sorry, no title.

I don't know why I'm up blogging. If I'm up I should be cleaning my room or working on other stuff. I just feel this need to though. Wait, I say that like I have something specific to blog about. I don't. On that note--Ready? Here we go..

Well Mark's getting taller. It's so weird how a day by day thing you don't notice it then you stand next to each other and it's like WHAT THE where is this coming from!? Kristine is going to freak out when she comes home in 21 hours and see's how tall he is. 

Thanksgiving was a dream. Cousins were stricken ill the morning of Thanksgiving so extended family times were cancelled (note: the night before I just went and saw Contagion so that was a frightening thought to hear the next morning). Mother being the wonder woman that she is whipped up an incredible thanksgiving meal in just a few hours. It was a fun small thanksgiving with the top people that I'm thankful for. EVERY year I get a picture of the beautiful table set up. I can't believe I failed this year. 

 After the meal and some hilarious rounds of Loaded Questions--we checked in with Kristine who didn't celebrate Thanksgiving over in Europe..even though for some reason I was sure the French did. odd.

 TWENTY-ONE HOURS PEOPLE.

 On a sad note, roommate Liz decided to wake up to a car smashing into her PARKED car. Won't be parking on the street anymore no sir. Best part of it all {which we can now laugh about because it's no longer too soon--this crazy girl was avoiding a CAT IN THE ROAD.} Add that to the list of "Why Nicole Erin Hates Cats" ps that list is really not a joke. Poor Liz. She's a champ, and looks great in her rental.

 Well it's been a pretty spectacular break. A week or two ago I got sick and decided to recuperate at home and I accidentally haven't been back to my other house. It's just been so great sleeping in a warm bed and hanging out with Brother. Do you blame me? {Ashley, Mia, Sarah, Kate, Liz, and Alyssa-don't answer that}

Ohh Celine did it again.

Okay old {BUT GREAT} news: I'm obsessed with Celine.
While watching her DVD of her world tour a millionth time there is a part where a little girl tells her story about her and her mom escaping her abusive father. She is an incredible singer and through Oprah she was able to come to one of Celine's world tour concerts in New York I believe and sing a duet with her. She is incredible and have just always loved that part of the video. That little girl is seriously INCREDIBLE. Here that part is. Excuse the beginning of the youtube vid. It's the only one I can find:




Anyways, while watching that SJ pointed out that she's actually that new girl on Glee! That's great that she just became famous through this and is now on Glee. I've only seen like one or two episodes with her in it because lets get real--Glee is just being nuts now. But yay for Celine making you famous!

BLa.Fri

Oh black Friday. What a phenomenon. 

I was so back & forth about going because I didn't know who would even want to go with me. With everyone being out of town, B had to be at work at like 6 the next morning and Shaun had work as well. Mark being the great person that he is was always up for hanging out with the sister. After going back and forth I decided that I would just go early the next morning and not at Midnight to my beloved Park City outlets. On the drive home from Pleasant Grove, Shaun and I decided randomly just go! So we picked up Mark and headed up just as the outlets were opening...or so we thought. As we arrived at like 12:11 AM we were seeing people running to their cars with their hands full of bags. There was no way that they got in and out of the stores in 11 minutes. Although lets get real some people are crazy. Much to our dismay we figured out that the Park City outlets opened up at 10 PM! We only cared for two seconds because then we walked into Banana Republic and saw the WHOLE STORE WAS 50% OFF. . .

You people need to understand. I almost refuse to go in there with Brit or Ashley when they go in because it is so expensive. I'm sorry call me cheap but Forever 21 will always hold my heart. But 50% off I could definitely handle. SJ starts his big job next week and was in dire need of some profession clothing to wear everyday. So of course he went crazy. But he had to be at work in 6 hours so he was definitely going to make this trip worth it. Mark and I were almost on the floor laughing when we were trying to sprint to the next store and Shaun had to carry his huge Banana bag while still trying to put on one of his shirts. I found THE MOST AMAZING SCARF in the world that I have been dying to get but winced at the fact that I had to drop so much money on it. But I will gladly take half. Mark got some goodies as well. 

Was able to get home at 3 which was better/faster than last year. Didn't get my cam out until the end. Mark may look asleep but do not be alarmed--he was able to walk from the car to his bed. The last thing he said to me was "I'm not changing. I don't care if my clothes are dirty. I'll pay the consequences and wash my sheets tomorrow, GOODNIGHT." Nothing like ending a great Thanksgiving day with shopping with my boys. 

Oh What Lovelies.

I know I'm a day late, but you can always be thankful!

I hope everybody is having a SPLENDID Thanksgiving break...

I know I am :)

I told you I would get to my thankful post and here it is.

I was shocked with how many people bless my life. There are seriously so many. I only chose a few that are currently in my life. But it's amazing to just think of how many people you come in contact with throughout your day that make you smile. Here are a few in mine:

Brittany Gretta-

Oh this girl could hold her own in any situation. She is so elegant, and graceful but yet so opinionated and strong at the same time. I know she would do anything for me in a split second because that is what she already does. So many things in my life remind me of Brit which is good because we’re not around each other 24.7 anymore so it’s always good to have a reminder or two and take a minute to think and smile about this best friend that is so sensational. I don’t care what she thinks or how hard on herself she seems to be—I know she can do anything. She has overcome so many different things in her life that nothing is going to get in her way. She is so beautiful and has so much fashion knowledge it blows my mind. So many people look up to Brit and I love that because that makes me proud of the person that she is. I’d do anything for that blonde bombshell. 

Chandler Anne-

MY BESTEST FRIEND SINCE ELEMENTARY spent her Thanksgiving in the MTC this year. So blessed having her out there serving the Lord and I can feel the blessings of her service daily. Chandler Anne is one of the smartest girls I know. School means the world to her (even if most the time she hates it) so it really was a big sacrifice to pause the school times and head off to the Philippines with a smiling face. Chandler’s laugh is so incredible. You can recognize it ANYWHERE. She is so serviceable and always doing nice things for people without needing that recognition that most people need. People’s feelings are so important to her. If I could think of one person that would use the cliché Miss America Pageant answer of “world peace” as their motto—that is Chandler Anne. I love and miss her so much but know she is rocking it out there. 

Becky Rene-

Becks and I are going on two years but it feels likes 17 so that’s strange. Becky is incredible and everyone knows it. I have had soo many boys people tell me that they are just drawn to this light about her. When people tell me that I’m like DUH why do you think she’s one of my best friends. It’s so refreshing and great. She can be crazy. She can be REALLY crazy. But there are times where she can be serious and so knowledgeable. She’s always up for anything fun. I love that she calls me usually after work or some activity she was at just to see if I’m up for anything or even just to say hi. Becks is a dreamer. Although I make fun of her for having so many dreams that she thinks are going to be realities, I think I am just envious of it. One after another she is crossing things off her list and I’m happy for her. I got to experience the wonderful time when she crossed off Hawaii on her list.  I love vacations with her. You know how sometimes you can get sick of people on a trip? Well I get sick of EVERYONE on a trip except Becky. It’s so weird. Even to the final night of our 2.5 week excursion we still had to have our pillow talk. Parkers Mom was so confused why we were still sharing a room when she had enough rooms for all of us to have our own. I love this girl and the testimony she has. The love she has for every single person. She’s my constant reminder to love everyone and not judge anyone. She has her own opinions about people and doesn’t let anyone skew her own. Becky Rene is going to change the world.

 Ashley Kay-

When I think of Ash you can’t help but think of her huge smile and bright happy eyes. She’s so beautiful. Everyone is asking me why she is always so happy. I love that about her. People are drawn to that. She’s such a hard worker. Although at times it’s so hard and frustrating, she vents a little bit and goes back the next day with a smile and a new attitude. She teaches me so much. She teaches me how to love. She teaches me patience and giving people the benefit of the doubt. I had the honor of finally living with this chicka this semester and it was such a joy. The best times have just been sitting on her bed while she’s getting ready or going to bed and just talking or showing each other dumb things on the internet. She has helped me through some pretty hard times and it was just her smile that kept me through! I love her I love her I love her.

Jessica Farns-

I’m telling you I have so many incredible missionaries out there and Jessica is another one. I have never met such an in-tuned girl before. This faithful Sister has been waiting to serve since we graduated high school. Hearing her talk about it non-stop for 3 years was a blessing. Jessica is always so happy. She is always wondering what she can do to lift up the not so happy. I hold countless drives with this pretty girl so close to my heart. I am one to just sit and talk and talk with someone and Jessica is the same way. I would always get into the deepest conversations with her and we’d both come out feeling that we were changed for the better. I knew I was. I miss her laugh as well. 

Shaun Michael-

 Shaunnnny Michael is. . .funny. But that’s not why I like him did you know? Everyone thinks (including him probably) that I love him because he’s a comedian—WRONG. Not going to lie, of course sense of humor was probably close to the number one on my “list.” And that is a huge part of it because lets get real he will have you laughing hysterically in his shows or even at the dinner table but it’s more than that. Shaun wants to succeed. And will. If he gets assigned a job he’ll do it and do it more than well. Family is one of the most important things to him. (and with his amazing family I can see why) He loves spending time with them sometimes more than going out. I got the opportunity to see this summer how such a leader he is. Along with being a leader he is such a friend to others, which I think is hard for some people to be able to balance that out. He not only sincerely cares about my life but the people that are close to me. Much to his dismay, 9 out of 10 times it’s usually Shaun and the girls and it means a lot to me that he doesn’t complain (out loud) about that {haha}. He is very blessed in the musical talent section and has SUCH an incredible voice. Shaun is always looking for ways that he can make my day better. He is such an understanding sympathetic person but at the same time believes in you and that you can overcome anything.

Parker John-

Of course this list couldn’t exist without Parker’s name on it. I have been so fortunate to come so close to Park. {which may I add, can be difficult because he knows the whole world and the whole population loves and adores him} When I talk about Parker I have mentioned before that if you called him with a problem he’d be the first one on your doorstep. It’s just what he does. He’s so big-hearted (literally). He gets along with anyone and everyone. His sincere, real laugh sounds like it belongs in a haunted house but I love it. He’s a protector and an incredible advice giver. I have only 1 or 2 guy friends I can trust with everything and for me that’s Parker.

Hamilton Ross-

 Ross is a new edition from the Summer. I’ve talked about him before in my post about my EFY fam but he’s just that special that I’m writing about him again! Ross has become one of my closest friends in the last few months. Whenever we’re doing anything fun you just can’t help but think that it would be more fun if Ross was there. I hate having to feel like I need to entertain people but with Ross-he’s fine with just doing nothing. His friends mean a lot to him and along with a lot of people on this post, he would do anything for them. His humor is too much. Who can even be funny in their text? Oh, Rossy Sauce can. I’m so grateful for that possum of mine..

Kate Angelica- 

I had heard nothing but good things for months before Kate actually came into my life. She is Ashley’s best friend and my blessed roommate. Which sometimes probably isn’t the best because I can’t even tell you how many occasions we have lost track of time getting into one of our deep discussions. I cherish this pretty girl’s opinions and example. She is incredible! She served a mission in New York and continues to share her beliefs to anybody that she comes in contact with through her bright positive light. I have never met a better listener which I know can sometimes be hard because I love nothing more than to listen. I know, how can you be GOOD at listening? I don’t know, Kate can.

I am so amazed at how fortunate I was able to get in the friend department.

I can't even start on how lucky I am with the family department as well! (that deserves it's own post)

Look at the people around you.

Smile.

Be grateful!

Cheers.

PAINT on my FACE

All I have to say is IT HAPPENED. Paint on my face. I have literally waited months to make this happen. Chan and I went to some party a few months back but we didn't have time to wait in line. When we all went to Cornbelly's last month it cost too much. Why would I pay for something that I wash off two hours later? We went to the lighting of Riverwoods which was SO magical and I was willing to even pay this time because I wanted it so bad! While waiting for the others to get there Shaun and I found the building full of kids running/screaming around anticipating the arrival of Santa. I didn't even care-I was waiting in line however long it took. SJ pointed out that no parents were getting it. Did I care? Sorry, no. Well once we finally made it up to the lady, she stood up from her seat to reach our faces. She only fueled the fire to Shaun's fears by saying that yes she does do parents faces but not usually males. He still decided to play along for me. A kid right before him got his spidy-man on so Shaun requested that. The rest of night walking around and listening to the music we had countless people ask where we got it done. Mmhmm. We're cool. And did so much advertising for that sweet lady's company. That wasn't even the beginning of our magical night but definitely probably Nicole's highlight of it. We met up with Park, Spencer, and Becky boo. Such a fun Christmas night. When's thanksgiving again??

phone goodies.

Every now and then I unload my phone pics to the computadora. 

Here is the latest and greatest:

 Mother took her two favorites that actually live in Utah to Puss in Boots. 

{it was alright}

 Had a photo booth experience with a couple besties. 

Saw only the classiest of classy at Walmart. 

 Visited my CUTE Liz Smith Gardner and her husband and just had to take a picture of her BEAUTIFUL house that she just whipped out herself. 

 ..and after a long day. You can't help but feel warm inside when you get out of the car and see this bad boy.

Feeling SO humbled and blessed this past weekend.
My yearly "thankful for special people in my life" post is aaa comin'. 
Stay tuned!


...and when I say yearly I only mean--I did it last year. Why not this year?
Cheers.

who is even cute in the morning?

It was a Friday night last night.

We didn't do anything THAT crazy although it was 11.11.11 but Ash and I stayed up late (k fine it's called pinterest). 

But finally the bed routine happened:

• the two sweatshirts came on.
• the socks..
• the ear plugs
• the shirt covering my eyes {to avoid the light of a roommate or the early morning sunrise beaming through my blinds}

--bottom line I'm high maintenance and it's embarrassing--

I fell asleep and what felt like four minutes later I get woken up. Mind you, when people wake me up they have to literally shake me in order to wake me up since my INCREDIBLE earplugs are so great. I pull my shirt away from my eyes to see the beautiful Amelia. I can see her mouthing some words but can't hear a thing so I take my earplugs out and hear her say "Nicole. Shaun's here." I was so confused. I felt like I was still asleep. Either that or something was wrong. The next thing I know SJ is behind her with a hot chocolate in his hand! Still super confused I'm wondering why he is at my house this early. I remember him telling me the day before that he is going to go to Starbucks for himself before his early morning meeting so I'm thinking he hasn't even gone to his meeting yet and confused why he's WAKING ME UP SO EARLY. but then of course I check my phone. Oh hey boy, it's only...

TEN:THIRTY-SEVEN. 

My bad. 

Long story short.

1. Remember how in junior high or high school where your mom would secretly imply that you should clean your room or be semi-cute because your friends were kidnapping you in the morning? You should consider maybe treating every night like that.

2. Mia, sorry you had to see me at my best this morning.

3. I have the best boyfriend in the world.

ps just so everyone is aware i hate when girls post like this. there's always a time for everything though..

soundproof

So the music department at UVU is so incredible. The music professors have such dedication and kindness. I got to know one of the piano professors pretty well through my choir class that I took a couple years back. I have had the pleasure of making a deal with him this semester. If I tutor his beginner piano students--he will give me a few lessons every other week. Although I have been pretty busy so I haven't been able to do it a lot, it really is so fun. It makes me miss it so much. Going to Mark's piano recitals brings a flood of memories. Practicing, short finger nails, emotions, recitals, metronomes, competitions. Although I do miss the days of teaching and seeing that lightbulb go off in my students, I think I miss focusing and improving on myself more. You definitely lose it if you don't keep up with it. Today I got to lock myself in one of those piano practice rooms where the students take finals and practice and such. I ended up being in there for an hour. I loved it. Nobody could hear me. I had countless pieces that I could just flip through and sightread. I was surprised how powerful and motivating it was. If there is one thing I miss terribly it is my piano talent. Here's to making time for the things we love! Now where are my finger-nail clippers...

Happppppppy FRIDAY!

Just a few thoughts for Wednesday:

• Pinterest has caught MY interest. I know it's an old thing probably but it's new to Nicole Erin. Who wants to stay home and do crafts all day, say iiiiiiiiiiii.

• It's about that time again for me to change my blog-look weekly! Or it so it seems. I apologize. 

• All I have to say is: Michael Buble new christmas album? YES please.

• I'm making SJ watch One Tree Hill with me. Yes I have watched the whole series (up until Lucas and Peyton leave) but it's been years and it's always fun to watch it with someone else for the first time. Even if he's good with predicting what the new drama is going to be. . . 

• Last night we had to kidnap my roommate and take her to a Sushi place for her birthday party that her friends were putting on. I was accused of being the ''rude kidnapper''. I'm sorry I played the part. "Shut up. Don't say a word. Now wait here so I can find a dumpster to throw you in.." It was fun OKAY!? Love my roomo's. 

• Speaking of the Sushi place. Sarah, Ash, and I ordered----water. and a straw.

• Told cute Kate I was eating healthy now. Then she proceeded to point out the Cheese-it's and candy on my desk. I hate her sometimes.

• I wish there was more CES firesides.

• TIME FOR ANOTHER TRIP.

• I'm grateful for siblings. 

Brother.Sister Dates.

I love spending time with OLD baby brother. He's hilarious. I don't know where the comedy/witty comments come from. Probably comes with the height! Which is a good thing because he's been trying out for the high school basketball team. Today is day 3 and the final day/cut. Goooood luck Markie-Mark. You're amazing!

 Ps. remember when you used to be BABY brother?

and now I take you driving?

can't be real.

Love you!
wear a seatbelt.

I now understand the phrase male chauvinist pig

In my ethics and values class we usually have discussions--more like debates--on a certain issue that we previously had read about or researched the day before. I usually sit in the back and listen/laugh at the people around me. Yesterday was a different story.


The reading was on feminism.


I have never even given an extra thought about this word. To me it was like a personal choice and I didn't really care too much about it. Even if my sister Kristine and BFF Brittany are the definition of it-it just never hit me. UNTIL I sat there listening to these male pigs in my class pound women against the wall. The problem might have been due to the fact that I am 1 of 3 people in a class of 25. 


The teacher made it known that usually women don't really speak up in ratio's such as this so after we heard from some of the male pigs she let us speak. I voiced my concern how I didn't even care about it and often times the world has seen it as a type of complaining from women. But if it's done right-it actually can be very powerful. All it really is, is women studies. 


I couldn't believe some of the comments that these guys made. Even this married rich well respected fellow in my class gave the most horrible remarks. I think I just have a rough crowd that fills this later class in the day at UVU. I hope that's it. Please tell me not all males are like this. 


"It's just not ethical. You don't see me forming groups and going around town making a huge fuss about why can't I have children. It's just not ethical."


"I don't know what women are fighting for anymore. We have made it so you can come and attend school with us. Although you'll just attend it and drop out once you're married anyway. I put women in the same category as the blacks. What are they complaining about? Discrimination? We're letting you run our country."


"I actually would rather feed the kids cheerios than go to work every morning so please don't complain."






I was so worked up as you could imagine-and I'm not even a feminist!
Kristine and Brit: keep fighting that fight you strong women of mine...
Sorry venting for two shakes.
Peace.

 Things I have loved lately:




going to stake conference on a sunny october morning with these honey's. 








becoming cat status with ashley kay

 spending time with SJ

skyping my FRENCH sister in Europe.

and something i can't tell if i love or not--becoming dark again. lets get real, i needed a change and brown was just dying to make an appearance according to my roots.