celebrities that have made a guest appearance in her dreams.

This morning, my good friend Elizabeth tweeted about have a really weird dream that she got married to Tracy Morgan at the age of 17. That made me laugh a lot. I think Tracy Morgan is hilarious, and on top of that, I could just completely identify with it because I have very weird dreams sometimes which include all kinds of people including celebrities. Here are just a few (Don’t be freaked out… I can remember dreams I had from my childhood):

1. Jonathan Brandis. Yes, I can remember the first time I saw Never Ending Story I had a dream that I went to school with Jonathan Brandis and he was my boyfriend. That was the best dream for an eight year old. Funny thing is… I married David Harris, his twin. HA!

2. The Cast of Lost. There was a time when I lived in Germany that I was catching up on Lost from Seasons 1-3 and pretty much watched nothing else. I can remember more than one occasion when I was stuck on the island trying to figure out what the heck was going on! Though it was weird like a dream, and I could just walk back into my living room any time I pleased.

3. Justin Timberlake (pre the days of him becoming cool). This was when he was in N-Sync and I didn’t care for him very much. Have you ever had a dream about a person or a celebrity that you didn’t like, but after having that dream you suddenly had a fondness for them? Now I know what you are thinking…. No, it was not THAT kind of dream. HA! But he did have a crush on me. And we went on a date together. For some reason, from that point forward, I was a Justin fan. It also helped once he went solo and stepped up his game and hosted SNL and all that…

4. Javier Bardem (No Country For Old Men). Well this dream didn’t last long… Within the first few moments of realizing Anton was in my dream, my body made every attempt to wake itself up.

5. Sarah Jessica Parker. I’ve had a couple dreams where she will be shopping with me, and we’re having girl talk. I think any Sex and The City fan has had this dream at least once. I still want to own a pair of Manolo Blahnik’s before I die.

6. Carrot Top…. ok this one is completely made up, but man! That would be one crazy nightmare if it were true. That guy creeps me the eff out!

7. Ryan Gosling. What girl (or guy for that matter! ha!) DIDN’T dream about him after seeing The Notebook?

8. Wes Anderson (!!!) I had a dream that I actually had a chance to make a movie and at one point I met up with Wes Anderson to share my ideas with him and pick his brain. Again, it being a dream, mid conversation he turned into someone else and the dream went in a totally different direction, but I remember waking up feeling motivated to write more.

9. Larry David. Again, when I was in Germany, I has phases and time periods where I was really addicted to watching DVD box sets. Curb Your Enthusiasm was one of them. I had a dream that Larry David and David Harris got in a fight because (of course) Larry did something to piss David off. Turns out, David ended up needing something from Larry in the end, thus making it awkward and the famous theme song woke me up.

I need you to leave comments. Tell me all about your crazy celebrity dreams. 😉

favorite songs on her iPod that are under two minutes long.

a random, very specific list? yes. if you know me, you shoulda expected exactly something like this from me.

1. Parachutes by Coldplay (0:46)

2. All You See by J. Tillman (0:48)

3. From Me To You by Reggie and The Full Effect (1:26)

4. Orange Juice by Grand Archives (1:32)

5. Swing Low Sweet Chariot by She & Him (1:37)

(And really… could Zoey Deschanel be any cuter in this picture? I want to be her)

6. Sweet Sweet by Smashing Pumpkins (1:39)

7. You Never Arrived by Midlake (1:40)

8. Tautou by Brand New (1:43)

9. Islands by Cat Power (1:44)

songs from the 80’s she can identify in less than five seconds.

No explanations needed…

1. “Thriller” by Michael Jackson

2. “In The Air Tonight” by Phil Collins

3. “Any Way You Want It” by Journey

4. “Lord of All” by Carmen (YES! this does count!)

5. “I Ran” by Flock of Seagulls

6. “Take On Me” by A-Ha

7. “Kiss” by Prince

8. “I Want To Break Free” by Queen

9. “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper

there are plenty more. But for now I digress… What are some of yours?

memories of snow

1. What I think was my very first snow was when I was about 5 years old when we lived in Lancaster, Texas. As rare as it is for a Texan to see snow, it’s even MORE of a rarity for Hawaiians to see it. So needless to say, my parents were ecstatic! They bundled me and my sister up. Shayla in a fuchsia jacket, and me in a turquoise one that resembled the kid on Christmas Story who couldn’t move his arms. We made a snow man. We ate the falling snow. We put sunglasses and a hat on our snow man (Thanks, dad). I actually remember this almost as clear as yesterday. My parents always made moments like those extremely memorable.

2. Valentines Day 2003. (or was it 2002?) I’m not sure of the exact year, but I remember David and I were dating, and he came over to my house to give me a card and have a snowball fight with me.

3. Christmas morning, 2008. Nick, Shayla, and the kids all stayed the night at our house and it had snowed on Christmas Eve. Luckily enough it stuck around for the next morning, and that was the first, and possibly only white Christmas I’ll ever have.

4. I don’t remember exactly how old I was… but it snowed a couple more times when we lived in Lancaster. And I remember one instance where Shayla and I went to play outside in the snow together, and of course- she made me cry. We both made our OWN snowmen. Mine resembled hers of course. She didn’t like that I was copying her, so she pushed mine over. When I started to cry, she proceeded to push ME over in the snow. Aw sisterly love 😉

5. Sometime last year, it barely snowed one day. June was really tiny so I dressed her up and took her outside. Her face turned red fast, so I got paranoid and went inside after only a few moments.

6. Germany 2006 (February) We let our dogs run around in the snow. That was a great memory for me because they were having so much fun… and they seemed so freaked out by it. I miss those dogs sometimes.

7. Germany 2006 (November or December. Can’t remember which one) David is “out in the field” as the Army calls it. Basically he was about 300 miles away outside doing some kind of training. I think I might have stepped outside for a moment, or possibly walked to Martha’s house. But I remember missing David very much. So much so, I pretty much ignored the snow.

8. April of 2005. Now this wasn’t necessarily snow… but in Texas, when you don’t get snow… hail can be pretty exciting. And this hail storm sticks out in my head, because the hail accumulated enough to make it look like it had snowed. I took pictures and sent them to David while he was in basic training. Anyone remember that storm?

9. Today. February 11, 2010. I woke up pretty early today. Wanted to see if David still had school or not. I’ve been sitting on my love seat that is by my window. It’s really pretty today. The window looks right over a small field where the trees are covered. Snow covered trees are one of the most pretty sites to me. I love how on snowy days you can’t really tell where the sky ends and where the land begins. It’s a white sky, white covered everything, and white snow falling at a steady pace. Laptop in my lap, cup of coffee in my hand. It’s a good, peaceful morning. And the best part? In houses near and far, the ones I love the most are sharing this morning with me in their own way.

** Immediately after posting this, my mom called me. Exactly what I mean… I love hearing her describe how much she loves this snow… I love my family.

++ I also added a picture of my precious baby girl, June, from yesterday after I posted this blog. We had so much fun playing in the snow!! Probably my top snow memory for now.

things she should go back and tell her single self

Crysti Robertson gave me the suggestion to write a list on “Nine Things My Single Self Would Tell My Married/Mommy Self”. Great idea 🙂 But after thinking it through, I think my married self has a lot more things I wish I could go back and tell my single self. For instance….

1. Did it ever occur to you, single teenage Shanelle, that buying clothes from thrift stores means other stinky people have worn those clothes? AND you have no idea where those clothes have been?

2. Getting your driver’s license before the age of 18 might be a good idea. Convince your parents to let you… or your friends might resent you.

3. Kissing boys isn’t as sacred as you may think. 13 year old Shanelle… you’re waiting for a “special moment”, but you aren’t thinking about the fact that when you are older, you might regret not kissing that handsome kicker of the Varsity football team you were dating.

4. You don’t have to believe everything you were told to. Look into it. Research it… It’s worth it.

5. Hey engaged Shanelle! It’s YOUR wedding. Don’t let the florist talk you into something you don’t want. You only get one day like this one and you should have everything YOU want.

6. Ska? Really?

7. Don’t let anyone, even your student leaders, even John Michael Barajas, talk you into playing the “World’s Strongest Woman” contest. You’ll end up throwing up in front of your entire youth group at camp… and people will run up to the front to get pictures of it. Sigh….

8. Maybe you should put more thought into college. It’s gonna suck starting it at the age of 26!

9. You’re doing a good job, kiddo. Your goals include loving those that matter, and getting the most you can out of life. Just remember, don’t settle for anything less than what you deserve. And oh yeah… you have one helluva ride ahead of you! 😉

wigs she would wear just for the heck of it.

Or better yet… if someone were to ask me why I would wear these wigs, I would reply with a simple- “Why not?”

1.  

Because if I’m gonna do it, I’m gonna Pompadour it.

2.

Because “I’m Rick James, bia…”

3.

Because Jesus definitely used a curling iron to get that perfect shape to his mustache.

4.

Because I would be pretty sexy in a chili-bowl, Lloyd Christmas kinda do.

5.

Because who WOULDN’T want to look like Raquel Welsh. (Seriously, after google-ing funny wigs, I’ve noticed she is like the queen of this industry!)

6.

Because it’s always been my goal to scare little children.

7.

Because I found this one in the “Fancy Wig” category

8.

Because I’ve always wanted my hair to be twice the size of my head, AND still be fierce.

9.

Because according to the website, this wig should CLEARLY be in the men’s section.

heehee. that was fun. if you find any links to funny pictures of wigs, let me know. I’d love to see them. More great blogs to come in 2010… including a suggested one from my good friend Crysti Robertson. Be looking forward to my list of nine things my single-self should say to my mommy-self.

amazing albums released in 2009. (and the top two tracks)

This list is based on albums that I have listened to over the year. These are the ones that have stood out to me the most, had the most playtime on my iPod, and stayed on my playlists throughout the months.

9. “Far” Regina Spektor

(The Calculation) (Dance Theme of the 80’s)

8. “Acid Tongue” Jenny Lewis

(See Fernando) (Acid Tongue)

7. “Actor” St. Vincent

(Just the Same but Brand New) (Actor Out of Work)

6.  “Year In The Kingdom” J. Tillman

(Howling Light) (Though I Have Wronged You)

5. “Strict Joy: Deluxe Version” The Swell Season

(The Rain) (I Have Loved You Wrong: Live Version)

4. “Blood Bank” Bon Iver

(Woods) (Blood Bank)

3. “Ellipse” Imogen Heap

(Wait It Out) (Tidal)

2. “Curse Your Branches” David Bazan

(When We Fell) (In Stitches)

1. “Mean Everything to Nothing” Manchester Orchestra

(I’ve Got Friends) (Shake It Out)

Honorable Mentions:

* “Incredibad” The Lonely Island: This album got a lot of playtime especially when I have been stressed out. It makes me laugh. I always need that.

* “Veckatimest” Grizzly Bear: I’m not sure why I haven’t been listening to this album sooner, but I think this only didn’t make the list because I haven’t got to listen to it enough

* “Middle Cyclone” Neko Case: I didn’t like her a few years ago when I heard her for the first time, but when I heard this album, I absolutely loved it.

amazing concerts of 2009.

I had the privilege of attending a dozen or so live concerts this year. In high school, I was at a local show every weekend, but before this year, I hardly ever got to see bands I loved live for awhile. On top of getting to be a part of some incredible performances, I was also fortunate to be accompanied by friends that are near and dear to me, and on a few occasions, my handsome hubby was able to be with me as well. Here is a brief account of the shows that stood out the most to me, in the order of when they were attended.

1. The New Frontiers Final Show – It was sad to say goodbye to such a phenomenal group, who were also my friends, but this show was a great way to say goodbye. This was a very memorable show.

2. Flight of the Conchords – Our seats really sucked, as you will see in the video below. But I was so happy to be there and sing along to their hilarious songs. They opened with “Robots” in which they were dressed up in their cardboard outfits. haha!

3. Sarah Jaffe – I am so thankful my sister introduced me to her music. It is very haunting and moving, and seeing her live is no different. I saw her twice this year, and both times were great.

4. Jenny Lewis – She is by far THE most adorable person to see live. I wanted to marry her by the end of the night. Favorite songs were “See Fernando”, which she opened with, and “The Charging Sky”.

5. David Bazan – I was so wrapped up in this show, that I didn’t get any video, but let me just say… this was such a good show. Probably #2 of the year. It would be hard for me to pick a favorite song, because they all blew me away.

6. Regina Spektor – she is one of those people that you have to see live before you judge her music. I already loved her anyways, but this concert left me speechless. She did a good range of old and new songs, and as you will see in the video, she did this acapella song about who people are based on their eye colors. I wish you could have been there just for that song alone. Here are the lyrics just to show you how cute it was. http://bit.ly/4vXpWB

7. Imogen Heap – and this is it folks. the show I’ve been waiting years to attend. It was everything I expected and more. Her first song was “First Train Home” and I couldn’t help but tear up when I saw her. I know, I’m a dork. But she is truly an innovator and she changed my life, and helped me fall back in love with music over six years ago. The encore was the best part of the night. She started with “Hide and Seek” and continued with an audience-participating version of “Just For Now”.  I will never forget this night as long as I live.

8. Yo Gabba Gabba – Readers of this blog already know my undying love for DJ Lance Rock, but this day was so special to me. You will see in the video how excited June was to be there. It made my heart happier than it has been in a long time. For those who don’t watch the show, Biz Markie is a reoccurring performer and was able to be on their live tour. The crowd went nuts when he got on stage, and rightfully so. All in all, this was one of the best days we’ve had as a family ever. I loved it.

9. J. Tillman – I almost didn’t go to this show, because it was the same day as Yo Gabba Gabba, but after some talking into by good friends, I went. And I’m so glad I did. Josh Tillman’s voice could calm the worst storm. He is even more unbelievable live than I could have imagined. Josh and his band really brought the house down with “Though I Have Wronged You” It made me very emotional, in the best way possible.

Here is a video of seven of these performances. Apologies for my shaky hands, and poor focus on some of the clips. Hope you enjoy sharing a little bit of these shows with me.

favorite TV show characters of 2009.

1. Taco from The League. So I know he might be the obvious choice from this show, and his character could get old after awhile if not developed, but seriously… his songs have made me laugh til my face turned red. HI-LARIOUS!

2. Sue Sylvester from glee. If my alter-ego could be one person when she grew up, I’d hope it would be her.

3. Finn from glee. So he’s not the best actor in the world. None of them on that show are. But he is such a cutie and has a fantastic voice. I would have definitely pushed for him to be my dance partner in show choir 😉

4. Cam from Modern Family. If you haven’t started watching this show yet- get to it! This show is not too over-the-top, but it is absolutely hilarious without trying too hard. And Cam… well, let’s just say, if Cam were a real person, he would be my BFF… except when he dressed up as Fizbo. haha!

5. J-Roc from Trailer Park Boys. So I know this show has been around for awhile, but I just started watching it this year. But he is officially my favorite wigga of all time.

6. Jack Donaghy from 30 Rock. Who doesn’t love him? And after last week’s episode, he won my heart! The best gift giver ever? Amazing.

7. Matt Saracen from Friday Night Lights. For those of you who watch this show, you will know that Saracen went through a lot this last season, and I think his acting was phenomenal. He’s also always been one of my favorite characters on that show since I started watching it.

8. Jonathan Aimes from Bored to Death. I love me some Jason Schwartzman, and his character on this show is no exeption. If you missed out on this HBO show, I’m sure you can find it somewhere on the internet.

9. Jason Sudekis on Saturday Night Live. This is the second list he has been on, and for many good reasons. He is absolutely hilarious in most of his skits, and I also love his guest appearances on 30 Rock.

worst movies she’s ever seen.

Again, if a movie is omitted from this list, it is probably simply because I’ve never seen it. You won’t see Gigli on here because I’ve never seen it.

1. Kazaam. Unfortunately I had the non-pleasure of seeing this at a friend’s house as a kid. Even then I knew it was terrible.

2. From Justin to Kelly. Need I say more?

3. Biker Boys. David dragged me to see this movie when we were dating. I laughed out loud on more than one occasion in the theater and received many dirty looks.

4. A.I. I thought the movie was ending at least 4 different times. Terrible. and while we’re at it…

5. Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skulls. Steven Spielberg and George Lucas should never ever do a movie together ever again. I’m done with aliens people!!

6. Phonebooth. Ugh, and most movies with Colin Farell in them.

7. Kate & Leopold. That movie was confusing in the worst ways.

8. Little Nicky. Adam Sandler just needs to learn how to stop sometimes. Just stop.

9. Just My Luck. I am highly ashamed that I even saw this movie. Lindsay Lohan, you won’t be getting an oscar anytime soon, sweetie.

There is definitely more that should be on this list, but this will do for now. Add some! Leave comments. I’d love to hear what you think…