Last Monday I had the privilege of attending the 103rd Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. The University of Southern California and Pennsylvania State University went head to head in the granddaddy of all college bowl games. On the morning before the game, people lined the streets of Pasadena to watch the parade featuring over 40 floats. Built months in advance, these floats are brought to California weeks prior to the event and in the last 48 hours leading up to the parade, they are covered with some of the most exotic seeds, flowers, and grasses. Featuring surfing dogs, olympians, and some of the world’s best bands, the parade has been bringing joy to the streets of Pasadena and the television screens of Americans. Following the parade came the oldest bowl game in college football: The Rose Bowl. The first game was played in 1902 originally named the Tournament of Roses and then returned in 1916 renamed Rose Bowl, where it has been played annually ever since. The game is held every year on January 1st unless the 1st falls on a Sunday, where it is then moved to New Year's Day observed, January 2nd. Penn State had been featured in the RoseBowl three times previously to this year, winning once and losing twice. USC had played 33 Rose Bowl games, winning 24 previously to 2017. The winner of the Rose Bowl game 2017 was determined in the last minute of the game when a USC player Leon McQuay III made an interception and Matt Boermeester kicked a 46 yard field goal in the last three seconds, changing the score from 49-49 to 52-49 USC. After the game a USC fan turned to me and said "I would have bet $100 that he would not have made that field goal." This game marked history in the Rose Bowl games as it was the highest scoring Rose Bowl ever with a combined total of 101 points. No matter what the outcome, the excitement and power coming from the players and stands made for an outstanding game for everyone.
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1. They are beautiful!!
golden retriever on gray rock during daytimePhoto by Enis Yavuz on UnsplashIf you don't know a thing about Goldens, you at least know how beautiful they are. Their shiny, long-haired coat is a distinct trait that ranges from a very white, cream color all the way to deep red. Their dark noses, fluffy ears, and deep brown eyes make them a sight to fall in love with.
2. They are extremely gentle.
woman in black t-shirt and brown shorts sitting on brown grass field with white dogPhoto by Helena Lopes on UnsplashIt is a true fact that a Golden Retriever can hold an egg in its mouth without breaking it. Their nurturing nature and calm demeanor is a very comforting quality that makes Goldens a joy to be around.
3. Goldens are very easy to train.
adult golden retriever with cookie bone on nosePhoto by McDobbie Hu on UnsplashWhile they may be stubborn dogs, they are incredibly easy to train. This is mostly because they are people pleasers at heart! (And they'll do anything to earn themselves a little treat for being a good doggy!)
4. They love to cuddle!
a woman kissing her dog on the cheekPhoto by Nicholas Brownlow on UnsplashThis may come as a shock to Goldens, but they are not lap dogs. While they may like to think its okay to lay on their human's lap and cuddle, they don't realize that eighty pounds of pure fluff can be a little harder to cuddle with. Even if they can be huge, cuddling with Goldens is worth the pain.
5. Goldens are America's favorite family pet.
golden retriever lying on floorPhoto by Eugene Chystiakov on UnsplashGolden Retriever's make the best family pet. They are very patient and loving with babies and kids, and their love knows no bounds. Every person in the house is apt to adore their Golden, and their Golden is just as likely to love their family as well.
6. They love the water!
golden retriever in water during daytimePhoto by Marina Helena Muller on UnsplashBecause they carry a heavy coat, the summer heat can be hard on Goldens. As a result, they are quite the swimmers. They love to play around in the water and feel the cool sensation on their long hair, as well as dropping all their toys in the pool and making you dive to the deep end to get them.
7. They are obviously very photogenic.
golden retriever puppy on grey wooden fence during daytimePhoto by David Moynihan on UnsplashAs you can see, Golden Retrievers are very photogenic. They love to be the center of attention, and always want recognition. That means trying to get a great shot for the 'gram won't be a problem.
8. Goldens are super playful.
golden retriever biting white and pink ballPhoto by Isaac Mehegan on UnsplashAny time is play time! Goldens are professional fetchers. Whether it's a lacrosse ball, tennis ball, field hockey ball, soccer ball, or bowling ball-a golden will try to play with it. Except, sticks, leaves and other animals serve as great distractions to the great game of fetch.
9. There is no argument that they are the CUTEST puppies.
selective focus photography of short-coated brown puppy facing right sidePhoto by Berkay Gumustekin on UnsplashGolden Retriever puppies are essentially balls of fluff with big brown eyes that scream "hug me". The little rascals will get into anything, but its SO hard to say no with that little puppy dog face!
10. Golden are extremely loyal.
man standing near Golden Labrador retriever viewing bridge and high-rise buildingsPhoto by Pontus Wellgraf on UnsplashGoldens will lay by your side when you're sick in bed, they'll bark when a strange car pulls into your driveway, they'll even cry when you arrive home from the grocery store. No other dog shows so much affection and loyalty as a Golden.
11. A Golden Retriever will always love you more than you love them!
golden retriever puppy on focus photoPhoto by Bill Stephan on UnsplashTo any Golden Retriever, you are their whole life, their whole world. They live for when you come home from work/school, and they grieve when you leave. Golden's are a gift sent from God as a reminder that there is good in the world-in the form of your dog.
Photo by Roberto Nickson on Unsplash
1. Bath And Body Works
A girl could never have enough lotion or perfume. You could never go wrong with some Bath and Body Works.
2. An engagement ring
Well, obviously, we're too young to get married, but if you bought me an expensive engagement ring, I would never ever expect you to spend any more money on me for an extra gift. 😉 🙊
3. A promise ring
How could I get mad at you for getting me a ring to show our love for each other? 💍
What is the difference between a promise ring and an engagement ring ?A couple of days back I received this question from a beautiful lady ! She asked and said “Tess ,what is the difference between a ...
4. Any sort of ring
Any sort of ring is expensive and thoughtful and I would most certainly wear it with the utmost appreciation.
Types of latest and trendy Rings with names||THE TRENDY GIRLring #latestringdesigns hey fam! Welcome back to my channel!! I hope you guys are doing well and staying safe! If you liked this ...
5. Lingerie
Not only are bras and underwear expensive, BUT any guy who braves going into Victoria's Secret by themselves deserves an award. LOL! 👀
6. Any kind of exercise gear
Lululemon, Nike, and Under Armor, are even more expensive than lingerie. It's not cheap being a girl who lives in yoga pants. 🧘🏻♀️
Photo by Nicola Styles on Unsplash
7. ...or any kind of clothing at all
I get you clothes sometimes, so it would be perfectly reasonable if I got some from you too. Again, any guy who braves any type of dreadful clothing store deserves an award too.
8. Chocolate
A girl can never have too much chocolate, and a guy who gets a girl chocolate obviously knows the way to her heart. 🍫
9. Anything that can't be exchanged for store credit
I love everything about your style, and since we even have similar style, I am sure I would love whatever you pick out.
Holiday Gift GIF by Dunkin’Giphy
10. A gift card
A Chipotle or even Starbucks gift card and I am yours forever.
11. Something handmade
How adorable, nice, thoughtful and utterly fantastic it would be if you gave me something handmade. It would surely be a present I would never forget and keep forever.
Cute and easy DIY gifts for couplesdiy #handmade #art #homedecor #n #design #craft #doityourself #love #woodworking #crafts #home #interiordesign #diyprojects ...
12. Gloves
Walking to class in winter is never fun, more gloves would be much appreciated.
Photo by Tamara Gak on Unsplash
13. Fake earrings
To be honest, I would much rather you get me fake earrings than spend way too much on diamonds.
14. A picture
Any picture you would give me, whether it's of us or you or a place we've been, I would hold very close to my heart.
Photo by Farica Yang on Unsplash
15. A watch
Again, why would I be mad if you got me a watch? Another perfectly reasonable gift that I would be more than happy to receive.
Michael Kors Women's Pyper Stainless Steel Quartz Watch with Stainless-Steel-Plated Strap, Rose Gold, 16 (Model: MK3897)
16. Anything you also bought your ex
How would I know every present you got for an ex-girlfriend? You may think we know. Trust us, we don't.
Photo by Nguyen Dang Hoang Nhu on Unsplash
17. Tiffany
Another expensive brand that I would be more than grateful to have.
18. A book
As an avid book nerd, I would be more than happy to receive a book. That's a golden gift in my eyes.
City of Thieves: A Novel
19. Anything sports related
A jersey, comfy sweatshirt or sports team t-shirt I would definitely put to great use.
New York Yankees Women's Ballpark Distressed V-Neck T-Shirt (as1, Alpha, m, Regular, Regular) Navy
20. Socks
Maybe even fuzzy socks? Is this Heaven? 🧦
Photo by Rosie Kerr on Unsplash
21. Donations to charity
How could I get mad at you for donating to charity? Someone who gives back to the community, especially during the holidays, is a true angel.
Photo by Katt Yukawa on Unsplash
22. Stuffed animals
Bringing out our inner child is something we both can't hold back from. Having a soft, stuffed animal to cuddle with when you're not there is a perfect solution. 🧸
Aurora® Playful Pompom Penguin™ Mini Stuffed Animal - Vibrant Companions - Endless Fun - Gray 6 Inches
23. Nothing
And I would still love you. 🥰
All in all, my point is that any gift that is given should be greatly appreciated by whoever is receiving it. Whether it's from your boyfriend, best friend or parents -- knowing that someone gave their thoughts and spent their hard-earned money to get you something is more than enough. Remember to thank those who gave you gifts this year during the holidays.
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1. Wonderballs
One of the best candies that always seemed to catch your eyes at grocery store checkouts, leaving you begging your parents to get one.
2. iPod Nanos
The coolest and most colorful way to download your favorite boy bands and Hannah Montana jams.
3. Heelys
This magical shoe that made it fun to run errands with your parents.
4. Dance Dance Revolution.
The game that made the ultimate slumber party.
5. Silly Bandz
The more you had, the cooler you were.
6. "I love boobies" bracelets
The breast cancer bracelets that caused quite the controversy in middle schools.
7. Crimped hair
Because why wouldn't you want your hair to look as stylish as Lizzy McGuire's?
8. The "Muffins" or "Shoes" Youtube videos.
So stupid yet so funny.
9. Club penguin
You had the best pet puffles.
10. Skip Its.
Every garage had one.
11. Bratz Dolls and Polly Pockets.
What's better than oversized eyes and rubber clothing?
12. Baby Bottle Pops
Everyone's favorite cavity-causing candy.
13. Myspace
Where you lied about your age to get on and frequently rearranged your "top friends" lists accordingly.
14. Abercrombie models
Pictures like these were hanging in your room or your Razor phone background if you are a girl, and your inspiration if you were a boy.
15. Ferby
That creepy animal thing that everyone seemed to love.
16. Nerf guns
17. Game Cube
Where you played Mario Kart, Super Smash Brothers, and more.
18. Slip 'N' Slides
The most fun you've ever had took place on one of these things.
19. Easy Bake Ovens
. 
Where real baking did not take place.
20. Dunkaroos
The sugary snack that fit perfectly in your lunch bag.
21. Nintendo DS
The life changing device you probably used to play Nintendogs.
22. Drake & Josh
You strived to be as cool as them.
23. Play-Doh
A parent's worst clean-up nightmare.
24. The Sims 2
A legendary computer game.
25. Razor scooter
There was no cooler way to get around.
StableDiffusion
1. The one who sits in the front row
StableDiffusionThere's at least one of these people in every single class, whether it's a required General Education class or an upper division major course. These students always sit in the front row and ask at least five questions every lecture. They attend all the discussions and office hours, and try to turn in homework at least a week in advance. These are also the people who remind professors about assigned homework and upcoming exams. Nothing bad about being studious, but are they even human?
2. The one who is always online shopping
GiphyIt doesn't matter whether it's fall, winter, spring or summer - these people are online shopping every single lecture. They usually sit a row or few in front of you, and while the professor is lecturing, instead of taking notes or even trying to act like they're listening, they just aimlessly scroll through Aritzia, Forever 21 and Zara. The only time their eyes ever leave their computer screen is when class ends, so they're basically just there for giggles.
3. The one who always falls asleep
GiphyThis person comes to class every day, but somehow never stays awake for more than 20 minutes. You can sometimes hear the occasional snore from a corner of a large lecture hall, or catch their heads nodding like a pendulum near the front of the class if they're the studious type. But let's be real here: we've all been one of those students at some point.
4. The one who never pays attention
GiphyThis category of students is probably the most common. Sure, they'll go to class, but all they do is surf through memes on Facebook or watch others play Fortnite. These people are in class for the attendance grade, not to learn. On occasion, they may raise their hand in class to ask a generic, vague question that has already been covered but hey, gotta get that participation grade. They're just doing everything they can to survive college, and honestly, it's a mood.
5. The one who never studies (but still aces the class)
GiphyStanding as probably the most frustrating category of people in this list, these students won't know about a midterm until two days before. The day before the exam, they'll be chilling in Malibu and partying at night. They go to class every once in a while when the class time doesn't clash with one of their many elaborate social plans, but never pay attention. Somehow, they still ace all their exams and end up with the top grade in the class.
6. The one who is always stressed
GiphyThese people will start studying for a midterm at least two weeks before hand, and will be so stressed about homework and classes that they spend more time worrying about the workload than actually doing the work itself. They're in desperate need of a relaxing vacation that they're too stressed to plan, and they disappear from the outside world for weeks at a time. You can usually find them in a study room in a library, where they probably have been in for the past week.
7. The one you've never seen before
GiphyYou didn't even know that they were in your class to begin with because they never show up until it's exam week. Are they too smart for the class or struggling too hard to care? The world may never know. Maybe they're just straight chilling in their apartments being lazy, but most of time, they probably didn't even put this class on their schedules. Catch them going to Disneyland on a weekday at least once a month, which is more than the frequency that they attend class.
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Jeremiah 29:11
“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord. ‘Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future.’”
It is hard to know what will happen in our life and sometimes it’s scary to think about how we lack that knowledge. But God has said He has great plans for us. He knows what will happen and it is our job to trust and obey Him.
red love free standing letter
Photo by Carl Hunley Jr on Unsplash
Hebrews 6:19
“We have this anchor for the soul, firm and secure.”
Faith can be a tricky thing. “Do I really believe in this? I can’t see God. Is He really there?” These thoughts pass through everyone’s minds at least one point in time. Faith is a huge jump. But the outcome is amazing. Faith can move mountains. We just need to challenge it and figure out what we truly believe.
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
I think it’s easier to say we all get a little fearful in life. Not everything goes as planned and it shakes us up. But it’s important to remember who we’re living for and why. If we’re too afraid to do what God has commanded us to do, we might not get to this place where He needs us to be. He won’t fail us. He won’t leave us. Instead of focusing on fear, try to focus on trusting Him. I know it’s hard, but trusting Him brings us one step closer to Him and where we need to be. And in the end, it will lead to a remarkable gift.
Exodus 14:14
“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
God will never leave us nor forsake us. He is there for us in every little moment of every day. He cares for us and loves us and wants us. It’s always difficult to sit still and let God do His work, especially in a really tough time where we think we can handle things. But the truth is, we can’t. Not without Him.
woman meditating on wooden dock during daytime
Photo by Le Minh Phuong on Unsplash
Luke 1:45
“Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”
This is an amazing reminder to be still and trust in God. He has blessed us and sometimes we take it for granted without realizing it. We need to trust that He will fulfill the promises He has given us. If we take a step back and look at the whole picture, we will realize He has been there for every little thing. He is there and wants us to hear Him. If we believe with all our heart that God will forever and always be there for us, then we will be able to trust Him. What is a better gift there than God? Let go and let God.
Psalm 61:2
“From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”
We all grow weak and weary. We need rest and faith that whatever we are going through, God will guide us. When we’re overwhelmed, it’s easy to shut our emotions off. But instead, we should give it to God. That doesn’t mean give it to Him and forget about it and think it is no longer our problem. Give it to Him and continually pray for it. Ask Him to guide us to that rock and help us defeat this trial.
Photo by Giulia Bertelli on Unsplash
Matthew 6:34
“Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
It is easy to worry and focus on the things going wrong rather than the things going right. When we worry, we are draining ourselves, leaving us tired and weary. And that is exactly what the devil wants. He whispers in our ears all the negative aspects of a day, which can easily lead to anxiety and worry. Be strong and try to focus on the positive things. It’s better to focus on at least one positive thought amongst a thousand negative ones instead of focusing wholly on the negative.
2 Corinthians 5:7
“For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
Faith is built on trust and love, even if we can’t see anything. In some cases, we might not think God is there simply because we can’t see Him. But He is there. We just need help looking at the bigger picture. Having faith isn’t something we say to try and convince ourselves that God is real and alive. It means we are taking a leap into this world, His world, even if we don’t know all the information. It’s okay to doubt sometimes, just as long as it doesn’t keep you from believing in our Savior. Faith is a heart thing. Why say we have a faith when deep down we know we don’t? We need to take that leap and remember that God will be there to catch us. He always has and always will.
person covering the eyes of woman on dark room
Photo by Ryoji Iwata on Unsplash
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