How to Have an Epic Wedding Proposal

I would like to start with my idea of the WORST WAY to get proposed to and married like ever I would die.....

Thing we've learned from this video:
    A- starting off by a cheating thing, or being pulled over by a cop (i've seen that to) or any of these bone head things are not good tricks! Starting off angry to then joy is not how I would want to start my life with someone
   B- it's very impersonal there is no intimacy with close family and friends
   C- in general girls plan this idea in their minds for years ( we are programmed to) and to have all the joy of a life long dream mashed into 15 minutes is intense- at least in this scenario there is no pre wedding jitters or months of family squabbles!

Oh look I found an "arrest" proposal Fake Arrest for Contest


       Now I would like to share some of the videos I have come across in the past year that are so amazing and beautiful. When I get cynical and believe me I have my moments I watch these videos and it gives me hope that there are people out there who really do love each other. In my motherless daughters group the girls inspire me by the stories they tell of the men who wouldn't give up on them even when they pushed them away or tested their love- they wouldn't back down. When you've experienced loss your default assumption is you will die young or anyone you love will die it's just the way your brain thinks. If I ever get married I know my Mom will not be there and that hurts and I'm not even engaged yet. The girls explained to me that "when you find the right one everything makes sense and you can't picture it any other way because you are creating a new family with them." Here are some truly thoughtful proposals by people who have found the one person who makes them want to jump on the wedding train. 

5. This is actually a sudo copy cat of my number one 1 favorite with a gratitude twist thrown in which I love

What we learned from this video:
     - it's effective when you speak from the depths of you heart sincerely
     - even acquaintances will help you do pretty much anything for love
     - if you don't have an 100% original idea you can just switch up someones already brilliant
       one. Which you will see in the number 1 spot.

4. You can totally try to rope a celeb into helping

I mean Zach Braff come on really!

I don't even know this game but how original!

What we learned from getting a celeb to help is:

     -It's effective to use someones favorite thing in their proposal

     - You get serious bonus points for somehow/someway convincing the celeb to do it

     - Your bringing it to the next level which deserves major props

3. Nothing quite says commitment like a proposal over 6 years!!!!!

What we've learned from this video:
    -It's effective to still have a trick up you sleeve even if they "know"    
    - When you know you know so why not make something special out of the build up
    - The pre planning aspects of this is truly a long term commitment making it powerful


2. When in doubt you can always default to her favorite story growing up

She always wanted to be Windy and now she is!

This is a little podunk but he really took the fairy tale thing to heart

Thing we learned from these videos:
    - it's effective to make a girl's fantasy/dream come to life
    - there's something powerful about connecting her current life to her childhood ideas
    - most girls like getting dresses up so that always helps

Now for the top proposal video ever!

Why does that not look like anything in video number 5.........Because the number one spot is a tie!!!! Between Matt and Ginny (above) and Issac and Amy's (below)

Wow- just wow. I am not kidding you these 2 videos make me cry they are so amazing!
What did we learn from these top truly most epic best proposals ever?!?!?!?!?
   - it's effective when you come up with/dream of the most insane proposal plan and then actually make it happen
   - When you can include the person's family and friends they will love it even more because they get to share the experience
   - the build up to the reveal is intense/exciting/magical they both knew with the first few seconds they would be proposed to but it wasn't until 5 minutes later to which the moment and excitement is continuously growing. When they are finally asked they can barely speak because they are in so much shock/amazement/pure joy.

People often say that chivalry is dead and that men of quality and substance no longer walk this fine planet. Well I can't say there are many but there are 7 men and 1 women who certainly do. So i'm playing my odds a billion to 1! Ya know my father has the super lucky all the time gene and he passed it on to me in the form of getting really lucky every once in awhile! One of the girls in my motherless daughters group said "I know my mother sent me this man this best kind of man." So between Dad's luck and Mom's divine presence I've gotta believe that I can find that 8th super amazing man.... there must be one left somewhere in the world!

PS This one came out 7/24/13 http://gma.yahoo.com/blogs/abc-blogs/man-uses-42-bed-sheets-write-marry-girlfriends-122445614.html

I love Sea Otters!

It's no secret I think Sea Otters are the most precious adorable creatures on this planet besides brother/sister twins. I love that they are extremely intelligent and "its use of rocks to dislodge prey and to open shells makes it one of the few mammal species to use tools." They are all super playful and love spinning as they dart around the water. River otters are also neat but very long and not as cute. Here are some amazing videos that really represent their impressiveness...

1. In captivity then can be taught to do this...

And this....

2. They are also very loving and nurturing

3. They will play with just about anything

or even this....

5. The pups are big fluff balls that makes the most adorable/annoying squeaks

6. The way they spin is breathtaking and looks so fun!

 

     In my video watching I came across some people who had pet otters that they had in houses. I don't know that comes to be. I've only even seen the otters in aquariums and yet to out in the wild. The thing about sea otters is that they are going extinct. They heavy duty fur was a very profitable in the early days and used for hats. Still hunted today combined with pollution this beautiful creature is on the endangered species list. I didn't intend for the post to go this way it just did. If you feel inclined to help save these cuties you can donate to World Wildlife Federation
I wanted to share the beauty of these amazing mammals and hopefully they will brighten up you day as much as they do mine!

British Boys/Men Beyond Babeilicious

         Here is a comprehensive list of the most amazing beyond babeilicious boys and men (see section 2) who hail from the great island of Britannia. It is no secret if you know me you know I have a super serious weakness for British accents, well all EU accents but especially theirs. Feel free to swoon, drool, or ogle to you hearts content. Order does not pertain to likeability...

The Under 35ers - The Boys
Henry Cavill: 30, Jersey Channel Island, Newly attached like it became official this week
Henry recently has skyrocketed to popularity with the release of "Man of Steel" his abs "steal" the screen. I however fell in love when he played the playboy Charles Brandon in "The Tudors". I mean shirtless, in the ruffled white shirts, or all dolled up in period costume his presence kept me watching all 4 seasons. My love deepened in his small bit part in Stardust as the secret gay man. I would go anywhere and do anything with him.

Eddie Redmayne: 31, London, Attached
I first got my love dose of Eddie in "My Week with Marilyn" He's been in 2 versions of Queen Elizabeth movies and why not he's that talented! Just when you think there's no way he could be more adorable you find out that boy can really sing. In "Les Miserables" his voice and puppy dog love for Cosette is precious and completely swoon worthy.

Robert Pattinson: 27, London, Single? bye bye Kstew
Sure sure ya he's that guy from twilight but before that he was Cedric in "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire". There was one moment when flying on a broom chasing those bird/ball things (any muggles want to tell me the name of those?!?) when he raises his head up and stares into the camera I think I was about 18 and squealed. I told my mom that one day he would be famous (point me) boy did I call that one! Maybe it's the hair or those oh so chiseled cheek bones- I don't care if that pale disgusting makeup makes him look dead he is still hot.

Jim Sturgess: 35, London/Surrey, Attached
Most people know Jim as the card counting MIT student in "21". I however am obsessed with Jim as Jude in "Across the Universe." Again there is singing and romance and he just looks so damn amazing getting angry singing Revolution totally worth illegally living in the country for. A bit of an ass in "One Day" he more them redeems him self as several characters in "Cloud Atlas" when I proclaimed "That is so Jim I would know those eyes anywhere!" no mask or makeup can fool me from spotting this hottie.

Aaron Taylor-Johnson: 23, High Wycomb, Married
I almost feel bad for liking this boy at 23 although he is more man then most boys his age also married to someone double his age! Aaron first blew my mind as the creative and slightly disturbed Lennon in "Nowhere Boy." When he took on the Russian adulterous soldier Vronsky in "Anna Karenia" he made me want to run away with him. Sure he's young, sure he's married to a women who could easily be his mom, he is still lovely.

Joseph Morgan: 32, Wales, Single Maybe Attached
The first time I set eyes on Joseph was as William Price in "Mansfield Park" short but sweet role. It wasn't until his ongoing stint at Klaus in "Vampire Diaries" that I really fell. He's twisted yet thoughtful, a hidden artist, and killer= complex to say the least. No one likes a simple man and he's proving to be a chameleon like actor that I simply can't get enough of.

The Over 35ers- The Men

Hugh Grant: 53, Hammersmith, Single
Oh come on does he even need a descriptor?!?! Bridget Jones, Love Actually, Notting Hill, Two weeks Notice, and as Edward in Sense and Sensibility ( I really really can't get enough of men dressed in period costumes) he is dashing in all of them. Throughout the years he has done some pretty questionable things- anyone remember the transvestite (not judging just commenting)? But with a quick smile and sarcastic comment all is forgiven he's too cute to hate for long even as the douchy cheating Daniel Clever he can always charm his way back to love.

Colin Firth: 53 Grayshott, Married
Another one who needs no description. A man whose played Darcy in period accurate clothing (in that infamous white shirt) to a modern version of the same character in "Bridget Jones's Diary" that boyish charm is to precious and he's been married to his wife for ages, a very sexy quality. This man just seems to get better and better with age! Oh ya the "King's Speech" was pretty much a masterpiece of acting- did I mention he can sing to mamma mia he's amazing.

Jude Law: 41, Lewisham, Divorced
The British bad boy you don't want to love but you really just can't help it... bad for his wives good for us. He's been in 52 imbd credited and movies- yes 52 I just counted! I like him for one of the most ridiculous movies he ever made- Alfie - haven't seen it? well no one else has either. It doesn't even matter whether he takes on the heartthrob or the weird creepy guy he masters it all.

Matthew Macfadyen:39, Norfolk, Married
Another Darcy makes this list. A more sensitive take in the film he did an amazing as Mr Darcy in "Pride and Prejudice" (sexy, reserved britishness is paramount for that role). He also used that same skill set to excel in "Anna Karenina" and "Little Dorrit." He is softer and loveable and oh so adorable as Logan Mountstewart in the mini series "Any Human Heart" what can't he do? Not sure I still can't find anything.

Here is a list of films that contain more then 1 of these babeilicious Brits including:
 Bridget Jone's Diary
 Bridget Jones Edge of Reason
 Anna Karenia
 Cloud Atlas
 Love Actually
 Immortals

Pretty is the New Ugly

pret·ty

[prit-ee] Show IPA adjective, pret·ti·er, pret·ti·est, noun, plural pret·ties, adverb, verb, pret·tied, pret·ty·ing.adjective

1.pleasing or attractive to the eye, as by delicacy or gracefulness: a pretty face.

        So in the past few weeks I have developed a strong disdain to being called "pretty" and "sweet." Why wouldn't you want to be called two very complimentray adjectives you may ask? The thing about it implies that this how i'm defining you as that one thing. I feel like I am a dynamic complex person with numerous facets to my personality. In different enviornments and with different people my idenity seems to chameleonize. 

       On Friday I got to see one of my east coast friends who I have not seen in about 2 years. He knows me in a way west coast people probably haven't seen yet. For a whole 5 minutes I felt like I was just me again the Shannon who is so loveable and happy, everyone wants to be her friend. In LA I have become fiercely independent, strong willed, and use to being alone. Some of that carefree nature and hippesque lack of abandon had been replaced with a fighting need for survival. It's different when the only thing you have to fall back on is your own self. 

       At my job I feel like there is a version of me that's teetering between professional adult and my innate nature to socialize and be friends. I dress a certain way, act a certain way, and even become a certain way when I am there. Of course we all act more professional at work and cut loose when were off but it's almost more then that. I struggle to identify myself as I grow into adulthood and yet I still want to incorporate the traits that make me unique and one of a kind. Pretty in not unique and sweet will probably always be the number one additive others use to describe me.  

       Calling someone pretty one day also implies that they didn't look pretty the day before. They're not saying wow the way you put that outfit together is so stylish or your accessories are so one of a kind. I get "pretty" often and it is sweet if I never got complimented I would probably be devastated. However when you interact with dozens of people a day who say the same exact thing to you it gets numbing. Outwardly I accept every remark gracifully and with smile inwardly i'm rolling my eyes and pouting. Pretty and sweet are also both degrading as a women who wants to be complimented on her job performance and character.

      I want to be seen as someone who is strong, loyal, courageous, independent, trustworthy, vivacious, and intriguing. I am someone who is transitioning into adulthood the only way I know how- trial and error. I'm finding my way in the more adult world and this city that continues to push me to my limits in every way. I challenge you tomorrow to go to one coworker and say something genuinely nice to them a compliment that is sincere and individualized for that person. Even thought my pretty is the new ugly for someone that might be something they never been called. Every human in unique so find out what makes you - YOU and never let it go ~S~

This chic totally agrees with me and waxes poetic about it http://www.upworthy.com/this-womans-beef-with-prettiness-will-leave-you-speechless?c=ufb4
  
A Fab article on a similar note Lena Dunham style: http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2013/03/14/lena_dunham_playboy_interview_dunham_doesn_t_want_the_body_of_a_victoria.html

Just in case you needed any more "proof" http://hellogiggles.com/why-being-called-pretty-sometimes-gets-ugly 

  

Now this is a LOVE song!!

Now if someone wrote this for you it would be pretty fucking epic!

Your Spirit Animal

There was this one day in 4th grade when we had Native Americans come into our class and do a presentation about their culture and traditions.The man said "I love the sound of the rain I would rather listen to falling rain then music any day." I was shocked I thought 'I love the sound of rain too' and no adult had ever said something like that to me before. At one point we all went around the circle and picked an Indian name. When it came to me for whatever reason I was stuck he suggested "Sea Otter" which I joyfully agreed to. Between my new name and the rain comment I was enamored with what they were saying. From that day on the Sea Otter always kind of stuck with me. While other kids picked lions or elephants when it came to projects I picked the Sea Otter -River Otters didn't appeal to me half as much. In 6th grade we had one such project on the classification of any animal. I learned that sea otters are one of the only creatures that can eat sea urchins they get one from the ocean bottom then resurface lie on their backs and use a rock to hammer open the urchin = genius. I also love the way they play. They twist, turn, chase, flip and I spent many a summer imitating them when no one was looking in my pool. One site describes the otter spirit animal as "strong family bonds, adaptability, maternal instincts, playfulness, and being good natured. Otters are monogamous creatures who mate for life. although it is the female who raises the offspring almost completely alone. Otters frolic in the water and play, but they are also skillful hunters." I started thinking about my love for otters after watching this video the other day

How precious is that? First off these are River Otters but they are still amazing- look how the play and interact with the baby- they are sooooo smart! At a zoo once I connected with this spider monkey and when I put my hand up to the glass it did too matching right up with mine- it was insane! Kristen Bell recently shared her experience when her boyfriend brought a sloth to their house for her birthday and she really flips if you haven't checked it out it's worth a watch http://ellen.warnerbros.com/2012/01/kristen_bells_sloth_meltdown_0131.php I feel like I would react the exact the same way if for some reason I could interact with a sea otter. Swimming with dolphins was the closest I've got and it's such a surreal experience when your just so close to these amazing animals. 

So want to find out what animal you most embody the spirit of??? Take this test: http://www.jerismithready.com/quiz/ I got swan which looking at the description I think is pretty much me

You are a Swan! (your score: 28)

Characters: Tereus, Kalia in the Aspect of Crow trilogy
Powers: Foretelling future through dreams, dream-walking
Swans are idealistic, open-minded, and passionate. Your good nature often leads people to think they can take advantage of you, but they should be careful—beneath that serenity lies a fighting spirit. Your love is fierce and unconditional, fueled by the certainty that it should last forever.
Best matches: Wolves, Horses, Otters
Watch out for: Cougars, Foxes, Hawks

Have you ever had an interaction with an animal that just blew your mind???

Styles of Shoes Styles of Men.

At work I often have a lot of time to just think since there is usually a point in the day when you have done all your tasks, talked to all you coworkers, and still there are no customers. Also the women's shoe department has the highest percentage of straight male men and it's right across from me so inevitably it comes to mind from time to time. Now I noticed each guy in the department has not only their own unique personality they also have a unique way of interacting with the customers and coworkers. Each a little different with their pros and cons but essentially all the same "product" at the end of the day- men.

The Gil- The Espadrille Wedge: is a shoe that is still exciting because it's high but it's also more comfy then a stiletto. It's cute and fun for a casual day out but it's not something you wear everyday. If you date a Gil you will have fun and flirt but there's no long term commitment.
The Dale- The Ballet Flat: is the least threatening shoe it's like the best friend of footwear. You can wear it anywhere with anybody sure it can be sexy but mostly you feel safe knowing you won't fall. If you date a Dale you may lack excitement but you will always have a solid footing.   
The Kevin- The stiletto heel: when you put on a pair you feel sexy your legs look long and fine and you are ready to party. Sure they are fantastic but only for about an hour then they kill and you would do just about anything to have any other shoe on your feet. If you date a Kevin it will be a roller coaster kick ass time until he gets bored and moves on to something sexier.
The Freddie- Classic Sneaker: you can't go wrong with a piece of footwear that is timeless, easy, and hassle free. If your looking for a no frills easy going relationship and on occasion a few compliments thrown in then date a Freddie.
The David- Patent Leather Pump: under the guise of being sexy patent leather usually looks a little cheap. You get a nice one liner and wink from time to time but that doesn't really end up satisfying you when all is said and done but maybe you don't want the commitment anyways??
The Don- The Bootie: Sure it sounds dirty(picture Sir Mix A lot) but it also sounds innocent (little babies wear booties right??) that's what you get when you date a Don you get both sides, someone who gives off the vibe of being tough and sexy but really is just a softie at heart.
The Matt-Knee High Boot: This is a classic stable item every women should own it's not only practical but sexy too. When you date a Matt it may seem simple and understated at first but it also comes with the surprise wow factor when you least expect it.. and it will blow your mind.

Now some women have a staple piece of footwear they never take off...some like to switch it up depending  on the occasion or their mood but ladies never forget there are as many men as there are styles of shoes....choose wisely! ~S~

Funny Baby Video!!!!

I think this is sooo precious!