I was running on my elliptical last night when this song came on my iPod randomly. It was definite motivation to keep running and really made me reflect upon all that is going on in my life currently. I always thought it was a fun song to sing at Cru or at church, but I really listened to the lyrics last night and had to smile. I'm not going to get into all that this song speaks to me, but I will say that God is great!
I also read a quote the other day and thought I'd share. "I cannot brag about my love for God because I fail Him every day, but I can brag about His love for me because His love never fails."
6 days until CHRISTmas! Keep on "running!"
Monday, December 19, 2011
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Update Coming Soon
Much has been happening lately and, sadly, I have not kept up with my blog. As Christmas approaches, I will have a three-week break from work and promise to find time to update. Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season!!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Friday, October 28, 2011
Prayers
I have been reading this blog lately, and the family is a friend of a friend. Please read and keep Chaia and her parents in your prayers. This little one has a long road ahead of her but has come so far already. And she's pretty darn cute, too!
http://mustardrevolution.blogspot.com/
http://mustardrevolution.blogspot.com/
Thursday, October 20, 2011
My Awesome Friend
So I have this awesome friend named Emma, who I posted about here. As you can see, I think she is a pretty awesome person and find her very inspiring. Elections are coming up and because Emma is so cool, she was featured as part of the Summit DD campaign. Check Emma out! The girl can swim like a fish and is just an all-around fun person! Love my silly pickle!
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Pinterest Fun!
Lately I have become a bit addicted to the website, Pinterest. Basically what it allows you to do is create virtual "bulletin boards" with different themes, and on each board you can "pin" ideas or objects that you like or that interest you. Recently my coworkers and I have been using this as a way to get some fun crafting ideas from other people. Let's face it, in New Concord there is not much else to do, and our apartments will look damn good by the time we are through!
Here are some of the things I have been working on lately:
I also made another crafting project tonight, but it is going to be a gift so I can't post it quite yet. I'm super excited about it and will most likely be making many more in the future. More crafting ideas already in progress. Just need to buy supplies or actually get around to doing them!
Anybody else have some fun craft ideas they've tried lately??
Here are some of the things I have been working on lately:
The canvases I posted about awhile ago. Hung and with bigger canvases on either side
Wine bottles, Elmer's Glue, hemp. Used these as vases at my parents' party but forgot to take pictures with flowers in them!
And finally this headband, made of 5 strips from an old t-shirt braided together. Can't say it's a favorite but I'm sure it will be useful on lazy days!
Anybody else have some fun craft ideas they've tried lately??
Sunday, October 16, 2011
RIP Jim
Amidst the chaos of planning last-minute details of the anniversary party and carrying out Mental Health Awareness Day at work, I received a text message from a past co-worker and friend telling me that our boss had passed away. I began working at Grabham's Candies in Cuyahoga Falls the summer before my senior year in high school and haven't stopped since. Even when I was away at college or grad school I came back at Christmas, Easter, Valentine's Day and whenever I could to help out. The business was started by Jim's grandmother and everything there is handmade and delicious. Jim was the mastermind behind it all. He was constantly coming up with new recipes to try and they always turned out great.
I'll never forget when I first started working at Grabham's and I was absolutely scared to death of Jim. He was not a particularly intimidating guy, but the quiet, shy girl I was in high school was certainly unsure of this man. It may have taken me a bit of time and me coming out of my shell a bit, but I got on Jim's good side and we developed a good relationship where we could joke around and talk about our common interests (guitar and then eventually, our cats). Jim was always bringing pictures out into the store to show us of his new guitars or basses, Kitten doing silly things, or anything else we may have been talking about at the time. Jim was quite possibly the biggest eBay fanatic I have ever met, and that turned into our go-to Christmas gift for him each year. I will never forget the many feasts he made us for lunch on Christmas Eve each year or the cookies and donuts he would randomly buy us (as if the candy wasn't enough of a temptation!). I have so many memories of this man and his store, and it already feels strange to go in without him there.
Jim touched many lives and will be missed deeply by so many people in the community. The number of people at his calling hours in just the hour or so I was there is testament to the number of people he reached. I know it is going to be tough for his wife and daughter for some time, so if you are reading this please keep them in your prayers. They are a wonderful family with hearts for the people that work for them and the people they serve. I am honored and blessed to be part of the legacy that is Grabham's Candies and am looking forward to going back at Christmas this year to once again spread the joy of their wonderful chocolate! I only hope that Jim knew how much he meant to me and to so many others out there. Rest in Peace, Jim...I know I'll see you again one day.
I'll never forget when I first started working at Grabham's and I was absolutely scared to death of Jim. He was not a particularly intimidating guy, but the quiet, shy girl I was in high school was certainly unsure of this man. It may have taken me a bit of time and me coming out of my shell a bit, but I got on Jim's good side and we developed a good relationship where we could joke around and talk about our common interests (guitar and then eventually, our cats). Jim was always bringing pictures out into the store to show us of his new guitars or basses, Kitten doing silly things, or anything else we may have been talking about at the time. Jim was quite possibly the biggest eBay fanatic I have ever met, and that turned into our go-to Christmas gift for him each year. I will never forget the many feasts he made us for lunch on Christmas Eve each year or the cookies and donuts he would randomly buy us (as if the candy wasn't enough of a temptation!). I have so many memories of this man and his store, and it already feels strange to go in without him there.
Jim touched many lives and will be missed deeply by so many people in the community. The number of people at his calling hours in just the hour or so I was there is testament to the number of people he reached. I know it is going to be tough for his wife and daughter for some time, so if you are reading this please keep them in your prayers. They are a wonderful family with hearts for the people that work for them and the people they serve. I am honored and blessed to be part of the legacy that is Grabham's Candies and am looking forward to going back at Christmas this year to once again spread the joy of their wonderful chocolate! I only hope that Jim knew how much he meant to me and to so many others out there. Rest in Peace, Jim...I know I'll see you again one day.
Working On That Bucket List
Back when I first started this blog I posted my newly created "Bucket List." I can't say that I've had many opportunities to complete many of these items while finishing grad school, finding a job, moving, etc., but I can finally say that I accomplished one (along with the help of my sister), and I must say we did it well!
My parents' 30th wedding anniversary was this past Monday, October 10th. A few months ago I was talking to my sister, Erin, about it and suggested that she come in town (she lives in Washington, DC) for the weekend to celebrate. At first we talked about doing a dinner for them with us and their parents but then the wanna-be party planner in me decided we should throw a surprise party. We decided to to keep it pretty small (yes, we both have jobs, but we're both young professionals with college loans to pay off!) and invite close family and friends. Needless to say, for the several weeks leading up to the party Erin and I were both stressed and both had dreams that our parents found out, weren't excited, etc.
The way our plan worked is that Erin would drive from DC to my apartment in New Concord on Friday evening, then we would drive to Akron together Saturday morning to get everything done for the party, have the party Saturday evening, then drive back to New Concord on Sunday so that Erin could head back to DC. Plans ended up changing a bit, but Erin and I were both in Akron Saturday early afternoon and felt like spies or something trying to make sure we knew where our parents were at all times so we wouldn't run into them. We honestly went as far as playing our games of Words With Friends with our mom--if she took her turn we knew she was at home because she can only play through Facebook!
Finally we got everything set up and the party was ready to begin.
The party took place at my grandpa's condo party room. The day of the party was also the Jewish holiday Yom Kippur. My mom's side of the family is Jewish and my grandparents were at temple part of the day. The plan was that my grandpa and step-grandma invited my parents to go out to dinner to break the fast. My parents picked them up at their condo and my grandpa told them he needed to drop something off at the condo offices (in the same building as the party room), and my step-grandma convinced them to come inside to see the renovations. Our dreams thankfully turned out to be completely wrong. Our parents were absolutely shocked when they walked in to the party.
As we predicted, Mom cried and Dad teared up but held it together nicely, although his face turned beat red! Luckily I was on hand with napkins (in all of our planning we somehow forgot tissues!). After the initial shock, crying, and calling their daughters sneaky liars (that's putting it nicely!) our parents had time to eat, talk, and relax with friends and family. I, being the persistent person I am, kindly informed my parents that they had to go through the whole cake-cutting process like a married couple typically does at their wedding.
The food was good, the cake was good, and the company was good. All in all, a successful party I'd say. Glad that I could start ticking off those Bucket List items with an event such as this. Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad! I love you very much!
Oh, and we couldn't forget a lovely Brady Family pic!
My parents' 30th wedding anniversary was this past Monday, October 10th. A few months ago I was talking to my sister, Erin, about it and suggested that she come in town (she lives in Washington, DC) for the weekend to celebrate. At first we talked about doing a dinner for them with us and their parents but then the wanna-be party planner in me decided we should throw a surprise party. We decided to to keep it pretty small (yes, we both have jobs, but we're both young professionals with college loans to pay off!) and invite close family and friends. Needless to say, for the several weeks leading up to the party Erin and I were both stressed and both had dreams that our parents found out, weren't excited, etc.
The way our plan worked is that Erin would drive from DC to my apartment in New Concord on Friday evening, then we would drive to Akron together Saturday morning to get everything done for the party, have the party Saturday evening, then drive back to New Concord on Sunday so that Erin could head back to DC. Plans ended up changing a bit, but Erin and I were both in Akron Saturday early afternoon and felt like spies or something trying to make sure we knew where our parents were at all times so we wouldn't run into them. We honestly went as far as playing our games of Words With Friends with our mom--if she took her turn we knew she was at home because she can only play through Facebook!
Finally we got everything set up and the party was ready to begin.
The party took place at my grandpa's condo party room. The day of the party was also the Jewish holiday Yom Kippur. My mom's side of the family is Jewish and my grandparents were at temple part of the day. The plan was that my grandpa and step-grandma invited my parents to go out to dinner to break the fast. My parents picked them up at their condo and my grandpa told them he needed to drop something off at the condo offices (in the same building as the party room), and my step-grandma convinced them to come inside to see the renovations. Our dreams thankfully turned out to be completely wrong. Our parents were absolutely shocked when they walked in to the party.
As we predicted, Mom cried and Dad teared up but held it together nicely, although his face turned beat red! Luckily I was on hand with napkins (in all of our planning we somehow forgot tissues!). After the initial shock, crying, and calling their daughters sneaky liars (that's putting it nicely!) our parents had time to eat, talk, and relax with friends and family. I, being the persistent person I am, kindly informed my parents that they had to go through the whole cake-cutting process like a married couple typically does at their wedding.
The food was good, the cake was good, and the company was good. All in all, a successful party I'd say. Glad that I could start ticking off those Bucket List items with an event such as this. Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad! I love you very much!
Oh, and we couldn't forget a lovely Brady Family pic!
Monday, October 3, 2011
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Contest
Hi everyone,
I've entered a contest on Facebook through Kate Voegele (one of my absolute favorite musicians and an inspiration to me) called the Perform Beautifully contest. To enter the contest we were asked to submit a picture that demonstrates something we are passionate about. I posted a picture of myself and Emma, one of my past campers, who is a 17 year-old with Down Syndrome. Emma and I have a hilarious relationship and I can honestly say she is one of my favorite people in the world. She can always make me laugh and I'd like to think I can do the same for her. Throughout my 6 summers working with her, I have seen other campers grow to accept her and view her as the funny, happy person that she is--instead of only seeing the fact that she has Downs. The 10 contestants who get the most votes win a pair of Kate's new Oakley sunglasses that she designed herself. Of course I would love to win the sunglasses because I sure can't afford a pair of Oakleys, but I am also hoping that when Kate posts the winners others will see my entry and start to view individuals who have Down Syndrome in a different way. That is where all of you blog readers of mine come in (however many of you there are). Below is a link to the page to vote for me in the contest. The contest ends on Monday, September 19th and you can vote once a day until then. It would mean the absolute world to me if you all could do that for me. Thanks so much. You are all awesome!
I've entered a contest on Facebook through Kate Voegele (one of my absolute favorite musicians and an inspiration to me) called the Perform Beautifully contest. To enter the contest we were asked to submit a picture that demonstrates something we are passionate about. I posted a picture of myself and Emma, one of my past campers, who is a 17 year-old with Down Syndrome. Emma and I have a hilarious relationship and I can honestly say she is one of my favorite people in the world. She can always make me laugh and I'd like to think I can do the same for her. Throughout my 6 summers working with her, I have seen other campers grow to accept her and view her as the funny, happy person that she is--instead of only seeing the fact that she has Downs. The 10 contestants who get the most votes win a pair of Kate's new Oakley sunglasses that she designed herself. Of course I would love to win the sunglasses because I sure can't afford a pair of Oakleys, but I am also hoping that when Kate posts the winners others will see my entry and start to view individuals who have Down Syndrome in a different way. That is where all of you blog readers of mine come in (however many of you there are). Below is a link to the page to vote for me in the contest. The contest ends on Monday, September 19th and you can vote once a day until then. It would mean the absolute world to me if you all could do that for me. Thanks so much. You are all awesome!
Canvas Project
Some of you may remember one of my last few posts about a canvas painting project I wanted to try out. Well, last night I gave it a whirl and am pretty satisfied with the results! I have not hung it up yet, but I know where I want to hang it and have a feeling it will brighten up my extremely boring white walls. Here are some pictures of the process:
Next step is just to hang them up. I'll try to remember to post another picture once it's up. What does everyone think? Anyone have other good crafty ideas for me to try? I've never been a very artistic person, but simple things like this might give me some good practice!
Here I took four 8x10 blank canvases and created a design on them with masking tape. The design connects if you put the canvases together, but it doesn't have to. I am going to hang my canvases in a square, but spaced out so you kind of have to use your imagination to fill in the blanks!
After painting. I have couch pillows (thanks to my lovely grandmother for making them!) in a shade close to this color blue. I wanted to throw in another color for an accent here and there, so I went with a nice royal purple.
And finally, after the removal of the masking tape. I waited until the paint was dry (difficult for someone with little patience like me to do), then peeled the tape off--it came off very easily.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Wedding Bells are Ringing
Headed to Akron for another weekend at home and another wedding. I cannot believe my Frappy-Dappy is getting married! So looking forward to celebrating her special day with her tomorrow!
Also looking forward to seeing my best friend, Mo, and finally giving her her engagement gift! I cannot believe she is getting married! Wedding bells everywhere!
Will be sure to post about the wedding and whatnot after the weekend. Enjoy your Labor Day everyone, I will be spending mine at work--no rest for the Muskies!
*Don't forget to work on your September pictures logs!* :)
Also looking forward to seeing my best friend, Mo, and finally giving her her engagement gift! I cannot believe she is getting married! Wedding bells everywhere!
Will be sure to post about the wedding and whatnot after the weekend. Enjoy your Labor Day everyone, I will be spending mine at work--no rest for the Muskies!
*Don't forget to work on your September pictures logs!* :)
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Creative Juices are Flowing
Lately I have been feeling kind of artsy-craftsy, creative, etc., which is very unusual for me, as I am not an artistic person! This has exhibited itself through my desire to make my apartment cute and homey and matchy-matchy. Tonight I have been looking online for ideas of art projects to decorate my wall. I think this one might be the winner:
Basically you just take a canvas, create a design using masking tape, then paint over it with whatever color paint you want, let it dry, take off the masking tape. Easy enough, right?! I am thinking of doing a royal blue-ish color to match my couch pillows and add some color to my VERY white walls!
I also stumbled across this lovely list at creativekeepsakes.com. It is a PDF file and since I am not tech savvy enough to insert that in my blog, I am just going to have to type it all out. Anyway, it is a list of pictures you should be sure to take each month. I think it is an excellent idea to make sure fun events get documented, and since today is the first of the month, I think it is the perfect opportunity to start this new project! Here is the list. If you feel inspired to play along, please let me know!
January:
Snowmen
Indoor play
People sledding
Stacks of sweaters
Firsts for the New Year
• First snow
• First new outfit
• First family dinner
• First book you read
Icicles along the roof
Kids bundled up to go outside in
the cold
A couple snuggling by a glowing
fire
Bowls of soup or cups of hot
chocolate
Family members taking down holiday
decorations
February:
Kids in pajamas
Favorite gadgets
Your loved ones
A romantic night out
Valentines you receive
Super Bowl party, food and decor
Mardi Gras decorations and
parades
Children creating valentines for
school
Valentine’s Day cookies, candy
or cupcakes
High-school sporting events,
like a basketball game or gymnastics
meet
March:
Your car
Kites flying
Your pet on a walk
Your exercise routine
March Madness events
• People filling in brackets
• Friends watching games
• Fans wearing favorite teams’
jerseys
Favorite Dr. Seuss books
The first signs of spring
• Flowers sprouting
• Tree blossoms blooming
• Baby animals playing
Children playing in the yard
Loved ones playing in puddles
after a rainstorm
St. Patrick’s Day festivities featuring
green
Flowers peeking through dirt or
snow
Your toes with a fresh pedicure
and nail polish
The yard after its first mow of the
year
Family members working in the
garden
Outdoor sports, such as soccer,
softball and tennis
April:
Rainbows
Friends hiking
Easter celebrations
• Religious activities
• Family dressed in “Sunday best”
to attend an Easter service
• Egg hunting
• Egg decorating
• Easter dinner
• New Easter dress
Umbrellas and rain boots
Flats of flowers
May:
Barbeques
Grandma’s hands
Prom happenings
Photos with Mom
Flowers in the garden
Mother’s Day presents
Cinco de Mayo celebrations
Students moving out of the college
dorm
Cemeteries decorated for
Memorial Day
People drinking mint juleps or
wearing hats for Derby Day
June:
Baseball games
Photos with Dad
Animals at the zoo
Outdoor activities
• Badminton
• Picnics
• Evening walks
• Backyard movies
Father’s Day events
Feet wearing flip-flops
Strawberries on the vine
Graduates dressed in caps
and gowns
Children on the last day
of school
Brides getting ready for
the big day
July:
Farm fields
Family reunions
Camping activities
Fun in the sun
• Water fights
• Sunbathing
• Pool time
• People boating
• Swimming lessons
A concert in the park
Girls playing Hula-hoop
Ice-cream or snow cones
Watermelon ready to serve
Fourth of July celebrations
• Firework displays
large and small
• Parades
• People wearing red,
white and blue
• Flags flying
• Military personnel in
full regalia
A boy holding a worm,
frog or bug
August:
Sprinkler fun
Corn on the cob
Summer sunsets
People on bike rides
Vacations and travels
A pitcher of lemonade
NFL preseason parties
A couple holding hands
Back-to-school shopping
County, town or state fairs
September:
Football games
Tailgating parties
Fishing excitement
Family in sweaters
Apple-picking events
Freshly baked cookies
Leaves changing color
Visits with grandparents
Happenings on the first
day of school
• Catching the bus
• Wearing the first-dayof-
school outfit
• Packing the first lunch
• Meeting the teacher
• Stacking the kids’
schoolbooks
• Seeing or walking into
the new classroom
• Reading the school
schedule
• Buying new backpacks
and shoes
Car rides through the
canyons or mountains
October:
Hayrides
Bare trees
Scarecrows
Corn mazes
Haunted houses
Pumpkins at night
World Series parties
Kids jumping in piles of
fallen leaves
A train rolling across the
golden landscape
Homecoming celebrations
at school
November:
Baked pies
Geese flying south
Family gatherings
Thanksgiving dinner
• Loved ones preparing
the food
• People setting the table
• Home decor
• The family at the table
• People watching a
game after dinner
Black Friday madness
The first snowfall
Family photo shoot for
holiday cards
Dogs or kids playing in
the first snow
Thanksgiving leftovers in
the refrigerator
Family members turning
on Christmas lights
December:
Hockey games
Snowball fights
Canned-food drives
Community service
Friends sharing a laugh
Menorah being lit
New Year’s Eve parties
Family gathered around
the fireplace
Slippered feet lined up in
a row or in a circle
Christmas activities
• Gifts being wrapped
• Holiday shopping
• Cookie plate placed
out for Santa
• Children writing letters
to Santa
• Loved ones visiting
Santa at the mall
• Home decor
• Nativity scenes
• Carolers
• Trimmed trees
• Mantle with your
hung stockings
• Outdoor decor
• The holiday table
• Shopping bags filled
from mall outings
Oh, and if you have any other creative crafty ideas for me--bring 'em on!
I also stumbled across this lovely list at creativekeepsakes.com. It is a PDF file and since I am not tech savvy enough to insert that in my blog, I am just going to have to type it all out. Anyway, it is a list of pictures you should be sure to take each month. I think it is an excellent idea to make sure fun events get documented, and since today is the first of the month, I think it is the perfect opportunity to start this new project! Here is the list. If you feel inspired to play along, please let me know!
January:
Snowmen
Indoor play
People sledding
Stacks of sweaters
Firsts for the New Year
• First snow
• First new outfit
• First family dinner
• First book you read
Icicles along the roof
Kids bundled up to go outside in
the cold
A couple snuggling by a glowing
fire
Bowls of soup or cups of hot
chocolate
Family members taking down holiday
decorations
February:
Kids in pajamas
Favorite gadgets
Your loved ones
A romantic night out
Valentines you receive
Super Bowl party, food and decor
Mardi Gras decorations and
parades
Children creating valentines for
school
Valentine’s Day cookies, candy
or cupcakes
High-school sporting events,
like a basketball game or gymnastics
meet
March:
Your car
Kites flying
Your pet on a walk
Your exercise routine
March Madness events
• People filling in brackets
• Friends watching games
• Fans wearing favorite teams’
jerseys
Favorite Dr. Seuss books
The first signs of spring
• Flowers sprouting
• Tree blossoms blooming
• Baby animals playing
Children playing in the yard
Loved ones playing in puddles
after a rainstorm
St. Patrick’s Day festivities featuring
green
Flowers peeking through dirt or
snow
Your toes with a fresh pedicure
and nail polish
The yard after its first mow of the
year
Family members working in the
garden
Outdoor sports, such as soccer,
softball and tennis
April:
Rainbows
Friends hiking
Easter celebrations
• Religious activities
• Family dressed in “Sunday best”
to attend an Easter service
• Egg hunting
• Egg decorating
• Easter dinner
• New Easter dress
Umbrellas and rain boots
Flats of flowers
May:
Barbeques
Grandma’s hands
Prom happenings
Photos with Mom
Flowers in the garden
Mother’s Day presents
Cinco de Mayo celebrations
Students moving out of the college
dorm
Cemeteries decorated for
Memorial Day
People drinking mint juleps or
wearing hats for Derby Day
June:
Baseball games
Photos with Dad
Animals at the zoo
Outdoor activities
• Badminton
• Picnics
• Evening walks
• Backyard movies
Father’s Day events
Feet wearing flip-flops
Strawberries on the vine
Graduates dressed in caps
and gowns
Children on the last day
of school
Brides getting ready for
the big day
July:
Farm fields
Family reunions
Camping activities
Fun in the sun
• Water fights
• Sunbathing
• Pool time
• People boating
• Swimming lessons
A concert in the park
Girls playing Hula-hoop
Ice-cream or snow cones
Watermelon ready to serve
Fourth of July celebrations
• Firework displays
large and small
• Parades
• People wearing red,
white and blue
• Flags flying
• Military personnel in
full regalia
A boy holding a worm,
frog or bug
August:
Sprinkler fun
Corn on the cob
Summer sunsets
People on bike rides
Vacations and travels
A pitcher of lemonade
NFL preseason parties
A couple holding hands
Back-to-school shopping
County, town or state fairs
September:
Football games
Tailgating parties
Fishing excitement
Family in sweaters
Apple-picking events
Freshly baked cookies
Leaves changing color
Visits with grandparents
Happenings on the first
day of school
• Catching the bus
• Wearing the first-dayof-
school outfit
• Packing the first lunch
• Meeting the teacher
• Stacking the kids’
schoolbooks
• Seeing or walking into
the new classroom
• Reading the school
schedule
• Buying new backpacks
and shoes
Car rides through the
canyons or mountains
October:
Hayrides
Bare trees
Scarecrows
Corn mazes
Haunted houses
Pumpkins at night
World Series parties
Kids jumping in piles of
fallen leaves
A train rolling across the
golden landscape
Homecoming celebrations
at school
November:
Baked pies
Geese flying south
Family gatherings
Thanksgiving dinner
• Loved ones preparing
the food
• People setting the table
• Home decor
• The family at the table
• People watching a
game after dinner
Black Friday madness
The first snowfall
Family photo shoot for
holiday cards
Dogs or kids playing in
the first snow
Thanksgiving leftovers in
the refrigerator
Family members turning
on Christmas lights
December:
Hockey games
Snowball fights
Canned-food drives
Community service
Friends sharing a laugh
Menorah being lit
New Year’s Eve parties
Family gathered around
the fireplace
Slippered feet lined up in
a row or in a circle
Christmas activities
• Gifts being wrapped
• Holiday shopping
• Cookie plate placed
out for Santa
• Children writing letters
to Santa
• Loved ones visiting
Santa at the mall
• Home decor
• Nativity scenes
• Carolers
• Trimmed trees
• Mantle with your
hung stockings
• Outdoor decor
• The holiday table
• Shopping bags filled
from mall outings
Oh, and if you have any other creative crafty ideas for me--bring 'em on!
Friday, August 26, 2011
Flashback: 6 Years
Today was freshman Move-In Day here at Muskingum University. For the majority of the day I was in my office at work and was away from the mass chaos, but during lunch I returned to my apartment for some relaxation. It was then that I flashed back to my own freshman move-in day six years ago at good old B-Dubs. I remember being nervous, hoping my roommate would be as normal in person as she sounded on the phone and on Facebook, and I was scared about leaving my high school boyfriend at home while I was left to face college all by myself. At Convocation that day, all I could think was, "Jessica, you made a mistake. This is not for you. You don't want to be here." I was scared to death and the thought of my parents leaving was unbearable--surprising coming from someone who did not have the best relationship with their parents at the time.
I'm sure some of the freshman here were thinking the same things I was. Starting college is both exciting and scary at the same time. There's the excitement that goes along with going to Target and picking everything out for your new dorm room and thinking about all the things you can do now that you will be "living on your own." And then there's reality--who's going to do my laundry? What if I don't like what they're serving for dinner?
I look back at my college move-in day now and wonder what in the world I was thinking. If I could go back and do it again, I would still choose BW. I had the time of my life in college and cannot imagine a better experience. I can honestly say that the school was a perfect fit for me, and once I got through that first day things got a whole lot better. Yeah, it can be hard leaving your parents for the first time, but my relationship with my parents honestly grew stronger while I was away from them. And leaving my boyfriend behind? Well, it took me awhile to realize it, but it was the best decision I ever made. College can open your eyes to so many things that you were naive to before and give you a whole new perspective on life. It did for me. I miss those days--living in the dorms with my friends, staying up late just goofing around, using my Jacket Express to buy candy and movie tickets at the Candy Counter (sorry, Mom & Dad), and not having to really worry about the "real world."
To all of the college freshman out there--make the most of the next four years. You might be nervous or scared now, but the faster you get over it the quicker you will learn to love college and grow as a person. Cherish your new friendships, but don't forget about the ones at home, either. Live life. It's okay to make mistakes-we all do-just try not to be too stupid or obvious about it :)
It's fun living back on a college campus and being put in a situation that causes you to look back and reflect on your own experience not that long ago. It's crazy how much a person can change in that amount of time. Thank you, Muskingum freshmen, for reminding me of the good old days!
I'm sure some of the freshman here were thinking the same things I was. Starting college is both exciting and scary at the same time. There's the excitement that goes along with going to Target and picking everything out for your new dorm room and thinking about all the things you can do now that you will be "living on your own." And then there's reality--who's going to do my laundry? What if I don't like what they're serving for dinner?
I look back at my college move-in day now and wonder what in the world I was thinking. If I could go back and do it again, I would still choose BW. I had the time of my life in college and cannot imagine a better experience. I can honestly say that the school was a perfect fit for me, and once I got through that first day things got a whole lot better. Yeah, it can be hard leaving your parents for the first time, but my relationship with my parents honestly grew stronger while I was away from them. And leaving my boyfriend behind? Well, it took me awhile to realize it, but it was the best decision I ever made. College can open your eyes to so many things that you were naive to before and give you a whole new perspective on life. It did for me. I miss those days--living in the dorms with my friends, staying up late just goofing around, using my Jacket Express to buy candy and movie tickets at the Candy Counter (sorry, Mom & Dad), and not having to really worry about the "real world."
To all of the college freshman out there--make the most of the next four years. You might be nervous or scared now, but the faster you get over it the quicker you will learn to love college and grow as a person. Cherish your new friendships, but don't forget about the ones at home, either. Live life. It's okay to make mistakes-we all do-just try not to be too stupid or obvious about it :)
It's fun living back on a college campus and being put in a situation that causes you to look back and reflect on your own experience not that long ago. It's crazy how much a person can change in that amount of time. Thank you, Muskingum freshmen, for reminding me of the good old days!
Opening Weekend--it POURED!
Homecoming with 21 Beech friends
Most of the 2005-2006 21 Beech-ers
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Whirlwind Weekend
Last weekend I was fortunate enough to head home for the first time since the big move down south! It was a busy few days, to say the least, but many memories were made and I was thankful to be able to spend time with many family and friends.
Friday I left work an hour or so early to pick up Miss Bella from my apartment and start the journey home. Once in Akron, I dropped Bella off at my parents' house, got lots of kisses from puppy dog Scout, then got back in the car to drive to Strongsville. After a quick stop at Forever 21 (remember, I currently live in the middle of nowhere), I met up with good college friends to celebrate Elizabeth's 24th birthday at Buca di Beppo. Delicious Italian food, 5 good friends, followed by an interesting new board game. We had lots of laughs and am glad we were able to gather to celebrate yet another birthday.
Saturday was an absolute blur, but I knew this going in. First up, Saturday morning. Quick stop with Chris to Subway for a nice breakfast sandwich (where was my favorite sandwich artist when I needed him?!) and then we drove up to Cleveland for the OROC (OutRun Ovarian Cancer) 5k. This was an event I have been looking forward to ever since I found out about it. My grandmother passed away from ovarian cancer when I was in kindergarten and I have never really had the opportunity to do something in memory of her. This was my chance. The event was huge and it was so inspiring to see all of the survivors there, along with the family members of others who were not so fortunate. I was amazed when it was announced that the t-shirts this year were designed by the youngest survivor participant--a junior in high school. Props to that girl for fighting and for being an inspiration to others. We had 9 people running for Team Uno (named after the card game I remember playing with my grandmother), and I am so thankful to those that participated. Everyone ran well, and the backdrop of downtown Cleveland didn't hurt either.
After the race it was time to run errands, followed by get ready for wedding time! I left North Olmsted to head to Emily and Paul's wedding, which was an absolutely beautiful event. It seems like Emily and I are always missing each other when I visit my sister in DC, and it meant a lot to me to be able to share their special day with them. Both Bride and Groom looked wonderful and so happy to finally be married and living in the same state. I know they will have a beautiful life together and I pray that they fall more and more in love with each other each and every day.
After the wedding I drove back down to Akron for my dear friend Natalie's Bachelorette Party in the Valley! I met up with the group of girls after they had been out for awhile, but I sure didn't miss out on all the fun. At each bar Natalie had cards we picked for her that had different "dares" for her that she had to complete. Some of the ones she had to do while I was there were to ask a guy to show her a hidden tattoo, steal a sip of someone's drink without them knowing, and find a guy to take off his shirt and flex his muscles for everyone at the bar. Needless to say, not everyone was cooperative, but we found some pretty interesting guys to participate. Any time I spend with my friends from home is a blessing, and I am so looking forward to Natalie and PJ's wedding in just EIGHT DAYS!!!
Needless to say, I was exhausted after Natalie's Bachelorette Party and slept in pretty late on Sunday. However, when you're a Brady sister and you are visiting home, it is absolutely necessary to go on a shopping trip with Mom. So that's what I did. My mom and I spent the day together running to a few stores, having lunch, and then meeting up with Dad to see the Vietnam War Memorial that was set up near a cemetery in Fairlawn. It was a replica 3/4 the size of the wall in Washington, DC and it was just as emotional as seeing the real thing. There were also pictures and memorabilia (if you can call it that?) from the war. Of course, the Army was there, and it was kind of a reality check to see the men in their uniforms, the guns, etc. (I guess I forgot to mention in my last blog, Chris joined the Army and is leaving in November). Two of the nice soldiers decided I needed to learn how to throw a grenade, so they taught me. Apparently my 12 years of softball paid off because they said I would've hit and killed my target. Thanks, Coach Dad!
After heading home from our shopping excursion, I made the trek back down to good old New Concord to get ready for another week of work. All in all, it was a wonderful weekend and I am looking forward to my next trip home (next weekend) to spend more time with more family and friends!
Friday I left work an hour or so early to pick up Miss Bella from my apartment and start the journey home. Once in Akron, I dropped Bella off at my parents' house, got lots of kisses from puppy dog Scout, then got back in the car to drive to Strongsville. After a quick stop at Forever 21 (remember, I currently live in the middle of nowhere), I met up with good college friends to celebrate Elizabeth's 24th birthday at Buca di Beppo. Delicious Italian food, 5 good friends, followed by an interesting new board game. We had lots of laughs and am glad we were able to gather to celebrate yet another birthday.
The 5 of us at dinner
Saturday was an absolute blur, but I knew this going in. First up, Saturday morning. Quick stop with Chris to Subway for a nice breakfast sandwich (where was my favorite sandwich artist when I needed him?!) and then we drove up to Cleveland for the OROC (OutRun Ovarian Cancer) 5k. This was an event I have been looking forward to ever since I found out about it. My grandmother passed away from ovarian cancer when I was in kindergarten and I have never really had the opportunity to do something in memory of her. This was my chance. The event was huge and it was so inspiring to see all of the survivors there, along with the family members of others who were not so fortunate. I was amazed when it was announced that the t-shirts this year were designed by the youngest survivor participant--a junior in high school. Props to that girl for fighting and for being an inspiration to others. We had 9 people running for Team Uno (named after the card game I remember playing with my grandmother), and I am so thankful to those that participated. Everyone ran well, and the backdrop of downtown Cleveland didn't hurt either.
Haley and me before the race
Anna, Me, and Lindsey after finishing
After the race it was time to run errands, followed by get ready for wedding time! I left North Olmsted to head to Emily and Paul's wedding, which was an absolutely beautiful event. It seems like Emily and I are always missing each other when I visit my sister in DC, and it meant a lot to me to be able to share their special day with them. Both Bride and Groom looked wonderful and so happy to finally be married and living in the same state. I know they will have a beautiful life together and I pray that they fall more and more in love with each other each and every day.
Emily and her dad heading down the aisle
First kiss as husband and wife
Me with the new Mr. & Mrs. Glass!
After the wedding I drove back down to Akron for my dear friend Natalie's Bachelorette Party in the Valley! I met up with the group of girls after they had been out for awhile, but I sure didn't miss out on all the fun. At each bar Natalie had cards we picked for her that had different "dares" for her that she had to complete. Some of the ones she had to do while I was there were to ask a guy to show her a hidden tattoo, steal a sip of someone's drink without them knowing, and find a guy to take off his shirt and flex his muscles for everyone at the bar. Needless to say, not everyone was cooperative, but we found some pretty interesting guys to participate. Any time I spend with my friends from home is a blessing, and I am so looking forward to Natalie and PJ's wedding in just EIGHT DAYS!!!
Natalie and Me shortly after I made it to the bar
Natalie, Me, and Britt--high school buddies
Needless to say, I was exhausted after Natalie's Bachelorette Party and slept in pretty late on Sunday. However, when you're a Brady sister and you are visiting home, it is absolutely necessary to go on a shopping trip with Mom. So that's what I did. My mom and I spent the day together running to a few stores, having lunch, and then meeting up with Dad to see the Vietnam War Memorial that was set up near a cemetery in Fairlawn. It was a replica 3/4 the size of the wall in Washington, DC and it was just as emotional as seeing the real thing. There were also pictures and memorabilia (if you can call it that?) from the war. Of course, the Army was there, and it was kind of a reality check to see the men in their uniforms, the guns, etc. (I guess I forgot to mention in my last blog, Chris joined the Army and is leaving in November). Two of the nice soldiers decided I needed to learn how to throw a grenade, so they taught me. Apparently my 12 years of softball paid off because they said I would've hit and killed my target. Thanks, Coach Dad!
Learning how to throw the grenade
The wall
After heading home from our shopping excursion, I made the trek back down to good old New Concord to get ready for another week of work. All in all, it was a wonderful weekend and I am looking forward to my next trip home (next weekend) to spend more time with more family and friends!
Friday, August 19, 2011
Greetings from New Concord
Hello, friends!
It has been quite some time since I have updated you all, thanks to some issues with Gmail, but I am back and ready to blog!
I am officially living in the lovely village of New Concord, Ohio, and I must say it has been a bit of a culture shock. Let me try to give you an idea of this place. I am living on campus at Muskingum University in an apartment. From campus I can walk to "town" which consists of the post office, the bank, the library, an ice cream stand, a Subway, a pizza place, a grocery store, and a Circle K. There are other random places such as a vets office, a dentist, etc. That's about all there is unless you drive another 15-20 minutes away. There is a farmer's market on Mondays (which I plan on checking out this week) and a winery (a 10-15 minute drive) that I checked out this weekend. Beyond that, trips to Cambridge and Zanesville are necessary. It is a dry town so the college students have to drive down the street about five minutes to a drive-thru if they want to buy any alcohol. My description does not even do this place justice...you have to see it for yourself.
As far as my new life here, I am enjoying it so far. I have met several coworkers who are around my age and who are also a lot of fun to hang out with. They have been so nice about including me in their get-togethers since day one and I have appreciated that so much. My job is going well, but I will like it so much better once students get here and I get to really start counseling them (I didn't get this Master's degree for nothing!). I am still getting my apartment organized and decorated and hope to post pictures once that process is complete. There is not a ton of storage so I feel like there is clutter, but I am trying to find creative ways to handle that situation.
This weekend I am heading to Akron/Cleveland for a crazy busy weekend that includes a friend's birthday, a 5k, a wedding, and a bachelorette party. I have a feeling it will be fun but not super relaxing.
I promise to keep you all posted now that I have this thing back up and running. Thanks for reading!
It has been quite some time since I have updated you all, thanks to some issues with Gmail, but I am back and ready to blog!
I am officially living in the lovely village of New Concord, Ohio, and I must say it has been a bit of a culture shock. Let me try to give you an idea of this place. I am living on campus at Muskingum University in an apartment. From campus I can walk to "town" which consists of the post office, the bank, the library, an ice cream stand, a Subway, a pizza place, a grocery store, and a Circle K. There are other random places such as a vets office, a dentist, etc. That's about all there is unless you drive another 15-20 minutes away. There is a farmer's market on Mondays (which I plan on checking out this week) and a winery (a 10-15 minute drive) that I checked out this weekend. Beyond that, trips to Cambridge and Zanesville are necessary. It is a dry town so the college students have to drive down the street about five minutes to a drive-thru if they want to buy any alcohol. My description does not even do this place justice...you have to see it for yourself.
As far as my new life here, I am enjoying it so far. I have met several coworkers who are around my age and who are also a lot of fun to hang out with. They have been so nice about including me in their get-togethers since day one and I have appreciated that so much. My job is going well, but I will like it so much better once students get here and I get to really start counseling them (I didn't get this Master's degree for nothing!). I am still getting my apartment organized and decorated and hope to post pictures once that process is complete. There is not a ton of storage so I feel like there is clutter, but I am trying to find creative ways to handle that situation.
This weekend I am heading to Akron/Cleveland for a crazy busy weekend that includes a friend's birthday, a 5k, a wedding, and a bachelorette party. I have a feeling it will be fun but not super relaxing.
I promise to keep you all posted now that I have this thing back up and running. Thanks for reading!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Jar of Hearts
My dad and I recorded this yesterday. We've been practicing. We try really hard, so at least pretend to like it, k?
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Final Countown!
Well, folks, here I am after many blog-less months. I've missed this lovely blog of mine, but can't say I've quite found the time to fit it in with everything else going on. Even now I have to be quick, as my bed is calling my name, reminding me that tomorrow is another fun--er work-filled day! I think the easiest way for me to update you all now is to create a lovely little list (and boy do I love lists!), and hopefully one day very soon I will be able to expand upon my little list and fill you in about all the details going on in my life!
Here goes...
Here goes...
- I am graduating with my Master's in 18 days. Can you believe it?! That lovely day, May 22nd, also happens to be my 24th birthday. What a lovely birthday present that will be! Ooh, and I get to wear a hood! How cool is that?!
- I am FINISHED with all that is grad school in just NINE days! One class, two take-home finals, and one in-class final to go. Beyond ready!
- I HAVE A JOB!!!! I will be a counselor in Counseling Services at Muskingum University next year! I am beyond excited to have landed the job of my dreams straight out of school and am really looking forward to what that will mean for my future career. Seriously, feeling so blessed right now!
- I don't start at Muskingum until August. I desperately need some sort of summer job so I can have somewhat of a life this summer.
- I get to go see my sister's new apartment in DC next weekend! What a way to celebrate the end of my degree! Road trip with Sue and Chip--woot! Going to visit again over Memorial Day with Christopher. Is that Georgetown Cupcake I hear calling my name?
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
It's Been Awhile!
Well my friends, it has definitely been awhile since my last post! Much has been going on and is continuing to happen in this crazy life I call reality!
As far as my goal to watch all 10 Best Picture nominated films before the Oscars, I am 70% there! We have "Winter's Bone" at my apartment waiting to be viewed, I am planning on seeing "Black Swan" tomorrow, and then I'll just have to see "True Grit" before the 27th. I'm excited that the completion of this task is actually happening!
As you all know, yesterday was Valentine's Day, and many of you also know that I am quite the sap. Therefore, I love Valentine's Day and all of the romance that comes along with it. While I did not get to celebrate with my wonderful Valentine yesterday due to work and school, we had an amazing time celebrating this weekend! Saturday was our personal Valentine's Day and we went out for a nice dinner to Wild Mango in North Olmsted. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was wonderful, and the prices were very reasonable. We are already talking about going back! We then went to South Park Mall because Chris needed to return a pair of jeans (obviously the romantic part of our date! lol) and we ended up meeting my parents for dessert at Houlihan's. It was such a nice surprise that it worked out for us to meet up with them. We caught up, enjoyed some food, and then headed our separate ways.
On Sunday I had to go to a Narcotics Anonymous meeting as a requirement for my Chemical Dependency Counseling class, and my friend picked me up at Chris' apartment since the meeting was in Elyria. The meeting was fine, but the better part was coming back to Chris' apartment to find flowers, a sweet card, and the cutest elephant stuffed animal (they're my favorite!). He had already bought me my Valentine's Day gift a few weeks prior, but this was such a thoughtful surprise. He truly is the best!
So now that Valentine's Day is over, I am faced with the reality that my life is absolutely crazy right now! My client load at my internship is picking up, which is definitely a good thing, but is also pretty stressful at the same time as it keeps me busy most hours I am at work. On top of that, I have many projects and papers that I should be starting for school to get ahead. I also registered to take the dreaded NCE licensure exam over my Spring Break, so that has me stressed out/frantically studying as well. I will definitely be relieved to get it over with (and hopefully pass) so I can focus more on applying for jobs and completing all of the paperwork that needs to be done for the end of my internship/graduation. The last day of finals is exactly three months from today...the countdown begins!
Hope all of you are doing well and had a lovely Valentine's Day! I'm off to study =\
As far as my goal to watch all 10 Best Picture nominated films before the Oscars, I am 70% there! We have "Winter's Bone" at my apartment waiting to be viewed, I am planning on seeing "Black Swan" tomorrow, and then I'll just have to see "True Grit" before the 27th. I'm excited that the completion of this task is actually happening!
As you all know, yesterday was Valentine's Day, and many of you also know that I am quite the sap. Therefore, I love Valentine's Day and all of the romance that comes along with it. While I did not get to celebrate with my wonderful Valentine yesterday due to work and school, we had an amazing time celebrating this weekend! Saturday was our personal Valentine's Day and we went out for a nice dinner to Wild Mango in North Olmsted. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was wonderful, and the prices were very reasonable. We are already talking about going back! We then went to South Park Mall because Chris needed to return a pair of jeans (obviously the romantic part of our date! lol) and we ended up meeting my parents for dessert at Houlihan's. It was such a nice surprise that it worked out for us to meet up with them. We caught up, enjoyed some food, and then headed our separate ways.
On Sunday I had to go to a Narcotics Anonymous meeting as a requirement for my Chemical Dependency Counseling class, and my friend picked me up at Chris' apartment since the meeting was in Elyria. The meeting was fine, but the better part was coming back to Chris' apartment to find flowers, a sweet card, and the cutest elephant stuffed animal (they're my favorite!). He had already bought me my Valentine's Day gift a few weeks prior, but this was such a thoughtful surprise. He truly is the best!
My surprises
Heading out to dinner
So now that Valentine's Day is over, I am faced with the reality that my life is absolutely crazy right now! My client load at my internship is picking up, which is definitely a good thing, but is also pretty stressful at the same time as it keeps me busy most hours I am at work. On top of that, I have many projects and papers that I should be starting for school to get ahead. I also registered to take the dreaded NCE licensure exam over my Spring Break, so that has me stressed out/frantically studying as well. I will definitely be relieved to get it over with (and hopefully pass) so I can focus more on applying for jobs and completing all of the paperwork that needs to be done for the end of my internship/graduation. The last day of finals is exactly three months from today...the countdown begins!
Hope all of you are doing well and had a lovely Valentine's Day! I'm off to study =\
Saturday, February 5, 2011
Becoming A Movie Buff
Okay, so I'm not really becoming a movie buff, but for some reason this year I am a lot more interested in seeing the films that are nominated for Oscars before finding out which ones win. Maybe it's because I'd actually like to guess what is going to win based on my opinions of the movies. Who knows. Anyway, here are all of the movies nominated for Best Picture:
(Italicized titles are films I have seen. The rest I have not)
I have not watched the Oscars in awhile just because I haven't been super interested, but I can tell this year I will for sure since I actually know what I'm talking about. Anyone have any guesses as to what will win?
(Italicized titles are films I have seen. The rest I have not)
- Black Swan
- The Fighter
- Inception
- The Kids Are All Right
- The King's Speech
- 127 Hours
- The Social Network
- Toy Story 3
- True Grit
- Winter's Bone
I have not watched the Oscars in awhile just because I haven't been super interested, but I can tell this year I will for sure since I actually know what I'm talking about. Anyone have any guesses as to what will win?
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Refreshed, Renewed, Restored
It's been awhile since I've update. School, work, life get in the way. However, last weekend something happened to me and I have to write about it! My dear friend Biz invited me to a Women's Retreat through her church this past Saturday. I was looking forward to it, unsure of what to expect, but went into it with an open mind. I am so glad I did!
Let me back up a little bit to Friday night. Because the retreat took place at The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake (quite a drive for me), I had a sleepover at Biz's the night before. If I didn't know it before, this evening affirmed for me how truly blessed I am to know this incredible family. I was welcomed with open arms to Biz's dad's birthday dinner and was treated like family the rest of the evening. I am certain that this family was put on Earth to brighten the lives of those they encounter, and they are dutifully fulfilling their calling in life. I know without a doubt that God has a very special place for this family in Heaven.
On Saturday morning Biz's sister-in-law, Maria, picked us up to head to the retreat which consisted of worship, a speaker (Sharon Jaynes), small groups, and a break (time for us women to be women and socialize!). Sharon was wonderful and spoke of forgiveness, our thoughts, and our words. I was especially struck by her words on forgiveness. There were things from my past that I had not forgiven and that my heart was dying to let go of. Her words served as motivation for me to truly let go and forgive. It was such a liberating experience. My small group was led by Biz's older sister, Cat, and again it was an amazing experience. Biz's other sister-in-law, Beth, was also there and it was wonderful to share with her, as well.
Honestly, words cannot describe how I feel about this day. It was exactly what I needed--a day away from the world to focus on me and my relationship with God. No worries about school, work, life in general. Exactly what the doctor ordered. Now I feel refreshed, renewed, and restored (thus the title of my blog!) and ready to take on whatever life throws at me. It is my goal to allow myself time each day to do what I did on Saturday because I don't want to go back to the way I felt before. It is also my goal to be baptized by the end of 2011 =)
Let me back up a little bit to Friday night. Because the retreat took place at The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake (quite a drive for me), I had a sleepover at Biz's the night before. If I didn't know it before, this evening affirmed for me how truly blessed I am to know this incredible family. I was welcomed with open arms to Biz's dad's birthday dinner and was treated like family the rest of the evening. I am certain that this family was put on Earth to brighten the lives of those they encounter, and they are dutifully fulfilling their calling in life. I know without a doubt that God has a very special place for this family in Heaven.
On Saturday morning Biz's sister-in-law, Maria, picked us up to head to the retreat which consisted of worship, a speaker (Sharon Jaynes), small groups, and a break (time for us women to be women and socialize!). Sharon was wonderful and spoke of forgiveness, our thoughts, and our words. I was especially struck by her words on forgiveness. There were things from my past that I had not forgiven and that my heart was dying to let go of. Her words served as motivation for me to truly let go and forgive. It was such a liberating experience. My small group was led by Biz's older sister, Cat, and again it was an amazing experience. Biz's other sister-in-law, Beth, was also there and it was wonderful to share with her, as well.
Honestly, words cannot describe how I feel about this day. It was exactly what I needed--a day away from the world to focus on me and my relationship with God. No worries about school, work, life in general. Exactly what the doctor ordered. Now I feel refreshed, renewed, and restored (thus the title of my blog!) and ready to take on whatever life throws at me. It is my goal to allow myself time each day to do what I did on Saturday because I don't want to go back to the way I felt before. It is also my goal to be baptized by the end of 2011 =)
For the Ladies
Saw this while doing research for a client and thought it was too good not to post:
you were born a daughter.
you looked up to your mother.
you looked up to your father.
you looked up to everyone...
you wanted to be a princess.
you wanted to own a horse.
you wanted to wear pink.
you never wanted to wear pink.
you wanted to be a veterinarian.
you wanted to be president.
you wanted to be the president's beterinarian.
you were picked last for the team.
you were the best one on the team.
you refused to be on the team.
you wanted to do well in algebra.
you hid during algebra.
you wanted boys to notice you.
you were afraid the boys would notice you.
you started to get acne.
you started to get breasts.
you started to get acne that was bigger than your breasts.
you wouldn't wear a bra.
you couldn't wait to wear a bra.
you couldn't fit into a bra.
you didn't like the way you looked.
you didn't like the way your parents looked.
you didn't want to grow up.
you had your first best friend.
you had your first date.
you spent hours on the telephone.
you got kissed.
you got to kiss back.
you went to the prom.
you didn't go to the prom.
you went to the prom with the wrong person.
you spent hours on the telephone.
you fell in love.
you fell in love.
you fell in love.
you lost your best friend.
you lost your other best friend.
you really fell in love.
you became a steady girlfriend.
you became a significant other.
you became significant to yourself.
sooner or later, you started to take yourself seriously.
you know when you need a break.
you know when you need a rest.
you know what to get worked up about, and what to get rid of.
and you know when it's time to take care of yourself, for yourself.
to do something that makes you stronger, faster, more complete.
because you know it's never too late to live life.
and never too late to change one.
-Anonymous
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Oldie but Goodie!
I'll Always Be Right There by Michelle Branch
When you're all alone,
and you need a light,
someone to guide you through the night,
just remember that I am here,
to hold you close and dry your tears.
And just when you thought you were falling,
but you know I'll always be right there.
When you're all alone,
and you need a friend,
someone to help you to the end,
when you need someone to catch you when you fall,
I'll be there through it all.
Cause just when you thought you were losing,
but you know I'll always be right there.
And I'll be there through the good times,
and the bad,
and we'll be there for each other,
cause you're the best friend I've ever had.
And just when you thought you were falling,
but you know I'll always be right there.
Oh, whenever you need me,
I'll always be right there.
When you're all alone,
and you need a light,
someone to guide you through the night,
just remember that I am here,
to hold you close and dry your tears.
And just when you thought you were falling,
but you know I'll always be right there.
When you're all alone,
and you need a friend,
someone to help you to the end,
when you need someone to catch you when you fall,
I'll be there through it all.
Cause just when you thought you were losing,
but you know I'll always be right there.
And I'll be there through the good times,
and the bad,
and we'll be there for each other,
cause you're the best friend I've ever had.
And just when you thought you were falling,
but you know I'll always be right there.
Oh, whenever you need me,
I'll always be right there.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Friday, January 7, 2011
Who Wants a Puppy?
So right around Christmas I found a dog on my way home from work at the candy store. Seeing as how I live in an apartment and have a cat who is not a big fan of dogs, I could not keep him. However, he has been taken to One of a Kind Pets in Fairlawn, Ohio and is currently up for adoption. He was a very sweet, playful boy and I would love for him to find a good home. Here is the link if you want to take a look at this handsome boy and find a home for Henry!
http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/18329986
http://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/18329986
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
2011 in Pictures!
I've decided that as part of my blog for 2011 I am going to do my best to post a picture for everyday of the year. They might be something random I saw and took a picture of, an exciting event, or something I found on the internet and fell in love with. I am going to try to post everyday, but can't make any promises (especially because I'm already 4 days behind!). Happy 2011! Make the most of it and don't forget to take pictures as a reminder of the many wonderful memories you will make!
January 1st, 2011--New Year's Day!
Heading out for a dinner and movie date with Christopher
January 2nd, 2011
Kisses for my kitty!
January 3rd, 2011
Bella's yearly check-up at the vet...she was hiding
under my coat in the office while the doctor went to
get her shots ready
No pictures yet for today, but I will definitely keep an eye out for something good!
January 1st, 2011--New Year's Day!
Heading out for a dinner and movie date with Christopher
January 2nd, 2011
Kisses for my kitty!
January 3rd, 2011
Bella's yearly check-up at the vet...she was hiding
under my coat in the office while the doctor went to
get her shots ready
No pictures yet for today, but I will definitely keep an eye out for something good!
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