Playing Old Songs Like Memories

Ever listen to a song that you used to obsess over and find yourself obsessed again? That's me. One moment I'm, "Hmm... I used to love this song. Let's see if I still do." Next moment, I'm playing air-violin (I have a real one, but why bring it out if I can't play that song on it?) and screaming out-of-tune "I don't need a wallow fa-a-a-a-a-ace. I just need a pla-a-a-a-a-a-ace. I can call a name my own. My anywhere place. My anywhere place..."

So, wanna hear some memories? And just a note: Womens' Music week is next week! The artists so far: Ellie Swisher, He Is We, Katie Costello, Yael Naim, Deas Vail, Megan and Liz, Kiersten Holine, and more or less. It'll be epic. But for now, it's time for some oldies (well, kinda. When I say old, I mean like, as recent as a month ago, haha. Remember, I'm thirteen).

I think this is on the playlist. This was one of my first Deas Vail songs and it remains one of my favorites.

I used to be obsessed with this song. I've got it learned without chords on piano now, and you can check out my lyrics for it.

"Stranger" was my first Katie Costello song, which ultimately lead to the song I was singing above (you'll find out what it was soon). Check out the lyrics.

I love "Anywhere Place" so long. It inspires me to keep making music every time I hear it.

Yael Naim's voice is just amazing--- most of us starting hearing her after loving her hit "New Soul" from all those Apple commercials. Now we love her for her less popular music. You can see the lyrics for this, too.

Many of us first heard this song on a JCPenney commercial for last year's back-to-school sales. Now, I continue listening for a little pick-me-up.

This song is so haunted. I love Evanescence, but this song is probably my favorite over all the others I've heard.

This song brings me back to my human video days... but since I don't wanna cry (RainyMood.Com and "Why" don't mix), I'm changing songs pronto.

Ever heard a song on YouTube and you're jamming to it... and then suddenly you realize you've owned the song for years? That feeling totally describes this song for me. I didn't realize I'd owned the song for over ten years until my parents were playing it. I was one happy chick--- saved me a dollar!

Remember when I was obsessed with this song last year? It happens to be one of my favorite lyric posts.

When I first became a fan of Relient K, this was my song. I have the lyrics written on my HHYMCA gymnastics shirt.

I still love this song. I love Megan and Liz, just don't think I'll say that in public.

I used to love this song so much--- still do! VersaEmerge is one of my favorite mainstream bands ever! I wanna be like Sierra one day!

Everyone loved this song at one point in their life. It's one of those songs that all you remember is screaming "everything everything will be alright alright!" but you never really looked it up. For me, I've known the song since I was like, three, and it's followed me my whole life.

Who doesn't like this song? It is seriously the only 30 Seconds to Mars song that I know, and I am in love with everything about it (except for the crowd. Good thing this version cuts out all that crap).

"Let mercy come and wash away WHAT I'VE DONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" This song never gets old. It just doesn't.

This song has been an inspiration for over three years now. Kris Allen was (or is) the worship pastor at a friend's uncle's church, so of course I was happy when he won American Idol. I know he didn't write this song, but it's still very inspiring.

I remember when this song first came out and I was freaking out because I knew it was time for a new album! Then I got an autographed poster. And the CD. And a wristband. And there's an obsession.

I would link to my lyric post, but the lyrics are kindsa right there, so...

This reminds me of the Yellowcard lyric, "My worst pains are words I cannot say."

Who doesn't love this Joe Nichols song?

"There is life in the desert."

This song has suddenly become super popular since it was on the Spider-Man movie. Johnny Cash was supposed to sing it with them (it's an oldie).

Will be my last dance at my wedding.

My favorite FFH song ever.

Remember "Growing Pains"? Love, love, love.

Everything You Need to Listen to This Summer!

It's finally here. So, what should you listen to? You heard about bands that are great to get ready for summer, and now here's an updated list of SONGS you need to hear to get you in the summer-y mood. And don't worry, lyric posts are on the way! During the week of Nationals I'll probably have about five lined up to publish that week. And the week before I have a somewhat-pageant... yes, this girl is running for Greene County Princess! But here are some awesome songs that you might want to put on your iPod, especially if you're due for some new songs. (I know I am!)

Everyone needs motivation for a good workout, especially when jogging in the heat.

The clock-ticking is depressing... it mkaes me think of the music video when the kid is inside of, must I say, a SCHOOL.

The video makes me so excited to go the park and play beach volleyball with some friends...

I'm thinking of Phoenix an dI don't know why... maybe because it randomly pops in my mind and I wanna go back...

Nothing's better than guitar int he summertime. And the song is great "because I know that You love me..."

Again, there's that amzing guitar...

The piano reminds me of a swimming pool. FUN FACT: "Lovers in Japan" was the first song I ever learned on guitar.

The drumming and bass... amazing. Deas Vail wows everyone???

Yes. EVERY. ONE.

Even just Wesley (lead vocals) can wow the world.

Isn't the song sooo happy? Voted #1 best song to listen to during 1st period by... me.

This can also get you in a happy mood *sarcastic*...

Summer: the ultimate party.

Boyce Avenue... really hot.

I love Halocene. Remember when I was all sad because Relient K was in Phoenix the day after my stay for NFAF? Turns out, so was Halocene. Now I'm super depressed--- I could have been a fan way before now!

Summertime... "ain't no sunshine when she's gone, 'cause she's always gone too long any time she goes away."

Halocene again... but this time it's a Yellowcard song. I never say this about any cover, but dang... this is SO much better sounding than the original! Who's ready to hit the beach?

Landon Austin is so freaking hot... sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo hot... Combine Chad Sugg and Chris Martin and Mat Kearney and there he is. His beautiful voice, attractive looks, weirdly combed hair, and intense, raw talent. Usually I minimize videos when watching them, but I just have to look at him... it's addictive.

Who wants to play soccer? That sport brings bad memories, but oh well.

I love this girl... Yael is so talented, and this song brings a warm feeling of being around family and friends.

Who's thinking of the 90s when they hear this song? Am I the only one? 90s music is the heart of summe rmusic... I either think this song sounds like it because I was born in the 90s or because the band started in the 90s.

"Ignoble" definitely has a home-y, but very sad feel.

These images show some great summer memories for everyone. The song is "Take My Hand" by The Cab. You can also see some graduation images (0:12, 3:21, 3:29), and if you're a senior, well. CONGRATS!
~~~~
Well, have a nice summer. I will be posting WAY more often during the summer months and will be sure to update you on my discoveries of new bands and new songs to keep you happy this summer:)

OMIGAH it's HOPE!

Thanksgiving time means....

More stuff.
More blogging.
More writing (and finishing up the last chapter and epilogue of "Unspoken"--- yay!).
More food.
More music.
More time with me and my dog (I am petting her with my left hand and typing with my right at this moment).
MY FAMILY IS COMING TO MY HOUSE!!!! FOR THE FIRST TIME!!!!

About the stuff...
So, for my birthday, I got the entire "Dark Kiss" collection from B&BW, plus a shimmer mist that I'm wearing right now. I also got a beginner's guitar book, and I'm not a beginner so I know most of the stuff in the book, but it shows how to read music and I don't wanna learn that but it will be handy when I start playing cello. I got some guitar picks... not as thin as my lucky guitar pick so I can't holepunch them (bummer), but they'll be handy, too. I got some body sprays that smell REALLY GOOD and I'm putting them in my cubby at school--- one for when I first get off the bus, one for after lunch, one for after P.E. My favorite gift was a pair of headphones--- I NEEDED THEM! They're Sony headphones, and it took awhile to get used to the different kind of sound, but they're worth it alright. Earbuds never worked for me... one bud always popped out or something crazy like that, and even though they're more convenient, I'm a music geek that cares about the sound more than anything, so headphones are the thing for me. (note: listen to "Time" by Hans Zimmer with headphones instead of earbuds and it's magical!)

About Unspoken...
I'm working on the last two chapters in the rough draft. The book is moving by quarters. It's supposed to move by school quarters, but I'm really behind because my school's first quarter ended waaay at the beginning of this month, so I need to pick up the pace. Then, for quarter 2, I am taking out a few chapters and typing it up. For Quarter 3 I will have some friends and maybe some teachers proofread it and then I will revise it. For Quarter 4, I will start getting ready to publish and getting in touch with Morris Self-Publishing. And in the summertime, the book will be set to release. Then I will begin work on "The Interstate," and start the process all over for freshman year. My sophomore project will be "On Death's Edge." Then, I'll probably take a break to focus on my junior and senior years of high school and work on my music career. But I'm getting ahead of myself.

FOOD!
I love food soooo much! In fact, I will be posting a recipe on here really soon! Possibly today! And I just noticed today is Thanksgiving, so have a happy one. I'm thankful for Church's Chicken. And no, I didn't get to eat it Tuesday. And I was really looking forward to it.

More music!
I've been looking everywhere possible for tracks for all my Fine Arts Festival stuff. Right now, I'm working on my Spanish vocal solo, "How Great Thou Art", Carrie Underwood's version. It's actually really easy--- It is the first song I've ever done in high key, but despite that the Spanish lyrics are quite simple to memorize. I am also looking for songs for my ASL solo, and am currently torn between "Desire" by Deas Vail and "Who I Am Hates Who I've Been" by Relient K.

For my normal vocal solo, I am trying something else new. It's not in Spanish, and it's not in high key. BUT! For the first time ever, I am doing the music--- myself! I'm playing guitar along with my vocals! The song is "Something Beautiful" by NEEDTOBREATHE. This is gonna be interesting. It's pushing my range a lot, like on one part I have to go really low, and I'm not gonna take the easy way out and sing it the normal way--- I want people to hear how low my vocal range really is! I don't want people to hear the same baby that sang at Fun Arts in sixth grade. I don't want people to hear the same little kid that sang a song in low key and had to stop and catch her breath in the middle of a verse in seventh grade at the Fine Arts District Festival. I don't want people to hear the girl who had to sing soprano notes in "Excuses" every time the lead vocalist wasn't there before Nationals. I want them to hear the message the song has.

Also, if you want, go check out "Take My Hand" by The Cab. I had it on replay for around three hours last night and am still not tired of it! And check out "Go to the River" by Yael Naim. She's an indie folk artist, but trust me, you've heard a song or two by her (like this one that was on a lot of Apple commercials: "I'm a new soul...").

And, I'm working on a cover of "Lovers in Japan" by Coldplay. I've got the guitar chords down, all except for G. I don't think I'll post it on YouTube, but maybe. Besides, I don't wanna be one of those annoying commenters that say "I don't think anyone will see this but someone will see this..."

Good news!
My family is coming to my house this Thanksgiving! Yay! I can't wait for them to see my guitar and ferret calendar (don't ask...) and string bass/cello and autographed Deas Vail poster and random church pew... yeah. Excited.

So... see ya later.

*~~~ImagineThat~~~*
Hope!

My Autumn Playlist

I didn't have time to post the recipe I invented, so here's what's playing on my iPod this season!

1. "Paradise" by Coldplay. Me and my friends were jamming to it at lunch when unexpectedly, while dancing, I accidentally shook my iPod and it shuffled. I screamed "NOOO!" and they said I looked like the Devil, no less the Baby of Shame.
2. "Christmastime is Here" by Vince Guaraldi Trio. This is the instrumental that Coldplay is attempting to play at the end of "Charlie Brown" and they failed that part epically.
3. "Charlie Brown" by Coldplay. Despite the failed attempt to play the above song, this song rocks! I love the "light a fire..." part!
4. "Every Teardrop is a Waterfall" by Coldplay. Love the lyrics.
5. "Major Minus" by Coldplay. I love the acoustic guitar, vocals, bass, guitar lead... Not sure what I like.
6. "Be My Escape" by Relient K.
7. "Desire" by Deas Vail. While waiting for the bus one day, I had just received the album and just as Laura started saying, "mm..." the bus pulled around the corner! I knew it would be a good day!
8. "Excuses" by Deas Vail. Forget the six month band thing. I hate this song, but at the same time I have to love it. Gosh, I miss band practices... Gosh, take me back to Phoenix already.
9. "For Those Who Wait" by Fireflight. Beautiful...
10. "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" by Rascal Flatts. I like Christmas music--- don't be a hater!
11. "Make Your Move" by Third Day.
12. "Time" by Hans Zimmer. You know why this blasts on my iPod. I'm joining my school band if and when we get one, and this song is why I might do cello! However, I really wanna play the saxophone, so I Don't know...
13. "Who I Am Hates Who I've Been" by Relient K. 'I watched the perverbial sunrise coming up over the pacific end. You might think I'm losing my mind but I will shy away from the specifics.'
14. "The One I'm Waiting For" by Relient K. I love the 80s vibe it gives off!
15. "Common Sense" by Deas Vail. Only song that can make me sad and happy at the same time.
16. "Strawberry Swing" by Coldplay.
17. "Lovers in Japan" by Coldplay.
18. "Run Away" by Megan and Liz. It totally describes how I've been feeling in this beautiful season of autumn.

"We live in the shadow of the fall..."
-Selah, 'Unredeemed'.

Doctor Worm!

Doctor Worm

They call me Doctor Worm.
Good morning, how are you? I'm Doctor Worm.
I'm interested in things...
I'm not a real doctor but I
Am a real worm, I am an actual worm.
I live like a worm.

I like to play the drums.
I think I'm getting good, but I can handle criticism.
I'll show you what I know and you can
Tell me if you think I'm getting better on the drums.
I'll leave the front unlocked 'cause I can't hear the doorbell!

When I get into it, I can't tell if you are watching me twirling the spin.
When I give the signal, my friend Rabbi Warne will play the solo.

[Rabbi Warne's solo]

Someday, somebody else besides me will call me by my stage name. They will call me Doctor Worm.
Good morning, how are you? I'm Doctor Worm.
I'm interested in things...
I'm not a real doctor but I
Am a real worm, I am an actual worm. I live like a worm
And I like to play the drums.
I think I'm getting good but I can handle criticism.
I'll show you what I know and you can tell me if you think I'm getting better on the drums.
I'm not a real doctor but they
Call me Doctor
WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
RRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR
MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!

Autumn is Here!

"Summer days are held in a photograph. It's never the same. We can't go back."

FINALLY! Now, I can officially say that summer has forgotten me. Bye-bye swimming pools, staying up 'til 3 a.m., waking up at 2 p.m., humidity, hair that can't be tamed, and my favorite: Phoenix weather. I can't let Phoenix forget me--- I loved that place! I love how I did my hair when I was there--- I blow-dried the roots but let the rest stay soaking wet, and after two minutes outside, there it was, dry hair.

Well, hello school, the misery business, the illness that even though it's killing me now, it will lead me to success. I haven't blogged much lately, and I think I'm dead! But I didn't even get to see Jesus. However, my bus route goes by a whole bunch of houses that have angel statues in front of them (not good), and every time we drive by I tell myself, "DON'T BLINK." In case you've never seen "Doctor Who", angel statues are called Weeping Angels and if you blink, they are so fast that they can kill you in that small amount of time your eyes are closed. Creepy monsters they are. If I could be any monster from "Doctor Who", I'd be The Siren without a doubt. She's this beautiful angel who sings and stuff, and if you touch her you disappear. Then, in her little hospital or whatever where she holds people that have cut themselves or are injured in any way, if you touch a patient (as Amy learned when she touched her husband Rory's hand) she will turn into this red fireball. She's scary, but she rocks. If I could be any companion of the doctor (Matt Smith), I'd be Amy Pond because she's so awesome. Or I'd be River. I hate that character, but at the same time you have to love her because she's Amy and Rory's daughter, plus she's one bad chick! But overall, who wouldn't wanna be Matt Smith??? Ah, I'm a geek. A Whovian. I'm Hope and I'm a BBC American.

So yeah... waaay off topic. Well, things have been great. I'm joining my Youth group's worship team REALLY SOON, and here are a few songs that have been so true lately:

Is there a special someone? Ha ha, maybe. No one I wanna date though. At least not now.

Well, it's autumn. Hello, caramel apples, popcorn balls, hayrides, colorful leaves, food (Thanksgiving, baby!), furry boots and feather extensions, hot cocoa, bonfires, autumn breeze, corn mazes, and two announcements.

DEAS VAIL'S ALBUM IS COMING OUT OCTOBER 11TH!!!!!!
I'M TURNING THIRTEEN--- FINALLY!

Finally, I'll be able to call myself a teenager. I won't be easily defined as the youngest in my class anymore! I bet I'll still feel the same, but at least I won't get awkward stares when I say my age.

Like, one time in art class, my teacher asked if I was thirteen yet because we were gonna make art blogs (perfect for me, eh?) but didn't because some are under thirteen, and I was like, "No, I'm still twelve."
"You're twelve?" Shari asked.
"You're twelve?" Someone else asked. Maybe Makayla, I don't remember.
"You're twelve?" Another person, I believe it was Ian, asked.
"Guys, is there an echo in here or something?" I wondered out loud. One thing that is so true about the class of 2016 is this: We're eighth graders, we don't know anything. I might blog about that on "Eighth Graders Anonymous".

But yeah. So excited for autumn. This season is just so emotional--- expect some poems from me.

Rock on,
Hope!!!!!

P.S. Visit my buddy Mister Crow's (alias) blogs today, "Let's Meet On Cloud 9" and "Mid-Morning Sunset". They are in the blog list.

You Missed Me???

I'm BAAAAAACCCCKKK! Oh, so many good memories from Phoenix 2011. The Big Monkey Man (I'll explain that later), Tracey the Tree (that one will need some serious explaining later), performing, and swimming... good memories that just can't fit in one blog post. They just can't.

It's crazy. I woke up this morning in Phoenix, Arizona. I ate lunch in Denver, Colorado. Right now I am blogging from Dayton, Ohio. Some crazy stuff.

I didn't blog all week because:

1. I desperately needed a break
2. I was too busy having fun with the acquaintances whom I now call my friends
3. Wi-Fi wasn't working the first day
4. Time change was really messing me up...
5. Performing and attending service.

See! Those are all legitimate reasons! Here's some sad stuff, though.

Relient K. My hotel. The day after I leave.

Who loves Relient K? This girl! Well, this fan of the band found out that they walked the same halls that their favorite musicians are about to walk. Josh was wearing a Relient K shirt and well, Nathan saw some hotel lady and she was like, "Were you wearing a Relient K shirt?" and he was like, "No, that was my brother" and she was like, "Well, those guys are coming [to San Carlos hotel] after the Warped Tour for a little after-party on Sunday." 

So, Nathan told me about this. "You know, the Relient K guys are staying in OUR hotel---" (I gasped...) "On Sunday." (...I sighed.) Problem with that? We left the hotel today. No Matt Thiessen for this girl *whimpers*.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T!

Some airport guy called me "sir" today. I may have really short hair, but I'm pretty sure I look like a girl.

Waiting for a train....

You know I love my "Inception"! Well, downtown Phoenix has a lot of urban trains (kinda like subways, but above the ground) that are always going. Every time one passed, I was like, "You're waiting for a train. You know where you hope it will take you. But you can never be for sure..." Trains passed so often, the last time I said it, it was, "You're waiting for a train. You know---"

"HOPE!" People cut me off before I could finish. Told ya, I get annoying after a while.

"The History kids are coming, they're coming down the street..."

The History kids song. Brings back amazing memories. Well, it's always been an inside-the-History-club thing, but when I took my seat on the plane next to Nathan (who was not in the club), I heard him start singing:

"The History kids are coming. They're coming down the street. There's Robbie, Mark, and Jonathan and Hope and Hannah and Maria and Caitlin and Faith".

I was just like, how does he know that song??? Turns out, Mark was singing it on the escalator and that's how Nathan knew it.

The National Fine Arts Festival Diaries.

Want more? Can't get enough of Phoenix 2011? I'll spill two things:

1. Fine Arts (Nationals) will be held in Louisville, Kentucky next year. Come on... why not Honolulu???
2. Next year's STL/FAF theme will be "Relentless".

Still need more? Don't worry, more is coming--- more is coming, and you will hear everything from a day-to-day basis--- exactly what happened on each particular day (including a Matthew West performance). You'll just have to wait and see.

I already miss Phoenix. I spilled lemonade on my pants back in Ohio today and was thinking, "If only I were still in Phoenix, my pants would have already been dry within three minutes". I was at a county fair and passed something that smelled just like San Carlos, the hotel I was in. Then, me and Drew were watching the Disney Channel on the plane today and some kid was standing in front of the U.S. Airways Center--- where our Fine Arts ceremonies and services were held! Then I unpacked my bag today. Looked at some photographs. I couldn't help thinking about the festival and couldn't deny the feeling: I miss Phoenix already, and I haven't even been home for twelve hours. Arizona, I will come back for you!

Last but not least...

Never forget "Excuses".

This song makes me sad now. Not because our band didn't get called back (oops, wasn't supposed to tell you until I posted the diaries), but because it's over. No more Sunday band practices. It makes me sad because of how it united six teenagers plus one twelve-year-old (me) to become a band and maybe even great friends.

It makes me sad because all those memories are no longer being lived.

They're now locked away in a suitcase, ready to be unveiled when the time comes to hopefully ignite a spark, bring back a laugh.

I greatly enjoyed going to band practice every week (no matter how bad practice was). Even if I had the most terrible week, something about band practice lifted my spirits and I never missed a practice, never left one without a smile on my face or joy in my eyes (or tiredness). I could just go to band practice and all the emotions that were holding me back from being my happiest were gone.

Music unites people in a special way. That's why it's wonderful how we can worship God with music. How we can use something we've all grown to love for Him. The FAF band practices are over. But we can continue to use our gifts way past Fine Arts. There's a worship team and so much more.

Everyone has a gift.

Everyone has to ability to DISCOVER, and the determination to DEVELOP. But do you have the courage to DEPLOY?

My Summer Playlist

When you hear me say "playlist", you probably automatically think of the iPod on this blog (doesn't it look so cool?). I've been using it for two years now.

Well, here's what I've been listening to this summer (including some not-so-Christian songs).

1. "Chap Stick, Chapped Lips, And Things Like Chemistry" by Relient K. I've loved that song since I was eight years old.
2. "Closer" by Shawn McDonald. This song is the catchy-est Christian song I've ever heard, and it kinda reminds me of something Bruno Mars would do.
3. "Again" by Flyleaf. It's my favorite Flyleaf song, and one of my most-listened-to songs this summer! It's just awesome! I listen to it when I'm mad and it makes me happy AGAIN. I also love the meaning behind it. Watch... there just might be a lyric post of it coming from me soon!
4. "Better Than Revenge" by Taylor Swift. This is probably her best song, although I really like the lyrics to "Long Live". This is my favorite Taylor Swift song ever... WHOA OH!
5. "Desperate" by Fireflight. I love the guitar, and Dawn's voice is just incredible. It's impossible to sing that high for me! How does she do it? My favorite Fireflight member is Wendy, because she has awesome hair and plays bass (just like my dad does and I'm learning)!
6. "Fixed At Zero" by VersaEmerge. I used the video to this in "Operation: Stage Presence" last month, because not only do they have good presence, but Sierra's voice is awesome (and too high for my range)! I also love the guitar at 2:46 and 2:51. I don't know why, but it always gets me right there. Why isn't this song on my iPod? Don't ask me!
7. "For Those Who Wait" by Fireflight. I listened to that song a lot at the beginning of summer, so that explains why I'm kinda sick of it.
8. "Emergency" by Paramore. This song is sorta sad, but "It's really not your fault, when no one cares to talk about it..." I posted this in "Operation: Fun Fun Fun FUN!" Because my stage presence "Is an emergency".
9. "Best Love Song" by CIMORELLI. I like it better than the original, and Even though it's not the best love song, it was good enough for me to post it, and it sure is the "Crunkest"!
10. "Must Have Done Something Right" by Relient K. I once had this song on repeat for like, an hour! Okay, maybe not that long. But I'm "racking my brain for a new improved way" to listen to this song, because a stereo isn't good enough! If I knew Matt (both Thiessen and Hoopes), we'd be best friends. Matt Thiessen, "We should get jerseys cuz we make a good team. But yours would look better than mine, cuz you're outta my league". Stay tuned for a lyric post.
11. "Summer Forgets Me" by Deas Vail. I love the entire band, so I can't decide on a favorite! But if I have to have one, it'd be either Wes because he's the lead singer, Laura because she's awesome, or the bassist (forgot his name) because his stage presence is so awesome, it's almost funny! Stay tuned for a lyric post of "Summer Forgets Me".
12. Okay, I can't help myself... I have to tell you what the new Deas Vail song is. It's called "Gone". I love all the "oh"-ing in it. I'm kinda mad at Deas Vail right now because although it made it onto the Split EP with Farewell Flight, it won't be on the album I pre-ordered. But I'll get over it. All that matters is the meaning behind this song. Stay tuned for a lyric post of it.
13. "Baby" by Relient K. It's the best cover I've ever heard... I instantly fell in love with it.

"Here you are, down on your knees AGAIN. Trying to find air to breathe AGAIN. And only surrender will help you now. I love you, please see and believe AGAIN."

-Flyleaf, "Again", my song pick of today. Stay tuned for a lyric post.

Relient K is for KaraoKe!

If there's one band that loves the letter "K", it's Relient K.

A is for Apple
B is for Ball
C is for Chap-Stick
D is for Dog
E is for England (couldn't think of anything better!)
F is for Forgiven
G is for God
H is for HOPE!
I is for Igloo
J is for Jell-O
K is for KaraoKe!

I was upset when I found out Relient K was coming out with a cover album (and not originals) as I mentioned in my letter to Matt recently. But then I actually heard the covers, and I was like, "Never mind! This is good!"

The members are all grown up, have kids, and Matt [Thiessen] is helping Adam Young (from Owl City) with his tour and such, so we the fans are lucky that they're even coming out with a new album.

2:54 is my Matt being a little nerd :) But that's just his personality... Who else would wear a sweater and khaki pants to the Sadie Hawkins Dance?

I mentally cracked up when I heard "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun"--- I mean, zero girls in Relient K! Maybe I would have actually laughed if I weren't watching Switched at Birth (love that show!) the first time I saw it, and not wearing a tight facial mask the second time. But hey, who said you had to be a girl to have fun? Relient K just wants to have fun, too!

You probably laughed when you heard "Baby", Relient K style. Since the album is out now, you get to hear it full version! I know, you love me for posting it, don'tcha?

Only Relient K could take a Justin Bieber song and do it better than he did! Well actually, a lot of people can do that. BUT! I think this is the best Justin Bieber cover anyone has done! Is it me or does this version sound kind of... sad?

But whatever. I hope you had fun with the listening party and following me on my journey to being a HUGE Relient K fan!

P.S. I've been watching a lot of TV lately, and I've found some amazing shows on ABC Family! The Secret Life is addictive, but if ANY OF YOU end up like ANY OF THOSE TEENAGERS, I'm gonna show up at your house and you're not gonna like it. But, a great show to watch is Switched At Birth! I give it five stars because it hardly ever uses bad language and the show is completely appropriate for anyone ages 12 and up. It's on ABC Family, 8/7 Central (I think--- check out the channel to make sure), so go check it out--- you'll love it, GUARANTEED.

P.P.S. Deas Vail has a new song, but ssshhh! I can't tell you about it yet! Wait until fall... unless the title slips out of my mouth (or hands... I'm typing)!

Is It Real Or Is It... INCEPTION?

Inception. Planting an idea in someone's mind.

If you listen closely, at 2:03, you will hear an electric guitar. Doesn't it sound so cool? Although my favorite composer is Harry Gregson-Williams (the "X-Men" and {Disney/Walden} "Narnia" composer), I must admit I am impressed with this guy. I thought that this piece ("Time") was just beautiful. I loved the way "Inception" ended... especially when Arthur chuckled after he woke up.

Well, here's something more: Me and Matt Thiessen (Relient K's lead vocalist) have three things in common:

1. Chap-stick
2. Chapped lips
3. And things like chemistry.

"Chap-stick, Chapped Lips, and Things Like Chemistry" used to be on my mp3 when I was younger, but now I have an iPod. So now I've got three CDs with Relient K songs on them to hunt down.

That song is too funny. I love it when Matt is crowd surfing on top of the old people. Hilarious.

You see, I really like lip gloss, but not chap-stick. I don't know if Matt really likes chap-stick or he just really needs it.

As for chapped lips, I have really badly chapped lips most of the time. I really need chap-stick, but I don't want some right now.

Things like chemistry. I think I see where this dude is going. He must hate science, math, geography, calculus, biology, physics... all that crazy stuff. Welcome to my world.

I've never exactly lost my phone on a Batman ride, but me and Matt are both from Ohio. Even though I wasn't born there, and I doubt he lives there anymore, we're even.We also both listen to Deas Vail... he's just a few steps ahead of me but only because he toured with them and sang with them. That's it. We're both Christians. Both love music. Both have naturally curly hair. Similar vocal ranges (except that I'm a girl). Both are awesome peeps!
~~~~~~
So Matt,
If you're out there, I just wanna say hi. I think you're awesome. I love your hair. You may not be on my blog's best hair list, but you're on MY best hair list, and that's all that matters. "I must have done something right"... in fact, I know I did... I found "the best thing"--- Relient K! I heard you're coming out with a cover album soon, but I'm a little upset that they're covers and not originals. But you're forgiven. Besides, you do know that I'd take you to the "Sadie Hawkins dance" any day, right? But one question...

Do you like my sweater?
-Hope!
~~~~~
Great news, y'all! You're gonna be SOOOO jealous of me--- I just pre-ordered Deas Vail's upcoming self-titled album off of their merch site! I'm so excited! And what's even BETTER? Well, not only is it my first time pre-ordering anything (I never pre-order things because I usually just wait for it to come out in stores, so you know I really like this band if I'll pre-order!), but I also have a chance at receiving a free wristband and autographed poster! I just might be a part of the one hundred!

It's gonna be hard to not get my hopes up... the meesley two Deas Vail songs on my iPod are about to turn into fourteen--- in September.

It's gonna be a long wait, but...

"Remember that it's hard, because it's worthwhile."

-Deas Vail, Sixteen

All That Glitters

I figured that I might as well give you an update on all things me: My favorite bands, books I'm writing, poetry, the FAF band, and more news about my favorite bands.

The best bands on earth are signed to "Mono Vs. Stereo".
I just figured out today about "Sadie Hawkin's Dance", a Relient K song--- a really old one at that. It used to be on my mp3 when I was little and I didn't even know it was by Relient K! So, I've been listening to them since I was eight, actually. And by coinsidence, in the springtime of this year, they toured with Paramore. Paramore is mainstream, Relient K is Christian. They both sound great... I'd kill to be at that concert. Turns out "Chap Stick, Chapped Lips, And Things Like Chemistry" is by them, too. That used to be on my mp3, also! Wow, I used to be a Relient K fan and didn't even know I was.

^^^I LOOOOVVVVEEEE this song by Relient K! The pickup line ("we should get jerseys... cuz we make a good team") is awesome. It kinda makes me laugh.^^^

Then, another great band signed to the same label is the legendary, I blog about them too often, Deas Vail.

And no wonder that this band is so good, they've toured with both Relient K and Owl City. They sound amazing, and it upsets me that they have less than 10,000 views so far for this song. Their most popular one hasn't even reached 100,000 yet. I kinda wish I was the only person in the whole world that had heard of this band, but, if I were the only one, I'd still be a ParaHolic because Nathan E. is the one that introduced me to Deas Vail. That's a major pro that came out of joining ThExperience FAF Christian Band. (Please visit their Tumblr blog. It's an exceptional blog.)

On the paper side of things...
I've been trying to finish "Unspoken" and all these ideas have been popping into my mind!

"Viva Las Vegas" is now called "Fourteen", because the number matches up with the murder timings and amounts.

"Never Say Never" has been changed back to the title "Loser!"

"A New Perspective" has been changed back to the title "The Interstate".

"Bury The Castle" is now called "On Death's Edge" because that title sounds WAAAYYY more unique.

BRAND NEW AND IMPORTANT: I'm working on a book called "Yellow Ribbons", which is about a girl who's fiance or husband has been deployed to Iraq. I might enter a chapter of it into the District Fine Arts Festival. I'm trying to find out if he should be her hubby or fiance.

"The poet and the beat..."
I love music (just stating the obvious). I love writing. So:

Music lover + Poetry + Putting it to music = Perfect combination.

One problem: Putting it to music. My songs always end up... um... quite bogus. BUT! I can still write poetry and dream up music to put with it! You should see more poems from me soon.

Everything? Temporarily falling apart.
Band has been great lately. Absolutely awesome. Wonderful. But far from perfect, which is okay with me but... this describes our practice on Sunday:

FIRST RUNTHROUGH
Amazing!

MIDDLE
Brian: Drums off beat.
Mariah: Forgetting the next chorus again.
Mark: Piano player absent for his brother's graduation.
Hope (me): Not even saying lyrics on some parts... kinda mumbling.
Nathan: Already ending the song!

The others (Josh and Chris) did fine though, but we were all quite lost.

END
We ended on a high note at least.

Yeah. Not our finest practice. We're each working on our stage presence, so hopefully we'll do good in Phoenix. And hopefully that mini dust bowl there clears up so we can fly down there.

That's a great deal!
Deas Vail is the best band in the world and they want to show you the LOOOOOVVVVEEEE. First of all, their 2009 album, "Birds and Cages", is only $5 for the rest of July. AND! If you pre-order the upcoming album, "Deas Vail", they will ship it to your house on September 2nd and if your apart of the first 100 customers (you probably will be because they're not a popular band at all), you'll get a wristband for free with an autographed poster. Come on! You can't resist! If you're excited about this, Wes will give you the details.

See ya later!

It's The Best Thing!

I just had to post this song. I'm starting to REALLY LOVE, and I mean really looooove Relient K.

This girl in my 4-H club named Zoe asked me last Thursday what song describes my life. She said her song was "The Lazy Song" by Bruno Mars ("Today I don't feel like doing anything. I just wanna lay in my bed. I don't feel like picking up my phone so leave a message at the tone cuz today I swear I'm not doing anything... NOTHING AT ALL!") but I said that my song is "The Best Thing" by Relient K cuz it is the best love song (Sorry T-Pain and Chris Brown) I've ever heard in my life.

This song used to be on my iPod, but then someone took the entire WOW CD off the computer which deleted "This Is Home" by Switchfoot, "Unbreakable" by Fireflight, and "The Best Thing" by Relient K. I already told you about it, but just to let you know I lost this song too. Bummer. LUCKILY, the album is present in my house, I just gotta find it. No luck there.

There was nothing to blog about so that's it.

"Well sorry to disappoint you."

-Nickabrick, "The Chronicles Of Narnia: Prince Caspian"

Sorry! I was just SOOO bored out of my mind, so here ya go! Since I just wasted your time, here's something you might find interesting.

Not to waste more time or anything.

SO, since I just wasted more time, (the ten-second-long song you just listened to is also by Relient K... I love these guys already!) you might as well check out the ongoing drama in my latest addition to the muffin saga and that will make your visit worthwhile.

Written in Quotations

Today, I thought I might mention some of my absolute favorite quotes. Some are from songs I like, some from Narnia, others I found in random places.

"Don't worry about the world ending today. It's already tomorrow in Australia."

-Charles M. Schulz

"You go too far, Miraz!"

-Disney/Walden's "Prince Caspian"

"When your time comes, will you be ready?"

-Unknown

"If you're lucky enough to be different, don't ever change."

-Taylor Swift

"You can forgive me too..."

-Relient K, Forgiven

"I'll stop the whole world. I'll stop the WHOLE WORLD from turning into a monster, and eating us alive! Don't you ever wonder, how we SURVIVED?..."

-Paramore, Monster

"You'll come back, when it's over. No need to say goodbye. You'll come back, when it's over. No need to say goodbye..."

-Regina Spektor, "The Call"

"She's wearing a hat!"

-"Bandslam"

"I had it sorted!"

-Disney/Walden's "Prince Caspian"

"She's not a saint and she's not what you think--- She's an actress! WOAH OH!"

-Taylor Swift, "Better Than Revenge"

"The best thing is that it's happening to you and me!"

-Relient K, "The Best Thing"

"Let it set your heart ON FIRE! Let it set you FREE!"

-Fireflight, For Those Who Wait

"Baby, don't waste this chance cuz it might not come back... COME BACK AROUND!"

-Deas Vail, Sixteen

Forgiven...

Forgiven

Oh yes,
I know this tension that you speak of...
We're in the palm of a hand making a fist.
It'd be best
For one of us to speak up...
But we prefer to pretend it does not exist.
And you can't see past the blood on my hands,
To see that you've been aptly damned to fail and fail again.

Cuz we're all
Guilty of the same things
We think the thoughts whether or not we see them through
And I know that I have been forgiven
And I just hope you can forgive me too...

So don't you dare blame me for
Prying open the door
That's unleased the bitterness
That's here in the mist of this.
Sometimes we live for
NO ONE BUT OURSELVES.
And what we've been striving for
Has turned into nothing more
Than bodies limp on the floor,
Victims of falling short.
We kiss goodbye the cheek of our true love.

And you can't see past the blood on my hands
To see that you've been aptly damned
To fail and fail again

Cuz we're all
Guilty of the same things
We think the thoughts whether or not we see them through.
And I know that I have been forgiven
And I just hope you can forgive me too,
You can forgive me

Too....
Oh oh oh oh...
Oh oh oh oh...

(oh oh oh oh...) And you can't see past the blood on my hands
To see that YOU'VE BEEN APTLY DAMNED
To fail and fail
AGAIN.

Cuz we're all
Guilty of the same things
We think the thoughts whether or not we see them through.
And I know that I have been forgiven
And I just hope
You can forgive me too...

Oh oh oh oh
You can forgive me too,
You can forgive me too....
You can forgive me,
Can forgive me,
Can forgive me,
You can forgive me too...

Bass Is Kickin' It!

Bass... you would have expected me to blog about it by now, huh? Being a bass guitarist's daughter? I think I would expect that of me, too. Of all the things I blog about, (music, fashion, MUFFINS???) I still haven't blogged about this.

Here are the best bassists in the world!!! (In my opinion.)

0:53 and 1:56 are where the bass really kicks it! 3:02 through the rest of the song sends chills down my spine, but the best part is 3:08 when after the violin, everybody kicks in and it gets loud again! That part is just legitimately awesome! Crazy! SWEET!!! It reminds me of why I love rock music.

So, who's the rockin' bassist in Fireflight? Wendy Drennen! Yep, she's a girl, and she rocks the bass... she knows what she's doing! You may have noticed that she's the only other girl in the band. She does a few BGVs (background vocals) in this song, they just don't have her lip-sync in the video. I love her hair... I love how when she headbangs, which is quite often, (notice she's whipping her hair back and forth every time they show her?) and all this red shows up in her hair... she has it highlighted PERFECTLY. You can see exactly how it is in the "Desperate" music video.... another great song by them.

Fun Facts: Wendy is married to Glenn, which he's a lead guitar for the band. Wendy and Glenn are Fireflight's founding members, and have had their most popular song---"Unbreakable"---featured on an NBC commercial! I love you, Fireflight!

2:29 I love! and 3:27 through to the end... legit. So, the piano kicks it more than the bass, but whatever. I just wanted to blog this song because I'm officially a Relient K fan now!

Who's the bassist? I don't know. Their bassist quit the badn in '04, so I don't know who's doing bass in this song.

Fun Facts: Does the vocals sound familiar? Matt, the lead singer, sang "It's not that there are ever bad intentions, it's more that we forgot where to go home. For important things that we don't know to mention... it's the uniform that we put on, the formula we have for love" in 'Birds' by Deas Vail.
This band is an Ohio band! They formed in Canton!
One of their recent albums is called "Five Score And Seven Years Ago". Ha!
Deas vail opened for their Christmas concerts and they have opened for Paramore.
They've been with the label Mono Vs. Stereo (possibly still are) and Deas Vail is with them, too. They've been with Jive, which Hot Chelle Rae is with them, too. (Hot Chelle Rae performed "Tonight Tonight", the newly popular, as of yesterday, song. When I saw the video awhile ago, they only had a few thousand views. Now, they're in the millions!)

Good day!
Hope!

P.S. "Ask me Anything" is being deleted due to huge difficulties of my Blogger account constantly signing out and not letting me sign back in to post comments.