Thursday, November 02, 2006
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Taking Quizzes
Okay, so it's a slow day at work. Between breaks in phone calls I've taken a quiz or two online. I've posted the results of my favorite two quizzes.
The first quiz shows the results to where my European city would be. It says that my European city is Amsterdam. Though I've never been to Amersterdam personally I think I'm going to have to take issue with that quiz result. Come on, I've heard about the naughty things that are allowed in Amersterdam. I'm not to sure I'd feel comfortable there. Then again I don't want to be prejudice against the city, because of the actions of some residents. Maybe I will have to visit Amersterdam sometime during my life time.
The second quiz was one to take to see if you could pass 8th grade math. HA! I CAN PASS!!! and with flying colors. I got 10 out of 10 correct. Take that everyone. And this is from someone who was placed in a lower level math class in 8th grade.
A little more housekeeping here, I wanted to say I hope you all are enjoying my reading of J.A.C. Redford's book, Welcome All Wonders. I'm sorry that my reading of his book is so full of mispronunciations. I can't seem to wrap my tongue around some of his vocabulary. I do love his story though, and I hope each of you are enjoying it as well.
The first quiz shows the results to where my European city would be. It says that my European city is Amsterdam. Though I've never been to Amersterdam personally I think I'm going to have to take issue with that quiz result. Come on, I've heard about the naughty things that are allowed in Amersterdam. I'm not to sure I'd feel comfortable there. Then again I don't want to be prejudice against the city, because of the actions of some residents. Maybe I will have to visit Amersterdam sometime during my life time.
The second quiz was one to take to see if you could pass 8th grade math. HA! I CAN PASS!!! and with flying colors. I got 10 out of 10 correct. Take that everyone. And this is from someone who was placed in a lower level math class in 8th grade.
A little more housekeeping here, I wanted to say I hope you all are enjoying my reading of J.A.C. Redford's book, Welcome All Wonders. I'm sorry that my reading of his book is so full of mispronunciations. I can't seem to wrap my tongue around some of his vocabulary. I do love his story though, and I hope each of you are enjoying it as well.
Yippie...
| You Passed 8th Grade Math |
 |
Could'>http://www.blogthings.com/couldyoupasseighthgrademathquiz/">Could You Pass 8th Grade Math?
Interesting...
| You Belong in Amsterdam |
 |
What European City Do You Belong In?
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Something Profound...
Again, my sister sent me this email (a forward). I found it deserving of publishing, I hope you agree.
This is one of the best explanations of why God allows pain and suffering that I have seen. It's an explanation other people will understand.
A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed. As the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation. They talked about so many things and various subjects. When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said:
"I don't believe that God exists."
"Why do you say that?" asked the customer.
"Well, you just have to go out in the street to realize that God doesn't exist. Tell me, if God exists, would there be so many sick people? Would there be abandoned children? If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain. I can't imagine loving a God who would allow all of these things."
The customer thought for a moment, but didn't respond because he didn't want to start an argument. The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop.
Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long, stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard. He looked dirty and un-kept.
The customer turned back and entered the barber shop again and he said to the barber:
"You know what? Barbers do not exist."
"How can you say that?" asked the surprised barber. "I am here, and I am a barber. And I just worked on you!"
"No!" the customer exclaimed. "Barbers don't exist because if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside."
"Ah, but barbers DO exist! What happens is, people do not come to me."
"Exactly!"- affirmed the customer. "That's the point! God, too, DOES exist! What happens, is, people don't go to Him and do not look for Him. That's why there's so much pain and suffering in the world."
This is one of the best explanations of why God allows pain and suffering that I have seen. It's an explanation other people will understand.
A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed. As the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation. They talked about so many things and various subjects. When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said:
"I don't believe that God exists."
"Why do you say that?" asked the customer.
"Well, you just have to go out in the street to realize that God doesn't exist. Tell me, if God exists, would there be so many sick people? Would there be abandoned children? If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain. I can't imagine loving a God who would allow all of these things."
The customer thought for a moment, but didn't respond because he didn't want to start an argument. The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop.
Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long, stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard. He looked dirty and un-kept.
The customer turned back and entered the barber shop again and he said to the barber:
"You know what? Barbers do not exist."
"How can you say that?" asked the surprised barber. "I am here, and I am a barber. And I just worked on you!"
"No!" the customer exclaimed. "Barbers don't exist because if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside."
"Ah, but barbers DO exist! What happens is, people do not come to me."
"Exactly!"- affirmed the customer. "That's the point! God, too, DOES exist! What happens, is, people don't go to Him and do not look for Him. That's why there's so much pain and suffering in the world."
Monday, October 23, 2006
Friday, October 20, 2006
Something My Sister Sent
How to stay safe in the world today.
1. Avoid riding in automobiles because they are responsible for 20% of all fatal accidents.
2. Do not stay home because 17% of all accidents occur in the home.
3. Avoid walking on streets or sidewalks because 14% of all accidents occur to pedestrians.
4. Avoid traveling by air, rail, or water because 16% of all accidents involve these forms of transportation.
5. Of the remaining 33%, 32% of all deaths occur in Hospitals. So, ... above all else, avoid hospitals.
BUT, ... You will be pleased to learn that only .001% of all deaths occur in worship services in church, and these are usually related to previous physical disorders. Therefore, logic tells us that the safest place for you to be at any given point in time is at church!
And....Bible study is safe too. The percentage of deaths during Bible study is even less. So,...for SAFETY'S sake - Attend church, and read your Bible IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE!
1. Avoid riding in automobiles because they are responsible for 20% of all fatal accidents.
2. Do not stay home because 17% of all accidents occur in the home.
3. Avoid walking on streets or sidewalks because 14% of all accidents occur to pedestrians.
4. Avoid traveling by air, rail, or water because 16% of all accidents involve these forms of transportation.
5. Of the remaining 33%, 32% of all deaths occur in Hospitals. So, ... above all else, avoid hospitals.
BUT, ... You will be pleased to learn that only .001% of all deaths occur in worship services in church, and these are usually related to previous physical disorders. Therefore, logic tells us that the safest place for you to be at any given point in time is at church!
And....Bible study is safe too. The percentage of deaths during Bible study is even less. So,...for SAFETY'S sake - Attend church, and read your Bible IT COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE!
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Going Back in Time...
So, yesterday was a completely frustrating work day. Nothing went my way. All morning into the early afternoon our company website was experiencing some technical difficulties. That even went on to include our email system.
When something of that nature takes place it makes it near impossible for me to get any real work done. Any time I started updating information in our system I would lose my information when our connection was lost.
Later in the afternoon the problem was compounded when we lost internet access completely on several random occassions.
Since getting productive work done was at a standstill yesterday I spent some time reading back into my blog (for some reason in the morning I had easy access to other sites available on the website just not my own company website).
I enjoyed going back in time and reading through those old blog posts. When reading the entries I wrote a year ago it was almost as if I had written them just yesterday. The incidences of the entries were so vivid to my mind. It's simply amazing how time flys by.
Reading through my old entries wasn't just a spur of the moment idea. I've been thinking recently how I should go back through and refresh myself with past life events. I actually get this idea to reread whenever I encounter someone who says they've come across my blog and are reading through it for themselves.
It's in those moments that I ask myself how much have I really shared in my blog. I know when I first started writing in this thing I was real open and out there. At the time I thought my blog could never really interest anyone but my a small handful of my family and friends. I'm learning all the time that more people are interested in the random tidbits of my life than I ever expected. Oh well I'm happy to keep them entertained.
But just know people I'm more aware of you out there, and don't start to expect too much at my expense : )
When something of that nature takes place it makes it near impossible for me to get any real work done. Any time I started updating information in our system I would lose my information when our connection was lost.
Later in the afternoon the problem was compounded when we lost internet access completely on several random occassions.
Since getting productive work done was at a standstill yesterday I spent some time reading back into my blog (for some reason in the morning I had easy access to other sites available on the website just not my own company website).
I enjoyed going back in time and reading through those old blog posts. When reading the entries I wrote a year ago it was almost as if I had written them just yesterday. The incidences of the entries were so vivid to my mind. It's simply amazing how time flys by.
Reading through my old entries wasn't just a spur of the moment idea. I've been thinking recently how I should go back through and refresh myself with past life events. I actually get this idea to reread whenever I encounter someone who says they've come across my blog and are reading through it for themselves.
It's in those moments that I ask myself how much have I really shared in my blog. I know when I first started writing in this thing I was real open and out there. At the time I thought my blog could never really interest anyone but my a small handful of my family and friends. I'm learning all the time that more people are interested in the random tidbits of my life than I ever expected. Oh well I'm happy to keep them entertained.
But just know people I'm more aware of you out there, and don't start to expect too much at my expense : )
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
From Past Generations...
Below is an email sent to myself and others in my family from my Mother's cousin Jackie. Jackie has gone through the trouble of sorting through many of the older papers saved my ancestors. I say ancestors, but that makes the relation seem so far removed. Really, what cousin Jackie is sorting through is papers belonging to my great-grandmother.
Personally, I was touched by the poems that Jackie found and sent to us and wanted to share them with all of you. Some of these written words made me laugh, others were a little more sobering. Mostly I was interested by their styling and how it reflects a period of old.
I'll start by sharing the email Jackie sent to indtroduce these works (I think it'll give you some important background).
Jackie's voice Still weeding through things and today's found things Irene and Beany (my great aunts on my mother's side) had separated for me from Grandmommie's (my great-grandmother) trunk. I think some of the little thoughts/poems she saved show a lot about her character and I want to share them with you all. We are all blessed to have her as part of ourheritage. The newspapers are all clippings, yellowed and brittle, no dates on them but something in each one made her cut it out and save it. It gives us all glimpse into things that mattered to her.She saved longer ones also and liked religious thoughts but the sampling below I think shows how she felt towards her family and others. I never heard her say anything bad about others and she loved her children and grandchildren so very much. A nice legacy of caring and love. The first one is a good example of being non-judgmental and seeing the goodness in others, and I know from memory she lived that.
Love you all,
Jackie
By Robert Louis Stevenson
In men whom men condemn as ill,
I find so much of goodness still.
In men whom men pronounce divine,
I find so much of sin and blot,
I hesitate to draw the line
Between the two where God has not.
God's Favored by Katherine Edelman
God gave to some of us below
Some special gift or grace:
A skillful hand, high intellect,
Beauty of form or face.
But to the greatest number,
(These He must love the best)
He gave the happy, trusting heart
And courage for Life's test.
No author listed, old cracked newsprint
This morning he tracked up my kitchen
Which I had cleaned all spick and span,
And never once said he was sorry--
When I scolded he chuckled and ran.
He took my best shoes from the closet
To use in constructing a train,
And hammered the lid of a kettleTill
I never can use it again.
He captured the switch on my dresser
For his horsie that needed a tail,
And I'm sure he's been into the sugar,
For it's scattered 'round outside the pail.
But now as I sit by the firelight
With his drowsy head close to my breast
I know I should still love him madly
Tho' he battered up all I possessed.
The Three Old Ladies by Mary Mapes Dodge
There was an old lady all dress in silk
Who lived upon lemons and buttermilk;
And, thinking the world was a sour old place,
She carried its acid all over her face.
Another old lady, all dressed in patches,
Lived upon nothing but lucifer matches;
So the world, it made her strangle and cough,
And sure as you rubbed her you set her off.
Another old lady, all sunny and neat,
Who lived upon sugar and everything sweet,
Exclaimed, when she heard of their troubles,
"I never!For the world is so nice I could live on forever."
Now, children, take your choice
Of the food your hearts shall eat;
There are sourish thoughts and brimstone thoughts,
And thoughts all good and sweet;
And whatever the heart feeds on,
Dear children, trust to me,
Is precisely what this queer old world
Will seem to you to be.
When All the World Forgets You - author unknown - for a mother with 8 children I found this sweet (it was my great-grandmother who had the 8 children).
When all the great lights beckon to you,
And you seek the bright and gay,
When new friends and fancies call you
As you drift along the way,
You know not what the world may see,
You never have a care,
You never think of home, sweet home,
Or the one who's waiting there.
When all the world forgets you,
And you find yourself alone,
When all your friends desert you
And you are far from home,
Remember, there is someone
Who loves and always will--
When all the world forgets you
There's a mother waiting still.
There comes a time to each one,
When your greatest hope will fail;
When your friends you thought the truest,
Leave you far beyond the trail.
'Tis then your thoughts drift back again
To the home you once held true.
And the lonely heart that's watching there
And waiting still for you.
The Mother - author unknown
Yes, it's hard labor to cook for 'em,
Read up new things in the book for 'em,
Beat things an' stir 'em an' baste for 'em,
Hurry and flurry an' haste for 'em,
Get all excited and "het" for 'em,
Sizzle and sozzle an' sweat for 'em
Still, when the job is all done for 'em,
Eatin' the dinner's such fun for 'em,
Why, I just love to be near 'em,
Seein' how good things appear to 'em,
Father's as bad as the rest of 'em,
Eating as much as the best of 'em.
Thankful--dear God for the whole of 'em,
Body an' breath and' the soul of 'em,
Nothing, I say is too fine for 'em,
Darlings-- the whole lusty nine of 'em,
We have to work for the keep of 'em,
But, ah--the reward that we reap of 'em!
Who is Richer? Author unknown
Who is richer than the farmer?
Who has nobler work to do?
He, whom all the world depends on
Owns, a treasure known to few:
Owns the sky and all the sunshine.
Owns the hills, the woods, the creek;
Owns the landscape all about him
Far as searching eye can seek.
No, 'tis not in gold and silver
That the farmer marks his gain
'Tis the joy and wealth of freedom
As he tills his field of grain,
As he gathers in his harvest,
As he sows them out again .
In his work he finds his sermons
Learns from Nature's book that God
In the eternal round of seasons,
Brings fulfillment for His Word.
Too Busy to Live (Commended to Persons Afflicted with Hurryitis) by Grenville Kleiser in the Detroit Free Press
He hadn't time to greet the day,
He hadn't time to laugh or play;
He hadn't time to wait a while,
He hadn't time to give a smile;
He hadn't time to glean the news,
He hadn't time to dream or muse;
He hadn't time to train his mind,
He hadn't time to just be kind;
He hadn't time to see a joke,
He hadn't time to write his folk;
He hadn't time to eat a meal,
He hadn't time to deeply feel;
He hadn't time to take a rest,
He hadn't time to act his best;
He hadn't time to help a cause,
He hadn't time to make a pause;
He hadn't time to pen a note,
He hadn't time to cast a vote;
He hadn't time to sing a song,
He hadn't time to right a wrong;
He hadn't time to send a gift,
He hadn't time to practice thrift.
He hadn't time to exercise,
He hadn't time to scan the skies;
He hadn't time to heed a cry,
He hadn't time to to say good-bye;
He hadn't time to study poise,
He hadn't time to repress noise;
He hadn't time to go abroad,
He hadn't time to serve his God
He hadn't time to lend or give,
He hadn't time to really live;
He hadn't time to read this verse,
He hadn't time -- he's in a hearse.
Personally, I was touched by the poems that Jackie found and sent to us and wanted to share them with all of you. Some of these written words made me laugh, others were a little more sobering. Mostly I was interested by their styling and how it reflects a period of old.
I'll start by sharing the email Jackie sent to indtroduce these works (I think it'll give you some important background).
Jackie's voice Still weeding through things and today's found things Irene and Beany (my great aunts on my mother's side) had separated for me from Grandmommie's (my great-grandmother) trunk. I think some of the little thoughts/poems she saved show a lot about her character and I want to share them with you all. We are all blessed to have her as part of ourheritage. The newspapers are all clippings, yellowed and brittle, no dates on them but something in each one made her cut it out and save it. It gives us all glimpse into things that mattered to her.She saved longer ones also and liked religious thoughts but the sampling below I think shows how she felt towards her family and others. I never heard her say anything bad about others and she loved her children and grandchildren so very much. A nice legacy of caring and love. The first one is a good example of being non-judgmental and seeing the goodness in others, and I know from memory she lived that.
Love you all,
Jackie
By Robert Louis Stevenson
In men whom men condemn as ill,
I find so much of goodness still.
In men whom men pronounce divine,
I find so much of sin and blot,
I hesitate to draw the line
Between the two where God has not.
God's Favored by Katherine Edelman
God gave to some of us below
Some special gift or grace:
A skillful hand, high intellect,
Beauty of form or face.
But to the greatest number,
(These He must love the best)
He gave the happy, trusting heart
And courage for Life's test.
No author listed, old cracked newsprint
This morning he tracked up my kitchen
Which I had cleaned all spick and span,
And never once said he was sorry--
When I scolded he chuckled and ran.
He took my best shoes from the closet
To use in constructing a train,
And hammered the lid of a kettleTill
I never can use it again.
He captured the switch on my dresser
For his horsie that needed a tail,
And I'm sure he's been into the sugar,
For it's scattered 'round outside the pail.
But now as I sit by the firelight
With his drowsy head close to my breast
I know I should still love him madly
Tho' he battered up all I possessed.
The Three Old Ladies by Mary Mapes Dodge
There was an old lady all dress in silk
Who lived upon lemons and buttermilk;
And, thinking the world was a sour old place,
She carried its acid all over her face.
Another old lady, all dressed in patches,
Lived upon nothing but lucifer matches;
So the world, it made her strangle and cough,
And sure as you rubbed her you set her off.
Another old lady, all sunny and neat,
Who lived upon sugar and everything sweet,
Exclaimed, when she heard of their troubles,
"I never!For the world is so nice I could live on forever."
Now, children, take your choice
Of the food your hearts shall eat;
There are sourish thoughts and brimstone thoughts,
And thoughts all good and sweet;
And whatever the heart feeds on,
Dear children, trust to me,
Is precisely what this queer old world
Will seem to you to be.
When All the World Forgets You - author unknown - for a mother with 8 children I found this sweet (it was my great-grandmother who had the 8 children).
When all the great lights beckon to you,
And you seek the bright and gay,
When new friends and fancies call you
As you drift along the way,
You know not what the world may see,
You never have a care,
You never think of home, sweet home,
Or the one who's waiting there.
When all the world forgets you,
And you find yourself alone,
When all your friends desert you
And you are far from home,
Remember, there is someone
Who loves and always will--
When all the world forgets you
There's a mother waiting still.
There comes a time to each one,
When your greatest hope will fail;
When your friends you thought the truest,
Leave you far beyond the trail.
'Tis then your thoughts drift back again
To the home you once held true.
And the lonely heart that's watching there
And waiting still for you.
The Mother - author unknown
Yes, it's hard labor to cook for 'em,
Read up new things in the book for 'em,
Beat things an' stir 'em an' baste for 'em,
Hurry and flurry an' haste for 'em,
Get all excited and "het" for 'em,
Sizzle and sozzle an' sweat for 'em
Still, when the job is all done for 'em,
Eatin' the dinner's such fun for 'em,
Why, I just love to be near 'em,
Seein' how good things appear to 'em,
Father's as bad as the rest of 'em,
Eating as much as the best of 'em.
Thankful--dear God for the whole of 'em,
Body an' breath and' the soul of 'em,
Nothing, I say is too fine for 'em,
Darlings-- the whole lusty nine of 'em,
We have to work for the keep of 'em,
But, ah--the reward that we reap of 'em!
Who is Richer? Author unknown
Who is richer than the farmer?
Who has nobler work to do?
He, whom all the world depends on
Owns, a treasure known to few:
Owns the sky and all the sunshine.
Owns the hills, the woods, the creek;
Owns the landscape all about him
Far as searching eye can seek.
No, 'tis not in gold and silver
That the farmer marks his gain
'Tis the joy and wealth of freedom
As he tills his field of grain,
As he gathers in his harvest,
As he sows them out again .
In his work he finds his sermons
Learns from Nature's book that God
In the eternal round of seasons,
Brings fulfillment for His Word.
Too Busy to Live (Commended to Persons Afflicted with Hurryitis) by Grenville Kleiser in the Detroit Free Press
He hadn't time to greet the day,
He hadn't time to laugh or play;
He hadn't time to wait a while,
He hadn't time to give a smile;
He hadn't time to glean the news,
He hadn't time to dream or muse;
He hadn't time to train his mind,
He hadn't time to just be kind;
He hadn't time to see a joke,
He hadn't time to write his folk;
He hadn't time to eat a meal,
He hadn't time to deeply feel;
He hadn't time to take a rest,
He hadn't time to act his best;
He hadn't time to help a cause,
He hadn't time to make a pause;
He hadn't time to pen a note,
He hadn't time to cast a vote;
He hadn't time to sing a song,
He hadn't time to right a wrong;
He hadn't time to send a gift,
He hadn't time to practice thrift.
He hadn't time to exercise,
He hadn't time to scan the skies;
He hadn't time to heed a cry,
He hadn't time to to say good-bye;
He hadn't time to study poise,
He hadn't time to repress noise;
He hadn't time to go abroad,
He hadn't time to serve his God
He hadn't time to lend or give,
He hadn't time to really live;
He hadn't time to read this verse,
He hadn't time -- he's in a hearse.
Monday, October 09, 2006
On a Crusade...
I'm going to tirelessly vent this subject until I'm happy that everyone across this great nation is being treated fairly. On that note, let's talk GAS PRICES again. Yes, I know I mentioned my ire at gas prices a week or so back, but I'm still irate, so let's talk about it again.
Last night while watching the news the reporters shared with glee at my overpriced gas predicament that they found gas priced at $1.87 in Fredricksburg, Virginia. UGH, and here I'm in Salt Lake City, Utah where gas is at the average price of $2.54. Where's the fairness in this??
Okay, now before some of you get your knickers in a knot. I realize that gas prices here in Utah are cheaper than some other states. And I'm certainly aware that gas prices in the United States are generally cheaper than many other countries. I realize it's a gross unjustice to anyone living in the those areas and you're thinking I should be grateful for my current gas price.
Now that we've gotten through some of your arguments let's talk about the unfairness that I'm experiencing here. I'm talking about a whole $.67 difference between Virginia and Utah, WHY??? That's my big question, why is there such a discrepency between the prices? Why can't Utahns get their gas for $1.87 if Virginians are? Would it help if the people in charge knew I was really just a Virginian living in Utah?
All I want is to be about to save $6.70 the next time I buy 10 gallons of gas for my car. Really is that too much to ask? I think not!
Last night while watching the news the reporters shared with glee at my overpriced gas predicament that they found gas priced at $1.87 in Fredricksburg, Virginia. UGH, and here I'm in Salt Lake City, Utah where gas is at the average price of $2.54. Where's the fairness in this??
Okay, now before some of you get your knickers in a knot. I realize that gas prices here in Utah are cheaper than some other states. And I'm certainly aware that gas prices in the United States are generally cheaper than many other countries. I realize it's a gross unjustice to anyone living in the those areas and you're thinking I should be grateful for my current gas price.
Now that we've gotten through some of your arguments let's talk about the unfairness that I'm experiencing here. I'm talking about a whole $.67 difference between Virginia and Utah, WHY??? That's my big question, why is there such a discrepency between the prices? Why can't Utahns get their gas for $1.87 if Virginians are? Would it help if the people in charge knew I was really just a Virginian living in Utah?
All I want is to be about to save $6.70 the next time I buy 10 gallons of gas for my car. Really is that too much to ask? I think not!
Thursday, October 05, 2006
What I Want...
Ever struggle with wanting something so bad, only to have it sift through your fingers? Of course you have...and if your answer is still "no" after my emphatic "of course you have" then we need to talk (I want to learn your secret).
Without going into all the juicy details I'll admit that I lost something this evening that I've wanted for quite a while. I also don't see much hope in ever regaining what I thought I wanted (even still do want).
I'll let you all know, that I realize the problem I'm facing is my own darn fault. I know that in order to make it all better I've got to be looking for a different answer. It just so happens that I've got that answer staring me right in the face (at this very moment).
Ephesians 3:20-21
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."
Now I'm sure you'll be wanting your explanation. Well here goes, to the best of my ability I'll try and explain my random thought process.
I'll start by saying we all have this tendency to read, pay attention, or hear just what we want to. I for one have read the above passage more times than I could possibly count and each time my attention always focused on the line, "...to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine..." That was like my "genie in a bottle" passage. I'd ask for the deepest desire of my heart and if God didn't come through with it, I could take that as a promise that He was going to one up me with something even better.
Here's a little secret about women, most single christian females view this passage as a promise when facing the heartbreak of another failed relationship. We smile through our tears and say, well that guy wasn't for me, that just means God's got someone even better for me. I'm not saying that we're reading this wrong, but it's just that WE'RE READING IT WRONG!! Why is the comment always, "God must have SOMEONE better for me"? Shouldn't it be more like, "God has got SOMETHING better for me"?
I don't want to limit God's power in my life by telling Him that it's better that I have someone and not something. In keeping with the real honest theme I've got going here, I can't say that it isn't hard to let go of an idea that it needs to be "someone".
Okay, now I'm just getting really off track from my original thought. As I was saying earlier we all have a tendency to hear just what we want to and to tune out all the rest. I realized this evening that I had been turning a blind eye to much of what the above passage said all these years. That passage was about HIM (God), not about ME (Jenn)!!! All these years I read it like it was about what God would do for me. Tonight for the first time I understood that it was about what I was doing for God (albeit through His power - hey I'm nothing compared to Him what did I think I could do on my own). Through His power in my life I'm to be bringing glory to God.
That's just the reminder I needed tonight. No wallowing in self-pity for Jenn over things I can't have. I just needed to remember that I'm here to be bringing glory and honor to God. I'm feeling better already!!
Without going into all the juicy details I'll admit that I lost something this evening that I've wanted for quite a while. I also don't see much hope in ever regaining what I thought I wanted (even still do want).
I'll let you all know, that I realize the problem I'm facing is my own darn fault. I know that in order to make it all better I've got to be looking for a different answer. It just so happens that I've got that answer staring me right in the face (at this very moment).
Ephesians 3:20-21
"Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen."
Now I'm sure you'll be wanting your explanation. Well here goes, to the best of my ability I'll try and explain my random thought process.
I'll start by saying we all have this tendency to read, pay attention, or hear just what we want to. I for one have read the above passage more times than I could possibly count and each time my attention always focused on the line, "...to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine..." That was like my "genie in a bottle" passage. I'd ask for the deepest desire of my heart and if God didn't come through with it, I could take that as a promise that He was going to one up me with something even better.
Here's a little secret about women, most single christian females view this passage as a promise when facing the heartbreak of another failed relationship. We smile through our tears and say, well that guy wasn't for me, that just means God's got someone even better for me. I'm not saying that we're reading this wrong, but it's just that WE'RE READING IT WRONG!! Why is the comment always, "God must have SOMEONE better for me"? Shouldn't it be more like, "God has got SOMETHING better for me"?
I don't want to limit God's power in my life by telling Him that it's better that I have someone and not something. In keeping with the real honest theme I've got going here, I can't say that it isn't hard to let go of an idea that it needs to be "someone".
Okay, now I'm just getting really off track from my original thought. As I was saying earlier we all have a tendency to hear just what we want to and to tune out all the rest. I realized this evening that I had been turning a blind eye to much of what the above passage said all these years. That passage was about HIM (God), not about ME (Jenn)!!! All these years I read it like it was about what God would do for me. Tonight for the first time I understood that it was about what I was doing for God (albeit through His power - hey I'm nothing compared to Him what did I think I could do on my own). Through His power in my life I'm to be bringing glory to God.
That's just the reminder I needed tonight. No wallowing in self-pity for Jenn over things I can't have. I just needed to remember that I'm here to be bringing glory and honor to God. I'm feeling better already!!
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Weather Changes
Back on September 16th it snowed for the first time in the season here in Salt Lake City. Then it preceded to stay cold like winter there for about a week and a half. I was sure we had gone directly from Summer to Winter (mostly because the week before the snow it had been in the 90's).
I guess I was wrong. Last week it started to warm up again and this week has also been rather pleasant. It feels like Fall again : )
I love Fall!! I mean really what's not to like about Fall. There's the beautiful array of colors found in the trees. The nice crisp feel in the air.
I'm so glad we have Fall now in Utah!!
I guess I was wrong. Last week it started to warm up again and this week has also been rather pleasant. It feels like Fall again : )
I love Fall!! I mean really what's not to like about Fall. There's the beautiful array of colors found in the trees. The nice crisp feel in the air.
I'm so glad we have Fall now in Utah!!
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Think About It...
I have my sister to thank for finding this little nugget.
I was shocked, confused, bewildered
as I entered Heaven's door
Not by the beauty of it all
nor by the lights or its decor.
But it was the folks in Heaven
that made me sputter and gasp-
the thieves, the liars, the sinners,
the alcoholics, the trash
There stood the kid from seventh grade
who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbor
who never said anything nice.
Herb, who I always thought
was rotting away in hell,
was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
looking incredibly well.
I nudged Jesus, "What's the deal?
I'd love to hear Your take.
How'd these sinners get up here?
God must've made a mistake"
"And why's everyone so quiet,
so somber? Give me a clue."
"Hush, child," said He "they're all in shock.
No one thought they'd be seeing you."
I was shocked, confused, bewildered
as I entered Heaven's door
Not by the beauty of it all
nor by the lights or its decor.
But it was the folks in Heaven
that made me sputter and gasp-
the thieves, the liars, the sinners,
the alcoholics, the trash
There stood the kid from seventh grade
who swiped my lunch money twice.
Next to him was my old neighbor
who never said anything nice.
Herb, who I always thought
was rotting away in hell,
was sitting pretty on cloud nine,
looking incredibly well.
I nudged Jesus, "What's the deal?
I'd love to hear Your take.
How'd these sinners get up here?
God must've made a mistake"
"And why's everyone so quiet,
so somber? Give me a clue."
"Hush, child," said He "they're all in shock.
No one thought they'd be seeing you."
Friday, September 22, 2006
Getting Jacked...
You want to know who's getting jacked (and doesn't have a lot of say in the matter), ME that's who. Well, me and the almost entire state of Utah.
We Utahans have sat by in the last couple of weeks and watched while gas prices all across the country have steadily dropped. The problem (and you can probably guess where I'm going) is that our gas prices have stayed about the same (maybe they've dropped about $.05 but that's all).
The Utah state Govnenor is at present investigating price gouging that might be occurring. Earlier this week the Govenor did some informal investigations and came up and with and I quote, "Utahans are getting shafted!" That's right!!! While the rest of the country has an average gas price of $2.44 the state average for Utah is about $.40 higher (NOT FAIR).
I'm not a conspiracy theorist by any stretch, but I have a theory now as to why are prices are still high in Utah. It's all Bush's doing!!!
See I was reading yesterday about how President Bush's approval rating is rising as the gas prices are dropping. Well the way I figure it what does Bush care about the gas prices of little ol' Utah I mean we're going to vote republican hell or high water. With the republican vote securely in the politians pockets for Utah it's not a large concern about appeasing us with lower gas prices. They're probably even subsidizing the nation's lowered gas prices with the higher prices that Utahans are paying.
So, I might not have any hard facts to back any of these raging allegations up with. I guess that's why it's only my theory (and probably not an even clever theory), but it works for me.
What do you think? I'd like to hear your explanations.
We Utahans have sat by in the last couple of weeks and watched while gas prices all across the country have steadily dropped. The problem (and you can probably guess where I'm going) is that our gas prices have stayed about the same (maybe they've dropped about $.05 but that's all).
The Utah state Govnenor is at present investigating price gouging that might be occurring. Earlier this week the Govenor did some informal investigations and came up and with and I quote, "Utahans are getting shafted!" That's right!!! While the rest of the country has an average gas price of $2.44 the state average for Utah is about $.40 higher (NOT FAIR).
I'm not a conspiracy theorist by any stretch, but I have a theory now as to why are prices are still high in Utah. It's all Bush's doing!!!
See I was reading yesterday about how President Bush's approval rating is rising as the gas prices are dropping. Well the way I figure it what does Bush care about the gas prices of little ol' Utah I mean we're going to vote republican hell or high water. With the republican vote securely in the politians pockets for Utah it's not a large concern about appeasing us with lower gas prices. They're probably even subsidizing the nation's lowered gas prices with the higher prices that Utahans are paying.
So, I might not have any hard facts to back any of these raging allegations up with. I guess that's why it's only my theory (and probably not an even clever theory), but it works for me.
What do you think? I'd like to hear your explanations.
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
What Don't We Need...
I recently read where someone went onto www.google.com and started typing their name followed by the word "needs"
example:
Jenn needs
Then what came up first they would write it down and pass it along. Well, I was a little bored today and to kill some time between work obligations I searched the needs of some of my friends. Now if you're one of my good friends and don't see your name listed, don't get your underthings all in a bunch its just because your "needs" on google were pretty boring.
Jenn needs theological studies [hmmm...isn't that interesting i've been praying about that for months now]
Emily needs to be told, "NO, there are certain things that just are NOT allowed."
Brendan needs the undivided attention of his mother or father every minute that he is awake.
Stephanie needs some help Look at those pants!
Jake needs to Jack It Up.
Brent needs a date for our trip to Las Vegas.
Lana needs a boy her own age.
Jesse needs your help!
Lisa needs braces.
Mike needs a date!
John needs to get his patootie back here Chit Chat.
Joel needs to live with a family until he is old enough to look after himself.
Tommy needs your help to keep his mouth shut.
Josh needs a holiday or just a cuddle.
Dustin needs to hit the weights...his arms have always been skinny for his size.
Nate needs as many game situation kicks as possible in my opinion.
Kyle needs a strong male presence.
Well, that's all for now folks. I hope you enjoyed my little name show.
example:
Jenn needs
Then what came up first they would write it down and pass it along. Well, I was a little bored today and to kill some time between work obligations I searched the needs of some of my friends. Now if you're one of my good friends and don't see your name listed, don't get your underthings all in a bunch its just because your "needs" on google were pretty boring.
Jenn needs theological studies [hmmm...isn't that interesting i've been praying about that for months now]
Emily needs to be told, "NO, there are certain things that just are NOT allowed."
Brendan needs the undivided attention of his mother or father every minute that he is awake.
Stephanie needs some help Look at those pants!
Jake needs to Jack It Up.
Brent needs a date for our trip to Las Vegas.
Lana needs a boy her own age.
Jesse needs your help!
Lisa needs braces.
Mike needs a date!
John needs to get his patootie back here Chit Chat.
Joel needs to live with a family until he is old enough to look after himself.
Tommy needs your help to keep his mouth shut.
Josh needs a holiday or just a cuddle.
Dustin needs to hit the weights...his arms have always been skinny for his size.
Nate needs as many game situation kicks as possible in my opinion.
Kyle needs a strong male presence.
Well, that's all for now folks. I hope you enjoyed my little name show.
Monday, September 11, 2006
Family...
People are continually amazed when I tell them that I left all my family and friends back in Virginia and moved 2,000 miles across country to live in Utah. These same people usually ask the standard questions, "You mean to tell me you don't have any family out here in Utah?" or "Why would you move where you don't have any family or friends?"
I can understand where those questions are coming from, for I can't say that I haven't asked myself those questions a time or two. There have certainly been moments when I've been lonely for my family or the long standing friendships I have back in Virginia. There have been family events (like my Grandmother's 80th birthday party yesterday) that I've missed and felt lonesome for. I admit all this because I don't want you to think that my family is any less important to me for what I'm about to say.
You see, what I would tell all these people that think I'm some courageous young woman who gave up all her family and friends to move out west, is that I never really gave up anything. I drove across country and settled in Utah to find more of my family. And now that I've thoroughly confused you with my talk of not having family in Utah and then coming to find more of my family let me take a moment to explain.
The family I've found here in Utah is blood of my blood through the blood of Christ. Each and everyone of us in this family of ours has had lives saved by the blood of our savior Jesus Christ. Each of us (wherever we found ourselves - in any circumstance or age) said to God I know you sent your son Jesus to earth, that he lived a life without sin, that he went to the cross with all my sin, and he overcame death to live again - that is when the blood of Jesus covered us and we joined the family of God with other "blood relatives".
Wherever I am, whether it's Virginia, Utah, Africa or Antartica when I meet someone who has accepted the gift of Jesus' saving blood, it is there that I found my family.
To share with you the special blessing that I've found in this family, I'm going to tell you about my day yesterday. On the whole yesterday was no different from any other day. I started my morning like any other Sunday and went around with a smile on my face. Though on the inside I was hurting; just sad and grieving. I couldn't help but think of a friend I lost two years ago to suicide. His death was a tragic loss of life, and made even more so by the knowledge that this young man not only didn't acknowledge Jesus as his savior but even turned his anger and bitterness towards God.
It was yesterday during church service when I was touched by memories of this friend and his death. I began crying uncontrollably during the service when we shared communion (a symbolic reminder of Christ's body and blood that was broken in death) together. See, for me communion is a bittersweet reminder of the life that Christ gave that I might have a life of my own. Jesus died that I might live, and I willing accept His gift and want Jesus (very much alive now) to be part of my life. Yet, as I shared communion with my family of believers I couldn't help but think of my friend now lost to us, that never really understood Christ's love or gift of life.
Now before you start thinking that this blog entry is going to be all "preachy" I'll get back to the idea of family. Atleast though you now have the context of how I was feeling and my need for comfort. That's what is so wonderful about the family of Christ, I had all sorts of wonderful comfort from a loving and caring family.
Even when I was crying at church there was a friend there to put their arm around me and let me know that they cared. After church services I had the wonderful distraction of going ice skating with five year old Savannah (her parents are friends of mine from church) who had never been ice skating before. After spending the afternoon with Savannah I was able to call a sister of mine from church, Becky, and she invited me to her home so I wouldn't be feeling sad and alone. Becky and her two sons took me out biking riding and then we had dinner together. After dinner when Becky's sons went to bed, Becky and I were able to talk and she even prayed for me as I was feeling loss over my friend's suicide.
I guess what I'm saying with all this is that even though I'm away from my immediate family in Virginia, who would usually be there with a comforting hug or a shoulder to cry on, I still have all those wonderful blessings from the family I found here in Utah. How thankful I am to God for providing a family that loves and cares for me when I need it most.
I can understand where those questions are coming from, for I can't say that I haven't asked myself those questions a time or two. There have certainly been moments when I've been lonely for my family or the long standing friendships I have back in Virginia. There have been family events (like my Grandmother's 80th birthday party yesterday) that I've missed and felt lonesome for. I admit all this because I don't want you to think that my family is any less important to me for what I'm about to say.
You see, what I would tell all these people that think I'm some courageous young woman who gave up all her family and friends to move out west, is that I never really gave up anything. I drove across country and settled in Utah to find more of my family. And now that I've thoroughly confused you with my talk of not having family in Utah and then coming to find more of my family let me take a moment to explain.
The family I've found here in Utah is blood of my blood through the blood of Christ. Each and everyone of us in this family of ours has had lives saved by the blood of our savior Jesus Christ. Each of us (wherever we found ourselves - in any circumstance or age) said to God I know you sent your son Jesus to earth, that he lived a life without sin, that he went to the cross with all my sin, and he overcame death to live again - that is when the blood of Jesus covered us and we joined the family of God with other "blood relatives".
Wherever I am, whether it's Virginia, Utah, Africa or Antartica when I meet someone who has accepted the gift of Jesus' saving blood, it is there that I found my family.
To share with you the special blessing that I've found in this family, I'm going to tell you about my day yesterday. On the whole yesterday was no different from any other day. I started my morning like any other Sunday and went around with a smile on my face. Though on the inside I was hurting; just sad and grieving. I couldn't help but think of a friend I lost two years ago to suicide. His death was a tragic loss of life, and made even more so by the knowledge that this young man not only didn't acknowledge Jesus as his savior but even turned his anger and bitterness towards God.
It was yesterday during church service when I was touched by memories of this friend and his death. I began crying uncontrollably during the service when we shared communion (a symbolic reminder of Christ's body and blood that was broken in death) together. See, for me communion is a bittersweet reminder of the life that Christ gave that I might have a life of my own. Jesus died that I might live, and I willing accept His gift and want Jesus (very much alive now) to be part of my life. Yet, as I shared communion with my family of believers I couldn't help but think of my friend now lost to us, that never really understood Christ's love or gift of life.
Now before you start thinking that this blog entry is going to be all "preachy" I'll get back to the idea of family. Atleast though you now have the context of how I was feeling and my need for comfort. That's what is so wonderful about the family of Christ, I had all sorts of wonderful comfort from a loving and caring family.
Even when I was crying at church there was a friend there to put their arm around me and let me know that they cared. After church services I had the wonderful distraction of going ice skating with five year old Savannah (her parents are friends of mine from church) who had never been ice skating before. After spending the afternoon with Savannah I was able to call a sister of mine from church, Becky, and she invited me to her home so I wouldn't be feeling sad and alone. Becky and her two sons took me out biking riding and then we had dinner together. After dinner when Becky's sons went to bed, Becky and I were able to talk and she even prayed for me as I was feeling loss over my friend's suicide.
I guess what I'm saying with all this is that even though I'm away from my immediate family in Virginia, who would usually be there with a comforting hug or a shoulder to cry on, I still have all those wonderful blessings from the family I found here in Utah. How thankful I am to God for providing a family that loves and cares for me when I need it most.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Nine Months...
I think I understand now the feeling I hear from most pregnant women as they approach their delivery date. No, I'm not pregnant. I'm not gaining empathy from that personal of an experience. My experience is a little less related, but somehow my mind made the correlation.
My experience revolves around a key chain that I've now owned for nine months (aha, correlation). You see I like this key chain, it was given to me by a good friend and reminds me to think of this person whenever I notice it. The problem with this key chain is its attachment. It simply doesn't want to stay attached to my key ring. Everyday I have to screw it on a little tighter for it to stay attached (atleast three times a day).
Whenever I pick up my keys I have to check my key chain and if I don't the key chain simply falls off. And I don't want to lose this key chain (again it reminds me of my good friend).
There's more to this correlation between pregnancy and my key chain than just nine months. I think it has to do with feelings and a need to be done. See, I've had this key chain for nine months now and as much as I like the key chain I'm ready to be done with it. It's something about the magic of nine months. You can put up with about anything annoying for about nine months, but when you hit that magic mark you can't take it any more.
Well, I simply can't take the loose key chain anymore. I'm thinking of giving it a special place in retirement.
Good friend out there don't be offended. You're special key chain is going to hold a place of honor in my home...I'm thinking refrigerator!!!
My experience revolves around a key chain that I've now owned for nine months (aha, correlation). You see I like this key chain, it was given to me by a good friend and reminds me to think of this person whenever I notice it. The problem with this key chain is its attachment. It simply doesn't want to stay attached to my key ring. Everyday I have to screw it on a little tighter for it to stay attached (atleast three times a day).
Whenever I pick up my keys I have to check my key chain and if I don't the key chain simply falls off. And I don't want to lose this key chain (again it reminds me of my good friend).
There's more to this correlation between pregnancy and my key chain than just nine months. I think it has to do with feelings and a need to be done. See, I've had this key chain for nine months now and as much as I like the key chain I'm ready to be done with it. It's something about the magic of nine months. You can put up with about anything annoying for about nine months, but when you hit that magic mark you can't take it any more.
Well, I simply can't take the loose key chain anymore. I'm thinking of giving it a special place in retirement.
Good friend out there don't be offended. You're special key chain is going to hold a place of honor in my home...I'm thinking refrigerator!!!
Thursday, September 07, 2006
In On the News...
Okay, between receiving the Deseret Morning News (newspaper) at my home and watching the morning news on t.v. while preparing for work each morning, I'm fairly in the know. And all I have to say on the matter is how depressing. I know that's what everyone always says about the news, that it's mostly just bad news, but here of late that's been quite true (well at least in Utah).
For starters, here's the story of a five year old girl that was starved almost to death by her mother's boyfriend. The mother had been deployed to Iraq and left her daughter in the custody of her boyfriend (whom she trusted from their two year relationship). The boyfriend was also given access to the mother's checking account to help the cost of taking care of her daughter. The checking account was bled dry for a drug habit and the daughter was starved. On t.v. they're showing pictures of this little girl's body and it's like seeing holocaust victims all over again.
So this next story doesn't take place in Utah and it's not as horrifying as a five year old being starved to death, but the news clip (on t.v.) did catch my eye. A reporter in San Diego uncovered a real estate scam and was interviewing one of the victims, when the alledged perpetrators arrived on the scene. If you could see this video clip you'd realize why it caught my attention, it was an absolute circus. The reporter was a professional in the face of all the abuse, but those bringing about the beating were ridiculous (acting like little children throwing a tantrum).
Of course Warren Jeffs (the leader of the Fundalmentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Days Saints) has been in the news. Since May, Jeffs has been on the FBI's most wanted list and recently he was arrested about five miles outside of Las Vegas during a routine traffic stop. Jeffs is being charged with the unlawful marriages of teenage girls (subsequently resulting in rape). At this time Jeffs is in solitary confinment at Purgatory (the name of the prison located in Hurricane, Utah). Now with Jeffs imprisoned the government is stepping in to make reforms in the finances of the FLDS organization, which holds about 100 million in assests (and yet relies on welfare to support their children).
I could go on and on about the depressing news I've been hearing, but I think I'll leave you on the positive note of Warren Jeffs incarceration : )
For starters, here's the story of a five year old girl that was starved almost to death by her mother's boyfriend. The mother had been deployed to Iraq and left her daughter in the custody of her boyfriend (whom she trusted from their two year relationship). The boyfriend was also given access to the mother's checking account to help the cost of taking care of her daughter. The checking account was bled dry for a drug habit and the daughter was starved. On t.v. they're showing pictures of this little girl's body and it's like seeing holocaust victims all over again.
So this next story doesn't take place in Utah and it's not as horrifying as a five year old being starved to death, but the news clip (on t.v.) did catch my eye. A reporter in San Diego uncovered a real estate scam and was interviewing one of the victims, when the alledged perpetrators arrived on the scene. If you could see this video clip you'd realize why it caught my attention, it was an absolute circus. The reporter was a professional in the face of all the abuse, but those bringing about the beating were ridiculous (acting like little children throwing a tantrum).
Of course Warren Jeffs (the leader of the Fundalmentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Days Saints) has been in the news. Since May, Jeffs has been on the FBI's most wanted list and recently he was arrested about five miles outside of Las Vegas during a routine traffic stop. Jeffs is being charged with the unlawful marriages of teenage girls (subsequently resulting in rape). At this time Jeffs is in solitary confinment at Purgatory (the name of the prison located in Hurricane, Utah). Now with Jeffs imprisoned the government is stepping in to make reforms in the finances of the FLDS organization, which holds about 100 million in assests (and yet relies on welfare to support their children).
I could go on and on about the depressing news I've been hearing, but I think I'll leave you on the positive note of Warren Jeffs incarceration : )
Friday, September 01, 2006
Personalizing Work Space...
Yippee...I actually have work space to personalize now. That's right I have a job now with my own desk. This might not seem like quite an accomplishment to anyone, but I've never had this. Sure I had my own work space before, but it was always a more communal area. Now I actually have my own desk.
I also plan to make the most of this desk. Already I have a drawer where I keep my little snack bars and other mid-afternoon treats. On Monday I plan to come to work with one of my favorite pictures in a frame, so that I might have something enjoyable to look at while working (at this point my desk faces a blank wall - i definitely need something to look at). And of course what desk (a girl's desk atleast) would be complete without a scented candle to light each day.
What can I say, how about this, "AHHHH...life is good."
I also plan to make the most of this desk. Already I have a drawer where I keep my little snack bars and other mid-afternoon treats. On Monday I plan to come to work with one of my favorite pictures in a frame, so that I might have something enjoyable to look at while working (at this point my desk faces a blank wall - i definitely need something to look at). And of course what desk (a girl's desk atleast) would be complete without a scented candle to light each day.
What can I say, how about this, "AHHHH...life is good."
Thursday, August 31, 2006
President Bush in Salt Lake City
That's right President Bush arrived in Salt Lake City yesterday afternoon and is still here today. He met with the First Presidency of the Latter-Day Saints Church this morning before 9:00 a.m. and then it was off to his speak engagement of the American Legion. He was out of the city by noon today and off on a plane to who knows where (well I'm sure somebody knows, just not me).
And you're probably thinking what does President Bush's visit do with Jenn. Well, it did effect me, in the most insidious way. It messed up my drive to work this morning. That's right all the traffic was backed up and not much fun today because a good number of roads were blocked off for the President's security.
Okay, I'm going to try and not sound upset here, but let's do some math. Securing a road for 1 man vs. traffic and longer commutes for a couple of thousand. Hmmm, that math seems a little off. Boy, am I glad it's not every day the President comes to town.
And you're probably thinking what does President Bush's visit do with Jenn. Well, it did effect me, in the most insidious way. It messed up my drive to work this morning. That's right all the traffic was backed up and not much fun today because a good number of roads were blocked off for the President's security.
Okay, I'm going to try and not sound upset here, but let's do some math. Securing a road for 1 man vs. traffic and longer commutes for a couple of thousand. Hmmm, that math seems a little off. Boy, am I glad it's not every day the President comes to town.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
I Did a First Tonight...
That's right, I did something for the first time this evening. I went to a movie theater by myself. You see, I sort of had this pass good for one free movie ticket and it was expiring today, so instead of letting it go to waste I thought I might as well use (even if it meant going by myself). I really didn't mind the whole experience either.
In the entire auditorum it was me and two other girls. I guess they weren't have a very busy night, or it could have been my choice in a movie (Material Girls). I thought the movie was cute and funny, not the best or the worst I've ever seen, but on the whole a good film.
It was the previews that really got me. One preview in particular. It was for an upcoming film called Flicka. I'm sitting there watching this preview about a mustang (for those of you who think that's a car in this case i'm talking about a horse) named Flicka and the young girl who tames it. The movie is also about the relationship between a daughter and her father.
I've never done this before, but I started crying over this preview. I sat there and knew I was going to see this movie someday and when I did I'd have a box of tissues close at hand. You know if I have tears during a preview I'll be sobbing the film away. Boy, and I can't wait for that film to come out!!
In the entire auditorum it was me and two other girls. I guess they weren't have a very busy night, or it could have been my choice in a movie (Material Girls). I thought the movie was cute and funny, not the best or the worst I've ever seen, but on the whole a good film.
It was the previews that really got me. One preview in particular. It was for an upcoming film called Flicka. I'm sitting there watching this preview about a mustang (for those of you who think that's a car in this case i'm talking about a horse) named Flicka and the young girl who tames it. The movie is also about the relationship between a daughter and her father.
I've never done this before, but I started crying over this preview. I sat there and knew I was going to see this movie someday and when I did I'd have a box of tissues close at hand. You know if I have tears during a preview I'll be sobbing the film away. Boy, and I can't wait for that film to come out!!
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Thoughts on Home...
Last evening I was drive home from a movie and my thoughts were centered around the city I was driving through. This happens to me a good deal. I'll be driving to or from somewhere and I'm impressed by all that I can see in Salt Lake City. It's more than just how beautiful this city is, it also goes to all it has to offer commercially as well.
As I was driving past all too many store fronts last evening (and all very closely located to my residence) I couldn't help but think how lucky I am to have so many options available to me. In fact it's way to many options, I haven't come even close to visiting all these stores or even knowing of their existence. Yes, finding a new store location happens just about every week for me. Here I am living in a city where I find a new store every week.
Even last night, the movie theater that we visited was somewhere I've never been before (and I've lived in this city for well over a year now). Now that movie theater is a good example of what I'm talking about here. I had never been there before or even thought of its existence, and then I step inside and I'm totally blown away. This wasn't just any movie theater it was a mall. It had 17 auditorms and it's concession stand wasn't just one food area, but a complete food court with tons of culinary options and plenty of seating to eat at. Just going to the movies became an adventure experience that I really enjoyed.
So it was with these thoughts that I was driving home from the movies. I was thinking how lucky I am to be living in a city that is a constant adventure for me, and that I have more options than I know what do to with. Of course I was thinking how could I ever leave this area (or who would ever want to leave).
Then I got home and got online to read some of my friend's blog entries. Brendan posted some updates including a picture from Highland County in Virginia. Oh Highland County!! My mother grew up in rural Highland County, so in my life time I've spent considerable time in that area visiting with family there. I remember times in my childhood that we spent a week or so visiting my grandparents in Highland County. We called in Camp Vance (their surname), for it was like a camp, lots of fun with swimming in the river and playing around outdoors.
Highland County certainly doesn't have that much to offer as far as commercial options or entertainment is concerned. No, it certainly doesn't have much of that to offer at all, but it does have adventure and plenty of nature to enjoy. I looked at that picture Brendan posted and immediately knew why people leave cities like Salt Lake, nothing will ever compare to country life.
As I was driving past all too many store fronts last evening (and all very closely located to my residence) I couldn't help but think how lucky I am to have so many options available to me. In fact it's way to many options, I haven't come even close to visiting all these stores or even knowing of their existence. Yes, finding a new store location happens just about every week for me. Here I am living in a city where I find a new store every week.
Even last night, the movie theater that we visited was somewhere I've never been before (and I've lived in this city for well over a year now). Now that movie theater is a good example of what I'm talking about here. I had never been there before or even thought of its existence, and then I step inside and I'm totally blown away. This wasn't just any movie theater it was a mall. It had 17 auditorms and it's concession stand wasn't just one food area, but a complete food court with tons of culinary options and plenty of seating to eat at. Just going to the movies became an adventure experience that I really enjoyed.
So it was with these thoughts that I was driving home from the movies. I was thinking how lucky I am to be living in a city that is a constant adventure for me, and that I have more options than I know what do to with. Of course I was thinking how could I ever leave this area (or who would ever want to leave).
Then I got home and got online to read some of my friend's blog entries. Brendan posted some updates including a picture from Highland County in Virginia. Oh Highland County!! My mother grew up in rural Highland County, so in my life time I've spent considerable time in that area visiting with family there. I remember times in my childhood that we spent a week or so visiting my grandparents in Highland County. We called in Camp Vance (their surname), for it was like a camp, lots of fun with swimming in the river and playing around outdoors.
Highland County certainly doesn't have that much to offer as far as commercial options or entertainment is concerned. No, it certainly doesn't have much of that to offer at all, but it does have adventure and plenty of nature to enjoy. I looked at that picture Brendan posted and immediately knew why people leave cities like Salt Lake, nothing will ever compare to country life.
Monday, August 21, 2006
A Little Humor For Ya....
Okay, I enjoy a good laugh just like the next person. Even if it is directed at my own gender. Well, I found this posting on someone's MySpace account last night. I can't remember who it was that had it posted, but I know I found them through the EMU alumni page.Well, it doesn't really matter who it was that posted it, just that they have a good sense of humor.
Now, I do remember where I found the "Redneck Bear". That was on Richard's MySpace account. Now Richard is one of those old friends from high school, so it's not surprising that the "Redneck Bear" reminds me of home. Well, at least it reminds me of some good ol' rednecks back in Virginia.
Well, that's all for today. Maybe I'll catch you all up later with some of my favorite comics that I find online.
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Sore Knees...
The last couple of afternoons (and evenings) I spent painting a coffee house. Not just any coffee house I might add, this is a very special coffee house. That's because it belongs to Discovery Christian Community church.
This very afternoon I was down on my knees painting for several hours in our new coffee house. You don't realize how much it affects your knees until it's all said and done. Sometime in the early evening hours I just called it quits on my painting for the day and went home. Upon arriving at my apartment I look down at my knees and they are all swollen and red (not fun).
An hour later, after some ice packs and relaxing by the t.v. I'm feeling 100% better. I'm not too worried about my knees, especially since I won't have to be down on them again for awhile (I can't think of any reason I would have to be any time soon).
It was while I was painting this afternoon that I had plenty of time to think. Funny enough, my thoughts centered around what I should write about on my next blog. Isn't that sad? I see the world through potential blog entries. Any time an event or thought takes place my mind wonders is this worthy of a blog entry, and how should I angle my writing.
Today I was thinking of how best to write about my phone conversation with Emily. It's quite a story. As it happens I had a terrible nightmare last night about Emily. I dreamed that she had been killed on her motorcycle, while she was turning out of her lane. I called Emily today to relate my dream and she tells me of how she never stops at the end of lane. She likes to check the traffic while she's driving and then continue easing out. Hmmm...maybe my dream was a warning!!!
Anyways, I think I've left you with enough for today. You have everything from sore kness to motorcycle crashes, that's what I call blog entertainment.
This very afternoon I was down on my knees painting for several hours in our new coffee house. You don't realize how much it affects your knees until it's all said and done. Sometime in the early evening hours I just called it quits on my painting for the day and went home. Upon arriving at my apartment I look down at my knees and they are all swollen and red (not fun).
An hour later, after some ice packs and relaxing by the t.v. I'm feeling 100% better. I'm not too worried about my knees, especially since I won't have to be down on them again for awhile (I can't think of any reason I would have to be any time soon).
It was while I was painting this afternoon that I had plenty of time to think. Funny enough, my thoughts centered around what I should write about on my next blog. Isn't that sad? I see the world through potential blog entries. Any time an event or thought takes place my mind wonders is this worthy of a blog entry, and how should I angle my writing.
Today I was thinking of how best to write about my phone conversation with Emily. It's quite a story. As it happens I had a terrible nightmare last night about Emily. I dreamed that she had been killed on her motorcycle, while she was turning out of her lane. I called Emily today to relate my dream and she tells me of how she never stops at the end of lane. She likes to check the traffic while she's driving and then continue easing out. Hmmm...maybe my dream was a warning!!!
Anyways, I think I've left you with enough for today. You have everything from sore kness to motorcycle crashes, that's what I call blog entertainment.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Too Much Information...
I'm a little afraid that there might be too much information out there on the world wide web about me.
I was made aware of the fact when this evening out of the blue I received a phone call from a long lost friend. Okay, this isn't bad because I knew this guy and he's completely trustworthy(even someone I was happy to talk to). I was just a little perplexed when he called me, especially on my land line phone, which isn't known by too many people. So I asked the question on the top of my mind, how did you get this number.
His response, "Oh, I just looked your name up on the internet and I got your number and address." Being that his response alarmed me somewhat I decided to try this for myself. I went to a online phone directory site and typed in my name and state. One simple click and I had my phone number and address on the screen (minus my apartment number - so I felt better about that).
Another click away and some exchange of money and I could have easily gotten a background check on myself.
Well, to turn the tables a little bit I typed in my friend's name. John Guengerich I know where you live!! (Not that I didn't know that already).
I was made aware of the fact when this evening out of the blue I received a phone call from a long lost friend. Okay, this isn't bad because I knew this guy and he's completely trustworthy(even someone I was happy to talk to). I was just a little perplexed when he called me, especially on my land line phone, which isn't known by too many people. So I asked the question on the top of my mind, how did you get this number.
His response, "Oh, I just looked your name up on the internet and I got your number and address." Being that his response alarmed me somewhat I decided to try this for myself. I went to a online phone directory site and typed in my name and state. One simple click and I had my phone number and address on the screen (minus my apartment number - so I felt better about that).
Another click away and some exchange of money and I could have easily gotten a background check on myself.
Well, to turn the tables a little bit I typed in my friend's name. John Guengerich I know where you live!! (Not that I didn't know that already).
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Learning to Save...
A couple of evening ago I wrote out this really neat blog entry about my new experiences with MySpace.com. Come to find out later there must have been a glitch, because my entry didn't post. Of course, I wasn't too smart, for I didn't save my work. That's something I'm going to have to work on; I'm sure it'll improve my health by keeping my frustration and blood pressure low.
Well, on to the cool world of MySpace.com. Over a year ago one of my dear friends told me about this "evil" thing called MySpace. She said that people who were up to no good went to MySpace and did their no good deeds. Well, I figured if it wasn't wholesome then I'd just ignore it.
Periodically in the last year I would hear from other friends about them joining MySpace, and the long lost friends they reconnected with there. Eventually curiosity got ahold of me and I checked it out. Not only did I check it out I started myself an account. It's been pretty neat! I've looked up old high school and college acquaintances and reconnected again. I've enjoyed reading from their profiles where God has lead them and what they've been doing.
The only harmful aspect of MySpace (that I've found true for me) is how addicting it is. On the other hand I know what my first friend was saying about it being unwholesome. She saw it for what certain people were using the site for, but I've learned that it's what you make of it.
Okay, on to other news. I've cut back on eating meat. No, I'm not a vegetarian, but I've been concerned recently about the lack of efficiency in using our world's finite resources. It's some reading I've been doing that lead me to understand how meat products consume more resources (land/water) than are necessary. If the same land and water were used to feed human need (with grains and such) it would far more efficiently feed people than the animals raised on that same land and water.
Don't worry I'm not preaching to anybody or telling them that they should follow suit. It's just my own conscience that lead me to give up the large quantities of meat I consume. I figure I'll still eat meat on occasions, but if one less person needed as much meat than maybe more of our resources could be used to displace hunger somewhere else in the world.
You know, it's been fun so far. I've enjoyed trying new ideas, replacing fruits or vegetables in items for where I use to place meat. Like for example my favorite sandwich is turkey. Anything with bread turkey and cheese and I've got myself a fine lunch. So today instead of turkey I had bread, mushrooms and cheese. It was really good!! The day before I had bread, apple and cheese. That was even better!!!
You should try it yourself sometime. I used some honey wheat bread that I made late last week. Sliced an apple in fine strips and used some Brie cheese. I made it just like a grilled cheese sandwich and with the bread toasted with butter and the melted cheese I was in heaven. The tartness of the apple with the cheese was excellent.
I'm sure by now I've got your mouth watering, so you should be going to make yourself a grilled apple cheese sandwich. ENJOY!!
Well, on to the cool world of MySpace.com. Over a year ago one of my dear friends told me about this "evil" thing called MySpace. She said that people who were up to no good went to MySpace and did their no good deeds. Well, I figured if it wasn't wholesome then I'd just ignore it.
Periodically in the last year I would hear from other friends about them joining MySpace, and the long lost friends they reconnected with there. Eventually curiosity got ahold of me and I checked it out. Not only did I check it out I started myself an account. It's been pretty neat! I've looked up old high school and college acquaintances and reconnected again. I've enjoyed reading from their profiles where God has lead them and what they've been doing.
The only harmful aspect of MySpace (that I've found true for me) is how addicting it is. On the other hand I know what my first friend was saying about it being unwholesome. She saw it for what certain people were using the site for, but I've learned that it's what you make of it.
Okay, on to other news. I've cut back on eating meat. No, I'm not a vegetarian, but I've been concerned recently about the lack of efficiency in using our world's finite resources. It's some reading I've been doing that lead me to understand how meat products consume more resources (land/water) than are necessary. If the same land and water were used to feed human need (with grains and such) it would far more efficiently feed people than the animals raised on that same land and water.
Don't worry I'm not preaching to anybody or telling them that they should follow suit. It's just my own conscience that lead me to give up the large quantities of meat I consume. I figure I'll still eat meat on occasions, but if one less person needed as much meat than maybe more of our resources could be used to displace hunger somewhere else in the world.
You know, it's been fun so far. I've enjoyed trying new ideas, replacing fruits or vegetables in items for where I use to place meat. Like for example my favorite sandwich is turkey. Anything with bread turkey and cheese and I've got myself a fine lunch. So today instead of turkey I had bread, mushrooms and cheese. It was really good!! The day before I had bread, apple and cheese. That was even better!!!
You should try it yourself sometime. I used some honey wheat bread that I made late last week. Sliced an apple in fine strips and used some Brie cheese. I made it just like a grilled cheese sandwich and with the bread toasted with butter and the melted cheese I was in heaven. The tartness of the apple with the cheese was excellent.
I'm sure by now I've got your mouth watering, so you should be going to make yourself a grilled apple cheese sandwich. ENJOY!!
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Mother's Daughter...
I have become my Mom. That's right, I'm definitely my Mother's daughter. Today I went to Home Depot got some paint samples and then studied them for over an hour. I did have a reason for doing that, it wasn't some bizarre action on my part.
It just so happens that I'm in charge of a decorating project at my church. Well, it's more than just decorating, I'm actually coordinating the addition of a coffee house for the church.
My first concern is getting the room painted, which explains my obsession with paint samples. As I stood in the room, of what is to become our coffee house, and held up paint samples to the wall; I was struck by the fact that this was behavior I use to watch my Mom exhibit.
Mom I love you, but I'm about tell on you. She use to have these paint samples and would ask everyone in the family what we thought about her choices. She would ask, and she would ask, and she would ask. Truthfully, none of us cared. It's just that my Mom has such good taste in colors and design that whatever she picked always looked nice.
And here I stood today, looking at different paint choices and gripped with indecision. Man, if someone else had been in that room with me I'm sure I would have annoyed them with constant, "Are you sure it looks okay?"
Yes, I'm definitely my Mother's daughter. I LOVE YOU MOM!!!
It just so happens that I'm in charge of a decorating project at my church. Well, it's more than just decorating, I'm actually coordinating the addition of a coffee house for the church.
My first concern is getting the room painted, which explains my obsession with paint samples. As I stood in the room, of what is to become our coffee house, and held up paint samples to the wall; I was struck by the fact that this was behavior I use to watch my Mom exhibit.
Mom I love you, but I'm about tell on you. She use to have these paint samples and would ask everyone in the family what we thought about her choices. She would ask, and she would ask, and she would ask. Truthfully, none of us cared. It's just that my Mom has such good taste in colors and design that whatever she picked always looked nice.
And here I stood today, looking at different paint choices and gripped with indecision. Man, if someone else had been in that room with me I'm sure I would have annoyed them with constant, "Are you sure it looks okay?"
Yes, I'm definitely my Mother's daughter. I LOVE YOU MOM!!!
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
For the Bike Movement Guys...
Guys, here's that photo you wanted to see. For everyone else that's a photo of Nathan Maust feeding an ostrich in South Africa.
Bike Movement....
Now if you've had the chance to read my previous entry then you already know of my intent to talk about Bike Movement. I first heard of Bike Movement from my good friend Mike, who had known that our common acquintance, Nate Maust, was biking with the group. I was interested in what Mike was sharing about this group of young adults biking from the Pacific to the Atlantic Oceans.
Mike went ahead and forwarded to me the Bike Movement website. As I read who was involved with this movement and why they were taking months from their summer to cycle across the country I was hooked. Just about everyday I went online to see where they were at, read their journal entries, read forums, or just look at their really cool photo gallery.
Even today I went online to see how things were progressing with the group. I learned that today they were attempting to set a Bike Movement record, and were in the process of biking a double century (200 miles).
Though I know that each one of them enjoys biking and is taking something from this experience, what's really awesome is what they giving to this movement. It's sort of a two fold effort here (and they explain best at their website). As they travel across the country they're creating dialogue and community with other young adults from the church. It's about each voice being heard and the church learning from each other as they grow in relationship with Christ. They're stopping at Mennonite (and sometimes non-Mennonite) churches along the way and meeting with people and creating dialogue. They're encouraging others to join them for any length of time as they (like how I went and spent and evening fellowship). And they're keeping a VERY up to date website that has a really neat forum that allows people from their own homes to join in the dialogue.
I did say that this movement was two fold. Their other effort is to create support and funding for AMIGOS. They are in the midst of raising $50,000 to help support the effort of sending other youth and young adults to Mennonite World Conference, so their voices can also be heard in the church. The way they estimate funding is if they're able to receive $15 for each mile that they're biking across country then they'll have reached their goal.
I know there is a lot of worth while causes in the world; heartbreaking concerns that we choose between when giving of our blessings. The question I'd like to present to each of you is this; have you ever felt that no one was listening to you, or that you weren't even present to have your voice heard? Just know that you can affect someone else's ability to have their voice heard.
When I look at how the Mennonite Church has grown around the world, and how dynamic it has become in it's diversity, I can't help but desire that we continue in that direction. For that reason it is important that every voice have a chance to be heard no matter their financial circumstances. I like to ask you each of you to consider giving to AMIGOS, that more voices would have the chance to be heard.
If your wondering how you might give just visit Bike Movement online. They have information concern donations by mail, and they've made it possible to make a donation online with your credit card.
While your online making your donation please check out the participants page. I'd suggest thinking of these young adults and keeping them in your prayers. It's not always easy out their on the roads, and sometimes even dangerous. I'm sure they'd appreciate your prayer support as well.
Mike went ahead and forwarded to me the Bike Movement website. As I read who was involved with this movement and why they were taking months from their summer to cycle across the country I was hooked. Just about everyday I went online to see where they were at, read their journal entries, read forums, or just look at their really cool photo gallery.
Even today I went online to see how things were progressing with the group. I learned that today they were attempting to set a Bike Movement record, and were in the process of biking a double century (200 miles).
Though I know that each one of them enjoys biking and is taking something from this experience, what's really awesome is what they giving to this movement. It's sort of a two fold effort here (and they explain best at their website). As they travel across the country they're creating dialogue and community with other young adults from the church. It's about each voice being heard and the church learning from each other as they grow in relationship with Christ. They're stopping at Mennonite (and sometimes non-Mennonite) churches along the way and meeting with people and creating dialogue. They're encouraging others to join them for any length of time as they (like how I went and spent and evening fellowship). And they're keeping a VERY up to date website that has a really neat forum that allows people from their own homes to join in the dialogue.
I did say that this movement was two fold. Their other effort is to create support and funding for AMIGOS. They are in the midst of raising $50,000 to help support the effort of sending other youth and young adults to Mennonite World Conference, so their voices can also be heard in the church. The way they estimate funding is if they're able to receive $15 for each mile that they're biking across country then they'll have reached their goal.
I know there is a lot of worth while causes in the world; heartbreaking concerns that we choose between when giving of our blessings. The question I'd like to present to each of you is this; have you ever felt that no one was listening to you, or that you weren't even present to have your voice heard? Just know that you can affect someone else's ability to have their voice heard.
When I look at how the Mennonite Church has grown around the world, and how dynamic it has become in it's diversity, I can't help but desire that we continue in that direction. For that reason it is important that every voice have a chance to be heard no matter their financial circumstances. I like to ask you each of you to consider giving to AMIGOS, that more voices would have the chance to be heard.
If your wondering how you might give just visit Bike Movement online. They have information concern donations by mail, and they've made it possible to make a donation online with your credit card.
While your online making your donation please check out the participants page. I'd suggest thinking of these young adults and keeping them in your prayers. It's not always easy out their on the roads, and sometimes even dangerous. I'm sure they'd appreciate your prayer support as well.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
