First let me ask you this. Is there such a thing as being too self-aware?
The answer is yes. yes there certainly is.
I'm sure its a gift somehow, and potentially I will learn how to regulate it soon, but when I can't even make my head stop spinning long enough to decide what to write in my silly blog, I think that there is definitely such a thing as being too introspective and too self-aware. Yes. Final answer.
Also FYI - I remixed the 25 things about me... its way funnier now. For those of you who read this from your email... click on THIS to get to the actual blog.
That preface aside (shout out to Lori - co-queen of the preface), hello! It is Sunday, and I do love Sundays. In the way of an update, I am currently working hard to acclimate to something of a grown-up schedule, with stuff going on all day long starting at (GASP) 8 am. What is that? I'm ok with the 8's, really, its the 7's I have a problem with. Having to be anywhere that causes me to have to wake up/leave the house in the 7's (or dare I say it - the 6's) - well I think that's just silly. So I'm busy all the time, which is actually kind of a nice change. Between being at school or reading for school, interning and counseling kids at Denver Christian, and trying on clothes I don't need at JCrew because no one actually shops anymore so thats what I do instead of sell - I am a busy woman. Not to mention I've been nannying fairly consisently the past few weeks. By Friday, I just need a nap. And maybe a hug.
Really, there is not much else to report. Today has been a pretty good day. I have to admit that it's been awhile since I felt really jazzy and joyful, and today in a kind of muted and commonplace way, I do. God reminded me today (perhaps even really began to teach me) that He is good, loving, and worthy of praise. I don't mean to sound trite, but even though life hasn't been quite what I'd like it to be lately, even in the times when I feel the most like crap, God is still God. God is good even when I feel like I can't quite see it. Today I'm finding rest in that. And being thankful for the people who are in my life who teach me these things whether they know it or not. I think this is a good start.
"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior." - Habakkuk 3:17-18
February 8, 2009
February 2, 2009
wasting perfectly good mondays - remix
I remixed the 25 random things list for Facebook and I think this list is funnier... so I'm re-posting. because I can.
1. I scored a 30/30 on the extroversion scale on the MBTI
2. I think my 4-yr-old nephew Timmy is the funniest person I know
3. when I was about 8, at least once a day I would flip my hair to one side and hairspray it (like DJ Tanner), then smash my nose with my finger (like some girl at school), look in the mirror, and wish that God would make me look just like that. please don't ask me why.
4. my biggest fears are Roombas, people who sleepwalk, turning into a debbie downer, Drop Dead Fred, heights (recovering), and walking into the Men's room on accident.
5. when I was little, there was a time when I was under the impression that male private parts were detachable.
6. I'm super impatient and appreciate immediate gratification
7. someday I'm going to get a tat and it's going to be awesome.
8. I miss being in choirs and having an excuse to sing on a daily basis. as a result, I hope to one day (sooner than later) belong to some kind of adult show choir
9. I think snot is the absolute 100% grossest thing on the entire planet
10. I wholeheartedly prefer real, printed pictures to digital ones
11. I am really good with names and faces. so much so that sometimes I pretend not to know people because I'm afraid it will make them feel bad for not remembering the one time we met 12 years ago. or they'll just think I'm creepy.
12. I have something ridiculous like 40 first cousins.
13. I have a blog. which I think makes me a blogger.
14. sometimes (more often than I'd like) I snort when I laugh.
15. I only recently retired/stopped sleeping with "roadkill rabbit," which was a stuffed bunny who slept under my head from age 5 to about... 22. and I mostly did it just because people kept making fun of me... not because I got mature or anything.
16. I paint my nails at least two times a week. I find it therapeutic. also I really can't stand chipped nail polish.
17. in middle school I collected X-Men cards because my best friend was a boy and convinced me that was something I should invest in. also, I collected pogs. also, I am a sucker.
18. I love TV shows from the 90's... my so called life, dawson's creek, party of 5...
19. I think heaven will be full of breakfast tacos from Panchitos. or Taco Taco. either way.
20. I am writing this note in tandem with Beckie Johns at the Panera in Aspen Grove instead of studying.
21. I don't like Oprah. not even a little bit.
22. I'm a little bit good at doing voices. however, I reserve the right not to perform if you ask me to... so... I'm just warning you
23. car washes make me really nervous. here's why: the other day I accidentally went through twice because I got stuck in the loop and couldn't get out any other way than to go through it again. true story.
24. I air-write a lot. so, if I'm holding a pen I will write in the air whatever is being said or what I am thinking. if I don't have a pen, I'll write on my thumb with my forefinger. people have started noticing... and I'm trying hard to stop. because its a little bit weird.
25. I love Jesus... but I drink a little. does that count as two?
1. I scored a 30/30 on the extroversion scale on the MBTI
2. I think my 4-yr-old nephew Timmy is the funniest person I know
3. when I was about 8, at least once a day I would flip my hair to one side and hairspray it (like DJ Tanner), then smash my nose with my finger (like some girl at school), look in the mirror, and wish that God would make me look just like that. please don't ask me why.
4. my biggest fears are Roombas, people who sleepwalk, turning into a debbie downer, Drop Dead Fred, heights (recovering), and walking into the Men's room on accident.
5. when I was little, there was a time when I was under the impression that male private parts were detachable.
6. I'm super impatient and appreciate immediate gratification
7. someday I'm going to get a tat and it's going to be awesome.
8. I miss being in choirs and having an excuse to sing on a daily basis. as a result, I hope to one day (sooner than later) belong to some kind of adult show choir
9. I think snot is the absolute 100% grossest thing on the entire planet
10. I wholeheartedly prefer real, printed pictures to digital ones
11. I am really good with names and faces. so much so that sometimes I pretend not to know people because I'm afraid it will make them feel bad for not remembering the one time we met 12 years ago. or they'll just think I'm creepy.
12. I have something ridiculous like 40 first cousins.
13. I have a blog. which I think makes me a blogger.
14. sometimes (more often than I'd like) I snort when I laugh.
15. I only recently retired/stopped sleeping with "roadkill rabbit," which was a stuffed bunny who slept under my head from age 5 to about... 22. and I mostly did it just because people kept making fun of me... not because I got mature or anything.
16. I paint my nails at least two times a week. I find it therapeutic. also I really can't stand chipped nail polish.
17. in middle school I collected X-Men cards because my best friend was a boy and convinced me that was something I should invest in. also, I collected pogs. also, I am a sucker.
18. I love TV shows from the 90's... my so called life, dawson's creek, party of 5...
19. I think heaven will be full of breakfast tacos from Panchitos. or Taco Taco. either way.
20. I am writing this note in tandem with Beckie Johns at the Panera in Aspen Grove instead of studying.
21. I don't like Oprah. not even a little bit.
22. I'm a little bit good at doing voices. however, I reserve the right not to perform if you ask me to... so... I'm just warning you
23. car washes make me really nervous. here's why: the other day I accidentally went through twice because I got stuck in the loop and couldn't get out any other way than to go through it again. true story.
24. I air-write a lot. so, if I'm holding a pen I will write in the air whatever is being said or what I am thinking. if I don't have a pen, I'll write on my thumb with my forefinger. people have started noticing... and I'm trying hard to stop. because its a little bit weird.
25. I love Jesus... but I drink a little. does that count as two?
January 28, 2009
on character flaws
I was just struck by one in particular, for me, anyway. I can be really oblivious. This, ladies and gentlemen, nearly drove Mme. Tracy INSANE while I lived with her. I honestly don't think it's laziness (you'll understand when I explain) although Trace might argue otherwise. I think it is pure, unadulterated (just go with it) obliviousness. Lord knows I am the farthest thing from type A anyone ever saw, and maybe this is part of that.
Here's what made me think of it.
There is a shampoo bottle on the floor of our bathroom. It is empty. The other day, in the shower, I used the last drop - and I tried to aim it out of the shower into the trash. I missed. Since then, it has been lying helplessly on the floor of the bathroom. Here is why I say I am not lazy - I haven't noticed it. I remember the moment when I tossed and missed, but since then, it hasn't fazed me. Until today when I saw it and I thought, "I should throw that away." This happens to me a lot. Things like shampoo bottles lying amok around my house. Stuff like that just doesn't bother me.
On a completely unrelated note, I spent today babysitting for a cutie 1-yr old named Eliza. I have come to the conclusion that there is nothing that is better than the moment when you go into a babes bedroom after their nap and they are standing there, holding themselves up on the crib, BEAMING at whoever it is who has come to take them back into the bright world filled with toys and bottles. At the risk of sounding like a complete sap, that is one of my really favorite things.
Lastly - I would encourage those of you who feel so inclined to check out this blog: Stuff Christians Like. Really funny and often, really poignant. [Sidebar: I always feel awkward using the word poignant. But it feels right. So I'm leaving it.] This post from today really REALLY hit home for me.
with that, I am taking my beautiful flowers that I just got (more on this later) and watching Lost and then hitting the hay... first day at Denver Christian tomorrow as a school counselor INTERN! I'm such a big deal.
As I sit here, I realize I haven't actually thrown that bottle away yet. Too busy planning this blog post. Don't worry, Mom, I'm going now...
Here's what made me think of it.
There is a shampoo bottle on the floor of our bathroom. It is empty. The other day, in the shower, I used the last drop - and I tried to aim it out of the shower into the trash. I missed. Since then, it has been lying helplessly on the floor of the bathroom. Here is why I say I am not lazy - I haven't noticed it. I remember the moment when I tossed and missed, but since then, it hasn't fazed me. Until today when I saw it and I thought, "I should throw that away." This happens to me a lot. Things like shampoo bottles lying amok around my house. Stuff like that just doesn't bother me.
On a completely unrelated note, I spent today babysitting for a cutie 1-yr old named Eliza. I have come to the conclusion that there is nothing that is better than the moment when you go into a babes bedroom after their nap and they are standing there, holding themselves up on the crib, BEAMING at whoever it is who has come to take them back into the bright world filled with toys and bottles. At the risk of sounding like a complete sap, that is one of my really favorite things.
Lastly - I would encourage those of you who feel so inclined to check out this blog: Stuff Christians Like. Really funny and often, really poignant. [Sidebar: I always feel awkward using the word poignant. But it feels right. So I'm leaving it.] This post from today really REALLY hit home for me.
with that, I am taking my beautiful flowers that I just got (more on this later) and watching Lost and then hitting the hay... first day at Denver Christian tomorrow as a school counselor INTERN! I'm such a big deal.
As I sit here, I realize I haven't actually thrown that bottle away yet. Too busy planning this blog post. Don't worry, Mom, I'm going now...
January 23, 2009
help a sista out
Ok, so, Thursday (a week from yesterday) marks Kansas' 148th birthday... and the second annual Kansas Day Party hosted by the girls of 1403 University. It's funny to remember last year... I had just moved in and hardly knew anyone. I imagine this year will be more fun. Ha!Anyhoo... I need a costume!! Last year some of the costumes included: Crazy Mike, largest ball of twine, and a sunflower.
I need some suggestions! My only thought so far has been Kirstie Alley. And I'm not even sure how I would pull that off.
Ok so... creative juices flowing... aaaaaand, go.
January 22, 2009
things I think you should do
i.e. How to Have a Happier Life (in my personal opinion)
see a beautiful movie:
I LOVED this movie... it is a beautiful film (as Kara used to say) that is so engaging... I never got bored for one second! I laughed, I cried, I was moved. Convince your husband to go (cough *Mom* cough) and see this movie. You won't be sorry.
spend time with/learn from people who are smarter than you:
I pretty much do this every single day. Even if you're not in school... maybe "smarter than" is a little harsh... but someone who knows more about something than you. Someone who has different spiritual gifts. Whatever. Ask them to have coffee with you and then soak it all in. You don't have to say, "hey, you're smarter than me, can we hang out?" People (most people, anyway) love to be pursued and invested in... so do it!
listen to delectable music:
my two always recommendations - Ingrid Michaelson's album "Be OK"
and Andrew Bird's "The Mysterious Production of Eggs." 
(I'm clearly concerned with equal representation here.)
Both are just nothing short of delightful and come highly recommended by ME!
do something really fun and totally below your maturity level:
(i.e. go somewhere where you will surely be the oldest person in attendance)
for example: going to Jump Street - wall to wall trampolines.
we were the oldest people there by a good 10 years.
do something every day that scares you.
No, I'm totally just kidding. That would be a super lame thing to say.
Just wanted to see if you were paying attention.
do shamelessly indulge in something you consider to be a little bit embarrassing:
like get overly invested in a reality show (i.e. join a Fantasy Bachelor league.) Or read the same books that 14 year olds are fawning over (i.e. Twilight. All 4.) I'm not sorry. Sidenote: one of my Bachelor girls got the boot this week. Sayonara, Kari.
admit you were wrong about something:
So, I finally (eons later) finished The Shack. And you know what, I didn't hate it. Still I will admit, it was not my favorite book ever - nor was it all that well-written. But when I let myself be open to what its message was, I found some things that REALLY hit home. A big huge shout out to Jennifer Shively for bringing this to my attention. I spoke a little too soon. Pulitzer Prize winning it is not, but theologically interesting it certainly was.
watch tv on dvd.
A personal favorite. This category also includes watching tv online, which I think is just as fun. I have admittedly watched a great deal of Doogie Howser, M.D. - and I loved every minute of it.
quit things that aren't life-giving:
Or... say no to things you don't want to do.
[What does this look like? Don't answer your phone if you don't want to talk; don't go skiing when your friends do; don't go to church for a sunday (crazy, heresy! I know); say no to taking someone's shift at JCrew if you need a night off; etc.]
This, I have found, is a freeing recognition: that I don't have to do stuff I don't want to! I still do, sometimes, but I'm not confined to it. This doesn't mean don't stretch yourself from time to time (I mean, you still have to do one thing every day that scares you, obviously.) Fyi: I stole this piece of advice from someone smarter than me. (See what I did there?)
Now I am totally going to plagiarize Erin Cooper here...
What do YOU recommend as a tip for a happier life?
see a beautiful movie:
I LOVED this movie... it is a beautiful film (as Kara used to say) that is so engaging... I never got bored for one second! I laughed, I cried, I was moved. Convince your husband to go (cough *Mom* cough) and see this movie. You won't be sorry.spend time with/learn from people who are smarter than you:
I pretty much do this every single day. Even if you're not in school... maybe "smarter than" is a little harsh... but someone who knows more about something than you. Someone who has different spiritual gifts. Whatever. Ask them to have coffee with you and then soak it all in. You don't have to say, "hey, you're smarter than me, can we hang out?" People (most people, anyway) love to be pursued and invested in... so do it!
listen to delectable music:
my two always recommendations - Ingrid Michaelson's album "Be OK"
and Andrew Bird's "The Mysterious Production of Eggs." (I'm clearly concerned with equal representation here.)Both are just nothing short of delightful and come highly recommended by ME!
do something really fun and totally below your maturity level:
(i.e. go somewhere where you will surely be the oldest person in attendance)
for example: going to Jump Street - wall to wall trampolines.
we were the oldest people there by a good 10 years.
do something every day that scares you.
No, I'm totally just kidding. That would be a super lame thing to say.
Just wanted to see if you were paying attention.
do shamelessly indulge in something you consider to be a little bit embarrassing:
like get overly invested in a reality show (i.e. join a Fantasy Bachelor league.) Or read the same books that 14 year olds are fawning over (i.e. Twilight. All 4.) I'm not sorry. Sidenote: one of my Bachelor girls got the boot this week. Sayonara, Kari.
admit you were wrong about something:So, I finally (eons later) finished The Shack. And you know what, I didn't hate it. Still I will admit, it was not my favorite book ever - nor was it all that well-written. But when I let myself be open to what its message was, I found some things that REALLY hit home. A big huge shout out to Jennifer Shively for bringing this to my attention. I spoke a little too soon. Pulitzer Prize winning it is not, but theologically interesting it certainly was.
watch tv on dvd.
A personal favorite. This category also includes watching tv online, which I think is just as fun. I have admittedly watched a great deal of Doogie Howser, M.D. - and I loved every minute of it.
quit things that aren't life-giving:
Or... say no to things you don't want to do.
[What does this look like? Don't answer your phone if you don't want to talk; don't go skiing when your friends do; don't go to church for a sunday (crazy, heresy! I know); say no to taking someone's shift at JCrew if you need a night off; etc.]
This, I have found, is a freeing recognition: that I don't have to do stuff I don't want to! I still do, sometimes, but I'm not confined to it. This doesn't mean don't stretch yourself from time to time (I mean, you still have to do one thing every day that scares you, obviously.) Fyi: I stole this piece of advice from someone smarter than me. (See what I did there?)
Now I am totally going to plagiarize Erin Cooper here...
What do YOU recommend as a tip for a happier life?
January 16, 2009
love it when song lyrics speak to my life
I saw Bride Wars last night... and let me start by saying that one of two things needs to happen in my life: I either need to not be single, or stop seeing movies about weddings. That's pretty much what it boils down to. No more romantic comedies for me.
Ok so... there is a song in the movie called "Dream" by Priscilla Ahn... who I like a lot... she has a really pretty, quiet voice, and her songs are a little bit like lullabies, which is nice from time to time. Anyway this song played, so I downloaded it when I got home, and I was excited because of reasons I will tell you in a minute. Here's how it goes...
"Once I was a little girl, alone in my little world, who dreamed of a little home for me. I played pretend between the trees, and fed my houseguests bark and leaves, and laughed in my pretty bed of green. I had a dream... that I could fly from the highest swing, I had a dream.
Long walks in the dark through woods grown behind the park, I asked God who I'm supposed to be. The stars smiled down on me, God answered in silent reverie. I said a prayer and fell asleep.
I had a dream... that I could fly from the highest tree, I had a dream.
Now I'm old and feeling grey. I don't know what's left to say about this life I'm willing to leave.
I lived it full and I lived it well, there's many tales I've lived to tell. I'm ready now, I'm ready now, I'm ready now to fly from the highest wing... I had a dream."
Yeah, its a nice song, but here is why I love it so: because I DID THAT! See the italics? In our house on Greenleaf, I totally used to sit between two trees in our backyard and play pretend and dream and have guests and feed them naturey crap. Mom - you will remember - you and Thom used to make fun of me for sitting out there and pretty much talking to myself slash the occasional imaginary person. So today, I have been enjoying remembering the simplicity of life between the trees. Being a kid was so great.
peace, love, and 3 day weekends...
megan mcgregor greaves signing off from between the trees
Ok so... there is a song in the movie called "Dream" by Priscilla Ahn... who I like a lot... she has a really pretty, quiet voice, and her songs are a little bit like lullabies, which is nice from time to time. Anyway this song played, so I downloaded it when I got home, and I was excited because of reasons I will tell you in a minute. Here's how it goes...
"Once I was a little girl, alone in my little world, who dreamed of a little home for me. I played pretend between the trees, and fed my houseguests bark and leaves, and laughed in my pretty bed of green. I had a dream... that I could fly from the highest swing, I had a dream.
Long walks in the dark through woods grown behind the park, I asked God who I'm supposed to be. The stars smiled down on me, God answered in silent reverie. I said a prayer and fell asleep.
I had a dream... that I could fly from the highest tree, I had a dream.
Now I'm old and feeling grey. I don't know what's left to say about this life I'm willing to leave.
I lived it full and I lived it well, there's many tales I've lived to tell. I'm ready now, I'm ready now, I'm ready now to fly from the highest wing... I had a dream."
Yeah, its a nice song, but here is why I love it so: because I DID THAT! See the italics? In our house on Greenleaf, I totally used to sit between two trees in our backyard and play pretend and dream and have guests and feed them naturey crap. Mom - you will remember - you and Thom used to make fun of me for sitting out there and pretty much talking to myself slash the occasional imaginary person. So today, I have been enjoying remembering the simplicity of life between the trees. Being a kid was so great.
peace, love, and 3 day weekends...
megan mcgregor greaves signing off from between the trees
January 13, 2009
chi town got tip drill
I went to Chicago!
I saw Thomas:
I saw Emily: 
I saw Kristin:
And... I saw WICKED!!
What a glorious time. It was such a fun weekend. Catching up with Kristin and Emily, viewing Thomas' Northwestern life... braving the terrible SNOW! Plus Wicked was AMAZINGGGG... seriously. It was SO GOOD. and, thanks to Thom, we had AMAZING seats, too! Yes, all of these caps are necessary to emphasize how grand the experience was. I loved it. Full pictures here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2043131&l=b575a&id=24900146
The Bachelor started last week... so fun. I am in a fantasy Bachelor league... I have a team of 5 girls and I get points when they do well. If I win, I get a dozen roses sent to me! It is so funny and fun to have a vested interest in what happens. I watched it last night with Chelsea and our commentary was clearly hysterical. If you watch, I picked (in order of how much I like them) - Jillian, interior designer from Canada; Melissa, former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader; Kari, who wears her hair funny and wrote Jason a poem; Stephanie, the old, scary looking widow and single mother who is absolutely the nicest person ever; and Nikki, who got the first impression rose and whose boobs are perpetually hanging out all over the place. FYI.
Started my intercession class yesterday... 5 hours of theology, every day, for two weeks. EEEEEK. its hard to pay attention to ANYTHING for 5 hours at a time. Unless it is Twilight. Which I am done with, by the way. All 4 books. A little bit sad... but just in time to focus on school again, which is good, I guess.
This particular blog post goes out to Erin Cooper, so she can get a good, voyeuristic look into my life, which she requested this morning. Here you are, my creepy little friend. Check her out in the blogroll right to the right. I have also added www.ihategreenbeans.com which you will love if you love the Bachelor (cough *Amie* cough).
ok, there it is. blogging. I'll try to remember to do it more often...
I saw Thomas:
I saw Emily: 
I saw Kristin:
And... I saw WICKED!!
What a glorious time. It was such a fun weekend. Catching up with Kristin and Emily, viewing Thomas' Northwestern life... braving the terrible SNOW! Plus Wicked was AMAZINGGGG... seriously. It was SO GOOD. and, thanks to Thom, we had AMAZING seats, too! Yes, all of these caps are necessary to emphasize how grand the experience was. I loved it. Full pictures here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2043131&l=b575a&id=24900146The Bachelor started last week... so fun. I am in a fantasy Bachelor league... I have a team of 5 girls and I get points when they do well. If I win, I get a dozen roses sent to me! It is so funny and fun to have a vested interest in what happens. I watched it last night with Chelsea and our commentary was clearly hysterical. If you watch, I picked (in order of how much I like them) - Jillian, interior designer from Canada; Melissa, former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader; Kari, who wears her hair funny and wrote Jason a poem; Stephanie, the old, scary looking widow and single mother who is absolutely the nicest person ever; and Nikki, who got the first impression rose and whose boobs are perpetually hanging out all over the place. FYI.
Started my intercession class yesterday... 5 hours of theology, every day, for two weeks. EEEEEK. its hard to pay attention to ANYTHING for 5 hours at a time. Unless it is Twilight. Which I am done with, by the way. All 4 books. A little bit sad... but just in time to focus on school again, which is good, I guess.
This particular blog post goes out to Erin Cooper, so she can get a good, voyeuristic look into my life, which she requested this morning. Here you are, my creepy little friend. Check her out in the blogroll right to the right. I have also added www.ihategreenbeans.com which you will love if you love the Bachelor (cough *Amie* cough).
ok, there it is. blogging. I'll try to remember to do it more often...
January 1, 2009
a happy new year, to all that is living - to all that is gentle, kind, and forgiving
a year in review...
last january, I started babysitting for cutie pie, Bodie:
and I went to visit my alma mater:
in feb and march, nothing very cool happened.
I played with my friends. and I had really long hair.
in April, I turned 23, and my friends (new and old) were fabulous.
AND THEN, I cut off all my hair!
May was a good month... I house-sat for a sweet house with Allison...
and Cally and Adrian became Mr and Mrs Chenault!
and in June, Emily Lebens became Mrs. Cameron Young...
then in July... yes... another wedding! Jessi and Brock Dahl.
We celebrated, in Farrell Fashion, with an 80's themed party... on a party bus.
Note the bride: in gown, in front.
August... Susan moved in!
in September... we saw Sigur Ros at Red Rocks:
And October... the Halloween party of the century thrown by the girls of 1403!
November (technically December, deal with it) brought Thanksgiving and Ruthie's wedding!
and now, December... Holiday fun with the family. 
also a little violence.
Which brings us to the present moment! New Years was kind of a bust... we had high hopes for a fun night out downtown but it was a bit more stressful and annoying than fun. The best part was these shoes, provided by my sweet sister Amie!
So I welcome 2009... and I kiss 2008 SAYONARA! I hope that this new year will bring healing from stupid cancer for my lovely sister, Audrie, and for my sweet friend Wilson.
On a lighter note, I hope also for many more occasions on which to wear those shoes. Because they are fabulous.
Those are the two big ones, really.
And although I am not much for resolutions or any of that crap, I do like the new year... I like the blank slate and all that. I've been listening to a song today that's making me think about this new year in a way thats pretty much a "there's no time like the present" kind of attitude. Its kind of a conversation, it would seem, between God and, well, me. Ha.
"'If you want to see, I can open up your eyes;
and if you want to live, I can open up your life;
and if you want to love, I can open up your heart.'
'Where do we begin? When will this life start?'
'How about now?'" - jonah werner
How about it? Happy New Year!!
last january, I started babysitting for cutie pie, Bodie:
and I went to visit my alma mater:
in feb and march, nothing very cool happened.I played with my friends. and I had really long hair.
in April, I turned 23, and my friends (new and old) were fabulous.
AND THEN, I cut off all my hair!
May was a good month... I house-sat for a sweet house with Allison...
and Cally and Adrian became Mr and Mrs Chenault!
and in June, Emily Lebens became Mrs. Cameron Young...
then in July... yes... another wedding! Jessi and Brock Dahl.We celebrated, in Farrell Fashion, with an 80's themed party... on a party bus.
Note the bride: in gown, in front.
August... Susan moved in!
in September... we saw Sigur Ros at Red Rocks:
And October... the Halloween party of the century thrown by the girls of 1403!
November (technically December, deal with it) brought Thanksgiving and Ruthie's wedding!
and now, December... Holiday fun with the family. 
also a little violence.
Which brings us to the present moment! New Years was kind of a bust... we had high hopes for a fun night out downtown but it was a bit more stressful and annoying than fun. The best part was these shoes, provided by my sweet sister Amie!
So I welcome 2009... and I kiss 2008 SAYONARA! I hope that this new year will bring healing from stupid cancer for my lovely sister, Audrie, and for my sweet friend Wilson.
On a lighter note, I hope also for many more occasions on which to wear those shoes. Because they are fabulous.
Those are the two big ones, really.
And although I am not much for resolutions or any of that crap, I do like the new year... I like the blank slate and all that. I've been listening to a song today that's making me think about this new year in a way thats pretty much a "there's no time like the present" kind of attitude. Its kind of a conversation, it would seem, between God and, well, me. Ha.
"'If you want to see, I can open up your eyes;
and if you want to live, I can open up your life;
and if you want to love, I can open up your heart.'
'Where do we begin? When will this life start?'
'How about now?'" - jonah werner
How about it? Happy New Year!!
December 29, 2008
my mistake
What a silly oversight on my part - I clearly am aware that Jonathon did not take Carrie's name. My congratulations goes to the Hicks family :) That's what I get for blogging with cousins staring over my shoulder. No more haste for me!
December 28, 2008
christmas in Kansas: the full story
This is Megan, reporting live from Kansas City, Kansas from Nana's house. Lovin every minute. I have been utterly lazy on this break... lazy especially about keeping you up-to-date on every single minute of my ridiculously exciting life. My apologies. Here's whats been going on over this lovely break.
I am in the middle of the third of four Twilight books. I took a week-ish long hiatus because I couldn't possibly stand another night of reading until 4 am or until whatever ungodly hour I actually finished the book. I have always been a sucker for books... can't sleep till they're finished. The first two didn't even take me a whole day each to finish. Out of control. I am doing a much better job of rationing the third, and am well-rested today to prove it!
Oh, AND I saw the movie. Such a disappointment. The books are way better. And yes, I am 12. Actually, last night at our hotel (on the fashionable Kansas City Plaza) I was on the elevator with a girl who couldn't have been more than 13 and she had the EXACT same book in her hand that I was hiding in my purse. I was so ashamed. Not ashamed enough to stop, but ashamed nonetheless.
I have slept. A lot. Thats about all there is to say about that.
Have had Christmas with my parents, Gram and brother; one with the Farrells, one with my seesters, and now the last with my dad and his side of the fam. Divorced parents leads to lots of different Christmases. Nice to see and be seen, but I'm glad I'm on the home stretch. One can only handle so many gift exchanges, cheese balls, and festive holiday spirits. Always a lovely time, and always a lovely return home as well. Can't wait to write my thank-you notes!
So, really, its been pretty thrilling. I do have my lack of an internship looming gloomily over my head, but I try not to let it get me down. Until last night when my aunt replied to my unknowing with, "So really, you don't actually know anything, do you Meg?" No. I certainly don't. Cue panic attack. But that wasn't the highlight... I think that would have been when my Nana asked me how many patients I have "lost" so far. As in, have any of my clients ended their own lives under my care? It was a terribly pleasant dinner.
I kid, I kid. Gotta love family at the holidays. Makes for some funny blog entries, which is something, I suppose.
Ooh also, let me take this tiny moment to congratulate Mark and Lorrie (and Ethan, Owen, and Audrey, as well!) on the arrival of Elyse Noel Hostetler; and Carrie and Jonathon HICKS on the new pregnancy! Can't wait to see the preciously cute trequel to Marcail and Gabe :) I love babies.
Off I go... big day of brunch, shopping on the Plaza, and Colts football ahead. Gotta keep up!
I am in the middle of the third of four Twilight books. I took a week-ish long hiatus because I couldn't possibly stand another night of reading until 4 am or until whatever ungodly hour I actually finished the book. I have always been a sucker for books... can't sleep till they're finished. The first two didn't even take me a whole day each to finish. Out of control. I am doing a much better job of rationing the third, and am well-rested today to prove it!
Oh, AND I saw the movie. Such a disappointment. The books are way better. And yes, I am 12. Actually, last night at our hotel (on the fashionable Kansas City Plaza) I was on the elevator with a girl who couldn't have been more than 13 and she had the EXACT same book in her hand that I was hiding in my purse. I was so ashamed. Not ashamed enough to stop, but ashamed nonetheless.
I have slept. A lot. Thats about all there is to say about that.
Have had Christmas with my parents, Gram and brother; one with the Farrells, one with my seesters, and now the last with my dad and his side of the fam. Divorced parents leads to lots of different Christmases. Nice to see and be seen, but I'm glad I'm on the home stretch. One can only handle so many gift exchanges, cheese balls, and festive holiday spirits. Always a lovely time, and always a lovely return home as well. Can't wait to write my thank-you notes!
So, really, its been pretty thrilling. I do have my lack of an internship looming gloomily over my head, but I try not to let it get me down. Until last night when my aunt replied to my unknowing with, "So really, you don't actually know anything, do you Meg?" No. I certainly don't. Cue panic attack. But that wasn't the highlight... I think that would have been when my Nana asked me how many patients I have "lost" so far. As in, have any of my clients ended their own lives under my care? It was a terribly pleasant dinner.
I kid, I kid. Gotta love family at the holidays. Makes for some funny blog entries, which is something, I suppose.
Ooh also, let me take this tiny moment to congratulate Mark and Lorrie (and Ethan, Owen, and Audrey, as well!) on the arrival of Elyse Noel Hostetler; and Carrie and Jonathon HICKS on the new pregnancy! Can't wait to see the preciously cute trequel to Marcail and Gabe :) I love babies.
Off I go... big day of brunch, shopping on the Plaza, and Colts football ahead. Gotta keep up!
December 13, 2008
if you like it then you shoulda put a ring on it
So, in order to help us all get through finals, I made this little video for inspiration (between studying for my Stats final and writing my take-home test for Family Therapy.) It has been a big hit... I even got some emails from professors with compliments. So, if you so desire, you can click this link: http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/To6VbH1IdXMevPPRVpCB to see my counseling professors dance a little number for us...
I am relieved to be done with school, and relieved that Audrie is getting healthier after a rough couple days. I may not ever, however, get enough sleep to make up for the last two weeks. we indulged in a bit of finals-are-over madness last night; and by madness, I mean entirely too many people with entirely too little sleep. one round of balderdash took us like 4 hours. We laughed, though, that is for sure... and it was fun.
Plans for Break...
reading multiple books (including Twilight, no judging please); seeing every movie I want to see; skiing tomorrow (barring bad weather); hopefully going to Jump Street (major amounts of indoor trampolines, yes please); a LOT of laundry; Christmas shopping!; home to Wichita for more of the same; back to Denver for New Years!
song of the hour: Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) by Beyonce. We pretty much sang it (dancing included) all night last night. its just so good.
happy break!
I am relieved to be done with school, and relieved that Audrie is getting healthier after a rough couple days. I may not ever, however, get enough sleep to make up for the last two weeks. we indulged in a bit of finals-are-over madness last night; and by madness, I mean entirely too many people with entirely too little sleep. one round of balderdash took us like 4 hours. We laughed, though, that is for sure... and it was fun.
Plans for Break...
reading multiple books (including Twilight, no judging please); seeing every movie I want to see; skiing tomorrow (barring bad weather); hopefully going to Jump Street (major amounts of indoor trampolines, yes please); a LOT of laundry; Christmas shopping!; home to Wichita for more of the same; back to Denver for New Years!
song of the hour: Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It) by Beyonce. We pretty much sang it (dancing included) all night last night. its just so good.
happy break!
December 8, 2008
oh, the weather outside is frightful!
well, its been a while.
life highlights:
* I found out today that I have enough credit card points for a plane ticket! this is a big deal. super exciting. where should I go??? my thoughts: Tejas? DC? LA? So hard to decide...
* Finals have descended upon me and are, as always, no fun. Only a test and a take-home left...
* I might ski this weekend. You should probably start praying now.
* ooh - I got the chance to see Trans Siberian Orchestra!! thanks to a good friend, I got to see the light show, the pyrotechnics (FIRE!) and fabulous music... it was so beyond fun. it SNOWED in the Pepsi Center!! if you ever get the chance... do it. thanks to Justin!!
* in 2009, I have plans (already) to see: WICKED in Chicago (!!!!), John Legend, and Andrew Bird. how fabulous is that?
* I have been really big into rebates these days. I said this the other night to my friends and got a big laugh... but I'm serious! I have gotten 3 checks in the mail from rebates. who's laughing now?? coupons too. somewhere along the line, I got a little bit frugal. go figure.
Sunday was a good day. I got to teach Sunday school with my lovely friend Allison... and I tell you, there is just nothing like a 3 year old to make your whole day. Quote of the week, from Peyton, age 3... She said, just with the brightest little matter of fact voice, "Underpants! That is a funny word! You know what I'm gonna do? I'm gonna go back in the room, and I'm gonna say underpants. And then everybody will laugh!" And you know what? Everybody did. Dreams do come true.
Finished Sunday by getting the chance to go serve at the Denver Rescue Mission... I tell you what, nothing is more humbling. I got to serve cake & pie - and it was just great. I was completely covered in frosting and pie filling by the time they all filed out... worth it. It made me so sad that I am so silly so much of the time. That I have so much but I am so ungrateful! Needless to say... I walked with a little more pep in my step today. With all of their smiles filing through my mind, Joy has come a little easier. I hope to go back more in the future... hold me to it, ok?
songs I'm loving:
mostly Christmas music... well, only Christmas music. lets be honest.
AND, though, a little bit of the Billboard Top 100 too (thank you, Sarah) while I write papers. it pumps me up.
and lastly, on my heart today, is C.S. Lewis:
“It would seem that our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling around with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at sea. We are far too easily pleased.”
Isn't that so true? The slums are no fun. Let's say yes to a holiday at sea.
life highlights:
* I found out today that I have enough credit card points for a plane ticket! this is a big deal. super exciting. where should I go??? my thoughts: Tejas? DC? LA? So hard to decide...
* Finals have descended upon me and are, as always, no fun. Only a test and a take-home left...
* I might ski this weekend. You should probably start praying now.
* ooh - I got the chance to see Trans Siberian Orchestra!! thanks to a good friend, I got to see the light show, the pyrotechnics (FIRE!) and fabulous music... it was so beyond fun. it SNOWED in the Pepsi Center!! if you ever get the chance... do it. thanks to Justin!!
* in 2009, I have plans (already) to see: WICKED in Chicago (!!!!), John Legend, and Andrew Bird. how fabulous is that?
* I have been really big into rebates these days. I said this the other night to my friends and got a big laugh... but I'm serious! I have gotten 3 checks in the mail from rebates. who's laughing now?? coupons too. somewhere along the line, I got a little bit frugal. go figure.
Sunday was a good day. I got to teach Sunday school with my lovely friend Allison... and I tell you, there is just nothing like a 3 year old to make your whole day. Quote of the week, from Peyton, age 3... She said, just with the brightest little matter of fact voice, "Underpants! That is a funny word! You know what I'm gonna do? I'm gonna go back in the room, and I'm gonna say underpants. And then everybody will laugh!" And you know what? Everybody did. Dreams do come true.
Finished Sunday by getting the chance to go serve at the Denver Rescue Mission... I tell you what, nothing is more humbling. I got to serve cake & pie - and it was just great. I was completely covered in frosting and pie filling by the time they all filed out... worth it. It made me so sad that I am so silly so much of the time. That I have so much but I am so ungrateful! Needless to say... I walked with a little more pep in my step today. With all of their smiles filing through my mind, Joy has come a little easier. I hope to go back more in the future... hold me to it, ok?
songs I'm loving:
mostly Christmas music... well, only Christmas music. lets be honest.
AND, though, a little bit of the Billboard Top 100 too (thank you, Sarah) while I write papers. it pumps me up.
and lastly, on my heart today, is C.S. Lewis:
“It would seem that our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling around with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at sea. We are far too easily pleased.”
Isn't that so true? The slums are no fun. Let's say yes to a holiday at sea.
November 20, 2008
November 13, 2008
"the vision is hope; and hope is real."
Proof that I am learning too much slash there is too much going on in my brain:
I just wrote 3 different blog entries and got overwhelmed by each one and deleted all of them. Too rambly. My old college pastor, when helping us to write sermons/talks would always remind us that we didn't have to fit everything we knew about everything into that one thirty minute talk. Same kind of thing here. I just can't get it all out. Which is okay.
Here are some tidbits:
- a thing of great beauty: To Write Love On Her Arms. a nonprofit/annual event. "To Write Love On Her Arms is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for those struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery." A beautiful thing. I read this, and I cry every time (without fail): "...Don Miller says we're called 'to hold our hands against the wounds of a broken world, to stop the bleeding.' I agree so greatly. We often ask God to show up. We pray prayers of rescue. Perhaps God would ask us to be that rescue, to be His body, to move for things that matter. He is not invisible when we come alive. I might be simple but more and more, I believe God works in love, speaks in love, is revealed in our love. I have seen that this week and honestly, it has been simple: Take a broken girl, treat her like a famous princess, give her the best seats in the house. Buy her coffee and cigarettes for the coming down, books and bathroom things for the days ahead. Tell her something true when all she's known are lies. Tell her God loves her. Tell her about forgiveness, the possibility of freedom, tell her she was made to dance in white dresses. All these things are true. We won't solve all the mysteries and our hearts will certainly break in such a vulnerable life, but it is the best way. we were made to be lovers bold in broken places, pouring ourselves out again and again until we're called home." (www. twloha.com)
- fun facts: Going to see Ingrid Michaelson tomorrow in concert, followed by Korean Karaoke with my spiritual formation group on Saturday. Thanksgiving in 2 weeks and Christmas break in about 5! Interviewing for Internships... terrifying. But also exciting! Nothing yet but hopefully soon... :)
- looking forward to: family time, free time, getting my hair done, reading for pleasure.
- I am loving: cool weather, amazing sales at J.Crew, pain that equals growth, live music, having FUN, high fives, this blog, and wild sweet orange Tazo tea, available at Starbucks.
And that's all I have. It's late, I'm tired from all this blogging and not actually even posting, and it is past time for bed.
"Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." - Lamentations 3:22-23
I just wrote 3 different blog entries and got overwhelmed by each one and deleted all of them. Too rambly. My old college pastor, when helping us to write sermons/talks would always remind us that we didn't have to fit everything we knew about everything into that one thirty minute talk. Same kind of thing here. I just can't get it all out. Which is okay.
Here are some tidbits:
- a thing of great beauty: To Write Love On Her Arms. a nonprofit/annual event. "To Write Love On Her Arms is a non-profit movement dedicated to presenting hope and finding help for those struggling with depression, addiction, self-injury and suicide. TWLOHA exists to encourage, inform, inspire, and also to invest directly into treatment and recovery." A beautiful thing. I read this, and I cry every time (without fail): "...Don Miller says we're called 'to hold our hands against the wounds of a broken world, to stop the bleeding.' I agree so greatly. We often ask God to show up. We pray prayers of rescue. Perhaps God would ask us to be that rescue, to be His body, to move for things that matter. He is not invisible when we come alive. I might be simple but more and more, I believe God works in love, speaks in love, is revealed in our love. I have seen that this week and honestly, it has been simple: Take a broken girl, treat her like a famous princess, give her the best seats in the house. Buy her coffee and cigarettes for the coming down, books and bathroom things for the days ahead. Tell her something true when all she's known are lies. Tell her God loves her. Tell her about forgiveness, the possibility of freedom, tell her she was made to dance in white dresses. All these things are true. We won't solve all the mysteries and our hearts will certainly break in such a vulnerable life, but it is the best way. we were made to be lovers bold in broken places, pouring ourselves out again and again until we're called home." (www. twloha.com)
- fun facts: Going to see Ingrid Michaelson tomorrow in concert, followed by Korean Karaoke with my spiritual formation group on Saturday. Thanksgiving in 2 weeks and Christmas break in about 5! Interviewing for Internships... terrifying. But also exciting! Nothing yet but hopefully soon... :)
- looking forward to: family time, free time, getting my hair done, reading for pleasure.
- I am loving: cool weather, amazing sales at J.Crew, pain that equals growth, live music, having FUN, high fives, this blog, and wild sweet orange Tazo tea, available at Starbucks.
And that's all I have. It's late, I'm tired from all this blogging and not actually even posting, and it is past time for bed.
"Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." - Lamentations 3:22-23
November 1, 2008
it's time to try defying gravity...
(thank you Maybelline eyeshadow for covering my whole face all night long.)
(please note my stockings and ruby slippers and broom)
(the hostesses and residents of 1403 university... note my counterpart, Glinda the good witch!)
here it is - halloween. the party (and I do mean THE party... of the year) was a HUGE success. I think there were at least 100 people who came, total - even our neighbors ventured over from their lame party! granted, they were huge creepers, but such is life. it was a GREAT party. I spent the majority of today basking in last night's wonderfulness. I am, however, still sick with some kind of cold/flu type situation... I was able to rally for the party though, never you fear! It was so fun. For a full rundown of the costumes, etc, please visit my facebook album here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2041803&l=09f74&id=24900146 (for those of you without facebook.) There were some hilarious costumes... among my favorites were: She-Ra, princess of power; mashed potatoes; Mugatu (from Zoolander); the guy in the shower; 2 mormon missionaries; ghost busters; Ben Franklin; all of the Plastics from Mean Girls; and Quail Man. People went all out! and our house wasn't totally trashed, either, which is GRAND. So fun. I wish it wasn't over!
There you have it.
good new music: new Ray Lamontagne CD (Gossip in the Grain) and new Ingrid Michaelson CD (Be OK) - both winners in their own right. Ingrid's is superb. I highly recommend it!
peace, love, and costume parties...
(please note my stockings and ruby slippers and broom)
(the hostesses and residents of 1403 university... note my counterpart, Glinda the good witch!)
here it is - halloween. the party (and I do mean THE party... of the year) was a HUGE success. I think there were at least 100 people who came, total - even our neighbors ventured over from their lame party! granted, they were huge creepers, but such is life. it was a GREAT party. I spent the majority of today basking in last night's wonderfulness. I am, however, still sick with some kind of cold/flu type situation... I was able to rally for the party though, never you fear! It was so fun. For a full rundown of the costumes, etc, please visit my facebook album here: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2041803&l=09f74&id=24900146 (for those of you without facebook.) There were some hilarious costumes... among my favorites were: She-Ra, princess of power; mashed potatoes; Mugatu (from Zoolander); the guy in the shower; 2 mormon missionaries; ghost busters; Ben Franklin; all of the Plastics from Mean Girls; and Quail Man. People went all out! and our house wasn't totally trashed, either, which is GRAND. So fun. I wish it wasn't over!
There you have it.
good new music: new Ray Lamontagne CD (Gossip in the Grain) and new Ingrid Michaelson CD (Be OK) - both winners in their own right. Ingrid's is superb. I highly recommend it!
peace, love, and costume parties...
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