some of you may sit there, staring at your google reader, marveling at the enormous amount of posting I've taken part in during the past week or so.
The answer?
Cameron is out of town.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
favorite instance of the saying.
Drew posted a fabulous photo of himself in front of an underwear photo of David Beckham.
I do believe it is a Christmas miracle.
Drew said it better.
It's a Festivus miracle.
I do believe it is a Christmas miracle.
Drew said it better.
It's a Festivus miracle.
an ode.
Ode to the Audi. Ode to the car that is serving me so well. Ode to the car that got me to and from Ogden safely during the great blizzard of December 22. Ode to the car that drives better through the snow than my brother's SUV.
In this case, "ode" could be slightly synonymous with "brag", but forgive me. I am quite proud of my little sedan's capabilities. It has all-wheel drive and these tires that cut through the snow. Naturally said brother had some fun when driving my car up his steep, icy, snow-packed driveway on Christmas day. Pulling a Starsky and Hutch, the car swerved, skidded, jumped, caught air, and landed in a snow bank. But the faithful car resisted.
Until last night.
A metal piece, unable to resist the intensely packed snow pounded into it, dislodged itself from the bottom of my car. Halfway from Salt Lake City to Provo, a woman made me pull over and said, "Thought you'd like to know that something is scraping the road and is sparking." I drove home in fear of my car blowing up (yeah, yeah, yeah, I know nothing about cars, give me a break), stocked up on food at the grocery store, and prepared for a potential few days spent transportation-less.
Well, dear car, I love you so. You are now sitting in a parking lot, waiting to be fixed, and I will miss you so. Until Monday, or Tuesday, or maybe even Wednesday, when we can meet again.
UUUUGGGHHHHHHHHH.
In this case, "ode" could be slightly synonymous with "brag", but forgive me. I am quite proud of my little sedan's capabilities. It has all-wheel drive and these tires that cut through the snow. Naturally said brother had some fun when driving my car up his steep, icy, snow-packed driveway on Christmas day. Pulling a Starsky and Hutch, the car swerved, skidded, jumped, caught air, and landed in a snow bank. But the faithful car resisted.
Until last night.
A metal piece, unable to resist the intensely packed snow pounded into it, dislodged itself from the bottom of my car. Halfway from Salt Lake City to Provo, a woman made me pull over and said, "Thought you'd like to know that something is scraping the road and is sparking." I drove home in fear of my car blowing up (yeah, yeah, yeah, I know nothing about cars, give me a break), stocked up on food at the grocery store, and prepared for a potential few days spent transportation-less.
Well, dear car, I love you so. You are now sitting in a parking lot, waiting to be fixed, and I will miss you so. Until Monday, or Tuesday, or maybe even Wednesday, when we can meet again.
UUUUGGGHHHHHHHHH.
Friday, December 26, 2008
commentary on the carol.
and why, to me, it is Christmas.
*note: this analysis, while not written in full, was in my brain long before I even viewed the video, in other words, the images therein weren't the primary influence. the music was.*
The harmony utilizes an exquisite balance of major and minor chords, the dynamics emphasize the awe we must feel, and yet the repetitive nature supports the simplicity of this event--in its simplest form it is a birth of a child, something that happens every day. The wind instruments are pure in tone and color and in their ease they begin and end this piece; the path to happiness is quite simple and pure, really. When we learn complicated lessons in their most basic components, then we can truly implement them, not only with greater ability, but with truer understanding. It isn't until the bridge that this piece takes full form, manifested first through the strings, and then the a cappella in the choir, and finally, fully realized in a grand choral section accompanied by a strong orchestra.
The beauty and brilliance of this piece is truly held within the orchestra. Voices can sometimes be a bit shrill (as most Sopranos are), but steady strings and calm winds command this piece through their augmented and dominant seventh chords. As much of Rachmaninoff's works did, the piece contains Arabic influence, mysterious and highly introspective. The chord progressions, when combined with the midnight influence of a desert lend to intense nostalgia, significantly supported by a lyric that looks inward while trying to reconcile a debt that will not be repaid in full. The piece is a steady journey, but the minor effects are a bit frustrated. It wants to end calmly but is consistently stuck, again, in accord with the lyric. Finally, the orchestra is able to bring it full circle, the winds taking over and acknowledging that while all earthly things are imperfect, there is still peace to be found in the beautiful gifts we have been given.
Yes, I am a Humanities major (albeit an imperfect one). The point is to discover what is important to the composer, the performers, and then take it a step further and analyze what they might not have immediately known as important (something I will be working on for the rest of my life). Certain things resonate over time, music, perhaps more than any other art form, grows more influential with age. It's so wonderful to sit and listen (or read, or gaze intently at, or watch...etc) to amazing works and discover why they matter. What they mean. What they teach. And finally, how they change us. I get to do this kind of thing every day...wonderful isn't it?
So why does all of this matter? What does this mean? What does this teach? In analyzing the technical components of the piece, namely how it is constructed, we can discover the full importance of the emotional impact. The ultimate goal of a composer is to reach his audience and while some will be so struck by phenomenal technical achievement, the lasting impression is reached through the intangible pull of the heart and soul. Each step is vital. In good music, each note has purpose, each beat conveys an emotion, and each key resonates in different ways. This is why music is so fun to analyze. We can't understand why a minor key or chord (or in a more colloquial form, sad notes) is felt so deeply, there isn't an exact scientific formula (although, I'm sure it's been studied). It just IS. It exists. And it is possibly the most powerful device, next to dynamic, that a composer has in creating something that MATTERS.
While I am not the composer of this piece, it matters to me because the tiny components within the life of Christ seem so basic and yet every act transcends our understanding and ability. There is no possible way that we, as imperfect human beings, can give a gift that matches that of the Atonement. All we can do is give those intangible "its"--our heart, our devotion, our faith, our trust, our love. It's a very introspective idea, and deeply personal. In some respect, this song feels like it must be an Easter piece, just as it is a Christmas carol. There are few religious pieces that capture the frustration that mankind has in reconciling the Atonement, and there are even fewer that achieve it as purely as this. You don't have to understand the musical components to know that it is a bittersweet event.
All complicated analyzations, all intricate musical elements aside, at the end of the day, it does what the best music must--it makes you feel something. It changes your soul, not your intellect. Your heart understands because the music reaches all the way in there, grabs a-hold of it, shakes it around for 4 minutes, and then finally says, "see! It hurts, it's hard, it takes time, and it's frustrating...but isn't it so beautiful?"
Like I said, isn't is so wonderful to be a Humanities major?
In short, this piece is freaking gorgeous and makes my heart hurt and my soul cry. What can I say, I'm a sucker for a great minor chord progression.
*note: this analysis, while not written in full, was in my brain long before I even viewed the video, in other words, the images therein weren't the primary influence. the music was.*
The harmony utilizes an exquisite balance of major and minor chords, the dynamics emphasize the awe we must feel, and yet the repetitive nature supports the simplicity of this event--in its simplest form it is a birth of a child, something that happens every day. The wind instruments are pure in tone and color and in their ease they begin and end this piece; the path to happiness is quite simple and pure, really. When we learn complicated lessons in their most basic components, then we can truly implement them, not only with greater ability, but with truer understanding. It isn't until the bridge that this piece takes full form, manifested first through the strings, and then the a cappella in the choir, and finally, fully realized in a grand choral section accompanied by a strong orchestra.
The beauty and brilliance of this piece is truly held within the orchestra. Voices can sometimes be a bit shrill (as most Sopranos are), but steady strings and calm winds command this piece through their augmented and dominant seventh chords. As much of Rachmaninoff's works did, the piece contains Arabic influence, mysterious and highly introspective. The chord progressions, when combined with the midnight influence of a desert lend to intense nostalgia, significantly supported by a lyric that looks inward while trying to reconcile a debt that will not be repaid in full. The piece is a steady journey, but the minor effects are a bit frustrated. It wants to end calmly but is consistently stuck, again, in accord with the lyric. Finally, the orchestra is able to bring it full circle, the winds taking over and acknowledging that while all earthly things are imperfect, there is still peace to be found in the beautiful gifts we have been given.
Yes, I am a Humanities major (albeit an imperfect one). The point is to discover what is important to the composer, the performers, and then take it a step further and analyze what they might not have immediately known as important (something I will be working on for the rest of my life). Certain things resonate over time, music, perhaps more than any other art form, grows more influential with age. It's so wonderful to sit and listen (or read, or gaze intently at, or watch...etc) to amazing works and discover why they matter. What they mean. What they teach. And finally, how they change us. I get to do this kind of thing every day...wonderful isn't it?
So why does all of this matter? What does this mean? What does this teach? In analyzing the technical components of the piece, namely how it is constructed, we can discover the full importance of the emotional impact. The ultimate goal of a composer is to reach his audience and while some will be so struck by phenomenal technical achievement, the lasting impression is reached through the intangible pull of the heart and soul. Each step is vital. In good music, each note has purpose, each beat conveys an emotion, and each key resonates in different ways. This is why music is so fun to analyze. We can't understand why a minor key or chord (or in a more colloquial form, sad notes) is felt so deeply, there isn't an exact scientific formula (although, I'm sure it's been studied). It just IS. It exists. And it is possibly the most powerful device, next to dynamic, that a composer has in creating something that MATTERS.
While I am not the composer of this piece, it matters to me because the tiny components within the life of Christ seem so basic and yet every act transcends our understanding and ability. There is no possible way that we, as imperfect human beings, can give a gift that matches that of the Atonement. All we can do is give those intangible "its"--our heart, our devotion, our faith, our trust, our love. It's a very introspective idea, and deeply personal. In some respect, this song feels like it must be an Easter piece, just as it is a Christmas carol. There are few religious pieces that capture the frustration that mankind has in reconciling the Atonement, and there are even fewer that achieve it as purely as this. You don't have to understand the musical components to know that it is a bittersweet event.
All complicated analyzations, all intricate musical elements aside, at the end of the day, it does what the best music must--it makes you feel something. It changes your soul, not your intellect. Your heart understands because the music reaches all the way in there, grabs a-hold of it, shakes it around for 4 minutes, and then finally says, "see! It hurts, it's hard, it takes time, and it's frustrating...but isn't it so beautiful?"
Like I said, isn't is so wonderful to be a Humanities major?
In short, this piece is freaking gorgeous and makes my heart hurt and my soul cry. What can I say, I'm a sucker for a great minor chord progression.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
this is Christmas
what shall we give to the lamb who was offered, rising the third day and shedding His love? Tears for His mercy we'll weep at the manger; bathing the infant come down from above
my favorite carol.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
the fiercest threesome.
One lives in New York and dances professionally. One lives in Ecuador and brings souls unto the Lord. And one lives in Utah, stuck in school all day long.
Whitney is still being an amazing missionary, but today brought about the beloved reunion of Jen and Natalie and oh, how sweet it was!
[look how light/short my hair was! so long ago.]
I love this girl with all my heart!
There is indeed only one Natalie Wakefield.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
The saying of the season.
The last two weeks have been filled with the most random occurrences of the saying, "It's a Christmas miracle!"
For example: "The dog didn't mess in his bed while we were gone for 4 hours. It's a Christmas miracle!"
Another example: I only slept a grand total of 10 hours last week, and yet I didn't get sick...it's a Christmas miracle!"
Use it along the lines of "that's what she said," and see what happens.
For example: "The dog didn't mess in his bed while we were gone for 4 hours. It's a Christmas miracle!"
Another example: I only slept a grand total of 10 hours last week, and yet I didn't get sick...it's a Christmas miracle!"
Use it along the lines of "that's what she said," and see what happens.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Wow.
66 hits today, alone? Amazing. I'm highly amused by the cell phone user who's connection appears to originate in Connecticut, Indiana.
Oh. And one of you is sending my link through facebook, as someone connected here straight from their inbox. Hmmmm....
Oh. And one of you is sending my link through facebook, as someone connected here straight from their inbox. Hmmmm....
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
peace.
Early Tuesday morning I walked out of the library at about 1:45 a.m., leaving the gigantic mass of stress and entering an ethereal place devoid of sound or expectation. Remarkably I was alone in my walk to my car, my footsteps the first to pack the newly fallen powder. After 12 straight hours of Christmas music, Coldplay, Beethoven, and Radiohead to get me through the similarly 12 straight hours of syllogistic, truth functional, and quantificational logic and proofs, the muffled sound of a gentle snowstorm was a welcome reprieve from the constant noise. This was the beginning of my finals week and I was already so exhausted and low--how could I possibly handle 8 finals and 3 papers in five short days? But walking through the first significant snowstorm of the year, I felt relieved and so utterly blessed. This snow seemed a gift. And I was at peace.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
I've become so predictable.
I frequent a celebrity gossip blog (and no, if you don't already know what it is, I'm not going to tell you because my dad will call me and be all, "blah blah blah endorsing bad things blah blah blah.) and it brings a lot of humor into my Family History project filled life (except...it's done and turned in and I don't ever have to do a census search ever again halle-freaking-lujah! [run-on sentence intentional]).
Well, some of you may wonder where I developed my lulzy relationship with Twilight.
Thank you ontd (clue!clue!clue!) for providing me with hilarious things to blog about:
[hopefully you can see this. it's a user icon]
Well, some of you may wonder where I developed my lulzy relationship with Twilight.
Thank you ontd (clue!clue!clue!) for providing me with hilarious things to blog about:
[hopefully you can see this. it's a user icon]
ps just teasin' you Dad
Sunday, December 7, 2008
real conversation.
K: Hey Jen, I saw you on tv last night!
J: Wait...what? *racking brain to remember if certain channels show some sort of pageant clips or something. or that old documentary about the Michael Moore vs. Sean Hannity business*
K: Yeah, I was watching a movie when I was falling asleep and when I woke up, I thought I had seen you last night, but then I remembered it was just the movie.
J: Oh. What movie?
K: John Tucker Must Die. You remind me so much of one of the characters.
J: Ahhhhh, Sophia Bush. Yeah, I get that a lot.
K: Which one is she?
J: The one with the dark hair.
K: Ummm...
J: The slutty one.
K: Oh right. Yeah. You remind me of her. The actress, I mean.
true facts.
but hey. the Sophia comparisons keep coming. I'm not complaining.
J: Wait...what? *racking brain to remember if certain channels show some sort of pageant clips or something. or that old documentary about the Michael Moore vs. Sean Hannity business*
K: Yeah, I was watching a movie when I was falling asleep and when I woke up, I thought I had seen you last night, but then I remembered it was just the movie.
J: Oh. What movie?
K: John Tucker Must Die. You remind me so much of one of the characters.
J: Ahhhhh, Sophia Bush. Yeah, I get that a lot.
K: Which one is she?
J: The one with the dark hair.
K: Ummm...
J: The slutty one.
K: Oh right. Yeah. You remind me of her. The actress, I mean.
true facts.
but hey. the Sophia comparisons keep coming. I'm not complaining.
Monday, December 1, 2008
oh what could have been!
The Miss America judges have been announced and I'm definitely feeling some sadness. I would have loved to have competed this year.
Wanna know why?
Oh I don't know. Maybe because I'd be able to stare at this guy for ten full minutes!
It's Cullen Jones, the Olympic swimmer, for those of you that aren't crazy like me.
Seriously. How are you supposed to focus?
Wanna know why?
Oh I don't know. Maybe because I'd be able to stare at this guy for ten full minutes!
It's Cullen Jones, the Olympic swimmer, for those of you that aren't crazy like me.
Seriously. How are you supposed to focus?
Thursday, November 27, 2008
lucky to have...
+nieces that aren't too shy to play barbies in front of me. I was always too shy to play pretend in front of anyone but my little brother or cousins that were my age. (I do have a nephew. But he doesn't play with barbies. yet.)
+a dog that, after grabbing hold of the table cloth, didn't succeed in pulling the turkey, mashed potatoes, green beens, cranberry sauce, and candied yams off of the table.
+friends to go ice skating with...10 years after I last laced 'em up. Can totally still do a scratch spin. Look at me and my basic abilities.
+family to play Settlers of Catan with.
+a best friend that is with his family in another state. This means that for the first time ever, I might actually win Settlers tonight (I'm beginning to believe that he cheats).
Happy Thanksgiving.
+a dog that, after grabbing hold of the table cloth, didn't succeed in pulling the turkey, mashed potatoes, green beens, cranberry sauce, and candied yams off of the table.
+friends to go ice skating with...10 years after I last laced 'em up. Can totally still do a scratch spin. Look at me and my basic abilities.
+family to play Settlers of Catan with.
+a best friend that is with his family in another state. This means that for the first time ever, I might actually win Settlers tonight (I'm beginning to believe that he cheats).
Happy Thanksgiving.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
viva la vida video II
this video makes me giggle. a lot. I wonder what would happen if I wandered around in a royal cape and a cheap crown with a framed Delacroix tucked underneath my arm.
Monday, November 24, 2008
caption please.
quite possibly one of my favorite photos of all time?
Eliza Dushku at the CNN Heroes All-Star Tribute event.
Oh.
And her legs were there, too.
Eliza Dushku at the CNN Heroes All-Star Tribute event.
Oh.
And her legs were there, too.
"I wanna be in your world!"
So here's the thing. You all know that I was fine with Twilight. The books that followed were freaking ridiculous, but I enjoyed the first one enough. And the movie, while pretty bad in some ways, was enjoyable. In fact, I'd probably go see it again to see the man Jennie Garth is having babies with. And for all the crap I give it, in the spirit of Thanksgiving, I give thanks for Twilight and for the serious LULZ it brings (oh internet speak).
Exhibit A: Drew and I stayed up till 3 in the morning laughing about how bad it is. We were teasing our friend Jon for leaving halfway through the game to go watch Twilight, and well, it kind of morphed into something else...
Jonathan is proud to say that his younger sister is much more important than BYU football. 12:45am - 24 Comments
Jen Gulbrandsen at 12:03pm November 23
LIES. Nothing is more important than BYU football, Jon. NOTHING.
Kayliann Lowe at 12:10pm November 23
Way to follow Pres.Monson's advice...make time for the things that really matter. (Even if everyone in Utah sooooo disagrees with you! Ha)
Drew Troutner at 8:35pm November 23
In the middle of the BYU game. She should be watching it too. Two complete extremes. BYU/Utah game. Twilight. I could almost understand if it was actually a good movie.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 12:41am November 24
Actually, I've got to give this one to Drew. Twilight was a hot mess. Well, so was the BYU game. Hmmmm, this is a hard one.
Drew Troutner at 12:42am November 24
but you didn't know that it was a hot mess when you left. In retrospect, it might not look like a bad choice. But what if Max Hall hadn't thrown 5 picks and fumbled it?
Jen Gulbrandsen at 12:45am November 24
That's true. At halftime it was a game. And Twilight was a crappy movie with too much Max Factor Pancake No. 1 complete with *BLINKIES*.
I don't know though. That RPattz is pretty hot right now.
Drew Troutner at 12:55am November 24
so all of my sisters have seen Twilight now, and they all agreed on one thing. It was about as awesome as a hernia.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 12:58am November 24
I don't know about that. This epicness
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H35k6mLub3k
vs this epicness
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AvfGT2aepus
AHHH HOW DO I CHOOSE?!?!?!
Drew Troutner at 1:09am November 24
haha. Is it even really a choice? How could you turn down "catching yourself a bass"? maybe it is even a delicious bass.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 1:20am November 24
It's more than a delicious bass. It's Chuck Bass. Oh WAIT. He's from Gossip Girl.
Guess we're stuck with this hobo. http://i302.photobucket.com/albums/nn113/robertpattinsonismyhero/robert_pattinson_1897602.jpg
Drew Troutner at 1:22am November 24
wow. who would go out in public with hair like that? i know slightly crazy, exotic type hair is know chic, but that is a wee bit extreme.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 1:25am November 24
Cedric Diggory is NOT amused http://images.quizfarm.com/1135876711cedric.jpg
Drew Troutner at 1:27am November 24
He might not be, but this guy sure is
http://k41.pbase.com/o2/74/450574/1/97006726.D8ZlcOE6.vietnam004.jpg
Jen Gulbrandsen at 1:34am November 24
http://alicia-logic.com/capsimages01/hp4gf_058RobertPattinson.jpg
Do I dazzle you?
Drew Troutner at 1:38am November 24
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J28MU9ydPKs/R8faHPVyznI/AAAAAAAAFxI/HJ6uuxDBGs8/s1600-h/image003.jpg
Do I dazzle you back?
Jen Gulbrandsen at 1:39am November 24
can't...stop...looking...
http://robertpattinson.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/robert-pattinson-les-deux.jpg
Drew Troutner at 1:45am November 24
I love how we have completely stopped talking about BYU and have now fallen in love with the beautiful pictures of Robert Pattinson. We need more of this: http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v71/124/2/17819014/n17819014_32619589_4499.jpg
Jen Gulbrandsen at 1:53am November 24
Cedric just died.
http://www.hotflick.net/flicks/2005_Harry_Potter_and_the_Goblet_of_Fire/Thumb/005HPG_Robert_Pattinson_019.jpg
Wait...wait...wait... OMG he's ALIVE! And still 17!
http://i302.photobucket.com/albums/nn113/robertpattinsonismyhero/edward.jpg
The Utes have to give up. After all RPattz/Ced/Eddie is an English Major Coug. There's nothing they can do but play dead http://deseretnews.com/photos/midres/4851153.jpg
Jen Gulbrandsen at 2:18am November 24
Oh. I know what did it. I found the answer. How could anyone pick ANYTHING over Twilight after seeing how "OMG AMAZING!!!!" it's going to be?!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFG9lXc2upQ
Jen Gulbrandsen at 2:29am November 24
Sorry Jon, we were bored. But we still like you!
Drew Troutner at 2:30am November 24
Wow. There is absolutely nothing I can do to top that last video. You win Jen.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 2:33am November 24
I always save the best for last. Like Edward. I could have given you the video at the start, in the way Edward could have bitten Bella from the start. We wouldn't have had to go through the agony of the annoying, crappy photos (or in this story, the obnoxious whiny entity that is Bella). But oh the APPRECIATION and the ultimate JOY we feel when he finally bites her and we don't have to read ANYMORE!
Drew Troutner at 2:35am November 24
Ha. Guess I don't need to read the books now.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 2:47am November 24
Glad I saved you.
This is the movie I ended it with. THIS IS A MUST SEE. Some random girl has a million videos of her reactions to Twilight trailers and Twilight actor TV appearances. Pure gold. *warning* some explicit language towards the end. Seriously, this is hilarious.
Exhibit A: Drew and I stayed up till 3 in the morning laughing about how bad it is. We were teasing our friend Jon for leaving halfway through the game to go watch Twilight, and well, it kind of morphed into something else...
Jonathan is proud to say that his younger sister is much more important than BYU football. 12:45am - 24 Comments
Jen Gulbrandsen at 12:03pm November 23
LIES. Nothing is more important than BYU football, Jon. NOTHING.
Kayliann Lowe at 12:10pm November 23
Way to follow Pres.Monson's advice...make time for the things that really matter. (Even if everyone in Utah sooooo disagrees with you! Ha)
Drew Troutner at 8:35pm November 23
In the middle of the BYU game. She should be watching it too. Two complete extremes. BYU/Utah game. Twilight. I could almost understand if it was actually a good movie.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 12:41am November 24
Actually, I've got to give this one to Drew. Twilight was a hot mess. Well, so was the BYU game. Hmmmm, this is a hard one.
Drew Troutner at 12:42am November 24
but you didn't know that it was a hot mess when you left. In retrospect, it might not look like a bad choice. But what if Max Hall hadn't thrown 5 picks and fumbled it?
Jen Gulbrandsen at 12:45am November 24
That's true. At halftime it was a game. And Twilight was a crappy movie with too much Max Factor Pancake No. 1 complete with *BLINKIES*.
I don't know though. That RPattz is pretty hot right now.
Drew Troutner at 12:55am November 24
so all of my sisters have seen Twilight now, and they all agreed on one thing. It was about as awesome as a hernia.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 12:58am November 24
I don't know about that. This epicness
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H35k6mLub3k
vs this epicness
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AvfGT2aepus
AHHH HOW DO I CHOOSE?!?!?!
Drew Troutner at 1:09am November 24
haha. Is it even really a choice? How could you turn down "catching yourself a bass"? maybe it is even a delicious bass.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 1:20am November 24
It's more than a delicious bass. It's Chuck Bass. Oh WAIT. He's from Gossip Girl.
Guess we're stuck with this hobo. http://i302.photobucket.com/albums/nn113/robertpattinsonismyhero/robert_pattinson_1897602.jpg
Drew Troutner at 1:22am November 24
wow. who would go out in public with hair like that? i know slightly crazy, exotic type hair is know chic, but that is a wee bit extreme.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 1:25am November 24
Cedric Diggory is NOT amused http://images.quizfarm.com/1135876711cedric.jpg
Drew Troutner at 1:27am November 24
He might not be, but this guy sure is
http://k41.pbase.com/o2/74/450574/1/97006726.D8ZlcOE6.vietnam004.jpg
Jen Gulbrandsen at 1:34am November 24
http://alicia-logic.com/capsimages01/hp4gf_058RobertPattinson.jpg
Do I dazzle you?
Drew Troutner at 1:38am November 24
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_J28MU9ydPKs/R8faHPVyznI/AAAAAAAAFxI/HJ6uuxDBGs8/s1600-h/image003.jpg
Do I dazzle you back?
Jen Gulbrandsen at 1:39am November 24
can't...stop...looking...
http://robertpattinson.org/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/robert-pattinson-les-deux.jpg
Drew Troutner at 1:45am November 24
I love how we have completely stopped talking about BYU and have now fallen in love with the beautiful pictures of Robert Pattinson. We need more of this: http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v71/124/2/17819014/n17819014_32619589_4499.jpg
Jen Gulbrandsen at 1:53am November 24
Cedric just died.
http://www.hotflick.net/flicks/2005_Harry_Potter_and_the_Goblet_of_Fire/Thumb/005HPG_Robert_Pattinson_019.jpg
Wait...wait...wait... OMG he's ALIVE! And still 17!
http://i302.photobucket.com/albums/nn113/robertpattinsonismyhero/edward.jpg
The Utes have to give up. After all RPattz/Ced/Eddie is an English Major Coug. There's nothing they can do but play dead http://deseretnews.com/photos/midres/4851153.jpg
Jen Gulbrandsen at 2:18am November 24
Oh. I know what did it. I found the answer. How could anyone pick ANYTHING over Twilight after seeing how "OMG AMAZING!!!!" it's going to be?!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFG9lXc2upQ
Jen Gulbrandsen at 2:29am November 24
Sorry Jon, we were bored. But we still like you!
Drew Troutner at 2:30am November 24
Wow. There is absolutely nothing I can do to top that last video. You win Jen.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 2:33am November 24
I always save the best for last. Like Edward. I could have given you the video at the start, in the way Edward could have bitten Bella from the start. We wouldn't have had to go through the agony of the annoying, crappy photos (or in this story, the obnoxious whiny entity that is Bella). But oh the APPRECIATION and the ultimate JOY we feel when he finally bites her and we don't have to read ANYMORE!
Drew Troutner at 2:35am November 24
Ha. Guess I don't need to read the books now.
Jen Gulbrandsen at 2:47am November 24
Glad I saved you.
This is the movie I ended it with. THIS IS A MUST SEE. Some random girl has a million videos of her reactions to Twilight trailers and Twilight actor TV appearances. Pure gold. *warning* some explicit language towards the end. Seriously, this is hilarious.
give me real, don't give me fake.
BYU lost. But I got to see Coldplay live and they played a few songs that made up for the loss (and the enormous sea of red in the crowd).
I still remember the first time I ever heard a Coldplay song. It was in early 2003 and I was in the car with Becky and this kid Jordan that I had this odd crush on (one of these days I should tell of my crazy antics in high school. Oh the immaturity), and he had the CD A Rush of Blood to the Head playing. I heard the song Politik and was intrigued, and then heard Clocks--I was completely mesmerized (which is funny, considering I can hardly stand it these days). It's no secret that I had absolutely horrid taste in music. I had grown up listening mostly to Classical and Broadway music, with a little Pink Floyd and Rush thrown in there, but Coldplay was the first band that I really got into. By no means is Coldplay the best band out there, but considering my abysmal taste and lack of musical education (Michelle Branch, anyone?), they helped ease me into the world of Alternative.
When I was a cheerleader my junior year in high school, I would pass the time on the long bus rides by listening to music. Away games during basketball season were so long, we'd be there for 5-6 hours, and it was during those hours that I pulled out my little blue Sony CD player (oh the days!), popped in Parachutes or A Rush of Blood to the Head, and tuned the rest of the world out as Chris Martin spoke to my 16 year old soul. My life was kind of complicated and in a lot of ways, I was pretty lost. A parent's divorce, a move to the other side of the country, and losing all of the things that I had loved had a much stronger emotional impact than I wanted to admit. But listening to Amsterdam, or Warning Sign, or Everything's Not Lost brought me a lot of peace and comfort needed during a time where I had shut out everyone and everything else. To this day those 3 songs are something special.
It's too bad that this is the only time I've seen Coldplay in concert, I wish I had seen them on one of their previous tours, I'll bet there was a wonderful quality in the band that wasn't the international success that they are now. But last night was still magical. The most exciting thing was the energy. I had expected them to be pretentious, after all, it is Chris Martin, but instead he was a gangly, awkward creature running, leaping, and rolling around on stage, excited to just be performing. It seemed so poetic to be there with one of my oldest and closest friends, celebrating the wonderful things (and sometimes heart-breaking things) we've experienced together.
They opened with my favorite song from their latest album and it brought back some bitter-sweet memories that I have connected with that particular song. About 45 seconds into it I realized that I should probably video tape it, to try and capture the moment. Unfortunately it just doesn't transfer well to my little camera.
Almost 6 years later, my soul has healed and evolved, those days of silent despair have finally left. Instead I am living a life full of pure joy, the sweetness hard to describe. But the contentment I feel resides within these chords and within the raw nature of the beat.
It really is beautiful.
I still remember the first time I ever heard a Coldplay song. It was in early 2003 and I was in the car with Becky and this kid Jordan that I had this odd crush on (one of these days I should tell of my crazy antics in high school. Oh the immaturity), and he had the CD A Rush of Blood to the Head playing. I heard the song Politik and was intrigued, and then heard Clocks--I was completely mesmerized (which is funny, considering I can hardly stand it these days). It's no secret that I had absolutely horrid taste in music. I had grown up listening mostly to Classical and Broadway music, with a little Pink Floyd and Rush thrown in there, but Coldplay was the first band that I really got into. By no means is Coldplay the best band out there, but considering my abysmal taste and lack of musical education (Michelle Branch, anyone?), they helped ease me into the world of Alternative.
When I was a cheerleader my junior year in high school, I would pass the time on the long bus rides by listening to music. Away games during basketball season were so long, we'd be there for 5-6 hours, and it was during those hours that I pulled out my little blue Sony CD player (oh the days!), popped in Parachutes or A Rush of Blood to the Head, and tuned the rest of the world out as Chris Martin spoke to my 16 year old soul. My life was kind of complicated and in a lot of ways, I was pretty lost. A parent's divorce, a move to the other side of the country, and losing all of the things that I had loved had a much stronger emotional impact than I wanted to admit. But listening to Amsterdam, or Warning Sign, or Everything's Not Lost brought me a lot of peace and comfort needed during a time where I had shut out everyone and everything else. To this day those 3 songs are something special.
It's too bad that this is the only time I've seen Coldplay in concert, I wish I had seen them on one of their previous tours, I'll bet there was a wonderful quality in the band that wasn't the international success that they are now. But last night was still magical. The most exciting thing was the energy. I had expected them to be pretentious, after all, it is Chris Martin, but instead he was a gangly, awkward creature running, leaping, and rolling around on stage, excited to just be performing. It seemed so poetic to be there with one of my oldest and closest friends, celebrating the wonderful things (and sometimes heart-breaking things) we've experienced together.
They opened with my favorite song from their latest album and it brought back some bitter-sweet memories that I have connected with that particular song. About 45 seconds into it I realized that I should probably video tape it, to try and capture the moment. Unfortunately it just doesn't transfer well to my little camera.
Almost 6 years later, my soul has healed and evolved, those days of silent despair have finally left. Instead I am living a life full of pure joy, the sweetness hard to describe. But the contentment I feel resides within these chords and within the raw nature of the beat.
It really is beautiful.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
ready to fight.
My little brother Scott gave an amazing farewell address last Sunday (and entered the MTC Wednesday, more to come on that [and dancesport] later), and in true fashion, he managed to teach us all while still maintaining his personality and sense of humor.
This is an excerpt from the beginning of his talk when he was describing the indescribable feeling of receiving a call to serve the Lord:
"Then suddenly as I read my report date of November 19th, reality returned. As my heart started to race again, I worriedly asked, "Am I going to miss the BYU-Utah game?" The answer was "yes." Although I don't know how BYU will be able to pull off a win without me screaming at the TV, I do have faith that the Cougars will be blessed for my dedication and will be led to victory."
K boys. Let's get it done.
This is an excerpt from the beginning of his talk when he was describing the indescribable feeling of receiving a call to serve the Lord:
"Then suddenly as I read my report date of November 19th, reality returned. As my heart started to race again, I worriedly asked, "Am I going to miss the BYU-Utah game?" The answer was "yes." Although I don't know how BYU will be able to pull off a win without me screaming at the TV, I do have faith that the Cougars will be blessed for my dedication and will be led to victory."
K boys. Let's get it done.
overruled, but certainly not defeated.
So Twilight is having the 2nd best November opening ever. Are we really surprised? No. Wait...I saw the movie last night?! Now that IS surprising. And here's the more surprising thing: it wasn't as full of FAIL as I had thought it would be (but I think a lot of that is attributed to the fact that Emmett never says his oh-so-angsty-"She's not one of us!!!!" line), and the man that plays Carlisle is sufficiently attractive (wait...he's married to JENNIE GARTH? NO WAY).
I was even enjoying myself. True, the first scene in Biology was so unintentionally funny, it hurt, and his line, "I feel very possessive protective of you" had me rolling from the irony, but it was quite entertaining really. It had the fun elements of the story that I had enjoyed when reading the book without Bella's constant whining about how hard it is when everyone is paying attention to you, AND it told the story in only 2 hours, a huge plus.
And then this phrase popped out of the mouth of Carlisle, "Edward...Remember who you are".
Return with Honor.
Choose the Right.
Wait...WHAT?!
Yes, he really said it. And I snick-orted (a huge laugh that comes out of your mouth and nose, usually accompanied by a convulsed body action). Loudly. Some of the audience laughed nervously in the way people do when LDS terms are mentioned in pop culture by the non-LDS. And the movie lost almost all of the credibility it had achieved in my mind (the blatant, and lame, cameo by SMeyer had almost done the same thing, but then Carlisle popped on screen again).
So I guess this is my review. It's not awful. No, it is NOT Oscar worthy SMeyer, but RPattz isn't horrid to look at and Nikki Reed is stunning, even when they put an awful blonde wig on her.
Enjoy the movie, don't be angry at my honest opinion, and just remember, this is what he really looks like without all that Max Factor Pancake No. 1.
I was even enjoying myself. True, the first scene in Biology was so unintentionally funny, it hurt, and his line, "I feel very possessive protective of you" had me rolling from the irony, but it was quite entertaining really. It had the fun elements of the story that I had enjoyed when reading the book without Bella's constant whining about how hard it is when everyone is paying attention to you, AND it told the story in only 2 hours, a huge plus.
And then this phrase popped out of the mouth of Carlisle, "Edward...Remember who you are".
Return with Honor.
Choose the Right.
Wait...WHAT?!
Yes, he really said it. And I snick-orted (a huge laugh that comes out of your mouth and nose, usually accompanied by a convulsed body action). Loudly. Some of the audience laughed nervously in the way people do when LDS terms are mentioned in pop culture by the non-LDS. And the movie lost almost all of the credibility it had achieved in my mind (the blatant, and lame, cameo by SMeyer had almost done the same thing, but then Carlisle popped on screen again).
So I guess this is my review. It's not awful. No, it is NOT Oscar worthy SMeyer, but RPattz isn't horrid to look at and Nikki Reed is stunning, even when they put an awful blonde wig on her.
Enjoy the movie, don't be angry at my honest opinion, and just remember, this is what he really looks like without all that Max Factor Pancake No. 1.
dear rpattz, please go take a shower. kthnxbye.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
I love The Soup.
ALSO. CLICKY CLICKY FOR ROGER EBERT'S REVIEW OF TWILIGHT.
"Come on now, what is "Twilight" really about? It's about a teenage boy trying to practice abstinence, and how, in the heat of the moment, it's really, really hard."
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
gossip girls.
Nope, not this. The pageant kind.
[warning: this entry is full of parentheses. and I'm too lazy to edit it into a more enjoyable literary format. too bad. just call me smeyer.]
When I was 16 I had the most amazing experience of interning for Sean Hannity (side note: I should write about that one of these days) and on my last full day of work, he allowed me to be in charge of the Man on the Street segment (PS does anyone still have this clip? I'd love to have it), and then later had me come into the room with him and chat with people on air (my head still spins thinking about being the youngest intern out of 3 working at the time, and yet being one of the only interns to ever receive such a privilege). Essentially you have to go out into the streets of NY with with Sean on your cell phone and find people who will unknowingly make fools of themselves. One woman had such an experience and then proceeded to call me all sorts of names, and being the fragile, sometimes self-conscious teenager I was, I kept telling Sean how badly I felt for having to call her out on what she was saying. And then I received some of the best advice someone has ever given. He said (well, something to this effect), "Do you really think I care if everybody loves me? Why are you so worried about being liked by everyone? There are going to come times when people, for whatever reason, won't like you and you have to learn to be okay with that".
The reason I bring this up is because I made some close friends at Miss Utah this last year and every once in a while [read: it's happened twice] when we're hanging out or talking on the phone, I'll be informed of this rumor or that rumor, or of the gossip being spread. Essentially, I found out that someone I assumed had good feelings toward me in fact doesn't like me and is spreading innuendo.
All I can do is laugh. It's happened before. A girl that really didn't even know me told my then friend and now boyfriend of 2 years to stay away from me (thank goodness he straightened that out....and now she and I are friends). So here it is again (and how ironic that the thoughts are so similar, which leads me to wonder if someone else they have in common is saying such things, too), and the discovery that someone is defaming your character certainly hurts. And then I wonder what leads them to speak that way. And to say this to a friend of mine. Did I ever say anything mean about them in a public forum, or even privately to someone?
Truthfully, I have a very difficult time being fake and I have a difficult time being around those that are. If your attitude bothers me and if I sense a facade, I'm probably just going to quietly stay away, not to be rude, but to protect myself from negativity (especially since pageants can indeed be vicious environments if you surround yourself with one of the few bad apples). But it's still hard to not be *loved* by everybody (how vain of me). When you put in a concerted effort to make everyone feel good about themselves, it is difficult to hear the back biting gossip. But if my work in being genuine to everyone still rests in vain with 3 or 4 girls, I have to remember what Sean said. Not everyone will like me. I have to get over it. And take it with grace.
Yet another good lesson that is being learned.
so keep on calling me names, keep on, keep on.
[this might be the most controversial post I've ever posted that hasn't been shielded by the protection of my friends only blog restrictions. It's a very exposing feeling, taking chances with a public audience.]
[warning: this entry is full of parentheses. and I'm too lazy to edit it into a more enjoyable literary format. too bad. just call me smeyer.]
When I was 16 I had the most amazing experience of interning for Sean Hannity (side note: I should write about that one of these days) and on my last full day of work, he allowed me to be in charge of the Man on the Street segment (PS does anyone still have this clip? I'd love to have it), and then later had me come into the room with him and chat with people on air (my head still spins thinking about being the youngest intern out of 3 working at the time, and yet being one of the only interns to ever receive such a privilege). Essentially you have to go out into the streets of NY with with Sean on your cell phone and find people who will unknowingly make fools of themselves. One woman had such an experience and then proceeded to call me all sorts of names, and being the fragile, sometimes self-conscious teenager I was, I kept telling Sean how badly I felt for having to call her out on what she was saying. And then I received some of the best advice someone has ever given. He said (well, something to this effect), "Do you really think I care if everybody loves me? Why are you so worried about being liked by everyone? There are going to come times when people, for whatever reason, won't like you and you have to learn to be okay with that".
The reason I bring this up is because I made some close friends at Miss Utah this last year and every once in a while [read: it's happened twice] when we're hanging out or talking on the phone, I'll be informed of this rumor or that rumor, or of the gossip being spread. Essentially, I found out that someone I assumed had good feelings toward me in fact doesn't like me and is spreading innuendo.
All I can do is laugh. It's happened before. A girl that really didn't even know me told my then friend and now boyfriend of 2 years to stay away from me (thank goodness he straightened that out....and now she and I are friends). So here it is again (and how ironic that the thoughts are so similar, which leads me to wonder if someone else they have in common is saying such things, too), and the discovery that someone is defaming your character certainly hurts. And then I wonder what leads them to speak that way. And to say this to a friend of mine. Did I ever say anything mean about them in a public forum, or even privately to someone?
Truthfully, I have a very difficult time being fake and I have a difficult time being around those that are. If your attitude bothers me and if I sense a facade, I'm probably just going to quietly stay away, not to be rude, but to protect myself from negativity (especially since pageants can indeed be vicious environments if you surround yourself with one of the few bad apples). But it's still hard to not be *loved* by everybody (how vain of me). When you put in a concerted effort to make everyone feel good about themselves, it is difficult to hear the back biting gossip. But if my work in being genuine to everyone still rests in vain with 3 or 4 girls, I have to remember what Sean said. Not everyone will like me. I have to get over it. And take it with grace.
Yet another good lesson that is being learned.
so keep on calling me names, keep on, keep on.
[this might be the most controversial post I've ever posted that hasn't been shielded by the protection of my friends only blog restrictions. It's a very exposing feeling, taking chances with a public audience.]
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
protective.
Have you ever had the experience of hearing a song and immediately feeling a strong connection to it? Whether it's the lyrics, or the chord progressions, or the rhythm...something within the song resonates and sucks emotion right out of you. You know that thousands of people are listening to this same song, but in your heart you can't help but believe that those thousands cannot hear or interpret the song the way you do, that it speaks to you on a higher level and therefore you have claim. I have several songs that touch me this way and I'm proud to say that they generally end up being the lesser popular pieces from artists (and I choose to believe that it's because my musical tastes transcend those of the popular masses :P ).
I just recently found another one to add to my collection. It stirs up so many strong emotions within, it's melody is so pure that it makes my heart truly ache. For some time I've been wanting to have a solo choreographed, just to have on hand if I ever need to perform at something or another (you all know that I like to switch things up and utilize all of the things that I love) and this song has just become a front runner.
But what happens when you open up about a song that feels so deeply connected to your emotional being? What happens when someone turns it into a series of pirouettes and extensions and what happens when an audience only chooses to view it as technical elements, rather than an emotional whole?
Often I leave my favorite piano pieces or songs to myself because I'm frightened of the criticism that threatens pieces of my soul.
Perhaps I will save this particular song for an audience that cares about more than just the tricks performed for the 35% of your score.
Because if I can't trust the music that drives my heart then I will lose so much of what makes me who I am.
I just recently found another one to add to my collection. It stirs up so many strong emotions within, it's melody is so pure that it makes my heart truly ache. For some time I've been wanting to have a solo choreographed, just to have on hand if I ever need to perform at something or another (you all know that I like to switch things up and utilize all of the things that I love) and this song has just become a front runner.
But what happens when you open up about a song that feels so deeply connected to your emotional being? What happens when someone turns it into a series of pirouettes and extensions and what happens when an audience only chooses to view it as technical elements, rather than an emotional whole?
Often I leave my favorite piano pieces or songs to myself because I'm frightened of the criticism that threatens pieces of my soul.
Perhaps I will save this particular song for an audience that cares about more than just the tricks performed for the 35% of your score.
Because if I can't trust the music that drives my heart then I will lose so much of what makes me who I am.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Sunday, November 9, 2008
need need need need
Having a really hard time not listening to Christmas music....
I just want to break out the Rooney and Harry Connick Jr., and I'm dying to bring out my favorite Christmas episodes and movies. Love Actually is calling my name and Sarah McLachlan's Christmas album is a keeper.
Just 18 more days. I can make it.
I think.
I just want to break out the Rooney and Harry Connick Jr., and I'm dying to bring out my favorite Christmas episodes and movies. Love Actually is calling my name and Sarah McLachlan's Christmas album is a keeper.
Just 18 more days. I can make it.
I think.
Friday, November 7, 2008
here we go.
Tomorrow begins my entrance into ballroom dancing. It's scary because I am NOT a ballroom dancer and it's hard because I want so badly to be one. Will we do well? Eh, who knows. This is my first time competing open and I don't know if I'll even begin to feel ready for some time, but I stuck on some fake nails and while I hate them (and they even LOOK like stick-ons, oh well), I'm excited for all of the bells and whistles that come along with this crazy world.
If I'm not here over the next week or so, it's due to competitions and 4 midterms.
[also, pray for my shoes. They're still a dark dark brown, not the black the dye promised they would be]
If I'm not here over the next week or so, it's due to competitions and 4 midterms.
[also, pray for my shoes. They're still a dark dark brown, not the black the dye promised they would be]
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
a new era.
Some of you are sad tonight, the man you voted for did not win, but I would hope that those who were in support of John McCain can still be grateful for the opportunity we possess as an American people, that we are able to have this remarkable change of power that happens not as a result of bloody revolution, but peaceful popular vote (which of course leads to the lovely electorate, another entry...). This election was special to me for two reasons. Firstly, because it was my first presidential election, secondly, I've been completely apathetic and turned off towards politics. It has not been something I've become too involved in. Many are reporting that this campaign has gone on for 21 months. 21 months! It's ridiculous how long this has taken and I've become so sick of it.
Tonight, however, I had just gotten home from practice, turned my TV on, and saw the electoral vote soar past the 270 mark and watched the celebration begin. My heart filled with emotion for the steps our country has taken and my cynicism was replaced with an overwhelming swell of pride.
President Elect Obama may not be my preference with regard to health care or the economy, but the phrase "an historic moment" has been said this evening more often than any other and I have to say it as well. I feel a little silly (and in fact was mocked by my SO when I mentioned it), but tears came to my eyes when the announcement was made. I am proud to be an American. I am proud to have taken part in this amazing event. More than anything else, I am proud to have voted for someone who represents the incredible journey our country has taken in providing equality for all and I hope that, as the votes are counted in other states, the ideals of equality will be maintained.
Whew, what a night.
Tonight, however, I had just gotten home from practice, turned my TV on, and saw the electoral vote soar past the 270 mark and watched the celebration begin. My heart filled with emotion for the steps our country has taken and my cynicism was replaced with an overwhelming swell of pride.
President Elect Obama may not be my preference with regard to health care or the economy, but the phrase "an historic moment" has been said this evening more often than any other and I have to say it as well. I feel a little silly (and in fact was mocked by my SO when I mentioned it), but tears came to my eyes when the announcement was made. I am proud to be an American. I am proud to have taken part in this amazing event. More than anything else, I am proud to have voted for someone who represents the incredible journey our country has taken in providing equality for all and I hope that, as the votes are counted in other states, the ideals of equality will be maintained.
Whew, what a night.
some funny memories.
note: these aren't exactly child-friendly. And don't get mad at me if there are a couple of inappropriate jokes.
Unfortunately the new stuff just isn't as good.
indecision 2008
so I'm here at the middle school I'm voting at and I am still undecided as to the presidential election. The idiot vs the economic disaster.
Stephen Colbert it is!
Stephen Colbert it is!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
truth.
There's no question that I believe firmly in the power of music. Often I'll turn to John Mayer, or Radiohead, or Muse, or Norah Jones, or Chris Martin when I need answers or perspective.
However, I find myself turning to others over and over again when the questions are more complex and the answers more difficult to find. In those moments when I desperately need peace, I move a different direction. Instead I look to this when my head is spinning, this movement when my heart hurts, the Allegretto from this brilliant work accompanies my sorrow, the third movement from this suite heals my soul, and this Adagio brings me home as a reminder of how wonderful life can be.
I know them so well. I know the men that created them so well. I only wish the answers came as easily.
However, I find myself turning to others over and over again when the questions are more complex and the answers more difficult to find. In those moments when I desperately need peace, I move a different direction. Instead I look to this when my head is spinning, this movement when my heart hurts, the Allegretto from this brilliant work accompanies my sorrow, the third movement from this suite heals my soul, and this Adagio brings me home as a reminder of how wonderful life can be.
I know them so well. I know the men that created them so well. I only wish the answers came as easily.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
"...so?"
watch. just watch. yeah, it's 9 minutes. but it's 9 minutes of awesomeness aka Christina and Dr. McMajor, with the last two minutes making the entire episode worth it. want want want want.
I know this happened 6 weeks ago. I don't care. He blows McSteamy out of the water...and that's saying something.
hahahahaha.
The entire audience is laughing hysterically. Those who aren't 12 are laughing at the abysmal acting by RPatz and his awful hair.
EMILY WE ARE GOING. Even if it's painful.
oh, and p.s. this is from a showing in Rome. I'm surprised the entire movie hasn't leaked yet.
EMILY WE ARE GOING. Even if it's painful.
oh, and p.s. this is from a showing in Rome. I'm surprised the entire movie hasn't leaked yet.
SIDE NOTE: They're ruining Clair de lune :(
Sunday, October 26, 2008
sad mess.
A year back or so I had a discussion with a friend about drug use. He was arguing that drugs themselves aren't inherently bad for you, it's the abuse that's bad. A complicated argument, I suppose, and I actually disagree because I firmly believe that a little bit of drug use could lead to some sort of abuse.
The slippery slop leads to this:
The slippery slop leads to this:
Thursday, October 23, 2008
cynicism ends here.
I'm taking a much needed vacation that has been booked since LAST October.
Peace.
Peace.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Whaaaa....?!?!
Singer Brian Stokes Mitchell and actor Edward Herrmann will be the featured guest artists for Ring, Christmas Bells, this year's Christmas concerts by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square.
in another life I'd be crazy happy about BSM and his gorgeous voice...but uh...it's Richard Gilmore. please please please let this be the year I actually get tickets.
PAPA GILMORE!!!
in another life I'd be crazy happy about BSM and his gorgeous voice...but uh...it's Richard Gilmore. please please please let this be the year I actually get tickets.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Nietzsche was right.
There is no true altruism.
Although, my addendum is that there is no true altruism in families.
Although, my addendum is that there is no true altruism in families.
reason #23481 Humanities is awesome.
In my Interdisciplinary class we were talking about Romanesque and Gothic architecture which led to some discussion on how the LDS church utilizes very little flash and trash for their church buildings (no offense intended to the pretty, pretty buildings the Catholic church builds. Love 'em), which somehow segued into random land (as usually happens about five times per class). My professor started talking about how times have changed with hymns. In the 1800s there was a specific sound being written, then came the feel-good "My Time on Earth" phase, into what my professor calls the Broadway show tune phase.
"Whenever we sing "Called to Serve" I always expect the Rockettes to come out kicking."
"Whenever we sing "Called to Serve" I always expect the Rockettes to come out kicking."
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Top 5 Gilmore Girls moment...
...easily.
This is the time in my GG viewing (because I go through a cycle, every six months or so where I start at the beginning and watch the entire series. I need a GG movie LIKE WHOA) when I shake my head and wonder why people really love Jess so much and why people really loathe Logan so much.
So ASP did some weird things with the Logan story-line...he was hot, and adorable, and intellectually her equal, and quite frankly, a heck of a lot more likable than Rory (arguably my least favorite GG character).
Debate, and discuss.
This is the time in my GG viewing (because I go through a cycle, every six months or so where I start at the beginning and watch the entire series. I need a GG movie LIKE WHOA) when I shake my head and wonder why people really love Jess so much and why people really loathe Logan so much.
So ASP did some weird things with the Logan story-line...he was hot, and adorable, and intellectually her equal, and quite frankly, a heck of a lot more likable than Rory (arguably my least favorite GG character).
Debate, and discuss.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
If I were Hillary Clinton
I'd want John McCain to win so that I could swoop in in 4 years and save America with my pantsuits.
forgive my salivating.
This is an incredible piece of machinery and technology. I'm crossing my fingers that I'll be able to upgrade to this gorgeous notebook sometime soon. No more clicking for a mouse, a large track pad, gorgeous glass screen, back lit keyboard, FULL size keyboard, and CORRECTION 250 GB hard drive in addition to an incredibly fast processor.
Yeah, I'll drink whatever Kool-Aid Steve Jobs gives me.
Also, if you remember this post, then you'd probably be interested to know that they have indeed increased the storage space. Also at 120 GB held within its tiny little frame. If it weren't for the incredible specs offered with the Pro, I'd go for this stunning, petite beauty.
Yeah, I'll drink whatever Kool-Aid Steve Jobs gives me.
Also, if you remember this post, then you'd probably be interested to know that they have indeed increased the storage space. Also at 120 GB held within its tiny little frame. If it weren't for the incredible specs offered with the Pro, I'd go for this stunning, petite beauty.
perfectionism.
Since childhood I have been constantly working on some sort of skill with one goal in mind--to be the best. The attitude of working hard with relation to a talent was instilled by my parents and I have no question that Yoshie indoctrinated me with the need to be the best. Not good. Not great. Not "job well done". Best. It isn't necessarily a matter of being better than anyone else or beating them, but achieving total greatness for your capabilities.
Years have passed and that attitude will probably never leave me. Some days I'm grateful for it because I know that in certain areas, I have the capacity and the potential to achieve that "best".
But there are days, like today, when I worry that I've overstated my potential. Maybe I wasn't ever as capable as I thought I was. We're currently working on Paso in Latin and in asking my teacher about the shaping on a few positions, he smiled in a laughing sort of way and said, "Jen, it looks great," but the smile betrayed his answer. With a push he said that he finds it so interesting that I can never be pleased with the work that I do, that I'm always so preoccupied with being perfect that I miss the wonderful things that are developing.
I am in a perpetual state of frustration over my inability to be Karina Smirnoff, or Vladimir Ashkenazy, or Julie Kent, and to be them NOW.
When the end result does arrive and the piece is played with beautiful ease, or that figure is danced so smoothly with elasticity...that is when I am grateful for the indoctrination I received as a child.
For the time being, however, I am stuck, completely frustrated in my imperfection.
Years have passed and that attitude will probably never leave me. Some days I'm grateful for it because I know that in certain areas, I have the capacity and the potential to achieve that "best".
But there are days, like today, when I worry that I've overstated my potential. Maybe I wasn't ever as capable as I thought I was. We're currently working on Paso in Latin and in asking my teacher about the shaping on a few positions, he smiled in a laughing sort of way and said, "Jen, it looks great," but the smile betrayed his answer. With a push he said that he finds it so interesting that I can never be pleased with the work that I do, that I'm always so preoccupied with being perfect that I miss the wonderful things that are developing.
I am in a perpetual state of frustration over my inability to be Karina Smirnoff, or Vladimir Ashkenazy, or Julie Kent, and to be them NOW.
When the end result does arrive and the piece is played with beautiful ease, or that figure is danced so smoothly with elasticity...that is when I am grateful for the indoctrination I received as a child.
For the time being, however, I am stuck, completely frustrated in my imperfection.
Never thought I'd say it...
But chemistry actually makes sense.
I also find great irony in my Physical Science professor pronouncing 'nucleus' a la Dubya, aka "nuculus".
I also find great irony in my Physical Science professor pronouncing 'nucleus' a la Dubya, aka "nuculus".
Sunday, October 12, 2008
did you see the first snow?
I did. In fact, I even danced in it. In a skirt. And a T-Shirt. And fishnets. Total blast.
Then we went off to freeze a little more at the game.
This is Chase, and he is amazing.
We're pretty mature. Most intense game of Duck Duck Goose, ever.
Meet Brent Keck, ladies and gentlemen.
My latin partner....
Got a bit cold.
Then we went off to freeze a little more at the game.
He tries.
Also tries to take photos.
But eh, we have fun :D
she probably didn't win interview.
I don't think Sarah Palin is all that.
There.
I said it.
don't flame me.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
update perhaps?
It's not laziness, it's lack of time. And lack of original thought. Which could also be called laziness. And funny enough, the combination currently dooms my next critical analysis paper that is due tomorrow.
+Had a frightening experience today when EmDab called me, freaking out about a Josh Benson, 23, from Provo that had been killed in a motorcycle/scooter accident (the details are still a bit hazy) last evening. Luckily, our own dear Smurf is still alive.
+Played hooky from responsibility and normal life for the first time in a month and a half and it felt amazing. True, it was after 3 hours of sleep and dancing a Lindy accompanied by an obnoxious song for an hour at 6:30 a.m. in the beloved Wilk. However, donuts were our incentive. Curt and Marcie know all 200+ of us so well...
+Speaking of that Lindy, Saturday is going to be cold. Very, very cold. 3 miles of a parade route in 40 degree weather, cold.
+One day I will unlock the secret to converting ballet/jazz body positioning to ballroom body positioning (I'm not talking foot/leg action here...) and then I will make millions.
+Apparently a crowd of a few hundred and a microphone caused some sort of wit to appear. And I enjoyed it immensely. Congratulations, Meredith. If you would like to see a similar effect, complete with other lovely goodies, head on back to the Covey Arts Center on November 29. It's gonna be a party. Or if anything, you can watch me have fun.
+Had a frightening experience today when EmDab called me, freaking out about a Josh Benson, 23, from Provo that had been killed in a motorcycle/scooter accident (the details are still a bit hazy) last evening. Luckily, our own dear Smurf is still alive.
+Played hooky from responsibility and normal life for the first time in a month and a half and it felt amazing. True, it was after 3 hours of sleep and dancing a Lindy accompanied by an obnoxious song for an hour at 6:30 a.m. in the beloved Wilk. However, donuts were our incentive. Curt and Marcie know all 200+ of us so well...
+Speaking of that Lindy, Saturday is going to be cold. Very, very cold. 3 miles of a parade route in 40 degree weather, cold.
+One day I will unlock the secret to converting ballet/jazz body positioning to ballroom body positioning (I'm not talking foot/leg action here...) and then I will make millions.
+Apparently a crowd of a few hundred and a microphone caused some sort of wit to appear. And I enjoyed it immensely. Congratulations, Meredith. If you would like to see a similar effect, complete with other lovely goodies, head on back to the Covey Arts Center on November 29. It's gonna be a party. Or if anything, you can watch me have fun.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Thursday, October 2, 2008
so long.
It is a sad day, not only for the blogging world, but for my world, because my best friend Whitney is officially out of cell phone reach, as a missionary. Who am I going to watch movies or TV with? Who am I going to eat CPK's Frozen 4-Cheese Pizza with? Who else is going to slobber over James McAvoy with me (well, guess Nat could, but she abandoned me for New York long ago)? Sleepovers? Massive jars full of candy?
All of these things are going to disappear from my life, but I think the hardest thing is knowing that we're going to be existing in two completely different universes for the next 18 months.
Luckily it goes by fast.
I love you my dear Whitney!
All of these things are going to disappear from my life, but I think the hardest thing is knowing that we're going to be existing in two completely different universes for the next 18 months.
Luckily it goes by fast.
I love you my dear Whitney!
Saturday, September 27, 2008
stats.
perhaps I should maintain a vague and silent tone more often.
it appears that there are some of you that have been awfully interested in my little blog over the past few days.
for now I'm enjoying the glory of being 2 for 2 in my Humanities class. Our professor puts up what he believes are the best papers for the class to read on Blackboard as an example of what a strong analysis is. As I said, 2 for 2. And continuing to love this major that is the perfect fit.
how's that for not addressing anything and remaining vague?
it appears that there are some of you that have been awfully interested in my little blog over the past few days.
for now I'm enjoying the glory of being 2 for 2 in my Humanities class. Our professor puts up what he believes are the best papers for the class to read on Blackboard as an example of what a strong analysis is. As I said, 2 for 2. And continuing to love this major that is the perfect fit.
how's that for not addressing anything and remaining vague?
Friday, September 26, 2008
blasphemy?
It is my feeling that Nietzsche and his most popular phrase of "God is dead" from this fascinating work is grossly misinterpreted and misunderstood by almost all that criticize.
No, I'm not trying to be blasphemous, but I highly recommend finding a copy of The Gay Science (and no, stop asking me, I'm sick of explaining the title), but rather than stopping at the third sentence of part 3, throwing it aside, and exclaiming "Anti-Christ!" (as a member of our class said he did...side note: he alternated his reading with reading the Book of Mormon because he felt as though he was denying the Holy Ghost by reading about an existentialist philosopher's ideas...I love you BYU), go on a few more pages to actually see and understand what he was intending.
Religious individuals could learn a lot from this non-religious philosopher. Sometimes I feel that he understands the true importance of a glorified God more than many believers.
No, I'm not trying to be blasphemous, but I highly recommend finding a copy of The Gay Science (and no, stop asking me, I'm sick of explaining the title), but rather than stopping at the third sentence of part 3, throwing it aside, and exclaiming "Anti-Christ!" (as a member of our class said he did...side note: he alternated his reading with reading the Book of Mormon because he felt as though he was denying the Holy Ghost by reading about an existentialist philosopher's ideas...I love you BYU), go on a few more pages to actually see and understand what he was intending.
Religious individuals could learn a lot from this non-religious philosopher. Sometimes I feel that he understands the true importance of a glorified God more than many believers.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
college football is simply epic.
Get ready to follow me here.
+USC just lost to Oregon St. (freaking amazing).
+Oklahoma will lose to TCU this weekend (I believe).
+Utah will beat Oregon St.
+Utah will beat TCU.
+BYU will beat TCU.
+BYU will beat Utah.
There will be no question, my friends.
+USC just lost to Oregon St. (freaking amazing).
+Oklahoma will lose to TCU this weekend (I believe).
+Utah will beat Oregon St.
+Utah will beat TCU.
+BYU will beat TCU.
+BYU will beat Utah.
There will be no question, my friends.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
clarity: my way.
In the past, I've turned to the treadmill for my source of peace. The monotony of the heel-toe, heel-toe, heel-toe, heel-toe was comforting and left my mind free to ponder the problems plaguing my heart.
I'm back to the heel-toe, heel-toe, but it has some abrupt changes. Heel-toe, heel-toe, heel-toe, toe-toe, heel, toe-toe, toe-heel. Hip twist, lock, spiral, lock-lock-lock, drag, slip-pivot. Run-run, scissor step, run-run, scissor step. Open rolls. Natural rolls. Volta-volta-volta, plaits.
We have to grow with the changes that fall in our laps, but I can never let go of the need for a place of refuge and understanding.
I've found my clarity again.
clarity: refined.
I'm back to the heel-toe, heel-toe, but it has some abrupt changes. Heel-toe, heel-toe, heel-toe, toe-toe, heel, toe-toe, toe-heel. Hip twist, lock, spiral, lock-lock-lock, drag, slip-pivot. Run-run, scissor step, run-run, scissor step. Open rolls. Natural rolls. Volta-volta-volta, plaits.
We have to grow with the changes that fall in our laps, but I can never let go of the need for a place of refuge and understanding.
I've found my clarity again.
clarity: refined.
Friday, September 19, 2008
liberation.
people moving all the time inside a perfectly straight line. don't you wanna just curve away? it's such a perfect day.
now the sky could be blue, I don't mind. without you it's a waste of time.
now the sky could be blue, I don't mind. without you it's a waste of time.
physical science.
trying to write my character analysis on Measure for Measure's Isabella while also trying to wrap my brain around the special theory of relativity (IT MAKES NO SENSE WHATSOEVER WHY DO THEY GET SMALLER AHHHH ****(*&^(*^ YOU ALBERT) is a more difficult task than I anticipated.
The 7 hours of sleep I got last night?
Totally worth the confusion.
The 7 hours of sleep I got last night?
Totally worth the confusion.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
ridiculous.
Apparently I have 803 friends on facebook.
How does that happen?
I don't know 803 people!
Ideas on who I should delete? It's a difficult debate, because once you start deleting, you can't see their profile, and then you can't stalk them. Also, they might lead to someone else, aka a bff or significant other, the person you REALLY want to stalk, but will settle for seeing photos of them instead. Then there's the sticky situation of hurting somebody's feelings.
But really.
803 people?!
How does that happen?
I don't know 803 people!
Ideas on who I should delete? It's a difficult debate, because once you start deleting, you can't see their profile, and then you can't stalk them. Also, they might lead to someone else, aka a bff or significant other, the person you REALLY want to stalk, but will settle for seeing photos of them instead. Then there's the sticky situation of hurting somebody's feelings.
But really.
803 people?!
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
nightingale.
does it seem like I'm looking for an answer to a question I can't ask? all the voices that are spinning around me, trying to tell me what to say, so can I fly right behind you and you can take me away?
Sunday, September 14, 2008
truly epic.
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