Showing posts with label My Singing Family. Show all posts
Showing posts with label My Singing Family. Show all posts

Thursday, December 7, 2017

The Christmas Tag


Natasha @ Simple Things tagged me for The Christmas Tag, which makes me so happy! Thanks, girly! <3 This being the last month of 2017,  I wanted to do lots of blogposts, but I've been having trouble coming up with things to post about. So of course I was tickled pink to see that I was tagged for this.

Christmas is coming up fast! Has anybody felt that Christmas feeling yet? I haven't. We've been listening to Christmas music, I've gone to the local Christmas Tree Lighting, I've gone Christmas shopping, but still I haven't felt it. Maybe because I've been sick with a cold and unable to eat  any of the Christmas goodies. *winks* But, I guess that's life. I am on the mend and will be able to eat/drink the yumminess soon *grins*

Anyway, I should probably get on with this tag! So here we goooooooooo...... *peter pan's voice*

1. What is your favorite Christmas movie? 
I've always loved "It's A Wonderful Life", and there's nothing like "Winnie-the-Pooh and Christmas Too". Not to mention all those other wonderful Christmas movies. But I'd have to say my favorite is "Holiday Inn". I've watched it two years in a row now. <3 But maybe I on;y love it because I always watch it with Cousin Kirsten. I don't know. *laughs*

2. Have you ever had a white Christmas? 
Yes, actually. It was shocking to the world, but we did have snow on Christmas Day one year - 2008 to be exact. That was a very strange winter, and we got over 4 feet of snow! Something that hasn't happened before, and hasn't happened since. Usually we get dusting's but that's all, and never on Christmas Day. Sometimes Christmas Eve, but it's gone by the next day.

3. Where do you usually spend your holiday?
Christmas Day, I am always at home. Plus we have Christmas Dinner on a different day with my mom's family at my Grandpa's house. And when I was a kid, we even had a celebration with my dad's side of the family, on a different day too. Sometimes that would be at our house, sometimes at my aunt and uncle's. I remember one year we drove four hours to my aunt and uncle's for the "Stenersen Christmas". I love those memories.
But on Christmas Day we are always at our own house, and it's just us. Except when my aunt lived with us... also one year my other aunt spent Christmas with us too. <3

4. What is your favorite Christmas song? 
No such thing. I love them all. How can you pick!? I love sooooo many!!
I've always loved "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem" by my Uncle Casey. "On this Day" by Reba McEntire. "Let it be Christmas" by Alan Jackson. "Pretty Paper" by Randy Travis. "Old Time Christmas" also by Randy Travis. "Santa Clause and Popcorn" by Merle Haggard. "Wonderful Christmas Time" by Paul McCartney. "Happy Christmas" by John Lennon. "The Secret of Giving" by Reba McEntire. "Merry Christmas Strait to You" by George Strait, of course *winks*. "There's a New Kid in Town" by Keith Whitley.  "Looking Christmas" by Clint Black. "The First Noel" by John Denver. annnnnndddddd I should probably stop. *laughs*
Oh Little Of Bethlehem by my Uncle Casey 

5. Do you open any Christmas gifts on Christmas Eve? 
Yes, sometimes. It depends on the year. And how excited my parents are.  *laughs*
Also, sometimes the "Warnke Christmas" is on Christmas Eve so we're not even home if that happens. *winks*
but opening one gift each on Christmas Eve was such fun as a kid! <3

6. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer?
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, and Vixen, Comet, and Cupid, and Donner, and Blitzen, and of course Rudolf. *winks* and yes, I did that all by memory.

7. What Holiday Tradition are you looking forward to most this year? 
Hm. Probably eating lots of yummy things while watching a Christmas movie all together.

8. Is your Christmas Tree real or fake? 
I must admit that we don't have our tree yet. Because we always get a real tree, all together as a family. Searching for the perfect tree on the farm. Another tradition that I am looking forward to. Especially since I've extra impatient this year and want that tree like yesterday. *winks*

9. What is your all-time favorite holiday food/sweet treat?
Food? the entire meal of course. *laughs* well, let's just say mashed potatoes and gravy.
Sweet treat would be Mocha Truffles for sure.

10. Be honest: Do you like giving gifts or receiving gifts better? 
oh boy. that's a hard one. I honestly don't know. I think I like giving gifts better, but that depends on who I'm buying for and how good my imagination is working. *laughs*

11. What is the best gift you've ever received? 
oh goodness. I've gotten so many wonderful things in my 18 years!
I'll go with my Polaroid camera. It's so fun and wonderful and adorable, and I love it so much.

12. What would be your dream place to visit for the holiday season? 
A cabin in the mountains would be amazing. (like The Ranch?) also I would love to go to NH for Christmas.
ALSO. Disneyland would be amazing! *laughs*

13. Are you a pro present-wrapper or do you fail miserably. 
Weeeeeellll. I don't do too bad. But Felicity,  Kirsten, and Amanda would definitely fall in the "pro" category. *winks* Why, Amanda gave me a gift and said I can't open it till Christmas. And I couldn't peek at that present if I wanted to, it's wrapped so well! *laughs*

14. Most memorable holiday moment? 
Oh boy, oh boy. This is a hard one.
I love remembering the mornings when I would get up super early, and sneak downstairs (this was when we lived on our other house) with Chancy, and we'd run as fast as we could past the stocking so we wouldn't be tempted to peek. Then we'd plug in the Christmas tree and sit by the light of it, playing checkers or some other game, while waiting for the rest of the family to get up. Once all us siblings were up, we'd open our stockings. (we had permission from a parents to do that without them,  because they wanted to sleep. haha) Those Christmas mornings, just me and the bro. <3

15. What made you realize the truth about Santa? 
Always knew the truth. Santa isn't even a thing in our house.

16. Do you make New Year's resolutions? Do you stick to them? 
This past year was the first time I did that, and I think I did pretty good. PRETTY GOOD. *winks*

17. What makes the holiday special for you? 
Well, simply everything about it.
The lights (I'm so obsessed with the lights <333). the music (oh Alan Jackson <3). the warmth. the feeling of being loved -- that's really the best feeling ever.
I love being with my family on Christmas Eve and Day.


I Tag: 

Marissa @ Hidden Treasures

Marita @ When I Hear Music

LaKaysha @ Calico and Lace

Liberty @ The Elegant Cowgirl 




Tuesday, September 19, 2017

Q&A answers || no vlog (go ahead and be sad - or happy, idc)


So. I tried to do a Q&A vlog, but I couldn't figure out how to upload it. And then I tried watching it again, and... yeah, why even try upload that!? *covers face*

So. Here's just a lame (lame because it's not a vlog - not saying your questions were lame *winks*) post with the answers to y'alls questions. #sorrynotsorry

Natasha H. -- 

~ What is your top three favorite colors?
mint, pink, and .... grey?? But I feel like grey isn't really a color. *winks* Maybe light purple.

~ Have you ever played the game called Spoons? (it's fun *winks*) 
YES!! And it IS fun! I used to play that game a lot at my great-aunt and uncle's. It could get really loud. *winks* One time we played with granola bars because we couldn't find spoons. And who ever got out got to eat one. *winks* I liked it best when we got the boys to play with us... and when we played at a round table. Because I'm a small person, and it's hard to reach the spoons if you're not at a round table. I haven't played in a long time. I don't like games, you can ask anyone. But I've always loved card games like Spoons. *winks*

~ What is your favorite kind of cookie? 
Chocolate Chip. They were the first thing I learned how to bake, because they're my favorite.

~ If you could have any animal as a pet, what would it be? 
This one is hard. I thought about it for a long time. Finally I decided I would have a horse.

~ If you could eat anything you wanted right now, what would you pick? 
*gasp* Strawberry Gelato from that random little place we found in Boston!!! *dies* Tyrel let me try his, and I wanted to steal it from him, but he wouldn't let me. *winks* 

Julia Ryan --

~ will you please sing a song?? THAT A LEGIT QUESTION HEHEHE
*laughs good and hard* *stops* No. My answer is N-O. *winks*

~ ever do bean boozled? 
Nope. And I don't think I'd ever want to. There was a time when I wanted to, but now... I'd rather not throw up, thanks.

~ black or white laundry baskets? 
um... we've always had white *shrugs*

~ cold water or warm water?
I feel like this question must be about laundry because it's next to the laundry basket question... cold.

~ favorite ice cream flavor?
COTTON CANDY. Or coffee. Or mocha. Or Candy Cane. Or White Chocolate Raspberry Yum (and the "yum" is part of it's name for a reason *winks*) Or Chocolate Chip Mint. Or Black Raspberry. Pumpkin Pie is even good. *nods* 

~ least favorite ice cream flavor?
Peanut Butter sounds wrong. I hate peanut butter period. But in ice cream??
I feel like that doesn't count because I actually haven't tried it.
So.... Cookie Dough might be my 'least' favorite but I still love it. *laughs*

~ led light bulbs or no? 
um.... i have no idea

~ ever make a friendship bracelet? 
no. But I have a couple that my cousin Kimberly made me a lonnnngggg time ago.

~ have you ever had use for a fire extinguisher? IF SO WHY
Never actually used one. But there was a time one it would have been nice to have one around.
That time at my grandpa's ranch and he was trying to fix a four-wheeler and it started on fire. In the barn. With it's saw dust floors. Next to the gas cans. And the flames were rolling across the ground and people were yelling "fire". Grandpa and the boys got it out and all was good. But can imagine how much less stressful that moment would have been if we had a fire extinguisher?

~ what is your favorite book? 
Oh definitely The Daybreakers by Louis L'Amour. No doubt about that. (that's actually the book I'm reading right now)  But I also love Spring's Gentle Promise by Janette Oke and Love Me Tender by Janice Hanna.
ok, that was three. *laughs*

~ have you ever knitted? 
oh yes. I knit. I crochet more than I knit, but I do do it. It's been a long time since I've done either one. I have no yarn, and I just haven't had a reason to. I kinda miss it. Maybe I'll start being creative again this winter. When I'm stuck in this cold house for weeks. *winks*

~ andy griffith or i love lucy?
please nobody hate me. I'm gonna have to say The Andy Griffith Show.
I do watch I Love Lucy sometimes but I've never really liked it. I felt bad for Lucy, I feel like all they ever do is make fun of her. So when asked to chose between the two (like now) I'd say Andy Griffith. Sorry Lucy fans. *winks* 

~ blogger or wordpress?
blogger always. *winks* 

~ when was the last time you played a prank?
oh boy. a lonnnnngggggg time ago. My aunt and uncle (Mikey and Missy) still lived here and they've been gone, what, five years? feels like longer.
Anyway. My parents were gone. Mikey and Missy were gone. And I feel like even Carson and Mindy (also aunt and uncle) were gone. I have no idea where they all went. But all us kids were home alone, so we prank called each other. Of course we kinda knew who was calling us, but we had some good laughs. *winks and sticks out tongue* 

~ when was the last time you sang?
oh shoot.... *thinking* .... yesterday??
well, besides just randomly bursting into song like normal. But I believe it was yesterday when I last song karaoke.

Emily S. --

~ What is your first memory of a computer? Phone? Smartphone? 
Thanks Emily! You picked an impossible question.
Computer? ...... well, my earliest memory of a computer would be of playing/watching other ppl play games at Grandpa and Grandma's. (before Grandma died) We played The Oregon Trail Game, Yolanda Yellsalot, The Lie, Zoo Tycoon, Jack and the Bean stock... and just a lot of games. *winks*
Phone? ... like, cell phone? Well, I do remember when my mom and dad didn't have cell phones, and then they did. But I don't remember them getting them. I do remember going to Grandpa's one time to get babysat while my mom went and got a new phone. It was a flip-phone but it flipped the other way, like a laptop sorta. It was "the newest/coolest thing". *laughs*
Smartphone? my first memory of anything like a smartphone would be my cousins ipod. It was basically a phone. It was such great fun. *winks and sticks out tongue*

~ What is your favorite family song? (one written or sung by family) 
oh boy. You're good and picking hard ones. *winks*
Well... O'Neil (great-uncle) sings "Red Wing" and I love that. (he didn't write that one)
my favorite song that he wrote would be "Father Have Mercy".
And Jane (great-aunt) wrote "Grassy Flats" and love that one. Also, Jennie (great-aunt) wrote some, and Roger (dad's cousin) wrote some really nice ones but I can't remember them, even Chet (great-uncle) wrote one that I really, really love but I can't remember what it's called!!
I love the song Jennie wrote for Grandpa after Grandma died. I just now decided that would be my favorite: "Hold Me Closer Lord"...
"I can feel His presence in this place. And angels wings softly caress my face. Your peace and love surround my heart and I'm at rest. For I'm held tightly, at my Savior's breast. Hold me closer Lord, I need you even now. Pour your grace, your spirit as I bow. Winds may blow and toss me around but then, You'll gather me into Your arms again!" 
I completely forgot about it till just now, so don't be surprised if I'm singing it all day long from now on. *winks*

Katie B. --

~ What's your favorite season?
fall. I am obsessed with fall. I love it. But I love summer too. I actually love all seasons, and by the end of each one I'm excited for the next. But fall is my favorite for sure. Summer second.

~ What's your favorite modern song? (written in the last couple years)
oh boy. So, I had to think of the most modern song I listen to, then looked it up. I don't know if I found the right date, but if I did, this song was written in 2014... which was three years ago. Does that even count?
I listen to old music, ok? I listen to modern music more than the rest of my family (and they tell me my music scares them).
But! He's what I came up with:
"You're Not Alone" by Owl City

~ If you could live anywhere in the United States, where would it be? 
Ok. I love where I live. Which is a good thing, right?
 Realistically, if was to move from here, I'd move to New Hampshire. I have family there. I have friends there. And there's a church there. (which is a huge thing for me)
But dreamy-ly, I love the look of Wyoming. When we drove across the country back in 2014, the only state we drove through that I liked was Wyoming. So rustic.

~ If you could visit anywhere in the United States, where would it be? 
well, NH is my first thought of course. *winks*
but the real answer to this question would be Alaska.

~ Favorite dessert?
another hard one. *winks*
I don't really like cake. Please don't freak out.
I love Pumpkin Pie, Black Bottom Cupcakes, and... *tries to remember what that other one was* OH! Strawberry Glaze Pie. That was three, but I'm a rebel. *winks and sticks out tongue* 

~ Favorite thing about fall? 
Lots of things are my "favorite" *winks*
The rain after a dry summer.
Sweaters and cozy socks.
Pumpkin things.
Hot coffee.
Even school (even though I'm graduated)
My birthday.
Thanksgiving.
Cold air.
Fluffy blankets on my bed to keep me warm at night.
the first fire (in the stove) of the season
Hot tea.
Leaves.
Rain. (even though I already said that)

~ Pens or pencils?
PENS TO THE END.

~ Favorite school subject?
Hmm.... it was probably History or Math.

~ How many states have you lived in?
*laughs to my side hurts*
one.
one state.
one county.
BUT. I have lived in four different towns, and seven different houses. Not that I'm proud of it. I would've rathered we stayed in one house forever. *winks* But, where we do our shopping and where we call "town" has always been the same.

~ Ice cream or frozen yogurt?
ice cream.
if the question was ice cream or gelato, the answer would be gelato, but that wasn't the question. *winks*

~ If you could meet any three people in history, who would you pick?
So, when I did the vlog, this is what I came up with, and I'll just go with them:
George Washington.
Walt Disney. (and don't tell me he doesn't count!)
And John Sager. I have no idea why, but he popped in my headm so why not?

~ Would you rather sky dive or scuba-dive?
scuba-dive. falling is like my worse fear.

Liberty S. -- 

~ cats or dogs? 
as if you don't know, dear sister.
cats.

~ lemonade or iced tea?
iced tea

~ what's your favorite baby name? 
Izzy. (girl)
Or Tildy. (also girl)

~ shorts or pants?
I like the look of pants better, but I wouldn't want to wear them if it's too hot.

~ what's your favorite holiday?
besides Christmas, because that's everybody's favorite holiday, right?
The Fourth of July

~ do you like sparkles? 
a little bit. *winks* I'm obsessed with bubbles, sparklers, and fireflies (even though I still haven't seen them) and I feel like those are "sparkles".

Kylie --

~ Mansion or little house?
because I live in a little house, I'd take the mansion. *winks*

~ deer or elk? 
for eating? it's been too long since I've had deer. And I've only had elk jerky. but still Elk.
for looking at? Elk.
for listening to? Elk.
for wanting to see in the wild? Elk.
so, Elk. *winks*

~ pink or blue?
everything I own is pink. My record player. My earbuds. My WALLS. My travel cup. My travel MUG. My phone even!
So I'd probably say blue just to add some color to my life. *winks*

~ what time era do you wish you lived in? 
the 1950s.

~ what's your favorite wedding dress? Please put picture!
one of these two. *hearts* 


~ Math or English? 
Math without a doubt!

~ Winter or Summer? 
Summer.

~ Flip-flops or sandals?
Hm... probably sandals.

~ Paint or draw? 
So. I don't paint, like AT ALL. But I do doodle??

~ What do you wish you had not done? 
I wish I hadn't made fun of Tyrel and Kirsten for listening to Casting Crowns and Tenth Avenue North. #sosorry 

~ apples or bananas?
apples. They remind me of fall. the smell of making cider. *sighs*

~ Dresses or pants? 
I'd actually rather wear dresses more, but I still love pants.

___________________


I DID IT!!!!!!! *confetti* 

so now it's your job to comment a whole bunch below!! *winks*




Saturday, July 1, 2017

Trip // That Last Week & A Half - Shopping + Chocolate + Bowling + Driving = Hanging out with Tyrel


After Kirsten and Emily left us to go home to their families, LaKaysha and I kind felt like.... "Now what?" We knew Felicity would be no help because... um... BOYFRIEND. Both Danita and Janeya work, so we didn't really think we'd see much of them. Kinda felt hopeless.

But Tyrel came to our rescue!

The day after they left, we just kinda sat around all day. Don't know where Felicity was or what she did or anything. She may have been home during the day... yeah, I think she was. I just remember me and LaKaysha were sitting on the couch looking at old pictures when Josiah came to pick her up. And Tyrel got dropped off from work and we both panicked because we hadn't started supper yet! So we jumped up and starting running around the kitchen. By the time he came in, supper was started and he never knew the panic we were in a few seconds before. *winks* 



That night it was just me, LaKaysha, Tyrel, Grandpa, and Grandma around the table - an odd thing after two weeks of a zillion people to cook for. *winks* 

That was the night that Tyrel drew the craziness out of me. I mean, I can be crazy - that is true. But I've always said I would never drive a stick-shift. Way too much work, way too confusing, and you ain't ever gonna get me to do it. So why could Tyrel get me to do it? Maybe because he's just as stubborn as me. On the way to Boston he said he was going to teach me, and I was like, "Haha, yeah, sure."

And then, that night he said he was going to.
Me - "He thinks he's going to." 
And then he walked into the living room with his hat on - "You ready?" 
Me and LaKaysha - *moan* 
But we got up and hopped in the car.

But first. Pop.

 Tyrel stopped at the store and bought us some 1893 Pepsi-Cola. *dies - it was so good* And soon we were at Christian Outreach. I was so afraid that I would kill us, or I'd ruin the car, or I'd cry, .... the worse possible things were going through my head on that short ride over to the church. But once I got in the drivers seat I calmed down. Never once wanted to cry, and Tyrel was a good teacher.


So. Guys. I can drive a stick. *flexes* 

Meaning - it is possible. But I am terrible. *face palm* Tyrel said I did good! *looks doubtful* How was backing up, you ask? *dies laughing* Let's hope that if I'm ever driving a stick-shift I'll never have to back up. *winks* 
But I did it. I never thought I would. I didn't kill us, I didn't ruin Grandpa's car, and I didn't cry. Laughed, actually. Especially during LaKaysha's lesson. *tries not to explode in laughter* 
It was a lot of fun. Driving around, sipping my pop (and trying not to spill while LaKaysha tried to shift *winks*) I was shaking when I got done driving, but I just do that when I'm being a wild child. *winks*

After our lesson we went to volleyball at Ji-Cal. That was fun. Just me and LaKaysha sitting against a wall and watching everyone play while scary bugs "tried to kill us" (more like one crawled by, but whatever ;P).

And so the last week and a half was spent cuddling the twins during the day (when Mary came over) and waiting around for Tyrel to get home so we could do something at night. Of course there were a few nights when he ditched us to play video games and we were left to entertain ourselves. One such night we watched Temple Grandin. But he actually didn't ditch us very much at all! I was shocked. Guess he didn't want us to be bored... unless he actually enjoyed being with us!? *laughs*


One night we went to the mall with Josiah and Felicity - Tyrel too. *winks* The entire trip, I had been craving a soft pretzel. We tried to get one in Boston, we tried to get one on the way home from Boston. But it took Felicity's boyfriend saying, "Do you want to go to the mall?" for me to finally get one. And it sure tasted good. *sighs*

That was a fun night. Riding around in the back of Josiah's pickup and playing Hangman with Tyrel and LaKaysha, stopping at Hobby Lobby and following Tyrel around, going to the mall and getting my pretzel, then following Tyrel around as he shopped, getting lost in the dark parking lot, and on the way home we stopped so Tyrel could get a milkshake - he bought me and LaKaysha some more pop. *hugs it*


Mostly the evenings were spent at home, sitting at the kitchen counter and chatting our heads off. Such fun. *sighs* playing with Tyrel's fidget spinner. I honestly don't even know what we talked about, or how we kept ourselves so entertained! But we stayed up late every night. (this entire trip I was never in bed before one - it was lovely)

shhhhh.... I didn't drink THAT much pop 
Tyrel, LaKaysha, Me - spending our time like we always do
Believe LaKaysha when she says we were The Three Musketeers during those last days 

Saturday came and we made plans to have our hair done by my aunt Brittany. Sometime in the afternoon. So we spent the morning doing... nothing. *winks* (at one point it was even just me and LaKaysha home with Grandpa outside mowing the lawn - that's how much "nothing" we did ;P)
Soon it was lunch time and Tyrel decided to take us out to pizza - once again, just us three. I had never spent one-on-one time with Tyrel before and having LaKaysha with us doesn't count, so basically that's what this week was. *winks* I really enjoyed getting to know him again. I realize now that I hadn't actaully talked to him since I was twelve! And even then we were just kids so...

The pizza was good and Tyrel paid. (once again *rolls eyes* - he said he went to the bank that morning and seen how much money he had so had to spend it on someone *laughs at his logic*) And we were home in time for us to get our hair done! I love what she did!!

By this time I had decided that I never wanted to go home. I just kept wondering how I was gonna leave all my people. When I told Mary that Tyrel took us out to lunch and she said, "Awww! He's gonna miss you girls!" I almost died right there.

*still in awe that I boarded the plane with no tears* 

Brittany also curled my hair, so it's hard to see the difference in this pic, but you can defiantly see
that it's shorter. Also look at at Callen!!!! *misses him* 
and Cormick sitting on Tyrel!! *cries I'm so lonely right now* 

I had never been bowling. And as you all know, Kirsten tried to take me once but we ended up at McDonald's for milkshakes. (which ended up being really fun, so who's complaining?) 
Kirsten wanted to take us while she was out there with us, but it never worked out. 
Saturday night it was decided that Tyrel was going to take us (mostly by Uncle Marlon, but I never heard Tyrel complain ;P). We were joined by Jeremy and we got a lane by some other cousins (two boys and one's girlfriend). 

We went Glow Bowling from 9-Midnight and goodness it was fun! 

But I'm so bad at it, like wow! *laughs so hard*

I knew Tyrel and LaKaysha were laughing their heads off behind me when it was my turn but I didn't care! I was having fun! 
It was loud, very loud. You'd have to learn close together till your heads were pretty much touching to hear when someone talked. After a while you got used to it and the music was just a background noise. 

And the ride home was even enjoyable. I've always enjoyed long rides in the dark. But when it's after midnight, you're in New Hampshire and you just got done bowling the night away with Tyrel, then you ride home in Jeremy's car between LaKaysha and Tyrel and basically fall asleep.... *sigh* 



That Sunday was a lazy day for me and LaKaysha. Tyrel ran off to Six Flags, Felicity ran off to the Cape with her boyfriend, and we were left alone.
Danita and Janeya came over with Shila and Chenelle, and then they left again to get ice cream. I would've gone with, but Grandpa and LaKaysha were taking naps so nobody was home to watch the twins if they woke up before Mary got back from where ever it was she went with Grandma.

So it was just me wandering the house all alone. I actually enjoyed that. I cleaned up the house, and then just sat on the couch. Cormick woke up so I took him and let Grandpa go back to sleep.

Just me and Cormick, sitting on the couch and listening to elk bugling. *sigh* The dear little kid held my hand and played with my bracelet and snuggled and I wanted to cry. Then Callen woke up and he came and sat on my lap too... and oh dear, I'm making myself so lonely.


Danita and Janeya came back. And Janeya - the sweetheart- brought me ice cream.

 Coffee Ice Cream from Kimball's!!!! 

Oh man, that place is good! Why don't we have ice cream shops like that out here?
Anyway, they left pretty much right away to go over to Danita's. They invited us to come along too, but LaKaysha still was kinda sleepy from her nap and still kinda had a headache from all that loud music the night before.

After they left, she got over her headache and we got bored, just sitting on the couch. Just the two of us. Then we remembered that Kaysha and Roger had just flown in! So we text Kaysha and asked where they were at. And we did one of the bravest things I've ever done - we crashed their family gathering. *laughs*

Grandma dropped us off and we sat in the living room. Where all the guys were playing and singing. It was so relaxing and wonderful. I had text my cousin Kaylee before, and told she could come visit us. She didn't answer until we weren't home anymore, but I just told her to come there and that's what she did.

And she brought us home. and Sunday was over.


Monday was Memorial Day. and it was wet. And rain out there is different than here, so yeah... I had an umbrella. *hides face* We went to the center of town but because of the rain there wasn't much of a parade or anything. Mostly we stood around in the cold wondering why we were doing this to ourselves. Finally we got the "go-ahead" to run home, and believe me - we ran. My legs felt really weird because I couldn't feel them they were so numb, yet they hurt every time my feet hit the ground.

Because of the rain, the usual traditions didn't happen and I still don't know what Memorial Day was like for my dad growing up. I guess I'll just have to go back out there (so sad, isn't it? ;P)
Family came over and we had some sort of "celebration" supper. After which Tyrel ran off to play board games at a friends house.

There was supposed to be a gathering at Outreach and I knew Tyrel was gonna be stopping there, I text him and asked if Janeya was there. If she wasn't, I wasn't gonna even bother finding a ride over there. She was and she and Danita came and picked me and LaKaysha up.

oh Cormick. I miss you! (and yeah, be sneaky and stare at Felicity and Josiah
in the background - I don't mind ;P)

So, we sat at Outreach and watched the volleyball game while sitting on the stairs. And we hung out in the kitchen some, and ate food. *winks*

 Food is good, so of course that was fun. 

chillin' with Janeya 

After Outreach we went to "a fire" that never happened. *winks* We were told that was where all the young kids would be, but nobody came. So after just sitting there for the longest time, we headed back to Grandma's. Janeya brought us, and Danita came too. Tyrel came home, and we began another evening of just sitting at the kitchen counter.

And like all the rest, it was great. <3 
the fuzzy, weird-looking selfie ;P 

The next day it was planned that Grandpa and Grandma were taking us out to Outback. After texting Tyrel and making sure he would be home in time, we decided to go for supper so he could join us. So we waited all day long for him to come home. Well, LaKaysha and I did anyway - can't say Felicity did. She was too busy enjoying herself at Josiah's work and trying to set us up with some of his friends. Thankfully it didn't work out. *wipes away sweat* I didn't like the feeling of being put up for auction. I also know LaKaysha hated the idea of even seeing any of Josiah's friends. *winks and laughs* 

Most of the day me and LaKaysha were home alone, actually. Can't even remember where Grandpa and Grandma went, but they were gone. So it was just me and LaKaysha walking around the house and wondering how long till Tyrel got home. Once Felicity got home, LaKaysha wanted Tyrel home even more. *still laughing* You would've seen her pacing the floors, wringing her hands and yelling, "Tyrel I need you!!!"

Finally he came home, and he did exactly what I told her he would do - he joined me and Felicity in laughing at her. Which made her mad, which made us laugh more, and it was great. Then it started raining and she calmed down because plans were changed. *winks*

By this time Josiah was there, and we were all pretty hungry so we took off for Outback. *smiles at the thought of Tyrel blabbing his head off on the way there about work and telling me every move he was gonna make for the next two days and that he was probably gonna have Friday off - the day we flew out* The food was good, and the company great, so that was a good time.


After a wonderful meal, we jumped back in Grandpa's car and there we sat - trying to decide what to do. 'Cause of course we couldn't just simply go home. How lame. We drove separate from Grandpa and Grandma so we could do something fun after. (and I think it goes without being said that Felicity rode with Josiah *winks*) Tyrel once again pulled out his handy-dandy phone we searched for things to do. Did we want coffee? Tea? See a movie? Go to the mall?

LaKaysha piped up from the back seat, "I want an Orange Julius." So Tyrel searched for a place to get one. But why not just stop at the store, buy the stuff, and go home and make our own? So that's what we did. The ride home was an adventure - because part of the time I wasn't riding. *still shocked at my bravery* I didn't even think about it at the time, but now I realize how brave I was - I haven't even driven much on the highway at home! In an automatic! And before Tyrel taught me how to drive a stick, I didn't dare drive with him in the passenger seat. But I did it. I was driving down a road I didn't know, in a stick, in a state 3,000 miles away from mine, with Tyrel in the passenger seat and talking to me... and I did think, "I can't believe I'm doing this."

But it was wonderful. 

I drove to the school across the street from Grandpa and Grandma's, and Tyrel hopped back in. We went to the store, and we got the stuff for our Orange Julius. Went home, and Tyrel made it for us. Grandpa and Grandma weren't home yet, so it was just us there. And Tyrel wanted us to watch Les Mis. so we skipped off to his room. And wow. That movie!!! For some reason, it didn't make me kill over like Love Me Tender but it was close.


By the time the movie was over Grandpa and Grandma had pretty much gone to bed, and Felicity and Josiah were back. It wasn't quite late enough for us to go to bed *winks* so we sat at the counter for a while. Then Tyrel ran off to go to bed - work in the morning - and me and LaKaysha did the same.

The next day we went shopping with Grandma and Aunt Mary - and the twins! What better way to spend your time than running around the store with little Callen? And when he got heavy, I'd take Cormick - he's much lighter. *winks*

Went to Panera Bread for lunch, and got my yummy tea again. Then it was home again. I text Tyrel and asked him if he would take me and LaKaysha shopping again after supper. He said he would, in the only way he says things, "Probably." (with him everything is "probably", "I guess", "I suppose". Can't ever say things for sure - it's just how he is ;P) LaKaysha wanted an Aeropostle sweatshirt like mine.


Tyrel came home from work, we ate supper, picked up Ryan, and headed out to the Outlet stores. Ever ride around with with two guys? It's such great fun. Especially when they don't know exactly where they're going. *laughs* Listening to them talk is great too. And sing. They like to sing. *winks*

Ryan- "Where's Felicity?" 
Tyrel- "Um. She has a boyfriend. It's kinda gross." 
Me and LaKaysha- *burst out laughing* 

And shopping with guys is great too. When you're at an Outlet Mall and you have no idea how to find the store you're looking for and you walk around in circles. Finally we looked at a map. *winks* Sometimes we act just like the small-town-kids we are. *laughs* And they both tried to help LaKaysha pick out her sweatshirt. It was so cute *winks* Sadly, she didn't buy either one they picked out. She would've bought the Tyrel picked, but the sleeves weren't lined in the inside, so it wasn't very cozy. She got one that "matches her purse-thing" (aka as wallet) *laughs at Tyrel*

The greatest part about this shopping trip was the thunderstorm. And the fact that we didn't bring an umbrella. We should win a medal for our brilliance. *nods* After LaKaysha got her sweatshirt, it started to rain. Just a sprinkle at first, then it started pouring. It was great! Running and jumping, trying to stay under the covered areas. Finally we ducked into the chocolate shop. Where we spent some time, trying to pick out 100 chocolates for Tyrel to buy. The sky looked beautiful when we were leaving! But sadly, I didn't get a single clear picture of it! It was pink from the sunset, yet with a rainbow! Can you imagine the beauty!?

photo credit to Tyrel - you can tell because I'm in the picture, and his camera is better than mine 

It was dark by the time we got home. But first we had to stop for snacks. *nods* Another 1893 Pepsi-Cola. And we ate way too many chocolates! *holds stomach* Tyrel made Ryan drive home from the store - in the dark and rain. Which is probably why he didn't make me or LaKaysha. He must think it's fun to sit back and watch someone try to drive a stick-shift or something.

Tyrel and Ryan didn't have to work the next day, so they were all ready to party. What do we call a party? Playing Trivial Pursuit till 1:30 or 2 in the morning. And I won. *flexes*

What was your favorite part of this long post? Did you even make it through it!? Would 100 chocolates make your day? Want Tyrel to make you an Orange Julius?? - 'cause he will if you ask him, or maybe he won't, you never know ;P Would you let your cousin trick you into driving a stick on the highway? Watched Les Mis? Want to go shopping with twins? Does my vacation even sound as amazing as I thought it was? Are you annoyed of these "trip" posts yet? 

Sorry, but there's still one more!*burst out into song - ONE DAY MORE!!!* also, are you annoyed that my schedule got messed up from these posts? don't worry, I will get the photo dump for June up at some point, plus I've been tagged for a couple tags and I will do those someday. *laughs at how behind I am* 

Monday, April 24, 2017

Photo Dump // April 2017



I know, this photo dump is a little early. But I'm probably gonna be busy over the next two weeks. Getting ready to go on my trip, and scheduling posts to go up while I'm gone. I'm gonna be gone for so long, and I wouldn't want to leave you all for that long. *winks* So I'm gonna schedule all my regular posts. Like my "Beautiful Words" post. So don't worry, that will still be coming out. *winks*


So. Time for the Photo Dump!
I don't know about you, but I've waited all month to do this. It's so fun! *laughs*


 here we have a relaxing night before bed. *grins*


 and a beautiful Spring day! The tree at church in full bloom.


 It's always fun to start a new Louis L'Amour *winks*



 and now we come to that wonderful week of being with my wonderful family. here, they are practicing for the funeral.


 I thought this picture turned out really cool. looking through the window into the music room.


 everyone just having a wonderful time.


 Roger, O'Neal, Eunie, and "Big" Darlene making beautiful music to fill our hearts.


 I liked it best when Jed joined them on the violin. ^_^








 Where there's love, there's room. Heading back to the church from the graveside service. *laughs* how many girls can you fit in one "bus"?


 DaNita, Kaaren, and Felicity enjoying the family time.


 and yes, I got snuggles with Kaaren too!


 After the funeral was all over, we headed to Grandpa's house to hang out. Jonathan hadn't been here in 9 1/2 years, so of course he wanted Rocky's Pizza! (yep, Marita has Lando's hat)


 Now Jonathan has the hat? *laughs* It was wonderful to see that uncle of mine! *wishes I was more bold and gave him a hug*




 Everyone's there at this house for the first time since Grandma died! Doesn't my mom have an adorable family?


 How many cameras does it take to take a family picture?

 why am I so attached to this house? this picture made LaKaysha and Marissa sad. They said it needs a poem to go with it. Too bad I can't write worth anything. *laughs*

Such cute little cousins! <3 



climbing the memory tree and remembering all those years we climbed that tree and it was our "house". I had carved in the tree somewhere but I couldn't find it.  


<3

here's my $50 sweatshirt that I got for $16. It's so cute! <3 

never realized how amazing honey is until we didn't have it for months!! 

I finished this book now and am on to the second one. Loved it! <333 

this was the day I got everything I needed for my trip *winks* 

Easter morning. I sure didn't feel like my Easter outfit was very nice, then after church Evelyn says to me, "Daminika, you're pretty." *heart is puddle on the floor* 

playing Marrying Mr. Darcy *grins* 

LaKaysha runs outside to take pictures of her gorgeous view *winks* 
I don't know how those little cousins of mine did this, or why I kept it, but it does look kind cool? 



my outfit last Sunday. 

after church and riding with "Bobby" <3 


Well, there you have my month. *winks*

Did you enjoy? Have a favorite picture?
How was your month of April?