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Post by celticbear on Jul 14, 2012 20:26:41 GMT -5
I'm glad the others saw the Kiss! And I bet Neil has been thinking of Meg this entire time and will REMEMBER HER AND THAT KISS! Hope the guys get their chance to meet the ladies of CT!
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Post by celticsweetheart on Jul 14, 2012 22:17:06 GMT -5
I give everyone a copy of their pictures that were on my camera. Instead of buying everyone a Christmas gift this yeah I decide to put my artistic talents to work. I engage the help of a couple students from one of my classes to help me with my projects. I want to take the photos I took of our trip to Atlanta and turn them into priceless works of art but I'm not sure how to do it. So with the help of two older students who are a bit more experienced than I, we meet to see what type of art I can create.
I take the five candid photos of my friends that I've chosen along with anything I feel might be of some use to an empty classroom, where we have decided to meet. I want this to be a secret so I have to do it far away from the apartment so as to not arouse suspicion. I place the five photos down in front of my two assistants to see what I'm working with. One of the assistants is a specialist in ceramics while the other specializes in mixed media. I figure that by combing the two experienced individuals along with my limited knowledge maybe something great will emerge.
Jan who was in my ceramics class as a TA quickly scans the photos and chooses two. Rick who is also a TA in one of my art classes asks if I have more pictures of the remaining three friends. I tell him I have a bunch I just need to get them developed. Together the three of us map out a plant to create something so utterly beautiful that I have a hard time keeping my frequent trips into town to buy art supplies.
The semester is nearing to a close but since both of the helpers are TA's they will still have access to the classrooms in the area where the art classes normally meet. At our next meeting I had purchased a box of white earthenware clay, a bunch of colorful papers and tissues in various sizes, three mounting boards along with more photos of Kieran, Tony and Shelia.
The next meeting took place in the ceramics lab which housed six pottery wheels, a huge slab roller, and a bunch of work tables and stools. Along one wall are shelves to place pieces of wet clay so they can dry and on the other wall there are various containors of glaze. In the front of the classroom there are two manual wheels used for making improvements to dried projects.
Jan has suggested that I make a plaque for one of the pictures. She thinks that if I take a slab of clay, cut out a unique shape and stamp the surface then make a couple of legs that are almost the length which I will adhere to the back of the plaque. I get the face of the plaque done then I go to work on the legs which will help the plaque double as either a trivet or as a wall hanging. The hardest thing is making sure what is added to the back has enough slip to glue the two pieces together. Once I've added the two pieces to the back I sit the plaque on a bat and place it on the shelf to dry. Jan puts a label on the bat that says TA project do not touch.
It kinda seems weird for Rick to be in the ceramics lab, but he's there to help with the other project to be done in clay. His specialty is mixed media but he has done extensive projects in clay as well. He wants me to make a vase big enough for the photo. It's a good thing I have on my work clothes cause I always get dirty when I mess with the wheel. There is a 50/50 chance of what I make on the wheel to turn out so I ask both Jan and Rick for help. I don't want to waste all the clay I bought on making one vase. It takes a couple tries but eventually I end up with something that is both unique in its shape as well as large enough for the photo that will eventually be placed on its surface.
Jan and Rick both check out the vase to make sure that it doesn't have any bubbles. Bubbles are the things that cause something so beautiful to crack during the initial firing. Now that it has passed the inspection with flying colors I place it on a bat which Jan as also marked TA project do not touch. It is that label on both bats which will insure that my pieces don't get thrown out besides it won't take long for them to dry. Jan and I will come back in two days to check the progress because that will be the right time to sign my work and to make any carvings into the surface of items.
Today is a working lunch so we head to another empty room to work on the other three projects. Jan is more familiar with clay and ceramics but stay to offer a hand as well as lend an eye or two to the creative process. I place all the items Rick has asked me to purchase or to bring in along with the three original pics of my friends I had the at the first meeting. The idea is to create a collage to be centered around the main photograph. He sketches out the idea so I can sorta have a visual of what it will look like. He shows me one he did for his mom one year. It's really amazing, I just hope mine look that good.
I place the board everything will be affixed to down then I place the main photo directly in the center. Then moving around the center piece I add more pictures of the subject, next we add pieces of color tissue and paper under each photo. Eventually everything around the center photo will be cropped. The idea is make sure all the white space is filled in with something, either a picture or bits of colored paper or tissue.
Once each board is filled a list is created of what paper goes with what picture. Tomorrow we will start on the first collage which really won't take that long because the hardest part will have been done today. After the list is done we break for lunch. It's really been a long day, working with clay first then mixed media of pictures, tissues and colored papers. I head back to the apartment after lunch. I'm really glad I found two people to help me out. I never could have done this on my own it would have ended in disaster.
Classes have officially ended now its the coveted study period where all students are suppose to be studying for their finals. My finals aren't too difficult except for accounting. I go to my tutor on Tuesday afternoon. This week we are working on preparation for the final exam which I've heard is grueling especially for non business majors. That was one final I was not looking forward to taking. It's a good thing my tutor had this teacher before so he knows what will probably be included covered in the exam.
After finals were over with I was able to concentrate on finishing my Christmas presents. The two ceramic pieces just needed to be glazed. I still don't know how I'm suppose to affix the picture to each piece but that's why Jan is helping me. It didn't take that long for me to finish the collage pieces that Rick was helping me with. Even though the pieces were finished they still needed to be framed. I bought the frame kit that Rick suggested I purchase so the next time I met him we framed each board and then I carefully wrapped them Christmas paper.
I decided not to temp during Christmas break instead I picked up more hours at the gallery. I went from working the front desk to giving guided tours. A tour guide was paid a little more than a person working the front desk. I needed more money for the upcoming CT concert in March. I loved working at the gallery everyone was so relaxed unlike when I work at the advertising agency. My ceramic projects were just about ready to be packaged and placed under the Christmas tree. I'd already received my package from home. My parents called every other week prior to sending the package. They tried to get me to come home but I needed to stay here and work. I had things I needed and wanted but if I went home I'd not have enough money to go see CT in March let alone save some money for when we went to Belfast.
This Christmas we chose to put a price limit on gifts. We didn't draw names like last year. They had a really nice party at the gallery for its employees. Our Christmas Day celebration was going to be really good this year. We were going to have a spiral sliced ham instead of a turkey. We were also going to have two more guests at the table this year as well. I thought the only way to thank both Jan and Rick for their help was inviting them to our annual Christmas Dinner party.
Around noon on Christmas morning the six of us gathered around our tree to open presents. Kieran and Tony had already opened the gifts they got from their parents as did Stacey and Shelia. Me and Amanda waited until Christmas to open the presents we got from our families. I had two boxes one from my family in Knoxville and one from my sister in Wisconsin. Amanda had a box from her parents and a box from her grandparents. She was lucky my grandparents were both dead.
After we opened the gifts from our families I then went into my little speech about how I wanted everyone to open the gifts from me first. As I had everyone their gift I got my camera ready cause this would be the perfect time to get some good candid photos of my friends. I went from one person to the next snapping pictures. The next set of photos I took were of each person admiring what was on the inside. The room went quiet, everyone was speechless. Someone said there was no way I spent ten dollars or less on their gift. I explained that probably a total of 45 dollars total but that was just an educated guess.
The looks on all of their faces was priceless and would make a wonderful addition to my ever growing scrapbook of college life. Amanda and Stacey were both in awe of their gift which was understandable they were priceless works of art. The guys and Shelia were amazed the pieces of art they'd received as a gift. I explained that I spent most of my free time working on these gifts.
Each one got up out of their chair or the couch to give me a hug. They said that this was definitely the best Christmas gift ever. No one had ever made them something so beautiful for Christmas and not even a handmade blanket from their grandma could compare. I felt very honored that my present could be considered something better than what they got from grandma. After all the presents were opened, we proceeded to clean up the mess of paper before we sat down for dinner. I told everyone while we were picking up that there would be two more guests for dinner. I told them about getting help from a couple of TA's in the Art Department. I said they were the ones who helped me create the beautiful works of art.
At 4pm Jan and Rick both arrived at our apartment for Christmas dinner. I invited them as way to thank them for their help. I made the introductions and then we all sat down for dinner. Everything looked and smelled wonderful which was always a comfort. Jan had brought her mom's famous bread pudding for dessert. I loved homemade bread pudding. Kieran said the blessing and then we ate.
The conversation was lively tonight. Definitely with the addition of two more people to our small circle. We talked about the concert we went to in November and then discussed the chances of going to another concert in March, which would definitely be a lot closer than going to Atlanta. Rick asked who the guys were in the every picture with the ladies. I explained those were the guys from Celtic Thunder. Amanda then went into great detail about my kiss, like I wanted everyone to know what happened.
Everyone seemed to enjoy the two guests which was great because without them the gifts I made would have been a total disaster. About an hour later we had dessert which was an amazing assortment of cakes and puddings. I swear I would need to start going to the gym to work out after tonight. I wonder if its open during Christmas break. I don't think it could hurt to check it out one day. I made sure that everyone went home with a care package of the Christmas leftovers. There was only two people living in this apartment and we didn't need the refrigerator chocked full of food we weren't going to be able to consume in a week's time.
Before my friends went back to their own places we talked about getting tickets and maybe spending one night at a hotel in Norfolk, VA. The show was Sunday, March 29th and maybe we could head to Norfolk on Saturday get a room for the night that way we would be nice and relaxed for the concert. The day of the concert just hang out somewhere and relax. I said there was a Starbucks close to the venue for the show. I mentioned there might be a good chance we'd run into the lads this time. I just needed everyone to let me know if they were interested in going to the show on the 29th of March, that way I could start checking out tickets online as soon as they became available for sale to the general public. Before everyone left they said I should get a jump on finding tickets because that would be an awesome time to take a mini break from classes.
- ok so i'll write more. Next update will start with the new year and take us all the way up to the weekend of the CT concert in Norfolk, VA. Will Neil make his intentions know of will he continue flirting with Meagan.
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Post by celticsweetheart on Jul 15, 2012 0:21:14 GMT -5
- I decided to write more tonight. I hated leaving the story in a lurch. Besides I really want to get to Norfolk and to Neil.
New Years Eve came and went in the blink of an eye, which really didn't bother me because it was the one day I was anti-social. I was never fond of all the celebrations especially when it involved kissing a date at exactly midnight. I never really could ever find a date for one of these events so I just gave up this holiday all together as totally useless. I usually preferred staying indoors and ordering a pizza and an order of wings from Jet's Pizza.
I started scouring the internet for tickets to the CT concert in Norkfolk. The CT website hasn't yet said if the tickets were available to the general public just yet. As soon as they become available I'm gonna get on there to see what is available. I will try to get 6 tickets that are together in the same row. I will then check out hotels in the area to see who had the best price for one night. I'll need two rooms though instead of just one cause there is no way two guys are going to sleep in a room with four girls.
My class this semester were pretty straightforward, mostly art classes along with a photography class. I loved my digital camera and wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. I did need to purchase a new SD card for it though because my old one was getting pretty filled with pictures from Christmas dinners, Thanksgiving dinner and our trip to Atlanta.
The monthly dinner parties started back up at the end of January. It was a light dinner nothing too heavy since we'd spent two months eating really rich, high fat foods. I started making trips to the gym on campus because I needed to loose a few pounds from all the good food I ate at Thanksgiving and Christmas. Me and Amanda even started going to the pool once a week to do a couple of laps. Between working out in the gym and swimming I should loose enough weight so that I will fit in a size 10 dress by the time of the Norfolk concert.
The beginning of February I can start looking for tickets because now they are for sale to the general public. The tickets are about 70 dollars a person which really isn't that bad I think they might have been around that price when we saw them in Atlanta in November. This time we won't have to spend two nights in a hotel only one and from what I've seen hotels are a lot cheaper in Norfolk than they were in Atlanta.
I'm able to find six tickets at the 70 dollar price. They are in the 6th row, the section that is left of center stage and starts with an isle seat. Those are pretty good tickets considering I'm looking for six tickets together whereas last time I could only get four seats together instead of the 6 I needed. It tell the group at our next dinner that I found great tickets but that I needed everyone's money so I could purchase the tickets. I said I would also be purchasing two parking passes as well that way we don't have to mess around to find parking cause it will already be paid for.
Its about the second week of February when I put the ticket money in my account. I will purchase the tickets tomorrow. I'm pretty sure the same seats will appear because the last couple times I've looked those exact seats are still available. It is during our February dinner party that I suggest maybe us girls need to go shopping one weekend for an outfit to wear to the concert. I've lost quite a bit of weight over the past two months and want to get something to not only turn heads but maybe get a few numbers in the process. I didn't share the last part of that sentence aloud but just to myself. The only head I was interested in was Neil.
So I'm kinda interested in Neil or at least I'm curious as to what I done to warrant his affections toward me. The girls agree that it is necessary if they wanted to look absolutely amazing at the concert. I'd purchased the tickets on the Friday before we head out on our shopping spree. I wanted to see what they weather was usually like in Norfolk during March because in Newport News the weather was mild but not overly cold.
On the 22nd of February the four of us loaded into my car headed for Virginia Beach to see what would tantalize us. We needed something new, something exciting, something very special for this one occasion. We left early in the morning and didn't get back home until later that evening. I we could have bought out all the stores in Virginia Beach but instead opted for something that made a definite statement.
When I got to my room I collapse on my bed from sheer exhaustion. I don't think I've ever tried on so many dresses in one day, today was an exception that I didn't want to repeat for a while. I didn't even feel like looking at any of my assignments for class they would have to wait until Sunday evening when I got the strength back in my limbs. I even considered missing church tomorrow because I was just too tired. I must have feel asleep with my clothes on because when I woke I was still wearing the jeans and t-shirt I wore on Saturday when I went shopping with the girls in Virginia Beach.
When I woke up Sunday morning I barely had the strength to use the bathroom let alone take a shower for church. Its a good thing I was up pretty early for a Sunday because it would give me enough time to wake up and maybe get the shower I needed. I might even make it to church as well. I rarely missed a Sunday and if I did I usually had a good excuse like illness. I then dragged my but into the kitchen where the smell of coffee woke me up. I loved a cup of hot coffee to start the day or at least to wake me up enough to get in the shower.
The last Sunday in February a mile stone because it wouldn't be that long before we would spend a Sunday in Norfolk to see Celtic Thunder. God always seem to come before CT no matter how crappy I am feeling but I just hope on that particular day he understands why I have to miss a Sunday. It doesn't take long for me to wake up enough to jump in the shower. I'm dressed and ready go to church by 9:45, which gives me 15 minutes to get over to the church that is located on campus.
- will write more tomorrow. now its time for me to sleep, i'm exhausted.
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Post by celticbear on Jul 15, 2012 20:30:00 GMT -5
Loved Meg's Christmas gifts to her friends! Glad she thanked her helpers by having them over for Christmas dinner! Best of all they are all heading for another encounter with the Lads!
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Post by celticsweetheart on Jul 15, 2012 20:42:35 GMT -5
- so decided to post another update this one just a tad bit earlier than i normally do.
March 1, 2009, the countdown to the concert in Norfolk began. Four weeks the six of us would be in Norfolk to see Celtic Thunder again. It seemed like it was only yesterday when we were in Atlanta. It was actually about four months ago when we first saw them. I for one couldn't wait for this concert to come. I make a reservation for two room at the Comfort Inn Olde Town in Portsmouth, VA for Saturday March 28th. I still have to print the tickets and the two parking passes. Newport News is only 27 miles from Norfolk but by spending Saturday in Portsmouth it will be easier for us to get to the Chrysler Hall.
After church I head straight for the computer. I log onto the CT website. I wanna see if there is anyone that is going to the show at the Chrysler Hall on the 29th of March. I chat with a couple ladies about going to see them again. I mention I just saw them in November at the Fox Theater in Atlanta. I start telling them about my kiss. I say its definitely something I'll never forget but that I wonder if he will remember me? Someone said he probably hasn't if the kiss was that great. I chat a little while longer before logging out. I really need to work on my homework.
Ok, now its time to crack the books or at least my notes. I spend an hour working on an assignment for an art history class I'm taking this semester. I head into the kitchen to get something to eat. I decide to make myself a two eggs and a couple links of sausage along with two slices of bread. I hear Amanda in her room reciting a piece of dialogue from some play her class is doing this semester. She told me she was going to audition for one of the roles but she didn't know which one so she was going to rehearse both dialogues.
The weeks go by so quickly that before I know it there less than one week left before we head to Norfolk. We are spending Saturday night in Portsmouth but that is like 10 minutes from Chrysler Hall in Norfolk. Friday after class I will start packing my suitcase for the trip. We've already started putting together gift bags for the lads and Neil of course. The guys decided they would make gift bags up for the three ladies in the band as well. Plus I need to make sure my new SD card is in my camera. I also need to make sure I have my laptop packed as well since I'm taking as well.
Friday afternoon March 27, I grab the smallest suitcase from my closet. Since we are going to be away for one day well actually two but we are coming home Sunday night because everyone has class on Monday. I just need to pack the essentials plus a pair of jeans or pants and a top. I don't think its gonna be too cold since it wasn't really cold here in Newport News last March and well Norfolk is about 27 miles away.
After I finish packing my bag I go over in my head making sure I have everything. Oh I almost forget the silk stockings I bought to wear with my new dress which I already place in the dress bag. I also remember the garter belt for my stocking, quickly stuffing them in the with my undies and socks. I also have my shoes that I'm gonna wear with my dress packed as well, they are in their own small bag which is carefully placed in my suitcase.
Now that I know I have everything I need I can zip the bag and place it in the living room. I will also put my laptop bag which is also holding my camera as well. On the kitchen table I see the gift bags we've started assembling two days ago. Stacey and Shelia are suppose to come over later around 5 to finish the bags. We've tagged them already which is good because that way gifts don't get mixed up. I even made a bag for Neil. I have contributed to each of the bags but the one for Neil is special.
Me and Amanda have been working out most nights at the gym and at the pool. We wanna look amazing for the concert Sunday night. The girls arrive on time we have a light supper before attacking the gift bags. The guys are suppose to bring their bags over around now but they are running late. I got a text from Kieran just as they were leaving the apartment. It takes about 5 minutes for them to get here. I add their bags to the collection. We each add one more thing to the bags before removing them from the table.
After dinner which is chicken salad sandwiches and potatoes chips. We all head over to the pool for a little work out in the water. The pool is usually open late on Fridays which is cool. I really want to get a mini workout before the trip tomorrow besides the swim will help me sleep like a baby tonight. I just hope that Neil comes to visit my dreams again. The last visit I had with him was so lovely.
We change in the locker room and head out to the pool's deck. It feels good to get in the water. It's really only been a couple of days since I was last here. I'm not gonna do the normal mile tonight just a couple laps but since this is an Olympic size pool it will accommodate the 6 of us.
It is around 8:30 pm when we finally get out of the pool and head back to the looker rooms. I definitely need a shower now because I sure am not going to bed smelling like chlorine. After I finish finish showering I get dressed in the same clothes I was wearing before I got in the pool. Now that everyone is out of the shower we start talking about tomorrow's plan. Check in is at 3 pm so if we leave around noon we should be alright its only 30 miles to Portsmouth. There is lots of cool stuff to do if we get there too early and can't check in.
We leaving the locker room and run into the guys who have been sitting in the lobby of the natatorium. They were discussing what time to leave which we quickly explained that we think noon would be the best time traffic wise. Kieran and Tony both agreed. So it was settled we'd leave tomorrow from mine and Amanda's apartment. We'd take both my car and Kieran's to Portsmouth. Maybe we could find something to do that was free just in case we can't check in before 3.
I for one am glad we aren't leaving until noon because that means I can sleep in a bit. Before going to bed I log into CT website to chat in the pub. I tell people I'm going to the concert on Sunday and that I can't wait to see if Neil remembers me. I don't stay in the pub that long instead I log off and crawl into bed. I make sure to set my alarm from 11 am.
The alarm goes off and I jump into the shower. I laid out the clothes I'm going to wear today last night so I won't have to go in search of things to wear today. Once I'm dressed, I put together my necessity bag which consists of my toothbrush, toothpaste, mousse for my hair, brush, shampoo/conditioner, various hair clips, my make up bag and some dental floss. I make sure all the lights are turned off and so is my computer before I head into the living room.
The others are waiting for me as I come out of my room. I pour myself a bowl of cereal and pour myself a cup of coffee. Everyone is either drinking or eating when I sit down at the kitchen table. Kieran printed off directions to the Comfort Inn in Portsmouth. It won't take long so we'll have to find something we can do while we wait for our rooms.
Amanda and Sheila take my car keys so they put the gift bags in the trunk. When they get back everyone has finished what they were eating or drinking and are ready to head out. I grab my bags as does all the others except Kieran and Tony whose bags are in the trunk already.
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Post by celticbear on Jul 15, 2012 23:13:07 GMT -5
Great update Colleen! Look Out Neil! Here Comes Meg and her friends!
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Post by celticsweetheart on Jul 16, 2012 0:07:54 GMT -5
- ok another update this time we will meet the other lads. i promise.
We are officially on the road to Portsmouth and with any luck we'll probably be there in an hour. I doubt we'll get to check into our hotel because it won't be ready so we'll have to find something else to occupy our time.
Just as I said we get to the Comfort Inn just a little after 1 pm and our rooms aren't ready. So we decide to check the stack of brochures to see what we can do to kill a little time. Something that won't cost anymore money. Something that is free. So far we find nothing that is free to check out. Instead we decide to check out what's playing at the Commodore. They have a matinee at 2pm on Saturday which is great plus parking on the street is free. So we decide to see a movie even though it isn't free at least we will be sitting down for an hour and a half.
We head from the hotel to the Commodore, park, purchase the tickets and then do a little window shopping before the movie starts. It's just a little after 1 when we purchase the tickets so we have about a little wait which isn't that bad compared to how long we'd have to wait for our rooms to be cleaned. We walk down High Street checking out the various restaurants and specialty shops as well St. Paul's Catholic Church. I take a couple pictures of the church itself as well as my friends in front of the church. It doesn't take long for us to reach Kitchen Koop which is a place for people who love to cook. I want to go in but its time we headed back to the theatre.
We decide not to by in snack food and just enjoy the movie. I peer into my purse and I find I have some candy in there from the last movie I went to. I think back how long that's been and decide its still good to eat because last movie I saw was just a week ago. I have enough to share with everyone. We go into the theatre and give the usher our tickets its a really cute theatre and they have tables and you can order food. We decide to just watch the movie and then go eat afterwards.
After the movie is over we head over to Griff's Restaurant and Sports Lounge for an early dinner. Now we are all so hungry anything sounds good even a glass of water or a Coke or Pepsi. One look at the menu and my mouth is watering. I'm torn between ordering the macho nachos or the pub fries. Instead I chose to order the fried pickles along with the Griff's Big City Burger. Everyone else orders some go for a burger while others try one of Griff's signature sandwiches. Someone else order another appetizer for the table.
The drinks come as do the appetizers. The fried pickles are amazing and so is the macho nachos. Everyone tries both appetizers while waiting for their food. It is long before our food arrives which is great cause I'm just about finished with the pickles. My burger is huge but I'm pretty sure I can eat most of it considering I've only had bowl of granola at 11:30 this morning.
By five we are heading back to the hotel to check in. Finally we are able to rest for the rest of the night. Each room has two double beds which is plenty big for four girls and the two guys. The first thing I do is plug my laptop into the outlet so I can connect to the internet. Its a good thing this hotel has free wifi.
It doesn't take long to connect which is great it means the connection is strong. I log into the CT website to check out the Pub chat room. It's not really late here on the coast so there should still be people from the west still up or at least online. I chat with a couple of people that I've come to find are regulars to this chat room. I'm so exited I really can't contain myself but I have to keep all my excitement in check so as not to arouse my friends who still think I have this great secret for getting the guys like Neil. I'm starting to think they think I'm some sort of witch but as far as I know there isn't any witch in the family background.
I log off the computer and shut it down for the night. I check out the time for breakfast. I take the clothes I'm gonna wear tomorrow out of my suitcase so I won't have such a difficult time tomorrow. I quickly use the bathroom to change into my night shirt and brush my teeth. I leave my necessity bag in the bathroom so I won't have to search for it in the morning while I'm trying to get ready.
Breakfast has to be before 11 am since that is when were suppose to check out. So I set the alarm on my phone for 7 am. I wanna get a jump start on the day. It will definitely be a busy one for sure. Tonight was definitely a hot bed for activity but I'm pretty sure tomorrow night will be absolutely amazing. I just hope Neil remembers me. I'm gonna say a little prayer before I go to sleep and if I'm good maybe I'll have that Neil dream I've been having ever since he kissed me in November.
- post more tomorrow, I promise.
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Post by celticbear on Jul 16, 2012 20:30:28 GMT -5
Glad everybody made it safely! And the fried dill pickles was a great choice! Looking forward to the next update!
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Post by celticsweetheart on Jul 17, 2012 0:23:04 GMT -5
The alarm goes off right on schedule but alas I'm not the only one up. I guess Amanda decided to get a jump on the day as well. At least I won't be alone when I go to breakfast. I sure hope it is as good as the one in Atlanta. I did notice they had waffles which I love.
As soon as Amanda gets out of the bathroom I head in to take my shower. Last night or maybe it was early this morning I kept having this crazy dream. Everywhere I looked I saw Neil, when I went to the grocery store there he was and when I went to the bookstore he was the clerk behind the counter. Was this some kind of weird sign. I just couldn't shake the feeling that something big was going to happen today, I could just feel it in my bones.
About twenty minutes later I'm out of the bathroom and ready to go have breakfast. I ask Amanda if she's gonna go with me to have breakfast, she nods and we head out the door to the breakfast area. I can smell the coffee brewing the closer we get to the breakfast room. I even smell bacon which is something I've not had in maybe four months. No one else is here just yet so we sit down and wait for the coffee to finish. I think we both need a cup or two
As I get up to get a cup, Amanda asks if everything is alright. I'm not sure why she asked this but I say that everything is good. Then she says are you sure. I respond why do you keep asking if I'm alright. "It's just that two different times you woke me up screaming, Neil!! So I just wanted to know if you were alright because you've never done it before." I tell her I kept having these weird dreams. Everywhere I went I saw Neil and I guess I must have called out his name a couple times. I didn't mean to wake her up. I ask her if she thought it was some sort of sign even though I didn't really believe in those kind of sings. She just shrugged her shoulders. Then we both got up to make ourselves a waffle.
Once they were done we got a couple slices of bacon and some seasonal fruit to eat along with butter and syrup. Half an hour later Kieran and Tony wander into breakfast. It looks like we're the only ones going to eat anything. It's Sunday morning so I guess anyone else whose staying here probably got something to eat and went back to their room to finish getting ready for church.
The four of us sit around the table trying to decide what our plan would be for today. We knew that check out was at 11 am so we would go check out Chrysler Hall the venue for the concert later tonight. I said maybe we should also check out the local Starbucks since it was common knowledge the lads frequented that establishment.
Just as we were getting ready to head back to the rooms Shelia and Stacey wandered into the breakfast room. They said that they were ready to check out but that they were getting hungry so they decided to come down to get breakfast. The four of us went back to our rooms to pack up our bags. It didn't take long for me and Amanda to get our things put back into our suitcases.
Once we had our bags repacked we took them down to the car so they could be put in the trunk. We went back to the room to do a double check, making sure nothing got left behind. The only thing of mine was my purse but other than that noting of mine was even in the bathroom. Amanda took everything of her's to the car as well. Now all we had to do was wait for Stacey and Shelia to return to the room to fetch their bags. Once they came to claim their stuff we could check out and head toward Chrysler Hall.
We checked out around 10:45 am, we still had 15 more minutes left but the earlier we left the less traffic there might be on the roads. Now we were ready to head to Norfolk which was just across the bridge. It was a short trip about 10 minutes with no traffic. I'm pretty sure there wouldn't be any around the venue this early in the day. As soon as we came in view of the hall we could see the tour buses and semi's in a neat row. The curtains in the buses were pulled which gave the impression that who was ever on them was still probably sleeping.
We decide to go to the nearby Starbucks to hang out and have a cup of cappuccino and do a little surfing on internet. We park and I grab my laptop from the trunk, its not really busy this early in the day. It's almost noon but not quite there is still about 15 minutes left before the clock strikes 12. Everyone orders a beverage and I set up my laptop at a coffee table and chair by the window. The computer is still booting up when I go to fetch my drink from the counter. I make sure to grad a few extra napkins just in case of an emergency.
I decide to check out Facebook to see if the lads have left any hints about their whereabouts. There is nothing new to report, I'm starting to feel like a bit of a stalker but I keep telling myself I'm not. I log in to the CT website to see if anyone has posted a message in the Virginia Thunderheads forum but noting new there either. I then proceed to the PUB to see what others are chatting about. I mention I'm at a Starbucks in Norfolk, VA and that my friends and I are hoping to run into the lads sometime before the show. I then mention to one of the regulars that I had this weird dream and that I apparently called out Neil's name and woke my friend.
Amanda asked the other two girls if they heard me call for Neil this morning. Both shook their head, they are deep sleepers and wear earplugs to bed. So there was no chance of them hearing me this morning. I told the group in the pub that was the only weird thing that happened this weekend. Someone said it sounds like "Love". I'm like how is it love when I only met him once and spent a few hours with him before the show and then afterwards. I guess I've never been in that type of love to know what was right in front of me. Gee I sure hope the lads aren't lurking around the Pub like someone once mentioned.
After I log out I notice someone walking across the street. I can't really see who it is but it could be someone I just don't know so I go back to the net. I need to check out my Monday class because there is some stuff that's online that we need to look at. My eyes are glued to the screen when the stranger walks in a takes a seat opposite of me. He asks if the seat was taken to which I reply, "no." I know the voice but can't figure where I heard it before that's when I decide to look up from the screen. Right in front of me is George Donaldson.
I can't believe my eyes am I dreaming is it really George sitting in front of me. The others don't pay attention so they don't see who is sitting in front of me. He continues to talk to me at first I don't understand what he's saying then I tune in and its clear as a bell. I keep forgetting he's from Scotland and his accent always throws me for a loop. He said something about Neil thinking we'd be waiting at Starbucks. I ask how did he know where we'd be, pointing to my friends and myself. He then goes on to say that a group of them are going to Chrysler Museum of Art and wanted know if we'd like to join them. I quickly respond without asking my friends first, we are all majoring in some sort of art so spending a couple hours in a museum won't hurt besides its free. He goes back across the street but not before saying they will meet us out front so we can follow one another to the museum.
Once he leaves I motion to my friends who are sitting not five feet from me. I say, "didn't you see who I was talking to just a minute ago?" They shrug their shoulders and I reply I was talking to George from Celtic Thunder. Now they wonder how did they miss him which is what I'm wondering as well. I say we are going to go to the Chrysler Museum of Art with them. They are all OK with the idea of spending time at an art museum, at least its free.
I gather up my laptop and we head outside to wait for George and his group. Within a matters of minutes a van pulls up too the curb and Neil gets out. George is driving, I give him a little wave. We talk for a bit about the trip to the museum. It's not that far from the hall which is great but we need to go soon because they are only open until 5 and the guys/girls have to get back by 4:30 at the latest. We pile into our cars and head toward the Chrysler Museum of Art. We proceed to head to 245 West Olney Road which is about five minutes from Chrysler Hall.
It's just a little after one when the group gets inside the museum. We each grab a map of the museum. The group consists of George, Paul, Damian, Neil, and the three women from the band. The person at the information desk asks if we need a guided tour since our group is so large but we say No because we don't have a lot of time. Apparently Ryan's gone for a run and well Keith doesn't do art museums, which is fine with me cause we are a pretty large group.
We first head straight toward the elevator to the second floor where most of the art is located. We decide to break into groups but not before I take a couple pictures of our group. I promised Kieran that I would get a couple of pictures of him and Tony with the ladies of CT. I never go back on a promise. I even get my picture taken with Neil and then with George.
Tony and Kieran and the CT ladies go off in on direction, Stacey, Shiela, Amanda along with Paul and Damian head toward 13 - 18th Century galleries while Neil and George go with me to the 19 - 20th Century galleries. We agree to meet downstairs in the cafeteria by 2:30pm so we can get a quick bite to eat before they close at 3. The museum doesn't close until 5 but we've made plans to have dinner around 4:30 and back to Starbucks by 6 so the four female members of the group can change into their outfits for the concert.
The three groups head out on their own after agreeing to meet for a late lunch. Personally, I love 19th & 20th century art the best. As we walk through the gallery Neil starts asking me questions about why I chose this gallery over the others. I say that most of the artists whose work I admire come from the 19th and the 20th century. I say that I also love contemporary art as well but that by starting with the 19th century your able to build up to contemporary art.
- enough for tonight I'm tired and my brain is too, tomorrow I promise. I really want to get to the bottom of these dreams.
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Post by celticbear on Jul 17, 2012 21:21:40 GMT -5
Love how George surprised Meg! Sounds like everybody is having a great time at the museum! And knowing my Keith like I do! I'm betting he is on the bus either sleeping or working on a new song!
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Post by celticsweetheart on Jul 17, 2012 22:13:52 GMT -5
Wait until you read the next update it will blow you out of the water
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Post by celticsweetheart on Jul 18, 2012 1:17:40 GMT -5
So the three groups had gone their separate ways agreeing to meet in the cafeteria by at least 2:30. My group starts with 20th Century Sculpture which I adore just as much as I love paintings. We check out some of the sculptures before checking out before heading to the Early 20th Century and Impressionist paintings. We stop and admire various paintings that we pass. I love French Impressionist Henri Matisse and American artist Edward Hopper.
As we wander the galleries first side by side. When I stop to admire a painting, Neil standing beside me takes my right hand in his left. I don't push it away because in some way I like the feel of his hand. It's soft and warm, I turn my head to the right he smells so good. I wonder if all guys this attractive smell this good, none of the ones I've dated in the past have. We continue through the galleries hand in hand. The next painting I stop to admire I notice he is no longer holding my hand instead he has attached himself to my right arm. George is ahead of us by only a few steps which is good cause he's the designated driver, didn't want to loose sight of him.
Another painting, his left arm is now around my waste. On the outside he's looks to be a sweet guy from Ireland but on the inside he's this sneaky little devil. As we are about to pass the threshold of the the last of galleries in 19 & 20 Century Art. I stop, turn to face him and he pulls me closer and plants another kiss. This one is definitely memorable because I hear George say, "OK, you two break it up." I'm like what did we do, it makes me feel like I'm on a school field trip and the chaperon yells at someone for getting to close to the art.
I look at my watch and there isn't that much time left before we have to meet the others in the cafeteria. I suggest that we go check out the Art Nouveau Furniture gallery. After we look at all the art we head back toward the elevator so we can head back to the first floor. As we walk into the cafeteria we see the others, who are already eating. I guess they didn't wanna wait for us.
We grab a couple of trays. I grab a couple bottles of water and I order the Indian Spinach Salad while Neil order the Gobbler which is a turkey and white cheddar sandwich on French bread. George orders the Roast Beef Wrap and grabs a couple bottles of water as well. Neil pays for my salad and his sandwich as well as the two bottles of water. I head toward an empty table near the others but not before I grab a fork and knife along with a lot of napkins.
As I sit down Amanda comes over and she gives me the look. I'm like what did I do?? She says, "what have you two been doing?" I'm confused we aren't late its just now turned 2, why is she giving me the third degree. She goes on to say what are his intentions toward you. When did my roommate turn into my mother?? I ask, "where is this coming from, this is a side of you I've never seen." She says, "I'm just looking out for you, I know you don't have a good track record with guys and I don't want you to get hurt." She was right about the bad track record. I've dated more losers in the past two years that have left me heart broken and mentally bruised. I tell her she's nothing to worry about and she shakes her head and goes back to her seat.
Neil walks over to the table, "your friend she scowled at me." I tell him not to worry about Amanda she doesn't mean anything by it. I say she's just making sure I don't get hurt, she doesn't think your intentions are honorable. He says, "where are my manners I didn't properly introduce myself when we first met in November. Neil Byrne, lead guitarist from Dublin, Ireland. It's a pleasure to meet you. "Meagan O'Leary, Newport News Virginia by way of Knoxville, TN, a pleasure to meet you as well." He says, "what do you do in Newport News?" "I attend Christopher Newport University and I'm majoring in Studio Art with a minor in business. What do you do for a living?" He then says, "I'm currently lead guitarist and background vocalist for a group called Celtic Thunder, we have a performance here in town tonight."
I am a hopeless romantic which is why I've had such a difficult time finding that someone special. I can now say without a doubt that romance has not yet died and that there are guys out there who know how to treat a lady. I love holding hands as much as I love the feel of a warm embrace or a kiss. I never forgot the first kiss and I definitely will not forget this one. The overall build up to the kiss itself was beautiful. He's a great kisser and he has lovely hands that are so soft.
Apparently, Neil's been talking to me but I wasn't listening I was deep in my own thoughts and only wake up when he says, "have you heard one word I said." I reply, "sorry I was just thinking about something and got carried away in my own thoughts." He asked me what my favorite holiday was? That was easy, Christmas. He wanted to know my favorite color? Another easy question, blue. He asked what my favorite flower was? Ok, that was a little more difficult to answer this time. I knew what flowers I didn't like but as for my favorites I'd never thought about that. I loved tulips and carnations, I hated roses especially from guys who thought they could win me over. I love daisies and mums. He then wanted to know if there as a particular holiday I hated?? No one has ever asked me that question but it was easy to answer, Valentine's Day. I said it was the most pointless holiday I'd ever seen. There were so many holidays that celebrated love, which I did not like. I'm sure my opinion might change now that I was bitten by the love bug.
Since we were playing 20 questions I thought I'd ask him some questions of my own. I chose my questions carefully because there were so many generic ones floating around online that I didn't want to ask something that had already been asked. I wanted to know what was the first instrument he learned to play as as child?? He replied, "the guitar." I then asked what his favorite Christmas gift was. He said a guitar. The next question would be a little more thought provoking because there wouldn't be a simple answer for it. I asked, "why me?" I was just a little curious as to why he chose me over any other female that he could have come in contact with during their first tour of the US. I really needed to know because my fate rested in what he said.
He started by saying that he doesn't normally kiss fans on the lips as a matter of fact he hasn't ever kissed a fan. He said I was his first which made me feel special. He then said, "I've never met anyone quite like you in the US, Canada or even Ireland. Most girls are so into the fame scenario, so its difficult to find someone whose honest and genuine." I was speechless. He then said it was nice to meet someone like me. He said he felt a connection the first time I spoke to him at the Subway in Atlanta. He then went on to say that he never thought he'd find a potential special someone while on tour but that there was always a first for everything in life.
If he was selling encyclopedias door to door I would have purchased an entire set. This was definitely no line, I was 100% certain because most guys I'd dated never said anything remotely close to what he said. He then asked to see my phone which I gladly handed over to him. I then noticed him typing something into my phone. He said he added his number to my address book, so I then took his picture. I had the type of phone that when it went off it would show the picture of the person who was calling. He said I could text him or send him direct messages on twitter. I said, "how can I do that if your not following me?" He then said that I needed to check out my twitter to see who was following me. He said that when he got home to Ireland, I could call him when I got lonely and I needed to hear a friendly voice.
We'd finished eating and threw the bottles in the recycling bin and anything else in the trash. It was time for the CT group to head back to Chrysler Hall. My friends and I decided we should go as well since there wasn't much time before the show. The guys still needed to find a place to change clothes as well. The ladies were to return to Starbucks to change into our evening attire. Thomas the manager said it was OK with him if we used the restroom to change our clothes for the concert tonight.
Everyone had said their good byes to the group. We walked out with them because there was no point in staying any longer because we'd have to leave soon. Before they pulled away I walked over to the van to tell Neil, good bye and that I'd see him later tonight. I gave him a kiss time time, I think it surprised him but then he returned the kiss with one so passionate that I almost fainted, which is something I rarely do. I waved good bye to the group who disappeared in the blink of an eye.
As soon as I walked back to my car all I could hear was someone asking what just happened. I was too delirious to speak so I just handed the keys to Amanda asking her to drive somewhere I could get something cold to drink. She said she saw a mall that's not far from here, there is bound to be a food court where I could get something cold to drink. It was just a little after 3, it was too early for dinner. We got in the car and drove to the mall.
- will write more tomorrow its late and I'm tired.
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Post by celticbear on Jul 18, 2012 21:06:02 GMT -5
WOW! This update was AMAZING! Amanda needs to realize That Neil and the rest of the Lads are honorable when it comes to Romance! Remember I get into the act when Meg comes to Ireland and Hopefully I end up with Keith!
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Post by celticsweetheart on Jul 19, 2012 1:06:44 GMT -5
We were heading toward MacArthur Center which was located at 300 Monticello Avenue which apparently was about 2 minutes from Chrysler Hall. I finally came to when pulled into a parking spot in the parking garage at MacArthur Center. Again I hear, "what happened back there??" Amanda says that maybe we'll find out what happened after I have something cold to wake me up.
Once inside I'm ushered over to Smoothie Mania where I wait at a table for my friends to bring me something to drink. A few minutes later Amanda brings me what looks to be a strawberry smoothie which is my favorite. I take a quick drink hoping it will wake me up enough to tell my friends what happened.
Finally, I'm fully conscious now and am able to speak, well I could speak before but was too delirious from the incident in the parking lot. I start out by telling them that I went to say good bye to Neil and that I'd see him later. I then mentioned I was the one who kissed him and how he had his arms wrapped around me. I continued by saying he then turned me around so that my back was facing the van and that's when he came in for the kill. I said his lips met mine and I could have sworn I heard fireworks going off in the distance. He then whispered something to me, though I'm not entirely sure what he said because I was so overcome by the kiss which was the second one for the day. Right then Amanda chimed in, "second kiss of the day, how is that possible. It looked to me like one kiss from him." Oh, I say, "you asked me in the cafeteria what were the two of us doing, which I thought meant you'd heard or seen the other kiss that took place in one of the 19 & 20th Century Art galleries." "I didn't know he kissed you in the gallery, I was just making a blanket statement about the relationship," she said to me. Everyone couldn't believe what they were hearing that I had been kissed twice in less than 2 hrs.
After I finished the smoothie and retelling my tale of hand holding to my friends it was getting close to dinner time. I just noticed that both Kieran and Tony were no where to been seen. Stacey told me they went to grab the clothes they were going to wear tonight. Twenty minutes later the guys show up wearing different clothes which look really nice. They'll both have the ladies eating out of the palm of their hand.
Before they came back to the table, I'd checked out the map of MacArthur Center and noticed there was Body Shop and a Bath and Body Works not far from where we were. I really wanted to get something new to wear, something that smelled good so I said why don't we go check out Body Shop first then Bath and Body Works. Everyone liked the idea even the guys who thought it wouldn't be a bad idea to find a nice fragrance to wear with their swanky new threads.
I found a nice flavor of lip gloss at the Body Shop which I purchased. I love stuff that tasted yummy and I wanted to have the tastiest lips tonight. Next we went down to Bath & Body Works where I was bound to find some great smelling body spray. They just happen to having an amazing sale on everything in the whole store. I didn't want to spend too much but I did want to buy something that I could wear tonight. It didn't take long for me to find the perfect scent. Tonight was going to be amazing.
Since we were near Max & Erma's, I suggest we have dinner there. We wouldn't have to drive somewhere else besides if we wanted to eat before the show this was the closet place and they had an amazing menu of items to choose from. Everyone agreed that on Max & Erma's so we headed on into the restaurant which wasn't too far from Bath and Body Works.
It didn't take long for the hostess to seat us but its not everyday they probably get a party of six in their restaurant. When we got to the table we all agreed to stick with food that wouldn't take long to prepare and serve because we didn't have much time before us ladies needed to get to Starbucks to change into our evening attire.
I suggest that maybe we stick with sandwiches since they don't have to be cooked instead maybe grilled. The waitress comes to the table and I order first. I order the Stacked-To-The-Max Club sandwich which comes with seasoned fries. Everyone orders something different but we all order from the sandwich section of the menu instead of the burgers which would probably take more time to eat.
Our drinks arrive at our table at exactly the same time our food comes which is great. It's almost 5:30 which means time is a wasting away but we still find enough time to enjoy our food without swallowing it whole. We discuss the plan for tonight. We really don't have a plan, all we want to do is enjoy the night, which I'm sure we will do. I for one had enjoyed spending the day with the CT group at the museum as well as with my friends at the mall. Now we are enjoying a light dinner together before stepping foot inside another venue to enjoy Celtic Thunder Live.
The waitress comes to the table to see how everything is which is code for do you want dessert, which we really don't have time for. We all tell her the food is good but that we'll just take the bill because we are on a schedule since we are going to see Celtic Thunder at the Chrysler Hall at 7:30. The waitress hands us the bill and says we're the largest group she's seen in here in a while. She said she thought we might be seeing the concert at the hall tonight. A few of the employees were going to see them as well. She wished us good luck with the concert.
I looked at the bill and divided it 6 ways so that everyone paid relatively the same amount. I also made sure we left her a fairly nice tip before heading out into the night. We paid the bill and left the tip on the table. Everyone had finished eating what they ordered so we headed back to our cars that were parked in the MacArthur Center parking garage. It hadn't turned 6 when we finally exited the structure which was great because that meant it only cost a dollar to park.
Once we are back on the street again we we head toward Starbucks. We are only a couple blocks from coffee shop which is great and there doesn't seem to be a lot of people inside because we are able to park directly in front with no problem. I open the trunk so we can get our bags out. I make sure to get my laptop out as well so Tony can surf a little while the four of us are getting dressed. The place looks deserted but it isn't closed. I order 4 cappuccinos before heading to the bathroom to change. Tony is setting up the laptop and Kieran promised to get the drinks when they are ready. I head to the bathroom to change. I stayed behind to order something to drink so that way it didn't seem like we were just using the coffee shop as a place to change clothes.
An hour later four ladies emerge from the bathroom in outfits that will definitely turn a few heads tonight. No need for a heavy coat tonight just a lite jacket will do. I'm lucky that the outfit I bought had a cute little jacket with it. The guys almost didn't recognize us when we enter the seating area. Our drinks are waiting for us as we sit down. I even think Thomas, the manager/owner didn't recognize us because he did a double take when we walked past him at the counter.
The guys had no idea what any of us were going to be wearing to the concert since we wanted it to be a secret. After we finished drinking all we could we packed up and headed to the venue for the show tonight. Next door to Starbucks was a florist and I decided to pop in to buy a carnation for Neil. I'm not sure why I wanted to do this but I did. I made sure to give Kieran his parking pass since he was ahead of me.
Once we parked in the designated parking lot. We made sure there was nothing visible to any who might pass by the cars. We decided to leave the gift bags in the trunk until after the concert but I did take the single carnation with me. I was going to give it to Neil while he was on stage. Since I had all the tickets I would be the first one in line, so I could give the ticket taker all the tickets for the 6 of us.
Once we were in we headed straight for our seats. We were in the sixth row in the section of seats that were just left of center stage. We had a great view even if we weren't front row. I chose the isle seat so I could get up and give Neil the carnation I bought for him before coming to the show tonight.
Before I knew it our row had filled up completely as did most of venue. I wondered if this was a sold out performance tonight. There was no indication on the marquee outside. The best thing about seeing Celtic Thunder is that there concerts always started on time. I not only had all the tickets but I was also carry all the glow in the dark necklaces and bracelets for the group. I passed them down the row so each one could have one to wear.
Just before intermission I was able to get up out of my seat so I could hand Neil the flower I'd purchased for him. He gave me the biggest smile but not before kneeling down to give me a kiss, on the cheek. I was glad he chose the cheek I didn't need a room full of angry women after me with intermission right around the corner.
Intermission. Now I could go to the bathroom and get back in plenty of time to check out more of the crowd. The line for the ladies room as just as bad as when we were in Atlanta. Someone behind me tapped me on the shoulder, they said they saw Neil give me a kiss after I gave him the flower. She said that was a nice gesture. I said he (meaning Neil) was well deserving of such a lovely flower. Before she could say anymore it was my turn, I used the bathroom making sure to wash my hands before returning to my seat. I didn't feel like getting any concessions but I did overhear a conversation about a run in someone had with Keith. It didn't sound like Keith was in a very good mood, I guess he didn't sleep well last night.
- will update more tomorrow. the second half plus what happens afterwards.
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Post by celticsweetheart on Jul 19, 2012 1:16:01 GMT -5
Amanda will learn that Neil is very honorable. If you thought that update was AMAZING then the one I just posted will blow you all the way to Ireland. Neil is great at surprising Meg when she least expects it. They say Scorpios mate for life. Could he be THE ONE. I guess we'll just have to wait and see what is in store for these two lovebirds. They are officially lovebirds. I think that when someone spends every night thinking about someone like she does there is no other word to describe their relationship. This will be first real relationship Meg has ever had in her entire life.
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