Emma

Emma is my baby sister
I wonder if she knows I really love her
I hear the sweet sound of her laughter
I see her smile brightening my day
I want to give her a big hug
Emma is my baby sister

I pretend I'm not jealous of her
I feel happy when around her
I touch her blond curls
I worry she doesn't feel appreciated
I cry when she cries
Emma is my baby sister

I understand we're very different
I say things I really don't mean
I dream of her jokes
I try to see the very best in her
I hope she knows how much I love her
Emma is my baby sister

Happy Birthday Emma, I hope you have a fantastic day!!! I love you so much!

New Hair!!!

Ha, I've been very much the teenage girl I am through out these last posts. This one isn't going to be much different . . . :P I cut my hair!!! so instead of boring you with details I'm just going to cut right to the chase and show you a picture . . . =D










I love my hair this way :) Hope you like it too :) Happy day!! Merry Christmas to you too :)

Little Shop of Horrors

Oh my goodness!!! I'm pretty stinken excited about this info I'm going to share with you!! I've made it into our school musical Little Shop of Horrors. Yah, I know, it's like the weirdest musical EVER, but hey, it's soooooooooooooooooooo fun to be in musicals so I couldn't really care less!!

I'm just in the ensemble, but it's still super amazing. The auditions were sooooooooooooo scary but way fun. hahaha. I've already made lots of friends!! It's great. And the choir teacher isn't as scary anymore!! Hahaha. Well that's all I really have to say about this because I've got to be off anyways. soooooooooooooooo . . . I'll catch ya later. have a most fabulous day!!!

-A Little Bird

The Suggestion Box

I've thought a lot about things I'd like to see in my household when I'm older. This list comes a lot from what I see that could help me personally if it were applied in my home right now. There are certain times when all of the sudden my parents will say we're leaving "RIGHT NOW!!!" when I've never had any idea that I was supposed to do something and so I'm sitting at the computer in my PJs . . . Doesn't quite work for me. This happens a lot. Sometimes I'll know we're doing something, but I'll have no idea when . . . so I'm never ready. Doesn't quite work for me. This also happens when my parents call for family scripture study, or prayer, or even dinner. It's tough for a person like me.

Something I want to implement, at least in my household in the future, is a family calendar, any one can write on it, any one can put anything on it. And then anything that isn't on that calendar doesn't get done. I'm a person that likes to have a schedule. I don't like being interrupted when I'm doing something. In fact it's REALLY irritating. I like to schedule exactly what I'm going to do each day, so yeah, I even schedule in free time. The only time that I don't really schedule is after 9:00 pm. It's pretty intense. My basic schedule starts off like this . . .

6:00 Get up, bathroom, contacts, get dressed, makeup and hair
6:45 Free Time
7:00 Breakfast
7:15 Shoes on and back pack ready
7:30 Leave for school
7:35 Reach school and go to class
2:40 Little Shop of Horrors Rehearsal
4:00 Leave rehearsal, mom picks me up
4:10 Homework, chores, free time
5:30 Dinner
6:00 Homework, chores, free time

. . .

Do you get my point? I schedule EVERYTHING!!! and when stuff varies from my schedule and routine I get REALLY thrown for a loop . . .

So yah . . . I'm going to have an awesome calendar (probably google calendar) with all my kids accounts connected so they can edit and update the calendar and then we'll all know what's going on. I'll even ask my kids to put in when they're going to do their chores and homework that way I know that we can't all of a sudden go out to dinner or go mini golf or who knows what else. Get my point??

Anyways, about the title, The Suggestion Box, I'm thinking that it'll be an ongoing series. Just like it says, it's going to be little suggestions and ideas that I come up with that I want to do in my own household sometimes. Hey, you might find something you want to use yourself. So . . . it works all around.

May love, peace and happiness find you all!!
-A Little Bird

I'm Fine.

"How are you?"

"I'm fine and you?"

"I'm fine. So . . . "

How may times do we have conversations that start exactly like this? I'd have to say I probably have a conversation start like this daily, if not multiple times daily.



How often is this the case?

I'd have to say this (points at picture =D ) probably also happens daily . . . How often are you going to tell the person you're talking to I feel awful? My life sucks!! The only time we actually deviate from the typical "I'm fine" response is when our life is absolutely phenomenal, which in that case you'd proceed to say, "I'm doing fantastic! I'm so glad you asked, and this is why I'm so happy" etc. etc.

Often times the person asking you how you are doesn't really care either . . . Sad to say, but how often does a cashier at the store ask how you're doing? Maybe a teacher? Maybe a friend? Maybe even a colleague? Hey, maybe they do genuinely care. Maybe they do want you to answer truthfully, but often times it's just a way to get the conversation rolling or just a way to be polite.

I once had my choir teacher ask the whole class how we were. She said something along the lines of, "So how are we today class?"

. . .

Am I the only one confused by that? Why would you ask such a general question like that when you'd get such varied responses from individuals. When you're asked a question like that you're supposed to act in the positive. Did she care how we felt? Probably not. Not until I said I was miserable. Why was I miserable? I have NO clue. But she didn't care until she heard, "Not very good" come out of my mouth. She then got this concerned look on her face (it was great!! hahaha) and she said, "Oh no!! What's wrong?" Like I said earlier, why was I miserable? No idea. So I just said "It's been one of those days." She said, "I had one of those yesterday." And moved on. Did she really care that I was upset? No. Or she would have delved deeper into my answer and asked "Well, what's made it one of those days?" How are you . . . such a stupid pointless question.

So . . . why do we ask the question? Why do we ask each other how we are? When we typically lie . . . ? Or don't care what the other person has to say? To tell you the truth I don't know. =) hahaha, what do you expect? I'm a teenage girl, I don't have the answers. My frontal lobe isn't completely developed. :) hahaha, or so my psychology teacher says.

This is a really short post . . . haha. But I honestly have nothing more to say. I don't know why we ask each other how we are. I don't know why we don't answer truthfully. I don't know.

What do you think? Have you ever had one of those experiences where you wonder why people just go through the ritual?

An Obsession and Dilemma

Btw . . . this post is going to really show how much of a teenage girl I still am. Soooooooooooo . . . if you have a problem with that . . . you'll probably really dislike this post. Sorry!! But I'm the author ;)

Okay. Onto the real matter at hand. Last week during Thanksgiving break I discovered, drum roll please . . . Adam Lambert!

While most people are going all gaga over Robert Pattinson or  Taylor Lautner I'm going crazy over Adam.

K . . . I'm not only going to say that I'm going crazy cause he is hot. (But is he not? I mean look at him!!) But he also has the most amazing laugh and personality. Plus can I mention his fantastic voice?

I could go on and on about this hott hott man. But I won't because I'm off to the dilemma portion of this post. He's gay. AGH!!! Sigh. Such a waste. Such a beautiful waste.

It gets to me. Why do the hottest celebrities always, and I mean ALWAYS!!! turn out to be gay?? Hahaha, it's not like I think I have a chance with him, because, heck, I'd be foolin myself if that's what I thought. But it's kinda awkward when I'm playing Truth or Dare and they say "Who's your celebrity crush?" And I have to say it's Adam Lambert . . . they always (with out fail) ask if I know he's gay and I have to say, "Yes, I know he's gay, such a pity." Or if it's at a school and people ask me what my favorite music is I say, "Adam Lambert . . ." and again they ask, "Do you know he's gay?"

YES, I KNOW HE'S GAY!!! I'd have to be an IDIOT NOT TO KNOW!!!

Wow, now that I've got that out of the way I feel so free!! :D


Can I help thinking he's a total babe? Can I help melting at his voice? Can I help thinking he is soooooooooo freaken amazing? Ha, not really :D But that's okay. Because for right now, I'm in love :) And it's great.





















This is my absolute most favorite song of his, hope you enjoy! It's been going through my head all week!!

Mad World

I stumbled upon this picture today . . .

And it got me to thinking . . . about what a crazy world we live in. We're all on our own path. Some of us to greatness, others to just being what we would call normal. Then I thought of a song. This is probably one of the best covers of a song I've ever heard. Go ahead and give it a listen. Oh, btw, the video itself is kinda odd . . . what do you do I guess?



All around me are familiar faces
Worn out places
Worn out faces
Bright and early for the daily races
Going no where
Going no where
And the tears are filling up their glasses
No expression
No expression
And in my head I want to drown my sorrow
No tomorrow
No tomorrow

And I find it kind of funny
I find it kind of sad
The dreams in which I'm dying
Are the best I've ever had
And I find it hard to tell you
I find it hard to take
When people run in circles
It's a very, very... mad world... mad world...

Children waiting for the day they feel good
Happy birthday
Happy birthday
Made to feel the way that every child should
Sit and listen
Sit and listen
Went to school and I was very nervous
No one knew me
No one knew me
Hello teacher tell me what's my lesson
Look right through me
Look right through me

And I find it kind of funny
I find it kind of sad
The dreams in which I'm dying
Are the best I've ever had
I find it hard to tell you
I find it hard to take
When people run in circles
It's a very, very... mad world... mad world...
Mad World
Mad World

What a mad world we do live in. So many things try and cut us down. There are so many people who think that they're better than we are. So many song lyrics that we can connect to, "Whataya want from me?" (P!nk and Adam Lambert). So many children's stories we connect to, "What Was I Scared Of?" (Dr. Seuss) tells the experience of a character who repeatedly meets up with an empty pair of pale-green pants. The character is initially afraid of the pants. However when he screams for help and the pants also start to cry, he realizes that "They were just as scared as I!" After that the empty pants becomes good friends with the narrator. Now the boy and the pants are no longer afraid of each other.

This story teaches the lesson that you should not be afraid of things with which you are not familiar. How often are we scared of just going for it?

How often do we say we can't do something? How often do we short ourselves and our own abilities? We are all unique. Children of a God in Heaven who loves us with all of his heart. As Ethel Waters said, "I know I'm somebody 'Cause God don't make no junk." My posts lately haven't been too optimistic. Then something got to me as I laid in bed today sick, God has a plan for me. And even if I feel it's tough now, I'm going to be strong. He's going to help me get through any trials. One of my favorite quotes comes from the main character of It's Another Wonderful Life, George Bailey, it says this,

"Just a minute - just a minute. Now, hold on, Mr. Potter. You're right when you say my father was no businessman. I know that. Why he ever started this cheap, penny-ante Building and Loan, I'll never know. But neither you nor anyone else can say anything against his character, because his whole life was - why, in the twenty-five years since he and Uncle Billy started this thing, he never once thought of himself. Isn't that right, Uncle Billy? He didn't save enough money to send Harry to school, let alone me. But he did help a few people get out of your slums, Mr. Potter, and what's wrong with that? Why - here, you're all businessmen here. Doesn't it make them better citizens? Doesn't it make them better customers? You - you said - what'd you say a minute ago? They had to wait and save their money before they even ought to think of a decent home. Wait? Wait for what? Until their children grow up and leave them? Until they're so old and broken down that they... Do you know how long it takes a working man to save five thousand dollars? Just remember this, Mr. Potter, that this rabble you're talking about... they do most of the working and paying and living and dying in this community. Well, is it too much to have them work and pay and live and die in a couple of decent rooms and a bath? Anyway, my father didn't think so. People were human beings to him. But to you, a warped, frustrated old man, they're cattle. Well, in my book he died a much richer man than you'll ever be."

I don't know what to say to compliment that quote. I think it's genius. People are human beings. Each and every one of us. George Bailey knew what he was talking about.

Later, the angel Clarence says this wise saying, "Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. When he isn't around he leaves an awful hole, doesn't he?" He also says, "Remember, George: no man is a failure who has friends."

No man!! No man he says, any one who has a single friend in this world, they're not a failure.

I'm kinda rambling now . . . so I hope this post makes sense by the end! My point is . . . we live in a mad world. It's hard, it's crazy, but it's worth it!! It's going to be so worth it. You mean something! God has a plan for YOU!! Maybe we are just "normal" "average" people to the world. But not to somebody you're not. Someone thinks of you before they fall to sleep. Despite this mad world we live in, you can make a difference. You're not just a person. You're somebody, and you're loved in ways that can't be known.

May peace, love and laughter fill your heart.
Bless you,
A Little Bird

Gratitude.

With it being Thanksgiving week here in the US I'm going to try and see a light though at the end of this long bleak tunnel . . .

I'm so grateful that I have the ability to see. I was thinking about back in the day when they didn't have contacts, and even farther back when they didn't have glasses. How did they manage? I run into walls when I don't have my contacts in! I'm so grateful for the technology that we have.

I'm also so thankful for the internet, I know that sounds like a horrible thing to say, but you can learn how to do almost anything on the internet! I've learned how to do makeup, I've learned how to cook certain things, I've even learned that coffee grounds make a good facial mask! It's absolutely amazing.

I'm grateful for music. I'm grateful that I have talents in music and am able to sing and play the piano. I'm grateful for the opportunity to express the way I feel through music and to be able to listen to music that uplifts and inspires as well as helps me understand, it does get better.

I'm also grateful for makeup, however cliche and cheesy that sounds. It is another way of expressing how I feel. If I'm happy, it's easy to use pink and green and yellow. When I'm a little bit more down in the dumps, I opt for the black, blue traditional silver smoky eye.

I'm grateful for school. Despite all the troubles and heartache it sometimes brings, I love learning, I love being able to learn about things I've never even imagined existed.

I also need to say how grateful I am to my family and friends. Despite how difficult it is to be around them sometimes, when it comes down to it, I know that I still love them. And it's good that they haven't given up on me especially since I'm a stubborn mule when it comes to being independent.

I'm grateful for my trials, because despite how hard they are right now, I'm going to make it. I'm going to get there someday. They say "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." I sure hope so. Because I'm going to be one heck of a strong girl when this is all through.

To those of you who don't have cause to be grateful for your family, because of abuse or whatever, thank your parents for your life. Your mother carried you 9 months (give or take) so you could have an opportunity to live. If you don't have any friends, go make one, that's my challenge for you. For those that are homeless, be grateful that you have whatever provisions you do have. That's what this holiday season is all about. Being grateful for the things that we do have. Sure, when Christmas rolls around we have the present shopping and the parties and the neighbor gifts or whatever, but let's all take a little time to reflect on the simple things in life. For they are the most important. And no matter how much we want to take our cell phones or computers or video games into the next life, they can't come with us. Only our knowledge and relationships carry on.

May peace, love and happiness find you all.
God bless,
-A Little Bird

Taylor Swift's Speak Now Review

 Initial thoughts with the Speak Now album by Taylor Swift . . . It's definitely my favorite of her albums!! It hits close to home. It's touching, it's refreshing, it's captivating, Swift has out done herself this time. Raw emotion lace each song making it personal. I'm going to be making a video review soon, so that should be up, but I wanted to post pics before then. Enjoy!!

Freaking Gorgeous

http://ithinkyourefreakinggorgeous.com/

Teenagers

Adolescents, more commonly referred to as teenagers, are the future of our countries and we should be excited about it! Well, at least, that's what about half of the adult population believes. The other half tend to lean towards the, “Teenagers are awful scumbags just waiting to kill their parents!” Hmm, I don't think I agree with either of those analysis'. And I am a teenager, so my opinion has to count for something right?

Before the term “adolescence” was coined, there was a “rite of passage” ceremony, or some other service that distinguished childhood from adulthood. The moment the child became and adult, they had responsibilities they had to take care of, possibly even a wife or husband that needed attention, there was no room for the drama that is teenage-hood now.

Teenagers are always thinking of the questions, “Who am I? What am I good for?” If a teen doesn't think that they are good for anything, they probably will tend to lean towards suicide as a better option than existence. I'm sure that is why suicide is one of the leading causes of death between the ages of thirteen and twenty-one. Who am I? A question seemingly easy to most adults, I am a farmer, I am an accountant, I am a beautician, I am a mom. Teens don't have such an easy answer, we don't have careers to define us, we have our school year. I am a sophomore, I am a junior, a senior? Or even, I am a McDonald's hamburger flipper. I don't think so. It's not the same. There are so many high school students, we all just kind of flow together. That's where cliques and dressing come in.

Cliques are a way of telling us who we are. They give us rules to follow, standards, a certain way to speak, dress, etc. To us, not everyone appears to be in our clique and so we feel significant, different from everyone else. Like we have a purpose, and that someone cares about us. The way we dress is a good indication of what kind of clique we are in, and/or the way we wish other people to see us in the world.

Teens need to feel love and acceptance from those around them. Parents, teachers, church leaders, friends, extended family, it all matters. There is unconditional love which we must receive from our parents and extended family, though we know and feel a certain responsibility when it comes to having love and trust from teachers, classmates and religious teachers. Responsibility and trust are very important at this age because if we don't feel we are given enough trust or independence we feel inadequate, stupid, worthless, etc. Then again, we also are still kids, we don't like to have mounds of responsibility thrown upon us. We need an adults help when we get into sticky situations, but I'd suggest to parents, that you allowed us to come to you for help, instead of you coming to us. We tend to have a similar way of thinking as a three year old, we feel hurt when we aren't allowed to try and figure out messes ourselves. If you feel the adolescent needs your help, kindly ask them if they'd like it, and if they don't, back off for a few days. If they solve the problem on their own, that's fantastic! If they don't, casually mention it in a private setting so that they feel comfortable talking with you if that's their desire.

Teens are not going to fix their countries problems any more than adults can now. Yes, we are the future of our country, yes we care, but no, we're unlikely to fix problems that have lasted thirty plus years. Then again, we aren't dirt bags, we aren't all a bunch of kids running around on the weekends aiming to get drunk or stoned. The reality is, the only reason why most of the population believes that's how we are is because those are the kind of teens you see on the news. You're never going to hear about an average teen who got a 3.4 GPA, you're only going to hear about the ones that throw turkeys out of windows on the freeway, you're only going to hear about the ones that do community service, play an instrument, sing, act AND maintain a 4.0 GPA. To tell you the truth, we're not like that. Some, but very few, are like that. We're kids, we want to have fun, we love life, we do our best in things we care about, but that's all. We want you to respect us, let us have some freedom with responsibility. Don't treat us like we're imbeciles or even like we're going to change the world, because most likely, we're not.

Captain Jack Sparrow to the rescue as Johnny Depp arrives at Greenwich school | News

Captain Jack Sparrow to the rescue as Johnny Depp arrives at Greenwich school | News

This is the bomb! Johnny Depp you've just become my hero!

No Excuses

I don't have many excuses for not putting up a meaningful post today, except that I'm exhausted!! Emotionally, mentally and physically. I need to be getting to bed earlier. So . . . my advice to you is, early to bed, early to rise! I'm having a really hard time with English this year, I've NEVER had a hard time with this kind of class before. But for some reason this year . . . I'm thinking it's all of the homework and projects . . . sigh. Today I took quite a long nap and felt a little bit better. Later I went to my lil sis's band concert and saw some of my old friends that went to a different high school then me, so that was wonderful! but, now, here it is about nine thirty and I'm exhausted again. I can NOT wait until fall break next week, I really need to catch up on some things. I hope you forgive me for not putting something useful up today! But a heads up on the next post, it'll be on the Nature vs Nurture debate. Your thoughts? Well, I'll tell you mine soon. Love you guys!


Song of the day:

Nature vs Nurture

People are born certain ways. They are born having characteristics of shyness, selfishness, intelligence, etc. However, our society contributes to the way that child is going to act in the long run. Our culture suggests that men are to be more strong, a protector, and shouldn’t cry. Women are supposed to be either the perky, bubbly, ditzy kind of girl or the shy doesn’t say as much woman. Not all men and women are like that initially when they are born though. I’d say about half of the people in our society aren’t acting the way they’d feel most comfortable with. Men feel that in order to be a real man they can’t be shy, or work at home, or even have fears. Women feel that they must act a certain way to be accepted, it’s getting a little bit better in the female society with women’s rights activists but there is still an underlying sense of women being out of place in the working field.

“Flanagan (2002) explored the Minnesota study in which a set of twins was raised separately. In one case, a set of identical twins was raised apart, known as the Jim twins. They did not meet until they were almost forty and had many similarities even though they were raised apart. ‘The Minnesota twin study concluded that on multiple measures of personality and temperament, occupational and leisure-time interests and social attitudes, mono-zygotic twins reared apart are about as similar as are mono-zygotic twins reared together’” (www.associatedcontent.com, The Childhood Development Nature vs Nurture Debate Continues, Friendly Teacher).

There are some things I believe all people are born with though, such as happiness and goodness. Nobody is born sad and nobody is born evil. Through personal experiences, one is going to either become sad or evil or stay good and happy. If someone is abused that could contribute to later sadness or depression. The same applies for those who were not disciplined as a child. Those who are not disciplined are more likely to become criminals, or get into other trouble with the law. I don’t think anyone has ever seen an evil baby. Most babies, if not all, are happy and will stay that way until their experiences alter their perspective in life.

Several years ago, scientists were fond of the idea that only one of the two options was an answer to the dilemma. In recent years, scientists have found that both play significant parts, they’re now deciding on which factor plays a more important role in how that child is going to turn out. Personally, I think environment determines how the person is going to act in later years, and genetics determines how the child is going to act in younger years. Personally, I think environment determines how the person is going to act in later years, and genetics determines how the child is going to act in younger years. When a child is young they don’t have the experiences and social pressures that an adult has and so they feel completely free to act as they wish. Whereas adults are expected to act the ways society presents them to act.

In conclusion, nature and nurturing both play significant roles in how a child is going to turn out. Depending on our experiences, our minds and roles will mature as will our thought processes. If we’re born shy and not taught to be out going we’ll be shy our whole lives. If we’re immature and not taught to take responsibility we will be immature our whole lives.

Holes, Cliffs and Fences

Recently I fell into a hole. There was a cover on it making it appear steady. I casually was walking when I stepped inside. Shock over came me and I quickly pulled out my leg. Unfortunately my leg became extremely bruised. Yellowing and purple marks were scattered all up my leg, it wasn't pretty, plus there was some scratches that added to the whole mess. Three weeks later I still can not feel a section of my leg, if you were to come up and touch it I wouldn't have any idea unless I saw you put your finger there!

"Now what does this all have to do with our lives? I mean, it's all fine and dandy that you fell in a hole and can't feel a part of your leg, but how is this applicable to me?" you say.

Occasionally we fall into emotional holes or fall of cliffs. Sometimes we can't get up by ourselves. Luckily when I fell into the hole, I had some people nearby that helped pull me out, this is like those people that help us out as of our emotional holes, our supports - friends and family. We all get depressed and feel down, it's a natural human emotion. But it is unnatural for that emotion to start affecting normal life. You should be able to bounce back and get out of your pothole. If you're so depressed you aren't getting out of bed to eat, to brush your teeth or get dressed you might want to consider seeing a therapist.

However, there are ways that we can prevent falling into holes or falling off of cliffs. We can put up fences. Fences are like our standards, if we know where we stand on certain issues it won't be a problem when we are faced with the temptation preventing later heartache and depression. If you know that you are never going to smoke a cigarette, when someone offers you one, you won't be tempted to take it. If you know you're not going to kiss, hold hands, or whatever on the first date than you won't have as hard of a time saying no if the choice arises.

A Fence or an Ambulance Joseph Malins (1895) - a poem about prevention - 'Twas a dangerous cliff, as they freely confessed, Though to walk near its crest was so pleasant; But over its terrible edge there had slipped A duke and full many a peasant. So the people said something would have to be done, But their projects did not at all tally; Some said, "Put a fence 'round the edge of the cliff," Some, "An ambulance down in the valley."

But the cry for the ambulance carried the day, For it spread through the neighboring city; A fence may be useful or not, it is true, But each heart became full of pity For those who slipped over the dangerous cliff; And the dwellers in highway and alley Gave pounds and gave pence, not to put up a fence, But an ambulance down in the valley.

"For the cliff is all right, if your careful," they said, "And, if folks even slip and are dropping, It isn't the slipping that hurts them so much As the shock down below when they're stopping." So day after day, as these mishaps occurred, Quick forth would those rescuers sally To pick up the victims who fell off the cliff, With their ambulance down in the valley.

Then an old sage remarked: "It's a marvel to me That people give far more attention To repairing results than to stopping the cause, When they'd much better aim at prevention. Let us stop at its source all this mischief," cried he, "Come, neighbors and friends, let us rally; If the cliff we will fence, we might almost dispense With the ambulance down in the valley."

"Oh he's a fanatic," the others rejoined, "Dispense with the ambulance? Never! He'd dispense with all charities, too, if he could; No! No! We'll support them forever. Aren't we picking up folks just as fast as they fall? And shall this man dictate to us? Shall he? Why should people of sense stop to put up a fence, While the ambulance works in the valley?"

But the sensible few, who are practical too, Will not bear with such nonsense much longer; They believe that prevention is better than cure, And their party will soon be the stronger. Encourage them then, with your purse, voice, and pen, And while other philanthropists dally, They will scorn all pretense, and put up a stout fence On the cliff that hangs over the valley.

Better guide well the young than reclaim them when old, For the voice of true wisdom is calling. "To rescue the fallen is good, but 'tis best To prevent other people from falling." Better close up the source of temptation and crime Than deliver from dungeon or galley; Better put a strong fence 'round the top of the cliff Than an ambulance down in the valley.f

Healthy Relationships

What makes a relationship healthy? How can I tell if I am in an unhealthy relationship? If I am in an unhealthy relationship, how do I fix it?

Great questions!

Characteristics of a healthy relationship include good communication skills. Persons in a good relationship take the time to genuinely listen to each other, listening with their heart not only their ears. They ask questions, they share information, they don't hold grudges. Other key factors consist of dependability, being realistic in expectations as well as flexibility. Arguing in a relationship isn't necessarily unhealthy, one thing to keep in mind, however, don't assume how the other person is feeling! Facial expressions aren't always an automatic door into how the person is feeling. Instead, ask questions and invite them to share how they're feeling, as well as not holding back your own feelings.

The Art of Listening:
Listen to understand
Pay attention to more than just the words coming out of their mouth
Try to put yourself in the speaker's situation
Put aside your own opinions for the time being
Show interest and empathy
DO NOT interrupt
Clear up misunderstandings before you being your own talking

"I" Messages:
An "I" message is a wonderful way to communicate! The basic format for this statement would be . . .
1. I feel . . . . State how you feel
2. When you . . . . Name the behavior
3. Because . . . . State the reason
4. I like it when . . . . Name the behavior you want from that person
This format can be used for both positive and negative reactions!
When someone is not nice to you, you can use this format to explain to them the problem.
"I feel violated when you enter my room without my permission because I feel you don't respect my privacy. I like it when you ask me before you go in my room."
Using this form I've been getting a lot more positive results in my conversations and life. Particularly with my brother, he respects and understands what I'm saying. Sarcasm is completely eliminated and not an issue anymore! You can also use this way of communicating just as easily when you're pleased with the way someone's treating you.
"I feel happy when you invite me to hang out because you seem to like me. I like it when we're considerate and friendly with each other."

A good relationship will only be brought to pass when good communication is used consistently! If I was to tell you something I thought was important to my life, I'd want you to listen right? However, often times we don't want to listen to what the other person is saying because we don't find it interesting. Does this sound familiar? Parents! When your child is saying something about their day, (especially when you've asked them about it!!) you had better listen! What your child is saying is particularly important to them and they want your help or at least a listening ear. Kids! Be compassionate, your parents have a lot on their mind and they care about you but occasionally they have other things they need to tend to. In order to make sure talking to them is convenient you could consider asking them for an "appointment" or just a time where you can talk to them with their undivided attention.

Domestic Violence Cycle:
There are three typical phases to the domestic violence cycle.
Tension Building - Insults, threats, yelling
Violent Episode - Hitting, pushing, throwing objects
Honeymoon Phase - Apologies, promises, gifts
Any of this sound familiar? It is likely you are in an abusive relationship with your significant other, you deserve a healthy relationship! Do NOT settle for what this person is giving you. Either seek marriage counseling or get out! The average victim will leave the abuser 7-8 times before making the final break! Don't let that become you, you deserve so much better.
Remember, you CAN leave a relationship!!

Teen Dating Violence:
Did you know that a teen can get a restraining order with out their parents knowledge?
16 to 25 year olds are at the highest risk of dating violence
About 70% of sexual assault cases involve date rape
1/3 high school girls have experienced dating violence

Recognizing signs:
Calls you names in front of people
Becomes more and more controlling
Makes excuses for the behavior (often the excuse is your action)
Loose their temper breaking things, hitting things when mad
Frequently cancels plans at the last minute
Demanding where you have been, who you have been with, what you have been doing



What you deserve-
Being listened to seriously
Treated with respect
Feeling safe
Not abused emotionally, sexually, or physically
You can leave any relationship or fall out of love!

Dating Skills-
Don't base your self esteem on your ability to get a date
Ask questions and get facts before accepting a date
Don't hesitate to call your parents if you need help
Communicate your plans with your parents
Stick with your commitments and don't change your plans if someone "better" comes along
Be honest and kind when you turn someone down for a date
Be okay with staying home when you don't have a date

You have the right to a good healthy relationship! Let's work on our communication, recognize the signs of abuse and make our world a better place. God bless you.

I'll Stand By You

Luke 10
  25 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?

  26 He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?

  27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.

  28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.

  29 But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbor?

  30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

  31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

  32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.

  33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,

  34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

  35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

  36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?

  37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise. 

 May we be a good Samaritan in our own lives, comfort those that stand in need of comfort, mourn with those that mourn and serve the broken hearted. God bless you.

Casting Stones

Why is it that we have the idea in our heads that we must judge one another? Everyone on this earth has at some point made a mistake, whether it is something small such as forgetting to mop the floor on a Saturday or something pretty big such as killing another human being and everything in between. When we make mistakes we are ashamed of, naturally as human beings we want to hide it. We do everything in our power to not feel the humiliation that ultimately comes of the word getting out. Human nature is to worry about what other people are thinking about and saying about you.

Recently, I made some mistakes and did some things I am not proud of. I did my best to keep it a secret, but . . . word got out. I'm not going to bore you with the details, because this blog post is not meant to be a pity party, it's meant to be enlightening. Opening people's eyes to the fact that what they say does hurt. You might think you're saying it to only one person, but one person leads to another person, and so on eventually reaching the person the gossip and stories are about. That's exactly what happened in my situation.

I hate to say it, but suicide was an option in my mind. I couldn't figure out how I was going to get out of my hurt. I've tried to be good, but no one's perfect. I couldn't figure out how I could rebuild my goody-goody-two-shoes reputation back when I had been so hideously hurt and defiled. My mind was a dark abyss of despair. Nightmares were all I had in my sleep. I contemplated knives, pills, burning . . . so many horrible ways to end it all.

Then one day I woke up and it hit me. God, Jesus Christ and I know what happened, we know that I am beautiful, I have been forgiven, They know my heart and They love me. Someone who had made a mistake! Christ atoned for our sins so that we can be free from a guilt so heavy it leads some to suicide. It's the same for each and every one of us, we have a work to do here on this earth, and no one will be able to do is as well as you can.

As of now, I feel healthy again. Again the only reason I'm telling you my story, is to help you understand, contemplate and realize, what you say makes a difference! I don't want to force my beliefs on you, but I feel that in order for our society to function well, we must understand our impact on other people. When you're feeling down, make it a point to serve, compliment and help someone in need. It'll help that person as well as helping you know how special YOU are and how much of a difference you can be in the world. Ghandi said, "Be the change you wish to see in the world," I challenge you to do just that! You can make a difference, you! Please, this is my plea, don't hurt others. Think about what you're going to say, before you say it. Could this potentially hurt someone? If yes, then don't say it.

In conclusion, I'd like to share some of my favorite scripture from John section 8, I hope you make a point in your life to consciously think about what you're going to do, say, etc. It's not our place to judge. Only God has the authority to do that.

Who are we to judge someone when we, ourselves, walk in imperfect ways?

John 8
1 Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.

2 And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.

3 And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,

4 They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.

5 Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?

6 This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.

7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.

8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.

9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.

10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?

11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.

Morals, Making out, Motherhood and Mankind

1st Morals
Scenario # 1
A woman was near death from a unique kind of cancer. There is a drug that might save her. The drug costs $4,000 per dosage. The sick woman's husband, Heinz, went to everyone he knew to borrow the money and tried every legal means, but he could only get together about $2,000. He asked the doctor scientist who discovered the drug for a discount or let him pay later. But the doctor scientist refused.
Should Heinz break into the laboratory to steal the drug for his wife? Why or why not?

Scenario # 2
Heinz broke into the laboratory and stole the drug. The next day, the newspapers reported the break-in and theft. Brown, a police officer and a friend of Heinz remembered seeing Heinz last evening, behaving suspiciously near the laboratory. Later that night, he saw Heinz running away from the laboratory.
Should Brown report what he saw? Why or why not?

Scenario # 3
Officer Brown reported what he saw. Heinz was arrested and brought to court. If convicted, he faces up to two years' jail. Heinz was found guilty.
Should the judge sentence Heinz to prison? Why or why not?

Hmmmm, I have no idea!! Those are some tough questions. What do you guys think?

2nd Making out
Making out in public . . . appropriate? I think not. A quick peck on the cheek is one thing but eating each other's faces off seems to be quite another! When you get to the point of open mouth, using tongue, whatever, in public it has gone too far. It might be fine in private, but when other people are feeling uncomfortable because of the affection it's out of control. Again, PDA (public display of affection) doesn't bother me, but PDT (public display of tongue) lets just say I'm a little appalled.

3rd Motherhood
Motherhood, yah . . . I'm a mama . . . of an egg . . . no joke. I've been carrying around an egg for my psychology class, we're studying development. Of course I thought this project was going to be tons of fun! Easy and a great experience. Ha!! I've never been proven wrong so quickly. Within an hour of carrying that stinken egg around (I named it Nikki) I was ready to fling it at a wall! After a week of hauling it around, receiving snickering glances and even pointed fingers I was completely through! The day I was supposed to turn my egg in, you'll never believe what happened. It cracked. No joke, the day of!! I was going to get 5 extra credit points if I hadn't had to "adopt" a new egg from the refrigerator. Luckily, the egg wasn't too damaged, and I believed it could be saved until class. Oh boy, this is where I get mad! Guess whose psychology teacher isn't there that day! Guess whose psychology teacher is in fact at a cross country race 50 some odd miles away! Yah . . . mine. That egg hasn't seen the light of day since. it's been shoved in my locker awaiting the day it's puny life can finally be ended by going down the garbage disposal. I'm so glad I'm not a mom yet. and even when I am . . . I'll probably only have two kids. maybe three. tops.

4th Mankind
Kind of a broad topic, but I found the "M" theme kinda fun :D Anyways, the things I wanted to talk about mankind surround the subject of gossip and the evils that come of it. "What you have not witnessed with your eyes do not witness with your mouth," says a Jewish proverb, may I add onto that, however, even if you do see something with your eyes if it could potentially hurt someone keep your freaken mouth shut!! Yah, I'm mad. In our neighborhood a bunch of young ladies are finding it necessary to spread gossip about other girls. Why do we do this to ourselves? What good is going to come from gossip? Once people find out the gossip is not true they're going to think only less of the one who was spreading it! People's feelings are hurt, trust and friendship broken, beyond repair. Gossip is vile. Often times we don't even realize we're gossiping.

Does any of this sound familiar?

A fine young man had been slandered by those gathered together that evening, accused of the serious charge of immorality. He was completely innocent, but the great damage that had been done by “those whom he counted as his friends” would not be easily repaired. Who could measure the near destruction of this good soul? Who could measure the impact on the neighborhood and friendships, as its fellowship was eroded? Who could ever undo the evil that had affected hundreds of lives?

It had happened so easily. It began with simple words like—

“Did you hear … ?”

“Mrs. Jones said …”

“I have heard that he told her …”

“I am not sure about this, but …”

“Mr. Sanchez’s cousin said that he thought …”

“I don’t want to say anything bad, but …”

“If you won’t repeat this, I guess I could tell you that …”

Do you see how easily gossip can be vicious? Do you see how hurtful and cruel it can be against someone? People with good reputations seem to be the most easily targeted, as if those around them have to prove that they aren't as perfect or as good as they seem. I don't want to sound like a preacher, but I want you to recognize that things that you say DO have an affect on people. Gossip and hurtful words contribute to SUICIDE! Suicide, a dark empty pit of despair one only will choose to cascade down if they feel all their options have run out. Instead of hurtful words, try to say kind, uplifting words, words that will make someone feel good about themselves! Words that will put a smile on someone's face.

If you don't have something nice to say, why say it at all?

"Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing's going to get better. It's not" -Dr. Seuss

And to those of you who have been victims of this hideous hurt, I say, hold your head high! You know who you are, you know where you stand, you know that despite what anyone says about you, nothing changes the marvelous person you are. Despite one's beliefs, it will never change fact.

“If you wish to travel far and fast, travel light. Take off all of your envies, jealousies, unforgiveness, selfishness and fear”
- CESARE PAVESE

Halloween & Camera Sadness

Tears!! I normally love Halloween and watching all the tutorials for costumes on youtube is so fun!! But I miss my camera really bad and wish I could be doing tutorials as well!! Darn those stinken people taking care of my camera, give it back soon!! I need my baby back!! Anybody empathize? Ughh, as soon as I get that camera back I'm going to be doing tutorials like crazy! :)

Loves you guys, hope you're having an awesome day!!
-Haylee

Contacting Me

Obviously, you're at my blog :D so you know that's one way to contact me! Good for you :) So here's a list of a few other ways you can contact me!

Email: littlebirdsconfessions@gmail.com

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/PrincessPingo
http://www.youtube.com/user/MizLittleBird

Twitter: http://twitter.com/PrincessPingo

I hope these locations help you to get to know me a little bit better as I email regularly and am trying to get in the habit of twittering!

<3,
Haylee

Hahaha, can this get much more embarassing?

Wowsa!

It has been awhile has it not? Maybe I should give this blog a bit of attention . . . :) Anyone for that idea? Quick updates on life :D I'M GOING TO BE A SOPHOMORE IN 2 DAYS!!! Anyone else a little bit scared? :D haha, me in that kind of power . . . or lack there of . . . back at the bottom of the food chain, I swear, haven't I suffered enough? ;) lol. I'm just kidding. High school is going to be fantastic.

A Days :D (Mmmm, if I can remember! :P)
Seminary
Psychology
Choir
Spanish

B Days :D
Algebra 2
Health
Physics
Honors English

Can I just say this year is going to be great? :D

Okay, back to non school related stuffs :) and I really need to use less emoticons!! :P oh good, there's another one. haha. Mmmm, where to go with this nonsensical post . . . I suppose I could take it to . . . Music? There we go, favorites!!
Kelly Clarkson - Miss Independent
Michael Buble - Everything
Hey Monday - I Don't Wanna Dance

Check 'em out if you want to listen to some brilliance! Gotta love music :) Speaking of which, my piano skills have been coming along quite nicely :) I also underwent a cleaning project, the little attic house-ish area is now clean!! :) (this is relevant because the piano is now in that room! haha) It has also become my filming studio for my makeup tutorials. But I'm a little sad :( my camera is having issues!! Why, I say!! Why?? :'( it's sad. anyways . . . I think I'm done babbling. Have an absolutely fantastic day, night, morning, etc :)

Loves to you!!
-Haylee <3

My Bubba!! =D

She's adorable :D I loves her muchly.

Seafoam

This is my makeup as of today!! Aqua Mist is in the inner corner, (light blue) Seafoam is in the outer corner (Greenish blue) and Serene (purple) is in the crease. All of these were bought from BFTE Cosmetics. Hope you like it!!

Limes and Plums!!

This is my makeup that I wore today :) it made me smile and I had to post it.
I am wearing Envy (BFTE Cosmetics) all over the lid. And Panurple (also BFTE Cosmetics) in the crease. For a brow hilight I used Whisper (you guessed it BFTE Cosmetics, haha)