January
I can't remember anything noteworthy that happened in the baby months of 2011. To be honest, for quite a while I thought the year was going to be a dud.
February
Ditto.
March
I turned 23, and it was my worst birthday yet. A friend was going to come up and visit, but she got sick and had to cancel last minute. My mom took me for coffee in Peoria Heights, but mostly I sat around moping at my lack of festivities.
April
My Grandpa McGarrah died in April. He was very old, but death always seems sudden. He was the first relative of mine to die in a long time. Roy came home for the funeral, and Easter was better with him home, but all in all....well, losing a grandpa is never fun.
May
Here things took a turn for the better.
The college group and I planned the 30 Hour Famine weekend with Wendy, and I had a blast. We built a shelter outdoors with only cardboard, tarp, and duct tape. Of course, it rained that night, and as guardian of the door, I remained under my rip in the tarp the whole time. As a result, the next day I was quite soggy, but exhilarated. Adventure!
June
As Youth Services Librarian, I ran my first Summer Reading Program, to great success, to me at least. I doubled the number of programs, had some fun entertainment, and loved chatting with people about what they were reading.
This is the month Laura was my librarian helper, and what I really loved about the SRP was sitting at a table with her for eight hours, talking about God and TV and college. She introduced me to the latest love of my life, the Doctor.
July
I went to Mongolia for three weeks! I discovered that Gany really and truly is my kindred spirit. I only got homesick once. I spent the night on stranger's floors, crushed bugs that had crawled up my pants leg, and went to the bathroom in squattie potties and open fields. I visited Byamba and Sarangoo, made friends with a Mongolian youth group, and lived with orphans for three days.
I decided that if God wanted me to work at an orphanage, He would have to make it abundantly clear, because my short experience was completely overwhelming. I fell in love with Usukhbayar and Amraa, and I felt comfortable in the city of Ulaanbaatar. I decided to return before I ever left.
August
I threw my favorite library party to date. A Harry Potter extravaganza, where people were sorted into Hogwarts houses, went to Hogwarts classes, and then watched the latest HP movie. I dressed up as Dumbledore, and I'm pretty sure I had more fun than any of the kids.
September
I WENT TO HARRY POTTER WORLD. A years-long dream of Stephanie's and mine made real! We took our friends Amanda and Laura, and the four of us stayed in a condo/hotel. For a weekend we partied in Universal, constantly returning to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where I felt like I'd stepped into the pages of one of my favorite stories. Everyone should get to experience that feeling.
This month was also very sad, because my beloved puppy Misty was put to sleep after having a third seizure. Unable to live without a pet, I quickly chose a kitten from the Pouillys, named him Rory, and I have been spoiling him ever since.
October
My darling friend Ashley Pashley was married! I bridesmaided for her, made some new friends, and had an almost complete Craig 3 reunion. I got very nostalgic, and ate up every moment that Ashley, Whitney, and I had together. Now they are both married women, and my brain still does not quite comprehend!
November
I visited Jennie and Dusty to celebrate Dusty's birthday. He is quite cool, because Union threw a party that weekend including fireworks and a hot air balloon! (Or maybe it was for Union's Homecoming.) I went up in the balloon, thus completing another event from my bucket list!
December
I went to Kansas City for two college friend's wedding, got to hang out with Stephanie one last time before her move, and generally adored dancing and hanging out with my Adventure Points college friends.
To finish out the year, and ring in the new, I went to Texas (a new state for me!) to visit Liz and have many adventures and good times! Time will tell if that was accomplished.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Detroit Airport
Sometimes I feel like memories are less images that I choose to call to mind, and more sentient emotions, gut punching me when I'm not looking.
I think I was aware that the Detroit Airport was a layover from Memphis to Istanbul on that life-changing Union mission trip three years ago. But when I descended an escalator to enter the tunnel from Concourse C to Concourse A, and that airy music hit my ears and I saw the psychedelic walls changing color...it was visceral. I vividly remembered riding on the moving walkways with Brandon Lokey, Stephanie, and Sarah. We took pictures and laughed and made first steps towards deep friendships.
After the tunnel I saw the fountain near which we all sat, waiting for the plane that would take us to Turkey. Those were the trees where Chris told Erin lots of birds lived. I remember thinking she was stupid for believing they were real, until it turned out they were. And of course, six months later she would be my roommate.
This airport is a big deal to me, apparently. My brain saved a lot of events that happened here. That's fitting, I suppose, considering what a huge deal that trip was for my social life and future plans.
I think I was aware that the Detroit Airport was a layover from Memphis to Istanbul on that life-changing Union mission trip three years ago. But when I descended an escalator to enter the tunnel from Concourse C to Concourse A, and that airy music hit my ears and I saw the psychedelic walls changing color...it was visceral. I vividly remembered riding on the moving walkways with Brandon Lokey, Stephanie, and Sarah. We took pictures and laughed and made first steps towards deep friendships.
After the tunnel I saw the fountain near which we all sat, waiting for the plane that would take us to Turkey. Those were the trees where Chris told Erin lots of birds lived. I remember thinking she was stupid for believing they were real, until it turned out they were. And of course, six months later she would be my roommate.
This airport is a big deal to me, apparently. My brain saved a lot of events that happened here. That's fitting, I suppose, considering what a huge deal that trip was for my social life and future plans.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Things I Love: Ff
Final Fantasy
When I was less than 10, my brother got Final Fantasy 7 for the computer. Every time he sat down to play it, I materialized next to him. Whether he liked it or not, my eyes were glued to the screen as Cloud took down the evil Shinra corporation, battled evil Sephiroth, and remembered flashes of his hidden past.
The day finally came when Roy finished the game. It was my turn. I gleefully learned how to control the game myself, and replayed the entire 50-hour game. Since then, I've bought and played FF8, FF9, FF10, FF10-2, FF12, and FF7: Crisis Core. Not to mention the fact that I've replayed most of the games at least once, with FF7 (my favorite, partly because of nostalgia, partly because of the "WHAT WHERE DID THAT REVEAL COME FROM!?" mind-blowing plot) clocking in at at least five replays.
A huge amount of my memory space is wound around these games. I remember Tifa telling Cloud that they didn't need to wake up yet, because the sun would keep rising regardless or something, and Roy and I giggled madly, determined to use that excuse to get out of school. Every time I hear "Walkin' On the Sun" I think of sitting at the computer with the radio on. I remember Roy coming home for break when he was in college and watching me play the newest Final Fantasy game. Mom came in to talk to us, and she got mad at me for not paying attention. Finally Roy snapped, "Mom, this is really important information, and she can't pause it!" I was so pleased.
I learned how to download music because I wanted the songs from the various FF games. I learned to play several of them on the piano. I found fanfiction because I couldn't handle the end of the games meaning the end of those characters. Two of the games made me cry.
I....really like these games, okay?
Fishbowl
Lindsay introduced me to this game. It's a mix of taboo and charades, and it is always hilarious! I love playing it at the Monahan's house with a big crowd of people shouting and laughing. I love playing it in Senegal, where I will always fondly remember Mallory miming giving birth on the floor of a guest house in Dakar, surrounded by missionary families watching in horror and confusion. She was trying to get them to guess "Bourne Identity."
Fruits Basket
My first anime love. During the one semester Carah lived with my Craig 3 sisters, she let me borrow them out of curiosity. After classes, I popped the first DVD in. Whitney walked by and laughed. Five minutes later she joined me on the couch. Then Josephine returned from lab and made fun of us. After hearing us laugh out loud several times, she perched on the couch arm. A few minutes later, she had slid onto a cushion.
The three of us spent the next two days devouring the rest of the series.
I love Fruits Basket because it is charmingly absurd. A family turns into animals from the zodiac when hugged by members of the opposite sex! So many jokes to be made. But instead of sticking to strict comedy, the show delves into the tragic side--What if your mother rejected you because you were a freak? What if you could never have physical contact with people for fear of transforming in front of them?
There are three episodes in particular that make me bawl like a baby. And then the rest have me cracking up. I love that a lot of Japanese television doesn't stick to one genre. All emotions are welcome!
Fandom
Loving something is wonderful. I thoroughly enjoy being a nerd and getting obsessively excited about TV shows or movies or books. But the really great thing is finding other people who are just as passionate as I am. Sometimes that happens in real life. I call those people my kindred spirits.
But when real life won't provide what I need, the interwebs come to the rescue! It is nice to know that somewhere in the world, someone loves Doctor Who or LotR or Harry Potter as much as me. And often (okay, always) there are people who love it more! And they create fanvideos and fanart and fanfiction. I love it all! I spend many an hour enjoying creations inspired by favorite stories.
You can find the Doctor kissing the TARDIS (it's like biting, only there's a winner!), or...
Immediately after Sherlock Holmes: Game of Shadows was released, fandom was creating art! This time making the BBC Sherlock characters take on the gag from the American movie.
That's not even getting into fanfiction or fanvideos. Because you can waste away your life watching or reading those. The interwebs and fandoms are so vast!
Fridays
Because for me, they are Saturdays. No work! I can sleep in! If I want to travel, I automatically have a three-day weekend of time!
My job is wonderful.
When I was less than 10, my brother got Final Fantasy 7 for the computer. Every time he sat down to play it, I materialized next to him. Whether he liked it or not, my eyes were glued to the screen as Cloud took down the evil Shinra corporation, battled evil Sephiroth, and remembered flashes of his hidden past.
The day finally came when Roy finished the game. It was my turn. I gleefully learned how to control the game myself, and replayed the entire 50-hour game. Since then, I've bought and played FF8, FF9, FF10, FF10-2, FF12, and FF7: Crisis Core. Not to mention the fact that I've replayed most of the games at least once, with FF7 (my favorite, partly because of nostalgia, partly because of the "WHAT WHERE DID THAT REVEAL COME FROM!?" mind-blowing plot) clocking in at at least five replays.
A huge amount of my memory space is wound around these games. I remember Tifa telling Cloud that they didn't need to wake up yet, because the sun would keep rising regardless or something, and Roy and I giggled madly, determined to use that excuse to get out of school. Every time I hear "Walkin' On the Sun" I think of sitting at the computer with the radio on. I remember Roy coming home for break when he was in college and watching me play the newest Final Fantasy game. Mom came in to talk to us, and she got mad at me for not paying attention. Finally Roy snapped, "Mom, this is really important information, and she can't pause it!" I was so pleased.
I learned how to download music because I wanted the songs from the various FF games. I learned to play several of them on the piano. I found fanfiction because I couldn't handle the end of the games meaning the end of those characters. Two of the games made me cry.
I....really like these games, okay?
Fishbowl
Lindsay introduced me to this game. It's a mix of taboo and charades, and it is always hilarious! I love playing it at the Monahan's house with a big crowd of people shouting and laughing. I love playing it in Senegal, where I will always fondly remember Mallory miming giving birth on the floor of a guest house in Dakar, surrounded by missionary families watching in horror and confusion. She was trying to get them to guess "Bourne Identity."
Fruits Basket
My first anime love. During the one semester Carah lived with my Craig 3 sisters, she let me borrow them out of curiosity. After classes, I popped the first DVD in. Whitney walked by and laughed. Five minutes later she joined me on the couch. Then Josephine returned from lab and made fun of us. After hearing us laugh out loud several times, she perched on the couch arm. A few minutes later, she had slid onto a cushion.
The three of us spent the next two days devouring the rest of the series.
I love Fruits Basket because it is charmingly absurd. A family turns into animals from the zodiac when hugged by members of the opposite sex! So many jokes to be made. But instead of sticking to strict comedy, the show delves into the tragic side--What if your mother rejected you because you were a freak? What if you could never have physical contact with people for fear of transforming in front of them?
There are three episodes in particular that make me bawl like a baby. And then the rest have me cracking up. I love that a lot of Japanese television doesn't stick to one genre. All emotions are welcome!
Their love is epic. This scene makes me squee. I may have watched it multiple times with a roommate who would probably prefer to remain unnamed.
Also, Kyo is adorable if extremely volatile. And Tohru was sickeningly perfect at first, but I've come to really love her. I want to imitate her easygoing attitude and unconditional love for friends and family. She's pretty fantastic.
Fandom
Loving something is wonderful. I thoroughly enjoy being a nerd and getting obsessively excited about TV shows or movies or books. But the really great thing is finding other people who are just as passionate as I am. Sometimes that happens in real life. I call those people my kindred spirits.
But when real life won't provide what I need, the interwebs come to the rescue! It is nice to know that somewhere in the world, someone loves Doctor Who or LotR or Harry Potter as much as me. And often (okay, always) there are people who love it more! And they create fanvideos and fanart and fanfiction. I love it all! I spend many an hour enjoying creations inspired by favorite stories.
You can find the Doctor kissing the TARDIS (it's like biting, only there's a winner!), or...
The Broship of the Rings (oh man, look up all the pictures, they're brilliant) doing Christmas. With Legolas showing off. Or....
Immediately after Sherlock Holmes: Game of Shadows was released, fandom was creating art! This time making the BBC Sherlock characters take on the gag from the American movie.
That's not even getting into fanfiction or fanvideos. Because you can waste away your life watching or reading those. The interwebs and fandoms are so vast!
Fridays
Because for me, they are Saturdays. No work! I can sleep in! If I want to travel, I automatically have a three-day weekend of time!
My job is wonderful.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Winter Wonderland Christmas Fortress
Yesterday was glorious! I went to the normal Tuesday Night Dinner at the Monahan's, and it was wonderfully atypical. (I like the way it normally is, but this was a very nice change.) The whole Wineinger family was there, plus Sarah, who I have not hung out with in ages. In fact, Lindsay and Sarah and I reminisced about the time we went to see Spiderman in theaters NINE YEARS AGO, and Lindsay yelled at the screen, "Toby!" during a dramatic moment.
We ate pizza, Sarah compared which Richwoods teachers were alive, dead, or still teaching with the Monahan kids, and then we left to continue the fun at church.
When we got there, Wendy's Sunday School class: Grown Up Edition sat on the counters in the kitchen for a Circle of Complaining.
Sarah: I hate that the only thing people seem to care about is whether I'm dating someone or not!
Lindsay: I hate that the only thing people seem to care about is whether I'm pregnant or not!
Wendy: I hate that the only thing people seem to care about is whether I have a job or not!
There is no stage in your life when people will be satisfied with who you are. How....utterly sad. Note to self: stop asking about the things people are not, and start asking about who they are.
The Monahans and Wineingers went to the gym to play an epic family vs. family volleyball game, but Sarah and I opted out to 1) avoid humiliation, and 2) make a Winter Wonderland Christmas Fortress. My extended family had given me a hilariously huge slab of Rice Krispie Treats for Christmas, and Wendy donated some icing and sprinkles. Sarah and I quickly turned all of that into a masterpiece.
I haven't done something so silly and creative in a long time. We kept squirming in our seats and jumping around from the sheer awesomeness of it all.
After we had finished our creation, Sarah and I watched the last two volleyball games and made up insanely creative cheers to inspire the teams. They weren't inspired. But once the ball flew toward our "safe" spot on the sidelines, and I promptly shrieked and threw my arms over my head....including the cup of red fruit punch I was holding. Thankfully it splattered on the carpet (and came up neatly when I cleaned it) and not on me. But the point was made: this is why I do not play sports where balls fly at your face.
When they finally tired of playing, Sarah and I unveiled our masterpiece and judged people on their level of excitement. I now know who my true friends are. Lindsay then stuck her face on a tower and Josh bit off the top of each turret, and it was officially a free-for-all. Our fortress ended up losing the battle, but I like to think our stomachs won.
We ate pizza, Sarah compared which Richwoods teachers were alive, dead, or still teaching with the Monahan kids, and then we left to continue the fun at church.
When we got there, Wendy's Sunday School class: Grown Up Edition sat on the counters in the kitchen for a Circle of Complaining.
Sarah: I hate that the only thing people seem to care about is whether I'm dating someone or not!
Lindsay: I hate that the only thing people seem to care about is whether I'm pregnant or not!
Wendy: I hate that the only thing people seem to care about is whether I have a job or not!
There is no stage in your life when people will be satisfied with who you are. How....utterly sad. Note to self: stop asking about the things people are not, and start asking about who they are.
The Monahans and Wineingers went to the gym to play an epic family vs. family volleyball game, but Sarah and I opted out to 1) avoid humiliation, and 2) make a Winter Wonderland Christmas Fortress. My extended family had given me a hilariously huge slab of Rice Krispie Treats for Christmas, and Wendy donated some icing and sprinkles. Sarah and I quickly turned all of that into a masterpiece.
I haven't done something so silly and creative in a long time. We kept squirming in our seats and jumping around from the sheer awesomeness of it all.
After we had finished our creation, Sarah and I watched the last two volleyball games and made up insanely creative cheers to inspire the teams. They weren't inspired. But once the ball flew toward our "safe" spot on the sidelines, and I promptly shrieked and threw my arms over my head....including the cup of red fruit punch I was holding. Thankfully it splattered on the carpet (and came up neatly when I cleaned it) and not on me. But the point was made: this is why I do not play sports where balls fly at your face.
When they finally tired of playing, Sarah and I unveiled our masterpiece and judged people on their level of excitement. I now know who my true friends are. Lindsay then stuck her face on a tower and Josh bit off the top of each turret, and it was officially a free-for-all. Our fortress ended up losing the battle, but I like to think our stomachs won.
Friday, December 23, 2011
I Want a Magical Wardrobe
I showed The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe at the library yesterday. I guess I haven't seen it for awhile, because it hit me like an emotional sledgehammer all over again. It is very nearly a perfect movie. I said this to Laura today, and she got hesitant.
Laura: Yeah, for a kid's movie.
Me: Excuse me!? And for adult movies.
Laura: But when they fight, there's no blood on the swords.
Me: Oh, well, yeah, I totally don't mind and actually like that.
If she had other unflattering opinions, she wisely kept them to herself in lieu of finding smashed potatoes flung in her water.
What I mean is, I really love that movie. It makes me feel all the emotions! And I figured out why. Obviously there is the story of Jesus, and the scene where the creepy crawlies cut off his mane and the White Witch whispers in his ear that he has failed, so despair and die....UGH. And Aslan reappearing, and yeah, that stuff is obviously fantastic to Christians.
But that is not the only story of redemption going on. This movie is about a broken family, a broken country, a broken boy symbolizing a broken humanity...and slowly, each of these things are redeemed. The sibling hug is beautiful like the kings and queens of Narnia ruling peacefully is beautiful like Edmund destroying the White Witch's magic is beautiful like Aslan dying for a traitor is beautiful.
Brokeness and redemption. That's what The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is all about.
Bonus scene. Before Peter and Susan believe that Lucy has discovered Narnia, they ask the professor about it. He asks them if she is mad, and they say no. He asks if she lies frequently, and they say no, usually she's very honest. Then the professor says, "well, if she's not a lunatic and she's not lying, we must conclude she's telling the truth."
I SEE WHUT YOU DID THAR. Way to sneak in Lewis's famous argument in defense of Jesus, proposing that by his claims, he must either be a lunatic, a liar, or telling the truth that he is Lord.
So clever.
Such a fantastic film!
Laura: Yeah, for a kid's movie.
Me: Excuse me!? And for adult movies.
Laura: But when they fight, there's no blood on the swords.
Me: Oh, well, yeah, I totally don't mind and actually like that.
If she had other unflattering opinions, she wisely kept them to herself in lieu of finding smashed potatoes flung in her water.
What I mean is, I really love that movie. It makes me feel all the emotions! And I figured out why. Obviously there is the story of Jesus, and the scene where the creepy crawlies cut off his mane and the White Witch whispers in his ear that he has failed, so despair and die....UGH. And Aslan reappearing, and yeah, that stuff is obviously fantastic to Christians.
But that is not the only story of redemption going on. This movie is about a broken family, a broken country, a broken boy symbolizing a broken humanity...and slowly, each of these things are redeemed. The sibling hug is beautiful like the kings and queens of Narnia ruling peacefully is beautiful like Edmund destroying the White Witch's magic is beautiful like Aslan dying for a traitor is beautiful.
Brokeness and redemption. That's what The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is all about.
Bonus scene. Before Peter and Susan believe that Lucy has discovered Narnia, they ask the professor about it. He asks them if she is mad, and they say no. He asks if she lies frequently, and they say no, usually she's very honest. Then the professor says, "well, if she's not a lunatic and she's not lying, we must conclude she's telling the truth."
I SEE WHUT YOU DID THAR. Way to sneak in Lewis's famous argument in defense of Jesus, proposing that by his claims, he must either be a lunatic, a liar, or telling the truth that he is Lord.
So clever.
Such a fantastic film!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
College Nostalgia
Road trips + weddings + old friends = a really awesome weekend.
This Friday, Amber and Seth became a Mr. and Mrs. They were friends of Stephanie's, and therefore became my friends during my last year at Union. With them I dressed up for Jim & Pam's TV wedding, ate lunch in Coburn, and explored forests. They got married in Kansas City, and since most of my friends were in the wedding party, I coerced Emily to come with me as my +1.
Turns out that was probably unnecessary, but I'm super glad she came with me anyway. Trading off driving and having someone to talk to makes a 7-hour drive go by much faster!
I had a new adult first when I got a hotel room by myself. Emily and I went there to change, then headed to the wedding ceremony. It was super cute, and a nice mix of funny with classy. I sat with Stephanie's mom, which was nice, since I kind of think of her as my Memphis mom.
The reception was fantastic. I caught up a bit with Kevin and Cameron. I haven't really talked to either of them since graduating, and I was surprised how quickly we fell into a silly banter conversation. Stephanie and Elizabeth didn't have to act as bridesmaids for long, so we hung out a lot, plus Amanda (who went to Harry Potter World with us) and a girl named Lauren that I kind of know.
The dancing was insane. It was definitely the most consistently crowded dance floor I've ever seen. Everyone was stupid dancing and having a brilliant time. I completely adored it all.
Stephanie and Elizabeth ended up staying the night at the hotel with Emily and I. We only had a king sized bed, so three of us shared that, and Elizabeth took the chair. I...really love that. Friendships that can spontaneously change up sleeping plans, and cram into uncomfortable situations, and not care, because we're friends.
The next morning Stephanie drove us around Kansas City, since she grew up there. It is a cool city! We stopped at the City Market, and got pastries and coffee and ate and talked. We dropped Elizabeth off at the airport, then filled up the car with gas at Quick Trip, in honor of Seth, because it is his favorite. We ate lunch at Chick-fil-a, and said goodbye to Stephanie. The next time I see her will be in Central Asia!
I haven't been very nostalgic about college lately. But this weekend....very much made me so. I guess hanging out with the kids I spent my most recent college time with was what did it. My most recent memories are with them. I spent every Thursday night in Stephanie's dorm for a semester. We had adventure points. They were the first group of people I was friends with (because before them it was my Craig 3 sisters, and we were fairly exclusive). They are so crazy and like to do crazy things!
I had a perfectly lovely time, but now I miss that life. I'm really glad I got to revisit it for a weekend.
This Friday, Amber and Seth became a Mr. and Mrs. They were friends of Stephanie's, and therefore became my friends during my last year at Union. With them I dressed up for Jim & Pam's TV wedding, ate lunch in Coburn, and explored forests. They got married in Kansas City, and since most of my friends were in the wedding party, I coerced Emily to come with me as my +1.
Turns out that was probably unnecessary, but I'm super glad she came with me anyway. Trading off driving and having someone to talk to makes a 7-hour drive go by much faster!
I had a new adult first when I got a hotel room by myself. Emily and I went there to change, then headed to the wedding ceremony. It was super cute, and a nice mix of funny with classy. I sat with Stephanie's mom, which was nice, since I kind of think of her as my Memphis mom.
The reception was fantastic. I caught up a bit with Kevin and Cameron. I haven't really talked to either of them since graduating, and I was surprised how quickly we fell into a silly banter conversation. Stephanie and Elizabeth didn't have to act as bridesmaids for long, so we hung out a lot, plus Amanda (who went to Harry Potter World with us) and a girl named Lauren that I kind of know.
The dancing was insane. It was definitely the most consistently crowded dance floor I've ever seen. Everyone was stupid dancing and having a brilliant time. I completely adored it all.
Stephanie and Elizabeth ended up staying the night at the hotel with Emily and I. We only had a king sized bed, so three of us shared that, and Elizabeth took the chair. I...really love that. Friendships that can spontaneously change up sleeping plans, and cram into uncomfortable situations, and not care, because we're friends.
The next morning Stephanie drove us around Kansas City, since she grew up there. It is a cool city! We stopped at the City Market, and got pastries and coffee and ate and talked. We dropped Elizabeth off at the airport, then filled up the car with gas at Quick Trip, in honor of Seth, because it is his favorite. We ate lunch at Chick-fil-a, and said goodbye to Stephanie. The next time I see her will be in Central Asia!
I haven't been very nostalgic about college lately. But this weekend....very much made me so. I guess hanging out with the kids I spent my most recent college time with was what did it. My most recent memories are with them. I spent every Thursday night in Stephanie's dorm for a semester. We had adventure points. They were the first group of people I was friends with (because before them it was my Craig 3 sisters, and we were fairly exclusive). They are so crazy and like to do crazy things!
I had a perfectly lovely time, but now I miss that life. I'm really glad I got to revisit it for a weekend.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Way To Be, C.S. Lewis
I just read a book of essays written by C.S. Lewis, and in one he talks about the faith of Christians in the face of contradictory evidence. Why do we believe in God, believe that He is good and loves us, when there are so many scientific and philosophical arguments to the contrary?
I love Lewis because he never explains things the way I would. Lewis explains faith like this. If Christianity were simply a philosophical idea, then yes, faith in the face of scientific or experiencial evidence would be stupid. But if Christianity is the belief in a personal God, in this God, then things are quite different. It's like that feeling of embarrassment when we get mad at a friend for being late to a party, and ten minutes later they show with an explanation for where they'd been. If only we had known them more, trusted them more, then we would have waited. We would have had faith.
Everything changes when religion is not about rules and ideas. My faith is based on a knowledge of a God who loves me, interacts with me, and takes care of me. I will trust in Him because I know Him.
I love Lewis because he never explains things the way I would. Lewis explains faith like this. If Christianity were simply a philosophical idea, then yes, faith in the face of scientific or experiencial evidence would be stupid. But if Christianity is the belief in a personal God, in this God, then things are quite different. It's like that feeling of embarrassment when we get mad at a friend for being late to a party, and ten minutes later they show with an explanation for where they'd been. If only we had known them more, trusted them more, then we would have waited. We would have had faith.
Everything changes when religion is not about rules and ideas. My faith is based on a knowledge of a God who loves me, interacts with me, and takes care of me. I will trust in Him because I know Him.
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Who Knew Skipping Church Could Feel So Good?
The holidays really are a bittersweet time of year. I feel like there is something significant missing from nearly every sphere of my life, and those holes are more apparent during happy holiday times.
Most of the time, those absences merely combine to form a general dissatisfaction with life. I've become used to that, and most of the time I don't think about it. But the past few days I've been a bit overwhelmed. So after first service, I went home. Side bar: It's super weird to go out and return home by 9:15 in the morning.
With the help of my cuddly, purry cat and then a night of playing Fishbowl with friends, I'm feeling better. Even though I sorely miss having friends to talk to, deep and personal and often, my friends in Peoria never fail to make me laugh. And 95% of the time, that's enough.
Most of the time, those absences merely combine to form a general dissatisfaction with life. I've become used to that, and most of the time I don't think about it. But the past few days I've been a bit overwhelmed. So after first service, I went home. Side bar: It's super weird to go out and return home by 9:15 in the morning.
With the help of my cuddly, purry cat and then a night of playing Fishbowl with friends, I'm feeling better. Even though I sorely miss having friends to talk to, deep and personal and often, my friends in Peoria never fail to make me laugh. And 95% of the time, that's enough.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Kids and HIMYM
I have thoughts about this weeks How I Met Your Mother, because it was actually kind of thinky! And relevant to my interests.
Robin is a career-minded woman who doesn't want kids. She thinks she is pregnant, then finds out the exact opposite is true--she can never have kids. She then has a mini-breakdown.
I was watching with squint-eyes, because I hate the idea that all women, no matter how anti-baby, will inevitably fall under the sway of babypower. I myself am not hugely baby-centric. I joke about not wanting kids, but really, I figure it'll happen. In fact, if we have an honest conversation, I will tell you I want either zero or a bunch. And I've said before that if it ended up that I were unable to have kids, I would be okay with that (mainly because of my desire to adopt regardless).
I still feel those things, I think. But HIMYM opened me up to....I dunno. More feelings? What I mean is, I really liked how they handled it! Robin's reaction rang true when she said there is a difference between not wanting something and having that something not even be a possibility. I get that. There's a bit of selfishness, of wanting control. There's also some honesty, that somewhere deep down she liked the idea of maybe having a kid or two.
I really liked her monologue about not having kids meaning she could travel and work and not be bogged down by anything because my face was like, "YOU ARE SPEAKING MY BRAIN." And in the end, the voiceover tells us she did go on to do great things, travel awesome places, and fulfill life goals.
But that doesn't discount the tragedy.
I don't know how much sense I'm making. This all just felt like it was related to my brainspace, and I came away thinking that if I cannot have kids....I'll be sad. I can admit that. It would suck to be unable to have kids. But if that happens, my life is not over. My usefulness is not over. I can still be awesome and do awesome things.
I always knew my life wouldn't be over. I didn't think I'd grieve.
Look at me, growing and learning because of a sitcom.
Robin is a career-minded woman who doesn't want kids. She thinks she is pregnant, then finds out the exact opposite is true--she can never have kids. She then has a mini-breakdown.
I was watching with squint-eyes, because I hate the idea that all women, no matter how anti-baby, will inevitably fall under the sway of babypower. I myself am not hugely baby-centric. I joke about not wanting kids, but really, I figure it'll happen. In fact, if we have an honest conversation, I will tell you I want either zero or a bunch. And I've said before that if it ended up that I were unable to have kids, I would be okay with that (mainly because of my desire to adopt regardless).
I still feel those things, I think. But HIMYM opened me up to....I dunno. More feelings? What I mean is, I really liked how they handled it! Robin's reaction rang true when she said there is a difference between not wanting something and having that something not even be a possibility. I get that. There's a bit of selfishness, of wanting control. There's also some honesty, that somewhere deep down she liked the idea of maybe having a kid or two.
I really liked her monologue about not having kids meaning she could travel and work and not be bogged down by anything because my face was like, "YOU ARE SPEAKING MY BRAIN." And in the end, the voiceover tells us she did go on to do great things, travel awesome places, and fulfill life goals.
But that doesn't discount the tragedy.
I don't know how much sense I'm making. This all just felt like it was related to my brainspace, and I came away thinking that if I cannot have kids....I'll be sad. I can admit that. It would suck to be unable to have kids. But if that happens, my life is not over. My usefulness is not over. I can still be awesome and do awesome things.
I always knew my life wouldn't be over. I didn't think I'd grieve.
Look at me, growing and learning because of a sitcom.
Things I Love: Ee
Ewan McGregor
Way back when Star Wars: Episode 1 came out, I remember going home and writing a love letter to Young Obi Wan Kenobi on my whiteboard. He was the cutest Jedi I'd ever seen. A couple years later, I watched Moulin Rouge and fell in love with Christian. It took me awhile, but I eventually realized that I had fallen in love with the SAME GUY. Twice.
Ewan manages to be cute in an unintimidating way, and his versatility is pretty remarkable. I do like him for more than his looks, I promise. Big Fish is one of my favorite movies that I always forget about, and A Life Less Ordinary is one of the most hilarious cracktastic movies of all time.
I will always love him for singing "Come What May" in such an earnest and adorable way. And for being one of the first men I ever saw wear eyeliner.
Ents
Guardians of forests! I love forests. I love trees. So the idea that there could be walking, talking trees hanging about, ready to unleash some Nature Fury on industrialists? Awesome.
I'm pretty sure the image of the Ent burning while attacking Isengard was one of the saddest in the movie. Thank goodness he bent over and dowsed himself.
Maybe the saddest thing ever is the fate of the Entwives. Where are they? Will the Ents ever be reunited with the Entwives? Are they all dead or turned tree? MY HEART NEEDS TO KNOW.
(Oh my gosh, while looking for Ent pictures on google, there were pictures of the Whomping Willow. THIS IS NOW FACT. The Whomping Willow is an Ent who has turned mostly tree.)
Eric Northman
I never got into True Blood. I just...really don't care for stories set in the South. Plus the blood was like KABLOOEY and there was a lot of gratuitous nudity and I just gave up after an episode or two.
However.
There was Eric Northman. A tall Viking vampire! Who is all super confident and, "Sookie, you will love me whether you want to or not. HAHA made you drink my blood! Now you will love me. No, I don't care that you are in love with someone else. I can wait."
I...really like jerks? (See next entry.) And he's really cute. So thanks to the magic of Youtube, I have watched only Eric's scenes for every single episode. Sometimes they make no sense, but I have watched 8-15 minutes of every episode of True Blood. *hangs head in shame, but not really since I'm admitting it on the interwebs*
Egotistical Fictional Characters
What I really mean is, I like Magnificent Bastards, but I figured I'd have plenty of things that start with M, and E is really hard.
TV Tropes defines the Magnificent Bastard as "Capturing the audience with his charisma, incredible intellect, mastery of manipulation, and boldness of action, this character is a show-stealer, demanding your reverence at every turn," adding that he or she "is brilliant and utterly devious, is a smooth operator, has a goal, and is charismatic."
This is my favorite kind of character.
Examples also include: Eric Northman from True Blood. Magneto from X-Men. The Joker from The Dark Knight. Draco Malfoy in my head canon of Harry Potter.
NOTE: I adore these characters in fiction. In real life, I'm pretty sure I would punch them in the face.
Eleven
Okay, so Eleven is not my favorite regeneration of The Doctor. He is....probably not even my second favorite. BUT. He starts with an E, and even my least favorite regeneration of The Doctor is still really super awesome.
I love Eleven's whimsy. His episodes with Craig are him at his best, flailing around and being inscrutable. I love his giraffe dance. I love his bow tie and suspenders (though I cannot be a fez fan). I love how his childlike cherub face can abruptly change into either terrifying mad face or old man face. I like his flirtatiousness with River.
He is the Hipster Doctor, and oh yeah, I forgot to mention his voice is about the best thing my ears have ever heard. If The Doctor ever came to take me away on adventures, I would prefer Ten. But in no way would I turn down Eleven.
Way back when Star Wars: Episode 1 came out, I remember going home and writing a love letter to Young Obi Wan Kenobi on my whiteboard. He was the cutest Jedi I'd ever seen. A couple years later, I watched Moulin Rouge and fell in love with Christian. It took me awhile, but I eventually realized that I had fallen in love with the SAME GUY. Twice.
Ewan manages to be cute in an unintimidating way, and his versatility is pretty remarkable. I do like him for more than his looks, I promise. Big Fish is one of my favorite movies that I always forget about, and A Life Less Ordinary is one of the most hilarious cracktastic movies of all time.
I will always love him for singing "Come What May" in such an earnest and adorable way. And for being one of the first men I ever saw wear eyeliner.
Ents
Guardians of forests! I love forests. I love trees. So the idea that there could be walking, talking trees hanging about, ready to unleash some Nature Fury on industrialists? Awesome.
I'm pretty sure the image of the Ent burning while attacking Isengard was one of the saddest in the movie. Thank goodness he bent over and dowsed himself.
Maybe the saddest thing ever is the fate of the Entwives. Where are they? Will the Ents ever be reunited with the Entwives? Are they all dead or turned tree? MY HEART NEEDS TO KNOW.
(Oh my gosh, while looking for Ent pictures on google, there were pictures of the Whomping Willow. THIS IS NOW FACT. The Whomping Willow is an Ent who has turned mostly tree.)
Eric Northman
I never got into True Blood. I just...really don't care for stories set in the South. Plus the blood was like KABLOOEY and there was a lot of gratuitous nudity and I just gave up after an episode or two.
However.
There was Eric Northman. A tall Viking vampire! Who is all super confident and, "Sookie, you will love me whether you want to or not. HAHA made you drink my blood! Now you will love me. No, I don't care that you are in love with someone else. I can wait."
I...really like jerks? (See next entry.) And he's really cute. So thanks to the magic of Youtube, I have watched only Eric's scenes for every single episode. Sometimes they make no sense, but I have watched 8-15 minutes of every episode of True Blood. *hangs head in shame, but not really since I'm admitting it on the interwebs*
Egotistical Fictional Characters
What I really mean is, I like Magnificent Bastards, but I figured I'd have plenty of things that start with M, and E is really hard.
TV Tropes defines the Magnificent Bastard as "Capturing the audience with his charisma, incredible intellect, mastery of manipulation, and boldness of action, this character is a show-stealer, demanding your reverence at every turn," adding that he or she "is brilliant and utterly devious, is a smooth operator, has a goal, and is charismatic."
This is my favorite kind of character.
Examples also include: Eric Northman from True Blood. Magneto from X-Men. The Joker from The Dark Knight. Draco Malfoy in my head canon of Harry Potter.
NOTE: I adore these characters in fiction. In real life, I'm pretty sure I would punch them in the face.
Eleven
Okay, so Eleven is not my favorite regeneration of The Doctor. He is....probably not even my second favorite. BUT. He starts with an E, and even my least favorite regeneration of The Doctor is still really super awesome.
I love Eleven's whimsy. His episodes with Craig are him at his best, flailing around and being inscrutable. I love his giraffe dance. I love his bow tie and suspenders (though I cannot be a fez fan). I love how his childlike cherub face can abruptly change into either terrifying mad face or old man face. I like his flirtatiousness with River.
He is the Hipster Doctor, and oh yeah, I forgot to mention his voice is about the best thing my ears have ever heard. If The Doctor ever came to take me away on adventures, I would prefer Ten. But in no way would I turn down Eleven.
Monday, December 5, 2011
C'mon Doctor. Take Me To New Worlds.
La di da, I like to travel and I like to read (stating the obvious).
I had sort of put together that part of my love of reading is the desire for escapism. Life not exciting enough? Relationships not witty enough? Read a book!
But I'd never realized how much my love of traveling is also a form of escapism until today. Something disappointing happened, and I was all "lol checking plane tickets bye!"
In retrospect, I do this a lot. Job is boring--where should I go this weekend? I am insulted--I'll just go visit a friend who likes me. Can't handle it anymore--FINE I'LL JUST LEAVE THE COUNTRY KTHX.
I am a very mature and emotionally versatile person.
Haha.
But really, I want to go somewhere. Nowish.
I had sort of put together that part of my love of reading is the desire for escapism. Life not exciting enough? Relationships not witty enough? Read a book!
But I'd never realized how much my love of traveling is also a form of escapism until today. Something disappointing happened, and I was all "lol checking plane tickets bye!"
In retrospect, I do this a lot. Job is boring--where should I go this weekend? I am insulted--I'll just go visit a friend who likes me. Can't handle it anymore--FINE I'LL JUST LEAVE THE COUNTRY KTHX.
I am a very mature and emotionally versatile person.
Haha.
But really, I want to go somewhere. Nowish.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Service Weekend
The college group kind of massively slacked on planning this year's Service Weekend until a flurry of activity last Sunday (what is with December coming immediately after November?), but I am pleased to say it went amazingly well!
When visiting church members, one person remarked that it was cool the college kids and youth were working together. David said, "Most of my friends are already in college, so it's great to still have them around." I added, "And some of us just don't want to grow up."
And I don't! Not if it means giving up lock-ins and cookie extravaganzas and chasing people around for teasing me. I love it.
I know some people are concerned with the current state of the youth group, and sometimes I agree. However, this weekend I most definitely didn't. I put my administrator hat on, and every time I asked someone to put peanut butter on crackers, or clean up tables, or make sure the couch cushions were replaced, people jumped to obey and serve and generally be awesome.
We made loads of cookies on Friday night, then had a mini worship service. Nathan talked about the Lord's Prayer and we sang along to some youtube songs (oh Senegal worship services, you taught me so much!). David reminded me of this awesome video, which you should probably go and watch right this second, and we ended the service with that.
Instead of Christian Guard, we played dodgeball until 12:30 a.m. By we, I mean not me. There are many P.E. games that emotionally scarred me, but probably none more than dodgeball. Lindsay and I sat on the kitchen ledge, and even when balls hit the wall twenty feet from me, I usually screamed like a terrified girl, which I was. Especially when Jeff threw a ball right in between us, nearly giving me a heart attack. In fairness, he did come over to hug us after the game was over.
I went to bed by 1:00, because I'd agreed to help Josh and Nick make breakfast at 6:30 in the morning. After I got up and washed my face, I padded into the dark kitchen. I kind of walked in circles before realizing no one else was awake. I thought Josh had pranked me or changed the plans and forgotten to tell me, so I went to curl up in a chair in the boy's Sunday School room. Just as I was about to drift off to sleep, Josh walked by and turned on the kitchen light.
Saturday morning we divided into groups (me, David, Colten) to visit some of the older church members. We went to the Thompsons first. Pat and her sister met us there and kept the conversation rolling. Mariana was not very cognizant most of the time, but before we left, Pat suggested we sing some Christmas songs. After the first verse of "Joy to the World," Mariana asked, "Is that it?" Of course, we then sang four more songs. Her face was lit up and beautiful and she sang and harmonized and knew every single word. It was extraordinary. In the multiple retellings of our adventures, David and I agreed that it was the best moment of the weekend.
We went to the Tolson's afterwards, and Elmer is generally a boss. I love events like this, because I got to learn way more about them than I ever would have on my own. I have finally reached the age where I like to hear about the past and how things are different. I like hearing the stories of these spiritual giants, and the way they live awesome lives and are so humble about it all.
Our last visit was with Margaret Guenther. I asked a nurse to point us to her room, and she said Margaret was the one sitting in the hallway with a maroon sweater. She pointed down the hall where two women in maroon sweaters were sitting in wheelchairs against the wall and two other women in maroon sweaters were wheeling themselves down the other side of the hall. As we passed them, the front self-propelled wheelchair woman said in the squeakiest voice imaginable, "I'm afraid I'm not a speed demon today!" It was adorable.
David had visited Margaret before, so he chose the maroon-sweatered woman most likely to be Margaret. She can't talk past a breathy mumble, and I couldn't understand a thing. We talked to her about birds and Christmas and stuff. It was very awkward, because I had been told her mind is still active, but I just had no idea what she was saying. For all I knew, she could have said, "I hate birds! Stop talking about that awful birdcage!"
When we decided to go, I gave her a hug. Then she hugged David and said, SAID, "Merry Christmas to you too," and gave him the biggest hug. When he got up, we looked at each other with swimmy eyes and about died. Unanimously agreed to be the second best moment of the weekend.
When all the groups reconvened at church, we swapped stories over Avantis gondolas, then cleaned everything.
Lovely. Really lovely. Part of why we do the weekend is to show the youth that serving others can be genuinely fun. It doesn't have to be a chore. But psh, who cares about them? It was nice to be reminded of that myself.
When visiting church members, one person remarked that it was cool the college kids and youth were working together. David said, "Most of my friends are already in college, so it's great to still have them around." I added, "And some of us just don't want to grow up."
And I don't! Not if it means giving up lock-ins and cookie extravaganzas and chasing people around for teasing me. I love it.
I know some people are concerned with the current state of the youth group, and sometimes I agree. However, this weekend I most definitely didn't. I put my administrator hat on, and every time I asked someone to put peanut butter on crackers, or clean up tables, or make sure the couch cushions were replaced, people jumped to obey and serve and generally be awesome.
We made loads of cookies on Friday night, then had a mini worship service. Nathan talked about the Lord's Prayer and we sang along to some youtube songs (oh Senegal worship services, you taught me so much!). David reminded me of this awesome video, which you should probably go and watch right this second, and we ended the service with that.
Instead of Christian Guard, we played dodgeball until 12:30 a.m. By we, I mean not me. There are many P.E. games that emotionally scarred me, but probably none more than dodgeball. Lindsay and I sat on the kitchen ledge, and even when balls hit the wall twenty feet from me, I usually screamed like a terrified girl, which I was. Especially when Jeff threw a ball right in between us, nearly giving me a heart attack. In fairness, he did come over to hug us after the game was over.
I went to bed by 1:00, because I'd agreed to help Josh and Nick make breakfast at 6:30 in the morning. After I got up and washed my face, I padded into the dark kitchen. I kind of walked in circles before realizing no one else was awake. I thought Josh had pranked me or changed the plans and forgotten to tell me, so I went to curl up in a chair in the boy's Sunday School room. Just as I was about to drift off to sleep, Josh walked by and turned on the kitchen light.
Saturday morning we divided into groups (me, David, Colten) to visit some of the older church members. We went to the Thompsons first. Pat and her sister met us there and kept the conversation rolling. Mariana was not very cognizant most of the time, but before we left, Pat suggested we sing some Christmas songs. After the first verse of "Joy to the World," Mariana asked, "Is that it?" Of course, we then sang four more songs. Her face was lit up and beautiful and she sang and harmonized and knew every single word. It was extraordinary. In the multiple retellings of our adventures, David and I agreed that it was the best moment of the weekend.
We went to the Tolson's afterwards, and Elmer is generally a boss. I love events like this, because I got to learn way more about them than I ever would have on my own. I have finally reached the age where I like to hear about the past and how things are different. I like hearing the stories of these spiritual giants, and the way they live awesome lives and are so humble about it all.
Our last visit was with Margaret Guenther. I asked a nurse to point us to her room, and she said Margaret was the one sitting in the hallway with a maroon sweater. She pointed down the hall where two women in maroon sweaters were sitting in wheelchairs against the wall and two other women in maroon sweaters were wheeling themselves down the other side of the hall. As we passed them, the front self-propelled wheelchair woman said in the squeakiest voice imaginable, "I'm afraid I'm not a speed demon today!" It was adorable.
David had visited Margaret before, so he chose the maroon-sweatered woman most likely to be Margaret. She can't talk past a breathy mumble, and I couldn't understand a thing. We talked to her about birds and Christmas and stuff. It was very awkward, because I had been told her mind is still active, but I just had no idea what she was saying. For all I knew, she could have said, "I hate birds! Stop talking about that awful birdcage!"
When we decided to go, I gave her a hug. Then she hugged David and said, SAID, "Merry Christmas to you too," and gave him the biggest hug. When he got up, we looked at each other with swimmy eyes and about died. Unanimously agreed to be the second best moment of the weekend.
When all the groups reconvened at church, we swapped stories over Avantis gondolas, then cleaned everything.
Lovely. Really lovely. Part of why we do the weekend is to show the youth that serving others can be genuinely fun. It doesn't have to be a chore. But psh, who cares about them? It was nice to be reminded of that myself.
Monday, November 28, 2011
A Hairy Situation
I've been bored with my hair lately, but not so bored that I did anything about it.
Yesterday at church Wendy mentioned a facebook status I'd written about being bored with my hair. She said she was worried I'd show up having done something drastic. Immediately three people told me to leave my hair alone.
Mark: If you are bored, change your nails.
Me: But hair grows back!
Mark: Your hair is so pretty like this.
Me: ...So it wouldn't be pretty if I changed it?
Mark: *backtrack*
After so many people telling me not to change my hair, I went ahead and dyed it red this evening.
Nothing helps me make up my mind more than people telling me not to do something.
On the other hand, I've not cut it or anything. Yet.
Edited to Add: Tsk. So much for being rebellious. $3 hair dyes are $3 for a reason.
Yesterday at church Wendy mentioned a facebook status I'd written about being bored with my hair. She said she was worried I'd show up having done something drastic. Immediately three people told me to leave my hair alone.
Mark: If you are bored, change your nails.
Me: But hair grows back!
Mark: Your hair is so pretty like this.
Me: ...So it wouldn't be pretty if I changed it?
Mark: *backtrack*
After so many people telling me not to change my hair, I went ahead and dyed it red this evening.
Nothing helps me make up my mind more than people telling me not to do something.
On the other hand, I've not cut it or anything. Yet.
Edited to Add: Tsk. So much for being rebellious. $3 hair dyes are $3 for a reason.
Doctor Who S1E03 "The Unquiet Dead" Semi-Live Blog
Zombie ghost aliens! This episode has it all.
Dude, pay attention when a creepy blue light covers your dead mom's face! That usually means something bad will happen.
LOL at the guy coming to see Dead Mom strangling her son and he just resignedly says, “Oh no...”
Ew, her face is genuinely creepy.
I LOVE THE THEME SONG.
“What happens in 1860?”
“I don't know, let's find out!”
“I don't know, let's find out!”
Rose has upgraded to helping pilot the TARDIS.
This is why I love this show. The wanderlust is overwhelming.
Oh, hello Gwen. I mean, Gwen's great great grandma or whatever.
….Laying on the floor, laughing happily. I see you, Doctor/Rose.
Rose being all deep. The Doctor is so pleased with her. “Better with two.” They are so almost in love.
This is one of the only times they have to dress up to fit in, right?
Charles Dickens!
Aw, he's lonely. That will soon change, sir. Don't even worry.
“Blimey!”
“Don't laugh.”
“Don't laugh.”
“You look beautiful! Considering.”
“Considering what?”
“You're human.”
“Considering what?”
“You're human.”
THEIR CUTENESS IS UNBEARABLE.
Linked arms. :)
Dickens, please notice the gross decaying woman in your audience!
First special effects. Unintended, but still.
Phantasmagoria needs to be in more people's vocabulary.
Oh no. Rose is kidnapped!
Flattery is apparently very effective with Dickens.
“Rider, be swift! The chase is on!”
I love Dickens.
Rose is only 19. And now I'm remembering why they squicked me out for awhile. Admittedly, the Doctor's fondness for pretty young women is...worrying. But at least nothing ever happens between his companions and him. Even when they end up wildly in love. :(
“What in Shakespeare is going on?”
LOL.
Rose, don't ask the zombie guy if he's alright! Just run!
At least she's getting a little more proactive. She threw a flower vase at the zombies before banging on the door and screaming for help.
Run, Doctor, run!
“I think this is mine.” HAHA Doctor.
“Hi!”
And they're clinging to each other.
I just really can't...handle how cute they are. And so early on!
The Doctor's grin as Rose accuses the undertaker of getting handsie. He likes her spunk.
“Can it be that I have the world entirely wrong?”
“Not wrong. There's just more to learn.”
“Not wrong. There's just more to learn.”
Once again, Rose is bonding with the lower classes. Her compassion and class blindness is one of my favorite things about her.
Does Gwen see the future because of the Rift?
Metal birds with people in them. Yeah, the idea of planes is terrifying.
Oh, hello Doctor. Yup, it's the Rift. Probably that has something to do with her descendent looking exactly like her. And having the same name.
The Time War (supposedly) wiped out nearly all the gaseous aliens. Way to push the Doctor's buttons.
I love when TV shows make me consider horrible things as possible.
Why not give the aliens human dead bodies so they don't die out?
“Leave her alone! She's exhausted, and she's not fighting your battles!”
You go, Rose. Put the Doctor in his place.
Rose is so pure and moral.
The Doctor is not okay with that. He wants to make her into him.
The beauty of their relationship is that Rose's worldview DOES grow, but she maintains a strong sense of right and wrong, and actually makes the Doctor more like her.
“Time can be rewritten just like that.”
Oh, Nine, that's Eleven's line!
Angelic alien Gelf.
Don't trust the angelic alien Gelf!
The Doctor has such unrelenting pity for the end of races, no matter what that means for others.
Wuh oh. Angelic alien Gelf are really eeeevil.
“I pitied you!”
“We don't want your pity. We want your world and all its flesh.”
“We don't want your pity. We want your world and all its flesh.”
That is a nicely creepy line.
Rose, you can die before you are born. You'd think the Doctor would have explained that straightaway, considering he loves running into danger. And all the Doctor can say is, “I'm sorry.”
At least he has a sad face on.
He feels responsible for everything always.
And he gets all angry about the thought of himself dying, just like Ten will do in five years.
“We'll go down fighting, yeah?”
“Yeah.”
“Together?”
“Yeah.”
“Together?”
“Yeah.”
“I'm so glad I met you.”
“Me too.”
This, I think, is a big moment for Doctor/Rose. Which makes sense. The threat of death makes people rethink their relationships. And now, I think, they are more aware of just how much they like each other.
Yay, Dickens! You saved the day!
Gweneth...you poor tricked girl.
She's so strong though. Willing to sacrifice herself to save the world.
I love the understated way people are heroes in this show.
“There are more things in heaven and on earth than are dreamt of in your philosophy. Even for you, Doctor.”
Even 900-year-old beings can learn new things.
That's quite lovely.
Learning about a bigger world makes the little things, the close relationships, all the more important.
That is also quite lovely.
What a good show this is. :)
There's a running theme of meeting famous people who aren't confident in their ability, then assuring them that their works will last forever.
Also quite lovely and touching.
Seriously, this show! You hit all my buttons.
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