List of the Year!

I'm updating, it seems like a small miracle in itself considering the whirlwind my life has turned into. So rather then trying to chronologically organize what has happened since my last post we are going to make a list of what has happened and what to expect. Subsequent posts will be prodominately pictures with some talk about the events, they may or may not be in order... in all honestly I'm just trying to clambor back of to the top of the hill of life!

WHAT HAS HAPPENED:

-I was able to spend some time with my grandmother before she passed away in mid-November, I am grateful for your thoughts and prayers, and even more thankful that the Lord has taken her to a better place.

-I spent Thanksgiving in San Deigo... I accomplished one of the items on my Life Long To-Do List... I saw the PANDAS at the San Diego Zoo!!!! I only took like 300 photos of their pudgy cuteness.

-I visited a mission in Calfornia, San Juan Capistrano, it was a breathtaking experience, something that I will blog about it once I take time to fully contemplate the experience.

-I was able to spend a whole week with Mr. Marine. It was a wonderful week... my cousin Annette says that long distance relationships are the best... "It really is a series of honeymoons and fairytale endings" And I totally agree with her.

-I was able to do one of my favorite things with Reagan, walk together... I miss it so much its nice to just hold hands and slowly stroll in the moonlight... or sit by a fire outside... even though its cold.

-I made it through my junior year of college. I will be a senior next semester! I recieved A's in both Chaucer and Shakespeare! And while not A's I recieved B+'s in my Phonology and Morphology grad level course and Japanese! I worked hard and it payed off!

-I said goodbye to all my lovely friends from Japan its always sad to see them go, but I look forward to seeing them this summer!

-I have stepped up as the President of the Japan Club... it is something I have wanted for quite sometime... I was happy to have our former President but yes I was a bit disappointed I didn't have a shot in the beginning, but now I will make the most of this opportunity...

-However in recent events I think a friendship was permently broken, but I'm not sure if it was truely a friendship or not.

-I saw BLACK SWAN with Gabs. It was INCREDIBLE!!!!! Everyone GO! See it NOW!!!

WHAT IS HAPPENING:

-I'm back at home spending some much needed time with my family. My mother is struggling over the loss of her own mother, but I am happy to be here, and to the best we can to make the holidays happy.

-I'm getting excited for Christmas

-I'm busting a move on some scholarship stuff, and getting my Japan Club and academic ducks in a row!

-I'm preparing for a trip to Boston to see Reagan... I can't wait! I get to meet his parents and see the big ol' city of Boston! I can hardly wait the remaining SEVEN days!!!

-I'm going after Christmas shopping with Anna a Japanese exchange student it will be tons of fun!

WHAT WILL BE HAPPENING:

-I will begin making plans to travel to Japan in the summer, as well as saving money for said trip.

-I will be applying to attend Midori Kai tea school in Kyoto Japan after my graduation

-I will be taking 16 credit hours next term

-I will reach my wieght goal of becoming something between a size 7 to a 9!!

-Mr. Marine, will no longer be a Marine... that's gonna be a big change for us both!

-I will be changing the name of my blog

As you can see, my life is full of change and its coming at rapidfire! And even though somethings haven't gone well, I'm going to take one of my favorite heroine's advice,

"I'll think about that tomorrow... after all tomorrow is another day"

Love and best wishes this holiday season... and I hope you all take a few hours to relax, take a deep breath and enjoy something truely beautiful in what little remains of this year.

UPDATE:

I know it seems like I have fallen off the edge of the Earth... and I kinda have. Its been horrible, hectic, and a whirlwind of laughter, saddness and hopes.

I will post copiously in two weeks to make up for this and get you all caught up on my life!!

Hang tight! I'll be back from the World's End soon!

Could you...

In the past couple of days I have had some devestating news about my grandmother. She went into the hospital on Monday, for some pain in her side. They found a tumor in her colon. Thankfully it wasn't blocking anything, but I just got a call from my mom saying that she has a bacteria that was caused by the tumor that they can't do much to treat. They also declared her unfit for surgery based on her other health problems and her age. She has currently been moved to a hospis where they are making her comfortable.

I am planning to be flying out in the coming days (Saturday) so that I can spend some time with her.

However I would also greatly appreiciate it if you would keep my grandmother in your thoughts and prayers. I'm not well stocked in faith but I would greatly appreicate it if you would help me let God know our family's desire for her to be comfortable and as happy as she can before she returns to Him.

This will be hard, and I am hoping I can count on you for some support along the way. I'm doing my best to be strong for me and my family but I may need a hand to hold to help me get there.

So. Change In Plans

Class seems like its nearly killing me! So much work but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, graduation is just over a year away! But I will be thankful for Thanksgiving break with Reagan and my family in San Diego!

I've been pretty negligent in my posting here my blogger but yesterday I had tea ceremony (at Tom's outdoor tea room it was a beautiful autmn day PERFECT for tea!! I wanted to cry it was so perfect!) and because of it I think I'm about to make a huge life decision.

As you all know, I've been wanting to teach in Japan for so long and I'm actually getting excited to teach as I work more with students, like those in the IEP here at CSU. I know it will be totally different in Japan but I really wanna do this.

That being said, yesterday's tea conversation turned to the Midori Kai Tea School and their scholarship for foreign tea students. There has been a little conversation about it with Mike-先生 and Christy-先生 has spoken of it, and I've always thought it was a neat opportunity, as I really am developing a passion for Japanese Tea Ceremony. However yesterday really has convinced me that its something I feel I should pursue further... like apply for it, further. Everyone in the tea group (at least those present) support the idea, including Mike who seemed really excited that I want to apply.

I would spend a year in Kyoto tuition, room, board, meals and living expenses covered (1,000 dollars a month), and everyday of that year I would spend every waking moment with tea. Mike said it would be difficult especially for the women as we live in a dormitory with pretty strict rules (like a curfew), and do a lot of cleaning but that wouldn't really bother me.

I would be in KYOTO of all places!!! This is a place in Japan that has really fascinated me, there is just so much tradition and a uniqueness that I can't place on anywhere else. I would get to experience so much and be in the company of some of the most talented people in our tea lineage. Also Sayumi lives there! I would get to see her like all the time, and I do miss her soo much.

Another thing aside from the aspect of studying a new found passion, once that year is up, I may take an apprenticeship with a sweet shop in Kyoto (if possible), since the sweets are one of my favorite things about tea. There is a tea teacher in Boston who when I go to visit Reagan I may have a chance to meet, and he is an expert in making sweets) So that would put me at least a year and a half from teaching in Japan which was my original plan. However I feel that I just can't pass this up and it seems like the perfect time for me to take on a challenge like this. I would be in Japan regardless, just instead of working I would be pursuing a passion.

I'm pretty sure my parents would say go for it because they always support me (and I love them for that) and I know I can count on Reagan to support me, he doesn't understand I don't think but he's happy when I'm happy and is always willing to understand and support me. So I guess I have to break the news. I've been thinking about it for awhile and now with only a year of school left I think now its time to start working towards it.

So much for having plans right?

Getting Dolled Up!

So as I'm sure you can tell life has been keeping me so busy that I can barely catch up let alone blog. But today as I have barracaded myself in my apartment for some studying and such I am taking a short break to post a little of what I've been up to.

A few weeks ago CSU's ASAP and CSU Swing Society hosted a concert with Big Bad Voodoo Daddy as the headliner! It was wonderful and while swing isn't my favorite it was a lot of fun dancing the night away. Gab's and I even ventured to dress up vintage for the event!

On the 23rd of this month I attended the Wild Goose Masqarude Ball with Gab's and some friends. This was much more to my taste as far as dancing goes... and I love polkas and fast waltz! But a note to self make sure you get the dress done well ahead of the day. Sewing on trim three hours before is no fun. And my hair was delightful!

Yesterday our tiny apartment was filled to the brim with Japanese exchange students and Japanese language students for a pumpkin carving/Halloween party! It was lots of fun and I will post pictures in another post early next week.

Tonight in North Carolina is Mr. Marine's last USMC Birthday Ball, this time next year he will be a college student and working towards becoming an officer in the Air Force. Its so odd thinking that soon he won't be a Marine anymore... well officially, am I ready to make this transition and such a big life step with him? I honestly can't say, I'm pretty scared for the future, but I really should focus on today, and maybe just tomorrow and let things come as they may.

Well that's really all I have time to chat about, its time to hit the books yet again! And I'm thinking of changing the name of this blog... any suggestions?

PS: It looks like I'm gaining weight... I need to get back into the gym.... sigh.

Chaji

Yesterday, like many of my Saturdays I woke up early and did some errands with Gabs, this weeks errands were these, lovely cream gloves for the traditional Ball on the 23rd of this month. The local vintage store had a lovely gold pair however they were just a tad too tight. These will go perfectly with my rich crimson dress (which I still have barely to start on)

And then the afternoon. I ventured to my Tea Ceremony teacher's house where there was a a couple of fantastic surprises, not only were Sara, Zelly, Tony, Roy and Mike there, the wonderful Christy先生 from the San Francisco tea group was there and we were all dressed to the nines in kimono. It was a wonderful experience to practice the most formal tea gathering a Chaji together. It was something I had never experienced before and while it was a dry run so all of our lovely meal was effortless and invisible I still found much to look forward too. My eyes were opened to lacquerware and how extensive the amount is needed for this event, and all new ettiquete even two different types of chopsticks.

It is always a magical experience learning under my teacher and then the added treat of Christy先生's overflowing knowledge practically astounds me. She has the perfect answer for almost any situation and there is always an exciting story to go with what we are doing. Not to mention how involved she is with tea, she's met people in the tea world that I can only hope to sneak a peek at. Doing tea with her makes me want set everything aside and apply for the Midori Kai Tea School, maybe I will save for a couple of years and then apply... it seems like such a wonderful way to put a solid foundation to my tea studies. I miss basking in the knowledge of others.

The practice while knowledgeable was exhausting as well. I have little bruises (battle wounds) from sitting seiza, but that is part of the territory and the aches afterwards are always worth it. Yesterday I also had a wonderful suprise, a member from our group Tom recently spent a few days in Kyoto, and Mike先生 presented me with a Kobukusa that Tom had selected (Tom couldn't be there yesterday) It was beautiful I actually teared up it was so suprising to be given such a lovely gift when I felt I did nothing to deserve it. It is overwhelming the amount of kindess and respect that people in tea have, I can only hope to gain some of that and bring it into my own life. I need to research the name of the gorgeous pattern 先生offered to tell me but it will be more meaningful to me I think if I look it up myself, my group has done so much for me already

What's Keeping Me Busy!

Once again fall semester is proving to be a whirlwind for me again.

So far I've been scrambling to stay afloat in all my classes, its the Japanese that's killing me. (I spend more time studying for this class which is in my minor then all my reading and homework for Chaucer, Shakespeare and Phonology combined) Beecken-sensei's expectations are so high and even when I do my best work I still feel a bit ashamed that its not going to be good enough.

And we have our inclass composition which is essentially a research paper in Japanese that we have to write in class. I'm scared.

Last weekend I went to the Nan Desu Kan (the Denver Anime Convention) It was really laid back I only had one cosplay (which was photographed ALOT) that Gabs and I stayed up on like three nights finishing but it looked great! Gabs is always such a lovely friend. A photo of the finished product... and a panda for good measure.

Our next sewing project is a Regency style gown for the Fall Ball! I'm excited for it to turn out! Think Charlotte Bingley of Pride and Prejudice. Very excited!!

Mr. Marine and I fought pretty badly about a week ago. It was horrible and I don't really want to eleaborate too much but it was a productive fight. We addressed some of the awkward elephants in our relationship. And now we are as happy as can be for the moment. Dealing with plans for the future is tough! His enlistment is up this Spring so we are working on what is to happen next together. Its a big step for him and I hope everything will work out alright!

This weekend has been rather easy, I read my Shakespeare aloud to Gabs while she baked an apple pie! And then we spent the evening watching Phantom of the Opera and Pearl Harbor which she had never seen before! We decided we need to watch Flags of Our Fathers and Letters from Iwo-Jima. Which are probably the most wonderful... in a way of war films I have ever seen!

Well its time for me to get ready for a tea ceremony event so its time to pull out my yukata and brush up on sitting seiza!

NEXT POST: My beloved Fernando... Repotted

Colorado Girls

I knew someone was bound to do this! GO COLORADO!!!

My Marine Comes to Colorado!

Okay so this maybe a little long winded, and its way overdue. IMAGE HEAVY!!!

So on August the 12th my Marine came for a visit! As always it was a glorious experience, but I really loved it more because he stayed at the house with my family! I think he found it a bit uncomfortable though. Oh how I love him for putting up with me! Anyway, I really enjoyed having a week where it was more like a traditional “courtship” instead of feeling like an old married couple (you know get up together and go to bed together sort of thing) which don’t get me wrong, I loved, but at the same time this new twist on our relationship I thought was a lot of fun and enjoyable, I don’t think he felt the same though, even though he kept assuring me he was having a good time.

So some of the things we did… because being outside in the Colorado Summer is the BEST!

Went to the zoo…

Took the COG Railway up to the top of PIKES PEAK, donuts at 14,000ft…. delicious!

Hiked in Garden of the Gods

Ventured to Denver for the planetarium and PURIKURA!

My family also hosted a BBQ so that some of my family-like friends could meet him which was a ton of fun, but afterwards Reagan and I passed out and took a nap for like two hours! Oops!

Also sorry there aren’t fun outfits and GAL, when he visits I think he likes it when I keep it to an minimum because it takes me awhile to get “beautiful” that and we were spending A LOT of time outside so GAL isn’t so much fun when hiking and getting dirty and such, at least I don’t think so.

After those few peaceful days he made the trek to Ft. Collins with me to help me move into my new apartment! We went to the drive in movie theater (Saw Despicable Me and Inception which was epic!) got moved in and just sort of puttered around and lazed about in bed all day.

This was the last few days of his trip…. And it always puts me in a strange mood. Instead of crying when he left I was able to smile and wave… because I cried the night before. I think it is getting easier for me to say goodbye because I know that we are strong and will see each other again soon…. Well that is unless he gets picked for this boarder patrol thing where he could be in the Middle East for 2 months to 2 years… that I think would be really unbearable….

But I don’t want to think about that right now. For now I’m looking forward to the family vacation in November that he is coming along on! San Diego look out! Papa and Mama Bear are coming to see the PANDAS!!!!!!!

Sooo Behind!

So I've been meaning to blog but with everything going on in my life I barely have time to take pictures let alone blog! However first I wanna thank Thanh Thao for her lovely giveaway last month! And look at what I won! Deco supplies YAY! I wrote a nice thank you note that is on its way to Germany! By the way I wish I had enough readers to do a giveaway it would be fun! But alas I don't have any cute things from Japan for a giveaway...

Classes have started up again and I moved into a new apartment! Here is my room! Not all the posters are on the walls yet but I will get there!

Also this year's cosplay for NDK is underway I am doing Rangiku Matsumoto from Bleach! Should be pretty simple apart from the hakama pants but we will see.

Next Post: About Mr. Marine's visit to Colorado!

Cosplay: Just a Thought....

So lately I've found myself browsing the cosplay sites again. (If you don't know what cosplay is the wiki page is an okay place to start http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosplay ) As if I don't have enough with developing my gyaru style

I mean I used to really enjoy it, as I looove to sew, but over the last few years I was discouraged by the many people who were abusing the hobby and not putting enough effort into creating a beautiful costume. Not to mention I've had several outfits ruined by inconsiderate anime and comic fans, and convention goers that it just made me loose heart.

I still have a dream to go to Comic Con (HUUUGE Convention in Cali) and maybe someday I will, but I thought I would just take a few minutes about my cosplay musings... should I get back into it? And if so anyone have suggestions of what I should do?

Riza Hawkeye (I've done her before and have had good reception as I've been told I look a lot like her... if you can look like a character... but also my personality apparently is a good match... and she is one of my all time faves!)

Princess Aurora: My fave Disney Princess!

Charlotte Le Bouf from the Princess and the Frog: I know that if my family had stayed in the South... yeah she's what I would have been. And of course it would be her ball gown as the costume.

The Twi'lik dancers from Star Wars... because the challenge of the outfits and head pieces as well as a chance to airbrush my body blue or green totally intrigues me! Oh and I definately need to keep hittin the gym for these!

And Reagan wants me to someday attempt these. (>o<); Good thing I know some friends who do armor and leather work! And my lady crush on Lucy Lawless... totally resurfaced... Damn!

Well enough of that... tell me what you think. Should I get back into it or should I say screw it!

Pages of Summer: The Stepford Wives

Sorry it has taken so long to have this posted, but here goes.

THE STEPFORD WIVES:
SUMMARY: Written in 1975 this novel follows a family that has recently moved into the seemingly perfect and quiet town of Stepford. Our heroine the shutterbug and reasonably active feminist initially seems quite at ease in her bigger than expected home, typical family and loving husband, but as the days turn into weeks and her new acquaintances slowly go from active and vocal modern women to perfectly shaped, girdle wearing and floor waxing housewives. Our heroine quickly becomes suspect of the whole town and the controlling Men’s Club in a satire that hardly has the victorious ending that we would like to expect from a text that appears so short and sweet.

POINTS OF INTEREST: There are two films based off of this short work. One from 1975 and the most recent in 2004, while I have seen both of these I can’t say that they were among the tops of my list. However the 1975 version certainly left you with that tingly feeling on your skin, you know the eerie on that sort of makes you shudder??

If you are looking for more Ira Levin give a good look to Rosemary’s Baby, it’s a little hair-raising but quite a delight for a read!

WHY MY HEART BEATS FOR THIS TEXT: For starters it was a short novel; I was amazed how much could be packed into so few pages. I took it along as my reading initially for the gym (as Fox News hardly sparks my interest) and found I had completed it the following afternoon. I must say that I haven’t spent much time in works published between 1950 and 1980 but I certainly would recommend this as a quick and thought provoking read that shows the contradictions that women were facing as they set one foot out the kitchen door and the other into that of the office.

WHAT'S UP NEXT: Peony in Love by Lisa See

APOLOGIES!: Quick Update!

Wow! The days are whipping by me at a rate that I can't even imagine! I'm so sorry for not updating but in the struggle to find a place to live in the coming days before school to a family trip to MO, I've got my hands more than full! So when I get back from MO, here's what to expect!

UPDATES:
I have two books for my "Pages of Summer" Blog series (Stepford Wives and Peony In Love)

Life Update: Who I've seen whose coming to see me, status of my new place of residence.

GAL: Probably and outfit post, and I maybe able to sneak in a tutorial but that's a BIIIG Maybe!!

I hope everyone's summer's are fantastic!

Pages of Summer: Jane Eyre

Hello everyone, if you are just joining the ride, this is the third installment in my blog series Pages of Summer, where I am tracking and commenting on the books I'm curling up with on a break from university!

So here we go!

THE BOOK: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

THE SUMMARY: This novel might best fall under a sort of Gothic rags to riches romance. We follow an orphaned Ms. Jane Eyre, through her trials and tribulations as a dependent, her harsh schooling and ultimately her career as a governess in 19th century England. However unlike the fairy tales, Prince Charming is the dark and brooding Mr. Rochester of an estate that has fallen to some extent by the wayside. Unfortunately what sounds like a perfect rise up from gloom love story, is quickly turned on its head when our rather plain yet witty Ms. Eyre begins to find things are not as they seem at Thornfield, and what you think is just a rumor turns out to be quite the ghost story. Have no fear however, despite its twists and dark ventures there is a happy ending… in a way.

THAT’S WHAT HE/SHE SAID:
"I had not intended to love him; the reader knows I had wrought hard to extirpate from my soul the germs of love there detected; and now, at the first renewed view of him, they spontaneously arrived, green and strong! He made me love him without looking at me." -Jane (Ch. 17)

"I sometimes have a queer feeling with regard to you--especially when you are near me, as now: it is as if I had a string somewhere under my left ribs, tightly and inextricably knotted to a similar string situated in the corresponding quarter of your little frame. And if that boisterous channel, and two hundred miles or so of land come broad between us, I am afraid that cord of communion will be snapt; and then I've a nervous notion I should take to bleeding inwardly." -Mr. Rochester, Chapter 23, pg. 221

POINTS OF INTEREST:
Recently in the line of the Jane Austen revival I saw this title on the bookshelf “Jane Slayre” Hmm it puts our lovely governess in the line of demons, ghosts and vampire hunting, I wonder how it works out, I think I will pick it up when I have a spare day, there is one scene in the original work that makes me curious as to where the inspiration for this mash up came from.

While I have yet to view any of the films or copious miniseries for this novel, my thought on first impression would be to certainly watch the 1996 film directed by Franco Zeffirelli (Tea with Mussolini etc.) The cast seems to fit my mind’s eye, well sorta, of the characters and I always have a bit of an issue when poor casting gets in the way of a story, but perhaps I have an over active imagination hmm? I have a mix of Alan Rickman and Matthew Macfayden, oh and a splash of Pre-Code Era Clark Gable *swoons* (sorry my inner movie buff is showing!) in my mind as Mr. Rochester!!! I think the 1996 version will definitely play up the romance and DOWN on the dark, its offered in a recent release, in a boxed set with the film Emma (with Gwyneth Paltrow….) If that has anything to do with your choice, it does affect mine…

So if you are looking for accuracy I would shoot for the BBC TV-miniseries version released in 2006. Have I mentioned how much I LOVE the BBC for doing this with classic novels? I will view both and let me know if you want my opinion! I hope they both please in their own way!

WHY MY HEART BEATS FOR THIS TEXT: I really gushed on Wuthering Heights, and unfortunately that gushing is still coming FULL force! My heavens I don’t even know where to start (perhaps that’s why it has taken me so long to get around to this blog post…. Sowwy). Initially I really couldn’t get over the similar dark and gloom filled as well as passionate writing styles of the Bronte sisters. But then I was like duh. They were quite close, but you can tell in the little details, Emily a little more vague in places and Charlotte, a tad more grotesque when it comes to making images of terror. Also if you don’t speak French you may want to brush up! I was rather excited that I only needed to read the conversations in French once and the meaning was all intact in my mind! Got to love old literature for assuming EVERYONE speaks French.

However it really is the story I can’t get enough of, no wonder it’s fallen into our canon of literature. I really relish in the struggle for romance, without all the silliness and smut of modern romance novels. Its sophisticated, well articulated, well paced and pulls all the right heart strings. I shed a few tears while reading it, and I haven’t cried over a book in a looooooooooooong time. I know I can read this over and over again and find news things, I was so excited to read it all the way through I mildly ignored my boyfriend, skipped two meals and didn’t lift my pencil once to write a note of analysis in the margins… and you all know how I love to annotate. (Well maybe you don’t but take one look at my books and you will, my favorite volumes are coming apart and have so much pencil and highlighter that they glow in the dark.

WHAT AM I READING NEXT (OR RATHER NOW): The Stepford Wives by Ira Levin

日本語のブログ

I decided I needed more practice for my Japanese, so I started a blog on a popular Japanese blog site Ameblo, to practice!

http://ameblo.jp/littledemonpixie/

Amazement of the Day!

This one woman wore one dress for a whole year to raise money for kids to go to school! She paired it with donated items to make 365 DIFFERENT outfits! DANG! She is definately giving support to the theory that if you have the basics and good accessories you can acheive nearly any awesome look! Check it out!!

http://www.theuniformproject.com/

Three a Day.... Yeah...

I know this is my third post today but I'm UPDATING!!!
HERE'S WHAT'S TO COME!!!!!

Tomorrow: Pages of Summer: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Sometime this week: Life in General Update

Sometime soon: A tutorial or two

Mini Meet-Up: Manitou Edition!

This past Friday evening I went out with some of the Colorado Springs Lolitas, but I didn't do Lolita I did GYARU this time! It was a lot of fun, my outfit wasn't really anything to fuss over but I loved my hair and make, as well as my new lenses! It was soo much fun, as always we had about twenty people ask us why we were dressed up, and about fifty just rudely staring. We are used to it by now! LOL

We had crepes at a new creperie down there! I had a savory crepe with ham eggs and tomatoes! YUM!! I haven't tried their sweet crepes but I think my mom and I will go, and have a girl's day out and do that! After the crepes it was the arcade for derby racing and skee-ball! WOO! We managed to get enough tickets to get matching little rings! Tons of fun!

So here are some pics! My GAL look is getting better every time! I'm really excited!

First Time: Geo Circle Lenses OL-103

So I ordered my first pair of circle lenses from Geo Eye Candy here on blogspot... and I'm pretty impressed! The effect is great. I ordered a non prescription pair of their OL-103 green lenses. They didn't quite match my eye color exactly but I loved the effect!! It was odd having the lenses in at first, even though I wear regular contacts all the time, and after several hours my eyes started to itch a bit but that might have been the pollen and my make too! LOL!

But the lenses! I ordered them on like a Thursday they were shipped on like Friday or Saturday and made it to me like on Monday or Tues (forgot which day) But still I was DAMN! That's fast! I also ordered a pair for Phen and her's look great too!

So pics! Sorry no comparison ones just yet... the difference in Iris size is sorta scary, but you all know what I look like without em!

Pages of Summer: Wuthering Heights

THE BOOK: Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte

THE SUMMARY (SparkNotes totally writes these better! But I’ll practice): Quite simply this novel traces the tragic downfall of one family that resides in the Wuthering Heights estate. But the romance between the wealthy somewhat spoiled Catherine and the adopted orphan christened Heathcliff. We follow them through a dark and gloomy childhood an even darker and manipulative adulthood filled with death, hauntings, madness and ultimately the decay of a family on the wild moors of England.

THAT’S WHAT HE/SHE SAID:

“"They DO live more in earnest, more in themselves, and less in surface, change, and frivolous external things. I could fancy a love for life here almost possible; and I was a fixed unbeliever in any love of a year's standing."

"'And I pray one prayer--I repeat it till my tongue stiffens--Catherine Earnshaw, may you not rest as long as I am living; you said I killed you--haunt me, then! The murdered DO haunt their murderers, I believe. I know that ghosts HAVE wandered on earth. Be with me always--take any form--drive me mad! Only DO not leave me in this abyss, where I cannot find you! Oh, God! It is unutterable! I CANNOT live without my life! I CANNOT live without my soul!'"

POINTS OF INTEREST:
When the novel was initially published, it was believed that her brother Branwell (a drunk and a believed opium addict) published the work.
Emily Bronte’s sister Charlotte edited Wuthering Heights after her sisters death, as the initial additions were riddled with errors, and in Charolette’s introduction she expresses concern in the reception of the novel, and that her sister was insane for writing it.
Recently there is a Wuthering Heights Twilight comparison edition. I haven’t touched it… I mean really?! I just don’t see how they compare… but that raging is for another day…
In the 1939 film the story was moved forward about 40 years and the costumes were those of the early Victorian era, even though many writers about the film say that film was set in the Georgian period (which was before the Regency period (in which it is originally set). Weird….
With that being said (my facts being doubled checked via TCM movie network) watch the 1939 film. While rather different from the book there are several scenes that every time I read the novel (as I’ve now read it four times) always cross my mind. And you get some time with Mr. Laurence Olivier… and that’s not so bad is it?

WHY MY HEART BEATS FOR THIS TEXT: For starters, its dark. Really dark. I mean when I originally picked it up for class I was like… meh it can’t be that bad… it’s only considered a Gothic novel, but really? My mind was a little fuzzy from the very first time I came in constant with this novel, in middle school (I barely read halfway through an abridged edition. Horrifying I know) But after having read it for my Literary Critisim course this year, and again for pleasure, I get a little giddy at the darkness. It really is amazing how Bronte writes in such a way that you can draw the gruesomeness out every word. One scene that really got me to that point was actually in the beginning of the novel, where our “outsider” narrator, Lockwood is visited by the ghost of Catherine Earnshaw. The image made my skin get all goose bumpy. The novel is definitely one of those that you cannot just look away from. It really makes you wonder how dysfunction can function. The relationship you develop with the characters, at least for me is an interesting one. I felt a roller coaster, of pity, disgust, happiness (rarely), anger and a torrid of other uneasy feelings while reading. However I never faced boredom. If you want a a bit of a mental struggle I would say read it, especially if you have a bit of a dark side, but if you have a light constitution be wary and probably only read it in the day time.

WHAT AM I READING NEXT (OR RATHER NOW): Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Pages of Summer: Pride and Prejudice

BLOG SERIES TWO: PAGES OF SUMMER! FIRST POST!!!

THE BOOK: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, and as a bonus… Pride Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith

THE SUMMARY (SparkNotes totally writes these better! But I’ll practice): Published in 1813 this is perhaps one of Jane Austen’s most famous novels. Set in Regency era England, we meet the Bennet family, namely one Elizabeth Bennet. The novel follows the plight of women at the time. Making a suitable match. We see the ups and down of the shy and yet endearing relationship of Ms. Jane Bennet and the wealthy Mr. Bingley. But the story that really draws this novel to the forefront is the roller coaster romance between Elizabeth and the brooding Mr. Darcy. Initially the only sparks that fly are witty and certainly make a zing when they hit their mark, but in following these two it seems impossible that those sparks should eventually warm the hearts of both parties.

All that excitement got your bustle in a bunch… well wait until Mr. Grahame-Smith throws zombies into the mix!

THAT’S WHAT HE/SHE SAID:
“I cannot fix on the hour, or the look, or the words, which laid the foundation. It is too long ago. I was in the middle before I knew that I had begun.” –Mr. Darcy to Elizabeth on the origin of his love.
“It is a truth universally acknowledged that a zombie in possession of brains must be in want of more brains.” –Opening narration of Pride Prejudice and Zombies

POINTS OF INTEREST:
Watch the adaptations: Namely the most recent. 2005’s blockbuster starring Kiera Knightly and the dashingly handsome Matthew Macfayden. Darcy’s confession, not totally accurate, but just beautiful cinematography throughout!!! Visually stunning!!! LOVE IT! And the 1995 British TV miniseries with the ever wonderful Colin Firth, and watch the miniseries if not only for the visual yummies but for that one scene, white shirt, pond… oh yes Mr. Darcy! *hits pause on the remote* The UK has also recently mothered a miniseries called Lost in Austen… pretty good, not great but enjoyable.
Follow the side trails: Much like my mention of adding Zombies to the mix try some other fun times on for size, numerous volumes of sequels have been printed with the renewed love of this classic. Or try a fun choose your own adventure, Lost in Austen by Emma Campbell Webster is a fun way to pass a wintery evening or two.

WHY MY HEART BEATS FOR THIS TEXT: Where do I even start! We can set aside the fact that I’m as HOPELESS of a romantic as they come, in my tastes of what to read. I have to say I love everything about this novel… okay not everything Mr. Collins can throw himself off the nearest cliff, but overall, major love for this work. I think I mostly speak to the visuals from this book, Austen is really particular in building a surrounding and I don’t exactly mean from describing the setting but her narration really draws you in and the character descriptions and commentary are splendid. I think like many great novels, it is the characters that keep you hooked. Pride and Prejudice is no exception, I’ve read the novel a few times now and each time I turn the pages with anticipation for the next words to come flying from the mouth of Elizabeth or the splendid telling of events. Austen really makes the glue from a linguistic point of view for the time, between her and the Bronte sisters I get giddy with the language. There is something about that rather prescriptive and “polite” English of the era that just makes me was to giggle with delight, but perhaps its just me!

One word. Zombies. Can I thank the muses for these wonderful undead creatures… or some nerdy kiddo in his basement? Either way some of my favorite things have risen from the dead (okay to some extent I’m kidding). You need to take this adaptation with rock salt. It isn’t quality literature even though Ms. Austen is infused almost seamlessly throughout. I was a little wary at first of Elizabeth and the other girls Bennet being armed with muskets and machetes, and distributing kick ass martial arts like calling cards, but taking it at face value for sheer suspension of disbelief it’s a blast! Complete with illustrations (everyone loves pictures). Pick this novel up for a good all be it mildly gory thrill. And people, there’s a film in the works for it! I smell some twisted awesomeness coming our way!!!

WHAT AM I READING NEXT (OR RATHER NOW): Here’s what to come, I think Wuthering Heights is up next. I finished it at essentially the beginning of the summer, but its another novel that’s too good NOT to share!

PS: Lemme know what you think of the book!!! Pride and Prejudice that is!

Pages of Summer: New Book Smell!

So because I have found a suprising amount of time on my hands this summer so far... (Don't get me wrong I'm still REALLY busy) I've decided to treat myself. To some good Old Fashioned novels. Classics to be exact.

So much like my shoe blog from WAAAAY back I've decided to start another blog series. I'm hoping to catch up on a lot of reading this summer, and I've been on a Classical or Canon Literature binge! As an English major I'm concerned that a lot of us aren't really keeping an appreication for literature and worlds of days gone by, so I really wanna sink my teeth into some fun and dusty volumes for a change!
Not all of the books will be "classics" so I guess its more just to trace my summer reading!

Each post will include the book, a quick summary, fun quote, what I thought of the book (what sets it apart, motifs etc.), and maybe a few interesting facts along the way!

SO be on the lookout for what I've read so far!
Pride and Prejudice.... (Will most likely post this tomorrow) This one will have a special treat!
Wuthering Heights: (Actually had to read it for a class but re-read it week before last)
Jane Eyre: (Finished this one last week! Can't wait to write about it!!)

Sound like a good way to spend the summer? I thought so! I hope some of you readers will maybe pick up a book that I read as well this summer! Stimulating conversation is always wanted with me! So be on the lookout for the new blog series, PAGES OF SUMMER!!!

PS: Got a book I should read, lemme know! I'll be going to the library every week If not more!

BBQ and Getting GAL'd UP!

So yesterday was Memorial Day, and my family had a BBQ with some friends of the family! It was a lot of fun I don't get to see those people very often anymore, and it gave me a chance to get dressed up! My Make still has a long way to go to looking GAL, but I tried a tutorial from an AGEHA and if I had false lashes on I think it would have turned out super!

So the results!

Let's Get Physical!

I spent two hours today in the gym!

And despite being tired, I feel great! I can sort of see the results of my hard work. The Marine certainly noticed, and I quote, "Damn your arms are so tiny!". I'm actually starting to get pumped about going to the gym. Afterwards I always feel so refreshed after a shower, I just wanna go outside... or clean something! I haven't weighed myself in awhile but my legs are getting thinner and those lovehandles are slowing going bye bye.

Today I tried a new ab workout with my sister. It's called NASCAR abs. Lol I know, but you do various exercises and instead of counting reps you just do your best in time intervals, I can totally feel the burn! And I ran a whole mile today without a stitch in my side! Sooo happy!

Now I just have to watch what I eat. Momma's making pork chops for dinner! YUM!

How is everyone doing? Do you have a fitness goal or milestone! Comment to me about it!!!

PS: Will have a blog about NC up soon... it just makes me sad to write it.

Paradise is Fleeting

I returned from Camp Lejeune, NC last night! What a trip! It was just the thing I needed! A week in a beachside cabana with the man I am madly in love with! Sadly I can't say that we really did a TON of things this week, I was just happy to spend time with him... and walking on the beach with him was probably the most relaxing I've been at liberty to have right now.

It was a rough night last night, but at least I didn't cry... just sniffled when we said goodbye at the airport... but then my flight was delayed just after he left.... such is my luck! However more about my trip later! With pictures! I was just so delighted to be with him... but plans to see him in August appear to be falling through, I just can't afford it... and yes its my own fault because I've been shopping... like a mad woman. But I did clean out my closet and now its down to things I will actually wear! I guess you could say I'm now a GAL and fashion addict. Which brings me to my next topic!

Things I want to buy!!!
** A New camera since mine went for a swim in the Atlantic!
** Circle Lenses from Geo Candy! One maybe two pairs.
** Bulk false lashes from Daiso Japan (They are super cheap I know, but they look good)
** A half wig from either Prisila or HOT HAIR. I really want one... but I may have to start dying my hair in order to have one... so maybe a full wig instead.
** A Can can hat.... but they don't look good on me. Poo berries!
** More clothes... but I will do my best to wait for Fall trends!!!!

Also the diet is back in full swing as of tomorrow. I have dropped a pants size. And I bought a SMALL in Express the other day I nearly cried!!! I'm hitting the gym with my sister, and I guess its not so much of a diet as I am just trying to eat less and as healthy as possible because I fatted hardcore in NC. And I really want to look awesome come this fall and then for Japan! So in order to amp up my GAL style I have to amp up my activity!

As far as Japan and school goes. I'm working on lesson plans for J-Cup for the second year students, I'm organizing a ledger and a big planner for the Japan Club use and for my personal use so I can stay on top of everything. I think I will buy one tomorrow at the store. For study abroad I will be starting the applications and such in the next couple of weeks. I should still be able to study and graduate a semester early but it will be tough! I also met my goal of saving $1000 for Japan! YAY! But just barely I will be pinching pennies until my summer job starts! But come fall I will keep working 20 hrs a week!

So that's all the babble for now, expect another post probably this weekend! Toodles love!

PS: I've started a list of things I need for the apartment next year with MagnificentDebra's Darling Daughter!!! SOOOO EXCITED!!!!

Finals Week!!!

I was planning a nice post soon, but alas Finals Week is here... and I haven't got the time right now! YIKES! So expect some fun in the NEAR future!!! I'm just super busy at the moment!

AND!!! NINE little days before I'm in North Carolina again!

PS: Is it odd that I thought the fact that my mother was upset that I was a tad more excited to see my boyfriend then to come home and work all summer??? And I was annoyed by that fact... meh...

Dog Years

Today I spent a sunny afternoon on the CSU campus with my dog of ten and a half years (That's seventy five in Doggy Years). Aside from enjoying the grass and the springtime sunshine, I had a few good laughs at the openmouthed stares as we strolled through campus.

My dog Jenny (VII Trails Guinevere if you call her by her breeder name)is about 150 lbs and comes up to midcalf. She's a big girl on the outside, but her heart is even bigger. The reason for our get together today was as sad one. Jenny is really really sick, she has cancer, and as a family, we decided that surgery while a possibility is just not the most loving option because the odds are against us. So for the next week or so, Jenny will be living out her last days with my family in the forests of Colorado, playing on the property with our other furry family (Ella and Walker), spending evenings chewing on a bone or snoozing at the foot of my father's big chair.

I was heartbroken to see her get into the back of the stationwagon today when it was time to head home, and when I was saying my goodbyes I got her full loving attention while I cried a little rubbing her ears (her favorite petting spot). We as a family have had sick dogs before, but Jenny is really the only one that I can fully remember growing up with. When I wanted to do dogshowing she was the one that trotted along beside me in the practice ring and held her poses like she was supposed to. We went on walks through the woods in the summer, and she kept my cold feet warm in the winter. We spent weekends in costume at the Renaissance Fair and many days in the grass or the snow just playing around. I will miss our grumble, growl, grumble wars, she always won of course.

It's been a blissful ten years, and I'm torn to see God's decision for her finally becoming visable. I just hope that where she goes after this will be just as happy for her as all the years my family and I have loved her.

I'm going to miss her so much, it is going to be very hard for me, because I won't be there when it's time for her to go, but I know this is for the best and I will always be greatful for the years I was allowed to spend with her.

You will be missed Jenny, and you are still my number one four pawed Princess!!!!!

Curveball...

So I sorta fought with the Marine on Sunday night (okay it was all me telling him somethings that are pretty bad that have been on my mind in the past few days) And I've been a total wreck. It's now Tuesday, I haven't slept in 48 hours, or spoken to him on the phone and I haven't been able to keep any food down. Yesterday afternoon I feel asleep in my Syntax class and felt horrible, I never do that.

I'm doing my best to still look and give the personna that I am at my best, but its failing miserably, if we don't talk soon I may be making a trip to the hospital if my stomach doesn't stop rejecting everything.

I hate fighting so much. I hate when I fight, I hate when others fight (parents etc) it does literally stress me to the point where I'm physically sick.

J-CUP And Back to The Daily Grind

Yesterday was the Statewide Japan Cup competition so I'm sure you all want the run down.
My team and I studied our butts off this semester. We walked into the prelims with our heads held high, studied and prepared, (well I didn't feel prepared but who does?) and we fell down, hard. We lost to the other teams with our lowly 40 points, it was embarrassing, and I could barely face Seta and Beecken-sensei's when we walked out of the room, let alone my senpai who trained me. Many of the questions were the grammar or the other teams just beat us to the bell. And my mom and sister even came to watch. I know everyone is proud but there is a little bit of me that feels like I let them all down. It was hard to fight back the tears and I'm even a bit weepy now just writing about it.

However I didn't have long to dwell on that, our other teams did really awesome, two of them made it two the finals so I couldn't stop smiling after that. I did my best and did my part and I feel that as a team it was good. I helped the finals teams study which paid off, since CSU took home 1st AND 2nd place!I

As for me now that I've thought about it, even though we did miserable, we showed up and tried our hardest and I LEARN SOOOOOO MUCH! I know all these things and I DON'T need a competition to tell me that I'm amazing, I realy accomplished a feat in these past few months and I can't wait to help future Japanese students do the same. Maybe teaching and learning really is my true passion. I get so excited just thinking of the idea of sharing the knowledge that I worked so hard to gain.

Anyway after the competition the real fun started! We had a HUGE celebratory dinner at Sonoda's. Everyone sat in the back room with three big tables and we just ate sushi and Japanese food and the table ordered FIVE of these gaint alcoholic punches, (which I drank half of one because they weren't carding... but felt a bit bad later because Beecken sensei is pretty strict about underage drinking, I need to be more careful in the future, but I think she let it slide because of J-Cup. Daniel, Sydney and I had a great time, they were hamming it up and I was laughing my ass off. Those two never ceases to fill my life with humor! What good friends! After paying the table's probabaly close to $1000 bill, we headed to DJ's Karaoke.... and it was super fun I got to sing some of my favorite songs, but at the same time I wish we had gotten two rooms because 26 people in one room was really hot and we didn't get to sing much. That and while all my classmates are great I'm sure, some of the people I would have rather not been singing with, I really love karoke but I like to do it with my good friends. It's just more personal and special that way..... I just feelng that it would have been better, cause the room is so hot that half of us were standing outside looking through the viewing window waiting for our song so it could have been more fun. Towards the end of the night I went out and talked to Arlet and Derek, and had part of a Black Stone and a bit of Soju, I actually wouldn't have minded just heading to a quiet club or lounge having a couple of smokes and just talking with my near and dears, by that point in the night.

Alas it was nearly midnight when we headed home, I ended up sleeping on Daniel's shoulder most of the way... which I feel bad for... and a couple other things regarding him, make me a little confused, but it's probably just the tiredness talking... I may address it at a later date.

So anyway all in all a SUPER EPIC Saturday, and to everyone, my teammates Phen and Syd, I love you both, and to my great teachers and friends,

本当にありがとうございます！！！！！！！！

PS: NOW ITS TIME TO FOCUS ON MY DIET!

Just a do & Coordinate!

So yesterday I had some time to get myself Galed up! Which with Gab's help the night before (by putting my hair in to wonderful pincurls! I could sleep while curling me hair! Finally!) I ended up with some very cute results yesterday and many people said so! ENJOY!

PS: Sorry no falsies though cause I was pressed for time and I had a long day that included the gym... not a good place for lashes. LOL

And my button heels(the ones I'm wearing) left big black marks on my white diamond tights!! NUUU!!! I'm soo sad! they were so cute! They are sorta ruined now...

Time Flys!

Well today is March 28th. One year ago today I started dating Reagan! I'm amazed at how time has flown! So much has happened in that time! And I feel that the next year or how ever long I get to spend with him will be just as wonderful!

Looking back I am thankful to him for always being there and supporting me he is toooo good to me! Or when he's pestering me to stay on top of things... like my school work or my diet... ugh.

I'm thankful for his patience, cause lets face it I can be a pretty big bitch sometimes, or a weepy over emotional train collision.

I'm thankful that he is slowly shaping me into a stronger person. He doesn't notice I'm sure, but I'm so happy that with him I can begin to repair my confidence and pick of the pieces of my self esteem.

The biggest challenge for us... I would have to say is the distance. They weren't kidding when they said absence makes the heart grow fonder... everytime I get to see him, makes me giddy hours before and when he's with me or I'm with him, NOTHING can rain on our parade! I'm thankful that the powers that be allowed us to be together four times in this time. I am selfish and wish with all my heart for more time with him (like every friggin day), but I know that I signed up for the distance, so I want to continue to be strong for both of us.

My favorite times: I think the best memories I have of us together is when we are walking. It seems to be a thing we like to do. On his first visit when we were at the 16th street and just strolled up and down in the chilly March night looking at the city lights... and him suddenly dancing when a bag pipe player appeared on the street. Or walking through CSU campus and "hunting for squirells", in downtown Myrtle Beach, or walking through the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. But walking is so wonderful I think because it gives us time to slow down and really just enjoy the other's company, all the while feeling the closeness that we don't get very often. I have to say I think that holding hands is actually pretty darn cool!!!

The thing I miss the most when we are apart: His hugs, whether its a big Papa Bear hug that lifts me off the ground, or the one armed "I'm a cool badass tough Marine hug" or when I've had a bad day or upset, the hug on the couch or wrapped in the blankets, that's not too tight but is still strong and protective, or the hug at the airport when its time to say goodbye again... yes I even miss that one.... Whenever he holds me I feel safe and that is the best feeling in the world.

Well enough mush from me I suppose just thought I would post a little bit of recollection for today since it is our anniversary. I hope we stay strong and can continue to grow together even if we are 1,873 miles apart for seven months of the year.

PS: To all my friends and USMC Gals out there, thank you for the support in someway you help make our relationship solid, or make it run smoothly because you make me worry less. LOL! Stay strong and Semper Fi!

Mitsu Thank You and a DO!

Well today I had a tiinny bit of time on my hands when it came to getting ready and I did my hair and I really love how it turned out! Its a bit of a messy look and I"m still gettin the layers under control, buuuut.

THANK YOU MITSU (even though you most likely don't read my blog I read yours!!!) And as such I tried her bang tutorials and on the first go around it work super well or at least I think so! What do you all think?!

So pictures! And then I have to study for Japan Cup!

Early Snowbird!

Well it snowed a ton here in FoCo last night and behold this morning Gab and I were coming back from Breakfast and we saw this! According to Gab it was legit cause it had butresses and everything! WOO! Go college! And we got to see it early when there weren't a ton of people! That's what we get for being up with the sun!