Happy New Year???

If you would have asked me a month ago what I would be doing for New Year's, this would be the LAST thing I would have replied. I'm trapped in Black Mountain. Literally. I CAN'T LEAVE...basically my mom dragged Polly, Jack, and me up here yesterday morning. It wouldn't have been bad, EXCEPT there is snow everywhere. And I'm not talking pretty white and fluffy snow. I'm talking week-old, brown, and icy sludge. It is gross. You can't walk without slipping, and the roads are still pretty messy, making going places and doing things next to impossible. And of course, I don't have the shoes for it...Also, for some reason, there seems to be a shortage of food in the house. Ever since I've gotten here my stomach has been complaining about being empty. So, no food, ice encrusted land, and nothing to do except sit inside and stare into space....Yup. Don't you wish you were up her enjoying THIS New Years Eve bash??? Yeah, I thought not. But as I sit here on the couch, counting down the hours until I rush back home to civilization, I can't help but feel blessed by the presence of my grandparents and cousins here with us. At least they're miserable right here beside me! We've been talking about our resolutions for this year, and I realized I don't have one yet....is that bad? I just don't even know where to start. This next year holds so much promise, and so much change. I really don't know what to expect- college stuff starting, senior year starting, looking more into the future than ever before. So, I suppose, this year I go forward without a concrete resolution (not that I won't strive to live up to my God given potential, you know what I mean), but instead look forward with hope and anticipation- My first hope? Getting out of the mountains without going crazy! (insert aggravated scream here) And to all my friends who are headed to some killer parties tonight, think of me when that clock strikes 12. I wish you all a very Happy New Year!

p.s.- don't you love the virtual piano I added to this blog? Its your late Christmas present. Enjoy!

Movies in Review

The countdown is on- only 5 more days of Christmas vacation. 5 more blissful days of no responsibility, sleeping late, and not killing myself over homework. Ah well, all good things must come to an end I suppose. But really- this break has been better than just "good" so far. I've had tons of time to relax. I've read a ton of books, drunk wayyy to much Starbucks, and caught up on some tv I've missed. And of course, I've watched a boat-load of sweet movies. And, since I'm such an avid movie buff, I thought I'd just share what I thought about a few of them. Enjoy!

"Me and Orson Welles"- Not many people know about this movie. And to be honest, I think thats a shame. I went into the theatre with low expectations about the film, and was pleasantly surprised. This film is a MUST SEE for all theatre kids ( esp. Act One members), since the story revolved around a production of a Shakespeare. If your not fluent in Shakespearean verse, or in theatre lingo, I can see where this film would be a stretch for you. But the movie itself is a visual treat, set in the heart of New York. Zac Efron did a nice job in the film, although the stand out star in my book was Christian McKay (the one and only Orson!). I didn't care for Claire Danes all that much, but that may have just been due to the character she portrayed. The story was fresh, funny, and sometimes unfortunate in its circumstances. All in all- Great. Only problem? Zac's shoes...Converses were so not around back then. Trailer link below:

http://www.imdb.com/video/imdb/vi1900872985/

The Princess and the Frog- What can I say? I love Disney! And yes, I know. I'm five years old. But anyway, this cartoon had a lot to live up to, and it did not disappoint. The songs, the animation, the story- all such fun. My favorite song in the movie was "Almost There", sung by the princess at the start of the story. The only downer to the movie had to do with the villain- although he was quite the character, the voodoo performed was a bit much for the little kids in the audience. But oh well. Clip link below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAVM-vwX8Pk

Nine- Risque, raunchy, and all that jazz left members of the audience feeling like they'd been on quite the ride by the end of this movie. Rob Marshall proves yet again that he is the master of the "movical". Although not quite as funny or story driven as Chicago, this film was (in my opinion) even more beautiful technically than the Best Picture winner. The plot was simply tragic, and Marion Cotillard was SUPURB as Louisa Contini. Penelope Cruz was predictably raunchy in the film, but she nailed her song like no one else, so props to her. Already gleaning Golden Globe nominations, this film is something to talk about. * can't recommend it to boys though. Sorry! Trailer below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_5_lzags3I

Julie and Julia- Amy Adams. Meryl Streep. A cooking blog. Could you ask for anything more? I think not, friends. All in all, this movie was good fun. Although a tad slow at times, the viewer enjoyed two intertwined plot lines (both true stories!) that were each entertaining in their own way. I especially enjoyed the relationship between Julie and her husband. Talk about adorable. Only drawback? I wasn't a big fan on the end...but you'll just have to watch it for yourself to see what you think. Trailer below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vjvJHsJD8ic

....and that was just a few of the movies I've watched this past week :)

The Christmas Countdown

Carrots and ranch dressing. Mozzarella sticks. SNL. Taylor Lautner. Ice Cream. "Friends"season 1-10. The Pancake House. All of these random items can only mean one thing. Yup- Maddison has officially returned from her trip to India. And of course, leave it to us to have a sleepover party in the midst of her jet-lag. So, it wasn't the most lively get-together we've ever had (we went to bed at, like, 11:30. Are we party animals, or what!?!), but it was quite the fun time. We talked a little about the trip- the next time you see her, ask her all about it! You won't be disappointed! Also, we watched some good episodes of Friends. Man, I have missed my Friends. And of course it was all topped off with a trip to the Pancake House in the morning. We were the only teenagers in there, which made us all laugh at what the rest of people our age are missing. I mean, cheap delicious pancakes= happiness. But anyway, it was a reunion for the books. Welcome Home Maddison!

...On another note, ITS CHRISTMAS EVE. And it is simply magical at the Hilton house. Jack is so excited he's about to bust. And Polly and I have just spent an hour making the most fantastic gingerbread house of all time. The Grinch is playing on tv, and my mom is out scrambling to get presents. Yes, Friends, this is Christmas. And then at 5:00 we have our service at Elevation. To be honest, I'm more excited about that than tomorrow...We have a ton of family coming in, and there is bound to be some amazing food. Ah, the holiday season. It truly is, "The most wonderful time of the year!"

The "Bill" Factor

So, last night, I had the immense pleasure of spending the evening with the Junior Class Discilpeship Group for a Christmas cookie and movie party. Our fabulous group of girls had a wonderful time eating, and decorating and talking nonstop- so kudos to our leaders on the party! But anyway, since it was a Christmas party, it was only fitting for us to watch a Christmas themed movie. Our Choice? "Elouise at Christmastime" aka. my all-time favorite Christmas movie. I know what your thinking- Claire is officially 6 years old and has the movie taste of a rock. Well, watch it, THEN judge. I mean, all the girls at the party LOVED it. And that got me to thinking. "Why is it that we love such a simple childs movie so much?" And thats when I figured it out. The secret to the movie is the "Bill Factor." Let me get you up to speed- This movie follows Elouise as she tries to get her best friend, Bill the waiter, and the hotel heiress, Rachel to get together. But as any good romance is, the situation is complicated. Now, I'm not here to spoil plots, only commentate. So, as I was saying- The character of Bill is so very special in the film. Because as I watched last night, I realized that Bill is real. He isn't a vampire, or a werwolf; a multi-million dollar doctor, or a rich buisnessman that lives in Alaska. He is just a waiter at the plaza with a big heart for the people he loves. He's the type of person that you would want to be with just because he is pure quirky fun. And also, in the movie, Bill is chilverous (Helping Rachel with her coat, giving her a hand down from the piano/stage...) and genuinely more concerned about other people's happiness than his own. He is funny, bold, and very patient with kids. And to top it off, he can sing and dance his bright red socks off. All he needs now is an accent, and he would literally be perfect! Now of course, Bill's character wouldn't be so loveable if it weren't for the talent behind him. He is played by one of the most talented, spirited, and amazing Broadway actors of all time, Gavin Creel. Gavin is able to bring this character to life on so many levels. I'm sure many of you are asking, what is the pointof talking about this- and actually, I have several. First, it goes to show the joy a simple kids movie can bring. Second, it goes to show that regular guys are pretty nifty after all. And Third, and most importantly, girls would be much better off looking for their own Bill in the world verses dating the jerk or the vampire. And you can take THAT to the bank!

Tis the Season

I SURVIVED!!! Exams are over, papers are done, and I'm on break! Seriously, though- it is the best feeling in the world. Currently, I'm sitting by the Christmas tree in my house enjoying some hot chocolate and being totally unproductive. I know! Its like I jumped right off of a hallmark card. Its raining/sleeting outside. Not necessarily the most magical weather, but they have forecasted snow for next week, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed... Gosh, I just love Christmas. This time of year is truly special. Not only is it time to celebrate the birth of Jesus, my king, but also its a time for family, friends, and just pure celebration. Now before you throw up from the over-exuding glee coming from this particular blogger, consider the source. I JUST got onto Christmas Vacation. So just give me a break, ok? Play along. Go grab yourself a big cup of coca, turn on pandora to the holiday music stream, and go sit by the Christmas tree...if that doesn't turn you" Merry and Bright", than nothing will. You might as well be called Scrooge.

A Giving Heart

Its been a few days since I've posted, but what can I say? Its been crazy here in the Hilton house with everything going on. So, do not fear blog readers! I am still alive...in fact I am alive and kickin' after today's 32 meeting. For those of you that don't know, a few junior girls including myself started a club at the beginning of the year that challenges CCS students to live for Christ everyday. It includes accountability, outreach (both in and out of school), and lots of other good stuff based on Job 32. If your really curious, read it! But anyway, as far as today goes- at last weeks meeting, I called the group with the lesson of patience and also asked members to donate money to a local-ish charity called Heartworks. And to be honest, I didn't have a clue what would happen. Because, if we're being honest, its the holidays. Money is flowing into presents, trips, and of course the necessary Starbucks run. So I was very proud/excited/uplifted when our group donated a good amount of money today at our follow up meeting. I mean, these kids in 32 really get it- they totally acknowledge the reason for the season and gave with open hearts. I am so humbled by the giving spirits of people who haven't even volunteered at Heartworks personally. I just know the money is going to go to a good cause, and CAN'T WAIT to give it to them. But really, it was such an uplifting thing, especially on a day that wasn't necessarily the best. So I hope that you have been inspired by the self-less-ness of my awesome peers like I have been today. And Happy Friday :)

Merry Christmas?

Its that time again! Hot chocolate. Gingerbread houses. The same 8 songs playing on a loop on the radio. Stores looking all pretty. Candles in the window. Commercials all involve Santa. Snow is practically tangible in the air. Yes my friends, the holidays are practically upon us. And I am so excited! But wait...the early present? End of term projects. End of term performances. Correction deadlines. Forms that need signing. Exam review guides. Last minute learning. Tests. Quizzes. PSAT scores. Essays....yeah. Merry Christmas.