Junior year update!

It's almost Halloween! Can you believe how fast the first month of school has gone? Just craziness, really.

Well here are some updates you might enjoy: (in no particular order...)

1. Congratulations to our very own Kristen Long for being crowned The Broken Arrow Homecoming Queen 2011! You are an amazing role model! And great job Tigers for the victory over PCW!

2. Congratulations to my friend and fellow pageant sister, Aldyn Philips for being crowned The Union Homecoming Queen 2011! You did such a great job and looked great!

3. MPACT: Annual One Big Party is this October 12th. It's a Wednesday night so take off work, bring some friends and don't miss out!

4. November 10th is the annual fall chairty show put on by Ihloff Spa. For those of you who know, this is a prestigous salon and it wiull be an unforgettable show. Get your tickets at either of the Tulsa locations. Thanks to the directors and Kate who came to Tulsa Tech to visit the cosmo classes. My friends Jordan, Samantha, Sarah, Cheyenne, Emily and I were selected to help assist behind the scenes for the show. I'm personally super excited to get some experience under my belt and see what runway life is really like. This year's theme is "Wild at Art."

5. Just a personal note: when life gets crazy, you must take time for yourself. Time to just do nothing and watch a movie, or to pick a friend and vent about everything that is going on. Sometimes we don't realize how over whelmed we are with the stress of life until it's too late.

Above is a picture from cosmetology class. We were assigned to find some inspiration, then practice on the hair weft and create it with hair color. We had a great time bonding and goofing off and just having fun. (L-R: Cheyenne, Natasha, Keziah)

It feels good to be pampered!

Cosmetology class has its moments of fun, its moments of grunt work, and tremendous learning! Part of this experience is practicing skills on classmates. The flip side, is you get to have services done as the other girls practice for little to no cost.

Today the seniors of the class took turns giving the juniors massages, washing their hair and drying their hair. And the ambiance was amazing! My stylist for the day was Paisley and she did a fantastic job. The lights in the lab were turned off, and the soothing music went perfectly with the scalp massage. The smells, the low lights, the massages, and the water during the rinsing portion literally melts stress away. The girls used a tinting oil before wetting down the hair to nourish and massage the scalp. Then they used professional shampoo and conditioner to wash, then various products to style.

It's incredible just what a professional wash and scalp massage can do for a girl's confidence and stress levels!

I cannot wait to get out in the professional world and make other girls feel pretty every single day. That is one of the most rewarding feelings there is. Just a my instructor says, a client may need a few minutes of someone to talk to, or just simply a hair trim, or renewed confidence. But it is our (my) job to help them get that.

Seniors and Mrs. Simmons: Thank you so much for the mini spa treatments this morning! You girls are amazing and I am looking forward to an awesome year with you guys!

Let's be real

SIGH. Well, I don't want to post details right now, but this past weekend was nothing but some learning and a reality check for me. I had moments that made me cry, that made me see clearer, and that made me ask lots of questions.

Where do I begin? Well, first a big shout out to my youth pastor. And a thanks, as well. Our little chat helped me a lot. I had no idea the pressure on my shoulders until I laid everything out on the table for you. And honestly, I could have kept going! I respect everything that he had to say, and being listened to like a young adult and not a child was a very cool thing. He prayed with me afterwards, and it helped a lot. It made me feel better, but also made me see things in a different light. It partially made me think I need to not be so hard on myself and try to be a kid as much as I can, but it also made me realize how long my to do list truly is. (yikes...)

Later that Friday night, work was incredibly stressfull and it got to me. I had to leave due to an asthma attack towards the end of my shift. It's been a very long time since anything like that has happened and it was a little frightening. No need to worry, once I got home, I eventually fell asleep and felt much better after sleeping for 12 hours.

The following day was full of blessings and sweltering august heat. I just love getting hand me down clothes and stuff from my older cousins!

On the last day of this...weekend, I totaled my car. I was on the way home from work and rear ended a guy in a nissan truck. (I am leaving out most of the story for now, details later.) I was so incredibly blessed that no one was hurt. The man that I hit and the lady that stayed to give a report were so kind to me. They just kept reassuring me that it would all pass and cars are replacable and lives are not. Bottom line. Everyone just kept saying "No one was hurt." So, with all that said, I am car-less at the moment. But it's teaching me a lot. Shout out to the guy I hit: "Thank you for being so kind and calm. It truly was a blessing that you were the one in front of me."

Life isn't always easy, and I'm not perfect. Yes, I try to hold myself to some pretty high standards, but I make mistakes. I do things I shouldn't. I get nervous. I don't like confrontation. The key is to learn and grow from all of life's ups and downs. To grow mentally, spiritually, and physically. Just like my youth pastor remided me, being a teenager isn't easy and you have to take time for yourself. Otherwiae we get overwhelmed and break.

I also want to mention that my boyfriend Jonathan is a huge support to me. He encouraged me through all my trials this weekend, and it helped a lot. He also was at the site of the accident to make sure I was okay shortly after it happened. Thank you very much Jon! I appreciate all that you do for me!

So if you find yourself in similar ruts of life, pray. I know it might not be the easiest thing to do, being humble before the Lord,but you will feel so much better afterwards. Just like a friend of mine said, "God wants the best for His children." He will provide and comfort like no other can.

Music Addict- August Playlist

What song is playig in your head right now? Pop? Rock? Christian Rock? No matter what time of day it is, I always have something stuck in my head. And for those of you who know me, I am a music addict. I'm pretty well versed on the artists I like and the lyrics of the songs I sing.

So let me share with you my current playlist. These are the songs to kick off the school year, to pump up the party and let down your hair to.

1. Stereo Hearts by Gym Class Heroes ft Adam Levine This song is catchy and sweet, and very fun. It has Travvie Mccoy's sick beats, and Adam Levine's legit voice. Levine is also the lead vocal of Maroon 5. Levine's career has been heating up lately, as he is a judge on NBC's The Voice, and has multiple singles out right now.

2. Pumped Up Kicks by Foster The People This tune is more mellow, but still very fun. The new mod-vintage band came out of nowhere butis in the vh1 'you oughta know: artists on te rise' spotlight. Thes oh-so-cute members say their sounds is highly influenced by british rock groups.

3. If I ruled th World by Big Time Rush There is absolutely nothing wrong with enoying a little BTR, I don't care who you are. These lyrics are fun and sweet, and you can tell these boys are far from flakes.

4. Impossible by Anberlin Anberlin is a band very close to my heart. They have a very unique sound, and the lyrics are amazing. Many people have not even heard of the band, but I highly encourage everyoneto go watch some of the band's videos on YouTube.

5.Moves Like Jagger by Maroon 5 and Christiana Aguilera Yes, Maroon 5 has done it again! This beat is a bit risque, but you can't help but dance when it comes on!

Hit up YouTube or iTunes wheneer you get the chance and give these beats a chance! You'll be searching for those dance shoes as soon as the music comes on!

Procrastination...The Disease of High School Kids

Procrastination. Webster's online dictionary decribes it as "putting off to a future time". As a 2011-2012 BA junior, I can tell you, I have become and expert procrastinator. And I learn from the worlds best: my peers.

School work is definately my least favorite part of school. Personally, I'm all about the social scene. The lunch tables, the new clothes and styles, the student council campaigns and conventions, and the between class convo's. Don't get e wrong, academics are crucial, but that's not necessarily where memories are made. People don't typically look back and smile when they think of outlining chapter 15 in history class. It's the relationships we make in high school and the life lessons we learn and the triumphs that we remember.

However, my fellow AP students feel my pain when I say these few icky words: summer. AP. assignment. For Juniors in AP English, it's The Scarlet Letter as well as a dialectical journal. EEEWWW. Who wants to spend their lst few glorious moments of summer reading a book in old english, then writing about it? Not me. Keep in mind this will be turned in to a teacher we have never met, and have no idea what he/she expects of us. Awesome.

So, I finally got up the motivatin to go get the book. Then it sat in my room for about 3 weeks. Then I finally printed the assignment sheet from the school website. and 2 weks later, (less than 2 weeks from the due date, and 1 week from school) I am finally doing something about it. I also would like to add that when I did attempt to stick it out and just read the book, it put me to sleep. Literally. Although, I didnt feel quite so bad when the smartest kid in class posted that it put him to sleep as well. English this year is going to be a blast.

So friends, the question still stands: how am I going to get this done? Resources. Many students have found a parallel version of the book translated into modern English. (if I can find one... my life will be complete!) Google, Sparknotes, and a little perserverance are my other secret weapons.

AP students: don't give up! It will be worth it in the end. I hope...

Days Like This

As previously mentioned, the Sleeping Beauty production hosted by The South Tulsa Children's Ballet is this Saturday. Throughout this week we are in full preperation and rehearsal mode. This is when the entire cast comes together and goes through the show. These can be multiple hours and can get quite repeatitive.

At the beginning of this week, we had our pictures for the show. Everyone comes in and puts on their costume including hair, makeup, and accessories. The little girls looked so cute in their little tutus and sequins, and the older girls looked so beautiful in their full tutus and pointe shoes. But those are the moments that keep me going. So often I want to quit participating in productions with this company, but days like this keep me going. I have done Nutcracker 2010, and now Sleeping Beauty 2011. I have been blessed in these oppurtunities, but so many days, I long for a part on pointe with the other girls my age.

Since about age four I have wanted pointe shoes. When I finally got into dance lessons, I was disapointed to learn I couldn't have them then. Now I am proud to say I'm a pointe ballerina at my home studio (Beautiful Feet). And I strive to work to the level of the other girls my age. (This is often easier said than done; the other girls at STCB do nothing but eat, sleep, school, and dance.) Days like this reminds me that I am so close to that dream. I am going through the less important parts to work my way to the top. I may not be Aurora or a lead, but one day I will reach that goal of wearing one of the beautiful stand out tutus on stage with the South Tulsa Children's Ballet.

Along with this, I am working on polishing my pointe solo for the year at my home studio. Check back for performance dates.

Update Please?

For those of you that follow, my sincerest apologies for not blogging in a while. For the newbie readers: hit up my archive on the left, that's where you'll find my more organized thoughts and articles.

So throughout the summer it has been mass organized, (and unorganized) chaos for this girl. I have been spending lots of time at work, trying to catch up with friends, and learning enough to write 16 novels. Lots of my time of course, has been spent with Jonathan. (Yes we are officially a couple. (Awww!!!) ). His family is just adorable and we always have a good time. I've also been a busy little bee getting ready for two very big events.

The first is Sleeping Beauty, an annual production put on by the South Tulsa Children's Ballet. The shows are at 2pm and 7 pm at the TCC performing arts center. Tickets can be purchased online. I am on of the Queen's friends, and I have very little to complain about except the monstrous head piece I am required to wear. The dress itself is really pretty, but the fake tiaras are a bit tacky, not even going to sugar coat it.

The second big event, is the Miss BA competition in October. (And of course the dance competition in September!) I am busy getting paper work ready, wardrobe lines out, and my talent refined. So far, the dress in the running for my love is a gorgeous A-line yellow prom formal. It has just a touch of beading and is very pretty. I could see myself getting crowned in the dress for sure. (I've been told it makes me look like Belle from Beauty and the Beast.) I am also wearing out the satin in my pointe shoes. This year my talent is 100% hard work and passion. I'm putting my heart and soul into this dance, bringing my A game this year. Competing last February taught me a lot about pageants and many other life lessons as well. But one very important thing I learned: When you're nervous and stressed, your hair is so much less likely to cooperate, so be kind to those locks!

next on the list, is school. We are just a few short weeks away, and it will be upon us. This will be my junior year and I am so excited to reunite with my friends and get back to the daily grind of being a high school student. This year I am going to have my own style, a positive outlook, and rid all insecurities. But most importantly, my light for Christ is going to shine brightly. I know I'm not perfect, but I can do anything through Christ who gives me strength. For the readers: pick up a copy of Battlefield of the Mind: for Teens by Joyce Meyer when you get a chance. It's a quick easy read and so crammed full of power. It's incredibly uplifting! I highly recommend it, and I'm only on chapter 6!

Author's Picks

In most magazines you will find a section of Editor's picks. Well as my literature stylings have ot gotten me that far yet, I would still love to share with you my list of current favorite things. These range from drinks to songs to trends to stores. Hang on tight, I've got quite the list for you.

1. YouTube video: Monster by Paramore. The song featured on Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon. THe video is astounding and Hayley Williams does not disappoint. Of course the two guys on guitar are there, Jeremy Williams and Taylor York, do a great job as well. (cover pictured above) The band recently lost the Farro brothers but still plans to continue ad release a fourth album within the next year. Riot fans stay true!

2. Vintage and Consignment: the mall may be great, but not only is it pricey, but everyone shops there. Chances are that if you find something you love at American Eagle (or the like) about 35 other people from your shool have probably found it and loved it too. This year I'm going vintage and hitting the resale shops. Salvation Army, Plato's, Bearlee New, and Uptown Resale are just a few in the BA/ Tulsa area. Those will be my spots for back to school shopping. Many of them will be having sales and promotions for the new school year as well. The main thing to remember is try it on before you buy it. These stores offer unique one of a kind peices that have been gently used and have endless possibilities.

3. Planking: this s a semi new trend for the adrenaline junkies. It's similiar to the 2004 trend, parkour, as seen on the office. Planking is simply choosing some of the most strange and dangerous places and laying on your tummy and making your body into the form of a plank. As soon as it cools down I plan on taking a bunch of my friends to find some really cool planking spots.

4.SUSIE magazine: This magazine was created by Susie Shellenberger and is geared towards teen christian girls. It is full of spiritual, social, and other useful advice. It is an incredible tool that I love to use in working on my faith. God has used this magazine to connect girls all over the world. Like SUSIE on faacebook for updates.

5. Spontaneous-ness: yes, I am pretty sure that is a word. But I just love random ness. My best friend and I are the queens of random sleepovers and 10 o'clock trips to mcdonald's. It is so much fun to do random things like that with good friends.

Be sure to stay posted for more Auhtor's picks and updates!

His lyrics make me happy

No, I am not talking about Jesse McCartney. Shocker, I know. Ladies and gentlemen, my dear classmates and cynics, I give you, OWL CITY!

Now I would like to share my thoughts with you about this band. Many people have given me their very rude thoughts and feelings about the band without giving the music a chance. You know who you are. Yes, the band is truly just one guy with a keyboard and some wicked insomnia. Adam Young is the genius behind all the lyrics, and is from Minnesota. The music began when he was experimenting with some music in his parent's basement. Now Adam is not your typical musician. He donesn't do meet and greet's, and just has his own style.

Many people had not heard of the band until his single "Fireflies" hit radio stations across the country in early fall 2009. Since then he has toured with John Mayer, Shiny Toy Guns, Lights, and many other big name groups. He does have an entourage that travels with him for performances, complete with violin players. I got the oppurtunity to see the band perform live in April or 2010 and loved it. (Although note to readers: DO NOT stand in front of speakers for a 2 and a half hour concert if Shiny Toy Guns is the opening act. You won't hear anything for a week.) The lights and effects were incredible and they sounds great live! The crowd even got Adam to come back and do an additional song after the band had left the stage. I won't forget that night, it was a blast!

For those of you who listen to Taylor Swift, you probably already know she wrote the song "Enchanted" about the night she got to meet Adam Young himself. (A beautiful song, kudos to you, Taylor.) On Valentine's day 2011, Owl City released a cover of the song. A ew of the lyrics wre changed putting Taylor's name and other specific touches in to make it just as sweet as sugar. You can find this song on YouTube.

Like I said before, I have gotten grief in the past simply for being a fan. So let me tell you just what it is about this "nonsense" that keeps me coming back. First of all, the lyrics are clean. There is no vulgarity, sexual content, curse words or anything of the like. Compare this to any of the hit songs on the secular radio and then come back to me. Second, Adam is a christian artist. He may not sing direct worship songs, (althoug "Galaxies" totally could be and it is played on multiple christian stations) but he has stated his faith and agrees with the word of God. Next, his lyrics are fun! They typically make no sense but they are just fun. Many of his songs could be considered love songs. Sometimes when you don't know how to describe what you're feeling, listen to an owl city song and maybe you'll figure it out.

Right now I am personally in a "Vanilla Twilight" mood. I'll be singing this song for a while as someone very dear to me is out of the country and will be missed. Sometimes even the nonsense music can be relatable to everyone.

His latest record, All Things Bright and Beautiful is in stores now, and tour dates are up on his web page.

Don't Waste Your Summer!

July is upon us! Don't shun me for reminding you, but school stars August 25. Tulsa Tech classes start August 22. So take this gentle reminder: don't waste your summer!!! So far my summer has been jam packed with work, ballet, friends, family, a new baby cousin, a short vacay, a new bedroom, and so much more. (If you're wondering when I sleep, I don't know either.) Don't sweat it, though I am here to help. I know it seems tough to find fun or poductive things to do when the summer is flying by and everyone's schedules are like a giant jigsaw puzzle. So here are some suggestions:

PRODUCTIVE:

1. Mowing lawns around the neighborhood. soak up the sun, get a workout in, and earn some extra cash.

2. Sell some of you unwanted clothes at Plato's Closet. I love doing this! Plus while your waiting you can find great new wardrobe pieces.

3. Get a head start on any summer assignments for school. Lame, I know but school will be here in a blink.

4. Look up non profit organizations close to you that could use an extra set of hands. This looks great on college apps, and yo could gain some new friends.

5. Summer Reading Program. I do it every summer and love it. There is just nothing like escaping into the world of a good book.

FUN:

1. S'mores!!! pick a spot and just build a small little bonifre with a few friends and voila! Oh! and walmart has these ridiculous marshamallows now that are HUGE. (pictured above) This is a cheap fun thing to do with friends.

2. Splash Pads. These little parks are all over town and keep cool. There is no cost, and to make it even more fun pack a picnic! These wonders aren't just for toddlers ladies and gentlemen!

3. Take your special someone on a surprise picnic! They won't be expecting it and it's a cheap, easy fun, date. They will love it just because you put effort into the idea. Just keep in mind the heat factor, and plan ahead.

4. Snow Cones. You all know I'm a snow cone junkie! Wih 6+ shacks all over town you can pick any spot you like to have a sweet treat. Also a cheap place to hang out with friends.

5. Egg white facials. Girls, this one is for you. A coworker of mine recently shared this well kept secret. Take two egg whites and gently beat them in a bowl. Then sort of paint it (paint brush/ sponge needed) on your skin. then take strips of toilet paper and place it on top, then paint over it again. In a sense, you're doing a paper mache on your face. It's a completely organic way to unclog pores and a lot of fun to do with a best friend. Keep in mind it takes a while to harden, then just peel away the mask.

I hope you enjoy these tips, and stay hydrated this summer! Water and sunscreen are cruicial!

Transformers 3 Review

Hot cars, explosions, robots, Shia LeBouf, and the gorgeous Rosie Huntington. Who doesn't just love it? On Thursday, my friend Jonathan and I went to see the newest addition to the saga that is bringing in millions of dollars. Titled Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon, it was an incredible movie.

The effects and explosions were amazing, and it makes you laugh, cry, cringe, and cheer. The Autobots are back, and better than ever. Josh Duhamel is back as one of the military leaders and does a great job of assisting in the battle. Sam;s parents are played by Kevin Dunn and Julie White who do a great job of capturing that embarassing parent role. Now, what you have all been waiting for! Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. Sorry boys, she's already taken. Rosie is the new drop dead gorgeous girl playing Sam Witwicky's girlfriend, Carly Spencer. Rosie is a Victoria's Secret angel, and has an impressive resume in the modeling world. Not to mention her foreign accent. (I'm so jealous!)

Parents: Consider your child before taking them to see this movie. The action is great, but can get intense. There is little to no sexual content. However, just as the first two movies, the crude language is inescapable.

Overall, the movie is fantastic and I can't say there is much to complain about. The actors and director's did a fantastic job. Although, do note that the movie is 2 hours and 38 minutes long. So go to the bathroom BEFORE the movie starts. And just for the record, I like Rosie Huntington much better than Megan Fox.

Skinny...isn't always good: toughts about real beauty

In today's society, people are obsessed with self image. Everyone is trying to impress someone else. Everyone is trying to look like a Kardashian or a Beckham, or the newest icon, Kate Middleton. Everyone wishes..."If I could only change...blank...then I would be happy." The truth is, that's not what self image is all about. Beauty comes from within.

However, with all that being said, millions of people in America still struggle with weight. How many times do we hear our loved ones say, "I'm trying to lose weight", or "After this day I'll start working out", or my biggest pet peeve, "I wish I was as skinny as you." I will not boast or brag, but simply state I am a size 2. I'm tall and lean. Don't get me wrong, I have insecurities and things I would love to change. I'm human just like you. I have been told since I was little how skinny I am. And I am speaking for all the teen and young adult girls out there: sometimes being constantly told how skinny we are can be almost as bad as someone hearing they are fat. The worst part of it all is that usuallythe people that make these comments, are smaller than me. It kills me that some of the most beautiful girls I know and see can't see the beauty everyone else sees.

I encourage girls everywhere to pray about their insecurities. These are voids only God can fill.

1 Peter 3:3-4 says: "Don't be concerned with the outward beauty that depends on fancy hairstyles expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should be known for the beauty that comes from within, woth unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God." God loves each and every oneof us exaclty the way we are. These are the promises and scriptures I call on when I am feeling insecure.

Also, a very good friend of mine once said, "We are all flawed, but that's what makes us perfect. It's what seperates us from the norm. Don't let your flaws be your weakness, let your flaws be the glue that holds your strength together."

Above I have posted a picture of the supermodel, Crystal Renn. You can see in both photos that she is very beautiful. However, in one photo she is much thinner than in the other. Skinny is not always best or beautiful. What's important is the inner beauty, and using your flaws to help you grow as a person and individual.

Being the Ballerina

Well, as my blog implies, I am a ballerina. Since I was teeny tiny I have wanted nothing more. Every time music came on, I was moving. I tried other activities such as soccer, gymnastics, softball, and tennis. Every time I tried something it would seem fun at first, but I just wasn't satisfied. I kept returning to dance. When I was about nine years old, I began taking jazz, tap, and ballet classes. I fell in love with dancing, learning the french terms, the costumes, and performing.

Throughout my pre teen years I took some time away from sports and comepted in a couple pageants before returning. In the eighth grade, I became a Tigette. I was hooked. The drill team aspect was like nothing I'd ever had before. The other girls on the team became my second families. Of course we fought and had our ups and downs, but we learned so much. We grew as individuals, dancers, and young women. That year gave me a better foundation for my dancing itself. I can still do most of the routines and it's been years since I performed as a Tigette.

The following summer, I had private training for a pageant in Oklahoma City. A young woman from my church was a teacher a the Jasinski Academy, (yes, the famous Jasinski family!) and blessed me with 6 hours of private training. This was my first solo routine, and I performed to "Keys to the Kingdom" by Group 1 Crew. (By the way, Group 1 Crew is an amazing christian trio!) I won the tri state pageant title that year but was beat in the talent division due to lack of dance floor...

A few months later, I enrolled at Beautiful Feet Studios. My teacher is the beautiful Pam Arroyo, and has several years of training and performances under her belt. Her daughters dance as well, including her middle daughter who is a Union Highstepper. I have been dancing at her studio for over a year now and Miss Pam definately pushes me to be the best dancer I can be. Not only has she helped me break in pointe shoes, but she has trained me for my second solo routine and spring recital. In August of 2010 we began my signature solo: Glamorous. I preformed it in the talent portion of Miss BA 2011 in February. Then Pam and I taught my new dance partner the routine which we performed together at the spring recital. I also performed on pointe for the first time at recital.

I'll be the first to admit I'm still an amataure and I'm still learning, but I am very passionate about dance. The events listed above are just a few of what I've done. I've been in other talent shows, The Nutcracker, and other things as well. This summer I am rehearsing for the August performance of Sleeping Beauty and preparing my next competition routine. The picture credits above go to Kelsey Higley.

Being a ballerina is a lot of glitz and glamour, but it's also pain, perserverence, and intellegence. As my teacher says, "There is no such thing as a dumb ballerina." However, I love what I do and I pray that God gives me the strength and guidance to continue to dance for Him.

An Unexpected Treasure

For those of you who know me, you are aware of my love for pageants. Ask me what I know and we could be here for hours. And believe it or not, I'm still an amateur! (competed in 5 pageants, with 2 sub category wins, and 1 tri state title). My most recent competition was this past February, here in Broken Arrow. I competed against 3 other beautiful girls for the title of Miss Broken Arrow's Outstanding Teen. Despite the fact that I was not able to bring the gorgeous crown home this year, I learned more than I thought possible. But the best thing I got out of the entire process, was a new friend.

Throughout the process I was clearly nervous, as this was my first time competing in the Miss America circuit, (the best by far). I learned not to judge people from the way they look as well. The first time I met the other girls, they didnt seem that nice. Really it was all just nerves. To this day, I am so thankful that I went throught it all with Aldyn Phillips.

Aldyn is a beautiful student at Union High School and is very deciated to her school work, her platform, her family, and her passion for piano. We helped each other prepare, and supported each other the entire weekend. During a stressful pageant weekend, having great room mates in your dressing room can have a huge impact on your mood and performance. We really were all in it together.

I am proud to say that Aldyn took home the 2011 title. She did an amazing job. She looked beautiful in all of her outfits and remained poised even when the rest of us were sweating in our spotlight. At the end of the night I recieved a text message from her telling me that I had done a wonderful job and that she couldn't wait to spend some quality time with me. That truly meant the world to me. Pageants are full of glitz and glamour, but here in the Miss America circuit, we support all of our fellow girls. Cattiness is out there but you won't find it here in BA.

In the following months, I attended events that Aldyn and Lydia Gray (Miss Broken Arrow 2011) appeared at and it was a wonderful experience. Not only am I supporting a dear friend, but preparing for next year. I am getting a first hand look at what her job truly is. Pictured above is Aldyn and I at the send off party for Lydia and Aldyn before the Miss Oklahome competition. (I am on the left, Adyn is on the right.)

So to Aldyn, thank you for everything. You have been such ana amazing friend to me and I can't thank you enough. I hope and pray that we continue to be there for each other. I am so proud of you for making Rookie Talent and getting into the top ten at Miss Oklahoma. You truly are a treasure. You will go far in life and I love you.

Bliss Addiction

Gather round ladies! If you are anything like me you love accessories, bling, style, and all of the above! Sometimes it's hard to find unique pieces without spending your entire paycheck. Fret not sweet girls, I have found the perfect solution. My beautiful coworker, Brittany Bolesky, has her very own business known as "Bliss Addiction."

Among other things she creates stunning belt buckles, bracelets, and other rhinestone covered treats. Her latest creation is feather clips. These are just like the feather extension/ weaves, but better. (and much much cheaper!) The clips come in many different colors and styles, and are longer ad more noticeable than the original fad starter. Plus these usually have beads as well. They are the perfect accessory to spice up a drab wardrobe. The feather clips start at $5 and go up from there.

Be sure to lie Bliss Addiction on facebook to see all her products, and recieve updates. Thanks for letting me share, Brittany. We wish you the best(: Above, is pictured a feather clip modeled by Brittany herself.

Ink's has done it again!

Well ladies and gentlemen, the competition is getting stiff. Recently our very own Ink's Shaved Ice has amazed us once again. On Monay, June 20, Glen invited my best friend Jon and I to come and test out his flavors.

But first, I need to clear a few things up. First of all, Ink's carries a total of 61 flavors, many of which are not listed on the side of the shack. So always be sure to ask what's new. Any time a customer asks for a partcicular flavor that is not carried, Glen writes and down and orders it special just for that customer. Also keep in mind that the dome on these snow cones may not always be snow cap perfect. However, Glen says that each snow cone is its own sculptured treat. Next on the list is extra syrup. The owner feels that charging for extra syrup is highly unnecessary, for those of youwho ned a little extra sugar in your diet. Lastly, the tee shirts come in pink, green, AND white (once again, they are $10).

Now I want to rave about these flavors. I have never tasted flavors this real! Each flavor taste exaclty like what it is named. So far my top favorites are yellow cake batter, cappucino, wedding cake mixed with blue coconut, canteloupe, and many others. I want to thank Glen and his wife Lindsay once again for allowing Jon and I to come try out their wonderful flavors, and for the awesome shirts. Represent!!!

Ink's Shaved Ice Review

Welcome back snow cone lovers! The Battle Continues for the most epic treat in BA. Our next contender is Ink's Shaved Ice. This fine establishment is located on the corner of 71st and Elm here in BA. It is owned by Glen and Lindsay Sykes, ( who are even sweeter tan the shaved ice!) and has many wonderful thngs to offer. So let's get started!

ICE: 9 The ice had a great consistency! Not chunky at all, and it didn't crumble out of the cup. There was not a complete dome, but just the right amount.

FLAVORS: 10 The selection and variety of the flvors is mind blowing! most shcks have the same flavors and combos, but not here they have the most unique flavors including bahama mama, dill pickle, cappuccino, toasted coconut, and many more. (Glen also wants everyone to know there are 21 more flavors on the way!)

PRESENTAION: 9 Everything looked great!! No complaints here

SHACK: 10 This shack is insanely adorable! You can't miss it! It's hot pink and green and has great decor.

OTHER: 10 The shack offers T-shirts ($10 in pink or green) and the owners were extremely hospitable! The shack also has punch cards available for the frequent flyers.

Congratualtions! Ink's has earned 48 of the total 50 points! I like forward to visiting again to test out those unique flavors and snag my very own pink tee. Above Ihave pictured four year old little Tatum enjoying a sno cone in front of the shack on a hot day in June! Also looking forward to passing out awards at the end of the summer.

Heartbreak Part Two

Heartbreak...man, painful even to type!

Well, to those of you that follow, I feel like I left out quite a bit.
First, I wanted to bring up another coping mechanism, I love to write letters. I also love to write letters to people I may never see or talk to etc. For example: ladies, write a letter to your ex man! He will most likely never read it but getting what you would say to him down on paper feels so good!

Next, our right hand lady, Krista has brought us some quotes. (These are just some I like, they are not directly pointed at anyone.)
1. Relationships are like glass, sometimes it's better to leave them broken then to try to hurt yourself putting it back together.
2. I don't miss him, I miss who I thought he was.
3. Some people think that it's holding on that makes on strong; sometimes it's letting go.
4.If you're going to make me cry, at least be there to wipe awy the tears
5. Trying to forget someone you love, is like trying to remember someone you never met
6. It takes seconds to say hello, but forever to say goodbye.
7. Love can sometimes be magic. But sometimes magic is just an illusion.
And I'm sure there are many more!

Josh's Snow Shack Review

Let the quest for the best snow cone in BA begin!

First as an intro let me tell you what this is all about! I worked at a snow cone shack for a few weeks last summer, and I've been hooked ever since. I am here to help rate and review all the shacks in the Broken Arrow. Each shack will be rated in various categories. Then at the end of the summer I will give awards for various categories and then the grand award of "BA's best Snow Cone Shack of 2011". Good luck!

Our first contender is close to my heart: Josh's Snow Shack on 71st and Garnett

ICE: 9 The ice is a great consistancy, and it doesnt freeze into chunks by the time you get to the bottom of the cup

FLAVORS: 9 The flavors are excellent and the sign outside the shack is extremely user friendly. There are endless possibilities and my favorite part, is they don't turn your mouth colors.

PRESENTATION: 8 The syrup stayed in the cup and there was the perfect amount. The ice was right below the brim. Which was perfect for on the go and easy to maintain.

SHACK: 10 The shack is very large and open, with two windows for order an pick up. There is music playing outside, shade trees and picnic tables.

OTHER: 10 The service was great, and the attendants were very polite. The shack also sells T-shirts ($10) and bumber stickers ($1)

Congratualtions Josh's! At your first round of the summer you have earned 46 points out of a possible 50! Above I have pictured Krista and I on our trip on June 6th. I got a small fuzzy navel with a hint of coconut, and she got a mix of coconut, banana, and vanilla. They hit that sweet spot for sure!

It will feel like it, but it's not the end of the world.

The dreaded "B" word has come upon us. It feels terrible just saying it. You know..."break up." Ouch. Unfortanutely, I can't say I didn't see it comig but I most definitely am not enjoying it. Within the last 24 hours, my boyfriend of almost 5 months and I have split up. Out of respect, I will leave as many details of the story out as possible. (You can thank me later..)

Therefore, I want to share some insight to all my other girls out there who are goung through the same thing. (Or need to very quikly). First of all: it will feel like the end of the world for a while, but it's not. It's going to hurt. It's going to cloud your brain, make you sad, make you irritable, and keep you up at night. That is all pretty normal. The tough part is when other people ask a million questions or bring up other possibilities of "what if"s. Or when the try to trivialize your pain. Just because you are young does not mean that you did not care for the person and truly have a relationship.

The next part is realizing that venting is good. I am the queen of "let me come cry on your shoulder!" That is perfectly okay as well. In fact, I recommend doing that! But here is where a red flag comes in: be careful not to stretch the story, or tell too many people. Put the story on a need-to-know basis. Otherwise you end up making yourself look bad, and opinions of both parties form that should not be. I've also learned the hard way that bashing, or negatively talking about someone does not help anyone. It may make you feel better for that second, but in the end it does the opposite of good.

I also have my own list of remedies:

1. venting

2. write it out! (That is what I'm doing now and believe me it helps!)

3. take all photos and rminders down. Do not throw them away until you have thought that through, so fornow just get them out of sight.

4. change you facebook status and picture. (ths should be a given)

5. change pictures and little things in your phone dedicated to him, etc.

6. make a playlist for how you feel. ( I'll post mine later in the article)

7. Exercixe. The adrenaline helps clear you mind and will make you feel great and look great.

8. Load up on junk food. Find your comfort food and stock up! (If it helps, you can work out after you finish crying)

9. This next one is for the strong ones: write a list about the good things and bad things that your break up is resulting in. It will help you sort out the internal battle.

10. Do projects or things you have beenputting off, or request extra days at work just to keep your mind busy.

11. Remember not to stay down long. This only gives them power over you. Cry it all out, then get back up and show the world what a strong woman you are.

12. This by far is the most important: Pray. Only the Lord can give you the true strength you need. (which will also help you sleep!)

So ladies, I know it's tough. Believe me, I know. But these are our learning years. To figure out who we are and how we click, and how we click with others. It's extremely easy to get our hopes up, or expect far too much out of someone who clearly does not take hints, but that just means there is something bette out there. When one door closes,an even sparklier one opens.

All right, so I promised yo my playlist. Here it is, for those of you who are music junkies like myself. Some of these songs are break up (ouch..there is that word again) based and some are not, but they all have soothing melodies.

1. You're Beautiful- James Blunt

2. What Goes Around- Justin Timberlake

3. Who Says- Selens Gomez

4. Super Bass- Nicki Minaj

5. Right There- Nicole Scherzinger

6. Kiss N Tell- Kesha

7. All Yours- Meric

8. The Big Bang- Rock Mafia

9. Heart of Gold- Ashlyne Huff

10. Dreams- Manafest

Before I sign off, I wuld like to give a specia thanks to all my girls! I could not get through without you! Krista (pictured above on my left), Aldyn, Jakeh, my sister Brandi, and anyone else that has helped me through. You guys are amazing and you mean the world to me.

So remember- It will feel like it, but it's not the end of the world. I am on my way to work now, to keep my mind busy and I'm not going to let this keep me down. Look out world, I am a strong and independent woman!

Goodbye's Don't Truly Exsist

Have you ever had someone that means a lot to you move out of state? Recently my friends and I went throught this, and it was completely new to me.

In September of my sophomore year, my friend Clay moved to Denver as a result of a job transfer his Dad had been given. (Clay is in the green shirt). This really crushed my friend Audie who was very close to Clay, but we all did what we could to help her through. They had been best friends since the 6th grade. (I became friends with the gang in 7th). Personally, I could tell countless stories of great times with him. Including the time that he and I were texting and he casually mentioned he was on his way to the emergency room. He still had braces on at the time, and had slipped on a piece of playground equipment, severly busting his lip. He ended up going home with a face full of stitches and a really funny story to tell.

Everyone has great memories of Clay before he left, and saying "goodbye" was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. But it has also taught me something: goodbye's don't truly exsist. Over the 2011 Memorial Day weekend, Clay and his family came back to visit. Audie got a group of his friends together and we spent a few hours cherishing our rare moments with Clay and relaxing at the park.

When someone leaves, it feels like the end of the friendship. In reality, that may be true but the chances of a true friendship ending so abruptly are very slim. It's easy to let flesh emotions take control and let our hearts break but we have to remember that God is in control. So don't say goodbye, say see you later. In my book, goodbye's truly don't exsist.

Welcome!

Welcome to my blog! My name is Natasha Facinelli. I am 16 years old and I am here to tell you about my experiences growing up here in Broken Arrow. I am an avid christian, and you guessed it...ballerina. This is the beginning of an action packed summer and I'm so glad youare along for the ride.





Feel free to leave comments on any of my posts. I love getting feedback.


Throughout the summer I will be going on a quest for the best snow cone in BA, preparing for the production of Sleeping Beauty (hosted by th South Tulsa Children's Ballet), going on vacation, posting great deals and trends, and preparing for the plethora of things coming up this fall. I hope you can keep up!