Shannanigans

"Like Butterflies Landing On The Hearts of Babies"

2011-04-01T08:57:00.000-07:00

I received this delightful video via electronic mail from my dear friend Kristy Uzelac. As many of you know, I hold a special place in my heart (since kindergarten--Tyler Wardall) for Asians.

Proof:

In fifth grade, during my "Japanese phase", I was a Geisha for Halloween and my "boyfriend" that year was Japanese-American. Oh! and there was that one time I dated and almost married a Laotian.... :)

Who doesn't like butterflies and babies?

P.S. In case any of you were wondering, I'm doing much better this week than last...just as predicted. At least I'm consistent!

In every girl there is a little "crazy"...here's mine

2011-03-24T20:55:00.001-07:00

Today is one of those days I'm really glad boys don't read my blog and is another one of those days I really "dislike" being a girl.

One word...actually, a combination of two.....HORMOTIONAL.

Hate it. Right now as I sit on my bed, all I want to do is go to sleep and wake up in a different place, different time, different body....anything, just different. I'm not sure exactly what any of that means, but if I could describe the feeling it would be this:

Imagine just unzipping yourself. Unzipping the drab, worn out, blah, sort of "dragging-your-feet-because-you-feel-the-weight-of-the-world-on-your-shoulders" you, and then stepping out of that old skin a new, vibrant, sort of "whistling-a-happy-tune-spring-in-your-step" you. Sounds wonderful doesn't it?

My very wise, big sister Katie once expressed that there must be some purpose for Heavenly Father allowing us [women] to endure being hormotional. I believe he would never make us suffer for no reason. Perhaps it's part of what happened when Eve ate the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden...not only will fruit no longer spontaneously grow, there will be noxious weeds, AND every 28 days you will feel as though you've lost your mind! Perhaps it's another lesson in humility, a not-so-subtle reminder of how much we need Him. In any case, I clearly haven't learned whatever it is that I need to learn and it's driving me bonkers.

I find myself keenly aware of my insecurities. I find my mind filled with thoughts about my looks, or work, or boys, etc. Last month it was politics! I mean, really? Whatever it is, I feel terribly insecure about it and almost can't think of anything else. Am I the only one this happens too?

What's really bothering me this time is this...

I went on a blind date with a really cute guy last night. Did the post-date-text thing (which I NEVER do). Regret it. Saw him at a wedding reception tonight. Talked to him. Felt like a foreigner in my own body. Spent the entire drive home trying to stifle all the negative thoughts involving why this cute guy would never like me anyway (enter insecurities)....yada, yada, yada.

Bottom line: I'm exhausted! and SO BUGGED because I know perfectly well that in a week, I'm....gonna...feel....fine. In the meantime, I apologize for my rantings.

I understand if I don't hear from any of you until next Weds.

Thrillingly Uncharted Gravity

2011-03-03T16:38:00.000-08:00

Ever fanatsize about what kind of music video you would make if you had the chance? I do. I would definitely ask Sara for her recommendations. Why you ask?

Exhibit A:

Exhibit B: (Do not skip this one because there is no cute video box! Try to name all of the cameos in this video. It's FUN!)

http://www.vevo.com/watch/sara-bareilles/uncharted-directors-cut/USSM21001934

If I could find some way to combine the two of these videos with "Thriller" I think I'd have the perfect music video! :)

OR find some way to incorporate Legos... (skip to 2:17, that's my favorite part)

Oscar--lest we forget!

2011-02-28T20:38:00.000-08:00

I watched the Oscars last night. The glitz and glamour were missing ONE thing....God. Not one acceptance speech (at least that was aired) gave any recognition to a Higher Being. Coincidence?

I didn't know this until tonight, but the phrase "Lest we forget" comes from a poem written by Rudyard Kipling (circa 1897) called, "Recessional". In light of the Oscars I found Mr. Kipling's poem quite appropriate...(italics added for emphasis):

God of our fathers, known of old—

Lord of our far-flung battle line—

Beneath whose awful hand we hold

Dominion over palm and pine—

Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,

Lest we forget—lest we forget!

The tumult and the shouting dies—

The Captains and the Kings depart—

Still stands Thine ancient sacrifice,

An humble and a contrite heart.

Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,

Lest we forget—lest we forget!

Far-called our navies melt away—

On dune and headland sinks the fire—

Lo, all our pomp of yesterday

Is one with Nineveh and Tyre!

Judge of the Nations, spare us yet,

Lest we forget—lest we forget!

If, drunk with sight of power, we loose
Wild tongues that have not Thee in awe—
Such boastings as the Gentiles use,
Or lesser breeds without the Law—
Lord God of Hosts, be with us yet,
Lest we forget—lest we forget!

For heathen heart that puts her trust

In reeking tube and iron shard—

All valiant dust that builds on dust,

And guarding calls not Thee to guard.

For frantic boast and foolish word,

Thy Mercy on Thy People, Lord!

Amen.

Coincidence?

Like Riding A Bike

2011-02-01T22:08:00.001-08:00

As you may have noticed, it's been over a year since I posted last. What's even funnier is that my last post was all about Facebook and it's hypnotizing power that pulls you in. Yes, it certainly has bewitched me the last year...make that two years (yikes!). I'm happy to report that in the meantime I have successfully developed a "healthy" relationship with Facebook and am ready to enter the "blogosphere" again. :)

You may have also noticed the "face lift" my blog has received. Books! I'm not really known for my love of books. Those who know me well can vouch for that....Allison, BriAnne, Lyd, Nat, etc. In fact, in the 9th grade I was grounded for an entire month because it took me that long to read Little Women. Fortunately, I have since overcome my A.D.D. toward books and have become, what I like to call, a "born-again reader". I still don't read as often as I like, but I now consider reading a leisurely pleasure instead of cruel and unusual punishment :) Hence, my choice of decor is to hopefully encourage me to keep reading! (Not to mention it makes me look smarter and feel more intelligenty)

AND, since I have such a "serious" and grown up blog template I thought I should have a "serious" picture....serious people don't smile. On the other hand, I don't want to seem like a bore, so I went with sunshiney-golden-yellow for my blog title background. Now then, don't you feel warm and fuzzy all over?

Sigh. It feels good to be back....like riding a bike.

Nat, this one's for you!

2009-02-15T23:07:00.000-08:00

It has been so long since I've posted that I almost wasn't able to access my blog account. To all of my faithful blog followers, I am deeply sorry. What's to blame for my absence from the blogging world....well there are several reasons (you know, the usual) um.....Christmas, spending New Years/Grand Targhee with intellectuals, work, a Bar Mitzvah, training for a half marathon, planning a cruise, being anxiously engaged in the engagement process, etc. But I would have to admit, the reason for lack of posting could be summed up in one word--Facebook.

Lydia once described the appeal of Facebook as "instant gratification!" I wouldn't hesitate to say that she's quite right. It's quick and easy. I only have to post my status (that's thinking of only one witty or thought-provoking thing to say); that's IF I want to say anything at all. People request your "friendship" and "write on your wall." For a brief moment, and I mean brief, you feel really important. In all honesty, it's very reminiscent of Jr. High and High School. It's pretty fun! Now, having said that, it's been a couple months since I joined and it's starting to lose that shiny, new feeling (which isn't necessarily bad). That exciting feeling comes and goes, but ultimately, I try not to waste too much time checking my profile, writing on walls, and such anymore.

I definitely believe that there are many positive uses for Facebook AND blogs! My fear, however, is that I will become too consumed in this electronic "reality" and miss out on what's happening in my TRUE reality. I'm single! I'm young! I'm done with school--I WANT TO LIVE IT UP! There are places to go, people to meet, food to try.... I suppose this blog and Facebook is where I can document said experiences and share them with all of you. Hmmm.

Why is it so hard for me to do... actually sitting down and posting? Is it that I prefer actual human contact, talking to someone in person, or hearing some one's voice on the end of the line? or am I just lazy? Many people describe their blog as their journal. I can relate to that. Clearly my blog posts are not entirely what a formal journal entry would contain. Maybe, I don't post because I feel I should be writing in my "real life" journal instead.

Does anyone else worry that they don't listen as well as they use to? or know how to carry on a conversation with a person face to face? Sometimes I feel like such a goof. I know exactly what to say, as long as it's in "text" form, or "wall" form, or "comment" form; but coming up with something to say on the spot stumps me.

This has become a most random post. It's nothing like I thought it would be in the beginning. I don't even know if there is point to this post...maybe I just needed a moment to reflect (sounds very journally, don't you think?)

At least I can say that I posted!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T19:03:00.000-08:00

Today is the day that we give thanks! There are many things I am deeply grateful for and I thank Heavenly Father for them everyday! There is always room in the world for gratitude.

Today is also a day full of tradition. Who doesn't LOVE tradition?

Today, my family strayed from tradition a bit and instead of sitting down and enjoying a "made-from-scratch" Thanksgiving meal, my parents and all the "unwed" children of the family (there are 3 of us) attended dinner at a restaurant....The Gray Cliff Lodge in Ogden Canyon. I'd give it 3 1/2 out of 5 stars. It was pretty good! Way better than the time we had Thanksgiving at Zions Lodge in Southern Utah when I was 12. It was nice not to have the stress or clean up of a Thanksgiving at home. However, nothing beats my mom's stuffing and yams, dad's turkey and mashed potatoes, and Grandma Taggart's rolls. The leftovers will be greatly missed (sniff). There's always next year.

Today we reinstated one of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions...GOING TO THE MOVIES. It started the year "Tremors" came out. Funny movie to see on Thanksgiving, right? Everyone left me at home sleeping and I woke up when they got home (I was totally jipped). Every year after that, the whole fam (including extended family) would go see the most recent Disney flick. The tradition seemed to dwindle the last few years, but not this year. The 5 of us that were home went to the movies !

We saw "The Boy In The Striped Pajamas". Amazing! See it! It definitely reminded me of my many blessings and that I should be truly grateful.

With that, I am grateful for you!

Wishin' & Hopin'

2008-11-01T21:27:00.000-07:00

As I'm online checking emails, reading blogs, and wasting time...I'm also watching one of Adam Sandler's greatest performances as Robby in The Wedding Singer. I found myself wishing and hoping for several things:

1. I wish I could be a wedding singer.
2. I hope I never find myself sitting at "Table 9"
3. I hope I never grow sideburns, like "sideburns lady"
4. I wish that I could meet Billy Idol on an airplane!
5. I hope I'm "totally psyched" when my fiance shows up to our wedding.
6. I wish I had a sweet Van Halen t-shirt
7. I really wish I could find a sparkly Michael Jackson glove.

Just some of my random thoughts this evening.

STONER Part 2

2008-10-06T16:19:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to feel like an old lady...you know, the ones who only talk about their health problems. However, this was a funny, yet alarming, discovery.

I was working out at the gym the other day, on the elliptical machine and watching the T.V. I noticed that the commercial that was on was advertising a prescription medication for men with enlarged prostates....called FLOMAX. I instantly began laughing to myself.

I'm sure you're all thinking, "Shanna, enlarged prostates are no laughing matter! Hundreds of men suffer from this painful condition." Precisely, enlarged prostates are not funny! What's funny is that FLOMAX is the medication that was prescribed to me for my kidney stones. That's right, I have been taking a medication designed for men to help alleviate the symptoms of enlarged prostates.

It seems I have more to worry about than a couple of measly kidney stones.

STONER

2008-08-29T22:09:00.000-07:00

About 3 1/2 years ago I missed my flight from Connecticut to Utah. This was when I experienced my very first kidney stone. I was about to make a 7 hour trip home-even boarded the plane-but when I headed straight for the bathroom instead of my seat, I knew I wouldn't make it. I asked the flight attendants to please get my carry-on and I raced to the jet way where an airline employee shoved a barf bag in my face...just in time. Humiliating.

When being discharged from UCONN Health Center ER I asked my doctor what the chances were I may have another stone. He shared with me some interesting statistics...

Every person has a 10% chance of getting a kidney stone.
If you've had one stone, your 90% more likely to have more..."Unfortunately, if you have a second stone, you are what we call...a stoner."

Today I officially became...a STONER. Not just a second stone, but a third as well. I drove myself to one of Salt Lake's finest Emergency rooms this morning and spent the entire work day watching "What Not To Wear" and trying to pee in a cup during commercial breaks. You'll be happy to know that I was finally able to give them a good sample for testing AND the real estate agent from Chicago LOVED her new look!

Beijings Got Game

2008-08-09T11:29:00.000-07:00

Da__Da__DaDom...Dom...Dom...Dom__DomDom...DaDomDom___DomDomDaDomDomDom!
It is that time again! It only happens every two years...I make up for all of the time I haven't spent watching sports in 17 glorious days. Since I am trapped in "the lab" again, I've got all the time in world!

Last night was the opening ceremonies of the SUMMER OLYMPIC GAMES!!! Bottom line--magical. I was blown away by the artistry and talent. Beijings got game! It was literally beautiful. They used fireworks to make giant footprints in the sky leading up to the Olympic Stadium (nicknamed "The Birds Nest" ) where there were 2008 drummers creating, what looked like a digital clock, the count down to the start of the games.

The Bird's Nest looked like it was sparkling! Definitely YouTube worthy if you didn't see it. I get all warm and fuzzy during the opening ceremonies...the whole world coming together in the name of sport. There are always these amazing displays of humanity during the Olympic Games. The athletes are so inspiring and there is this feeling of respect between them.

I absolutely love watching the Olympics, especially the Summer Olympics! Watching the Olympics was always something we would do as a family growing up. I love it! Sadly everyday obligations--work, church, sleep-- keep me from watching EVERY minute. However, there are several events I make a point of watching:

Gymnastics!!! Women's and Men's
Swimming--Go Michael Phelps!
Diving
Track and Field
Basketball--the Dream Team is now known as the Redeem Team. We lost the Gold and took Bronze in Athens. Now is the time to bring home Gold baby!
Beach volleyball

The only downside...the constant reminder of my lack of self-discipline! Does anyone else ever wonder what event they would be competing in if their parents had shipped them off to live with their coach from the time they were 10? Mine--table-tennis or hula hooping (if it were an event). My dad would have been so proud!

FREE AT LAST!

2008-08-05T17:27:00.000-07:00

For the first time in my life I was grateful for Monday to come! Particularly, last Monday. I spent the entire weekend (Friday morning to Monday morning), essentially trapped in a hospital room without windows. I am currently part of a clinical research study, investigating a new pain medication. This study requires 3 different 3-night stays in their "lab". Fortunately there were several other study subjects there to keep me company--9 women and 9 men (don't worry, no co-ed sleepovers). All the girls were in one hallway, sharing one custodial-like bathroom and all the boys were in another hallway.

So what did I do to bide the time between meals and routine blood draws from the IV in my arm you ask? This:

Slept!!!
Read a bit
Chatted with my roomie Sally--she's 18 and getting married in Vegas two weeks from now to a boy from Bulgaria. Honestly, she is a really nice girl. I was pleasantly surprised how well we got along.
Painted my toenails and fingernails
Watched Juno! Love that movie.
Watched an obscene amount of television--so much you kind of feel sick afterwards because you haven't done anything to get your blood pumping for awhile. Gross!

**Disclaimer: we were strictly told to not participate in any strenuous exercise during the course of the study (Translation: I better be really good about eating healthy. Thankfully chocolate is also off limits during the study. That will help).**

Bonus: they fed us all our meals and gave us good snacks, i.e. fruit snacks, granola bars, apples, yogurt, etc. It was also a great weekend for 80's dance flicks on T.V.; Flashdance AND Girls Just Want to Have Fun were both shown...multiple times.

1 stay down and 2 more to go. Then the $4500 is MINE! HAHAHAHAHA.

Goosebumps & Palpatations

2008-06-17T17:26:00.000-07:00

I saw this hip-hop routine on So You Think You Can Dance last week and it STILL gives be goosebumps all over. I've never watched a hip-hop routine that has made me almost cry until now.

A little background: They are telling the story of a boy who just received his deployment papers to Iraq and he's breaking the news to his girlfriend.

*Note: If you have a significant other, you may want them close by... cause you're going to want to jump their bones!*

The credit of this next tibit of YouTube.com goodness goes to my penpal, Kawika. He told me about this particular artist. Naturally, I "Googled" him and found this.

His name is Justin Nozuka. I love his sound ...and his face. Those of you that know me well will know right away one of the reasons I'm so drawn to him. He makes my heart skip a beat (just a little bit).

This song is called "Criminal". He also plays the guitar. Only downside--he looks crazy young!

Katie

2008-06-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

This is a formal shout out to my MOST EXCELLENT SISTER KATIE! Today is her birthday and I want her to know how much I love her and look up to her!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KATIE!

She recently moved and is livin' it up in Kanab, UT. I miss her being up north with us, but I am so impressed with the way she so gracefully takes on new challenges and acts in COMPLETE faith. Within a year she moved to NYC for 6 months, moved home, and now lives in Southern Utah (how opposite can 2 places be).

Katie has always been one to forge her own path...she's fearless! I love that about her. Because she always strives to do the right thing, she's always able stand by her choices with integrity.

Katie is so wise! I feel really blessed to have my own personal life "guru" (for lack of a better word). Countless times she has been there for me when I've needed a shoulder to cry on, advice on a frustrating situation, dating advice, fashion advice, or just a good laugh. Whatever the advice, one thing is always there, and that's the spirit. She has this amazing ability to tie everything into the gospel. You can't not feel the power of here testimony when you talk to her.

Thanks for being such a spectacular sister Katie! I love you! Happy Birthday!

Quotable

2008-05-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

I feel I know the most amusing people! Everyone is so clever...which I thoroughly enjoy. Nothing is funner to me than listening to witty banter between friends. Sometimes I feel like I could be living in a sitcom because my friends and family are so funny.

In several of the apartments I have lived, my roommates and I would keep a random quote board with the funny things we would say on them (I loved it!) Which brings me to the point of this post. Many have noticed the quote box I have placed in the top right hand corner of my blog, but in case you haven't, there it is. I like to update it on occasion with some of the clever, funny, or thought-provoking comments of the amazing people in my everyday life.

So take a minute--read-- and perhaps you'll be as entertained as I am!

FINALLY!

2008-05-06T16:00:00.000-07:00

It has been way too long since my last post...even I was annoyed that nothing had changed. Like previously stated in my last blog, I can only access the internet at work and never have the time to post anything at the new job. Luckily, I'm still picking up shifts at the old job that allows plenty of time to read other's blogs and make some new posts. Tonight I'm working at the old job and have found the time for a quick update (starting with the last post entitled "Monticello")

I did not find a "mom n' pops" burger joint in Monticello. Instead, we went to a burger joint in Moab that unfortunately left me unsatisfied. Mostly because it was over-priced.
New job--LOVE IT! The people I get to work with are hilarious and really good at what they do, so I learn a lot and laugh the whole time.
"The House of Blonde" has re-located and is now "The Duplex of Blonde"--we moved around the corner last week. I thought it would be easy to move so close, thus I did not recruit any help. I spent about 20 hours of two days moving. My back hurts just thinking about it.
I have a pen-pal! The last time I had one was when I was in high school (sophmore to be exact) and he lived in Kearns. I know, waaaay far away (at least it felt that way when you couldn't drive). My current p-pal lives in California.
Went to Goblin Valley--We camped. We dutch-ovened. We shot guns. We hiked. We didn't have toilets. We played "Truth, Or Truth". I disposed of a dead mouse that fell out of my roommates cot in the tent...and we had a great time!
I attempted to ride the FrontRunner once and ended up getting off and going to CPK instead. The car was over a half hour late and way too crowded.

There you have it! Just some of the small happenings of my life. It's good.

Monticello

2008-04-12T08:17:00.000-07:00

This won't be a lengthy post by any means, but I thought it would be fun to post something directly from Monticello, UT. My ward came down here to visit the temple and are staying in the Rodeway Inn & Suites. It is a very "glamorous" facility, mostly due to the fact that they have internet access from a community computer in the lobby (right next to where they served the free continental breakfast). Each room also is equipped with a 19" TV and a mini fridge. All in all and in all honesty, the place worked out perfectly. The lovely people here gave us a group discount and the bishop said the ward would pay for half of the cost...that means each of us only have to pay $9 (don't forget, that includes breakfast!)!

I love visiting these types of small towns. What I love most is that there always seems to be one of those amazing "mom-and-pop" type of burger/shake joints. My goal for the day is to find one before we have to leave...burger, onion rings, shake...seriously what could be better?

PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN

2008-03-24T09:19:00.000-07:00

I got this email today from my mom who got it from my uncle. I found it very interesting and believe it just might work...

Read it and pass it along if you agree!

WHERE TO BUY YOUR USA-GAS, THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW. READ ON--Gas rationing in the 80's worked even though we grumbled about it. It might even be good for us! The Saudis are boycotting American goods. We should return the favor. An interesting thought is to boycott their GAS. Every time you fill up the car, you can avoid putting more money into the coffers of Saudi Arabia Just buy from gas companies that don't import their oil from the Saudis. Nothing is more frustrating than the feeling that every time I fill-up the tank, I am sending my money to people who are trying to kill me, my family, and my friends. I thought it might be interesting for you to know which oil companies are the best to buy gas from and which major companies import Middle Eastern oil.

These companies import Middle Eastern oil:
Shell.......................... 205,742,000 barrels
Chevron/Texaco.........144,332,000 barrels
Exxon /Mobil..............130,082,000 barrels
Marathon/Speedway.. 117,740,000 barrels
Amoco..........................62,231,000 barrels
Citgo Gas comes fro m South America , from a Dictator who hates Americans.
Do the math at $30/barrel, these imports amount to over $18 BILLION! (Oil is now $90-$95 a barrel)

Here are some large companies that DO NOT import Middle Eastern oil:
Sunoco................ 0 barrels
Conoco................ 0 barrels
Sinclair................ 0 barrels
BP/Phillips.......... 0 barrels
Hess................... 0 barrels
ARC0................... 0 barrels
Also: Pilot, Flying J, Love's, RaceTrac, Valero

All of this information is available from the Department of Energy and each is required to state where they get their oil and how much they are importing.

I'm feeling very patriotic right now!

10,000 seconds of my life I'll never get back!

2008-03-14T08:04:00.000-07:00

I know that I'm no Siskel, or Ebert, or even Roeper for that matter, but I'm going to give the new film "10,000 BC" two enthusiastic thumbs DOWN. My roommate and I went with some friends from our ward to see this supposed "epic depiction of life at the dawn of civilization" and instead we were all epically disappointed. The only redeeming factors were 1) we had free passes to get in, thus not wasting our own money and 2) the ice cream cones provided by Beau and Jessi were delicious(I love swirly cones!).

When the movie was over, I was afraid that I wouldn't be able to express how ridiculous I thought this movie was and would have keep my comments to myself (in order to not sound ungrateful for the free pass)...much to my delight we all agreed that:

The story line was lame--it was like a bad rendition of the story of Moses mixed with the story of Troy, but with made up legends and names no one can remember or pronounce.

We were all sure that the "spear-tooth" (translation: sabor -tooth) was going to start talking to the main character and offer to let him climb up on his back and take him the rest of his journey.

The old wise-lady from the village was the scariest part.

...And last of all, everyone sounded like Madonna--you know, kind of spoke with a quasi-English accent and never used conjunctions (can't, won't, didn't, etc.)

Bottom line...awful. Just plain awful!

TAGGED

2008-03-05T07:57:00.000-08:00

A: Each player answers the questions about themselves.

B: At the end of the post, the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

What were you doing 10 years ago?

On March 5, 1998 I was 17 and a Junior at Layton High School. I'm sure I was anxiously preparing for the California trip with the choir, nervously hoping to get asked to prom, and mega-crushing on Gabe Smith (I know....I can hear all of you laughing).

5 things on my "to-do" list today.

1. Eat healthy

2. Go to the temple with Melanie

3. Call my Activities committee members

4. Watch American Idol (I've got to check out what my competition would have been)

5. If I'm lucky...I may be able to get my eyebrows waxed!

6 Snacks that I enjoy.

Chocolate, jicama, edamame, "Spoon Me" frozen yogurt, "Diddy Reis" ice cream sandwiches (only found in L.A. folks), and Slurpees (frozen, icy, goodness)

3 bad habits.

1. I hate folding my laundry.

2. I'm a stacker...if I don't know where to put it, I stack it. The perimeter of my room is lined with little stacks of misc. stuff.

3. I can not walk past a smut magazine (i.e. People, US weekly, InStyle, etc.) without picking it up and reading the ENTIRE thing.

If I were suddenly a billionaire I would...

I would definately pay off the debt of each person in my family and make sure each person is set, give to charity, buy a house and everything that comes with it, travel the world, make my money work for me--INVEST, and buy Natalie and Lydia spots on the next "Survivor"!

5 Places I've lived.

Layton, UT

West Hartford, CT

Ogden, UT

LDS Hospital (this was when I was in school)

Salt Lake City, UT

5 Jobs I've had.

Arby's

Red Hanger Cleaners

Nanny

America First Teller

Rad Tech

5 Things people don't know about me (this is hard since I pretty much broadcast my life to everyone)

1. I always regret it when I broadcast my life to everyone.

2. I get such an adrenaline rush from auditions--I've tried out for American Idol, not once, but TWICE! and I tried out for Kurt Bestor's Best Singer Search last fall.

3. I am currently enrolled in a Hip-Hop dance class--Kevin Federline, watch your back!

4. I am terrible at balancing my check book...don't do it.

5. I has taken me two days to think of 5 things people might not know about me (see #1).

I now would like to tag Lydia and Kirsche! Have fun!

FYI

2008-03-05T07:47:00.000-08:00

Many of you may have deciphered from previous posts that I was job hunting in Connecticut. The last time I was there visiting, this job opportunity sort of just fell into my lap. I applied and had an interview the day before I was leaving (kind of felt like divine intervention). The interview went well and about 2 weeks later I had a telephone interview. The day after the phone interview I was sent paperwork to authorize a background check.....suddenly I realized that this may be a real possibility--"Connecticut or BUST!"

Well, it turned out to be a "BUST." I won't be moving to Connecticut and starting a new life on the exciting east coast any time soon. I have mixed feelings about it, none of which are feelings of sadness. The interview process was a good experience and I will continue to pursue other options in other states.

The world has not come to an end.

James

2008-02-25T10:11:00.000-08:00

I know that I'm 27 and really should've out-grown Hollywood crushes, but for some reason I can't help swooning over James McAvoy. Who is he? He's an amazing actor with an impressive resume...The Chronicles of Narnia, The Last King of Scotland, Becoming Jane, Atonement, Penelope...to name a few.

He caught my attention when I saw the previews for Atonement (see right). Then I saw Becoming Jane and last weekend I went to an advanced screening of Penelope and loved it!!! He is extremely talented and doesn't look a thing like typical Hollywood hearthrobs like Brad Pitt or Tom Cruise (which I love about him). He does, however, have a very sexy Scottish accent and piercing blue eyes.

While searching for him on IMDb.com I also discovered that he and I think alike! (see below) Which makes me like him even more.

I'm almost certain that if he were not married, we would certainly meet and fall madly in love.

"We're in a horrible, repugnant place now where kids are told it's their right and due to be hugely famous. Not good at their job, not good at anything, just hugely famous. This is not sane. Little girls think they'll be famous if they have vast breast implants and might as well die if they don't."

This is not a pitty-party post!

2008-02-14T21:43:00.000-08:00

It's Valentines Day. It's 10:44 at night. I'm sitting at work. Am I feeling aware that I'm single right now? Hmmm.

As I reflect back on this last week I've made some funny observations...
1) I've watched 3 chick-flicks in 3 days...two of which with a Jane Austen theme. I adore Jane Austen stuff. I'm a total romantic, so much so that when I'm love sick, I'll binge on her movies and be perfectly content watching them hundreds of times (alone).

2) Every night before I've gone to bed (at 10:30) I've listened to Carrie Underwood's new album, "Carnival Ride"...mostly the slow songs. I've not always been a huge Carrie fan. In fact, I only put her on my iPod when I found she was on my roommates laptop. I'm actually okay that no one is usually home, that way I can sing whatever I want at the top of my lungs! It's entirely liberating for me.

3) Tonight as I have done the routine blog check and some good exploring, I have found that I'm usually the only "single" on everyone's blog list. I'll get excited when I see a single name...*click* Oh! what a darling picture of someone's husband and child.

And finally....
4) I had a telephone interview today with the Chief Radiation Therapist at a hospital in Connecticut and realized, if necessary, I could pick up my ENTIRE life and move there in a week (maybe two, so I could give my work notice). No prob. AND my only concern about moving out-of-state would be if there are enough dating "options", for lack of a better word.

Huh. These things haven't made me feel sorry that I'm single, but have made my singleness more real--palpable. I do look forward to marriage. HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

So Long Mr. T

2008-02-11T10:30:00.000-08:00

First off I want to thank Mr. T for his powerful presence on my blog, but like his acting career, it's time for Mr. T to retire.

I chose my new background based on the fact that it reminds me of a cute grandma's couch that she bought in the 1970's and still keeps in her formal living room--the ones only used for special occassions.

You know how much I love anything vintage!

If Lori had a blog...

2008-02-11T09:31:00.000-08:00

I have several friends that have not entered the blogging world themselves, but prefer to stay on the outskirts and "stalk" others blogs. Sadly, one particular friend has a severe case of "closet-bloggism". If any of you reading my blog know Lori Lessig Tanner and have a blog of your own...you can be sure she has spent time exploring yours (Sorry Lor, call this an intervention)!

Maybe some of you are feeling invaded right now. Maybe you're wondering what is going on in Lori's life....what are some of her dreams and aspirations? Well, you're in luck. Lori sent me the most entertaining email, not too long ago, entitled "If I had a blog". I thought it would be fun to post it on my blog. Maybe if there are enough comments, we can get Lori to make more regular contributions to the blogging community.

Hey everybody, I hope this email finds everyone well. I am at home today studying for the GRE and it sucks, I take it tomorrow and just want to get my score and get it over with.

So yesterday I was bored and was looking online at everyone from high school's blogs (highly recommend it)...First off everyone has minimum two kids, we all are behind the curve on that one…and everyone is like "my life is so great, look at us I use digital scrapbook and document everyone moment of my child's life." It's like, "Here is Braxton eating his first happy meal." "Here is Emmy doing her times tables and she's is only two."

I am not saying this is bad. Who knows I will probably be just like that. I can see my blog now. This is Catherine with her kindergarten class, you can recognize her because she is the only white kid in the bunch--she is fluent in Spanish and she is only five. Here is me and little Andrew playing in the Santa Monica Park with the homeless dudes. Here is me and my family in front of are spacious two bedroom apartment. We have been here for 10 years and have finally saved enough money for a down payment on a 1.2 million dollar three bedroom one and a half bathroom house. Location is great, literally right next to the 405 on ramp. Mike and I couldn't be happier. AWESOME I know.

I love you Lor! You are you are so amazing and funny. By the way, how did the GRE go? Call me.

Fancy Tickling Things

2008-01-09T09:07:00.000-08:00

I know that it has been a long time since the last time I posted, but after checking all the blogs I know exist, I found that I'm not the only one. That made me feel better. The good news is I've started thinking in "blog" again...this means there may be more blogs in the near future.

More good news...My parents are fantastic and gave me a digital camera for graduation! This means I will have pictures to post on the blog. No pics today because I'm at work. I have yet to figure out how to get them from the camera to the computer (I'm sure it's easier than I think). I still forget that I have it though and miss many a good pic.

Other things that tickle my fancy these days include:

"Flight of the Conchords" --Hilarious duo from New Zealand that write songs. They have a series on HBO. My roommate Jessi bought the DVD for her boyfriend (he conveniently left it at our house) and I have watched nothing else. Definitely YouTube.com worthy!
Holiday Specs--one of my dearest friends gave these, sort of like 3D glasses, away as party favors at her wedding and they are SPECTACULAR! You put them on and can see a snowflake in every point of light. Lights that work the best: Christmas tree lights, street lights, stoplights, car lights, house lights. I carry them with me where ever I go (for when ever I want a little magical moment). I also use them to pick up on guys..."Hey you want to look through my specs?"
French accents-- my roommate Michelle and I got to know this Frenchman in our ward a couple of weeks ago. He has a very thick French accent and I can't help but try to repeat everything he says. It's very entertaining! The three of us are going to a French restaurant tonight...The Paris. Jeremy says it's one of the best in town. Exciting...no?!
The Nordstrom Rack--up until about 3 weeks ago I had only gone to The Rack twice in my life. I have probably gone 4 or 5 times in the last two weeks. I went during their Red Tag Sale and ended up buying many Christmas gifts for others and myself. I've decided to take a much needed break so my pocket book can recover.

It feels really good to be back in the Blogging world and looking forward to the new year! 2008 is gonna be GREAT!

Ode To Lyd and Nat

2007-11-30T16:34:00.000-08:00

What can I say? It is almost surreal to be reminded of how well someone really knows you...I am one of the luckiest girls to have, not just one--but TWO, of my best friends in the whole wide world as cousins! Due to the fact that we share the same blood, we have been friends since birth--26 years and counting...

I can quite honestly say that these two fantastic women probably know me better than I know myself. I was reminded of this fact when Natalie, very lovingly, updated my blog for me (i.e. Madonna, that's who). She got all facts straight--from the list of my current activities, to the constant LOL (I really do laugh A LOT), to incorporating "ya'll" into my everyday vocabulary. Weird!

I can always count on Lyd and Nat to give it to me straight. To me, that is a TRUE friend. They are also always there when I need them...Natalie was my wingman one night when I was supposed to meet up with some new boys, even though she was engaged. And Lydia relocated nanny jobs and came all the way to Connecticut to be with me while I was nannying. While in Connecticut, we even made a video together to send to MTV with the hopes of meeting N*SYNC. It was one of the most memorable years of my life.

When my life seems like nothing but a quick succession of busy nothings, they are there to remind me how incredible life is! I can't thank them enough for always making me feel like I'm irreplaceable.

Thanks!

I PITY THE FOO'!

2007-11-30T16:21:00.000-08:00

That's right. I think a mischevious, or shall I say prankish, best friend/cousin/roommate thought I would find the face-lift of my blog 1) upsetting or disturbing or 2) SPECTACULAR! Mr. T RULES! I'll be honest, I don't recollect episodes of The A-Team. In fact, my only real memory of Mr. T is one of my dad dressed up as Mr. T for Halloween. It was when we lived in the Yellow House across from the Teeples (that means I was 5). My hugely creative mother even made my dad's skin brown and faked a mohawk. He even wore the ridiculous amount of gold chains. If I had a picture I would post it...alas only a hard copy exists. I truly pity anyone who has never heard of Mr. T!

Madonna, that's who

2007-11-18T02:29:00.000-08:00

My name is Shanna and this is my Halloween costume. I feel it is a very good likeness of Madonna, please note the single black lacey glove (fingerless!). LOL. I don't know where I come up with these things, but I do. LOL. I'm very good at it. What I'm not good at is updating my blog. I just feel so much pressure to say something great, because I fear that the happenings of my everyday life are not noteworthy. JK. LOL! But just now, at this very moment, I am realizing that this is not so. I have plenty to say. Just ask me! LOL! I had a date on Saturday night. I was partially responsible for some creatively racey lingerie at a bridal shower on Saturday morning. I had to cook a turkey for my ward's Thanksgiving dinner in between the bridal shower and the date. I was very busy. But because I care, I've taken the time to write this to y'all. I've also recently started incorporating "y'all" into my everyday vocabulary. I feel that it sounds unusually authentic when I say it.

Another stumbling block for my blog and me (that's what I call us ;) LOL) is that sometimes I feel a great deal of pressure to have cool pictures, but now I know this is not necessary either. I have come to realize that I just need to bless the rest of y'all with my regular ramblings, because it breaks my heart to realize that y'all click on my blog every day and are served a heaping portion of disappointment when a post has reached that more-than-a-month-old stage. It's like leftovers in the fridge that were so good at first, but once opened, just too old to enjoy. LOL!

Anyway, I've been cooking up a Shannanigans Stew for y'all, and it's been simmering for a while now. I think it's just about ready to be served. So come back with your appetites. Dinner's almost ready.

Oh yes, and one last thing I've realized - and this is a big one - is that when my cousin Natalie creates a blog for me and makes up my password for me, it is very possible that she will remember that password and take matters into her own hands when my blog gets a little too stale and she has too much time on her hands. But I know it's my own fault for not changing my password initially. That little rascal. Gosh I love her.

POOF!

2007-09-28T21:52:00.000-07:00

I just love the way that Heavenly Father makes things happen in our lives! One moment we feel that we're at a dead end; we've done all we can do...and then POOF! He answers our prayers; almost like magic. And in my case, this was a prayer that I had only said in my heart, not even formally on my knees...which makes me feel even more undeserving...

As many of you may know, I officially finished my Bachelor's degree in Radiation Therapy this summer! YAY! And with graduation comes the job hunt. Radiation Therapist jobs are hard to come by in this lovely state--good pay, great hours, no weekends, no holidays, AMAZING patients--honestly, who would want to leave their job? I knew the the job outlook was sparce when I started the program and told myself that I would look out of state then.

When September rolled around I decided it was time to seriously take action, so I looked out of state. I applied for a PRN ("on call") position at a hospital in California and another PRN position at the University of Connecticut Health Center in Farmington, CT (really close to where I used to nanny). I heard back from the hospital in California right away which was very encouraging. The HR lady told me that she had sent my resume on and that I would hear back from someone.

In the mean time....sometime at the beginning of last week.
I'm minding my business, making plans to take a resume to every treatment center in Utah--whether they were hiring or not--introduce myself to the managers so that they could put a name with a face. This particular afternoon, I had stopped by Allison's to see her and the kids, and was disappointed to see they weren't home. I let myself in and decided to wait...thinking to myself, "I really need to call those Cancer Centers today and set up some appointments..." Suddenly, my phone rings. I don't recognize the number. I don't pick up. They leave a message. So, I listen to my messages....POOF!

The message was from the Cheif Therapist at Utah Cancer Specialists, informing me that they are looking for some therapists to add to their PRN pool and would like to know if I would be interested in the position! HOLY COW!

This is where I am jumping up and down, screaming and laughing! I can't wait for Allison to get home! I couldn't believe it! Apparently he knows my old clinical instructor, Daryn, from McKay-Dee and had called him to see if he knew any therapist looking for work. Daryn, being the AWESOME guy that he is, gave him my number.

I had never spoken to Utah Cancer Specialists before; never gone there to observe; didn't know a soul in their department. I had only made plans to call them. That's it!

I am now pleased announce that I am currently the NEWEST PRN employee at UCS! Being PRN is going to help me gain more experience (even if it is only once week) and now I have my foot in the door somewhere--not just anywhere, but in UTAH! I couldn't be more pleased and extremely grateful for the chance. I love Heavenly Father! It is so nice to be reminded how aware he is of every little aspect of our lives. He really does work miracles!

P.S. I have yet to hear from the other two hospitals. Hmm.

The Wisdom of Bill & Ted

2007-09-10T21:56:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago I received some most excellent advice from my dear, dear friend, Vanessa. I have found that it can apply to almost every situation in life.

We were having late-night girl talk at her apartment; I was, of course, talking and she was patiently listening to me babble on and on. As you may have already guessed we were discussing dating and the potential prospects in our futures.

When it comes to dating I often find myself speeding ahead so far in my mind, that sometimes I'm already trying to decide whether I want to marry the guy before I even decide whether to go on a date with him. I know, this is a terrible mind set...Elder Oaks even addressed it in his talk entitled, "Dating Versus Hanging Out" If you've never heard it or read it, you should.

(http://www.lds.org/portal/site/LDSOrg/menuitem.b12f9d18fae655bb69095bd3e44916a0/?vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=ca5be2270ed6c010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&hideNav=1)

As I was splurting out the thorough analysis I had performed on a current dating/hang out dynamic I'm in...Vanessa kindly interrupted me to share this "Pearl of Wisdom" (as I like to call it). The conversation went something like this...

"Shann, this may be sort of a weird analogy, but hear me out....you know 'Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure'?"

"Yeah."

"Well, Bill and Ted try to recruit VanHalen before they even learn how to play the guitar. I think you may be trying to recruit VanHalen before you've learned to play the guitar...?"

Suddenly a light went on! Her simple advice from Bill & Ted's was exactly what I needed to hear at that moment and rang so true that it has stuck with me. In fact, I shared this with one of my roommates (we'll call her Bessi) who analyzes dating relationships almost exactly the same way I do, and Bessi found it just as enlightening. We are constantly reminding ourselves to stop trying to recruit VanHalen. We get so ahead of ourselves that we miss out on enjoying the moment!

I'm so glad that Vanessa knew what wisdom was contained within the cinematic masterpiece that is "Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure", and passed it on to me. With that...I would like to share one more tidbit from one of the greatest films of our generation...

Bill: Be excellent to each other.

Ted: Party on, dudes!

Pictures! Hoorah!

2007-08-28T17:55:00.000-07:00

I have nephews coming out my ears!!... and I love it! My little sister BriAnne just had her first baby, a son, on August 18, 2007 and my sister just older than me, Allison just had her fourth baby (second son) on August 26, 2007. They are just over a week apart and are so adorable. My sister-in-law, Nancy, also had a little boy last March. His name is Nathan and I love him!

I just figured out how to view the pictures I have taken with my phone (the only camera I have in my possession) and hopefully will be able to post them here on my blog.

INTRODUCING...MILAN TAGGART BURNS! 6 lbs. 11 oz. 20" long (?)

AND....ISAAC JUSTIN GUNNELL!! 7 lbs. 9 oz. 21"

Isn't he is soooo cute (which is to be expected when looking at his siblings!) ?

Speaking of Isaac's siblings... Here is Emma and Hannah.

These picture were taken on the way to meet Milan for the first time. Ethan's is from his first day back to school. He's so going to be a heartbreaker! This is a picture of Ethan and Milan.

AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST....NATHAN FLOYD TAGGART!

These pictures of Nathan were taken last July at one of BriAnne's baby showers. He was trying out the hottest thing in babydom....The Bumbo! I thought he looked so cute sitting there all by himself. Nathan also has a couple brothers that are so fantastically cute as well, Joshua and James. If I had pictures of them on my phone I would gladly post them here. I'll have to get some the next time I see them.

Needless to say, my family is bursting with boys!

ALL GROWN UP!

2007-08-27T18:24:00.000-07:00

Last month I took a small road trip with a couple of girlfriends to California and of course since we were in the car together for hours on end we had the opportunity to discuss the secrets of life. You know, things like boys, hair, single-life, losing weight, etc. But one of the best conversations we had was about growing up....

We (Me, Allison Travis, and Kristi Sorenson) decided that there are certain events or decisions that one makes that take them into the true realm of being a "grown up". Everyone first thinks of the obvious milestones in a person's life, i.e. getting married, having children, or having a mortgage. These are all good things that certainly require a more mature mindset and plenty of responsibility, but I would like to add to this list of what makes a person truly grown up. Here are some of the things we came up with on our long drive to and from Cali that essentially changed us, made us....GROWN UP!

1. Choosing to wear sunscreen---I'm talking nothing less than SPF 30 to protect against the suns harmful rays. (Kristi)
2. Driving in California--Freeways and city streets. This really only applies to a person who isn't used to constant traffic and jammed freeways. (Allison)
3. Being able to navigate straight to a location out-of-state that you have only been to one other time, without using Mapquest. (Shanna)

Of course there are probably more signs of growing up that we didn't come up with. Which is why I'd like to ask all of you fellow bloggers and closet bloggers to please add to my list! I would love to hear some of the things that make you feel "grown up" :)

Oh, one more thing to add to the list...
4. Choosing to spend your money on things other that clothes, music, movies, or eating out--Just today I bought a new comforter for my bed and am so looking forward to getting new sheets and a duvet. I'm very excited about having a "grown up" bedroom.
5. Going ga-ga over washers and dryers in the "Mega Labor Day Sale" at RC Willey (Lydia)
6. Being able to say "NO" and mean it--This also includes being able to send food back at a resturaunt and making sure you're not overcharged for something. (Jenny)
7. Having a checkbook and actually balancing it--I have yet to master this one. Oops, I know. Good job Emily!
8. Comparing and contrasting the pros and cons of anti-aging treatments--Look for a good magic trick to post-postponing wrinkles. (Natalie)
9. Hiring the Deacon down the street who refers to you as "Sister _____", to mow your lawn--Sister Buttars in Natalie's case!
10. Being seriously exhausted and are positive it must be well past midnight, only to glance up and see a red 9:45 glaring back at you from the clock--Amen! Amen! (Jealin)

Work-Boyfriends!

2007-08-09T13:52:00.000-07:00

I know that what your all probably thinking..."Who the heck is Ryan Jensen?" To make a long story short, I work with him and he has been keeping me company while I check everyones' blogs. Anyway, he pretty much worships the ground I walk on and keeps asking for me to profess my "true feelings" for him on my blog...you know, make it known to the world!

Ryan would like all of you to know that he is a changed man because of me! He says, I make him want to be the man that I truly deserve. He only drinks HALF as much as he used to. He says, I complete him....Isn't that touching? According to Ryan we're only best friends now, but someday he hopes to be more. He also likes to remind me that I'm no spring chicken (being 26 and all. He's 24)! Thanks Ry!

In all honesty, I do work with him at LDS and he most-likely will be my next work-boyfriend. "Work-boyfriend" is a term that Natalie came up with to describe any boy we spend most of our time with at work-- chatting and flirting. Now and then there is the occasional outside of work activity (We have been to a movie together). Ryan and I see each other for about an hour and a half at a time when our shifts overlap. He really does say some of the nicest things to me. When I first met him he kind of came off as creepy in a non-threatening kind of way, but now he's totally endearing and I look forward to seeing him at work. He is not the first and most likely, not the last. We'll see how long this quasi-relationship lasts! Cross your fingers!

Perturbed :(

2007-07-11T14:01:00.000-07:00

The other day when I was at work, I was trying to post another blog about my 4th of July activities and the happenings at the family reunion in Bear Lake....when suddenly I was called away to do an exam. I tried to save my current post so that I could return and finish. I pushed the "save to draft button", logged of the internet, and left. Much to my dismay...yep. You guessed it. IT DIDN'T SAVE! AAAAAAARGH! Needless to say I was very perturbed; so much so that it has taken me this long to get it together and make another post. I was doing so good the other day and the post was soooo funny! I really wish you all could have read it. Alas, this is what's left. Perhaps someday soon I'll be able to duplicate the magnificantness (new word you probably won't find on dictionary.com)of the missing blog.

I love the word "perturbed" (hopefully I'm spelling it right). In fact, when I spell words wrong, I get perturbed. I thought about Googling the word to make sure I spelled it right, but in this case I'm more lazy than worried about whether or not I spelled it right. Other things that perturb me include:
-wearing my socks inside out
-walking on garage floors in bare feet
-overflowing garbage cans (I inherited this from Nat since she moved out)
-my muffin top
-when my pants get too short
-buying bathroom stuff (deordorant, toothpaste, makeup, contact solution, etc). Don't get me wrong, I like using these things, but they always run out at the same time and I end up paying a small fortune to replenish my supply.

Ok, enough with the negetating! Thanks for letting me vent...that's what blogs are for anyway, right! ;)

Closet-Bloggism...It's real.

2007-07-01T19:25:00.000-07:00

I feel very humbled at this moment to be the new proud owner of my own blog! For many months now I have been a closet blogger--secretly reading and never commenting on the blogs of others. I feel like maybe I should stand up and introduce myself....Hi! My name is Shanna, and I...am...a closet blogger!

I'm not used to being the one to come up with clever stories and sayings, however, I love reading them. I suppose this is my first step toward overcoming my "closet-bloggism". I feel it pertinent to recognize two dear friends (you know who you are) who gave me my own wings to fly, and the countless family members (I love you...you are my rock) who have inspired me to take this stand and make my mark on the World Wide Web!

sneak attack

2007-06-29T10:39:00.000-07:00

This is not Shanna quite yet as she has not yet been informed of the existence of this blog. This is Natalie, her cousin/roommate/best friend. Lydia already holds the title of cousin/best friend, so although I am no longer her roommate since running off and getting hitched, I must keep 'roommate' in the title to differentiate between Lydia and I. After having been inspired by Mike & Lydia's blog postings keeping all of us updated on the delivery of their first baby, I started writing in my blog just this week (with Emily Robinson's help - she created my blog for me). And after thoroughly discussing it with Emily, we have decided that Shanna needs to have her own blog. So I've saved her the trouble of creating the blog herself by creating it for her. Shanna, I hope you like it! This is our sneak attack.

The name of this blog came from the pleasant pairing of Shanna's first name with the word 'shenanigans.' Dictionary.com defines shenanigans as follows:

she·nan·i·gan (shə-nān'ĭ-gən):

a. A playful or mischievous act; a prank.
b. Mischief; prankishness. Often used in the plural.

Playful? Mischievous? Prankishness? I like the sounds of all of it, and thus, Shanna's blog is born.

I love you Shanna! I miss you terribly now that I don't live across the hall from you. Vegas is a much farther walk to see your smiling face in the morning. It's hard to replace moments shared brushing our teeth together in the tiny robin-egg-blue-gas-station-style-sink in the basement of our Salt Lake house. And so I feel that blogging is a happy compromise. Share anything you like: thoughts, ramblings, venting sessions, jokes of the day, dating drama (i beg you). Pretty please with cherries on top - blog away.

Love your guts,
~Natalie