Day 364: Singleton Slumber Party!

Tonight I had a slumber party with the Singletons! Maggie and Alan went to a nice, peaceful dinner downtown and booked a hotel room for the night by the Galleria. They left the kid's and me at the house to party it up! We built this incredible fort and yes, it was a group effort! Even little Ellie was shuttling pillows into the game room! We put our pajamas on and had a pizza party, a dance party and an ice cream party! We listened to Toy Story's "You got a friend in me" at least a dozen times... and it never got old. I could swing those little girls around and dance with them all night long! We played board games and watched movies in our giant fort! They stayed up way past their bedtime, but that's the point of a sleepover! When I was cleaning up dinner, Caroline turned to me and said, "Miss Kaitlyn, you're the greatest babysitter ever." I responded, "Caroline! That's so sweet... thank you!" And Grayson chimed in, "Miss Kaitlyn, I was just about to say that same thing!" That completely made my night. I may do over the top things when I baby-sit and in every other aspect of my life, but that's just me. I had so much fun with my kiddos and I loved my slumber party with the sweet Singleton babies! What a fun and memorable night! <3

Day 363: "Beautiful People"

Tonight Taylor treated me to an early dinner at BJs! We hit up the half price mini pizzas during happy hour and our favorite chips and salsa. You're supposed to be 21 to get the happy hour discounts, but our waitress let it slide by! It was a nice early dinner with one of my best friends! Afterwards, I went to the 2010 PALs Reunion. Every Christmas break the PALs plan a reunion to unite all of the current and previous PAL classes. It was fantastic to see all of my best friends from last year! I have missed all their crazy stories, funny jokes and bright smiling faces! Everyone's lives are completely different now, but it felt like nothing had ever changed. It amazes me how strong the relationships still are that we built in this class last year. It was a great PAL reunion with my favorite "beautiful people"! :)

Day 362: Fifty.

Today was my Dad's 50th birthday! Yesterday, the Engle girl's decorated our entire house like crazy! There were streamers flying from every cabinet, plenty of decorations hanging from the ceiling and signs galore! We had 50 of everything set up all along the counter...

50 Jello shots to keep you young.

50 bucks to AMC movies for your entertainment.

50 kisses from your sweeties.

50 diet cokes to keep you goin'.

50 Starbursts to brighten your day.

50 Band-Aids to heal your basketball wounds.

50 brownies because you are just too sweet!

50 tissues to blow your nose.

50 Snickers 'cause they are your favorite!

50 vitamins to keep you feelin' good!

50 Coors Light to keep your Mountains bright

50 mints to keep your breath fresh.

50 lottery tickets to help you win millions!

50 coasters to help you coast through the next year.

50 cups for your gamin' luck!
Jason and Dad drove 14 hours home from New Mexico in a U-Hall truck last night. Needless to say... they were exhausted and their sleep schedule was shifted! We celebrated my Dad's birthday together as a family at the Lasagna House. He opened up all of his gifts and Shannon's gift to him was very interesting. To everyone's surprise... she set up a scavenger hunt for him (much like mine and Lauren's). It turned out the final gift was a re-gift of the Just Dance Wii video game that my Dad had already given to my Mom for Christmas. She must have found it in the return pile! The things that girl comes up with... hilarious! I can't believe my Dad turned fifty years young today. Happy Birthday Mike Engle! You're the best, "sickest", cheesiest, funniest, most understanding Dad in the whole world! Here's to the next 50... love you SO much!! ♥

Day 361: Reunion

Tonight we had a Summer 2010 Reunion. One night last summer, I hung out with all of these same six kids. At our previous game night, we played Taboo and Sardines. We attempted to recreate that night, but instead it turned into its own unique night! We started with Girls vs. Boys Taboo and the girl's totally dominated... 40-37. Oh yeaahhh! Afterwards, we attempted to play Cranium... but that was a fail. We had a photo shoot, went on an adventure to McDonald's and Wal-Mart, watched Elf and just hung out. It was a very chill and fun night! I LOVED hanging out with Amber... I've missed her so much! I would say it was a great night of recapturing our sweet summer memories, and turning them into our cheesy Christmas break memories! <3

Day 360: Slow Down

Today is Day 360... Which means the year is almost over. It really has flown by! Today at work, I made a Happy New Years sign. I had made one for almost every holiday and this sign will be the last one for this year! It was in the shape of a party hat, even though the cooks thought it was shaped like a tepee! Dad, Jason and Aunt Diane flew to New Mexico to gather all of my uncle's things from his old house. So... after work, we had a girl's party at my house. Ariel came over; we played Apples to Apples with my mom and sisters and had a One Tree Hill marathon. After Taylor got off work, he came and broke up the girl party! Ariel, Taylor and I had fun hanging out, talking and laughing a lot at each other. I love my friends and I'd really love it if 2010 would slow down just a little bit!

Day 359: Jesus' Birthday!

Today was Jesus' birthday! I woke up at 8 am to my Dad blaring Mariah Carey Christmas songs throughout the house. While growing up, Jason, Lauren and I used to wake him up super duper early on Christmas morning. We were just really eager to open our gifts from Santa! He could never understand that. I guess this morning he was trying to get us back for all of those years. We gathered in the family room and individually opened each gift. In the Engle house... if you really like your gift, you raise it above head and shake it! Since Jason is moving to North Carolina next month, his presents were pretty predictable… lots of appliances and necessary things for his new apartment. This year, Lauren and I got Jason a bunch of framed pictures to create a collage on one of his walls. Instead of just giving him the frames to unwrap, we created a scavenger hunt around the house. Each picture had a riddle and here they are....

1. You're moving to N.C...

A scavenger hunt there will be.

Pictures hanging on the wall

Far better than anything from the mall.

Our clues will guide you all over the place,

Your next gift is in a briefcase!

2. "D" for Diploma,

Just be glad you're not going to Oklahoma!

You couldn't have done it without Mom and Dad,

Now look for your newest paper that makes you oh so glad!

3. With all that money from your basket,

You bought something simply fantastic!

It takes pictures when you act a fool.

Don't go looking by the pool!

4. You have 3 sisters that love you all the same,

But your 3 bros are the ones that help you with your game.

Through thick and thin, we'll always be here!

Now don't be like Mom and shed a tear!

Not long ago, you convinced Shan that reindeers drink water by the door.

Go there and you will find more!

5. Cancun 09' was such a fun time, BOOM!

Especially since we had our own kid's room!

You mooned us way too many times,

And the Complain Train was shooting all those limes!

So many good memories out by the pool…

Remember, when you pushed Lauren in her Easter dress... REAL COOL.

6. Remember that one time we took Mom to Blue Bell?

She ate all the ice cream and didn't want us to tell!

VEGAS was a blast, especially Minus 5...

We won't ever forget that crazy cab ride!

We'll miss you SO much when you're far away,

But we hope these pictures will make you SMILE everyday!

I think he loved it almost as much as we loved making it! Thank you Mom & Dad for all the sweet gifts and for always making Christmas so great! This year was special because my Aunt Diane joined our family Christmas festivities! In the afternoon, we all went to the movies to see Little Fockers. It's a tradition to go to the movies on Christmas Day. My Uncle Robin recently moved to Texas and started living in one of the nearby elderly homes. Today he was able to come to the movies with us! This was a unique experience because it was the first time any of the Engle kids have ever spent time with him. Tonight we had a special birthday dinner for Jesus. He was all I wanted and all I needed this Christmas. Thank you, God, for sending your one and only son to carry us out of darkness and bring us into the light. Today a king was born and he was the greatest gift this world has ever received... even though Jason's picture collage was a close second. ;)

Day 358: Unspeakable Joy

 Tonight was Christmas Eve! The entire family went to the 2 pm church service together, as always on this special day. We normally go to later service; however, my dad had to pick up my Aunt Diane and Uncle Robin from the airport. I love Christmas Eve service at River Pointe, because the music is joyful and the lit candles held by all are a simple reminder of the reason for this special season. Jesus was born that man no more may die. That is powerful and worth celebrating! My family and I ate tamales and pasta salad for our Christmas Eve dinner. This was the first time I have ever tried tamales and I loved them! Lauren proposed that we make homemade tamales, but we all laughed. We're not Hispanic... it would have been an epic fail. Instead, we bought them from Berry Hill. I believe we have officially started our newest tradition- Tamales on Christmas. <3 When my aunt arrived, she gave all of the girls matching pajamas. They are light pink flannel dresses with brown bears covering them. She got them from New Mexico and everyone wore them tonight. I can't figure out whether I am supposed to take them seriously, but they definitely make me chuckle! Needless to say, this Christmas we didn't rock our typical Santa PJs! Shannon set out cookies for Santa Clause and the whole gang watched the movie Christmas Vacation together. I am so excited that tomorrow is Jesus' birthday and I am so blessed to be surrounded by the ones I love.

Joy, unspeakable joy

And overflowing where no tongue can tell

Joy, unspeakable joy

Rises in my soul, never lets me go.

Day 357: Bundles of Joy

Today I baked sweets in the kitchen all day long with my girls! We wore our holiday aprons and listened to Christmas music the entire time. Every year we always bake an assortment of goodies for our neighbors and closest friends. Then that same night we deliver our little bundles of joy to their houses! I have to admit... this is one of my favorite holiday traditions! I hope all of my friends and their families enjoy their little dessert assortment! On another note: Around this time of year there is plenty of unhealthy food and treats surrounding you. However (out of the blue), Jason decided to create the Engle Family Biggest Loser Challenge. And it started today. It is a three week challenge and each week there is a new dynamic—

Week 1: Teams

Week 2: Partners

Week 3: Individual

Obviously the goal is to lose weight and motivate each other through competition. He created a Power Point that he presented to the family this afternoon. It was priceless. It had an embarrassing picture of each of us, our start weight, our goal weight, our favorite hobby and a few other things. The only problem was that he chose to start this challenge before Christmas... that is not too promising for me!

Day 356: We R Who We R

Four years ago, Brittany, Anam, Ariel and I went on a girl's night out. And tonight was our reunion! We started with pillow talk in my bedroom and quickly decided to go on a spontaneous adventure! We drove to Town Center, with all of the windows down jamming to Ke$ha's song We R Who We R. I quickly realized that we were all acting like the exact same girls from our night out four years ago; the only difference now was we could drive! We went to Starbucks, walked around TC (like the good ol' days) and went up on the roof. When we were at Starbucks, Ariel bought a banana. Who buys a banana at Starbucks? Once we got to the roof, Ariel decided she didn't want to eat her banana anymore. So we found a spot where there were no people in sight, and we threw the banana off the roof screaming, "Hoes before Bros"! It was an exceptionally memorable moment. After our Town Center adventures, we drove around and looked at Christmas lights. Of course, we were all singing and dancing the entire way! Once we got back to my house, we reminiscenced on all of our middle school memories/lingo and laughed about the current Austin High School drama. We may be 18 years old, but we're allowed to act like we're in middle school sometimes. Tonight I was rolling on the floor laughing. What a fantastic reunion with my girls!!!

Day 355: COD

This past weekend I took way too many pictures, so if you haven't already noticed... I have been avoiding my camera. I am a little burnt out of pictures at the moment. There is something I will never understand- boys and their video games. On Sunday, Jason bought an Xbox360 with his graduation money. He has been playing Call of Duty: Black Ops ever since. To me, it is a bunch of nonsense. He acts like a twelve year old boy when it comes to things like this, even though the real twelve year old boys can actually beat him! All of his friends from college always play with him and they talk to each other via the headset. Tonight when Taylor came over, he and my brother played COD together. I don't understand it, nor do I really want to. It amazes me how many countless hours boys will spend sitting in front of the television set playing this. I like a few select video games, but I will never ever find any value in the stereotypical violent ones!

Day 354: Shopping

Today I decided to start my Christmas shopping. Last minute? Yes! Immediately after I woke up this morning, I went out into the madness with my mom and sisters. We went to two completely different shopping centers and I knocked off three people from my shopping list! I still have a lot more gifts to find. This afternoon, I went with my mom and brother to see How Do You Know- which is the new movie with Reese Witherspoon and Owen Wilson. This smart romantic comedy was just alright in my book. At points it had me literally laughing out loud, but other times it was very slow and boring. Tonight KK came over and hung out with the family. I <3 Christmas Break!

Day 353: The Book

My Project 365 Blog is quickly coming to a close, which is very sad for me. However, all year I have been planning to make my project into a book- a bounded, hard cover, digitally made scrapbook. I had strict requirements...

1. I had to be able to custom design each page, day by day.

2. The book had to hold 365+ pages.

3. I had to be able to order it from an online printing and bounding company.

Today I started my specific search. I went to Best Buy, seeking a scrapbook design program that could transfer my work into a book. No such luck. You had to print each and every page from your own printer and that's not happening at this household. Tonight I finally discovered a free online program called Book Smart! When I downloaded the software, it transferred every single blog entry (with the picture, text and date) from January 1, 2010 onto its own individual page. Now I have started the process of formatting, editing and decorating each day for this year. It's going to take forever, but it will be well worth it! Kaitlyn's Project 365 in book form- I can't wait!

Day 352: Graduation Station!

Today the Engle's hosted Jason's graduation party! Mom had us working like busy little bees all day long. We helped her cook a ton of food, ran errands around town, decorated the house and much much more! There were so many little details that went into planning this party. When the Engle's have a party... they go all out! Katy came over and helped us out beforehand- which was much appreciated! The party was a success. There were a ton of my parents' friends here, a couple of my friends, and a lot of Jason's friends from college! A very diverse group of people and at times it was a bit awkward, but for the most part it was a lot of fun! Most of the younger crowd hung out outside on the patio, playing games and socializing! Katy, Brittany and A TON of college kids spent the night at our house. It was one gigantic slumber party with pillow talk into the wee hours of the morning! I hope Jason enjoyed celebrating his huge accomplishment- we're so proud of you!!!

Graduation Station... it's GO time!

Day 351: D for Diploma!

Today Jason graduated from Texas A&M University with a baccalaureate degree in Industrial Engineering. He worked his butt off for the past 4.5 years and can genuinely say he was shocked that he graduated as soon as he did. After my Calculus exam this morning, Lauren and I headed up to College Station. We sat through a three hour long graduation ceremony, which was incredibly boring! The family brought signs, whistles, and glow sticks... oh yeah, we went all out! After Jason finally walked across the stage and they announced the other 1,499 graduating students, we celebrated with dinner at Carino's! Today seemed very symbolic in the Engle family. Jason completed his final chapter at Texas A&M in his cap and gown and I am about to begin my journey as an Aggie! I am so proud of all that he has accomplished and I know he will continue to be a bright, comical, optimistic, and selfless man in the future! Jason, you are the best big brother that a girl could ask for and I am so thankful to have you in my life. You have impacted me more than you will ever realize. You are my role model, my best friend, and my cuddle buddy/recovery buddy! I admire the man that you have become and I know you will do great things in the future. I love you SO much! Congratulations!!!



Day 350: Colonial.

Today was Colonial Day for Shannon, which explains her adorable/interesting wardrobe choice! I got off to an early start this morning and I was a tad bit frazzled going into my Economics and English exams! They were both incredibly long and time consuming. Once my finals were complete, I went to Pei Wei with Katy, Brittany and Anam. It was a sweet girl's day lunch with my best friends! Brittany got us each a ring for Christmas. They all match and symbolize love, loyalty and friendship. It SO thoughtful and SO sweet of her! Thank you, Brittany!! I spent the rest of the afternoon studying for my Calculus exam and got easily distracted by Lauren. My Aunt Diane came into town today from California for my brother's graduation (which is tomorrow). It was so good to see her!  I wish I could have spent more time tonight chatting with her and the rest of the family at dinner, but I had to study! :( And finally... today was Ariel Coombs 18th Birthday! So Happy Happy Birthday!

This is what finals do to us...

Day 349: Lalala

Today we took our 2nd and 4th period exams. I had Aquatic Science and PALs... real tough day for me! Well that's a joke. I finished the 150 question final in 20 minutes for aquatic science- it was the easiest thing in my whole life. In PALs we had our final Secret Santa gift exchange and white elephant trade off! Calena and I had each other for Secret Santa and she gave me a Chick-fil-a gift card. It was perfect!! And as for the white elephant gift exchange, I got a light bulb. Yes, a light bulb. That is definitely a white elephant gift for ya! Jiji George, a former PAL, came to visit our Christmas party! It completely made my day to see her bright cheery face!! When I got home from school, Lauren kept distracting me by posting insane videos on my Facebook wall. So I spent the rest of the day studying for my other finals at Barnes and Nobles and working at 9ers! Lalala... I can't wait for Christmas break!!!

Day 348: Final For Sale

This week is finals week... so everyone is completing their reviews and attempting to study despite all of the distractions. I always create elaborate study guides and learn by making them. This semester Economics has been no different. Even though Byrd's final exam review had 240 questions... I was still going to do it. Now here goes my great story from today! I was sitting in class, with a very congested and runny nose, working tediously from bell to bell on my review. When we were released to go to our 4th period class, a boy walked awkwardly up next to me. He hesitantly began to talk about the economics exam and continued to ask me what grade I had in the class. I told him I had a 97 (that should have been red flag #1) and then he asked me if I had started the review yet.  I told him that I was almost finished with the whole thing. Then a light bulb flashed into my mind and I thought this mysterious tall  Hispanic boy wants to buy a copy of my review from me. Then he slightly whispered, "Economics final copy..." I gave him a very confused look and he repeated himself, "I have a copy of the economics final exam, do you want…?" I quickly interrupted him and exclaimed, "I am NOT interested!" I wish I had a picture of my facial expression. You would've thought this kid just asked me to buy drugs from him or something! I have never talked to him before in my life and I still don't know his name. Obviously this homeboy had no clue that I am the very last person you should ever ask if you want to sell something sketchy. From the beginning of the conversation I told him my grade, which should have been a huge flag that this girl doesn't need any help. I am still shocked that out of everyone in the class, he asked me (the girl that always actively participates in class discussions and answers questions) to buy a copy of the final exam. I bet he was on drugs- no one in their right mind would've asked me! I wouldn’t ever be a snitch, but at least it gave me a memorable story. He clearly doesn't know me too well!

Day 347: Tacky.

FCA Christmas Party 2010!

Tonight we had our FCA Christmas Party! We started out with an improv skit about the story of Jesus' birth, which led us into our Tacky Sweater Contest. Ben Woods and Taylor Cobb were our top two finalists. Ben won with his hot pink and red, skin tight disaster sweater, but Taylor was a close 2nd with his big kitty cat sweater. We had a Chubby Bunny contest- which is a competition to see who can stuff the most marshmallows into their mouth while saying, 'Chubby Bunny'! Almost everyone participated in our Fruit Cake Relays and the Santa Sleigh Ride Race. The sleigh ride game was played like pony express, only one person (Santa) was sitting on a scooter and the other person (the reindeer) was pulling them by a thick black stretchy jump rope! The goal was to catch the other team’s sleigh! This game was highly dangerous, extremely competitive and a complete hit.... EVERYONE loved it! Whether you were riding, watching or pulling-- everyone was dying laughing! Three girls sang a Christmas melody for the group and we took many pictures for the yearbook! This FCA Christmas party was unlike any from years past; however, it was by far the most fun!!! I think everyone had a blast and I’ll never forget when Coach Cataline wiped out on the ‘sleigh ride’ at the FCA Christmas party!

Day 346: Peace.

"I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid." John 14:27


This morning at River Pointe Church, the Austin Drum Line performed and Patrick Kelley preached about Our Christmas Story from God's perspective. He explained how God came to be a hiding place for us, to be our very best friend, and most importantly to be our personal Prince of Peace. We often misunderstand the gift of peace that Christ brought to us. He is the only thing that can truly satisfy and fulfill our heart's deepest desires. This holiday season I am seeking peace with my Creator, peace with myself and peace with others. We don't have to be perfect in order to gain God's love, nor will our actions ever grant us peace. But we must be willing to show grace and forgiveness to those who have harmed us. Christ is our peace—believe and trust that this Christmas season.


"Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:7

Day 345: December.

Tonight we had our annual PALs Christmas Dinner. It was potluck style and we all dressed up in our spiffy holiday attire! Melinda hosted the dinner at her house and I had a ton of fun socializing with my good ol' pals. However, I could only stay for 45 minutes because I already made a commitment to babysit tonight! I raced straight from the PALs dinner to the Singleton's house in my boots and all! I always have so much fun watching the Singleton kiddos. Tonight the girls and I painted pictures, ate yummy Christmas treats, and played lots of other games. Grayson preferred to watch his Indiana Jones movies and then act them out! He was making me laugh! The kids and I always lose track of time and I never put them to bed at a decent hour.... I am a terrible babysitter! On the plus side.... at least they will hopefully sleep in for their parents! Between Christmas shopping, working at 9ers, the PALs dinner and babysitting... December is a VERY busy month!

Day 344: The Ride

Tonight I volunteered with Taylor, Ariel and Katelyn for the ProGrad Hayrides in Pecan Grove. In addition to the hayrides, they had face painting, hot chocolate, a 'live band’, and Ariel's Dad dressed up as Santa! We all worked at the concession stand, which was easy and fun. Later on, Taylor and I become trailer attendants. That was the best job because all we had to do was ride in the bed of the truck, look at Christmas lights and made sure no one fell off of the trailer. Afterwards, we went on a hayride with the rest of the volunteers. We took multiple pictures while admiring the houses; however, Taylor wouldn’t stop making stupid facial expressions... so those pictures were a fail. After we finished volunteering, Taylor and I made a late night Taco Bell run and watched Toy Story 3. I chose to drive us to the hayrides, so I also had to drive him home after the movie ended. I dropped him off and slightly rolled through a stop sign as I reentered New Territory. The next thing I heard was cop sirens and I saw the constable's flashy lights in my rear view mirror. This was the first time in my entire life that I ever got pulled over for anything. I expected to be more emotional and start sobbing, but I was very calm, honest and polite. In return the constable was sweet and he issued me a "gentle reminder to drive safely in the future". I was very relieved and thankful for his undeserved kindness!

Day 343: Orchestra

Tonight was the December H.O.T. Hangout. We all went to Chili's at 5:30pm, followed by the Orchestra Concert. This picture is the perfect description of my experience at the Winter Orchestra Concert. These three boys and I sat together at Chili's and we attempted to take a group picture. However, it proved to be more challenging than I expected. Last year, the concert was upbeat, the whole audience was rockin', and we could take pictures with Santa Clause. This year the talent in the orchestra remained the same; however, they played much slower Christmas jingles and there was no Santa in sight. Between the annoying chatter surrounding me and the slow songs, I was extremely tired and ready to go home.

My conclusion of tonight... 2009 Orchestra Concert > 2010 Orchestra Concert.

This is my improv paint project from Oyster Creek today. No paint brushes... just a couple bottles of glitter, a limited paint selection and an eager little PAL!

Day 342: Said is Dead

Today in Mrs. Sebesta's fourth grade class, we had a funeral for the word 'Said'. The day was called 'Said is Dead' and all of the students wore black to mourn the loss of this word that they use way too often. They even wrote a goodbye letter! We all stood around its ‘grave site’ holding hands and singing songs. "Ding dong the word is dead. Said is dead. Said is dead. Ding ding the wicked said is dead!"
 I thought it was quite hilarious and the best teaching lesson I have ever seen! So now that 'said' is officially dead, my little munchkins are one step closer to becoming better writers!
This afternoon, Taylor and I went for a jog in the freezing outdoors. I am not going to lie, for me running is tough and the cold air made it even tougher. After we finally finished our two mile non-stop journey, we played basketball in my driveway. It reminded me of my middle schools days on the basketball team... only I was much better back then! We played the classics- H.O.R.S.E and Around the World. After we did some grocery shopping for my mom, I went to babysit the Singleton's! These babies are by far the sweetest and I am so thankful I am their babysitter! 

Day 341: Fact.

FACT: If you are a Senior in high school, then you feel like your time spent at school is a waste and you have a ton of free time at home.

All of my life my schedule has been very busy, so it is natural for me to fill my planner with some productive alternatives. This year I am usually student teaching, babysitting, participating in clubs/organizations at school, socializing or working at 9ers. This afternoon, I got a voicemail that my 4th graders were participating in the spelling bee and I didn't need to come in.

If free time presents itself, I usually pick from three options...

1. Homework

2. Workout

3. Nap

Nap always wins.

P.S. The coolest person in the world, Mark Agatep, visited me at 9ers today! Along with Melinda, Cale & Victoria. They all came unexpectedly at different times! Woo... I LOVE visitors! :)

Day 340: Malin's Mansion

Today was the NHS Holiday Social. After our normal meeting routine, we had a gingerbread house making contest! I worked with Brittany and three other girls from my Psychology class last year. Our house was named Malin's Mansion and everything symbolized things from our class. We had good news, the bad day rock, lost students and Ms. Malin's infamous smile! It wasn't perfect in the judge’s eyes, so we didn't win any of the three awards. However, we had a ton of fun remembering all of our memories from last spring! After the social, I grabbed some dinner with Taylor and went to the Holiday Choir Concert. I love love love Christmas music and tonight was no exception. Although, sitting next to Taylor and Brandon was like sitting next to two 12 year old boys. They added multiple comments during every song, occasionally pinched me and made annoying whistle sounds. But other than that... the concert was great and everyone sounded incredible!

Day 339: "B" Sweet

I love the month of December for many reasons, but mainly because I bake so many sweets for the people around me! Today I made two batches of puppy chow; which is simply Chex cereal covered with chocolate, peanut butter and lots of powdered sugar! I made it for my friends at lunch; my Secret Santa in PALs and the rest was boxed up for a few families! We are officially starting "B" Sweet tomorrow at school. This is a completely random thing my girlfriends and I decided to do at lunch for the rest of the month of December. This is how it works... everyday starting tomorrow a different girl will bring a dessert. There are only six lunches of the semester left, so we each signed up for a day and tomorrow is mine! I packaged up little goody bags of puppy chow for everyone and of course we share our desserts with the boys who don't participate in the baking! This is a fun way for us all to get in the Christmas spirit, share sweets at lunch and sneak in a few unnecessary calories every day! I don't know about the rest of the world, but I am usually in an exceptionally good mood during the holiday season.  I wish I could put up some of my Christmas spirit in a jar and open a little bit of it each month of the year!!

Day 338: Odd.

Tonight was Crysta Sheridan's surprise 18th birthday party. I have never seen anyone more surprised in my entire life! There was a great turn out of people and plenty of tasty food. There were definitely people from all different friend circles, but I enjoyed talking to a ton of people that I wouldn't normally get the chance to talk to. We played a game called Fish Pond and Katy & I won! I couldn't believe it. It is similar to taboo and charades, so I didn't anticipate a victory. I'll never forget when I said, "You like it hot and _______." Without hesitation, Katy exclaimed... "SPICY!" Oh KK! :) After the party, Katy, Dylan, Kaitlyn Brooks, Taylor Woods, and I attempted to go to the movies.  After purchasing our tickets, we found out that Kaitlyn wasn't allowed in the theatre since she is only sixteen years old. **The semi-new rule at the theatre is that you have to be 17+ years old after 9:30 pm. ** It was totally dumb. We went to Teahouse & Coffee and drank tapioca balls. It was an extremely weird first time experience, and I can't say that I enjoyed my Ice Cream Coffee. They wanted me to be a rebel for once... so I ding dong ditched someone's house. Then they thought it would be fun to wrap someone's house. We went to CVS to get the toilet paper and then we agreed that we shouldn’t do it tonight. We put on silly Christmas hats, took pictures and ran around instead. Finally, we went to KK's house and relaxed on the couch. I had so much fun tonight socializing at Crysta's birthday party and playing the 5th wheel on this strange excursion. Being the odd numbered wheel stinks, I am not going to lie. However, if I had to be the 5th wheel for anyone... it would be for these crazy kids!

Day 337: Aggie

I will officially be a part of the fightin' Texas Aggie Class of 2015! I made this decision last Sunday, but if we're being honest... I've always known I would end up in College Station. When I was a freshman in high school, I saw a sign in Coach Plemon's room that said, "The best teachers in the world come from A&M." At the time I remember thinking to myself... Well if I want to be the best, I'd better go there! Today I went to visit Texas A&M and Jason before he graduates! On the drive there, I went a little bit too far down I-10 and needless to say... I was lost. But thanks to the map quest on my iPhone, I made it there by driving through plenty of small rundown towns and bumpy back roads. Once I finally arrived, Jason, Scott and I went to lunch at Which Wich on campus. Afterwards, we headed to Rudder for my two official tours. Scott & Jason decided that they would be better tour guides... so we ditched the tour group. They are hilarious and very entertaining, but I desperately needed a girl's perspective! Michelle, Scott's girlfriend, came along and gave me the real tour. She used to be a tour guide on campus, so she knew all of the traditional stories and neat places to show me. Michelle is such a sweet girl and I am so thankful she came along for our afternoon tour of campus! Then, we went to the Rec Center. Jason and his friends play basketball every Friday afternoon, so I just worked out and wandered while I waited. It was super crowded, but it was fun nonetheless! Jason and I went to the A&M gift shop and I bought an official car decal. It is glitzy, girly and perfect for my car. I love it! Tonight, we headed to downtown Bryan for First Friday. First Friday is a promotional event to get the A&M students to come into downtown Bryan for dinner and live music each month. We ate at Casa Rodriguez, which is their favorite Mexican restaurant. You know how when you sit down at a restaurant for dinner and the table to your left leaves half their plates and you "joke" about eating it because you’re so hungry? Ya, about that... These boys were crazy! I got a really good feel for living arrangements and life at A&M for next fall! I am so thankful Jason, Scott and Michelle sacrificed their Friday for the newest fightin' Texas Aggie! :)

Day 336: Sugar Land.

After I got off work tonight, Shannon and I went to the Christmas Tree Lighting in Town Center. This place was swamped with people! We arrived relatively late, but we still enjoyed walking around to all of the tents. They had face painting station, a poppin' dance party, plenty of food/desserts for sale, a blow up snow globe, and much more! Santa and all of his elves were even there! In fact, Santa is the one who lit the Christmas tree. On his way down to the stage, he was repelling off of the Minute Maid building and got his beard caught in the rope. He was stuck up there, with the spotlight on him, for a solid 15 minutes. I was embarrassed for the jolly ol’ man! Everyone counted down from 10, and then the Sugar Land Christmas Tree was lit! This event seemed to be a HUGE success for our city. My family moved to Sugar Land in 1993 and everything has changed since then! It has evolved into a very populated, highly developed and constantly growing city! In fact, they are in the process of building a minor league baseball stadium a few minutes from my house. They named our team the Sugar Land Skeeters. I don't really get the name... but it seems like Sugar Land is going big time!

Day 335: Pro-Grad Prep!

Happy 1st of December!

Tonight we had our December Pro-Grad Meeting. Pro-Grad stands for Project Graduation and it is a huge event held the night of graduation. Seniors raise money through various fundraisers during the year... such as Holiday Poinsettia/Tamale Sales, Holiday Hayrides, Car Washes, a Dinner & Silent Auction, etc. You earn 'Bulldog Bucks' for each hour that you volunteer. Those bucks can be spent at the event in hopes of winning some neat prizes for college. This event takes so much parent coordination and involvement... and it is definitely a work in progress. My Mom is earning me some bulldog bucks by taking attendance at the meetings and my Dad is going to earn some bucks for me by driving his truck at the hayrides. He doesn't know that yet... so SURPRISE Dad! ;) My parents are the greatest... I love them and their involvement in my life! However, the meetings are probably the most boring thing to sit through and I never win the raffle. I just doodle on my paper and Taylor makes fun of me. Woo … Pro-Grad!

Day 334: Unexpected Joys

Merry Christmas from 9ers Grill! This is the new decoration that I made for December that hangs below the menu. What is 9ers going to do when I am gone? Their little elementary teacher at heart won’t always be behind the counter to make all of their creative projects!! Today I did a whole lot of working- from school work, to student teaching work, to 9ers work, to stupid Macbeth homework... I don't really want to do blog work. Even though my days are ridiculously busy... they are usually pretty eventful! Jason got an incredible job offer today! It was his number one choice and although it will move him out of Texas... I couldn't be more proud of my CB!!! Tomorrow will mark the start of the last month of my Project 365. I have a feeling December will be extremely bittersweet for me. I know I have thirty one great days ahead of me- filled with happiness and plenty of unforgettable memories.

"May your life be crowded with unexpected joys."

Day 333: Grace

There is no guilt here

There is no shame

No pointing fingers

There is no blame

What happened yesterday…has disappeared

The dirt has washed away

And now it's clear

There's only grace

There's only love

There's only mercy and believe me it's enough.

Day 332: Extra Credit

Today I made a Renaissance Festival scrapbook for my English group. We were assigned to make a single scrapbook page for extra credit. However, if you know me... I always go above and beyond no matter what the assignment is. Most people wouldn't be able to fill eight pages with pictures from ONE event... but that's exactly what I did. I had so much fun at the Renaissance Festival with my friends and I enjoyed reflecting back on all of our priceless memories. One of the pages was for our people watching endeavors. It has pictures of all kinds of creatures/people that we came across. Great entertainment really is found in people watching. Another page was of our experiences at the Free Fortune Teller. I wrote a part of everyone’s specific fortune and that brought back a ton of emotions. I made a page dedicated to the Clan Tynker Show, the Jousting Show, the Drench-a-Wench and many more adventures. However, my favorite page is the friendship page. It says, "Friends find the sweetest sense of happiness comes from simply being together." I will always cherish the day we spent together at the Renaissance Festival and I am thankful I have a book that captured all of our memories!

Day 331: The Engle's

Today we took our traditional family Christmas picture. Each year all of the girls go shopping and find color coordinating outfits- in preparation for this picture. This tradition has been taking place for many years now, and quite frankly... we're running out of color choices. This year we decided to do earth tones (browns, beiges, etc.). All of the Engle's and our handy-dandy tripod headed out to old Richmond for some rustic pictures. I love my family and even though it is stressful at times- I love taking family Christmas pictures! Then again, I am a picture freak! After our tripod photo shoot, we all went to dinner together. Lauren was scrolling through the pictures on my camera and hollered, "Man, our family is good looking!" My Dad replied, "....except for one!" And Shannon chimed in, "Sorry..." It was absolutely priceless. That girl is too stinkin' cute & funny. The Engle’s are exceptionally loud, they laugh almost as much as they speak, and they have a lot of fun with each other... and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

"Having a sister is like having a best friend you can't get rid of. You know whatever you do, they'll still be there."