Christmas Movie Review: Day Five

White Christmas 

This is a 1954 classic musical that many people put on their Christmas watch list. To be perfectly honest, I have sat down maybe six times throughout the years, trying to watch it and never finished it all in one sitting. I think I can say I have watched the whole, thing, though. 
 So I reckon you can guess what kind of review this will be, but for the sake of it being a movie review, I have to be honest. 
 The movie was half-way based off of an earlier film, Holiday Inn, but mainly it got its idea from Irving Berlin's song. 

The story begins in WWII-torn Europe, when Private Phil Davis (Danny Kaye) saves Captain Bob Wallace (Bing Crobsy) during a bombing. Both men are entertainers back in the States.
 Bob later visits Phil at a field hospital and thanks the private for saving his life. When Bob offers a favor to repay the debt, Phil shows him a duet he wrote and asks to perform with Bob back in New York City. Feeling obligated by Phil's heroism, Bob agrees.
 The two go on from there, becoming big producers and rising in the entertainment business once the war is over. 
As a favor to an old army buddy, they agree to watch the friend's sisters perform. Of course, Bob instantly falls for the elder sister, Betty (Rosemary Clooney) and Phil has his eye on Judy(Vera Ellen). 
 The girls are their way to an inn at Pine Tree, Vermont, to perform for the holidays, and after the two men help them during a moment of crisis, they invite them to come along. When they arrive at the inn, Bob and Phil discover its ran by their old commanding officer. 
 The inn is in danger of falling to ruin, so the two ex-soldiers vow to help their old friend out. 

It sounds like a great story, right? I wish I could say I enjoyed this movie; that it's a wonderful classic, but I just wasn't a huge fan.

 Bing Crosby's character was sweet, of course. He's generally pleasant to watch, and Rosemary Clooney wasn't bad either. But I felt the story was lacking in so many ways. 

 And the dancing....Ugh. I mentioned in an earlier review that I enjoy dancing to a certain degree, but this is one those musicals that drags the numbers on and on and on. And the dancing wasn't just some fun, entertaining tap or swing. 

 The women dressed in rather skimpy clothing for a lot of the numbers, and some other their dance moves were, lets just say, unneeded.

 Now I'm not trying to paint a horrid picture in your mind. Its not so terrible that mature adults couldn't handle the dancing, but I just see no need for that kind of entertainment. 

 There were some scenes that were sweet and enjoyable, like when Bob and Betty sing 'Count Your Blessings' (Instead of Sheep)' or when Phil and Judy dance. I thought Judy's dress was very pretty in that number. 

 And the finale is sweet. 

There some funny parts, too, like when Bob and Phil do the 'Sisters' act to give the girls time to sneak away. Danny Kaye is a comedian, so he's always brings humor to the screen. 

 I always liked the song 'Sisters'. 

Now don't get me wrong! If you enjoy watching this movie, I won't think any less of you or anything. I just wasn't a hug fan of it. 

 So I'm afraid, after all things considered, I'm only giving this film three stars.

My Review: Three Stars ✩✩✩

  

And that's Day Five! I'll see ya'll next time with another Christmas film!

                                                                                      LaKaysha

Christmas Movie Review: Day Four

Felicity: An American Girl Adventure 

As a little girl, I grew up reading the American Girl books and had my very own Kirsten doll. I was a huge American Girl Doll fan, and loved pouring over the catalogs and books. One of my favorite girls, was Felicity Merriman, so when this movie came out in 2005, I was excited! And yes, I still watch it every now and then, even if I am nearly twenty-two years old. I say if its a good movie, you'll love it forever. <3 

Ten-year-old Felicity Merriman (Shailene Woodley) is growing up in Williamsburg, Virginia, just before the American Revolution. High-spirited and independent, Felicity is a bit of a handful for her mother, although the young girl does try. She eventually tames a wild horse owned by a vicious old man, Jiggy Nye, and causes a bit of trouble in the process. 

Meanwhile, tension grows between the colonists. Some, including Felicity’s father (John Schnieder) and his apprentice, Ben (Kevin Zegers), wish for independence from the king of England. Others, like Felicity’s grandfather (David Gardner) and her best friend, Elizabeth (Katie Henney) remain loyal to the king.

This a fun, heart-warming movie that a lot of girls would enjoy watching. I like how they kept Felicity's independent spirit toned down just enough. If this were a newer film, it would have feminism on every corner and on every woman's lips. Thankfully, I did not feel that they were trying to endorse feminism or shove politics into my face. They were simply telling a story. 

 And who doesn't love a historical film? From the first moment I watched it, I was fascinated by the costumes and manners that the people wore, and all the little daily things they did. 

 I mean, look at those dresses! *happy squeals* I would give anything to have been an extra on set, and able to wear one of those gorgeous gowns. 

Young Shailene Woodley did very well as the high-spirited Felicity, although even as a little girl it was obvious to me that the actress was not ten years old. We will allow it, though. 

 Her acting wasn't excellent, like some younger stars, but she did hold her own throughout the film. In the scene where she tearfully prays, however, she did so well that I will still tear up at the desperation in her voice as she beds God to keep her mother safe. 

 We will also keep in mind that movie was intended for a younger audience, so if Shailene's portrayal seems a little lacking, that would be why. 

I absolutely loved Ben's character when I first read the books, so I was excited to see how well they would do in the movie. To give Kevin Zegers credit, my disappointment had nothing to do with his acting. He was very good, in fact. I was a little annoyed that they cast someone so much older than Felicity. I realize that in the books Ben is fifteen, compared to Felicity's ten. But couldn't they have cast an actual teen? The actor was twenty-one years old, and its kinda obvious! 

 When I read the books, I imagined that Ben would marry Felicity after she'd grown up. But in the movie that was very difficult to picture, and he seemed more like an older brother. 

John Schnieder, however, did a wonderful job! I loved him as Felicity's gentle but firm and unwavering father. He's wise and humble, but does not back away from his beliefs, even when his own father-in-law disagrees. And I mean, its John Schnieder. His acting is always on point. 

Other characters include Marcia Gay Harden as Felicity's mother, who also did marvelous as the quiet and tender-hearted woman. Grandfather, played by David Gardner, seemed rather stern to me, but loving in his own way. 

 I could have done without the whole stealing a horse thing, but that did happen in the books. And while I am not saying Mr. Nye wasn't in the wrong, it wasn't exactly right of Felicity to take matters into her own hands, either. But, I suppose, in her own way, she was only trying to stand up for her beliefs the same way her father and Ben did. 

 I mean, being a traitor to the Crown isn't exactly legal, either. Yet our Founding Fathers did defy the King, and thank the Lord they did, or who knows where we'd be. 

Because this a period film, quite a few of the women wear daringly low necklines. Mr, Nye is a known drunk, but it never actually shows him ever drinking, and although he is a rather vicious, angry man, he doesn't come across as dangerous to any man. Only his horse. 

All in all, it is a sweet movie that the whole family can enjoy! Because of some of the things I've pointed out (mainly Ben's casting) I will only be giving this one four stars. 

My Review: Four Stars ✩✩✩✩

But that doesn't mean it isn't worth a watch! Go see it for yourself <3 

                                                                                              LaKaysha

Christmas Movie Review: Day Three

Made Each Other (1939) 

Technically this movie isn't about Christmas, but it has a New Year's scene, and its on the internet as one of the movies to watch in December, so I'm not the only one. *Winks*

When a young man and woman begin a very hasty marriage after a short meeting, it's questionable to their friends and family whether this union will last.
 John Mason or 'Johnny' (Jimmy Stewart) is a young lawyer trying hard to climb up the ladder, and it seems rather impulsive for him to marry Jane, (Carole Lombard) a woman he's known for one day.
 As money gets tighter, and a new baby arrives, the young couple struggle to keep body and soul together, as well as keep Johnny's mother (who is living with them) satisfied and happy.

This is another tear-jerking, heart-warming film that makes you believe in love <33

Seeing the two people so in love and trying so hard makes you want to root for them and hope that they can succeed in life, no matter how difficult it is. 

 It shows the tough side of marriage, as well as the beautiful, making this more than a romantic comedy. Its a beautiful love story about two very average people living a very average life, and trying to keep a very average marriage. 

 Jimmy Stewart is probably my favorite actor of all time (its really a toss-up between him and Gary Cooper) and he portrayed the struggling, frustrated husband as only Stewart could; with his boy-next-door sweetness and all-American attitude that earned him the nickname "The World's Best Friend". 

 Your heart breaks for poor Johnny, watching him work so hard, only to be knocked down again and again, but during it all you somehow still believe that the young man will succeed. Someday. 

Carole Lombard played the character of Jane wonderfully. <3 I grew up watching her in the Shirley Temple film 'Now and Forever' and always thought she was a beautifully strong woman. 

 Jane's determination to stand by her husband's side, no matter what, makes her a role model other girls would do well to respect, and she tries her best to remain cheerful and encouraging for Johnny, which can be hard with a nagging mother-in-law. 

 She isn't perfect, of course, which only makes us love her all the more. Carole gave Jane's character such strength, and I enjoyed seeing her superb acting skills. 

 When tragedy strikes, poor Jane finally does crumble, and its up to Johnny to keep these from falling apart completely. 

 I would tell you more, but shhhhhhhh. Spoilers. 

There are many other supporting characters to the story, like Mrs. Mason (Johnny's mother), his boss and other co-workers. I loved seeing Louise Beavers (also from Holiday Inn) character, Lily. She seems to be such a kind, lovable person, and always ready to help the Masons out, despite the fact that they can no longer pay her. She is the kind of woman anyone who want for their aunt or grandma. <3 

There is a scene where a very distraught Johnny comes home drunk, and I loved how patient and kind Jane remains, knowing how much he's hurting. He admits that he loves very much her and needs her, and the scene ends happily. It doesn't show him drinking. There is also some drinking at the New Years party. 

A few kisses. Maybe a low neckline. That's it! 

I adore this story, either as a Christmas movie or as romance, and at the risk of sounding like a broken record, I'm giving this one five stars also! 

My review: Five Stars ✩✩✩✩✩

I hope you sit down to watch this wonderful old film! Until tomorrow then, 

                                                                                                LaKaysha

Christmas Movie Review: Day Two

I'll Be Seeing You (1944)

This film is another golden classic. <333

 When two strangers aboard a train, Mary Marshall and Sgt. Zachary Morgan, end up sitting across from each other, there is an instant connection between the two. But both people have their secrets. Mary is a convict, given eight days furlough to spend the holidays with her aunt and uncle, and Zach, who is a victim of shell shock, has been allowed a ten-day leave to try and adjust to normal life. Both are spending Christmas in Pinehill before Mary must return to prison and Zach to the hospital. The two exchange numbers before parting ways, and eventually begin to see each other.  

 Once they spend more time together, it's obvious Mary and Zach are falling for each other, but neither has the courage to admit their troubles...And time is running out.  

 It's a beautiful romantic drama featuring The beautiful Ginger Rogers, handsome Joseph Cotton and the delightful Shirley Temple, all grown up. 

I loved this movie.
 It was sweet, warm, with some humor and sadness that leaves you with a satisfied feeling after watching it.
 You just want to cry for both Mary and Zach's pain, smile at their obvious feelings for each other, and sigh when it all finally comes together in a beautiful ending. And it features one of my favorite songs from the era. (same title as the movie)

Ginger Rogers does a marvelous job as Mary, the main character who was sent to prison for accidental manslaughter. I personally think she's one of the prettiest actresses of the 40s, and she has the sweetest smile.
 Mary's character is strong, kind and thoughtful, even with her sentence, and it leaves you wondering why they made her go to prison in the first place. After all, she was only defending herself.
 And, yes, I'm going to say it again: her style *sighs*
Her outfits are positively adorable, and her hair is pretty and feminine. I just love watching these old classics and studying the way they used to dress in the good old days.

Joseph Cotton also beautifully portrayed the poor broken Zach. Watching his pain made my heart break, and I just wanted gather him up for a big old hug.
 His shyness and quiet tenderness with Mary is enough to melt any girl, and the way he tries so hard to overcome his problem makes you respect him even more.

Shirley Temple's character Barbara (Mary's cousin) was typical of the roles she played during her teen years. Bouncy, fun and light, bringing some comic relief to screen. But Barbara has a tender heart that shows throughout the film, and it makes you wish Shirley had more dramatic roles as a young woman.

Mary's aunt and uncle were the sweetest couple as well. Kind and forgiving, and always there for Mary. I can't say many parents would let their daughter share a room with a convict, even if Mary didn't meant to kill the man.
Aunt Sarah is portrayed by the same woman (Spring Byington) who later played Daisy Cooper in Laramie (which I have been watching lately) and I always enjoy seeing her kind-hearted air and sweet attitude.

There is some drinking in the New Year's scene. A few kisses. In one scene Mary tells Barbara about how and why she had to kill a man. He tried to accost her, but it doesn't go into too much details and shows her accidentally shove him through an open window while fighting him off. But the scene is very brief and shows very little.

Also has a scene of Zach having an 'episode' due to his shell shock, which I guess could be frightening to young children. I probably wouldn't have been, but all kids are different.

I thought it was sweet movie, the kind that young girls would do well to watch these days instead of those cheesy Hallmark films or Chick-Flicks. The ending always makes me cry, without fail. <333
 But don't take my word for it! Watch it yourself. 

My Review: Five stars ✩✩✩✩✩

And that's day two down! I hope you all enjoyed! 

                                                                                         LaKaysha

Christmas Movie Review: Day One

Every day, from now until Christmas, I will be doing a Christmas movie review for ya'll to enjoy! Maybe you'll even want to give some of these films a try this Christmas season to put you into the holiday mood!

Holiday Inn 

Let's start with one of my favorites, shall we?
 Holiday Inn is a 1942 musical starring Bing Crosby, Fred Astaire and Marjorie Reynolds and features songs written by the great Irving Berlin. <3

Plot: 

 Crosby's character, Jim Hardy, leaves the show-biz life for a farm in Connecticut after being jilted by her girlfriend, Lila (Virginia Dale), who says she has fallen for his friend, Ted Hanover (Fred Astaire). 
 Jim isn't completely happy with farm life, however, and returns a year later with a plan to turn his farm into a 'Holiday Inn', only open on the special holidays for guests to celebrate together. 
 Ted and his agent are amused by his scheme and the agent sends a random young woman named Linda (Marjorie Reynolds) to audition for a place in his act. 
 Jim, however, likes Linda and agrees for her to stay on at the Inn, and that day (being Christmas Day) he sings his new song 'White Christmas' for her. The song has become dear to people across the globe, and we have Irving Berlin to thank for that! <3
 Problems arise when Ted arrives, sad and broken because Lila ran out on him (this woman likes leaving poor young men at the alter!) to marry a millionaire. Because he's a bit *ahem* tipsy, Ted dances with Linda but can't remember it the next day. 
 Ted's agent demands that he finds the girl because of her exceptional dancing skills, and Jim, worried that his friend will once again snatch his love away, does his best to make sure they never find her.

Where do I begin? <3
I've loved this movie from the first time I watched it. It's an old-time film with charm and humor that can only from 1940's America, and its's good clean entertainment to get you in the Christmas mood.
 Bing Crosby's character is sweet, humble and lovable; the complete opposite of Fred Astaire's character. Ted Hanover is a regular weasel in my opinion and find myself wishing someone would give that man a good swift kick just once. But his dancing is pretty on point, I must say, so we will forgive him for existing. After all, the story wouldn't be complete without his character ruffling everyone's feathers. *winks*
 Also, it's Bing Crosby. We can't not love his quiet humor and beautiful crooning.

Marjorie Reynolds character was perfect for Croby's love interest. She's sweet, cheerful and kind without being too forward or pushy, and I have to say her hair was beautiful. Every time I watch this movie I just gawk at her elegant outfits and the ladylike way she holds herself. I confess sometimes I find myself wishing I could be a little more like her. 

 Her singing is quite lovely, too. <3 

The songs in this movie vary from fun and lighthearted to sweet and tender, making this a very enjoyable musical with just enough dancing to keep it fun without overdoing it. I love dancing, but some musicals like to stretch the numbers on for far too long. 

There is, of course, a scene where Ted is quite drunk. But it doesn't show him drinking, and that is the only time any of the characters appear to consume alcohol. So if you are concerned about your kids being exposed to anything like that, there is that one scene. But it is made to more humorous than anything else. 

I think there are some dancing girls wearing short skirts in a scene, but their dancing isn't inappropriate or anything like that and they aren't on screen very long.

Lila is also rather fickle and annoying, as she drops one man after another. But I'd say she and Ted deserve each other. *SPOILER*.......................... Lila returns, having left her millionaire, as well. (before the wedding, of course)

All in all, it's a fun, sweet movie filled with warmth and entertainment that I will watch again and again. Jim and Linda are the cutest couple, too, may I add. <333 

 There's nothing like a black and white classic to start off the season! 

My Review: Five Stars ☆☆☆☆☆

 And I hope you all enjoyed this post and give this wonderful classic a try!

                                         LaKaysha 

All About Autumn//Tag

Hello, darlings! 

 Yes, yes, I've been absent again. I could apologize but I won't. 

Anyways, let's get to the point. 

 My sister tagged me, so I figured the least I could do was participate, right? 

 - What are your plans for this fall?

uuuummmmm.... Eat good food. Try to stay sane. Buy a car. The usual things, right?

- Which two things tell you that the Autumn season has begun?

The cold mornings, and the smell of rain *happy sigh*

- What are three things you love about the season?

The rain. Ah, lying in bed listening to the sound of raindrops on the roof. 

The cold. If anyone knows me, they know I can't stand heat. Ugh. The cool, crisp mornings of fall just warm my heart more than a hot, humid day ever could. 

The fashion! Throw on a sweater and some boots and I'm happy 

- What is the best way to enjoy the rain of Fall?

Snuggled up in a blanket, sipping hot cider and reading a good book (probably a Louis L'Amour) with slow jazz playing on the record player. Oh, and the fire crackling in the stove. *sigh*

- What is your best memory from fall?

Well, let's see. Aside from the Fall Party we've had since I was a very little girl, my favorite memory would probably be Thanksgiving. 

 Gathering together at my Grandpa's house, the smell of turkey and gravy filling the warm kitchen, while a million little kids ran free and played hard. I was one of those little kids, and have to admit, I miss it. <3

- What is your favorite scent from Autumn?

Cinnamon. Cloves. Apple cider. All the spices...mmmm

- What is your favorite Autumn color?

Well, every post I've read, people said Burnt Orange, and I had to admit, I am unsure what that is. lol 

 The color I like is a rusty brownish color, but maybe that IS burnt orange? 

- What is your favorite fall inspired drink?

Spiced Apple Cider <333

- What is your favorite food from Autumn?

That's a toughie. Probably fresh apple pie, made from home canned apples 

- Which place would you love to visit in the fall?

New Hampshire, of course. They have abundant colors during fall, and all those cute little local farms selling pumpkins and apples, and corn mazes... Besides having family there, the Autumn season is the only season where they have pretty (and bearable) weather. Sorry, New England. Humidity is NOT for me. 

And there you are, ya'll. Sorry I'm not very chatty today. It takes me a bit to get back into my blogging 'groove'. Please be patient with me!

Life Is Beautiful// O Death Where Is Thy Sting?

It's been a hard time for me, personally. My grandpa (Stenersen) had a stroke and has been struggling physically and mentally, and I have been having a hard time coping with death. 

 When you watch loved ones through the years leave this world behind, it leaves a scar on your heart, and I secretly struggle with separation issues. 

 It's been really rough lately, and sometimes I'd look at my mom, or my dad, at any of my siblings, and fear would overwhelm me when I realized that one day, they're going to die. 

 The thought of being left alone on this Earth without them terrified me. 

 What will I do when my mom leaves me? My dad? 

How will I live without them? 

 My grandma passed away, and that left a hole no one can fill. I couldn't imagine going on without my parents. 

I went to church yesterday, it being Sunday and heard a beautiful sermon, of which I can remember very little, I am ashamed to say. 

 I just know that I felt rebuked, comforted and reminded all at the same time, and my heart was warmed by God's word. 

 But during that sermon, for reasons I cannot recall, grief for my Grandma came flooding through me, so strongly I felt the need to weep. 

 I honestly can't say what triggered it; I only know that I sat there in the church pew wishing I could see her once more. 

 I kept telling myself she had to die, she was meant to go, and not question God's ways, but something in me suddenly cried "But I had her for such a little time." 

 I realized that I was mourning more than her...I was mourning the chance to really, truly remember her. I was only nine when she passed away; some memories are so foggy. Longing would well up in me whenever my mom spoke about something her mom had said. I wanted to know her. And it wasn't fair that I never really had the chance.

 Tears welled up in my eyes, but I forced them down and tried to focus on the sermon. 

 After a while the feeling went away and I was able to go on through day without giving it a second thought. 

 Then last night I had a dream. 

I can't remember it all; it's a little hazy. But I know that my Grandma was there, smiling at me. There were gold pillars all around, and greenery, and we were sitting by a quiet little stream. She took my hand and placed something in my palm; I wish I could remember what it was. A gold chain?

 Then she touched my cheek and said something like: "I had to go. You don't need me anymore." 

 Normally everything in me would protest, and scream "No, I need you. My mom needs you!"

 But I didn't. Tears rolled down my cheeks as she held my hand, and for the first in my life I believed her words. We didn't need her anymore.

 Then I was standing on a porch that looked out into nothing but a cloudy sky, crying with my mom and telling her about my dream. 

 Suddenly the clouds started rolling back in wispy balls, the most beautiful singing I'd ever heard roared through the skies, and someone said in quiet awe, "Jesus is coming." 

 My quiet timid self seemed to vanish as unspeakable joy welled up from my heart, and I threw my hands into the air, crying, "Jesus is coming!" 

 I gazed at the sky in joyful anticipation, but there was nothing there but vast, unmeasurable sky.

 I turned around then, and saw a large group of people, all members of my large family, smiling and singing. I remember my aunt Mary was there, giggling and clapping her hands, and my Grandpa Stenersen was standing there, not singing, but smiling. 

 Then I awoke. 

What did it all mean? I kept asking myself throughout the day, pondering the puzzling dream, until I came to the conclusion. 

Grandma had to go, I know that now, although I guess I will never truly understand why. Not in this life. But it was okay.

 "I've let go the need to know why. I'll take what answers You supply. You know better than I."

 And He was giving me a small glimpse of the glory waiting for us all on the Other Side. The joy I had then was like nothing is ever had before, nor will ever have until that great day.

 And we were all together. 

Death doesn't separate us; we will all be together when we cross that Great Divide, surrounded by God's everlasting love. And that's all that matters. 

It seemed as if God was gathering me in His arms and reminding me that His love is stronger than death. 

And it's gonna be okay. 

So I guess I felt the need to share this small revelation. Death isn't something to be feared.

God's got us in His mighty hand, and He is never going to let us go. And our loved ones are going to be just fine. He's got them, too.

Rest with that tonight.

Some more Random Facts About Me

It's been so long, I have decided maybe it's time for us to get 'reacquainted'. So here are a few random facts about me! 

 1. I have social anxiety

If you're with me in public, you won't always know that I'm having anxiety. I try to fight it, and keep it hidden, but sometimes when the crowd is too large, or the atmosphere too noisy, I start to feel "closed in" or panicky. 

2. I have an unique vocabulary 
If you've ever heard me speak, you'd know what I mean. I use strange phrases and words a lot of people (especially from this side of the nation) don't normally use.
 "Shoot the duck's hind end with a silver bullet." is something I use in place of "oh man" or "Oh no."
I learned it from my mom's side of the family, although everyone had their own variation of it. "Shoot the duck's hind end with a rubber bullet" or simply "Shoot the duck's hind rear." *cough*
 If I'm really feeling it, like, let's say I stub my toe. Out springs from my lips:
"Shoot the duck's hind end with a silver bullet, then fry it in a skillet..." and it goes on from there through clenched teeth.
Other phrases:
"For Pete's sake, Orville." (other folks in my family say this one. My Great-Grandpa's name was Orville)
"Well, slap me up and knock me down and let me lie." (this one isn't as common, but I do say it)
I can't think of any more, but I'm sure my siblings or friends could come up with some.
 I also call people "sugar", "sweetie", or "honey" and the ever-common "children"; a trait I also learned my mother's side.
It can be rather embarrassing when you're out in public with your friends and you let it slip without meaning to.
Daminika: "Should I buy this?"
Me: "You do whatever your little heart desires, honey."
Girls start bickering, and I say, "Calm down, children."
Woman next to is gives me an odd look. Oops.

Also, while we're on the subject, I have a really weird, unique voice. I can't really explain it. Kinda soft, and nasally, and squeaky? Ugh. Anyways, take my word for it. It's different. 

3. I am obsessed with leather bound books

Gold-sprayed edges, heavy duty covers, and pretty designs.
Need I say anymore?

4. I love to sing

I don't do it very often in front of people, but I love to sing. Hymns, country, folk, jazz... it doesn't matter. Music helps me cope, helps me think, and honestly, helps me breathe.


5. I love to go shooting and driving four wheelers
I don't do it very often, but I think it's a lot of fun. I grew up on four wheelers, and will probably never outgrow the sudden ache to jump on one and drive away

6. I suffer from allergies and have trouble sleeping at night


7. I dream of visiting Greece

8. I hate flying
But we all knew that right?

9. I love going to the ocean on a foggy day

10. I love the mountains

11. I dream of owning at least 50 acres someday, with a cabin and a fourwheeler to drive as far and long as I please

12. little things like tea, dark chocolate,  and pretty socks make me happy

13. I love cooking and baking

14. I love stars 

15. I enjoy pinning things on Pinterest for my future home, especially my kitchen 

And that's it! 

 What are some random facts about you? Comment below! I love to hear from you! 

P.S 

 Roses Are Red has a new post up! Go check it out when you have the time <3 

Random Rant//I'm Back?

I’m a Civil War geek, rock-bound Yankee, and Northern supporter from way back, and I’ll explain why:

First of all, despite what anyone may argue, the conflict was centered around the issue of slavery; should people be allowed to own another human being? Was it their right as an American?

 The South will tell you until their blue(or gray) in the face that it was about state rights, but just what right were they fighting for other than the right to choose whether or not they could have slaves?

 Many will argue that had they been allowed to decide it for themselves, eventually they would have abolished the horrific act. But how do they know that?

 If the South intended to eventually free their slaves, then why the sudden panic to secession when a known Anti-Slavery President was elected? (Huge Lincoln nerd, by the way)

 Now I believe in state rights. Each state should be allowed to have their say on certain matters, and vote on laws that they believe need to be addressed.

 But no country or state, on God’s planet, has the right to decide whether they want to keep another human in bondage; that innocent man has a right to his freedom, a right given to him by God Himself, not some state law.

 That is what the Abolitionists of the time were trying to say. It wasn’t the government’s say that made all men free and equal. It was God Almighty’s.

 And these states had no right to demand the “right” to decide.

It’s the same reason I am Pro-Life. No woman has the right to decide whether she can take the life of an unborn child. Because that child has God-given rights, endowed by it’s Creator. And no state, law, or king can say that it is legal and “up to the mother” to take away it’s right to life.

“We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal: that they are endowed by their Creator with certain, unalienable rights: that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” The Declaration of Independence, 1776

This does NOT state that all men are free to do whatever they desire, but that they are given the right to life and freedom from fear; no age, sex,(men refers to all mankind) or color was mentioned. And may I also point out that the word 'born' is not used here. 
 Instead they state simply, 'Created'. 

I guess I needed to get a couple things off my chest? lol 
 Here I've been absent for quite a while, and then I come in, swinging both fists. 

I would really like to take up blogging again, but I seem to lost all my followers interest. 

 So.... you all tell me! What were your favorite posts from the past year? What kind of posts would you like see more of? 

I guess I haven't felt the need to write as often because all of my 'writer energy' has been going into my novel (I have finally decided on a name!) Strength in Measure. (taken from the hymn, Day by Day) 

Which as been come along pretty well, actually! 

I love immersing myself in the little world I've created, and seeing where the road takes them (and me!) I've actually met a few characters along the way that I never planned on. 

 It's like my novel has a mind of it's own? 

Anyways, ya'll, I'm back, but whether I'm back to stay is up to you! 

 And if you show enough interest in wanting my jabbering 'fingers' (since technically I'm not talking with my mouth) back, then we'll once again be rockin', rollin' and writin' together! 

Don't let me down! What would you like to see more of?