Sunday, November 24, 2013

Music Chat.

Sorry I've been absent as of late, I really don't get on the computer very much anymore since I have an iPhone. But anyway, I thought of this really fantastic post while I was at a concert last night (okay, can I have a fangirl moment real quick? I posted a collage of pictures on Insta this morning from the concert and 2 of the 3 bands liked my picture and the lead singer from Motion City Soundtrack liked and commented on the picture. WHAAAAAATUH?! I had a tiny freakout when I saw it. Seriously. It was a really good show. Okay, fangirl moment done.).

So, I went to the Motion City Soundtrack, Relient K, and Driver Friendly concert in SLC yesterday with my seester, Meg. And we stood in line for an hour in the freezy weather and we were really excited to get in there and see the bands! Anyway, I noticed this kid and his friend walk past when we were waiting because I was intrigued by one of their jackets. I know, I'm kind of a weird one. Anyway, I just watched them walk past and didn't think anything of it. At 6 they opened the doors and we went inside. We hurried and bought a shirt before everything was sold out and went into the venue.

Remember jacket kid and friend? Yeah, they were standing right next to us the entire concert, basically. But jacket kid, who is actually really cute and I changed to chambray shirt kid later, was a really serious type. Like, borderline stoic. He didn't really have a lot of emotion to his face even when he was talking to his buddy. I was... we'll go with observing, him throughout the night, partially because he was just so darn attractive, and partially because I was so intrigued. Anyway, not a whole lot of emotion. And through the first bands set, he just respectfully listened and chilled. And then Relient K came on and he lit up. His face was shining with excitement and he was singing along to all the songs and he was getting really into it. And I thought back to all the concerts I've been to over the years and what I've observed there and what I've noticed just in everyday life. You can turn on a song and listen to an album and enjoy it with the company of other people. And it's great. But going to see a band live and feeding off their energy and the energy of the other people in the venue and really letting yourself go in that moment, is an experience like no other. It's incredible, even if you don't know that bands songs, or you don't know all the words, it's still so nice to stand there and feel the emotion in the lyrics and feel what they're feeling WITH them. Also, my favorite part of concerts, being able to sit there and enjoy the music while the sound from the speakers vibrates your hair! It's seriously one of my favorite feelings. I love it.

It amazes me how connected people are with music. It makes specific connections in the brain and it rewires. It wires itself to what you're getting visually and tactilely and what you're smelling so that when you smell that smell again, or see that thing again or touch what you touched, you are immediately taken back to that song. Or when you hear that song, you're immediately taken back to that feeling or sense. It's incredible!  And music can connect you with people you otherwise wouldn't have given a second glance. Because our music is so important to us. It speaks what your soul can't seem to put into words or feelings. And that's powerful.

Music is powerful. And it can change so much. It can bring people to life.

Have a great Sunday, guys! And a lovely week!

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Monday, November 18, 2013

Some little thoughts

-I have a tiny bit of PTSD from being pulled over last week. It was a little rough on the drive down to St. George.

-I have the best bestie for me. I really do. I found my OTP of besties. Clayton can make me laugh like no one else can, I think. And this weekend was fantastic. It's interesting, this whole friendship thing. When you meet people, you never know if they're going to be a "throw away" character in your story or if they could turn into a main character and be really important to the story line. I definitely didn't see this one coming when I met Clayton... that day I threatened to kill him. That's how all good relationships start out, right?

-Miss Jessica is my work OTP. I don't know how I survived a month without her there! I just work the best with her. I really do. And I appreciate her. Even when I call her my slave... :)

-You really can do anything you set your mind to. I've set my mind to not hate (not LIKE, just, not hate) someone and it's mostly working! Haha! It's really hard sometimes though.

-My Seester is coming to town on Wednesday! I'm so excited!

-I figured something out. Uhh, bubblegum and eggnog taste kind of like bananas. Which is probably why I hate those things. You probably disagree.

-I have a barely used graphing calculator. Like, a nice one. A TI-84 Plus. I used it for the one semester of Calculus I took in high school. I did have to scrub a sticker off... so it has some scrub marks. I have pictures if you're really interested... If anyone wants it, I'll give it to you for like $75. Which, is a shtealing deal, because I bought it for $125. I'll even put batteries in it for you. :)

-I had the best of times seeing my bestie this weekend. It was really really great.

-I need a book to read. I have a bookshelf full of books that I COULD read, but don't really want to at the moment. Except, maybe I will read some of them... either way, I'm open to suggestions right now. Hit me. (No Shakespeare, blechhhh.)

-I'm like a walking popsicle at work in the mornings. Then, in the afternoons, it's like I'm running a marathon through a sauna or something. It's ridiculous.

-I really need to stop being so dang lazy. "I hate myself everyday because of it!"

-I THINK I HAVE ALL OF MY CHRISTMAS PRESENTS FIGURED OUT. Mostly. Kind of. Except one, that's the hardest one every year!

I think that's all I have for you.

Have a good week, lovelies!

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

"I'm like a little boy trapped in a woman's body."

That's how I ultimately described myself to my new visiting teacher this morning. So... that happened. Also, we saw at LEAST six people get pulled over during the course of our breakfast by the same two motorcycle cops. Which made me paranoid because I got pulled over by a motorcycle cop yesterday. On my way home from going home early because I was sick. Yesterday was probably one of my worse days. But hey! I didn't get a ticket, just a written citation. So, cheers to that! And then I drove down State from Lindon to Provo and I saw three more cops! It's like they all decided that this week they were ALL gonna meet their quota or whatever. It made me all the levels of paranoid.

Also, I'm really excited for this weekend. It's just what I need right now. To get away and not have to think about anything in Orem. It's been ROUGH this week already. And I still have two more days! So... there's that.

My brain has been a mess lately and I have been a crappy blogger, sorry about that. You'll probably live. Probably.

Anyway, I hope you guys are having a better week than this crazy.

Byeeeeeee!

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Sunday, November 10, 2013

Randoms, probably.

I've been MEANING to write a really nice, really inspirational, really honest post about makeup for abouuuuut a month now and every time I try to sit down and make it happen, it doesn't. So, sorry and stuff. Therefore, you get some random junk stuff to tide you over until I feel like writing a big girl post. (because I know you are all DYING to read my blog every second of every day, am I right?)

-I joined the iPhone generation. I got the 5C in blue. I actually love it. Like, a lot. One thing though, I can't figure out how to get my phone out of the case... So... I'll have to work on that. I'm sure that I just need to be a bit more aggressive about it and since I don't have a different case right this second, that's why I'm not all that invested in getting that baby out, but still. Also, I looked at the case I have on their website (to see if they had any tips and tricks on getting those bad boys off, HA) and it turns out that it has shock absorbent rubber on the inside and really hard stuff (technical terms...) on the outside. So, I think it might withstand it if I dropped my phone... which hasn't happened yet, but it's a very big possibility.

- I've now watched both The Fellowship of the Ring and Two Towers. I don't hate them. I do however, think that the Elven land.... Rivendale? Is absolutely gorgeous and I really like the paddles on their boats. And I also think that Frodo and Sam are incredibly boring in Two Towers. And also, if I had to choose a creature to be, I would either be an Elf because their hair is so pretty or an Ent (probably an Ent wife...) because dude, I'm a walking, talking tree. So... it's pretty cool. That's most of what I've taken from the movies. Also, I'm still confused about a few things, nothing that REALLY matters to like the story line, but nonetheless. But, it's whatever. I'll get to... whatever the third one is... Return of the King? sometime or another. Then everyone at work can get off my back about it. Then I just have to watch all the Star Wars and they'll REALLY leave me alone. (Like THAT'S going to happen any time soon)

-I'm going to St. George next weekend to visit Clayton and Rob and I am SO SUPER EXCITED. Like, really. I'm the kind of person that makes a packing list for everything. And I've already written it out and revised it. Packing lists are serious business, people. And the second I confirmed the dates, I started making a playlist of the music I want to listen to on the drive. Like, I'm being SO dorky about this whole thing and I don't even care! I'm beyond excited! A little less so because my mom decided that she doesn't want me driving down by myself and she's going to my aunt's for the weekend. But, WHATEVER. I'm more just so stoked to go visit my bestie! And it's Albus and I's first road trip together! Yay!

-My rings. They are now too big for me on the fingers I was wearing them on. I'm most sad about my grandfather's class ring. It's too big for any of my fingers now and I am seriously crushed. I got a new ring to put in the spot that my other ring didn't fit on anymore and it's a Greek Evil Eye. I just think they're really cool, more than I actually believe in that stuff. It's interesting to see what people believe in that's different than what you believe in. And I think it's kind of cool to learn about it because then you can connect with them better.

-I'm steeling myself for the weeks ahead. Basically for the foreseeable future. I already know it's going to be very hard for me and I hope and pray that I can handle myself and not be a total... *ahem*. Hahahaaaaa, woops?

-I hardcore worked on my sisters commissioned mosaic ALL DAY yesterday and I'm really excited about the progress. Like, REALLY EXCITED. I'll be sure to Instagram the finished product, because blogger has been bugging out with pictures lately.

-Does anyone else have to have a clean room before they can go anywhere? Like, if you're going on a trip somewhere, do you make sure your room is clean before you leave? Because I do. So, that's what I'll be trying to tell myself to do everyday this week. And also trying to hold off on packing until AT LEAST Wednesday. Ha! Seriously, I love this stuff. I try so hard not to be an over packer too, by the way.

Well, I think that's all I've got. See you later, have a FANTASTIC week.

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Sunday, October 27, 2013

Let's Chat for a Minute

I KNOW. I DIDN'T POST YESTERDAY. I was busy living my life, my apologies. But, I'm giving you a serious-town big girl blog post to make up for it!

I've been pondering this topic a lot lately, but, to fully understand where I'm coming from, I think we need to rewind back to when I met Rob (Rob is Clayton's fiancĂ©e, Clayton is my bestie). We were discussing how someone could go from being totally cool with someone close to them being Gay to not being cool with it at all. I remember making the comment, "I don't understand how people can be so malleable,". Clayton and Rob both liked that comment and blah blah blah, that part is all that pertains to this chat of ours here. And by chat, I mean, I'm typing at you.

They made that comment significant to me, and I have thought about it off and on since that night. I looked up the definition of malleable and found this:

Malleable:
adjective
1. capable of being extended or shaped by hammering or by pressure from rollers.
2. adaptable or tractable: the malleable mind of a child.

Synonyms: impressionable, moldable, flexible, pliable.

Okay, so we understand WHAT malleable means now, let's go back to that first comment, "I don't understand how people can be so malleable,". As I've thought about this, I've realized, I was wrong! DUH, people HAVE to be malleable. The people that AREN'T malleable are those ones that drive the people around them absolutely bonkers because they won't listen to what other people have to say, won't consider any opinion besides their own, or ALWAYS have to be correct. In other words, the worst kind of closed-mindedness. The rude kind.

We are all humans, right? So in turn, we are all malleable. We are changed by what we see, hear, feel, touch. We grow and learn and develop. We are all malleable! And, in realizing this, I've also realized that this can be for the good and also for the bad. We can be influenced by the good and great and wonderful and in turn become more good and great and wonderful; OR we can be influenced by the awful and evil and mean and become more awful and evil and mean. That's why it is so important that we pay attention to what we are letting influence us in the books we read, the people we surround ourselves with, the music we listen to, the movies we watch... basically, all the general INPUT that we receive, so we can in turn, have a desirable OUTPUT. Ya feel me?

I just want to challenge each of you to evaluate your input. Evaluate those things that are molding you even when you are unaware of it. Are those things that you feel are good and great and wonderful? Are those things that you want to carry with you for the rest of your life?

I hope everyone has a great week!

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Friday, October 25, 2013

5 things that make me probably the creepiest person.

Creepy? Or well-informed. I just creeped on someone and then realized that I am probably ultra creepy. I mean, I was creeping, after all. But, this isn't the first time I have felt like that, so I thought I would share some things that make me probably more creepy than average.

1. I remember details... Like, hardcore. To the point that people don't remember saying anything about something and I will mention it and they are all, "HOW DO YOU KNOW THAT?!" "Uhh, you told me..."

2. I Facebook stalk like nobody's business... All I need is someone's first name and the first three letters of their last name and I can and WILL find someone on Facebook and stalk the crap out of them. Give me half an hour and I will know A LOT about that person. And I obviously have no shame about my Facebook stalking tendencies/abilities.

3. I spend a lot of time observing people...  I find it fascinating to watch how people move and live and speak. So, I spend a lot of time SEEING people, and you catch on to a lot that way. You also overhear a lot of things that you wish you hadn't... and could have died happy not knowing. It's a blessing and a curse.

4. I know a lot of weird things... and sometimes the things that I know about creep those around me out. I know so much because if I've never heard of something, I go research it. For example, menstruation cups. DON'T GO LOOK THOSE UP. I made that mistake, and forever wish I were the kind of person that could have seen that phrase and just been like, oh, maybe it was a typo? And went on my merry way. But I'm not.

5. I really love Edgar Allan Poe... And that makes me creepy to people, I guess. I mean... I can kind of see it. But I think he's a genius.

Have a lovely weekend, everyone!

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Thursday, October 24, 2013

5 TV shows that I can't get enough of

It's a reaaaaal shorty today. I have next to no motivation to do anything but watch TV. Which is precisely what I'm going to talk about. 5 TV shows that I could watch all day.

1. Grey's Anatomy

2. New Girl

3. Pretty Little Liars

4. Duck Dynasty

5. Vampire Diaries

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

5 of my favorite...

BOOKS. I love reading, because it's a way to escape this world and be part of any world you choose, if only for 15 minutes. No matter what book you're reading, it's magical, in that sense. Here are 5 of my favorite books/authors.

1. Sarah Dessen... is my ALL TIME favorite author and there are only two books of hers that I don't love reading and re-reading until I am falling apart. I can only ever remember that I don't like Dreamland and I can never remember the other one until I start reading it. But I especially love The Truth about Forever and Just Listen and Along for the Ride. And let's be real, pretty much all of her books. They just... they get me.

2. Harry Potter... I love all of them. It's been a while since I read them, simply because I know it will make me a little bit sad. This is one of the few instances where I think the movies did the books justice to a certain point. Like, I love the movies just as much as I love the books. And really, who doesn't love Harry Potter? They do magic and save lives and there are super cool creatures left and right and it's just awesome, okay?

3. Divergent... by Veronica Roth. And while we're at it, Insurgent (the 2nd book in the series) and Allegiant (the 3rd book) just came out too. I just started Allegiant but so far, it's living up. Like, it literally JUST came out. This week. It's a dystopian novel about a society that is split up into "factions" and there's a faction centered on selflessness, happiness, learning, fearlessness, and... telling the truth. It's a perfect blend of the teen romance stuff to keep the girls reading and the action-y, fighting bits to keep boys reading.

4. The Mortal Instruments... by Cassandra Clare. I find those books absolutely marvelous as well. I just love the concept and I love the demons and angels and all that jazz. I still haven't seen the movie, because I don't want to see the actors as the characters when I re-read them. And I feel like these could go under this as well, The Time-Clock Princess series, it's a spin off of The Mortal Instruments. I actually like the Princess series more, because I prefer the Victorian era and the enemy. But, they're both wonderful.

5. The Perks of Being a Wallflower... by Stephen Chbosky. Goodness Glaciers, I just love that book. And I think the movie COMPLETELY lives up to the book. Seriously, go read it and cry and be happy and laugh. It's the saddest, most beautiful, and yet happiest book ever. I absolutely love it.

I totally cheated and said WAYYY more than 5 books or authors. Ha! But these are pretty much all of my favorite books. If you read one because of this, let me know how you like it! :)

Cheers,
Reille K.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

5 things... I love about being LDS.

Or, for those of you who don't know what "LDS" is, MORMON (you never know who might see this, so best to cover ALL the bases).

I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and I absolutely love it. I am far from perfect, but I know that that's okay! That's what I'm here to do, strive to become better. Here are 5 specific things that I love about the Gospel.

1. I love... going to the Temple. It's my absolute favorite, I think. It's so peaceful there and I just... I feel so close to heaven. PLUS, I get to be part of giving people the gift of sacred ordinances that they missed out on during their mortal life. Even if they don't accept it on the other side, I know that I'm being of service to them. Also, sometimes there are cute boys there... performing the ordinances and then you can look at their nametag and come home to Facebook stalk them! Did I actually do this today? Yes, yes I did. He's leaving for his mission in a week from tomorrow, so nothing is going to happen, but HEY, it was an educational experience. :)

2. I love... that we get to take the Sacrament every Sunday and renew covenants that we've made. It wasn't until I really USED the Atonement in a big way, that I understood how amazing this opportunity is. It's become my favorite part of church, and, not to sound... conceited? I'm really proud of myself for getting to this point. The way I got here wasn't ideal, but, it's part of me now, and I wouldn't be where I am without it.

3. I love... that Families are Forever. Because I love my family to pieces, and we're all far away from each other. So it's nice to know that even with all that, we still have eternity to be together and we can probably play all the card games and make all the crafts we've ever wanted to when we're all in heaven.

4. I love... the knowledge that I have of the after-life. This year, I think I've finally figured it out. I finally GOT IT, the concept of being so extremely happy and excited for people that die. It sounds really cold, but it's actually the complete opposite of that. They don't have to experience all the horrible things that are in this world anymore, and they get to be reunited with loved ones. It's AWFUL to be left behind, but, those left behind just aren't ready yet. My dad said something when his Mom died earlier this year that really stuck with me. I asked him if he was sad that his mom died, and he replied, "No, it's not my life to be sad over. I have no ownership over it." And it's true. Plus, in her situation, I was overjoyed with her and was wishing that I could witness the reunion between her and my grandpa. He died in 1957... or maybe '58? So she's been alone for a LOOONG time.

5. I love... that in this Gospel, no matter who you are or where you're from, we're all friends. We understand that we all have a common goal, and even if you have nothing else in common with someone, you have THIS. And THIS is a pretty big thing. Lately, I've been feeling this the most when I go to the temple. Anyone that passes as I'm walking in and out always greets me, even though we are virtually strangers. All the temple workers themselves act as if they were expecting you to come calling. I just love all the friendliness.

Monday, October 21, 2013

5 goals for this week.

I don't know that I've ever really been very good at setting goals and actually following through with them. I really feel like I'm not good at it. But, one thing I DO know from my limited goal setting/goal reaching experience, is that if you set a goal and don't plan out your attack, nothing gets done. But, if you have a plan of attack, it's much easier to keep yourself to your goals, as it gives you some sense of accountability, even if it's just with yourself. Personally, blogging about it helps too. :)

To plan for my goals, I just planned out my week on paper. If things change a little bit, then it's fine, but at least I have something to go off of. I would show you the picture I took of it, but blogger hasn't been letting me upload pictures for the last month or so. It's just freaks out and has to reopen the tab. It's dumb. But anyway...

I made 5 goals for myself this week, to keep in tradition with my whole "5 things" thing.

Here they are:

1. Blog everyday... because I need to. For myself, more than anyone else. My blog helps keep me focused and less insane. It's my outlet, and for some reason I haven't been utilizing it as much as I probably should.

2. Clean my room/my purse... I know, it's weird to combine those two things. But to be honest, when I'm not home, I live out of my purse. All girls do. And my purse is MESSY. And if my surroundings are disorganized, I'm disorganized. So, gotta fix that.

3. Laundry- Washed, Folded, and Put Away... Guys. I'm ridiculous. I'm so good at getting my laundry washed, but I fail epically at folding it and putting it away. Like, I still have my laundry from LAST week to fold and put away.

4. Write Danielle... because I love that girl and I miss her and she's been out for a month and I still haven't done it. Actually, I wrote her yesterday and sent the letter off today. So, ONE GOAL DOWN! Already, I'm impressed with myself a little bit.

5. Start Mosaic... I made a mosaic for my sister for her birthday, and she loved it. A lot. Enough that she has commissioned me to do another one for her and she wants to pay me for it. WHOA. And I really want to be done with it before he comes in November. Like, I would really like to be done with it by the end of October. And I have all the stuff for it, I just need to DO it.

There we have it. 5 goals for the week.

Do you guys plan out your week or your days? Do you find it helpful to plan out how you're going to achieve your goals? Do you guys like the new look? Even my favicon is new! (If you don't know what a favicon is, I don't blame you, it's the little icon next to the URL and usually in the tab as well.)

Anyway, I look forward to this week! I hope you all have a good one. :)

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Friday, October 18, 2013

It's a new thing I'm going to try.

I think, I've just been lame lately. Like, I do things with my time and I am happy and stuff, but, when those closest to me that I don't see often/haven't seen in a while ask me? I got nothin'. Which is lame. Like, I feel like I haven't been able to contribute much to conversations lately, and I dislike that A LOT.

BECAUSE I'M AN INTERESTING PERSON. OKAY?

So, I think I'm going to try something out. With blogging. I got the idea from Megan's new blog (I think). 5 things. I'm going to post 5 THINGS every day. Whether they be thoughts, experiences, things I can see, things I wish I had seen, things I did, etc. The list goes on and on and on. Because it helps me remember. Writing things out. And I have a journal, but, I don't have enough time/motivation to put as much work into it as I would like. And as much as I love hand-written things, typing is faster and easier on my fingers. :)

SO, starting Monday. I'm doing a 5 things... thing.

Look forward to it, okay? :)

Have a good weekend everyone! Have some fun for me too, since I work this weekend. And I teach. And I have the treat for ward prayer. And I still haven't prepared my lesson... :)

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

here's to a day off...

I mean, right? It's the best day of the week, my days off. And waking up at 5:30 every other day of the week can get a little... well, for lack of a better word, lame and exhausting. I know that I CAN get up early, but that doesn't mean I WANT to get up early all the time, right? No matter what though, I will probably never go back to the whole sleeping in until 1 in the afternoon thing. I just don't see that in my cards anymore, since right now I can't sleep past 8:30 or 9 and that's pushing it. Which, I am COMPLETELY fine with, I get WAYYY more done and it's great.

Do you know what I was planning on doing today? Waking up at 7, going for a walk around the block just to get my blood flowing and my muscles warm, and then doing yoga. Well, I woke up at 7. It's still dark outside... not exactly the safest environment for just me and Fritz to go for a short walk. The saddest part about waking up early and going to work is that even though I'm awake, I still have no idea when the sun rises, and I never get to watch the earth wake up. For most of my life, I didn't even realize that I would enjoy that. But, once upon a time, Clayton and I decided to be super bad-a and go stalk our favorite teacher a little bit. It was really a stake-out to check out if he brought a bag to school so Clayton could be him for Halloween, but still, kind of weird. We got up SUPER early (not as early as I get up now, but when you're used to waking up at like, 7, it was EARLY), and I got us some hot chocolate and donuts and we met at the school. We sat in front of his classroom and waited. How adorable are we? Or creepy, you can take it either way. The point is, on our way to the school, we both had the same thought, of how gorgeous the dawn was. It was still dark outside, but the feeling of the morning darkness was different. A different energy surrounded me. And I really liked it.

I'm a little bummed that it's still dark outside right now. Just because I hate the tredmill. Which is my option right now. And also the cold. But I was just going to deal with that one. I think I might just do it anyway. Haven't decided yet, but either way, IT WILL BE DONE.

Cheers to the morning time,
                               Reille K.

Sunday, October 13, 2013

Since I didn't get up in Sacrament...

And bear my testimony there, it seems like this is appropriate. First, because I prefer to express myself through the written word 9 times out of 10. Second, because if it's a choice, I choose NOT to speak in front of people. It's just not my favorite thing in the world. Anyway, here it is.

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about testimony. And specifically the bearing of testimony. It's something that I have never loved doing, even though I know that I have a strong one. And for a really long time, I put myself below others, in terms of loving Heavenly Father, because I wasn't one of those people that could easily share my feelings and have never gotten up to bear my testimony in Sacrament. I always felt like my testimony was something that was sacred and it's like my little baby. Which, it is, but, it's one of the few sacred things in this Gospel that we are MEANT to share. We gain testimony so that we can share it and help others strengthen their own. And I knew all of that, but, I still struggled with finding the courage to say those words in front of people.

It's been pretty recent, like the past few weeks, maybe, that I realized something. Sacrament, or seminary, or institute, or while teaching a lesson-- all these "formal" settings we're used to bearing testimony in, are NOT our only opportunities to bear. I mean, obviously there are also those missionary moments and all that jazz, but I'm talking about something even beyond those. I realized that literally every second of existence, we are bearing testimony. We bear testimony by the way we speak, the way we act, how we treat other humans, the way we work, the way we spend our time, what we do when we're alone, what we do when with friends and family. That is ALL bearing testimony. It's just a matter of if anyone is watching, which, there is always someone watching you, as a member of this church. Either because you're different and you have the Light of Christ and people can see that in your demeanor, or because they are also a member of this church and they are seeing how you are living your life and wondering how strong you are in the Gospel. For reals, I see it and do it every single day. And even if no one HERE is watching us, Heavenly Father and His angels are. Whether we know it or know, we are always examples to those around us, and it's our job to be good ones.

We bear testimony by living the Gospel. We bear testimony by choosing light over darkness. We bear testimony by embracing our own divine nature; by being who we are as divine children of our Heavenly Father.

We have a Heavenly Father who loves us and would do ANYTHING for us, all we have to do is simply ask. And though at times it can seem excruciating to let Him in, and to ask for help (i.e. admit that we are weak, human beings), it will ultimately be the best thing we could ever do. And no matter what we have done, there is always hope for us. If we crack our foundation, we can utilize the Atonement and start over, pour a new foundation.

Guys, this Gospel is true. And I absolutely love it. I can't even come close to imagining how I would function without it. I would surely be even more of a mess than I already am. ;) I just, I love it.

I hope everyone had as wonderful a Sunday as I did, and if not, better luck next week! :) Have a fantastic week, guys. I can't wait, because my partner in crime is back AND I only have to work until noon everyday! It's going to be good, no matter what.

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Thursday, October 3, 2013

This One Time I Geeked Out About a Washing Machine...

So, my parents had to get a new washer this weekend because ours was just broke. We had a repairman come and he said there was nothing wrong with it, but obviously there was because we wouldn't have called him? Duh. But my Momma wanted stacking ones, so we just got both. And they're the high-efficiency, fancy pants kind. Cool, no?

Guys, I literally have been sitting in front of our new washer for the past 30 minutes just in awe. My Dad and I were sitting there talking about how great the washing machine is. And how it really works. And how cool it is that it spins your clothes around a few times to figure out how much water it needs and it distributes the clothes evenly and all that jazz. It was the kind of conversation I generally have with my Dad, actually. But we were talking about how they just don't MAKE things the same way they used to, and how people literally sit there and think of newer, better ways to wash your clothes. And how much science goes into WASHING CLOTHES these days. Like, it's not brain surgery, people. But, to some people, this is their life!

Anyway, I've always been someone who looks at things with complete wonderment. Like, I think the DUMBEST things are so insanely cool sometimes. I mean, I just watched my clothes be washed... No, but seriously. I find things interesting, so I learn about how they work and then I generally exclaim, "It's like MAGIC!" Even though what I just learned was obviously very scientific, right? Like, there is no slight of hand or anything. It was literally just laid out right in front of me, and I still think it's magic? I realized something, whilst watching my clothes become clean again. Magic is just the science put into action. Guys, let me just say this again. Magic is Science put into ACTION. Obviously this doesn't apply to everything. Because there are magical feelings, and people, and places. But, you can look at ANYTHING with a sense of wonderment and think it is absolutely magical.

I found my washing machine to be magical, what else can I find to be that way? How would your world change if you looked around with different eyes? Eyes that saw the "magic" instead of the "science"? How would your world change if you looked at it with a sense of wonderment (it's my favorite word this post, sorry guys)? Appreciating the tiniest of things? The most every day things like the sky or the clouds or the little specks of dirt that are left on your windshield after it rains?

I, personally, think that it would change A LOT. Like, our attitudes. Our perspective on social issues. The way we speak to people. ...Just to name a few things. Interesting, isn't it? How all this stemmed from a WASHING MACHINE.

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Happy (late, as usual) Birthday, Bloggy.

Well, I WAS going to write about how I am a freaking NINJA when I shop at Kohl's, but my pictures won't load. And the post wouldn't be as fun without them, right? What I AM going to talk about is, OH MY GOSH, I MISSED MY OWN BLOGAVERSARY. WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME?! I started this blog on the 8 of September in 2010 because I was avoiding doing my homework... Bless my little heart.

If you'd like to read my first post, you can do that here. Seriously, who did I think I was? I remember writing that and thinking, "I am SO clever! But, no one is ever going to read this or be interested in what I have to say." I mean, I even say basically that in the post! I didn't know what this blog would end up being then, but BOY, I'm glad I did avoid my English homework that day for an hour or two to start my little bloggy here.

I went through periods where I didn't even remember that I had a blog to periods when I literally blogged every day and I couldn't get enough of it. I've over-shared, I've under-shared. I've shared juuuust enough. This blog is my little baby. My slice of solitude and comfort on the internet. The place where I can be heard when I need to be, and the place where I can be silent when I need a break from everything else. It's my single thing where there are NO expectations and I can give as much or as little as I want to in this relationship. This blog has been through EVERYTHING with me for the past three years. I mean, it's been with me since my junior year of high school for heaven's sake! Goodness glaciers! I'm talking about my blog as if it's a HUMAN. Enh, oh well.

I can't believe I missed my own blogaversary, and to be honest, I didn't even know when it was until just now. I thought for SURE it was towards the end of October. Woops. Then again, I have NO idea when my anniversary with Clayton is... and he's my best friend. Ha!

I love that I have somewhere to come and express myself in any way that I see fit. I was talking to a friend... at church the other day about running and he said, "If you have to ask someone WHY they run, you'll never understand the answer." To which I responded, "If you'll never understand, then why ask?" And I wanted to kick myself after he answered with this, "Because it gives them the opportunity to express themselves." DUH, REILLE. Me, someone who is SO into expression, didn't see that for myself. And it opened my eyes a lot to how we should interact with those around us. It's not about US, it's about THEM.

Anyway...

I guess I just wanted to celebrate a little bit, because I think this is one of the few things that I have ever been so passionate about for this long of a period of time, overall. And that's pretty special, don't you think?

What are you guys passionate about? What do you feel has changed the way you see/react/interact with the world around you? How do you express yourself?

I hope we can all get through the next few days. I for one have to work this weekend (BOOOO.) But hey! We get to enjoy Conference this weekend, so there's something to look forward to. :) I'm REALLY excited for it this time.

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Oh, hey. Thanks for sticking around, you guys. And reading my blog and stuff. It really does mean a lot to me. A SPECIAL shout out to Ruth. This girl has been here since the very first post, as you can see if you go to it. First ever commenter, and really, one of the few who actually does. I just love you, Ruth. You're fantastic. :)

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

What a Lovely Morning

I went to the Temple and it was perfect. And this is one of those experiences where every time I try to write about it, I simply can't bring myself to do it. I loved it and it was special. And I feel like if I share it with people that will actually see it right now, then it will lose a bit of its luster.

So, that's all you need to know right now. Do you guys have moments like that? Where you just want to lock them up inside of you and cuddle with them because they are so fantastic?

Sunday, September 29, 2013

A chat about the Single's Ward. Kind of.

I have been struggling to write a post this week. I've started at least two and discarded them because I couldn't get any of them right. But, I think I've got it this time. I'm sure I've talked about it before, but this is my blog and I do what I want. :)

I just want to write about how much I just love the Single's Ward. It has recently been said to me, "You've been there for 8 months and you aren't married yet?!" And I replied with, "What? You don't go to the Single's Ward to get married, you go there so you are with people that are in the same place as you are spiritually." I mean, am I right?

I didn't go to the Single's Ward expecting much. I went because I finally recognized that my spiritual fire was running on the small embers of a dying flame. I wasn't progressing in Nursery. I was still faithful and went to church every week, was worthy to partake of the Sacrament every Sunday, but, I wasn't anywhere NEAR where I needed to be to get anywhere in life. I needed to change something, and I already knew I wasn't going to get what I needed from my home ward; no matter how wonderful all the women in that ward were. I could feel that I wasn't meant to be there anymore, and I think the Bishop could feel that too. Since they released me the same Sunday that I had dubbed as my last in that ward. I didn't know what I was getting myself into, and I had always been apprehensive of the Single's Ward. It freaked me out for some reason that I don't even remember. But it was one of those situations where I was in the dark and I knew that if I took one step forward with faith, God would light my path. It seems almost silly that that principle applied in my choice to change wards. Because, either way, the Gospel is there. But, it's different. The atmosphere is different, and the people are different.

It wasn't until my second Sunday in the Single's ward that I knew I had made the right choice. A member of the Bishopric said that I was here right now, because I had a purpose in this ward and I don't think he will EVER know just how much that seemingly simple phrase means to me even still.

There is not a Sunday that goes by without me feeling an outpouring of the Spirit. And at this time in my life, I need that more than I could ever say. It's absolutely amazing. I was thinking today about where I was when I first came to the Single's ward. And I can hardly believe that I was there. I was in such a... stagnant place. And after the things I had gone through to get into a better place, I was disappointed that I had become complacent. Again. But the Single's ward has changed that. I am being challenged because I have a calling that isn't easy. And I am being challenged because it's expected to be a smidge social and I have to talk to people that I normally wouldn't. And there are so many perspectives and insights being shared all the time that I am amazed every time I turn around. I have found amazing friends in this ward that I would have been gutted had I not met.

Guys, more than anything, I wanted to tell you that this Gospel is true. And every day it's becoming more and more evident to me. I cannot imagine what my life would be like without it. Even just the thought makes me shudder. I am so grateful for the lessons I have learned and for the trials and challenges that I have gone through because they are so integral to who I am as a person today. And most of all, I love that this Gospel gives me something to believe in. Something to work towards. A path to follow. Because otherwise, I would be lost. And lost is not a very pleasant place to be.

I hope you all had an uplifting Sunday and that you all have a fantastic week.

Cheers,
     Reille K. :)

Sunday, September 22, 2013

"She will do great things."

First of all, name that movie, anyone? :) Those were my parting words to Danielle.


How fitting that my 200th post is about her! I think I'm starting a trend, of my hundred milestone posts being about some of my favorite humans in the world.

Package Deal, Trek Sister, Temple Buddy, Danielle, and now Sister Chapman. How lucky am I to have such an amazing friend in my life as this girl? She has been so influential to me over the years, in SO many ways. She let me hang out with her group in 9th grade PE when I had no one else. They gave me rides to school when I had a falling out with my other ride. She always reminded me that the temple is where we need to go when we're feeling down or crazy things are going on in our life. She has blessed my life in so many ways that she probably never even realized. This girl has been my Saving Angel for the past five years, and I don't know what I'm going to do without her here for 18 whole months.

I am SO proud of her and I know that she is going to be AMAZING as a missionary. Her farewell talk? It was a FOUR tissue talk! I was falling apart, you guys! She has always been such a good influence to me and I am so thankful for that. I love this girl to pieces and I'm going to miss her a lot. But, I know she's going for all the right reasons, and I know that this is EXACTLY where she needs to be.

She said in her talk that if you didn't remember anything else she said, then remember this, "The Atonement is real. It can bring anyone back, no matter how far you've traveled." And it's true! I've experienced that in my own life. And it's an amazing feeling.

I've always had Danielle in my life, we grew up together. And it's only been pretty recently that I've realized how much she has done for me. I can't say enough good and wonderful things about this girl!

The last thing I want to share with you guys today, are the words to the opening hymn we sang. I fell apart when we were singing this and couldn't even finish.

Each Life That Touches Ours for Good  #293

"Each life that touches our for good, Reflects this own great mercy, Lord; thou sendest blessings from above, Thru words and deeds of those who love.

What greater gift dost thou bestow, What greater goodness can we know. Than Christ-like friends, whose gentle ways Strengthen our faith, enrich our days.

When such a friend from us departs, We hold forever in our hearts. A sweet and hallowed memory, Bringing us nearer, Lord, to thee.

For worthy friends whose lives proclaim Devotion to the Savior's name, Who bless our days with peace and love, We praise thy goodness, Lord, above."

Today was a beautiful day. And I just love that girl. Seriously, guys, she is AMAZING. Those people in D.C. are some lucky, lucky humans.

I hope you all had as great of a Sunday as I did, and I hope everyone has a good week!

Cheers,
    Reille K.

Friday, September 20, 2013

Whatcha doin'?

I saw this on Carlee's blog and I thought, "Hey, what a nice, easy post to do for my first post back!" Also, I do apologise for my lack of blogging recently. I took a bit of a hiatus because there was just TOO MUCH going on in my life and I needed a bit of "me time" in all of the little tentacles of my life. So, here it is. :)

Making // I SHOULD be making two different mosaics and receiving blankets. But alas, I have not even started on them. You know me, always a procrastinator no matter how hard I try not to be.
Cooking // I've been too lazy to cook lately... I was on a stay-cation last week and we literally ate at home ONE time. ONE.
Drinking // At this second, I have water in my cup. But, I've really been diggin' juice lately. Since I still don't really drink Mountain Dew/Soda.
Reading // The Mortal Instruments. Again. I'm at the end of book three. And no, I haven't seen the movie. I don't want to see the actors when I re-read. Is that weird? Probably. Okay, yes, it's weird.
Wanting // Something to happen. Like, I've really been wanting to go on dates lately. Which, is not something that I usually want. I generally think, "Ooh, I want a boyfriend, but I don't want to have to go on dates to get one, because those are awkward." But, that has not been the case lately.
Looking // "For love in a hopeless place!" Just kidding. I'm actually looking for Phlebotomy jobs. (I KNOW, right?!) I've finally come to terms with it, I think. Well, enough that I am confident enough to start looking for a new job, eh?
Playing // Nothing. I got back into Candy Crush for three days and then promptly deleted it again. Games are stupid.
Wasting // All my time. All the time. Just kidding, I only waste a little time. I've gotten my room almost all the way done from my re-decorating. Yay!
Sewing // Not a single stitch. I AM however, waiting for my grandma to finish sewing the binding on my new quilt. Eeee!
Wishing // That I could see my bestie. Sir, I miss you. Email me back?
Enjoying // The fall weather and pumpkin smelling things. Which, is new for me. I never really liked pumpkin before.
Waiting // "on the world to change." Wow, I need to stop referencing songs. I'm waiting for the new J.K. Rowling movies. And the new season of Grey's (I can't WAIT) aaaand... that's all.
Liking // All the new clothes I've bought recently. Seriously, guys, I can't control myself.
Wondering // What the heck is wrong with my car! Nothing too serious, but my fan isn't blowing. Stupid thing. At least it's the time of year that I can live with it for a bit. I'm also just a little too lazy to take it to the shop... :)
Loving // My family. A lot. Last week was the first time, I think, EVER that we have ALL been together without anyone missing. And it was fantastic. I just love them a lot. And they're the best.
Hoping // I don't have to pay a million dollars to get my car fixed.
Marvelling // At how blessed I am. It's a constant marvel of mine, because I don't hold up my end of the stick NEARLY as much as I need to. Guys, God is great.
Needing // New undershirts. Ha! Seriously though.
Smelling // My Pumpkin Cheesecake candle from Target. Seriously, so yummy.
Wearing // My leggings that I scored from Kohl's for $4 and a chiffon button up shirt that's white with grey polka dots. Because it's cute enough that I could leave the house in it, but comfy enough that I've been sitting here on the computer since I got home from work.
Following // people on Instagram again! I don't know that you all knew, I deleted my insta and twitter. But, I came back to insta this last Wednesday. Not twitter though.
Noticing // That people are so dang nice. And that I can be social (sort of). And how different I am than other people.
Knowing // That I'm not dating anyone because the time is not right. Because I'm not the person I need to be yet. That I need to focus on being the right ME instead of finding the right person, so I can BE the right person for MY right person. (I had an epiphany the other day during the sacrament. :) )
Thinking // That I'm forgetting to do something... I've had that feeling all week.
Feeling // Like I have things to say again. And that feels good. :)
Bookmarking // Mmm... I'm not sure that I'm really bookmarking anything these days.
Opening // myself up a little bit more. Trying not to be so... well, closed. And intimidating. Oy.
Giggling // At Duck Dynasty. Seriously, it's so funny!
Feeling // Happy that he talked to me today and it wasn't weird. Happy that people appreciate how clean my Target is (I asked a guest if I could help her today and her reply was, "Your store is so clean and nice and spacious! I love it!" and I was a little taken aback and just said, "Oh, thank you!" and she said, "NO, thank YOU." It was honestly the BEST moment of my entire day). Sad that Jessica is in Europe because I miss her. And work is boring without her. Like a grown up. And that's weird. 


Anyway, that's all for today. It's good to be back. :)






 Wanna join in on this? Please do. Leave a comment & let me know so I can read yours :)

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Sunday, July 28, 2013

"God Loves You"

You know, I've always felt loved. If not by the people who's affections I have lusted and wistfully hoped to receive, then by my family and dearest friends. I've only ever felt lonely when I've made myself lonely. When I over-think all the thinks I had and made myself crazy. 

Lately, I don't know what it is, but I've been feeling really great about myself. Call it self-esteem or whatever you'd like. I mean... I inadvertently asked a REALLY cute boy on a date. And wasn't nervous about it. I mean, I thought I was just asking him to hang out, but... it ended up being a date. That's a BIG step for me. I wasn't uncomfortable at any point that night. I never got embarrassed about anything. It was pretty great. And I got to spend my evening with a cute boy. So, magical, obviously. 

But anyway. That is NOT what this post is about. This post is about God. And just how great He is. 

I found this quote on Pinterest and promptly made it my desktop background.

     "Some days you get what you WANT.
                      And some days you get what you NEED."

Lately, I've been getting a lot of things that I didn't know I needed. I mean, people have been saying things that I needed to hear not only as a comfort, but also because I needed a kick in the butt. 

Two different people who are half a world away from each other, have told me that God loves me. I've always known that, but sometimes you need an outside reminder. And both times, it was JUST what I needed. In that moment, in that day, whatever. It's amazing to see how God works through other people to make sure that you get what you need. Angels are around us, at all times, in all places. And I love it when they are so obviously present. Or, I guess, when I have my eyes open enough to notice. It's amazing. There are days when you get what you want (that boy saying yes to spending time with me) and there are days when you get what you need.(People reminding me that God loves me.) 

Anyway, I thought I'd do a more spiritual type of post today because I played hooky from church. Not really, I had a migraine that made it so I could barely walk. So... church wasn't much of an option. But anyway, happy Sunday!

Mmmkaylikeyoubyeeeee!

Cheers,
     Reille K. 

Thursday, July 25, 2013

Happy Thursday!

Well, hey there!

Once upon a time, I told you that I would remind you on Wednesday to start your social media fast if you were going to join me aaaaaand, I didn't. I was too busy occupying my time with all the other wonderful things that don't require a computer!

I've been reading two books lately, one about my favorite, Dr. Seuss. It's fantastic. I actually really want to name my son Theodor. So, there's that. And also one about creativity. It's called, "Steal like an Artist" and it's by Austin Kleon. It is AWESOME. Very good read. I highly recommend it, even if you aren't a super creative person! It was wonderful. I actually finished that one, because I took notes while reading so it took me a little longer. So, I've been reading.

Also, I started an art project I've had on the back burner for MONTHS. Like, I've had all the supplies and everything but just haven't done it. Lazy, right? I'm doing another mosaic and I'm SOOO excited for it. It's for Meg and I'm making her favorite flower! After my last attempt at using really different materials, I've decided that I just gotta stick with what I know for right now. So, paint chips it is! Plus, they just work the best. So, I've been doing that too.

Already, after not having social media as an option for ONE DAY, I feel so much more productive. And I've actually gotten stuff done! I even made a dentist appointment! If you aren't doing it now, you should definitely consider doing a social media fast. It will do WONDERS.

Oh, also, I passed my national test! I got an 84% which... I think is pretty rockin', considering that I have the HARDEST time studying. Which means that I barely studied. So, there's that. So, yay me!

Happy Thursday, everybody!

Mmmmkaylikeyoubyeeeee!

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Monday, July 22, 2013

Social Media Fast

Hey Humans, I finally decided that I'm going to take the challenge (that I gave to myself) and do a week long social media fast. So, this is not using Facebook, Twitter, Instagram,... other social media sites/apps. Basically, I'm limiting myself to Email, Blogging, aaaand texting/calling. Like, I'm deleting the apps off my phone and everything. It's going to be magical! 

So, if you need to reach me (ha!) those are your options. I'm going to start it on Wednesday, so I can still rant and rave and (hopefully) celebrate about my nationals test tomorrow. And also, I wanted to give you guys some time to join me if you'd like! 

Let me know if you plan on doing it with me! It's easier to do something like this if you aren't alone, so I thought I would give you guys the opportunity/idea to do it too. 

Anyway, I'll chat at you guys about it again tomorrow, I'm sure. And by chat about it, I just mean remind you. 

Mmmkaylikeyoubyeee!

Cheers, 
     Reille K. 

Sunday, July 21, 2013

Go Away.

There are moments when I just can't be bothered to go to social events. Which, is most of my life... but I've been trying really hard to get out more lately. And today, today was one of those days that I just couldn't be bothered. Even though he would be there. Even though I would have talked to him. I just... I couldn't be around humans any longer. And it happens all too often for me. The times when I want to be around humans are the times I can't stand them. And the times I don't are the times when they are everywhere and impossible to throw. Just, go away, Humans. Go away.




Thursday, July 18, 2013

More Quirksies

These are just some random thoughts or things about me that I thought someone, somewhere could find interesting/funny/stupid. Enjoy!

- I think that the perfect society would be one where we don't HAVE to wear pants and that's completely acceptable. Pants just... they suck. When I'm at home and no one else is, chances are I don't have pants on.

- I hate the word, "Hubby". Is it really that hard to say Husband?

- I feel really cool and awesome that my blood is potentially HALF Scottish. Like, both sides of my dad's family would be Scottish wayyy way back and that makes me like, half Scottish, right? Not really, but kind of, right? I think Scottish culture and heritage and history is really amazing.

- I've worked at Target for a year... so there's that.

- I used to LOVE painting my nails, but for the past like, year and half- two years, I can't stand having my nails painted and only ever paint my toes.

- I really love drinking juice (specifically Grape and Orange) out of mugs. Even better if I have a straw too. 

- Dr. Seuss is my absolute favorite. And I love him as more than an author. I've taken to reading his biographies and such, and he was just a fantastic human being too. So, I love him. And I decided this week that (if my eventual husband is okay with it, that is) I'm going to name my son Theodor. And if I end up with twins that are a boy and a girl, I'm going to name them Theodor and Elenore! I mean, I want both names to happen. So... yeah. But, how cute, right?! 

- I love SWIMMING. Like, acutal, legitimate SWIMMING. Not like, "let's go swimming" and you just stand around in the pool and talk. Not so much that kind of swimming. 

- I really love puppy ears and cuddles. And by "puppy", I mean dogs of all ages... because I refer to all dogs as puppies. 

- I know a little bit about a lot of things, and that's how I like it. It helps me relate to more people and more TYPES of people. 

I guess these aren't all necessarily quirksies, but, it's fine. 

Mmmkaylikeyoubyeeeee!

Cheers,
     Reille K. 

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

Date VS. Hangout

Not to worry, guys. Real blog post this time. Since THIRTY ONE of you read my last one and I got ZERO comments. And only one on the Facebook link that was just someone bein' sassy. Anyway, I'll get to it.

So, as inspired by a recent life event, I've been ruminating over the whole "dating vs. hanging out" thing. Not like, the pros and cons of each one or anything, but like... What is the difference between going on a date with someone and just hanging out with someone. I mean, if you're hanging out with just the two of you... Is there even a difference?

Here's what I found: If it's a date, it should be clear to both people that it is, in fact, a date. Otherwise, things just get weird and all that jazz. And the only other difference is that it has romantic connotation. Like, you're spending time with this person because you are interested in them romantically. Get my meaning?

If it's just hanging out, you're just spending time with someone to get to know them better or just because you enjoy their company. It COULD be to scope out whether or not you do have romantical type feelings for them also, without the "commitment" of a date.

Basically... they're the same thing. That's what we're getting here, right? I mean, besides the labeling of the situation. You do the same things, right? There is no, "Oh, you can't do that if you're just hanging out. That's something that is EXCLUSIVELY done when on a date," activities... Is there? There is no, "Oh, that can't be done when you're JUST hanging out, you uneducated swine!" Am I right, people? I think I am. Right?

As I do every Wednesday, I went to lunch with my Grandma at Sizzler. (Seriously, every Wednesday, we go.) And I was contemplating this whole subject while we were there and so OF COURSE, I asked her how it was when she was growing up. So, preface, my grandma would have been dating age around the mid-40's.

If a guy and a girl were together. It was a date. There was no "hanging out" between guys and girls back then. A guy was ALWAYS the one to ask. And if a girl asked, which was INCREDIBLY rare, she was considered very forward. The only time it wasn't necessarily a "date" was if the guy just stopped by the girl's house and they "chatted" for a bit. Guys COULD NOT just wait around for the girls to do all the work, otherwise, no one would ever get anywhere. (Now, I'm not saying that I fully expect the guys to make all the moves and all that stuff. Because I don't. I am a WOMAN, people. But, it would be nice if I didn't have to do ALL the work. Ya feel me?)

So, what happened? Why is there such a dichotomy between dating then and dating now? I mean, they both have the same purpose at their core. And they include the same activities. All that's different is the name. So why is the word, "date" so insanely scary for people? Myself included! Is it because there are more expectations going into a date? Because you could easily have the exact same expectations going into a hang out.

It's interesting to see how society has changed and realize that while we're "the valiant generation" and all that jazz, we're really just a bunch of wimps. Really, though.

Have a good week, everybody!

Mmmmkaylikeyoubyeeeeee!

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Tuesday, July 16, 2013

Oh Hey.

Oh hey.

As you may have noticed, I've been feeling kind of grunky about my blog lately. I just feel like I don't have much that I WANT to say about much of anything. But, it's been requested that I write more. Because I guess people like it? When I write? (Jooooookes, I know people like it.) And I need some inspiration. And obviously, since you guys inspire me to write on here, ALL THE TIME. I thought I would ask you. WHAT do YOU want to hear about from me? Is there any burning question you have? A topic that you want to hear my opinion on? Because we all know that I have an opinion on just about everything. Something you want to learn more about and just don't have the motivation to research yourself? Like, for reals, guys. Comment below and PLEASE give me things to think about/talk about.

Also, just in general. Could you guys like, comment on posts? Like, tell me if you like them. Or hate them. Or what you think is funny/ well-written/ boring? Because I really do value your opinions and I want to hear from you! I want more than just seeing the numbers of how many people have read a post, you know? Because I like you guys and I want to appreciate you even more and more specifically. You can comment even if you don't have google or blogger (and by have them I mean, have an account...)! There's an option to just type in your name or URL. So guys. Come on. Give me a little something. :) Please? And thank you in advance too.

Thanks for stopping by! Get down there in the comments and just do it! Even if it's something that's silly. :)

Have a good week, guys!

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Thursday, July 11, 2013

Stitched into This

I began as some bits of fabric, stuffing, maybe a few bits and bobs. With each day, I came together a bit more. My pattern being cut out as I was formed in the warm embrace of my mother's womb. Slowly being stitched around as I grew bigger and stronger. Pieces of stuffing being placed thoughtfully and carefully along the way.

The second I hit the harsh world outside my protection, I was torn. But no one saw. Eventually, it fixed itself. No needles required. A miracle. Secretly I've always wished for the scar.

Slowly, hair was stitched in. More definition added to my face and features. My mouth being ripped out over and over to switch between a smile and a frown.

As I got older, I acquired more rips. Those playing with me not as careful as they should have been. Some stuffing spouting wounds being stitched up better than others, leaving me looking a little ragged in places.

For some time, I thought no one wanted to play with me. Leaving me to wander alone through the woods. But then I came across a Man. He took me in and repaired the poorly sewn rips and tears. Helped me pick out some new clothes. Fixed my limp and sad looking hair. He told me I was beautiful and well crafted. Not anything I had heard before. I knew, in the deepest parts of me, that it was all because of what He did. Before He let me go back into the world, he stitched promises into my heart. Telling me that if upheld my end, all of them would be kept.

Filled with joy, I ran and skipped back into the woods and soon, fell down. Crumbling as I realized that I had tripped on a huge rock; one that I had always been warned about. Devastated, I assessed myself and found a new rip. One that was bigger than ever before. I heard the voice of the Man coming to me from the memories of when he stitched me up himself. Using that as a guide, I stitched myself up. It didn't look right. I wasn't doing it right. I was missing something. But, I didn't want to go back to Him so soon after I just left. He would never trust me to leave again. So I pressed on. Continually tripping over rocks and ripping open my poorly sewn wound over and over again. Finally, I couldn't do it anymore and I went back. I asked for His help and, gently, He scooped me up and gently sewed me back up.

Since then, I've tried to stay close to the Man's house. Sometimes wandering a little farther than I should. But always being able to find my way back. On one of my many trips to visit the Man, he whispered this to me.

"Darling, you've been stitched into this. This person you are now. Each day, experience, person you've met being stitched in one at a time. Becoming a part of you in ways that you can see and a million ways you can't. But no matter what, you get to choose what and who get's stitched in to become part of you."

I went away that day with a new perspective on the world around me. And a new perspective on myself. I wasn't broken. I didn't need to spend my time with people that played roughly with me. I didn't need to spend my time not looking around me and repeatedly tripping over rocks. I was stitched into this, made up of my own choices. And from then on, each choice would be made with deliberation.


Thanks for stopping by! Have a lovely rest of the week!

Mmmmmkaylikeyoubyeeeeee!

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

The Boyfriend

Except... Fiancee. No, not mine! I met Clayton (my bestie)'s fiancee Rob last night. And I could go on and on about what we talked about. What we did. Where we ate. And all those things.

But I'm not going to. Because the only people I want to share that experience with right now were there. Sure, I may share bits and pieces here and there, but... it was a really special night, and I want to keep it for myself. :) 

All you need to know is that I love them. And I am SO incredibly happy for them. And that I was crying by the end of the night, because I was just so dang happy (among other reasons). Sidenote-- Rob. You actually are part of a secret club now. There are few people who have seen the crying, extra emotional side of me. And you now have. Like, it was over a year before it even happened for Clayton :) 

Okay, back to it. For reals though, I think that Rob and Clayton are absolutely perfect for each other and I don't want it any other way. I just. I love them! 

Anyway, thanks for stopping by! 

Have a good rest of the week, everyone! 

Cheers,
     Reille K. 

Sunday, July 7, 2013

Unplugged Sunday

Hello lovelies!

Earlier this evening, I decided to have some time where I was "unplugged". Meaning, I didn't check Twitter, Insta, or Facebook. I didn't use my phone besides telling the time or figuring out plans for tomorrow. I didn't listen to any music.

I read. I painted my toes. I contemplated things.

And it was GREAT. I think I'm going to try and make this like, a thing. Like, A THING. It was really nice to just BE. And not have the urge to touch my phone every ten seconds like I usually do. Lately, I've been starting to hate my phone. 1) Because it really is garbage. I can't type anything starting with the letter T. 2) Because what is my constant checking of Insta and Twitter REALLY doing for me? I deleted Facebook off my phone MONTHS ago, and it's been grand. I'm thinking maybe I'll do a social media fast for a whole week. Sometime soon. Not sure yet. Like, deleting the apps off my phone and errythang. And maybe never putting them back? Hmm. If anyone is interested in doing it with me, let me know in the comments, and we'll chat about it. Like, dead serious.

Also, I get to see my bestie tomorrow! TOMORROW! And I get to meet his BOY! Woo! (His boy's name is Rob, by the way). I haven't seen him since right before they started dating, actually. WHOA. Oooh, I'm just so darn excited! I literally don't know if I'll be able to sleep tonight.

I really don't know what to do. About a certain human. I don't want the blog to turn into just talking about him all the time, so I've been really refraining from just pouring all my thoughts out everyday. It's been hard, guys. But, it really is in your best interests, I think. I just... I don't know if I want to go for it. Because every other time I HAVE gone for it, it doesn't end well for me. Either, they think it's just some stupid thing, not serious at all. Or, they turn out to be VERY interested in talking about my gay bestie, resulting in my realization that, "Oh my gosh, I'm 95% sure that he's gay himself." Which, is great for him. Not so much for me. So, I don't know. I mean, anything that I offered this current human would be strictly hanging out. But, it's easier for me when it's just me and the other person I'm interested in getting to know... so it could be weird. Ugh. Okay, I'll just stop here. I don't really want to get into this right now.

Okay. That's all. Thanks for stopping by!

Goodnight, lovelies! Have a good week!

Mmmmmmkaylikeyoubyeeeeeee!

Cheers,
     Reille K.

Thursday, July 4, 2013

Bloody.

Since I'm sure you're all DYING to hear about my phlebotomy experience. Here it is.

We started out just learning away and I LOVED it. It felt good to be focusing my energies on something so... worthwhile. While it isn't something as crazy important in the medical field as say, a doctor or surgeon, it's still a vital role. As simple as it sounds, there are a lot of things that could go wrong and permanently affect people. It's very important to have correctly trained phlebotomists.

Anyway. Rant-esque passage over.

I couldn't wait to get out there and get to it.

The first night of live practice, I wasn't perfect and that was devastating to me. Which, is silly, I know. But it's really hard for me when I don't get something right away, because I usually do. And I went home and bawled my eyes out. Truth. I finally realized that I hadn't prayed about any part of the class, and I did that and immediately felt so much better about everything. I had been feeling like I had failed and I would never improve and my life was over. Not QUITE that dramatic, but, close enough. ;)

The class went on and it was a crazy ride. The first night of volunteers, my volunteer bailed on me without telling me until I was literally, getting on the freeway. Luckily Meg was available. Seriously, I was livid. But it all worked out.

Then, I was STRUGGLIN' with all the hand sticks. Even still, I'm definitely not nearly as confident with them as I am with AC sticks. (AC is short for Antecubital Fossa, which is the elbow crease where they GENERALLY take blood from). They're reals hard for me. And I hate doing them. Ha! But seriously. Last resort for this lady. But, I finally FINALLY got them all done at the beginning of this week. It was definitely a struggle, but it all worked out. 


My first IV was a little bit of a struggle, I ended up infiltrating the vein, which means that I went through both sides of the vein so the saline solution just goes into the tissue when you're testing it. Which means that the medications and such that you'll be putting into the vein will too. Then, the second IV went well, besides that I didn't occlude the vein hard enough, so she bled out of the catheter a little bit. Then she went into shock, so, that was a little stressful, but it was also hilarious. She was saying the silliest things and I'm glad that I had an instructor there the first time I had someone go into shock. 

My second IV though went perfectly. NO DROPS OF BLOOD CAME OUT OF THE CATHETER!!! It was magical, guys. I felt so dang accomplished when I finished it. Whew! 

It was a really great experience, and it's changed me in ways I never really expected. My life is completely different, and it's kind of weird. It'll also be really weird to have my nights back and not have to drive to and from Lehi every day. 

I still have Nationals, which is at the end of the month. So, I'll be continuing to study study study until then. But, guys! I'm a certified Phlebotomist! 

YAY!

Thanks for stopping by, have a good day! 

Mmmmkaylikeyoubyeeeee!

Cheers,
    Reille K. 

Tuesday, July 2, 2013

In my head

It's a mess in there, didn't you know?

I can't tell if it's overconfidence or just enough.

I hate it when people call me the "smart one", though it's come to seem inevitable, everywhere I go.

I almost always feel inadequate.

Now that it's ending, I don't know. I don't know that I'm cut out for it. I'm scared that I won't be as good as I know I am. And that's a scary feeling. And it doesn't make any sense, I know.

I just want to sit on a porch looking out into the ocean with a cup of hot chocolate and a good book. Forever. Every day and the rest of always. And find someone that likes to kiss my forehead as well as my lips.

And maybe have some babies.

I'm scared.

I'm nervous.

I'm craving something more than what this life has become.

I...

I am.


Look forward to a post about how I did on my finals and all that jazz sometime soon. I don't know how people do this with multiple classes?! I've been realizing more and more that I definitely love me decision that traditional college is not for me. Not for now, at least. Who knows where life will take me? Also, I can't WAIT for the Scottish Festival next (and by next, I mean the 13th) Saturday! I've been looking forward to it all year. Eeeee! I'll maybe try to get some video's of the games this year! Oooh. Something new and different!

I'm all kinds of freaking out. I have finals tonight and tomorrow. And boys. And my awkwardness. And trying really hard to be more social. And being bold. I feel like I'm going crazy. I think I'll go to the library tomorrow. Maybe. That always seems to help me think. And maybe my other happy places too. Yes.

Wish me luck! Thanks for stopping by!

Mmmkaylikeyoubyeeeee!

Cheers,
     Reille K.