2014, You Were Lovely.

I cannot believe that tomorrow is the last day of 2014. 

2014 has been the best, and most exciting year of my life so far. I've made so many memories. I've met so many new people. I've learned so much. And I've broken down so many walls I had been building up for years.

Instead of scrolling through a boatload of pictures, I decided to put together a little video of my year. Click below to see! :) And don't worry! If you'd like to read more, below is some little tid-bits and further details of my year. 

(I would reccommend enlarging the video, so you can see the pictures better, click the little box looking icon in the bottom right corner once you play the video!)

At the end of 2013, I had an overwhelming feeling of peace and comfort. I knew 2014 would be amazing. I was sitting on my couch in my footie pajamas, drinking sparkling juice and knowing in my heart that 2014 would be absolutely amazing. I looked through my journal earlier today and found my resolutions that I wrote on New Year's Eve last year. This is what I wrote:

• Get things done and don't procrastinate so much.
• Write down something that made you happy every day.
• Write/draw every day.
• Make someone smile every day.
• Be positive.
• Believe in yourself.
• Talk to people more.
• Be more active. 

The ones bolded are the things I accomplished. Six out of eight things I accomplished. That's huge. I am so amazed that I actually followed through.

Here are some of the things that happened/that I learned this year.

• I turned 18.
• I modeled in the prom fashion show and that's when my shell began to chip away.
• I got my ears pierced the same place my mom got her's pierced and I didn't even cry.
• My last tennis season of my high school career. ):
• I went to prom by myself, and even though I was upset at first, I had an amazing time. My shell was now just a transparent layer around me. I could finally see out, and see the world without feeling insecure about myself.
• I played my last tennis match of high school.
• One of my sweet friends brought me a cupcake on my last day of high school.
• My last high school lunch was pizza. Still wishing it coulda been chicken nuggets...
• I placed 1st in my last high school art fair.
• I had my graduation party and so many people showed up that I didn't expect would come and I was so happy.
• I got to walk with two of my childhood friends during graduation
• I GRADUATED HIGH SCHOOL HOLY MOLY. 
• My cousin Bobby graduated and I was so proud.
• Bobby, Baker, and I were together again for our traditional photo. (We've known each other since we were little kids, when we played baseball together.)
• I went to my great grandmother's house for a family reunion and we saw a snake while playing corn hole.
• I went to Michigan again and stayed in the most gorgeous hotel.
• I saw ONE DIRECTION IN CONCERT AND I'M STILL NOT OVER IT. IF YOU WATCH THE VIDEO YOU CAN SLIGHTLY HEAR ME TRYING TO SING A DUET WITH HARRY. I'm sure I was annoying everyone at that concert, but I needed my Mariah Carey moment.
• ONE DIRECTION YALL ONE DIRECTION. I've loved them for over three years now and I finally saw them this year. And I made a Harry tshirt and a girl yelled "HARRY'S HOT" at me on the streets of Nashville. 
• I moved into college and cried for two weeks. Not the happiest memory, but I needed that. 
• I attended my first college football game.
• I got my first A on a college paper.
• I participated in the "Gov Run" with my mom and sister.
• I finally visited The Hermitage after wanting to go for years. And I won an Andrew Jackson tshirt!
• I dressed as Wayne Campbell for Halloween. And it was awesome. I got told by a couple people that I seriously looked like Mike Myers. I'm not sure if that was a compliment or not.
• I finished my first semester of college with a 3.6 GPA. 
• My cousin, Jenni, brought a selfie stick to our Christmas gathering at my grandparent's and we took the most epic family photo.

And the one thing that sticks out the most about 2014 to me is this,

I came out of my shell and am no longer in that dark, insecure place I was. 

I remember being so scared to go makeup-free in public. I was worried what people thought of me. I cared more about what other people thought rather than what I thought. Those feelings fizzled away this year. I started seeing a confident girl in myself. I started seeing someone who was beautiful, someone who had a reason to be here, I started feeling more like myself in 2014. I still have my days, but I'm happy to say nearly all of them have been happy days.

I didn't mean to make this a long post, and I'm sorry it's going up so late. But I just wanted to say to you all, 

Be good to yourself. Love yourself. The good Lord is always watching and He's always there for you. Run to Him. Be kind to people. Love everyone. Bake a cake. Don't lose your inner child. Sing out loud. Cut a rug (figuratively or literally, make sure it's okay if you literally cut a rug though. Rugs can get expensive.) 

I hope you all have a very, very, very Happy New Year. And know that your little curly headed girl is here for you and is currently in bed waiting for That's So Raven to come on. 

Rachel xx

Oh! And here are some songs that I listen to every New Year's Eve. 

Auld Lang Syne - Frank Sinatra & Dean Martin (gets me so pumped)

What Are You Doing New Year's Eve? - Ella Fitzgerald (makes me want to slow dance)

Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Usually I'm a one exclamation point girl, but Christmas calls for multiple.

IT'S CHRISTMAS TIME Y'ALL CAN YOU BELIEVE IT. Tomorrow is Christmas Eve. I am so excited. 

I've been thinking for a while about what I should post for Christmas, and nothing came to mind. I don't even know what to write about Christmas. Well, actually I know a zillion things I could write, but it would be a never ending ramble and you'd probably get lost two paragraphs in. So, instead, I am just going to share with you a few of my favorite things about Christmas. 

Put on your Santa suit and pour yourself a cup of hot chocolate, we're talking CHRISTMAS.

Photos that I found that make me feel jolly. 

Here are One Direction. Looking very Christmasy for their SNL bumper photo. 

I couldn't really find a Christmas photo of Weird Al, so I chose this one of him in a Radio Shack commercial. There's snowflakes. Thus, festive. 

And to end this picture portion, here is a photo of Michael Jackson by a gingerbread house. I appreciate the work someone put into this. This is probably what my future house will look like, including the Michael picture.

That was fun. Now let's talk movies. 

My all-time favorite Christmas movie is Home Alone. Which is actually quite funny, I used to get upset when that movie came on. I couldn't stand it when I was younger. I had never watched it but still hated it. I finally watched it last year and fell in love with it. I love the music, the story line, the characters, everything is just amazing. It makes me feel so happy. Every time I hear the theme music come on, I do cartwheels in my head. (Because I can't do cartwheels in real life.) 

Another one of my favorites is The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause. I know some of you are thinking, "Omg why does she like the 3rd one? The first is the best." True. Very true. The first one always trumps the rest when it comes to movies. But I remember the 3rd one coming out and being excited for it and watching it a zillion times. That whole trilogy is amazing, but the 3rd one will always be my favorite. 

A Christmas Story is a classic. We always have it on Christmas Eve night and on Christmas morning while opening presents. It always gives me this overwhelming tingly feeling. It's like Christmas crawls inside me and shoots confetti canons out of my pores. That's the best way I can explain it to you. Even though that Santa scene where he pushes Ralphie down the slide freaks me out. If you haven't seen it, watch TBS on Christmas Eve, they do "24 hours of A Christmas Story" and it's amazing. 

This is the most quoted movie in our house around Christmas. I think my dad introduced me to this movie and I'm so glad he did. It is hilarious. I laugh just thinking about it. I honestly don't even know what to say about it. This is another movie whose theme music makes me excited. Just watch this movie if you get the chance. Even if it's not Christmas anymore, watch it. It's a bit more risque than the others on this list, but let's be honest, it stars Chevy Chase and is directed by John Hughes, you gotta expect some of that. The attic scene is my favorite. I could quote this to you all day long. Dad, you taught me everything I know about exterior illumination.

I don't think I even need an explanation for this movie. Elf. God bless Elf. 

Don't forget about TV Specials!

The SNL Christmas special/SNL Christmas skits are some of my favorites. I'm a huge fan of Saturday Night Live and watch the special every year. I just love when two of my favorite things combine and magic happens. "I leave out a glass of tap water, and rice. If Santa's anything like me, Christmas really wreaks havoc on the ol' digestive system." 

One of my favorite childhood memories is watching 25 Days of Christmas on ABC Family. I still watch it to this day and my favorite thing they show is the claymation Christmas specials. They bring back so many memories and I love watching them every year. I also love watching Charlie Brown and Frosty the Snowman. All of the older Christmas specials are a staple to me.

Although I love watching Christmas movies and specials, the events that go on throughout the month of December are what really make me feel that lovely love that Christmas brings. 

My church is very active during the holiday season. Something is going on every weekend and even during the week. I participate in multiple events during the month, including the Christmas Parade, Live Nativity, and the Christmas Eve Play. The parade is fun because you get to see all these people and children line up and everyone just seem so jovial. The Live Nativity is very humbling to be in. There are live animals and our church members adorned in costumes to show the community the sweet moment of Jesus' birth. The look on people's faces as they walk up is beautiful. They are so in awe and it's wonderful that we are able to spread that joy to people. My all-time favorite time of year is the Christmas Eve Service at church. I've been in it nearly every year since 2003 and it's always an exciting time. There is no place I'd rather be on Christmas Eve than in my little church, full of loving individuals. God's presence is especially heavy during this time at church, and it's just, so wondrously beautiful. It's impossible to put into words. 

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year. Remember to love everyone, smile a lot, eat even more, and remember the reason for the season. God bless you during this holiday season.

-Rachel xx

Things I've Learned (So Far) in My Freshmen Year of College.

Well, it happened. Today was my last day of classes. Goodness gracious. All I have left is a few exams and then I'm home for the holidays. :) 

I felt like I should write a little (well, not so little) post about the things I learned in my first semester of college. I hope it can either benefit you or just something to read to kill some time. 

A little disclaimer, these are just the things I've learned and noticed, this may not go for everyone. We're all at a different school, doing different activities, we both have different ways of living. This is just what your BFA in Studio Arts major learned her first semester of college.

1. Make time for Jesus.This was one thing I was worried about when entering college. When I was at home, I was so accustomed to reading my devotionals and my Bible everyday. College introduces many new temptations and other things that can take away from Jesus time. I didn't want to lose my faith while attending school, God gave me this opportunity for a reason and I want to let Him know I'm appreciative. I keep my Bible, my devotional book, a notebook, and a little pen beside my bed, so when I crawl in to sleep at night, I can grab it and read before I go to sleep. I also started praying before class started, during class, on the way to class. I tell myself to pray all the time. Especially when I'm worried, stressed, or just need a little light in my day. Talking to Him for five minutes is better than not talking to Him at all. I also surrounded my desk and wall with Bible verses and things, just for something to look at when I'm studying or as I'm about to fall asleep. I've found it really helpful as well to download a Bible App on my phone. The one I have now is called "Bible" (the little icon for it is a little brown book with a riboon with the words "Holy Bible" on the front). I really like it because it has "Verse of the Day" every single day, and you can look up any verse you want. It's really handy if you don't have your physical Bible around and just need a quick pick-me-up.

2. The "cool kids" aren't necessarily the "cool kids."There were multiple groups of people that I wanted to hangout with. They always were eating together, having bonfires together, calling each other, all of this stuff. I felt like I didn't have many friends, so I wanted to be a part of that group. Long story short, these people ended up being people I probably shouldn't be hanging around with, and I'm glad I didn't. I watched "Can't Buy Me Love" the other day, and even though that movie is a bit more exaggerated than my situation, it still shone the light on what really mattered. Surrounding yourself with people that make you feel wanted because they like you, not because they seem "cool to be around."

3. Surround yourself with positive people.I have met many a people in college that did not have a positive impact on me. Thankfully, I met some new friends that continuously make me laugh and feel good about myself. College is hard enough as it is, don't make it even worse with being around people who make you feel insignificant.

4. Hold doors open for people.This simple gesture can make someone's day. There have been plenty times where I have been stressed out and feeling awful then someone holds a door open for you. It's an instant "renewed faith in humanity" feeling. There are nice people out there, you just have to look. Also, hold the door open for people. I know how good it makes me feel to have someone hold a door open for me, and I am more than happy to give that feeling back to someone. It doesn't cost anything to be nice to people.

5. Buy those gummy bears to reward yourself.One of my favorite things to do is go in the food court and buy myself the little boxes of candy they sell. I always do this after a big test, after I've had a stressful day, or even on a Friday as a "good job! you got through another week!" Reward yourself. Do something that makes you happy. It doesn't have to be buying candy, it can be watching your favorite TV show or coloring in a coloring book. Just be good to yourself.

6. Always call your professor "Dr. or Professor" until they tell you otherwise.
It all comes down to being respectful. Most of my classes are art courses, and most of the art department is on a first name basis. It isn't uncommon to hear "Hey Billy!" in my class, because he said it was okay for us to call him by his first name. But until they say, "hey just call me by my first name," always say "professor or doctor." It shows that you respect them.

7. Not attending every single football game doesn't make you "unsocial."
I am a quiet person. I'm not the type who wants to go out every night and attend every event and be Miss Social Butterfly. Being those people are completely fine, but that isn't me. I've had more fun times just going to my friend's dorm and eating food rather than going to every social event possible. That doesn't make me "unsocial." I do what's best for myself and you do what's best for you.

8. Leggings are heaven-sent.
I was that girl in high school who was like "ew leggings gross why don't you just wear jeans." This is my formal apology. Leggings are like pajamas you can wear in public and still be socially acceptable. I have worn them more this semester than I ever have in my life. Darn you stretchy nylon or whatever you're made of.

9. Don't procrastinate.
It may be okay in high school to stay up the night before and write that paper, but it will not fly in college. You may be able to do it, but it just causes unneeded stress and heartbreak. Professors aren't as lenient as high school teachers. If it's late, it's late. You get marked down a letter grade or a certain number of points. College work, especially papers, involve so much more work and preparation than high school papers. Just do it before it's due. Trust me, I can't tell you how many projects I did the night before it was due in high school. (It was an embarrassing amount, it wasn't every project but a handful, and I regret it now. If any of my old teachers are reading this. I am so sorry.) GET STUFF DONE EARLY. It'll feel like a weight has been lifted, and you'll have time to go back and check your work to make sure it's up to par. Then go buy yourself some gummy bears, you rockstar.

10. Bring shower shoes.
Just read that over and over. I don't need to explain further.

11. Call/text other friends that are in college and see how they're doing.
It's comforting to know there are other people who are going through the same thing you are. Reach out to someone and have a conversation. There have been many times where I just needed to talk to someone who was in the same situation as me. It made me feel better that I wasn't the only one in a new setting. Talk to old friends, keep in touch.

12. Get the required items for class.
I can't tell you how many times that my Drawing professor has asked me, "is this gray charcoal?" when I was supposed to be using black. This goes especially for art students, pay attention to what you buy. Read labels. Know that gray charcoal isn't going to magically turn black over the semester. Thankfully my professor just laughed it off and it didn't count me off any points for it. But always make sure you have the required materials so class will go smoother.

13. Incorporate some type of healthy food into your diet.
It's hard to eat healthy in college. It's a lot easier to walk into the burger place and pick up a sandwich and walk out. I'm not saying this is a bad thing, it's pretty convenient when you have to study or have to run to a class. But try to make time to eat in the cafeteria, there are some healthy options in there, and eating a warm meal can brighten your spirits. Sitting down and taking a breather is good for you. But if you are running late, there are healthier options you can pick up and go. There are fruit cups, baked chips, yogurt, and other healthier options you can pick from. Eating healthier things make your mind and body feel good, and that's immensely important in college.  

14. When assignments are due, they are due. 
You know how in high school if you forgot your binder at home with your homework in it, your teacher would let it slide? Well, I hate to break it to ya but it's not that easy in college. Due dates are due dates. If your professor tells you something is due on a Monday at 8am, it's due on Monday at 8am. Just turn in your work on time. There have been a couple professors that accept late work, but you don't have a chance to get a full grade, or you have to have a extremely valid reason that you weren't able to turn it in. It's better to avoid having to deal with either of those things, so pull up your big boy pants and turn in your assignments. 

15. Attend class.
It seems simple enough, but there are going to be times when you rather sleep four more hours than wake up for class. Go. To. Class. I know it stinks, but you'll do much better in your classes if you just go to class. Take notes. Pay attention. If you're feeling sleepy, chew some gum or drink a Mountain Dew. Your professor will appreciate you being there and you'll most likely do better in the class. 

16. It's okay to laugh at yourself.
College is full of awkward and new experiences. I've tripped at least once a day and jumped at the sound of someone dropping a pencil. I am easily frightened, so I tend to jump and/or say "oooh!" in a high-pitched voice when I get scared. Laugh at yourself. I tripped so bad one day that I literally thought I was about to kill myself. I started laughing. I walked into the math building and my boots got stuck together and someone asked me if I was okay and stood with me until I sorted myself out. I laughed. Laughing through situations like this make them more bearable. Don't be afraid to laugh. 

These next ones are some more art-related things, so it won't apply to everyone unless you're an art major or take an art class. 

17. Don't take critiques personally. 
With art classes comes critiques, where everyone puts up their work and share comments about them. These comments are for your benefit, and are aimed at your artwork, not you as a person. I've seen a lot of people get really defensive when someone makes comments about their artwork, but you've got to remember that they are trying to improve your skills and make you a better artist. Listen to what they say and store it in your mind and think of it when you create a new piece. 

18. Attend art events.
Take advantage of your school's art events. There are galleries you can go to and lectures you can attend. Some teachers will give extra credit for attending these events, so take advantage! They're a lot of fun and will spark conversations. 

19. Don't ever fold your pieces. 
I honestly believe my professor had mini-heart attacks when he saw that one of our drawings was folded or ripped. He told us that doing so devalues the piece, and shows that you don't care for it. This is so, so, so true. I remember looking at some people's pieces and not taking it seriously because it was obvious that the piece wasn't taken care of. 

20. Listen to your professors.
This can go for all professors, but especially art professors. One of my advisers told us that we need to soak up as much of the information from our art professors as we can. They are all successful artists and the things they tell us are only to make us better artists. I never really thought of that, but it's really true. All of my professors create amazing pieces of art, and the fact that I'm learning from an actual artist is inspiring.

College has definitely been different, but in the best way possible. I am so thankful that I can be here doing something that I absolutely love. 

One semester down, seven to go. :p 

-Rachel xx