Harp Tunes...Life goes on

See ya

2009-10-25T23:04:00.000-07:00

I bid good-bye to this blog.

The new step to college life deserves a fresh blog.

Visit me at www.prestoconpassione.blogspot.com to see my new layout and updates.

Thank you to all readers over the years this blog has been used. You are all awesome and I will always keep this blog to remember moments that make me smile.

See ya round!

-Kelsie

4th Quarter Senior Thesis

2009-05-12T22:14:00.000-07:00

For Senior thesis we had to deliver a 17-20min speech from a bare outline, and I mean bare outline. My Thesis statement is that all satisfying stories have a death and resurrection theme. So here it is if you care to read it.... :P

Exordium
So you want to write a story. Some of the main story tellers that might enter your head are William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, J.K. Rowling, Homer, George Lucas, J.R.R. Tolkien, Brian Jacques, Stephanie Meyer, Virgil, Tim Burton, Milton, and many more. They all offer examples of famous writing. You begin your story with the plot. You plan the adventures that will take place and the choose the setting with utmost care. You pick your characters and molding them in just the right way. The hero is truly heroic and strikes a dashing figure. The villain is truly evil and in his dark mind are all sorts of horrid thoughts. You use the literary device of foreshadowing and add classical allusions here and there. You lighten the tone with spontaneous humor. After you have your story of several pages, or maybe even several notebooks, you look it over and, in the way of a young author, proclaim it to be amazing. Years later, going through piles of old papers, you rediscover this story and, reading through it, can not help but compare it to works of famous people. You notice some similarities between your story, and stories that have made the literary headlines throughout the years. You note that there is a hero, and in the end, even if there are times when it appears that evil has won, he always defeats the bad guy. You note that the hero always gets a reward, whether it be the damsel in distress, a golden arrow, a happy home, the praise of the general, or simply a good night’s rest. These and other things make the story satisfying, and you feel content with the ending. Famous writers know how to accomplish this; they know what elements are necessary to make a satisfying story.

Narratio
All satisfying stories have a death and resurrection theme. Stories are a key part of the world’s culture, and have always been around. They have been used to remember the history of a nation as well as to entertain the people. The art of story telling has evolved from oral transmission to lengthy novels and has even expanded into the world of music and film. A death and resurrection is central to the way God made the world. It is a necessary element to the story of the whole universe. By story I mean a tale that is not purely historical. It is not simply a list of happenings, but a made up, fictional tale. Jill went to the store, bought some eggs, and then went home is not what I will be calling a story. I mean a more elevated tale that has good and evil, a hero and villain, a problem that needs to be taken care of, and action that moves the plot. A story is not limited to a written book, but includes movies and even some songs. The dictionary definition of satisfy is “to do or offer enough to make somebody feel pleased or content, to fulfill a need or gratify a desire.” By a satisfying story, I mean a story that is resolved. The ending is fulfilling and the characters get what they deserve. The loose ends are tied up and even if it is tragic, justice is served. By a death and resurrection theme, I mean that at some point in the story, a character “dies” and then either is “resurrected” themselves, or causes something else to be “resurrected.” The dying does not have to be a physical death, more often it is portrayed as a sacrifice to something. In the same sense the resurrection is not always a physical raising from the dead. Often it is a character coming back into the goodness they had abandoned, or another character being restored to their former place, or even major events being set into action because of the resurrection. This is important because we all encounter stories. It is part of our education, history, and cultural background. As Christians, a death and resurrection is central to our faith and our lives. It is important for us to be able to look at things around us, stories in particular, and see aspects of our faith in them. This point is disputed because some people argue that not all stories contain a death and resurrection theme.
Partitio
First, people are created in God’s image, and thus have a desire to meet certain qualifications; one of these is a desire for a satisfying story. Second, God has given us an example of a satisfying story through His story for the world. Third, a death and resurrection theme is a natural part of the world, and as a result the authors do not always purposefully add it. Forth, this theme has stood the test of time and can be found in classical as well as modern stories.
Confirmatio/ Refutatio
People are created in God’s image. In Genesis 1:27 we are told that “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created He him; male and female created He them.” We find proof of this in everyday life in things that God does that we do as well. In 1 John 4:10, “In this is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.”, God loves and like Him we do as well. God gives laws as seen in the Ten Commandments, Exodus 20:3-17, and as an echo of this we have made laws such as speed limits and drinking age. Through the Holy Spirit, God speaks and guides as seen in John 16:13, “However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.” Humans speak and guide people as well.
Since we are built in God’s image, we have a desire to meet certain qualifications. There are some things that feel “right” for us to do and others that feel naturally wrong. For example, everyone has a built in sense of justice. The normal person thinks that it is right for an evil doer to be punished. It is a natural desire that we as humans have. Another thing that is desired by humans is a satisfying story. A story that has good against evil. A story that has a resolved ending. We have a sense of how a story should end. This plays a part in whether or not a story is satisfying to us. We like stories that have happy endings. If we can’t have a happy ending, we have to be given justifications for why it could not end happily ever after. The story has to be resolved and the characters need to get what they deserve. If this is not met, the story does not satisfy us. However, some people have been twisted by sin and have a wrong view of what is satisfying. Some people would consider a story without a resolved ending to be satisfying. They would enjoy a story where everyone is brutally murdered and the criminal lives on without being brought to justice. This is a warped sense of what is truly satisfactory.
We desire this because that is the way God writes His stories. All our lives are written by God and He has written the whole history of the world so far. In all of His stories there are several themes that can be found in every one. These themes are particularly clear in overarching plan for mankind’s salvation. God sent Jesus to fight Satan by dying and then being raised from the dead, thus saving mankind and defeating Satan. This story contains all the basics that are necessary to a satisfying story. First, it has an obvious good versus evil. God and Jesus are the good and they are fighting against Satan who is the evil. There is a self-sacrifice seen when God gives up His only Son to die and is continued when Jesus willingly dies for the sake of others. There is a death and resurrection. Jesus dies but is then raised from the dead. There is a restoration when Jesus is restored to His place at the right hand of the Father. Good triumphs in the end because Satan is defeated and no longer has any hold over the people Jesus died to save. These are a few of the major themes that God uses in His stories, and that make up a satisfying story. This story is satisfying because it is resolved. In the end, evil is defeated and all is as it should be. Thus it is a prime example of what constitutes a satisfying story for us humans. Because God writes this way, we, who are created in His image, naturally follow what He has done.
Death and resurrection is a natural part of the world. We see it every day, every year, every week. The changing of the seasons shows a death and resurrection. Summer dies, becoming winter, and then is resurrected at the coming of spring. Trees loose their leaves and “die” only to be resurrected into their full beauty. Each day the sun sets or “dies” and then next morning it literally rises. Weeks come to and end and “die” only to be “resurrected” and start again from the beginning. Nature is used to show mankind that there is a God. Psalm 19:1-6 states, “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.” Just as God uses nature to show us that He exists, He uses nature to show us ordinary things that we copy. Humans are built to imitate. This can be seen in any young child. They speak and act like their parents because they are built to imitate what they see and learn from it. If you spend too much time in England you will most likely pick up an accent because you imitate what you hear. Because death and resurrection is found in the world around us, it is something we copy. It is second nature for authors to include a death and resurrection theme in their stories, although they do not necessarily add it on purpose. It just happens. They simply see that it is liked by people and is one of the elements to a selling story. In the case of pagan writers, they may not know or want to admit that it is a Christian theme but they do know that it is needed to have a satisfying story, so they add it. Death and resurrection is an ordinary occurrence in the world and as a result it is natural for authors to include it in their story line.
Although death and resurrection plays a huge part in God’s story, it is often a much smaller part of the stories humans write. It does not have to be staring you in the face as you read. If you want you can actually find a death and resurrection in just about anything. But you have to draw a line between being over the top and ridiculous about finding this theme, and simply keeping you eyes open for it. That line is found by simple wisdom. You don’t want to go over the top and dissect every single story in the attempt to find this theme. But, you should consider the fact that all satisfying stories have this theme, and it does no harm to keep your eyes open for a possible death and resurrection in any story that you find to be satisfying.
If something is to be said to be true, it should have stood the test of time. Finding death and resurrection themes in stories is one of those truths that has stood the test of time. There are many stories that are considered “classics” now that have this theme. One example of this can be found in Homer’s Iliad. At one point in the story, Achilles has retreated to his tent and refuses to fight with the rest of the troops. As a result, the Greek army is loosing. In a brave attempt to regain lost ground, Patroklos takes Achilles’ armor and goes out to fight. He is killed and in revenge for his fallen friend, Achilles returns to the battle field. This can be seen as a death and resurrection. Patroklos literally dies so that Achilles can be resurrected from his state of immobility. A death and resurrection theme can also be seen in Spencer’s Fairy Queen. Red Cross is fighting the dragon toward the end of the book. The first day he is sorely beaten and happens to fall into the Well of Life. Una, watching from afar, thinks he is dead but is overjoyed to seen him emerge healed from the well the next morning. He continues to fight and ends up killing the dragon. Redcross’s fall into the well, and the fact that Una thought he was dead can be seen as a death. The next day, he is resurrected from that death and ends up defeating his enemy. In Dickens’s David Copperfield, this theme can be found as well. It is more of a situational death and resurrection as opposed to a literal one. The relationship in the Strong’s marriage dies when Uriah Heep accuses Annie of being unfaithful. Their relationship is resurrected once they actually confront the issue and their love is just as strong if not stronger than before. The Iliad, Fairy Queen, and David Copperfield are all considered to be classics, have stood the test of time, and have death and resurrection themes throughout.
This theme of death and resurrection can also be seen in modern stories. One example is Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy. In The Fellowship of the Ring, Gandalf supposedly dies when he fights the Balrog. He falls down and everyone supposes that he is dead. In the next book, The Two Towers, Gandalf comes back as a more powerful wizard. This is a death and resurrection. A death and resurrection can also be found in the Harry Potter series. The most obvious one is at the end of the last book. Harry faces off with Lord Voldemort and basically kills himself to destroy the evil wizard. He goes to this in-between place where Dumbledore, who is dead, talks to him and informs him that he cannot be dead yet. Harry then comes back to life, his resurrection, and lives to see the wizard world be free from the evil threat. Both these series are modern and well know and loved by the general public, and both have death and resurrection themes.
A death and resurrection can be found in any satisfying story of any genre. It is not limited to fantasy stories but can be seen in all different types. This includes tragedies. An example is Shakespeare’s Hamlet. First, Hamlet is a satisfying story. The story is resolved in the end and, although the reader may not like the steps leading to the final outcome, justice is served. All the main characters die, which is tragic, but it is satisfying that they die. If any of the main characters survived, they would not be able to live a happy peaceful life. Hamlet would live with the blood of his potential father-in-law on his hands and the knowledge that the girl he loved died because of his actions. The Queen would have to live with the knowledge that she married her husband and son’s murderer. The King would have to live with the guilt of not only killing the former king, but also his wife and son. Ophelia would live with the emotional burden of seeing her father, brother, and lover die before her eyes. Her brother would live without the two people he held most dear. None of these characters could survive the story and be happy without a drastic change in the story line. If Shakespeare had left any one of them alive, the reader would not be satisfied. A death and resurrection can be seen in this play. At the beginning, Hamlet’s father recently died and as a result Hamlet is in mourning which is a type of death. When he sees his father’s risen ghost, Hamlet is resurrected from his depressed state and moves into a flurry of action in order to exact revenge. This may seem a little far fetched but consider how natural it is to have a death and resurrection and how many forms it can take. As long as the story is satisfying, there is a death and resurrection theme.
I am not saying that unsatisfactory stories do not have a death and resurrection. There are some unsatisfactory stories that do, in fact, have a death and resurrection. An example of this can be seen in the Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket. In the last book, the evil villain, Count Olaf, is finally defeated but the story ends with the children sitting in a boat, in the middle of the ocean, with no idea of what to do with their lives. Although evil is defeated, the story is not resolved. The reader does not know what will happen to the children or even if they will make it safely to land. But in the series, a death and resurrection can be seen. When the children fall into Count Olaf’s clutches, they always hit a low point where it seems that they are finally defeated; this is a death. However, they always manage to pull through and rise up triumphant from their imprisonment. This does not last long, but it is there. Although some unsatisfactory stories do have a death and resurrection theme, this theme is seen particularly in satisfying stories.
Peroratio
All satisfying stories have a death and resurrection theme. People are created in God’s image, and thus have a desire for a satisfying story. God has given us an example of the perfect story and, because we imitate Him, we write the way God does. A death and resurrection theme is a natural part of the world. Since it is such a natural addition to a story, the author does not necessarily add it on purpose. A death and resurrection in stories has stood the test of time because it can be found in classic as well as modern stories. There are some things in this world that we take for granted without really thinking about them. We never stop to consider how fascinating it is that we subconsciously want stories to fit a certain mold, and if they don’t, we don’t like them. It is the same with a death and resurrection theme. It is such a huge part of the world that we often neglect to look for it in the small areas of life. But it is there, where ever you look, and can be found.

2009-01-05T15:49:00.000-08:00

Hush, hush don't you rush into the starry dreams
of quite slumber.

Where hopes have breath
And speak undying truth.

Where hearts are broken so hearts can be made whole,
Where loves are forgotten so they might be remembered,
Where brothers die so you might live,
But all that was lost is found again.

Where the soul finds comfort
And the mind finds peace,
Where the heart is healed
And the body is eased.

Where desires are living creatures
And wishes flow in living streams;
They can be caught, they can be satisfied
And everything is as perfect as you could hope.

But hush, hush, don't you rush into the starry dreams
of quiet slumber.
Because where you go I cannot follow
For your dreams are not mine.

So stay with me for a short time longer
And we will act a dream
And deceive ourselves
For wishes are not living streams
And hope is no more than a breeze.

2008-12-18T16:04:00.001-08:00

So I was wandering around and remembered that I do have a blog as well as facebook. I read my last post and saw that it was from December last year. I seemed only right to make a post since it's been almost exactly a year since my last one.
Pretty much life is amazing. School is good, work makes money, I have a horse of my own, I still dance on Saturdays, and my friends are beyond amazing.
If you read this and are still a blogging person that I used to do blog stuff with leave me a comment and I just might write more... you never know :D

Nothing

2007-12-06T21:19:00.000-08:00

I don't know if anyone visits this anymore, I know I hardly vist other peoples blogs. Well hello, I am alive, bearly, and looking forward to the Christmas Season. Let's all sing Christmas Carols!!! Well, random things. I have a facebook so you can see me there. I might post more here, I would like to.... think, think, think..... bye.

Playing with the Pros

2007-09-19T21:23:00.000-07:00

So, Sunday the 16th, 2007 I participated a grand concert. For the last few years, Mrs. O'T. has held a concert in Uniontown in order to raise enough money to but a nice piano for the Catholic church there. Last year she had enough money to buy the piano, so this year she wanted to hold a think you concert, free or charge, to thank the community. Mrs. O'T. contacted me through my harp teacher and asked me to play in this concert. I said yes (only to regret it days later).

I have not played in a concert of any sort for quite a long time which made it rather exciting. What made it even more exciting was the fact that local university professors and heads of music department people were also performing. These included the Washington State University String Trio, the Tapestry women's choir, Jeff Savage on the piano, The Mauchley Duo on the piano, and the Idaho-Washington Concert Chorale Chamber Choir to mention a few. I was the youngest most inexperienced person there.

Sunday I had to be at the church (St. Boniface) by 4:00 for a 15min run through. Well, there were people there. As soon as I started playing, the room went silent. Now this church is beautiful and everything echos amazingly, so all I was hearing was the song echoing around and my own breathing. On my last song, Canon in D, played from memory, I messed up on the last bit where I never mess up and was not able to really pull it together. Everyone applauded amazingly and Mrs. O'T. said I made here cry (there were tears in her eyes).

Papa and I then hung around Uniontown till 5:30. The concert started and 6:00 and I was able to listen to the first half. For the second half I had to wait in a bed and breakfast next door to the church till it was my turn.

They came a got me and I had to wait in a small stuff entrance way for one song. Then I was on. The first two songs were surprisingly relaxed feeling and I was sort of enjoying myself. Then Canon came and everything tensed. I was fine till that same part near the end. I hit something wrong, but fudged it and got back on for the last two sections and a final grand D chord. I took my bow and joined Papa in the audience. After a couple more performers I came up for a final bow.

Afterward, I had people coming up and thanking me and telling me how much they liked it. I had one lady tell me I made her cry. A man came up and said that while I was playing a sudden idea poped into his head. "That's what it must be like to go to heaven; not loud blaring of trumpets but a soft, calming sound." I wasn't quite sure how to respond.

Despite crazy nerves I pulled through and accomplished the following: performed with the head-haunchos, made someone consider what going to heaven is like, made a few people cry, and proved to myself that "I really can do these things!"

Sunbutter!!

2007-08-22T15:33:00.000-07:00

Presenting the all fabulous..... Sunbutter!!!!

What is sunbutter? Sunbutter is roasted sunflower seeds ground into a peanut butter substance and used as a substitute for peanut butter.

What's so great about that? Now, people who are allergic to peanuts can use Sunbutter in place of peanut butter. Then can eat PB&J sandwiches with the Sunbutter as well as us it in recipes!!!

What do I care? My litter sister is deathly allergic to peanuts so this is something she can eat!!! When her brothers have PB&J's for lunch Mama does not have to make something totally different for her. She loves Sunbutter on crackers, in oatmeal, anytime one would use peanut butter.

The taste? It tastes like sunflower seeds. The texture is just like peanut butter, only darker.

Who ever invented Sunbutter is sure to become very rich in the future. Thank you Mr. Sunbutter-Inventor!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-08-21T22:43:00.000-07:00

*yes, I know about the big picture but am too tired to deal with it so if you have any suggetions as how to get it smaller do leave a comment. If not, just enjoy the pretty scenery.

News

2007-08-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, I this year is going to be a huge change for me. I am going to a private school and bidding homeschooling goodbye. This decision has been one of the hardest we have had to make concerning my future. Going to this school will offer a better education that I could hope to achieve on my own as well as help preparing for college. The down side is that since this decision was very last minute all the plans that I had made for homeschooling and tutorials have crashed to the ground, leaving me feeling like an uprooted traitor.

So, I am getting ready for a very busy school year. I have school from 8:30-3:15 every week day and then either work of have some activity till about 6:00 each night. I then have dinner as well as homework to finish that night. Saturdays consist of a dance class in the morning then work till 4:00. Sundays will be beautiful, glorious days of rest :)

Hope to be alive enough to continue to post but we shall see.

"Fortune is a fickle-footed ally."
-The Jewish War by Josephus

"Life brings sorrows and joys alike. It is what a man does with them- not what they do to him- that is the true test of his mettle."
-Theodore Roosevelt

It's Here

2007-08-06T08:37:00.000-07:00

Trinity Fest!!!!

Quiz

2007-07-25T17:09:00.000-07:00

You scored as Elinor Dashwood, As Marianne's older sister, Elinor lives at the other end of the emotional spectrum. She rarely reveals her intense feelings and is more concerned with being honest and loyal than having what she deserves. Even though her intentions are pure, she sets herself up for loss by constantly placing other people before her own needs. Overall, Elinor is gentle and rational but is just as capable of radical emotions (despite her withholding them) as her sister.

Elinor Dashwood

66%

Jane Bennet

53%

Emma Woodhouse

44%

Marianne Dashwood

41%

Elizabeth Bennet

34%

Charlotte Lucas

31%

Lady Catherine

13%

Which Jane Austen Character are You? (For Females) Long Quiz!!!
created with QuizFarm.com

Hummm...... Quizzes are so fun but one wonders how true they are.

Hello

2007-07-20T16:22:00.000-07:00

Horse Camp

2007-07-11T14:05:00.001-07:00

Sierra

Beautiful Angel.

Round up.

McGoo (Peggy's horse)

Traci, Cristina, and Amy at the river.

Dead I Think

2007-07-05T20:42:00.000-07:00

I am here, I am alive, I had a great time at horse camp, a great birthday, and a great 4th. How 'bout you?
Here are some pictures from the work week.

Bell Mare; sweet and I love her!

Twilight; good, very fast, but I fell off of him :)

Peggy and Gus in the tack trailer.

Laura and McGoo; the perfect pair. Brenda; big and beautiful.

Where Have I Been?

2007-06-04T22:14:00.000-07:00

So, right now I am watching You've Got Mail. It is really fun and it is pretty clean. Only one part to skip because of what they say and just a little language. Over all a very fun, girly movie.

I have an awesome job at Green's Cleaners (a dry cleaners downtown). I love my job!!! It is so fun but there are so many little details to remember. I am feeling really good about knowing what to do... except for closing, that needs a little more practice. I even have a key to the building!! The first key on my key chain :)

I will be leaving on Monday for the horse camp work week and coming back on Friday. Saturday I work, go to a graduation party, maybe host a meeting, do tons of laundry, and repack for another week of the girls horse camp. Monday through Saturday I will be at the horse camp. As soon as July gets here I will have a grand B-day party for myself and then start thinking about the SAT, ACT, and collage scholarships, plus work like crazy to make enough money for a grand trip in the spring.

So, that is what I have been up to lately :)
Type at you all later,
Many smiles :)

P.S.
Like my new look??? I am having fun!!!

Spring Windy 2007

2007-05-21T17:35:00.000-07:00

Valerie and I were having fun with the camera :)

Thanks for the help!

Dance Away

2007-04-28T09:07:00.000-07:00

Today is my dance recital. It begins at 4:00 so for all of you in this area (you know who you are) you must come because it is going to be amazing. I am dancing in five dances which include a duet with Cristina and a solo during the grand finally.

At the moment I am not nervous... but I will be :)

Grandma and Grandpa are here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Will talk at you later.

Smiles *plastered on face*

Kelsie 8-{

Princess Emmaline

2007-04-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

Here is my dear sister, dressed up and looking beautiful.

More pictures will come very soon.

P.S.
Check out the Family Blog in my links.

100th POST!!!

2007-04-05T15:57:00.000-07:00

Pictures of Mr. Thomas.

Doctor, Mama, and Thomas

Isn't he adorable??

Picture!

2007-03-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

Thomas Calvin!!!!

Announcment

2007-03-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

I am pleased to announce the birth of Thomas Calvin Handel. He was born at 9:18 on Wednesday the 28th of March weighing in at 8 pounds 8and a half ounces and measuring 20 inches long with blue eyes and brown hair. Mother and baby are doing well and we expect them to come home this afternoon. Thank you all for your prayers!

With joy,

Kelsie

Happy News!!

2007-03-28T12:52:00.000-07:00

For all of you who read this, I have some good news. Mama went to the hospital today to have the baby!!!!!!!

I will update as soon as we know more :)

Quotes

2007-03-26T14:36:00.000-07:00

"There are four basic food groups, milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, and chocolate truffles."
-Unknown

Erin will like this one :)

"Books are not made for furniture, but there is nothing else that so beautifully furnishes a house."
-Henry Ward Beecher

"You cannot put straight in others what is warped in yourself."
-On the Incarnation by St. Athanasius

Tag Here I Come

2007-03-26T14:19:00.000-07:00

Here we are at last. This is a hard quiz!! I will give it my best shot but if I think of any better answers I will add an edit.

Character you'd most like to have over for tea?
At the moment, Dr. Frankenstein. Question I would ask. "Why did you tell your wife to go to bed and then stay down there waiting for the monster to kill you? Can't you see past yourself?"

Character you'd most like to have as a sibling?
Dymory Ingleford. He makes the best brother ever. Just read Enemy Brothers by Constance Savery to find out why.

Character you'd most like to be friends with?
Buran.

Character you'd most like to have as a cousin?
Emma Woodhouse.

Character you'd most like to have an adventure with?
Taggerung.

Favorite quirky character?
Ummmmmm..... Luna Lovegood????

Favorite love-to-hate character?
Esme Squaller.

Favorite bad guy?
I have to agree with Erin on this one The High Witch is my favorite bad guy.

Coming Soon to a Blog Near You....

2007-03-22T22:20:00.000-07:00

An update on Feminine Virtues. A long over due tag from Miss Erin. An announcement on Thomas's birth (not yet but, Lord willing soon). Driving. Break time!!! Irish dance solo. Grandparents coming. And.... A NEW CAR!!! (not mine ;)

P.S.
Check out my quote above... at the very top.. :)

On the Messiah

2007-03-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

Saturday, March 3rd the Choirs and Orchestra of Christ Church along with the NSA Choir performed Handel's Messiah. Everyone in the audience and said it was wonderful and even all the singers I have talked to agree. I, however, disagree. I must say that it was the worst choir performance I have been in. It was a lot of fun and the music was glorious to sing, but, when I think of all the little mistakes we made, and how much better and more glorious it could have been, I feel sick. There were many, many missed entrances, or entrances only a few people managed to stagger in on and so many lost dynamics and style that makes the music what it is. The tenors totally lost it during one song. The house lights were flashing on and off at this time so there was a distraction but not an excuse. I think the reason for these mistakes arose from several factors. Mainly, we, as a whole, were not as familiar with the music as we should have been. Some of the songs we had just started and for most of the time I had to read the music from my score. Another reason was a lack of watching Mr. R, the director. Everyone could have done a much better job at this. Thirdly, I think we should have practiced with the opening cues more. Even having the piano play the entrance during practice would have worked. Lastly, I think the director could have done a better job a cuing everyone. Mr. R. is a wonderful director but he has his weaknesses. So, in my view, the concert was badly done. I was so disappointed that at the end I felt that we did not deserve the applause and I had to force myself to smile. If there had been just a few mistakes I would be happy with the performance, but since so many little things piled up I am not pleased. Standing for two and a half hours did not help and since I felt nervous about the entrances I was tense and worried throughout the whole performance.
It was fun to sing, but not gratifying.

Now, Cristina and Erin, you two must present your view and I am sure it will be on the bright side of things :)

Driving!

2007-03-12T15:35:00.000-07:00

I got my DRIVER'S LICENSES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It is very cool and lots of fun. My first trip as a true driver was taking my little brother to a friends house. The second was driving across town to my friend's birthday party.

Hello

2007-03-06T08:27:00.000-08:00

OK. I swear that I will post again soon, maybe even today. Erin, I will do the tag. Cristina, I will post about the Messiah concert and put you down as a reference to hear a more cheerful account. Traci, I will come and see you!!

But right now.....

I have some scarily awesome news......

I am scheduled............

To take...........

A DRIVING TEST ON THURSDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Arr Matey!!!

2007-02-20T22:31:00.001-08:00

My pirate name is:

Bloody Bess Flint

Every pirate lives for something different. For some, it's the open sea. For others (the masochists), it's the food. For you, it's definitely the fighting. Like the rock flint, you're hard and sharp. But, also like flint, you're easily chipped, and sparky. Arr!

Get your own pirate name from piratequiz.com.
part of the fidius.org network

Birthday Time!!!

2007-02-20T20:56:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Traci!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You are a wonderful friend full of joy and laughter that makes me smile :)
Love you tons,
Have a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious birthday!!
Number 15!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kelsie

Feminine Virtues

2007-02-13T21:40:00.000-08:00

I have been attending a Feminine Virtues class taught by our pastor's wife, Mrs. W., and thought I would share some of my notes with you all.

Class 1 -Cheerfulness

Cheerfulness is being pleasantly bright.
God is the source and direction of joy and everything you do is an offering to Him.
We have a duty as Christians to be cheerful. Christians have God so we have a reason to be happy.
Be cheerful when you are giving anything, this includes doing your chores, helping people and family, etc.
Sin hinders happiness so confess your sins.
It is unworthy of a Christian to complain.

Class 2 -More on Cheerfulness

Again, sin and ingratitude hinders cheerfulness.
If you find yourself not being cheerful, count your blessings and relies what God has given to us, even it is just being thankful that we have two legs to stand on.
Murmuring always makes things worse.
Murmuring is a big wast of time and God is going to judge it; so don't do it!
Sin is like mud on the windshield; it hinders your vision and perspective and you can't think straight.

Start doing things you don't want to do.
God is the model for all virtues.
Discipline your emotions, don't let them discipline you.
Don't indulge in the mopey blue feelings.
Listen to what your feelings, mind, and thoughts are saying and if it is not pleasant and Godly, switch to a different channel.

When you don't feel cheerful, pray.

How to be cheerful in trials.
God gives us little trials to prepare us for big ones.
Grieve like Christian women when some one dies.
Don't be cheerful in the sense of pretending that nothing sad happened.
Grieve for them, thank God for them, and realize that God does all things well.

When talking to someone who has lost someone dear, unless you are a close friend, don't dwell on the sadness.
Let them know you are praying for them.
Cheer them by changing the subject etc.
Again God does all things well.

Class 3 -Diligence

Diligence means hard working, steady, persevering, constant, and careful.
All things we do are through God's grace.
Be diligent in chores, school, jobs, dance, etc.

Don't be a workaholic but work willingly.
Don't be a wimp; don't be afraid of working with your hands.
Don't be easily lead astray.

There is danger in idleness.
Idleness tends to lead to sin.
Don't share your parents faults with other people.

God blesses diligence.

Be diligent in following the Lord.
Pay attention to your spiritual life.
How is your soul doing?
2 Peter 1:5-8

Valentine's Day is Coming!

2007-02-12T21:32:00.000-08:00

Get your own valentinr

This is really cool! I got it from Miss Erin.

Got to see this

2007-01-24T21:21:00.000-08:00

All right people, I stole this link from Lindsey. Go here to see Ryan giving his declamation, it is.... shall we say very cool.

Tag from Cristina

2007-01-24T21:04:00.000-08:00

Three things that scare me: Spiders, close spaces, crazy drivers
Three people who make me laugh: Traci, my little brother David, Valerie's giggles
Three things I love: My family, friends, and music
Three things I hate: Mushrooms, open cupboards, dirty kitchen floors
Three things I don't understand: Greek, Halo, Why there are not more that 24 hours in a day
Three things on my desk: My watch, a stack of books, a pencil with "I survived Lemony Snicket" on it
Three things I'm doing right now: Listening to "The ABC Murders" by Agatha Christy, typing this, deciding what to do next
Three things I want to do before I die: Go to Europe, raise a family, ski
Three things I can do: Play the harp, wink with only one eye, teach piano
Three things you should listen to: A baby's laugh, Handel's Messiah and Israel in Egypt, the ocean waves
Three things you should never listen to: Mothers yelling at their children, Sirens, gossip
Three things I'd like to learn: How to scuba dive, how to speed read, how to speak Latin with ease
Three favorite foods: Chicken Caesar Saled, Pizza, Bread
Three beverages I drink regularly: Water, Iced Tea, Juice
Three TV shows/Books I watched/read as a kid:Sesame Street, Wish Bone, The Crat Brothers

An Essay

2007-01-24T20:41:00.000-08:00

Here is an essay I recently wrote for my writing class. Let me know what you think.

Changing Emma

“Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition seemed to unite some of the best blessings of existence.” So begins Jane Austen’s much loved novel, Emma. The heroine, Emma Woodhouse, is a young lady of high social standing who enjoys flattery and attention. Mr. Knightley is the only gentleman who refrains from flattering Emma and instead corrects her mistakes. By showing true charity to those around him, Mr. Knightley helps change Emma from a selfish girl to an honest woman.

Mr. Knightley is one of the only people to show true charity to the Bateses. By being truly interested in their welfare, Mr. Knightley sets himself up as an example for Emma. The Bateses are two poor women who have fallen from their former social standings. Mr. Knightley is constantly assisting them. At one point, the Bateses are invited to a party and were going to have to decline the invitation due to the fact that they could not afford a carriage. Mr. Knightley arrives on the scene and offers the use of his carriage. Miss Bates said that “nobody was every so fortunate as herself” and thanked Mr. Knightley profusely. Instead of blocking out Miss Bates’ chatter like most people, Mr. Knightley respects her and pays attention to what she says.

Emma, on the other hand, is not truly interested in the Bateses. She pays them visits only to look kind in the eyes of others. While visiting the Bateses, Emma often finds herself lost in thought when Miss Bates is talking to her. Emma does not respect Miss Bates’s age or former social standings but mocks her. During the Box Hill picnic, Emma makes fun of Miss Bates by making a hurtful remark about how much Miss Bates talks. Mr. Knightley is gracious toward the Bateses while Emma is unkind and mocking. Mr. Knightley acts with true charity and sets an example for Emma to follow.

Mr. Knightley also shows true charity to Emma. While all the gentlemen around Emma are flattering her, Mr. Knightley remains unflattering and truthful. At one point in the book, Emma has sketched a portrait of Harriet and is displaying to several people. Mr. Elton “was in constant raptures” over the portrait and flattered Emma’s skill throughout the evening; he even insisted on personally taking the portrait to London to be framed. Mr. Knightley does not flatter her but simply states “‘you have made her too tall, Emma’” which was true for “Emma knew that she had, but would not own it.” Mr. Knightley does not flatter Emma but points out the truth.

Mr. Knightley is honest to Emma and does not deceive her. He points out her crucial mistakes that others brush over in flattery. At the beginning of the book, Harriet Smith, who has no claims “either of birth, nature, or education,” has been befriended by Emma. Harriet comes to Emma to receive her advice about a marriage proposal for Mr. Martin, a tenant under Mr. Knightley. Emma has plans for Harriet to marry someone else and so convinces Harriet to refuse Mr. Martin. Harriet refuses a respectable marriage in the hope that she might possibly get a better one. When Mr. Knightly discovers Emma’s role in this decision, he is very disappointed in her and rebukes her manipulation of Harriet’s life. After Emma is unkind to Miss Bates during the Box Hill party, Mr. Knightley upbraids her rather than let it go as a slip of the tongue. Mr. Knightley says “She [Miss Bates] is poor; she has sunk from the comforts she was born to…Her situation should secure your compassion. It was badly done, indeed.” Mr. Knightley acts with true charity by not flattering Emma but pointing out her mistakes.

Throughout Jane Austen’s Emma, Mr. Knightley’s acts of true charity change Emma. Mr. Knightley constantly shows courtesy to the Bateses, setting an example for Emma to follow. Toward Emma, Mr. Knightley shows true love by refusing to flatter her. By pointing out her mistakes, Mr. Knightley helps Emma acknowledge her errors and change into a woman worthy of his love.

Happy 16th Birthday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-01-21T15:41:00.000-08:00

Happy 16th Birthday to Cristina!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Everyone go here and wish her a wonderful day!

Cristina,
You have been a spectacular friend and I am very thankful for you friendship. May you have a beautiful day!!!!!

Kelsie

Quotes from Tacitus

2007-01-14T21:25:00.000-08:00

I have recently finished reading The Annals of Imperial of Rome by Tacitus and have found a few quotes from it.

"Yet even apparently insignificant events such as these are worth examination. For they often cause major historical developments."

"For things unnoticed are forgotten; resentment confers status upon them."

"The senate ordered his books to be burnt by the aediles. But they survived, first hidden and later republished. This makes one deride the stupidity of people who believe that today's authority can destroy tomorrow's memories."

Happy Birthday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-01-08T15:43:00.000-08:00

Happy 16th Birthday to Erin!!!!!!

Everyone head over here and wish her a Happy Birthday!

Erin, you have been a super great friend and I look forward to many more years of friendship. May God bless you in the years to come as he has in the past.

Love ya,

Kelsie

Tag

2007-01-01T14:49:00.000-08:00

Erin tagged me a loooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooong time ago so I hope this is the right one.

A - Available/Single?
Single
B - Best Friend?
All my friends are wonderful and I could not pick a "best friend" from them.
C- Cake or Pie?
Cake
D - Drink Of Choice?
Some delicious juice
E - Essential Item You Use Everyday?
Hairbrush
F - Favorite Color?
A grayish-greenish-blueish color
G - Gummy Bears or Worms?
Worms
H - Hometown?
As is where I grew up? Bigfork, Montana
I - Indulgence?
Bucer's (a local coffee shop)
J - January or February?
January, sister's birthday, friends' birthdays
K - Kids?
My siblings
L - Life Is Incomplete Without?
God
M - Marriage Date?
Some time after the next 4 years (Lord willing)
N- Number Of Siblings?
I'll say 9; 8 brothers here, 1 on the way, and 1 sister
O - Oranges or Apples?
Apples
P - Phobias/Fears?
Spiders
Q - Favorite Quote?
Sorry, don't have a favorite, there are too many wonderful ones!
R - Reason to Smile?
Every day
S - Season?
As in favorite season? Spring or Fall
T – I Tag
Whomever has not done this
U - Unknown Fact about Me?
I worry about possible deaths of people when they are late
V - Vegetable you don't like?
Brochili
W - Worst Habit?
Putting off homework
X - X-rays You've Had?
None that I know of :)
Y - Your Favorite Food?
I don't know. At the moment, Chicken Caesar Salad
Z - Zodiac Sign?
Huh? Possibly Cancer (the crab)?

I'm Back!

2007-01-01T14:24:00.000-08:00

First of all,

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

second,

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

third,

Where have I been?

I am on break and enjoying myself immensely. On Wednesday, the 19 of Dec., I lead the girls choir from my church. Mr. R., the choir director, had sent out an e-mail canceling choir but since the church office was closed, the e-mail did not get out till after choir. So, we were all sitting there and Mr. R. still had not arrived. One of the moms came in and appointed Cristina and myself to continue choir. Cristina had just joined the beginning of this school year and I have been doing choir for about 5 years, so Cristina helped set things up and I lead. We went over the two songs we were singing in church on Sunday with the younger girls and after they left continued working on Handel's Messiah with the older girls. Everyone behaved wonderfully and I believe we all had a great time. My first taste of directing. It was quite exciting.

The girls' choir sang in church Christmas Eve and I believe we did very well. Mr. R. once said that we would sound "precious" and that definition fits perfectly. We did not sound strikingly beautiful, nor horridly bad, but rather precious.

Last night, for New Year's Eve, we went to the Q's house. We played "Aw Schucks", "Family", and "Four on the Sofa". It was a blast!

This morning, I went over to Cristina's house and we played Age of Empires III and Star Craft. Very fun :)

Hope you all have not abandoned me and will continue to visit my blog despite my terrible sin of not posting for simply ages.

Smiles (off to watch tons of football)

Kelsie Eve

Hello Again :)

2006-11-28T22:26:00.000-08:00

I drove in the snow for the first time today! It was very exciting. I drove Papa to Roseour's to get milk. In the parking lot I slammed on the brakes and felt the anti-lock system switch on; in a side street after stopping I pushed hard on the gas and felt the tires spin. It was awsome!

Nathan and Peter both got a deer; Nathan's is hanging in the apple tree at the moment. I will post some pictures of the mighty hunters and their kills later.

I bought my windy ticket today! Hurray for balls, dresses, and fancy hair do's!

It is cold and snowing. Here comes Christmas!

Quotes

2006-11-28T12:50:00.000-08:00

"Education is not like filling a bucket, it is lighting a fire."
-Plutarch

"In every country paupers envy respectable citizens and make heros of unprinciple characters, hating the established order of things and hankering after innovation; discontented with their own lot, they are bent on general upheaval. Turmoil and rebellion bring them carefree profit, since provety has nothing to lose."
-The Conspiracy of Catiline by Sallust

What's in a Name

2006-11-13T21:49:00.000-08:00

Hermonie -in Greek legend, the daughter of Menelaus and Helen of Troy.

The girl's name Hermione is pronounced her-MY-oh-nee. It is of Greek origin, and its meaning is "messenger; earthly." Feminine form of Hermes.

Friend Test

2006-11-10T14:29:00.000-08:00

I got this off someone's blog who got it from some e-mail thing and I thought it was great so I nabbed it and posted it here for your enjoyment ;)

REAL FRIEND TEST !

A simple friend, when visiting, acts like a guest. A real friend opens your refrigerator and helps himself (and doesn't feel even the least bit weird shutting your 'beer/Pepsi drawer' with her foot!)
A simple friend has never seen you cry. A real friend has shoulders soggy from your tears..

A simple friend doesn't know your parents' first names. A real friend has their phone numbers in his address book.

A simple friend brings a bottle of wine to your party. A real friend comes early to help you cook and stays late to help you clean.

A simple friend hates it when you call after they've gone to bed. A real friend asks you why you took so long to call.

A simple friend d seeks to talk with you about your problems. A real friend seeks to help you with your problems.

A simple friend wonders about your romantic history. A real friend could blackmail you with it.

A simple friend thinks the friendship is over when you have an argument. A real friend calls you after you had a fight.

A simple friend expects you to always be there for them. A real friend expects to always be there for you!

It's....It's...

2006-11-07T21:26:00.000-08:00

It's a BOY!!!!!!!

The baby is a boy!!!

Now I can say... 'I have 6 soon to be 7 brothers and 1 sister'!

Start thinking of boy names!

Quotes

2006-11-07T21:15:00.000-08:00

"History is written by the victors and for their own end." -Dr. George Grant

"Never give in, never give in, never, never, never -- in nothing, great or small, large of petty -- never give in except to convictions of honor and good sense." -Winston Churchill

"The gospel is like a caged loin. It does not need to be defended, it just needs to be let out of its cage." -Charles Spurgeon

On the topic of science vs. God...

"No gods, no masters, for Science is now our decree. Just facts, just factors, in the temple of truth we're free. Our savior, our deliver, a priest in white robes. The Scienists, the experts, in them lie out greatest hopes." -Erasmus Darwin

This is what some people believe today. Pretty scary!

Back form Nowhere

2006-10-30T19:13:00.000-08:00

Boy, have I been away form the blogging world for a while or what?

I have been busy with school, school, and more school.

Here is some big news for you Harry Potter fans, I am reading the books. I am on the fourth and am enjoying them. I must agree that the authors writing style is great and her plot line is captivating.

Another grand news. I am deeply taken with someone............. Don't panic, it is not true love, just another barrier broken down. I adore a cat that has been coming around for that last week. She is beautiful! She is dark brownish tanish blackish kinda like a tortoise shell pattern. She is a darling and will lay with her head on my shoulder and purr like crazy. We will see if I can get a picture of her to post.

And more news. This blog was originally intended to be a summer blog so I may not be posting very often. Please keep coming and commenting even if you don't have anything to say. I will attempt to post at least once a month.

Smiles and autumn cheer for everyone!

2006-10-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

Here is the thing from Cristina's blog.

Please do them!

Click here and here :)

PSAT

2006-10-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, the 18th, I took the PSAT. The PSAT is a preliminary SAT and, if one gets high enough scores, one can qualify for the National Merit Scholarship. The test has five sections: two critical reading, two math, and one writing, but thankfully no essay. Cristina and I went to Logos to taken the test. We arrived at about 8:00 am and were there till about 11:30. Afterward we went to McDonalds for lunch :) I think that the whole thing went very well. I took the test last year but it only counts for the scholarship in your junior year. The scores will come in a couple of months. Hope you all are enjoying the beautiful Autumn weather and colors!!!!

THE END

2006-10-14T10:48:00.000-07:00

I am done, overwith, finished with THE END. Yes, I bought it and stayed up till 12:30 this morning reading it. For the sake of those who have not read it yet, I will not say anything except that Mr. Snicket had better keep writing things.

Unlucky Day

2006-10-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

Friday the 13th!!!!!!!!!

Today is the day!!!!!!

Eveyone keep track of everything unfortunate that happens to you today (I will be taging you).

Let us have a moment of silence to mourn THE END.

2006-10-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

Here is something I got off Katie Beth.

'What" will your obituary say?' at QuizGalaxy.com

Test

2006-10-12T15:34:00.000-07:00

I found this IQ test on someone's blog and thought I would share it with you all. It is a lot of fun. Let me know how smart you are. At the moment, I am somewhat intellegent :)

Little Girl

2006-10-11T20:19:00.000-07:00

Emma said a few very memorable things today.

"[when she gets big] I will go on the potty and get married!"
(She has been watching Sleeping Beauty alot lately)
On asking her of her prince will kiss her she readly agreed.
(We are watching Star Wars)
"He [Yoda] had dog ears!"

How wise are little children.

Tag

2006-10-07T19:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a tag from Erin that I have been meaning to do for a long time.

One book that changed my life: More Than Dates and Dead People by Stephen Mansfield

Book you have read more than once: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Book you want on a desert island: Robinson Crusoe

Book that made you laugh: The Witches by Rolald Dahl

Book that made you cry: Where the Red Fern Grows

Book you wish had been written: A sequel to Jane Eyre

Book you wish had never been written: Science books promoting Evolution

Book you're currently reading: The Yearling

Book you've been meaning to read: Orthodoxy by G. K. Chesterton

I tag whoever has not done it.

Tag Ahoy!!

2006-10-07T19:34:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Cristina, so, here it goes!!!

Candle- flame, hot wax

Boots- black, fuzzy

Airplane- Virginia

Everyone has been tagged, so..... I tag Anyone, O dear, Anyone has been tagged too.... I suppose... I tag... Whoever!!!!

*wink*

2006-09-30T22:01:00.000-07:00

Find a poem about being sick and comment it.

Glorious Quotes

2006-09-29T19:37:00.000-07:00

"The study of history is the best medicine for a sick mind" - The Early History of Rome by Livy

"Like a church bell, a coffin, and a vat of melted chocolate,a supply closet is rarely a comfortable place to hide." - The Hostile Hospital by Lemony Snicket

"It is always cruel to laugh at people, of course, although sometimes if they are wearing am ugly hat it is hard to control yourself." - The Austere Academy by Lemony Snicket

"Fascism and Communism are kissing cousins." - Dr. George Grant

Rather Unfinished Character Description

2006-09-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

Uncomfortably hot grains of sand shifted between her toes as she ran toward the water. Large umbrellas and sun burnt people lay spread out in both directions, everyone as close to the water as they could get without being wet. A large woman, sitting in a white beach chair, licked her fingers after tossing a Lay’s potato chip bag to the ground. Heaving herself out of the chair, the woman made her way to the water, unaware of the unpleasant picture her lumpy arms and legs presented.

Filming

2006-09-26T11:44:00.000-07:00

Now that you are confused and are wondering "what in the world?"; I will tell all. Myself an several friends (Erin, Traci and Cristina included) are in the prossess of producing Sophocles' Antigone. Brady is filming and the rest of us are busy memorizing lines, creating costumes, and many other laborius tasks.

Smiles for everyone!!!!! :D

Three Words

2006-09-25T19:27:00.000-07:00

Filming has begun.

More Dancing

2006-09-20T20:14:00.000-07:00

My performance class is going to be preforming at the NSA basketball game, Saturday at half time. If you missed our performance at the windy, come and watch us!! You are sure to love it :)

Unknown Verses

2006-09-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

Browsing Dr. Grant's blog I came across the "Star Spangled Banner" with all its verses and thought you all might find it interesting.

O! say, can you see, by the dawn's early light,
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight’s last gleaming:
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight,
O’er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming,
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there:

O! say, does the star-spangled banner still wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

On the shore, dimly seen through the mist of the deep,
Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes,
What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep,
As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?
Now it catches the gleam of the morning’s first beam,
In full glory reflected, now shines on the stream.

‘Tis the star-spangled banner, O! long may it wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

And where is the band who so vauntingly swore
That the havoc of war and the battle’s confusion
A home and a country would leave us no more?
Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps’ pollution.
No refuge could save the hireling and slave
From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave!

And the star-spangled banner in triumph cloth wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

O! thus be it ever when freemen shall stand
Between their loved homes and the foe's desolation;
Bless'd with victory and peace, may our heaven rescued land
Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, for our cause it is just,
And this be our motto, “In God is our trust!”

And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

News..

2006-09-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

For those of you who haven't noticed... my mother is expecting a new baby!!!!!! :) :) :D :D :D

New Find!

2006-09-19T11:31:00.000-07:00

Check out Valerie's blog!!!

From Days Gone By

2006-09-10T21:01:00.000-07:00

There has been as death and a resurrection. Our dearest, despised internet died. Note: that is why I have been absent for, O, so long. It was resurrected a few days ago by the repair man. Aren’t we pleased.

My grandparents are here!!!! Time for a lot of spoiling and fun!!!!

School is great! Mrs. P is a wonderful teacher and it is so fun doing school with my friend Cristina. We are having a great time plowing through Total Truth, logically thinking about Logic, grammatically correcting our Grammar, plotting our Geometry, historically categorizing History, like scientists studying our Chemistry, poetically writing, largely reading Great Books, literarily critiquing our Literature, tunefully singing in Choir, devouring our Lunch, and most linguistically talking Latin.

I am all alone. (not really) Mama and Papa are in Seattle with Emma, she has appointments with all her doctors. The appointment with Dr. Manning (her ENT) will be a hearing test to see how well she can hear out of her left ear.

New News

2006-08-30T21:21:00.000-07:00

I have my driving permit!

I started school!

I drove for 20 min tonight with Papa!

I am very busy!

I will post more soon!

Buck Buck

2006-08-29T11:38:00.000-07:00

Hey you all, go HERE to Lindsey's blog and watch NSA sophomore and freshmen guys playing a game called Buck Buck. It is quite amusing and looks like fun.

Dancing Toward Bethlehem

2006-08-27T17:47:00.000-07:00

If there is only enough time in the final
minutes of the 20th century for one last dance
I would like to be dancing it slowly with you,

say, in the ballroom of a seaside hotel.
My palm would press into the small of your back
as the past hundred years collapsed into a pile
of mirrors or buttons or frivolous shoes,

just as the floor of the 19th century gave way
and disappeared in a red cloud of brick dust.
There will be no time to order another drink
or worry about what was never said,

not with the orchestra sliding into the sea
and all our attention devoted to humming
whatever it was they were playing.

-Billy Collins

Yet more

2006-08-24T22:17:00.000-07:00

Your Emoticon Is Smiling

Right now, you're feeling cheerful and content - without a care in the world.

What Emoticon Best Represents You Right Now?

Smile!

You Are a Centaur

In general, you are a very cautious and reserved person.
However, you are also warm hearted, and you enjoy helping others in practical ways.
You are a great teacher, and you are really good at helping people get their lives in order.
You are very intuitive, and you go with your gut. You make good decisions easily.

What Mythological Creature Are You?

I like this one.

Your Ideal Pet is a Big Dog

You're both energetic, affectionate, and a bit goofy.
And neither of you seem to mind very slobbery kisses!

What's Your Ideal Pet?

Hurray!!!

You've Changed 52% in 10 Years

You've done a good job changing with the times, but deep down, you're still the same person.
You're clothes, job, and friends may have changed some - but it hasn't changed you.

How Much Have You Changed in 10 Years?

Wonderful.

And more!

2006-08-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

You Failed 8th Grade Spanish

Sorry, you only got 2/8 correct!

Could You Pass 8th Grade Spanish?

Sniff sniff, you go Cristina!

Your Irish Name Is...

Aishling Fitzgerald

What's your Irish Name?

Cool

Java Chip Frappuccino

You're a caffeine addict and pretty high maintenance about your coffee. There's a good chance that everyone at your Starbucks knows your name.

What Flavor Frappuccino Are You?

Maybe not quite...but pretty close :)

Puppies

2006-08-24T22:03:00.001-07:00

You Are a German Shepherd Puppy

Intelligent, quick witted, and a bit aggressive.
You've got the jaw power to take a bite out of anyone you choose.

What Breed of Puppy Are You?

Since I have posted, you all must do the quiz and post your results on your blogs.

Music

2006-08-19T12:01:00.000-07:00

Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash singing "If I were a Carpenter". This is one of my favorite songs from my new CD of duets.

Beauty

2006-08-17T14:11:00.000-07:00

"I sat up in the boat. Gigantic forest trees were about me, through which, like a silver snake, twisted and twined the great river. The little waves, when I moved in the boat, heaved and fell with a plash as of molten silver, breaking the image of the moon into a thousand morsels, fusing again into one, as the ripples of laughter die into the still face of joy. The sleeping woods, in undefined massiveness; the water that flowed in its sleep; and, above all, the enchantress moon, which had cast them all, with her pale eye, into the charmed slumber, sank into my soul, and I felt as if I had died in a dream, and should never more awake."

-Phantastes
by George MacDonald

A Find

2006-08-15T16:03:00.000-07:00

Here is something I got off of Dr. Grant's blog that I though quite amusing. There is a really funny story behind why he posted this so go to his blog and read it. Believe me, these are really funny.

"96 two-letter words--with their definitions--from that great repository of literary learning: The Official Scrabble Players Dictionary. And they are all spelled correctly:

AA: rough, cindery lava
AB: abdominal muscle
AD: advertisement
AE: one
AG: pertaining to agriculture
AH: expresses delight
AI: three-toed sloth
AL: an East Indian tree
AM: form of "to be"
AN: indefinite article
AR: the letter "R"
AS: to the same degree
AT: in the position of
AW: expresses protest
AX: cutting tool
AY: affirmative vote
BA: (Egyptian) eternal soul
BE: to have actuality
BI: a bisexual
BO: a pal
BY: a side issue
DE: of; from: used in names
DO: a tone of the scale
ED: pertaining to education
EF: the letter "F"
EH: expresses doubt
EL: elevated railroad
EM: the letter "M"
EN: the letter "N"
ER: expresses hesitation
ES: the letter "S"
ET: a past tense of eat
EX: the letter "X"
FA: a tone of the scale
GO: to move along
HA: sound of surprise
HE: male person
HI: used as a greeting
HM: expresses consideration
HO: expresses surprise
ID: part of the psyche
IF: a possibility
IN: to harvest
IS: form of "to be"
IT: neuter pronoun
JO: sweetheart
KA: (Egyptian) spiritual self
LA: tone of the scale
LI: Chinese unit of distance
LO: expresses surprise
MA: mother
ME: personal pronoun
MI: tone of the scale
MM: expresses assent
MO: a moment UP: to raise
MU: a Greek letter
MY: possessive pronoun
NA: no; not
NE: born with the name of
NO: a negative reply
NU: a Greek letter
OD: a hypothetical force
OE: Faeroe Islands whirlwind
OF: coming from
OH: to exclaim in surprise
OM: a mantra
ON: batsman's side of wicket
OP: a style of abstract art
OR: the heraldic color gold
OS: a bone
OW: expresses pain
OX: a clumsy person
OY: expresses dismay
PA: father
PE: a Hebrew letter
PI: a Greek letter
RE: a tone of the scale
SH: urges silence
SI: ti (a tone of the scale)
SO: sol (a tone of the scale)
TA: expression of gratitude
TI: a tone of the scale
TO: in the direction of
UH: expresses hesitation
UM: indicates hesitation
UN: one
US: personal pronoun
UT: musical tone (is now DO)
WE: pronoun
WO: woe"

Great, huh :)

Ozymandias

2006-08-15T15:56:00.000-07:00

I met a traveler from an antique land
Who said: Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert. Near them, on the sand,
Half sunk, a shattered visage lies, whose frown,
And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,
Tell that its sculptor well those passions read,
Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,
The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed,
And on the pedestal these words appear:
"My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings:
Look upon my works, ye Mighty, and despair!"
Nothing beside remains. Round the decay
Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare
The lone and level sands stretch far away.

-Percy Bysshe Shelley
1792-1822

Money

2006-08-14T21:33:00.000-07:00

I made $48 today. Cleaning and babysitting.

Chew on this guide for presentations.

"Come in with a sizzle and go out with a pop."
-Dr. George Grant

Song

2006-08-13T16:14:00.000-07:00

This song is one that we danced to for our recital last April. It was my favorite dance that we did. Thank you Cristina for putting it on for me!!!!!!!!!

Proverbs 14:12

2006-08-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

"There is a why which seems right to a man,
But its end is the way of death."

2006-08-11T15:05:00.000-07:00

Never mind about the music...I can't figure it out.

A Bit of Things

2006-08-11T14:41:00.000-07:00

The dance went amazingly well at the Windy see Cristina's post to hear more. If all works, the music you hear now is our dance music. Very cool.

We drove in the rain yesterday, parallel parked, and drove through a lot of intersections.

"The Inspecter opened his notebook.
'Your name is Halcoc, is't no?' he began.
The butler corrected him.
'H'alcock,' he said, reprovingly.
'H, a, double-l?' suggested the Inspecter.
'There is no h'aitch in the name, young man. H'ay is the first letter, and there is h'only one h'ell.'
'I beg your pardon,' said the Inspecter.
'Granted,' said Mr. Alcock."
~ Five Red Herrings by Dorothy L. Sayers

Eye Strings

2006-08-10T22:02:00.000-07:00

What about having your “eye strings break in death”? Interesting. We sang that in Rock of Ages; the verse goes like this “Whilst I draw this fleeting breath; When my Eye strings break in Death, When I soar through tracts unknown, See Thee on thy Judgment Throne, Rock of Ages, cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee.”

Accomplished Today

2006-08-09T21:18:00.000-07:00

1. Completing paper rout in less than 30 minutes.
2. Not almost falling asleep during Drivers Ed.
3. Embroidering 2 patches for Katie.
4. Stretching out after practicing dancing.
5. Doing 11 heel clicks/ slices/ scissor-kicks-in-hard-shoes in a row.

Aren’t I proud!

Now you do it...Cristina...Erin...Traci...Ruth (if you have time)...Anyone!!

A Concert and More

2006-08-07T12:15:00.000-07:00

Last night was spectacular. We sang a collection of Psalms composed by Mr. Reagan and also his version of Rock of Ages. After an eight minute intermission, we sang Gabriel Faure’s Cantique de Jean Racine (in French) and the Requiem (in Latin). The song I have playing is my favorite solo from the Requiem. Alison Bradley sang the solo (in the performance not in the recording) and she is amazing. I saw Ruth at the concert and she is happy to be here.
I have a cold but will survive. I think…for today is the day of days…today my Irish Dance class perform in front of tons of people…hopefully we won’t die ;) Just kidding, everything will be beautiful J
All of our boarders are here with their families and everyone can’t wait to see us Irish Dance at the Windy (that’s a ball). Scary!!!! We will survive!!!

Lewis

2006-08-06T11:03:00.000-07:00

"Inner silence is for our race a difficult achievment. There is a chattering part of the mind which continues, until it is corrected, to chatter on even in the holiest places."
~Perelandra by C. S. Lewis

2006-08-05T14:23:00.000-07:00

Check out my totaly cool music!!!! Thank you Cristina for helping me!!!!!! If anyone gets anoyed with Jonny Cash...you can go way down to the bottom and turn it off. I am happy!!!!!!!!!

A Party

2006-08-04T19:03:00.000-07:00

For my birthday…which happened a month ago…I had a party. The guests were instructed to dress as a character from a book and this is what we came up with. Rosie was Marie from Calico Captive; Traci was Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz; Cristina was Miriam from Pearl Maiden: Katie and Grace were Jill and Eustace; and I was Buran from Seven Daughters and Seven Sons. I hope they all had a great time, I know I did. We played games, ate wonderful food prepared by my mother, watched movies, spent the night, and had a blast. Thanks you all for coming!! Here are some pictures…

Me.

News, news, news

2006-07-27T16:03:00.000-07:00

A little news now and then never hurt a fly…so…I have been busy. Dance class last night was spectacular, tiring, hot, super hot, extremely exciting, and slightly painful. Friday is auditions for the solo part. Too bad I can’t do it :( Cristina, Grace, and I start the dance with a trio solo so we can’t do the real solo. I am sure one of the other girls will do just wonderfully (I won’t say yet who I think would be good). When do we perform? Monday, August 7th, Trinity Fest Windy (that’s a ball), in front of a lot of people ;) What will we do? Be freaked out for the first four 8counts and then dance our hearts out, feet off, and night away. We’ll have a blast :)

Tagged

2006-07-25T17:37:00.000-07:00

A while ago I was tagged by Miss Erin. So, here are my answers.

You Know You are Crazy About Dancing When…

1. Your feet run through the steps even when you are sitting at dinner.

2. You sing the music on ‘da’ when you are dancing without the music playing.

3.You have a dancers illness called Shin Splints ;)

4.You know off the top of your head how many 8 counts you have in each section.

5.Your dance shoes don’t look brand new anymore.

I now tag Cristina (also know as Irish Dancer) and anyone who likes.

Hello Again

2006-07-25T17:06:00.000-07:00

Now I get to say it; you are all probably wondering where in the world I have been and why I have deserted the bloging world for such an endless time. I know you all have missed me. But, take heart, I AM BACK!!!!!!!!!!!! Where have I been? Well, I have not gone anywhere. Blogger has just had the nerve to not allow me to enter and post or comment! Also, the notorious Internet has died a short death without warning but is now (hopefully) alive again.
I said I would post some more pictures so here they are.

This is Kaelyn, my cousin.

Here is Gizmo and Kaelyn both enjoying the busy beads.

Myself in the Atlantic Ocean for the first time.

Grandma and me (calling home) after touring the Governor’s Palace in Williamsburg.

I don’t have pictures of swimming in the ocean because I forgot to load them onto my computer before I left, however, Grandpa will send me pictures and I will post some of them.

Thursday, Onward and Upward

2006-07-10T16:32:00.000-07:00

Thursday
We left my Grandparents house at about 8:00 am and after stopping at a peanut place to get Virginia peanuts and MacDonald’s to get some breakfast for me and coffee for them we arrived in Raleigh Durham. We went to Paneras and then wandered around Target till it was time to go to the airport. Grandma escorted me to the gate, and then I was on my own. The flight was long and there was some really great turbulence near the end. In Las Vegas, I had to take the shuttle to gate C5. I wandered around and used up about 2 hours of my 4 hour layover. The plane was also delayed about half an hour making my wait yet longer. I read Lieutenant Hornblower and did some Sudoku puzzles. The flight Spokane was only about 2 hours and I sat next to a really nice couple. I got home at about midnight and didn’t go to bed till about 1:30. I was a long day.

Friday
I saw Pirates of the Caribbean Dead Man’s Chest with Cristina, Katie, and Grace. It was ok. Entertaining and fun but it not as good as the first (surprise surprise). I am glad I saw it in the theater.

Saturday
We had a Hard Shoe class. It was so fun!! Dancing is one of the best things in the world. I missed it while I was gone and it is wonderful to be back at it!! Irish Dancers Rock.

Sunday
One never knows how much one enjoys something unless one is deprived of it for a time. Church was wonderful. Familiar faces smiling, the choir singing, and above all, worshiping God with the congregation. We have such a blessing being able to attend such a wonderful church. Even more than before I am grieved for the people who do not know Christ and live without what we often take for granted. As I watched a massive thunder storm approaching in Virginia I began to silently sing “He plants his footsteps in the sea, and rides upon the storm” for the first time, I think, I really felt and knew that He does rid upon the storm.

Monday
Driver training here I come!!!! 7:00 bright and early. It was great. I then cleaned for 3½ hours and made $35. My day has been great.

Pictures will follow soon!!

Wednesday and Coming Tears

2006-07-05T18:50:00.000-07:00

My last day here :( All was calm and relaxing. Grandma and Grandpa leave for California tomorrow so they have been busy packing. Another big storm came in right before supper. This one could be seen coming. The dark clouds came so fast that they looked like smoke. It was amazing. One moment the sky was light, the next, the wind was blowing, rain falling, and the sky was dark. Thunder and lightning came too and lots of it. It is still going as I type. Everything is humid but the rain is great. See you all very soon!!!!

Tuesday and the Number 4

2006-07-05T18:41:00.000-07:00

For the fourth. I slept till 11:30. We had paninis for lunch, made with the new panini press, and delicious brisket (a hunk of beef cured, smoked, cooked in a grill thingy, and made otherwise heavenly), potato salad, green salad, asparagus, and berry crumble for dessert. Everything was amazing. That evening we sat on the back porch and enjoyed the light sprinkling, lightning, and occasional firework. That night, a big storm came through with lightning and rolling thunder. It was a relaxing and delicious 4th.

Monday at the Beach

2006-07-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

Monday was a great day. We went to the Virginia Beach!!!! It was my first time swimming in the Atlantic Ocean and my first time swimming in waves!!!!!!!! It was so fun!!! There were tons of people but that was to be expected being the 4th of July week. The air was hot and humid, the water was perfect, and the waves so cool. There were even pieces of dead jellyfish in the water. They feel like rubbery plastic, and very smooth, and are clear. The part where the tentacles attached is bumpy and rough. We found quite a few whole bodies minus the stinging tentacles. There was a group of girls maybe age 12 and 13 who would scream and run out of the water whenever anyone said anything about there seeing a jellyfish. They were quite entertaining. The jellyfish were amazing and I marveled at how God created them. Nothing manmade could come close to there (even though dead) amazing bodies. The beach was a blast!!!!!!!!

I am Here Still

2006-07-03T20:52:00.000-07:00

Well, I do have internet here. So back to Thursday.
Grandpa and I drove up to Chesapeake to watch my cousin, Kaelyn, while my aunt, uncle, and other cousin, went to a wedding in New York (I think). We arrived there at about 4:00. That evening, two big thunder storms came through and we lost power. It was really cool. Grandpa went and got some Mexican food that we ate by candle light.

Friday
We went shopping (no, I did not get anything) in the morning and then went and walked on the boardwalk by the beach. I even waded in the Atlantic Ocean for the first time. Way cool. Grandma drove up that night after work.

Saturday
My birthday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am 16!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We went to Williamsburg and had a great time. I was at Williamsburg last year but we came too late to get into any of the buildings, but this time, we went earlier and saw the buildings and little stores and had lots of fun. We went to Friendly’s (a burger place) for supper and they sang to me (o dear). We then went back to the house and had the most delicious cake. It is an orange cake mix mixed with orange jello, pineapple juice, and a pudding mix, frosted with a frosting of sour cream, cream cheese, cocoanut, and pineapple chunks. It was so wonderful.

Sunday
Grandma and I went shopping for my birthday present. I got a beautiful little summer dress. It is white with black embroidered flowers and a black sash/bow. I love it and it is beautiful. I also got a really nice new pair of flip-flops because my old ones were getting holey. That was a great day.

Monday
I will tell you tomorrow, right now I am too tired (it is 11:50).

Hello

2006-07-02T09:20:00.000-07:00

I am here!!! I have not had internet connection and will not have it for a few more days so I will post more later. Thank you all for the birthday wishes!!!! I had a great one :) Miss you all.

Cristina, if you want the cat you have but to say the word and I could bring it back for you...no kidding.

Love,
Smiles,
Miss you all,
Kelsie

Wednesday and Kayaks

2006-06-29T08:18:00.000-07:00

Let’s just say that today is Wednesday for now.
Today, I went Kayaking!!!!! Can you believe it????? I can. Grandpa and I left at about 11 and picked up the kayaks (theirs are in California). We then took them down to the lake and got in. These kayaks are really nice because you don’t have your feet stuck inside them. You just sit on top and have your whole body exposed to the air. They are so easy to paddle. A lot easier than a canoe. You sit back, rest against the seat, and begin paddling. Grandpa and I went out for about two hours. We saw four herons and kept following them around the shore. We then went to a Mexican restaurant for lunch and then took Gizmo to the vet. Then, we met Grandma at the lake and she and I did some kayaking. We went under a railroad bridge (I touched it) and watched the train go over and went under the normal car bridge (I touched it). It was so fun!!! Here are some pictures.

God's Glory

2006-06-28T21:01:00.000-07:00

Let’s back up to Monday.
I am about 1 and ½ hours from Raleigh Durham. I am flying above a flat unwrinkled land, dotted by cloud shadows. The earth is divided into perfect squares, rectangles, and an occasional circle resembling a clock. The world and towns look like play houses. Everything is a perfect miniature. Cars drive on thin roads, people, smaller than ants, walk about, houses with pools in their back yards can be seen in detail. Though the sun shines, it must be cold out, tiny ice crystals cling to the windows . I am above the clouds. They appear to be islands on the blue plane, billowing up in thick pillars lying flat in the misty stillness. Clouds are everywhere and no land is visible. Through the white, a dark gaping hole opens, revealing mountains crossed with snow. Clouds come in two types. The thin misty type that spreads everywhere, and the firm pure white kind. The kind that builds and becomes incredible formations. The kind that pillows should be made of and that one wishes to grasp. They create a land of their own, full of hills and valleys. They are sculptures rising out of the air. Our God is truly amazing and His creation speaks His glory.

Gizmo

2006-06-28T19:20:00.000-07:00

About the kitten. My Aunt Renee and Uncle Kevin recently got three kittens but, sadly, two of them died. After we heard that the second kitten had died, Grandpa was out by the garbage cans and found a little kitten on top of his four foot wall. He brought the kitten in for the night and the next morning we let it go, thinking that it was too small to be away from its mother. That afternoon, after Grandma got off of work, she went outside and found the kitten lying behind the garbage cans. It had gotten sick on itself and was covered with ants. Grandma brought it in, cleaned it up, and it spent the night in the bathroom. It had fleas all over it. We were giving it a bath this morning and the fleas were crawling all over in its ears, eyes, and mouth. The poor thing just sat there. We took him to the vet where he was given a really great bath and checked for some viruses. In two weeks he will have to go back for shots and will then get a shot to rid him of all fleas for a long time. Right now, most of the fleas are dead but not all. So, as soon and Gizmo is done with his shots, he will be given to Aunt Renee.
Here is a picture of him before the vet.

And after.

Olny Cuase its wroth repsoting

2006-06-28T19:09:00.000-07:00

Body: cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdanieg. The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid, aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it dseno't mtaetr in waht oerdr the ltteres in a wrod are, the olny iproamtnt tihng is taht the frsit and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae.

The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it whotuit a pboerlm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe. Azanmig huh? yaeh and I awlyas tghuhot slpeling was ipmorantt! if you can raed tihs rpsoet it.

ONLY REPOST IF YOU CAN READ THIS!!!...Udtpae the nbuemr(at the top) boefer psontig

Pretty cool, huh?
Ben sent it to me.