The thoughts that have arisen

Darling friends and family,

Okay my friends. I know. Too long of gaps between posts.  I will admit I get overwhelmed. But I am just frustrated right now, and have been the past few days BECAUSE I cannot figure out for the life of me how to copy and paste onto this dang thing. It's so annoying. Why is something so easy, so hard with this? Bloggers! Help! :)

But on another note, I will fill you in a little. Went to a festival thingy with Kiley, it was cute and fun, and we ate cheese dip at another restaurant. I think this is my....um...fifth place to try cheese dip. My favourites thus far are at Canon Grill, and this Mexican place I've been twice with Kiley and KK. So.... Canada, do you have cheese dip? Will you let me down with my new love? Separate me from this amazing creation from God!!?!? Oh, other food I love!!! Besides the most amazing smoothie I had here, refer back to old post, I have tasted the most incredible soft ice cream that I think man-kind has come up with. Apparently, it is made from custard? Not regular ice cream, not frozen yogurt, but a mixture of everything wonderful in this world, in my mouth. And guess what the name of the place is. Well you'll never guess so I'll just tell you: Shakey's. Apparently it's not really called Shakey's anymore because of some random Texan who got mad of their store name being stolen so it's Shake's. But I like to think I'm a part of the Kirksey's experiences from years ago, and still call it Shakey's with them. Or boxing...because we all know how much shaking and boxing looks a like. Ahem...

Other news, I am in love with  this Artist named Carey Pierce.  But I can't find his music anywhere on the Internet, which leads me to believe he is not well known. It's a shame. He sings this song, which isn't really his, but it's called When the Stars go Blue. Here is a link from a different artist singing it. I prefer Carey, but oh well. This is the best artist I can find to sing it! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qdp6MBpypKQ . Listen and fall in Love. And see if I could copy and paste, I wouldn't have had to freaking write that out :) ha. So, I've listened to Carey sing this song, probably over thirty times since last Monday. I know, obsessed. I'll get sick of it soon I think. But for now, I'm singing away to it :)

Hmm what else. I can't believe I am home NEXT Saturday. It is just insane. Seriously. I have mixed feelings about it. Like, I'm not sad to leave necessarily, but not like aching to go home either? I'm just used to my life here I suppose. So it will be weird going back to my real life. I'm not sure I'm ready to face it all again...but I sure miss my family and church a lot. Two things who would have thought I'd miss the most, HA!

But, I will say I am learning A LOT. It's crazy. When I talk to people on the phone from home every once in a while, I know they don't think I've changed. And I doubt that people here even think I'm any different. But I feel different. I am facing situations different. Just with different situations that have arisen, and I just take a different way to deal with them. I see how people act or react to things, and see how I do and don't want to be. And I'm working towards that. I am figuring out what I really like, what I want to do with my life, goals I want to set for myself, things I know I need to do, even if I've been putting it off in fear or just being lazy. I've realized things that are important to me that I didn't before. I've come up with things I want to do and learn when I am home and able with my resources there and when I have money and opportunity. 

I'm excited. And even the fact that I am excited, makes me more excited. I realized that I haven't had a bad headache really since I've been here. I think I have maybe twice, and both time I thought it was probably from lack of drinking. I just feel better in general. It's.... awesome. 

I guess I am excited to come home, and to see what is in store for me. 

There, hope you all didn't suffer too much with me and this awfully dramatic post.

Love you all!

Goodnight,

xoxoxo

Rubie

The enemy, my first kill, and a lovely day to myself!

Good evening dear friends and family and unknown stalkers,

Let me start off by saying yes, I have developed an enemy here in Arkansas. My hatred towards this, beast of a thing, came to being and has boiled so deeply in just a matter of weeks. He torments me in my bedroom as I try to sleep, whispering his sweet nothings in my ear. I try to ignore him, try pulling a pillow over my face *gasping for breathe!*, try hushing out his voice.  I have mistaken him for another, but he has shown his true face to me, only as of yesterday. One day I will take my revenge on him - show him my true feelings. There cannot be any love in this relationship. I will not surrender. I have tried to brush him aside, tried showing him just how much I adore him. That's right. It was a miss and hit situation. Who is this fiend of mine? I like to call him "the destroyer of everything that is good and pure".

 Yes, he is the recent addition to the Kirksey Hostel: A housefly.

I know, pathetic you might think, but when I smack him down, he'll know who's boss around here. The Canadian is in town, and soon, Mr. Fly - you'll know it. 

Jeez. Dang insects! Why do you all love me so?

Which leads me into my most recent kill. I was so proud of myself! There were just so many emotions; fear, anxiety, confusion, humiliation, another wave of fear, then finally, triumph, and yet again fear. But he's dead. Not yet removed from the grains off wood on the floor, but nevertheless, DEAD. Squished. Deceased. Buh bye. Here is my proof:

Here is my play by play: I spotted him crawling along the closet door. I panicked inside, we all know me and bugs right? Um...I'm Ruth by the way. Bug friend and lover..... anyways, tried to ignore it. "Ruth, leave it alone, it's a beetle, it's fine, breathe, relax, it's all good really, the world is still spinning, all is well. Mama?" Then I couldn't stop looking at it. I tried concentrating on what I was doing, but I couldn't call 911, I don't think they would appreciate my problem, and Krista was in bed, and we all know what happens when you wake people up to kill a bug: they yell. :) So, finally I got up from my chair and searched the premises for a weapon. I looked at Krista's plates displaying on her shelf (too breakable), the picture frame of us Stewart sister's (too beautiful), clothes on the table (too soft), and finally spotted it! A book! So let me tell you right now, I THREW that book with all my might on top of that poor soul. The little guy didn't have a chance. I mean, I left the book there, which Krista moved this morning I believe, but there was still fear that if I picked it up, the bug might possibly have survived, and jumped me. I didn't know if I could take him on again. But as my evidence shows he is in fact dead though. And that red stuff - I think it's paint. But for more dramatic purposes, let's says it's his guts and blood. Yup, he was juicy.

Ah, so, the lovely day to myself part. Well it was just lovely. Did I mention that already? Oh sorry, ahem, it was just splendid. Hillcrest (the area that Krista lives in) is this adorable neighbourhood, and has a cute street of stores and restaurants. Some of the stores are actual houses, so each room has stuff in it. I love it! I just shopped around, had the most AMAZING smoothie from River City Gift Co. mmmmm mmmm good. And bought myself a necklace with a charm I chose that says "Reflect" which I thought was very fitting considering the trip/ journey that I've been on. It's my most favourite thing I own at the moment actually.  Anyways, here are a few pictures that I took along my walk:

The church that is right by Krista's house. It's so beautiful. Tons of stain glass windows.

  

A bench I sat on while feeling defeated after realizing that this cafe I had REALLY wanted to go was shut down. Man, I waited too long to try it out. 

The sidewalk which lead me to Krista's house.

Ah, so I shall say goodnight here. Love you all. Especially the stalkers :)

xoxo

Goodnight,

Sugarplum

I know I know, it's about time!

Ladies and gentlemen,

I know. It's been, what? four days now without a post. I can just feel every one's disappointment and anticipation for what is to come pouring out from the mind of little miss Ruth Natasha Stewart. And I can tell you right now, there is much to pour. WARNING: Buckets and buckets of pouring may occur. Can you handle it? Can ya? Huh huh? Now, let's all take a deep breathe. In. And Out. Ah. Now let's really begin.

So, I am listening to Ice Ice Baby right now, and I am afraid that everything but my arms are moving to the music. That's right. I am dancing. With my best hipidy hop attitude. On my chair. Picture: head bobbing, lip pursing, pretty much waist up = major movement. You know it. I even just added in some major finger/ thumb pointing. I am just THAT cool. I think you should all look it up on youtube. Do it. I know you want to. Don't deny yourself the pleasure.

Ah okay, well, Montana. Glorious. Just lovely.  I will admit, it's not even hot here in Arkansas right now, but I instantly felt the humidity. I know. I'm a baby. An ice ice baby. Ah, I kill myself sometimes.  

Okay, so I actually really enjoyed all my flights home on Sunday. I was SO blessed actually! Cool thing. This girl in Helena was just super sweet and decided to take a liking on our group of four. So this was the whole ordeal: I had an extra flight compared to Krista, Choate, and Kiley. We were all to fly to Minneapolis together from Helena (Montana) and then from there I would fly to St. Louis while they would all fly to Memphis, and then from St. Louis I would fly to Memphis and meet them, where we would all take a flight to Little Rock together. BUT this girl (DORA!) noticed that I had a different flight then them, so she actually found us at the gate in Helena, gave us her number, and while we were flying called Minneapolis and got them to save me a seat on the flight straight to Memphis, so I didn't have to take the extra flight!! It was SO sweet. Thanks Dora, our helpful Helena friend.

I sat by a man who said no more then "Good Morning" to me on the flight to Minneapolis. And then between a man and women to Memphis. The lady was from Louisiana and had been flying from the morning before, because she lives half in Singapore and half in Louisiana. Anyways, the hurricane had crashed trees all around her house, thankfully not ON her house, she was going to fix it up. Oh and go to her father-in-law's 90th birthday. I love when people tell me their life stories. Seriously..that's not sarcasm.... and then on the nice 27 minute flight from Memphis to Little Rock I sat beside a couple coming back from their 25th anniversary cruise. It was sad. It was his birthday. And he had been on planes all day. With a cold. But honestly, buddy just got off a cruise. Pfft. Just kidding. We know me and my birthday. I'd still be like what is this.....but anyways I learned their life story too. And I realized that I talked about things that I really had NO idea what I was talking about. I kept thinking, ah...does this lady see through me? I'm a fraud! A fraud!! *said with as much dramatic effects as I could muster up* We talked about natural disasters, gas prices, the states and the places she went on her cruise. The whole time I'm like mmhm, as if I knew these places, how high the gas prices really were (gallon? Um... even when her husband converted for me, I was still lost), and what it was like to ride a motorcycle with a puppy dog in between two people. 

So many life experiences I have yet to experience. Common now! I wanna ride a motorcycle with a man... my age group ish....(sorry dad and Dean) heh heh. And I need to learn my geography better. Seriously. I still can't picture where I even am on a map. South...of Canada. Wow, brilliant. I know :) I amaze myself sometimes even. As for natural disasters. It would be nice to not have to experience one. Even though I still want to see a tornado someday. Of course, from a distance. And one that didn't destroy anything. I'm afraid the only tornado I'm ever going to see is one of dust in a see-through vacuum, or the little water one that forms when the water drains from the bathtub, even though that's a cyclone technically. But who really wants to be so technical. JEEZ. Give me a break! Dangit.

Anyways, when we got home it smelt really bad in the house. Bad bad food. I had to throw away a salad that was...well....brown and kinda runny/gooey if that makes sense. But after chucking away A LOT of food, and doing a lot of laundry, the house finally smelt good. This was confirmed from Krista walking at lunch, saying "Ugh, it stinks" to coming home AFTER work saying" MMM WOW, it smells great". Two thumbs up for TIDE. Oh Tide. My friend Tide.

Anyways, I am tired. And this really didn't do justice to the Montana trip. Maybe I will write tomorrow. But I hope you filled even a little bit of your bucket with information from RuBoo (Kiley has been calling me the strangest, adorable things.)

El Fin.

xoxo

Goodnight my lovely readers,

RuRu

They're here

Dear North America,

Steph and Adam got here yesterday. Krista and Steph instantly hit it off. They even looked exactly the same...crazy. And Adam and Krista really hit it off too. I think they all are enjoying each other's company :) And Steph brought me a scarf and vitamin C. Vitamin C will come in handy for sure... and I'll cross my fingers for cold weather for the scarf :) If not, I'll just have a cute scarf when I get home!

On another note. It was FREEZING last night in the living room. And at about five this morning it was discovered that the window was open. This also happened to Choate who was freezing in the motel room in East Glacier Monday night, and the whole night the window was open. Dear Lord :)

xoxo

Ruffalo

Glacier National Park

To my lovely North Americans,

We went to Glacier National Park on Monday! It took us a long time to finally get out of the door, and even longer to actually get into the park! There was road construction for a bit and Krista hated driving so slow...it was quite the experience. Five of us smushed in a little car! And Jami told us to dress warmly because it was going to be cold...yeah it defiantly wasn't cold....in the end I think everyone had most of their layers off. :) I mean being smushed in the car is one thing but being smushed in a car with BO, yeah  not pretty (thank goodness that the layers came off before any major sweating occurred). It was a fun drive though, we all sang and danced and took pictures (sorry those ones are on Kiley's camera and we don't have the cord!!). 

It was really beautiful. Kiley kept saying "beautiful, beautiful, beautiful, your absolutely beautiful" as if the mountains could hear it. It was really cute! And it was Andrew's first time in these types of mountains so I think he really enjoyed it too!!

We ate at a cute Mexican restaurant in East Glaciers and got a crudy little hotel room. We had one bed and an air mattress and then Jami ended up sleeping on a little roll out foamie type thing. Choate and Jami both have colds though ( I think I gave it to them? :() and we were all on Choate's case about snoring (he's been snoring pretty loud since we got to Montana) but it ended up Jami snored. Her poor little throat!! Oh! There was a skylight thing in the bathroom and Kiley, Jami and I kept joking about how scary it would be if someone climbed on the roof and was staring down at you, especially in the night with a flashlight! I considered doing it to Krista... but we decided the screaming would scare the neighbours :) But we made it through the night and got up and outta there early the next morning.

We went to this cute cafe run by hippies I think (saved Karolina a seat!!!) and had breakfast. I was super good!! Great way to start the day off! Then we went to "Many Glaciers" which I think from what I heard was every one's favourite. You can't tell really by the pictures but fall is arriving and gracing us with her beauty! It was gorgeous. I love it! At first I didn't want to do more driving but it was totally worth it. 

Funny thing. We were something like 6 miles from the Canadian boarder and Choate and Kiley wanted to see what Canada look liked, so we actually drove to the boarder. Or as close as we could without actually having to talk to anyone! I thought it was so funny. I left two weeks ago, to Arkansas and then on Tuesday I was something like four, five hours from my house. I sent my love vibes to everyone back home. Did you feel em? :)

Anyways it was a fun little outing. I did get sick of being in the car at times but it was fine. Choate REALLY wanted to see a bear and a moose (he did see mountain sheep and a ram) and I was searching the woods as we drove by but no such luck. It was actually a little sad I will admit. I really hope he gets to see them before we leave the North.

Anyways, today Stephanie and Adam get here. I cannot wait to see them. Jami has been cleaning the house while babysitting with Kiley and Krista and Andrew are out doing laundry at at a laundry-mat. I'm waiting for towels so I can shower. My hair can actually stick straight out. Ew, eh? 

Anyways, love you all! Hope your enjoying the fall as much as I am. God's little gift before the cold hits us all!

xoxox

Rut (Jami's little girl that she is babysitting called me Rut with her lips sticking STRAIGHT out:))

Helena, oh my lovely Helena....

Dear Canada and my fellow Americans,

Yesterday was a day of wandering around the town and hanging out with everyone. It was nice and relaxing. Some drama ... but overall a really enjoyable day.

We are heading off to Glacier National Park in about...five minutes so I will leave you off with some pictures of Helena that I took yesterday while we were getting our little tour de Helena.

Love,

The roof the roof the roof is on fire

xo

The celeb and her PA off to Montana

Lovely Canada,

Hope everyone is having a great weekend thus far!!

So me and Kiley spent Friday being lazy, taking forever to pack and finally going to the airport. Me and Kiley beat the system with the NorthWest Airlines instead of paying $30 for two bags we put all our stuff in ONE bag and only paid $15. I know....we beat down The Man. All cheers and applauds please be held off until I am in your presence.

So, some little airport experiences.....well firstly, apparently I am a celebrity? This guy at Burger King in the airport said "You look like a celebrity.." and I was like "wha?" it was pretty funny. And then they brought my food to my table but made Kiley go up and get hers. From there the celebrity was formed and Kiley, my PA (personal assistant) followed me everywhere. Her new name is "Mr. Charles Weathersbee". It sounded like a servants name...

Anyways, when we were sitting at our gate Kiley went to the bathroom (*refer back to bathroom for another new insight of the south) and this old couple beside me leaned over and asked if I was from Hawaii. I was like "wha?" once again. And she said since I had Hawaiian do-dads, such as the print on my new sandals and my purse, she was wondering if I could possibly know her daughter who lives there with her children. Canada, it is not only Americans who think that if your Canadian you're going to know another random Canadian, apparently they think if you live in another state aka Hawaii you might know their family? HA! Anyways, I said, no I'm from Canada. Dum dum dum...I think they were disappointed. Dangit. 

So, since I was called a celebrity and asked if I was from Hawaii Kiley thought she should call me Maui, Maui lulu. So we were Maui lulu and Mr. Charles Weathersbee for that day.... it was good times okay? :)

* Reference back to bathroom story: Well, I had to pee also, so when I went into the washroom, to my surprise there was a sign that said "Please swipe hand in front of laser and NEW plastic sheet will dispense" I was like "wha?" and then proceeded as directed. I didn't even see this plastic sheet. Well! There was plastic on the seat. Like wrapped around it or something and it totally moved! Like rotated in a circular motion. It was the weirdest craziest thing I tell ya. Craziest!! (Maybe I don't get out much? But my mind was blown. Blown!!): End of bathroom reference.

We took three different planes to Helena, Montana, and seriously Minneapolis was the BIGGEST airport that I have ever been in. Seriously, London Heathrow? Pfft... it took us over 30 minutes to get across the airport to our new terminal. This included a shuttle bus, about one million moving sidewalks, escalators and stairs, and walking. Lots of walking. It was a super fun time I tell ya. Super fun.

And on our last flight, Kiley told me about her India experience and then we pretend sang and danced to my i pod. Best part was when I was playing air banjo and Kiley all of the sudden started tap dancing on the airplane. She was "ready to run". :)

So. All this leads up to the fact that I am in Montana. It is lovely. The air is crisp. Reminds me of BC. Oh BC. So Jamie made breakfast this morning with the help of ... I think Andrew and Krista? It was fabulous! 

Here are a few pictures of their adorable house:

Swiss = Sister

To end this posting, last night was SO cold! Honestly, we didn't have a sheet on the air mattress and so there were three of us! Spooning. It was quite a site. We all had hoodies on and socks and were wrapped up in cocoon of one blanket each, and yeah. Tonight we will plan better. And put a sheet down!!!!!!

Well, have a wonderful Saturday Canada,

xoxo

Maui lulu

Darling Canada,

How are you all doing? I'm swell just swell. I think I am on the tail-end of this cold. As many people have been putting it, I am 'draining' now. HA! So nasty.....

Anyways, I slept over at Jessica Brown's last night. It was fun. We went for dinner with Bill (her husband) and ate Flaming Cheese! They gave us this cheese dish and the server lit it on fire. Yes, it was very impressive. And then she kicked Bill out of their bed and me and her slept together, and ended up talking in her bed for like 3.5 hours and totally missed watching our movie :) Oh well!

Anyways, I keep hearing my blog entries are too long. What is this people? :) lol. I'm just kidding. I'll just leave you when some pictures from Jessica's house. I felt like I woke up in a resort. Most comfortable bed. And beautiful view!

They live outside of Little Rock about 45 mins, in a place called Conway (Little Rock is where Krista lives fyi) but they actually live a little outside Conway in the country. They built their house and it is absolutely GORGEOUS! Here is a picture of the inside. Everything that looks pink is actually like dark red? No idea what is up with the colouring. Pretty random.

Anyways, two more things. I met this little girl named Miley who is Jessica's co-workers little girl, and she was adorable. Anyways she asked me if I have ever pet a penguin! How adorable eh? :)

AND Montana here I come! Kk and Andrew left today and me and Kiley head out tomorrow. Can't wait! 

Ah, love you all! Have a great weekend.

xoxox

Rutillia

Oh what a night....

Dear dear Canada,

Well, all I can say is that we had a pose off. Yes that is right. America's Next Top Model inspired us! It was fantastic..... I actually had to run to the bathroom at one point I was laughing so hard at the Kirksey sisters.

Oh man. It was good times. Here are a few samples of the pose off:

Yes, it was hilarious. We defiantly learned from Tyra Banks. It's all in the eyes. Do not hide your neck. Emotion, emotion... HA! Yeah... well by our pictures I know, we didn't really follow her rules but come on, they did show off that shoe and bottle pretty well I'd say :) I love how KK is on the piano and Kiley on the table. Seriously. Priceless!!

Also, on another note, Kiley bought my sandals! I have Tevas now. Here is a picture of my lovely feet:

Anyways, I am going to Jessica's to sleepover tonight. Pretty excited about that!! She just arrived so I better go! 

Love you all,

xoxo

Rutta

Mmmm my shirt and sheets smell like TIDE!

My Darling Canada,

Well I shall admit that I do love Tide. I know I know, we can't use stuff like that cause Dad is allergic to the perfumes or something, but I shall treasure my clothes and sheets smelling lovely until I return home. Honestly, there is just something about the smell of clean clothes. I sound like a desperate housewife I think, but ever since I was little I think I have always loved the smell of laundry detergent, and envied everyone I was around and hugged when their clothes smelled so good. Mmmmm... (ahh.... I was deprived as a child. HA!)

So, today. Really super relaxed. I was up at six cause of the dog, and finally at seven crawled into bed with Krista. As soon as I walked in the room she said "it's not any better in here" and I said "I don't care, it will be" and she said "crawl in baby". I am pretty sure it was baby. Maybe babe. Anyways, this story isn't about the dog this time, even though it is still annoying and Krista, Kiley, and I jokingly fought over who had to sleep in the noisy dog room ( I graciously said since they have to work I'd suffer... I know, I am just the nicest person ever.... gag!), this story is about the word baby. I think it is the cutest thing ever. Heather said to me at the tailgate party also. She said "Oh I'm sorry baby, I would have made one if I'd known you were ready". I can honestly say that I don't ever remember anyone calling me baby before (girls at least :) heh heh). But it wasn't creepy or something, it was very endearing. It came so naturally out of their mouths... I loved it. So Canada, watch out, I just may be calling one of YOU baby in the near future, as a symbol of my affection and devotion. 

Today was a very good day of talking and visiting. Jami Kirksey's best friend Mandy was over for dinner on Sunday night, and asked if I wanted to have lunch with her today. So she came over at 11:30 and was here till almost two! We had such a great chat. It was one of those moments where you meet someone and love them right off that bat. I think we poured out our life stories to each other over lunch. LOL. I love her to bits already. And as soon as she left Kiley came home, literally within ten minutes. And me and her hung out till Krista came home and joined us. It's the same thing with Kiley. I feel like I've known her forever.  We had a cute moment, probably not to her knowledge, but at one point we were both laying on the couch with our heads in the middle and feet in opposite directions, just watching TV.  I just remember meeting her back in May for a only a few hours and being SO sad when we departed I think I teared up, and I thought it was the strangest thing ever because I had met her for like 3 hours. And now, it feels strange that I have only seen her now, six days in my whole life, and it's the same thing, I love her to bits.

I think it will be really interesting to see all the Kirksey sister's together (and finally meeting Jami, who I have no doubt I will love just as much) with me and Stephanie. Heather would make it complete if only she were coming too. I can't wait!

Anyways, I have thought about a lot of things today. It's been really interesting how views change, people influence you, help you to grow, raise up thoughts in your mind, inspire you to do things you could never have thought of doing. I've thought lots about relationships back home and here, and where I want to be, and where I am at. It's actually been a little emotional, but how boring would life be without emotions right? Anyways, maybe this trip will actually help to find a few things I've been looking for! Who knows what is in store right? :)

Anyways, let me leave you off with a picture. These Americans. They don't take their shoes off in the house! So, here are my sandals. Placed nicely at the front door, and all by their lonely selves I might add. 

Love always,

xoxo

Rufulufus

The dog, bugs, and my new room!

Dear Canada,

I hope you all had a great weekend and a terrific day back at work. Did ya?

Today was pretty relaxed. I've been getting worse (sickness) though, which is unfortunate, but I'm still out doing stuff. Oh well. Krista and Jess said I sound stuffed up and my voice is lower. LOL, so I sound even more like a man, yay! I stayed in bed pretty late....which leads me to this little story.

The house beside us is empty. Not only empty but that backyard looks like a jungle. It's so overgrown and a little scary looking. Something that you would start chanting "Lions, and tigers and bears, oh my" when entering....

Anyways, there is this little puppy trapped in the backyard!!!! It whines 24/7 and I got a little peak of it, and it's eyes were all white and nasty looking, and it just looked neglected. We can't even tell if it has food and water. So Krista has thrown over turkey slices a few times which it thankfully eats. But this morning, it seriously sounded like someone was killing it. My windows aren't very sound proof, and the puppy is right behind my window which my head is closest to. So, I got up at like eight after not being able to sleep very well for a few hours from the dogs whining, and went into Krista's bed in the front of the house.  I could still hear the dog, but not as loud.

I mean I feel awful for the dog. I keep telling Krista to call the pet people, to come save the dog, but she said she saw a car in the driveway at lunch. I still think something needs to be done. The dog is not barking normal sounding barks, this is like gut wrenching whining. I've never heard anything like it before. It's sooooo sad. Yet, annoying as ..... hello operator, give me number nine...

Also, side note: There are some NASTY beetles here in Little Rock. Jess, KK, and I went to a movie tonight and when we got home there were beetles crawling on her house. And on the sidewalk. It's just... disgusting. I saw one crawling on my wall in my room Saturday night, and it was never killed. Needless the say, I have been a little paranoid since. Honestly, if I feel something one day and look at there is a freaking beetle crawling on me, I can't say that I won't pack my bags and leave immediately. Ugh, just the thought makes me shiver. Honestly, I have been really good with bugs lately. I don't freak out like I used to. But when a beetle that looks like a freaking cockroach is crawling in the house, AH!

So yeah. There is my little rant on the bug situation. Is there even bugs in Edmonton this time of year? 

Anyways, it was a good day. Slow. Relaxing. I am looking forward to days where I have nothing at all planned. Not sure if that is going to be happening until....after Montana, but that's okay. I have a million books to read still, but I think they are all stories with love in them, and I really don't need love books right now. But anyways, Krista cut me a key tonight, so I can officially leave the house. Which will be nice. Go explore a little!!!!

To finish this letter, look at my new room! Isn't it so cute. That is Marydell sleeping on my bed!

Anyways goodnight my loves,

xoxo

Rufus

And then there were Hogs, EVERYWHERE!

My dearest Canada,

Well now. I have had quite the experience thankyouvery much. 

Where do I even begin?? Hmmm...let's see. Saturday was the tailgate party and the football game. There was red EVERYWHERE. And I'm not talking blood, I'm talking red hogs, hats, shirts, bbqs, signs, stickers, chairs, tents, tattoos, Seriously.....everything that you could make red, was. And EVERYWHERE!

(Yes we have matching shirts!)

So, Andrew Choate was the first to come to the house, and me and him went driving around looking for cigars for him, because he had his once-in-the-blue-moon craving for tobacco, and so we scavenged the streets of Little Rock looking for a shop that sold some without going too far (which we ended up going 'too far', ha!) and on the drive, I got my sneak peak of what was about to hit me. 

The hog phenomena. 

Now, I'm talking babies, toddlers, teenagers, grandparents, every single age group, race, class etc... were a part of this craziness. This outbreak. This epidemic. 

Back at the Kirksey Hostel, KK(Krista) was charging people $10 to park in her yard/driveway (it was $20 in most places), so she made a little money with the help of Heather of course. I think Heather may have a calling to be a sales person. I have a feeling she could sell anything put in front of her and make a profit! I heard she sold cruise tickets, standing off of KK's driveway (correct?)!!LOL. 

Then the real magic began..... 

We walked to the golf course, which was beside the stadium, which did not look like a golf course at all. It was one giant bbq/ party. Drunk fans were everywhere. I sorta felt like I was in Canada, red and white everywhere, but then....yeah no. :) We wandered a bit and it was loud, crowded and hot! Defiantly an experience.......but the real experience for me was inside the stadium.

It was seriously a sea of red and white. 50,000 Arkansas Hogs fans!!! I didn't understand what was going on in the first half at all. I honestly have never understood football. Even when I had to play in gym, I didn't get the rules, and there were no lines painted on the ground or anything...I'm like ten yard? What? 

BUT, half time, and the marching band. Totally something from a movie. I do not lie! There were cheerleaders, gymnastics, baton twirlers, mascots, the band of course, flag people, it was so crazy! And the crowd cheering! 

And the famous call of the hogs....seriously my friends and family, even grown men do this....:)

Whoooooo, PIG SOOIE

Whoooooo , PIG SOOIE

Whoooooo, PIG SOOIE

RAZORBACKS!!

      

AHAHAHAH, it was hilarious! By the third quarter I started to sorta get the game, and by the fourth, I was screaming with everyone else " GET HIM DOWN!!!!!!", "WHAT ARE YOU DOING!!!!", "NOOOOOO". Aha. I felt, like a true razorback fan. Even though Choate did say "sometimes it's hard to be a razorback fan", I suppose just the same as we would say "sometimes it hard to be an oilers fan"....sometimes they just let you down. LOL. But I'm pleased to announce that, yes, we won! By one point, but nevertheless, we won. I think my little Canadian cheering is what pulled us through at the end. Ha!

But I felt like it was Remember the titans (except college football not high school)/ cross Drumline? It was quite the experience I tell ya. Something never to be forgotten.... I kinda like football now. LOL. We'll see if it sticks once I'm back home... but I think it might have just grown on me :) Anyways, it was a ton of fun! And I got all the hand gestures down by the end of the night...lol. 

Sunday:

Well, I will admit, I was a little hesitant to go to Krista and Kiley's church called Church of Christ. It was a church where they have no instruments. Which sounds so strange to me. But I will admit. It was REALLY beautiful. There were a million harmonies going on at once and everything just blended so well. And considering how I usually have to sing harmonies, I was very impressed that all these people could mesh so well with each other. Oh, and ahem, their pews were... comfortable! Wow, would you have ever thought? LOL.

I did miss not singing tonight, and my home church. It's silly, because it's one week, but I did miss it. My throat hurts so bad, I don't think I could have sang even if I tried though. Oh well. But I heard it went well, and that's all that matters :) 

Next Sunday I'll be in Montana, how crazy is that!! This trip is going so fast, yet so slow. I feel like I've been here for a long time, but not at the same time. Maybe its more I'm feeling more at home, not so much a visitor anymore?? I'm not sure lol.And it's been nice to put faces with stories. :)

I found out tonight that I am a nap disturber. So I want to say sorry to all of you that I have tried to nap with, and ended up talking (Stephanie, Evanna...anyone else?). I guess I'm just Miss Chatty Chatterson. Who knew?

Agh, well love you all. Oh and just so you know that I DO love you Karolina, What time shall I meet you this week for our movie date? ;)

xoxox

Goodnight Canada,

RuthieStewart

Irritated tonsils and grocery shopping

Dear Canada,

Let me start off with a picture from my first night here in Arkansas. This was right after I discovered that somehow the lid to my hairspray fell off in the Ziploc bag, and my once full-to-the-top bottle of hairspray was completely empty and the Ziploc bag including my suitcase was full of it. So.... herbal essence filled not only my nostrils, but the room and also made everything sticky. Oh the joy's of travelling. 

On the way home: Double up on those Ziplocs baby.

So. I have the sorest throat ever! What is wrong with me? Seriously....

All my healing powers consist of Halls Vitamin C, some random drug store called Walgreens or something Cough drops things that make my tongue numb (I was with Miss. Dr. Kiley Kirksey and since she said they were A-OK, I was all over it), and some strange tasting chamomile tea (recommended by not Dr, nor Miss, but Mrs. Stephanie Jongsma). So.... although my throat screams every time I swallow, it's bound to get better. Right?

So, my day. Well, I am pleased to announce that after four and a half months, I have gotten my hair cut. I know it's amazing. But, I gotta try to impress the Americans. And fixin' my hair was top on my list. So, Krista hooked me up with Angie her hair dresser, whom I adore now, and she got me all ready for tomorrow and the call of the hogs. 

Call of the hogs; well I have yet to experience this myself, but I am pretty sure it consists of some magic finger movements, so Whoooooo - ing, and some PIG SOOIE. LOL. 

Oh, and the hogs are their university team football. They are called the Razor backs. I already have a hat from Krista, and some sort of beer (I mean, pop) can holder thing from Mrs. Jessica Brown's mama from when we were here in May. I did leave that in Canada though. Dang-it. I guess I just won't fully blend in. :) They did tell me I had to wear some hog nose thing however, to fully achieve this mad-mans idea of 'blending in'. Although Kiley (thank you btw!) informed me this was a joke. Thank the Lord! 

Amen.

Anyways, I spent the afternoon in the hair salon, and with Krista's sister Kiley. We had a "secret from Krista" date, which consisted of fine cuisine (pizza), the thousand villages store (sorry, I can't remember the name!?!?!) and some bath shop. For my fellow Edmontonians, picture a day on Whyte Ave. Anyways it was fun. And then we returned home to sunshine and the big sister sitting on the porch waiting :)  

Also, I am officially a resident of the Kirksey Hostel. Me and Krista went grocery shopping!! and  then came home to watch "A Time to Kill", with Matthew McConaughey, Sandra Bullock, and Samuel L. Jackson. It was good. We cried. 

Anyways, it's been really good. We're having a bunch of people over for the tailgate party before the football game. They even got me a shirt for the game! So, I have to get up early because I want to clean my bathroom, and my room...yeah..it already looks like my room at home. All my clothes are on the floor ( I know, so proud of me right mom? :))

Agh, so I need to go to bed if I'm going to be up for eight or nine. Oh dear.

Anyways I hope all ya'll are having a great Friday and an awesome weekend a head of you!

xoxox

rs

4905 Lee Avenue = My new home

To my dearest Canada,

Good news: I have yet to whip out the Imodium. No explosive diarrhea quite yet. I know. You are all relieved. I appreciate the support.

Flights: Good. Kinda loud, American thing? ha!. Danced in my seat a little on the second flight...hope I didn't offend any southerners on the flight...I think the most exciting thing that happened was an old lady got a nose bleed. But I didn't see. So no I really didn't get to experience the excitement there. OH! However, this lady lost her hearing (air pressure?)....I gave her gum to help. I don't think it did though. She was still deaf when I left....

Weather: It's been rainy. I love it. Not hot at all! It's pretty much...perfect weather :) It's still humid... I have a feeling there is no such thing as 'not-humid' down here?

An old realization resurfaced again today though: Ruth's hair + humidity = the makings of an fro.

I know. Of course I mention my hair....but seriously.... a fro.

Only thing that sucks about the weather is a) it makes my toilet water sorta yellow? No, it's not that I forget to flush every time! There's been flooding...and something to do with the pipes...ask Krista. b) I can't sit out on her porch swing cause I think it, and the pillows are wet. That shall be top priority on my list. Even if I have to take an extensive cord with my blow drier, and dry that sucker up, it will happen. I will sit on that swing. I will!

Oh, another thing. This happens every time. Me and Krista will literally sit there forever going over words that the other person says weird. I mean, come on now. I do not have an accent. At all... (pants, anyone?) but today, Krista discovered the word booger. I guess it should be pronounced bugger....ah...yeah. They say "You got a bugs in your nose". Bugs? mmhmm..... LOL. She called not only Heather but Stephanie and Adam to confirm I wasn't making it up, and then proceeded with calling all her friends so they could laugh at me... this is going to be a long month and a half....ahah. I can't get enough of their accents though. It gets me every time.

This old country man said howdy, thank you ma'am to me today. I almost peed with delight. Come on, cutest thing ever!

Anyways, from the Spanish guy giving me ice water in Denver, to the Lady Antebellum concert tonight (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUhsKSIHKKo), it's been a good trip thus far. One night and one day :)

I get my hair cut tomorrow. Hopefully Angie, Krista's girl, understands my Yankee talk and cuts it right :) Or maybe that i understand her if she asks me questions...oh dear.

Ah, well goodnight Canada, I am off to my new bed. Sweet dreams,

xoxo

rs