Friday, December 24, 2010

Decisions, decisions

As the new year approaches, it is always a time for reflection.
We ponder how this next year is going to be our year and how we are going to lay off the chocolate and hit the gym....for real!

That being said, I have a sneaky feeling as if there are some major decisions that have the power to alter my current path in life. They just take a leap of faith.

Sometimes, I'm a little scared to take that leap and go down those unmarked paths. 

Help!


Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Life Lessons

I would like to share a list I found on my friend Greg B's blog.
This was written by 90 year old lady, Regina Brett.
It was exactly what I needed to read and maybe it will be for you too.

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.

3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

5. Pay off your credit cards every month.

6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.

8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.

9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.

10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.

11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.

13. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.

15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.

16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.

17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.

18. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.

19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.

20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.

21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

22. Over-prepare, then go with the flow.

23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.

24. The most important sex organ is the brain.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

27. Always choose life.

28. Forgive everyone everything.

29. What other people think of you is none of your business.

30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

33. Believe in miracles.

34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.

35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.

36. Growing old beats the alternative - dying young.

37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.

38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.

39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.

40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.

41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.

42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.

44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

45. The best is yet to come.

46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.

48. If you don't ask, you don't get.

49. Yield.

50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift. 



How do I act so well...

Last night, I went to a casting workshop for this big project the LDS church is working on about the New Testament. 

I expected it to be all spiritual. You know, warm and fuzzy feeling about auditions and acting.

To my pleasant surprise, they shared this awesome clip from the British TV show Extras. A far cry from what I was expecting.

Sir Ian offered those of us in attendance some amazing acting advice.
Hopefully, I can channel my best Ian McKellen in my audition.



Monday, December 13, 2010

Jolly Jingles

I have a friend that emails Christmas songs everyday in December.
Although I'm not the best at listening to them the day he sends them,
I've been listening to past songs while at work today and wanted to share a few of my favorites with you.

They put me in a sentimental mood and maybe they will do the same for you.







This rendition of Silent Night is especially fantastic.

Refreshed


 As this Sunday (technically Monday) is coming to a close,
I am feeling grateful for the company of great friends.
Amazing what a little food, some Martinelli's and a good old fashioned sing-a-long will do for the soul. 

Thanks to Jared for playing host. 
Love you all!


Sunday, December 12, 2010

Baby it's cold outside

Here in Utah, it doesn't really feel like Christmas until you 
trek out among the hoards to Temple Square to see the lights. 

Every year I am initially a little "bah humbug" about going because
1.) it's cold
2.) we went last year
3.) it's cold
4.) there are so many peole
5.) it's cold
But every time I drag myself along, I end up loving it.
It's gorgeous and gets me in the festive mood. 
Here is a sampling of this year's trek.






One of my favorite moments of this year's visit was the guy that
totally crop dusted (aka gassed) and owned up to it
because he felt like he couldn't lie since the temple was right there.

That is one scent I could have done without this season.

Oh, and for your information, it was cold and slightly wet, but still a good time.



Saturday, December 11, 2010

Daniel vs. Harry

So, I am mildly obsessed with Harry Potter.
(stop judging me)

While surfing the web I came across this gem.
It solidified my love of Harry and Daniel Radcliffe.


Year End Letters

This song expresses my sentiments precisely 
about MOST year end letters.

Please to enjoy!

Song of awesomeness 

Oh, and check you mailbox for my Christmas letter......

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Builders without Borders

It's time for me to make a plea for your money, again.

This year after Christmas, I am participating with a charity group 
to build houses for those in need in Mexico.

The group I am going with is Builders without Borders.
They are an outstanding charity group that doesn't take any overhead from donations they receive.
100% of the money donated goes straight to our projects.

This is where you come in.

If you would like to donate you can do so in any amount.
Just $10 provides a family of four food for a WEEK!
Also, donations help pay for the building materials we use for the homes.

You can donation via check or cash.

For checks, make them out to, Builders without Borders and mail them to me at:

Rachel Woodward
c/o Hale Center Theater Orem
225 West 400 North 
Orem, UT 84057

OR

You can find me in person to make a cash donation.

You can also donate clothing, hygiene supplies, cookware, etc. 
The local women share cooking supplies, because they are so limited.
It is such a great cause and will help put you in the Christmas spirit!

Oy vay!

Never go see this movie:



UNLESS

you want a good laugh.

The performances aren't heinous, but boy, the script sure is.
I was hoping it would be one of those

 "It's so bad, it's good" movies.

No such luck. 

Believe me!

Stay far, far away....
*UPDATE*

So maybe this movie was nominated for a Golden Globe in the category of:

BEST PICTURE COMEDY OR MUSICAL

WTF?!?!
How did this happen?
It was totally panned by critics and audiences don't even like it. 
Somebody must be shelling out some serious cash. 
 

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Wordless Wednesday: New Friends


You caught me!


I am a horrible blogger.

There, I've said it.

As part of this admission, I vow to do better.  

Thank you for letting me get that off my chest. 

 

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Steam Punk

So, I had no idea there was such a think as Steam Punk until Sunday.
It's kind of Victorian Era + Fantasy + Steam Energy + Rocker = Steam Punk.
My friend asked me if I would do a photo shoot for her in this style.
Here a just a few of the pics. 




I had never done anything like this, so it was fun to play dress up
and be a little on the angry angsty side. 
I also took a little photo myself. 
I think it is the best one.
What do you think?

Lake Tahoe Part 1

For those of you who have never been to Lake Tahoe
I heartily recommend that you do. 
It is GORGEOUS!
Here is proof: 

This is at Sand Harbor. 


The  entire lake is surrounded by huge granite rocks
and beautiful pine trees. 
The water is ice cold, but it's still fun to play in.
We went snorkeling, tubing, and wakeboarding. 
 
Mr. Greg catching some sweet air

Unfortunately, we didn't get any pictures of me wakeboarding,
but believe me, it happened. 
It may have not been for very long, but it happened. 
I wasn't sure what to do once I got up so I would just let go of the rope.
It freaked me out a bit, OK!!!
I had promised Mr. Greg I would try and try I did.

I prefer the beach.


I was rewarded with a hug and an Oreo shake from the delicious Char Pit.

Monday, September 13, 2010

Since I've been gone

Here is a little taste of what has been going on in 
 the life of Rachie the past two months.

Remember.....

Wasatch Back? Well, I didn't take pictures of actually running, 
but I did get some awesome ones of us going crazy in the car.
Enjoy a selection:

Notice the crazed droll coming from Mr. Greg


more boredom 

 
 A baby tooth out of a Cheez-It

"I can't take it anymore!!!"

half of our team at the starting line

I wasn't able to finish all of my 21 miles due to a injured I.T. band. 
I was pretty bummed, but there is always next year. 

Remember.....

110 in the Shade? Again, I didn't really take lots of pictures, 
but that doesn't mean I didn't love it.
Awesome show, awesome people, awesome time.

 
This is Lita and she is tiny.

This is Korianne and she is the bomb.com

This is Hailey and she left us to NYC, but we still love her.


This is Laurel and she is the silliest.

 
This is Natalie and she is the most stylish.

 This is me with Mr. Marvin Payne and he is the coolest cat in town
(and my crush).


This is me in a Swenson sandwich. Oh, boy!


And this is me with THE Audra McDonald.
Why, oh, why do I have awesome after-wig hair.....


After 110 I took a nice break from life and went to
Lake Tahoe. Stay tuned.... 

Wednesday, June 16, 2010

Monday, June 14, 2010

110 in the Parade


This past Saturday our cast put on our shiny new costumes
 and shiny new shoes to hoof it in the Orem Summerfest Parade 
 the gang

The theater had this sweet 1940's Ford truck to accompany us 
and blast out our music for us to dance along to.
Me hoping to drive it and the boys setting up the sound system

It was nice to have said truck when we got a little tired from polking
Dancin' a Hoedown

To hop up and hitch a ride and rest aching feet. 
pleased to rest my blistering feet   

By the end some still looked fresh
aren't they precious?
 
But I looked like this:
 get me out of these shoes!

Although our little hooves hurt, it was a blast to be with friends
and promote our awesome show.
And the weather even cooperated with us. 
Then it was off to watch the fireworks.
It was perfect.
I love me some summer!
 

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Top 10: Reasons I Love Summer


1. No more snow!
2. BBQs
3. 4th of July
4. Fireworks
5. Stargazing 
6. Popsicles/Ice Cream
7. Camping
8. Flip-flops
9. Sipping a cool drink by the pool
10. Anything outside

Here's to Summer of Rachel!


Thursday, June 3, 2010

12-Step


Lately, I have had some major addictions. 

Any advice on how to ween myself from the following:

Taco Bell Chalupas
(I want one everyday, anytime)
Riesen Chocolate Chews
My Red Toms 
(I plan my outfits around these shoes)
Amazing Corn Snack 
(Try this! You can find it in bulk at Good Earth)
Real Housewives of (insert major city)
Blue Bunny Neapolitan Ice Cream Sandwiches
Chex Mix
Homemade Wheat Bread
(made with my new Bosch!)
My bed

You guys, I am supposed to be training for a race!

HELP!

Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Somethings....


I have never understood. 
Like:

Why is it trendy to take pictures on train tracks?
 Is it the hangout spot of your family?
Do you frequently let your children play on said tracks 
and therefore want to capture them in their play environment?
Are you wishing a train will come by so you don't have to be a parent anymore? 
Do you have reasons for being one of these offenders?
Really....humor me. 
I'm curious to know the logic behind the trend.
Don't get me wrong, the pictures look pretty cool.
And I'm all for a sweet pic of a train track like this:


But sticking kids, your family, or even worse,
yourself (for engagements) in this picture.....is odd.
It's not natural, people.
Find a new trend.
And not the couch in the middle of a field one.....

Monday, May 31, 2010

Adapt and Overcome


 I have never been inspired by big celebrities,
(Although they are fascinating....)
 It has always been from the "everyday" people around me.

My friends are continually an inspiration to me.   
They are the most talented and the most awesome beings on this earth. 
(And will prolly be big celebs too.)
I challenged you to find cooler people than the people I know.

 My siblings are the strongest people around 
and I am blessed to have them as family.
 They have taken life's hardships and made the trials work for them.
Maybe someday I'll share their journeys with you,
but take my word for it, they are bomb.com. 

These people (and The Biggest Loser) have taught me some important lessons:
Everyone has the power to change.

Everyone has the ability to take the hand they are dealt
and make the life they want out of it. 

My heart is full of gratitude for the people around me.
 Thank you for making my life amazing! 


Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

HELP!




All 2 of you that read my new blog, I need your help.

You may or may not know that I am running in the Wasatch Back Relay Race  race this June

and that I have for the past two years.

Well, this year my team is running in the name of cancer research!

We have a goal to raise $5,000 by the start of the race.

Time is ticking away and the race is quickly approaching on June 18th.

All of our donations have to be in by June 10th.

Anything you can give would be greatly appreciated. 


Peace n' blessin's


Wasatch Back Team 2008