everyone needs a day like that every once in a while.

What about you? Have you ever played hooky from class or work to have a completely fun, random day? Tell me about it! :)

Hello friends!

First off, I'd still love to hear from you. Tell me what you want me to write about, tell me what you like/dislike about my writing...anything!

Secondly, haven't posted in a while because I have been really sick. I always seem to get the worst colds ever around this time of year. Yuck! Luckily, I am feeling better today, but being sick has given me writer's block. Hopefully I will be feeling inspired sometime soon.

Also, check out my posts on Associated Content. There are some posts from my blog and some specifically for the website. Anyone have any other websites I could post to?

Alright now...I'm off to keep watching one of my favorite shows "The Big Bang Theory"!

Don't Forget to Keep Commenting!

http://lrstewart0711.blogspot.com/2009/10/it-is-time-to-hear-from-you.html

Go back there! :)

Per Request from Sonia: 10 Things that make me Happy! :)

10 Things that Make me Happy! :)

1. A hot shower. There is nothing like a hot shower when you're feel crummy. Sometimes if I feel sore or like I'm getting sick of just plain gross, a hot shower always makes me feel human again.

2. My parents. I appreciate them even more now that I'm not living with them. They do so much for me. My dad always makes sure my car is running smoothly. My mom sends me cards in the mail just to say hi. They are paying for my rent and I can't thank them enough for that. Plus, they're just funny and I like going over there to see them.

3. My boy! Whenever I am having a bad day, all I have to do is hear him call me beautiful or tell me he loves me and I am instantly feeling better. He truly is a better boyfriend than I could ever ask for. I am still showered with love after over a year and that's amazing.

4. My friends/roomie/neighbors! All the people that put up with me, who make me laugh, who help me out, who hang out with me, who miss me, who love me...I love them and I love the times I get to spend with them.

5. My rat, Buddy and my dog, Hannah. I love animals; I always have. I miss my dog dearly because she is a sweetheart and now I have a new "buddy" to play with and I have already noticed him helping me with my stress.

6. Getting things done. This may sound weird...but I cannot relax unless I have things done. Last night, I tried printing my homework and it didn't come out. I thought, "Hey, I'll do it later, I'll just relax and watch TV now.." but I couldn't. I had to print that darn thing. Call me OCD, but I feel happiest when I am done with my obligations and have time to do nothing.

7. Funny TV shows and movies. The kind that make you forget about your problems and just laugh and enjoy yourself.

8. Writing. Of course, while sometimes writing is a drag (think class!), I enjoy it most of the time and I enjoy that I excel in it. I love writing in this blog, hearing from readers, and getting my thoughts out there and having people enjoy what I say.

9. Reading. One of my favorite parts of the day is getting on my PJ's, slipping under my covers, and diving into my latest novel. It is not only relaxing but I get sucked into another world. Last night, I even had a dream I was the character in the book I am reading now...it was a bit crazy.

It's a great book so far: check it out (click on the book cover).

10. And last but not least, random acts of kindness. Whether it is doing it for someone else or having someone do it to me...those times where you don't expect someone to give you the rest of their candy bar, send you a nice letter, or open a door for you. If only everyone could do these things more often...how amazing would our world be?

New friend!

Yes, I have a new friend. The furry kind. I bought myself a rat yesterday. Before you go "ewww" or "Rats are disgusting"... listen up. I don't care. I think they're cute. I've always wanted one. I am definitely a dog person, but dogs aren't allowed at my apartment building. I'm allergic to cats and rabbits and I'm not a fan of a few other pets out there. So I decided on a rat. They are curious, friendly, can learn tricks and their names, and mine likes to cuddle.

His name is Buddy. Here, you can meet him too...


Any other rat owners out there? I'd love some tips or cute stories!

Today Buddy decided he loves my books and got stuck on top of my dictionary. :) More rat stories to come...

It is time to hear from you!

On this entry, throw me a post. I don't care if it is a cool picture, a random thought, an idea for a post you want me to write, or whatever. It can be anything. I would love to hear from anyone who reads this!

Thanks and I look forward to reading your comments. <3

Money Obsessed Culture.

Yes, it is time for another one of my rants on things I would love to change about our culture as well as myself. You may think I am a hypocrite for ranting on something I do myself, but that's the beauty of writing. I hope to inspire or invoke a change in myself as I write...and if anyone else is inspired, that is just a bonus and would make me very happy.

So, have you noticed that our lives revolve around money? More couples fight about money than most things. We stay in crappy jobs just so we can survive and eat. We want the newest and shiniest toys because we think spending loads of money will make us the happiest. We marvel at those with lots of it and aspire to be one of those people who has millions and can sit around all day.

I wish this wasn't so. I wish everything didn't come at a cost. I wish we didn't have to think about money every day, some people every minute. I wish I didn't feel like all our lives revolve around stupid little pieces of paper that get us what we want, what we need.

So, I am hoping for myself to save more and spend less. I think that every time I get the shopping bug, I will try to distract myself by doing something that costs nothing but makes me happy. I'll try to do something that makes someone else happy. I'll make sure the ones I love know they are loved.

What I'm Lovin' Today!

The new Paramore CD - Brand New Eyes. Check out one of my favorites on the album.

How Much of Your Life...?

How much of your life is spent being with the people you love most? Spending time with people who care about you or doing something you genuinely love and that makes you happy?

If you're like me, not a whole lot.

Why do we let crappy jobs, ridiculous homework assignments, and bad people take up so much of our time?

I find myself wondering this and thinking it is time for a change. A quote I love is "If you hate something, change it." Easier said than done.

Now, I'm not saying quit school because that is one of those things you just have to get through or let go of a job before you find something else... don't become a poor bum on me! But if you are unhappy with something and it is taking over your life, look into doing something about it. It sure is about time I did.

Inside all of us...

This post comes inspired from the movie trailer for "Where the Wild Things Are". While I am slightly creeped out every time I see this, the words that came across the screen intrigued me. It went like this...

"Inside all of us is everything we've ever SEEN."

"Inside all of us is everything we've ever DONE."

"Inside all of us is everyone we've ever LOVED."

How true is that?

We are essentially made up of our memories. While some memories fade, most of them are stored within us and make up who we are. It goes to the age old question: would you want to erase memories?

I say no. All of my memories = me. The ones of me sobbing after a traumatic event are equally as important as those of me smiling with joy. Would I be the same person without certain memories? Would I have grown or learned anything? What would be missing from my personality or my heart? Would you be willing to give up something that could be essential to your change and growth?

So think about all the things you've done or seen or the people you've loved. They make you who you are.

Hello lovely readers!

So, I am so very sorry about the lack of postings lately. I have been busy, busy, busy... I will continue to be busy but I am going to start making more of an effort to post at least every other day.

So if I do this for you....wanna do me a favor? :)

Tell someone you love about my blog and send them the link. Have them follow me or bookmark it in their favorite sites. See if they'll comment and send my blog to someone else. I am quickly learning that NO ONE clicks on this thing! That makes me sad! Please prove me wrong.

Much love,

Lauren

Seeing the Future

Have you ever had a weird feeling something was going to happen...and then it did?

I have these every once in a while. I guess you could call them premonitions. I wish they were about something cool or exciting, but usually they are very ordinary. For example, I had two this week.

One was about my boyfriend chosing Olive Garden for our dinner date and one was about the girl I was babysitting last night having a stomachache. Silly, right?

What do these premonitions mean? They can have serious consequences in movies like "The Final Destination". (Thank goodness mine are trivial and not about death!) Do you think we are sometimes supposed to see part of our future to prepare for it?

What about all of you, do you ever have these premonitions? What do you call them? Tell me all about it. :)