Here are a few...Enjoy!
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
Monday, December 03, 2007
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Christmas Letter
So, I was looking around at various church websites to get some ideas in regards to expanding ours and I came upon a sermon. One sermon was talking about the story of Jesus' birth and in it was a humorous Christmas letter. I can't help but share...ENJOY!
Dec. 25, 0001
It’s been quite a year for us. Maybe you’ve heard the news already through an angelic visitation (does that happen to everyone or just to us?), but we have a baby boy who’s just celebrating his first birthday. Things didn’t quite work out the way we hoped—Mary got pregnant before our wedding day and I almost called the whole thing off. But this guy Gabriel (he said he was an angel) convinced me this was part of God’s plan, so we stayed together and eventually tied the knot.
The timing could have been better: just when Mary was ready to deliver, the Emperor decided the whole world should be registered (more unnecessary government bureaucracy if you ask me), so we had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Old Bessie (our donkey) has a few miles on her, so we were pretty nervous about the long trip, but it had to be done. Poor Mary was really uncomfortable in her ninth month, and then—wouldn’t you know?—so many people had come back home to Bethlehem that we couldn’t find a place to stay. Guess I should have called ahead for reservations, but we were pretty busy praising God and trying to wallpaper the nursery. At least we knew it would be a boy!
I knocked on the doors of all my old classmates (it was great to see all of you again, by the way), but no one had an extra couch. We finally had to settle for a stable, and let me tell you it made Motel 6 look like a palace. I will say the ox and ass were a welcome change from Grandpa Zach’s snoring. Don’t tell Grandma, but we had to use a manger for a crib when Jesus was born. Just when we thought things were settling down, a pack of local shepherds showed up and---you guessed it---more angels. Then there was a lot of singing (woke Jesus up, just when we had gotten him to sleep) and then the shepherds went out telling everybody about our baby. Mary kept hoping no one would come and visit us while we were still in that stable that smelled to high heaven. A few weeks later we made the 10-mile trip to Jerusalem so Jesus could be presented at the Temple, and I have to say Simeon and Anna did a beautiful job giving him a blessing. Finally I got back to work at the carpenter shop in Galilee, and there were a lot of orders waiting—you all know how crazy Passover can be.
I don’t have time to tell you about a bunch of wise men who came along later, because right now we’re packing again---this time to go to Egypt. It looks like we may need to hide out for awhile thanks to Herod and his administration. The good news is we were able to trade in Bessie for a hybrid—much better mileage and plenty of room for the baby in back. If things continue this way for us, I think somebody should write a book!
Love, Joseph, Mary and Jesus
The story of Christmas is a divine comedy.
Dec. 25, 0001
It’s been quite a year for us. Maybe you’ve heard the news already through an angelic visitation (does that happen to everyone or just to us?), but we have a baby boy who’s just celebrating his first birthday. Things didn’t quite work out the way we hoped—Mary got pregnant before our wedding day and I almost called the whole thing off. But this guy Gabriel (he said he was an angel) convinced me this was part of God’s plan, so we stayed together and eventually tied the knot.
The timing could have been better: just when Mary was ready to deliver, the Emperor decided the whole world should be registered (more unnecessary government bureaucracy if you ask me), so we had to travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem. Old Bessie (our donkey) has a few miles on her, so we were pretty nervous about the long trip, but it had to be done. Poor Mary was really uncomfortable in her ninth month, and then—wouldn’t you know?—so many people had come back home to Bethlehem that we couldn’t find a place to stay. Guess I should have called ahead for reservations, but we were pretty busy praising God and trying to wallpaper the nursery. At least we knew it would be a boy!
I knocked on the doors of all my old classmates (it was great to see all of you again, by the way), but no one had an extra couch. We finally had to settle for a stable, and let me tell you it made Motel 6 look like a palace. I will say the ox and ass were a welcome change from Grandpa Zach’s snoring. Don’t tell Grandma, but we had to use a manger for a crib when Jesus was born. Just when we thought things were settling down, a pack of local shepherds showed up and---you guessed it---more angels. Then there was a lot of singing (woke Jesus up, just when we had gotten him to sleep) and then the shepherds went out telling everybody about our baby. Mary kept hoping no one would come and visit us while we were still in that stable that smelled to high heaven. A few weeks later we made the 10-mile trip to Jerusalem so Jesus could be presented at the Temple, and I have to say Simeon and Anna did a beautiful job giving him a blessing. Finally I got back to work at the carpenter shop in Galilee, and there were a lot of orders waiting—you all know how crazy Passover can be.
I don’t have time to tell you about a bunch of wise men who came along later, because right now we’re packing again---this time to go to Egypt. It looks like we may need to hide out for awhile thanks to Herod and his administration. The good news is we were able to trade in Bessie for a hybrid—much better mileage and plenty of room for the baby in back. If things continue this way for us, I think somebody should write a book!
Love, Joseph, Mary and Jesus
The story of Christmas is a divine comedy.
Saturday, December 01, 2007
12/01/07 Advent Devotional
December 1
Invitation
Quinn G. Caldwell
What if John was laughing when he said, “the kingdom of heaven has come near”?
What if what he meant by that wasn’t that the end of time, with fire and judgment
and your ultimate doom, was at hand? What if what he meant was that God’s realm,
God’s biggest dream, God’s fondest hope for us and all that we might become was drawing so close that it was about to break through into this time and place? Would it sound different to you? Would you live differently because of it? Would you understand why the people went to the desert to be dunked underwater by a wild man? What if “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” isn’t so much a threat as an invitation worth accepting?
Prayer: Come, God, come. Break into our world. Transform it. Transform me, that I
might be the way of the Lord, and that through my life, your creation might come a
step closer to the completion you dream of for it and for me. Amen.
In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, “Repent,
for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah
spoke when he said,
“The voice of one crying out in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord,
make his paths straight.’” Matthew 3:1-3
Invitation
Quinn G. Caldwell
What if John was laughing when he said, “the kingdom of heaven has come near”?
What if what he meant by that wasn’t that the end of time, with fire and judgment
and your ultimate doom, was at hand? What if what he meant was that God’s realm,
God’s biggest dream, God’s fondest hope for us and all that we might become was drawing so close that it was about to break through into this time and place? Would it sound different to you? Would you live differently because of it? Would you understand why the people went to the desert to be dunked underwater by a wild man? What if “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” isn’t so much a threat as an invitation worth accepting?
Prayer: Come, God, come. Break into our world. Transform it. Transform me, that I
might be the way of the Lord, and that through my life, your creation might come a
step closer to the completion you dream of for it and for me. Amen.
In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, “Repent,
for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah
spoke when he said,
“The voice of one crying out in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord,
make his paths straight.’” Matthew 3:1-3
Friday, November 30, 2007
TGIF!!
I can't believe it's the weekend already. So not complaining but still hard to believe!
Anyone else watch Dancing with the Stars! I'm so SO SO excited that Helio and Julianne won. I would have been upset if Marie Osmond won...because she would have won on her popularity alone. I can't wait till next season.
Anyone of my listeners know how to dance ballroom dances? Although I am a major chicken, I kinda would like to learn some of them...It would be fun...I think. LOL
Here is a little video of their final dances...including the freestyle dance!!
Anyone else watch Dancing with the Stars! I'm so SO SO excited that Helio and Julianne won. I would have been upset if Marie Osmond won...because she would have won on her popularity alone. I can't wait till next season.
Anyone of my listeners know how to dance ballroom dances? Although I am a major chicken, I kinda would like to learn some of them...It would be fun...I think. LOL
Here is a little video of their final dances...including the freestyle dance!!
Advent Devotional...Day 8
November 30
OfWindows and Doors
Quinn G. Caldwell
When we were young, if I walked through the living room and accidentally blocked
her view while my sister was watching TV, she would snarl from the couch, “You’d
make a better door than a window.” Not so with John the Baptist. Of course, it
could have gone differently than it did: John had had a miraculous birth, was full of the Holy Spirit, had the respect of the people and the fear of their leaders. He could have proclaimed himself history’s goal, and the people would have followed him. Instead, he made of his words, his actions, and his life windows through which the people could see the Realm of God and the coming Messiah. Are there ways in which you—or your church—have been acting as if you, and not Jesus, are the end toward which history is tending? As Advent nears, how might you be more like a window through which the world can see the coming Christ?
Prayer: O God, in you I have become great indeed. Help me to remember that the greatness with which you have gifted me is for your service alone. Make me transparent for the Gospel, a window through which all who meet me glimpse your goodness. Amen. As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the messiah, John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Luke 3:15-16
OfWindows and Doors
Quinn G. Caldwell
When we were young, if I walked through the living room and accidentally blocked
her view while my sister was watching TV, she would snarl from the couch, “You’d
make a better door than a window.” Not so with John the Baptist. Of course, it
could have gone differently than it did: John had had a miraculous birth, was full of the Holy Spirit, had the respect of the people and the fear of their leaders. He could have proclaimed himself history’s goal, and the people would have followed him. Instead, he made of his words, his actions, and his life windows through which the people could see the Realm of God and the coming Messiah. Are there ways in which you—or your church—have been acting as if you, and not Jesus, are the end toward which history is tending? As Advent nears, how might you be more like a window through which the world can see the coming Christ?
Prayer: O God, in you I have become great indeed. Help me to remember that the greatness with which you have gifted me is for your service alone. Make me transparent for the Gospel, a window through which all who meet me glimpse your goodness. Amen. As the people were filled with expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the messiah, John answered all of them by saying, “I baptize you with water; but one who is more powerful than I is coming; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” Luke 3:15-16
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Advent Devotional...7
Odd Things
Quinn G. Caldwell
John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. Mark 1:4-8
Camel hair, locusts, the desert: make no mistake, John the Baptist was a distinctly odd man. Then again, prophets tend to be at least a little bit odd, for the God for whom they speak tends to do some pretty odd things--like entering history as a human being. So we Christians do a lot of odd things of our own. We sprinkle water on ourselves and call it salvation, we share meals and believe that God sits at table with us, we proclaim that the poorest and most broken are dearest of all, we seek to create peace amid war, we proclaim that our flawed and broken churches are the very body of God in the world. Make no mistake: these are not things that the world considers normal. And yet they are the stuff we are made of, the signs we're known by. They are the way God continues to speak to God's odd people.
Prayer: O loving creator of all things, help me to live as St. Paul urged: help me to be in this world but not of it. By the grace of my baptism, make me odd to every way of the world that is not yours. Give me the strength to live less as a product of this world, more as a citizen of your coming realm, and so let me participate in your turning the one into the other. Amen.
Quinn G. Caldwell
John the baptizer appeared in the wilderness, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. And people from the whole Judean countryside and all the people of Jerusalem were going out to him, and were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. Now John was clothed with camel's hair, with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. Mark 1:4-8
Camel hair, locusts, the desert: make no mistake, John the Baptist was a distinctly odd man. Then again, prophets tend to be at least a little bit odd, for the God for whom they speak tends to do some pretty odd things--like entering history as a human being. So we Christians do a lot of odd things of our own. We sprinkle water on ourselves and call it salvation, we share meals and believe that God sits at table with us, we proclaim that the poorest and most broken are dearest of all, we seek to create peace amid war, we proclaim that our flawed and broken churches are the very body of God in the world. Make no mistake: these are not things that the world considers normal. And yet they are the stuff we are made of, the signs we're known by. They are the way God continues to speak to God's odd people.
Prayer: O loving creator of all things, help me to live as St. Paul urged: help me to be in this world but not of it. By the grace of my baptism, make me odd to every way of the world that is not yours. Give me the strength to live less as a product of this world, more as a citizen of your coming realm, and so let me participate in your turning the one into the other. Amen.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Say Merry Christmas!
Twas the month before Christmas
When all through our land,
Not a Christian was praying
Nor taking a stand.
See the PC Police had taken away,
The reason for Christmas - no one could say.
The children were told by their schools not to sing,
About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.
It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say
December 25th is just a " Holiday ".
Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit
Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!
CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod
Something was changing, something quite odd!
Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa
In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.
As Targets were hanging their trees upside down
At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.
At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears
You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.
Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty
Are words that were used to intimidate me.
Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen
On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton !
At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter
To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.
And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith
Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace
The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded
The reason for the season, stopped before it started.
So as you celebrate "Winter Break" under your "Dream Tree"
Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.
Choose your words carefully, choose what you say
Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS, not Happy Holiday !*
To Speak up or stay silent
let me first say that 95% of the time i enjoy my job...it's not *stressful* and the higher ups don't expect you to be perfect. If you make a mistakes, they don't scold you for it, but they help you to fix it.
now, some of the people i work with really drive me crazy. they constantly complain, stating that they have the most work out of all us and that nobody cares. UGH! first off, we ALL have heavy loads...sometimes more than others. but, i don't know how many times i've offered to help her and i get nothing. i hate the fact that this person is being SUCH a martyr...do i say something to my boss??? the negative attiude this person provides can really stress me out!
now, some of the people i work with really drive me crazy. they constantly complain, stating that they have the most work out of all us and that nobody cares. UGH! first off, we ALL have heavy loads...sometimes more than others. but, i don't know how many times i've offered to help her and i get nothing. i hate the fact that this person is being SUCH a martyr...do i say something to my boss??? the negative attiude this person provides can really stress me out!
Advent Devotional...Day Six
All Things are Possible
Quinn G. Caldwell
"Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord... he will be filled with the Holy Spirit." Luke 1:13-15
An angel comes to Zechariah and announces an unexpected thing: he and Elizabeth, here in their old age--what some might call their declining years--are to have a son, a miracle of a boy, filled with the Holy Spirit, born for the rejoicing of the people and the purposes of God. Understandably, he responds with disbelief. But what is unexpected for Zechariah is nothing new for the God that caused creation to spring into being at a word, who birthed the whole people of Israel from barren Abraham and Sarah. Much has been made of "the decline of the mainline churches" in recent years. The membership numbers do point in an unhappy direction, and many have come to expect an equally unhappy future. But our God is the God of unexpected things in surprising places, the one who makes new life to spring unexpectedly from old bodies. And we are a people learning to expect the unexpected.
Prayer: Come, God, come. Open me to your Spirit moving in me and in my church. Teach me to expect the new life--the miracles--you are nurturing even now in the deep places of my life. Amen.
Quinn G. Caldwell
"Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you will name him John. You will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord... he will be filled with the Holy Spirit." Luke 1:13-15
An angel comes to Zechariah and announces an unexpected thing: he and Elizabeth, here in their old age--what some might call their declining years--are to have a son, a miracle of a boy, filled with the Holy Spirit, born for the rejoicing of the people and the purposes of God. Understandably, he responds with disbelief. But what is unexpected for Zechariah is nothing new for the God that caused creation to spring into being at a word, who birthed the whole people of Israel from barren Abraham and Sarah. Much has been made of "the decline of the mainline churches" in recent years. The membership numbers do point in an unhappy direction, and many have come to expect an equally unhappy future. But our God is the God of unexpected things in surprising places, the one who makes new life to spring unexpectedly from old bodies. And we are a people learning to expect the unexpected.
Prayer: Come, God, come. Open me to your Spirit moving in me and in my church. Teach me to expect the new life--the miracles--you are nurturing even now in the deep places of my life. Amen.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Advent Devotional...Day Five
The glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together. Isaiah 40:5
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward all. Luke 2:14
William Green
All flesh. What part of "all" don't we get? God's embrace isn't for some flesh, but all flesh. We'll never meet a person whom God doesn't love. And yet we continue to construct walls that divide us--walls built on gender, race, class, religion, sexual orientation, and whatever else that distinguishes us from one another. Advent is a good time to look again at the "walls" that divide us. We can't celebrate the coming of Jesus without letting them crumble. What are these walls for you? Consider some "walls" that, at first, may not be obvious. Isn't tolerance a wall when it's a substitute for respect? Isn't being nice a wall when it's avoidance of difference? Isn't good will a wall when it's limited to conviviality and agreement?
Glory to God is peace on earth, good will toward all--and the angels are not going to take care of it for us. This is not a matter of following rules but of honoring relationships--with strangers as well as kin, with enemies as well as allies. When we honor others as ourselves, then, and only then, can we celebrate Christmas, finding in Jesus the love that welcomes us all, and brings us to our best.
Prayer: "Born all people to deliver, born a child, you came to reign! Born to rule on earth forever, come, be known to us again." Amen.
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward all. Luke 2:14
William Green
All flesh. What part of "all" don't we get? God's embrace isn't for some flesh, but all flesh. We'll never meet a person whom God doesn't love. And yet we continue to construct walls that divide us--walls built on gender, race, class, religion, sexual orientation, and whatever else that distinguishes us from one another. Advent is a good time to look again at the "walls" that divide us. We can't celebrate the coming of Jesus without letting them crumble. What are these walls for you? Consider some "walls" that, at first, may not be obvious. Isn't tolerance a wall when it's a substitute for respect? Isn't being nice a wall when it's avoidance of difference? Isn't good will a wall when it's limited to conviviality and agreement?
Glory to God is peace on earth, good will toward all--and the angels are not going to take care of it for us. This is not a matter of following rules but of honoring relationships--with strangers as well as kin, with enemies as well as allies. When we honor others as ourselves, then, and only then, can we celebrate Christmas, finding in Jesus the love that welcomes us all, and brings us to our best.
Prayer: "Born all people to deliver, born a child, you came to reign! Born to rule on earth forever, come, be known to us again." Amen.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Advent Devotional - Day Three
Your troubles will not overwhelm you... the hard trials that come will not hurt you. Isaiah 43:2
The church is always tempted to give easy answers to hard questions. Jesus did not say he was the answer. He said he was the way (John 14:6). As Maya Angelou put it in one of her poems, "When I say 'I am a Christian'/I'm not shouting 'I am saved.'/I'm whispering 'I get lost'/ That is why I chose this way.... " Faith is not the absence of doubt--or of heartache--but the willingness to be honest about it. A good way to prepare for the coming of Christ is to acknowledge heartache and doubt. In a Christmas card, stables glow, the cows don't smell, and it always looks soft for the baby Jesus. But Jesus was born in a real stable. There was no room in a more pleasant place. And so with us. Jesus becomes real, not simply amid warmth and happiness, but during hard times. And what turns out to matter more than answers is the assurance that we're not alone, there's nothing so strange about us--and we're on the right way.
Prayer: "Redeemer come! I open wide my heart to you; here, Christ abide! Let me your inner presence feel; your grace and love in me reveal." Amen.
The church is always tempted to give easy answers to hard questions. Jesus did not say he was the answer. He said he was the way (John 14:6). As Maya Angelou put it in one of her poems, "When I say 'I am a Christian'/I'm not shouting 'I am saved.'/I'm whispering 'I get lost'/ That is why I chose this way.... " Faith is not the absence of doubt--or of heartache--but the willingness to be honest about it. A good way to prepare for the coming of Christ is to acknowledge heartache and doubt. In a Christmas card, stables glow, the cows don't smell, and it always looks soft for the baby Jesus. But Jesus was born in a real stable. There was no room in a more pleasant place. And so with us. Jesus becomes real, not simply amid warmth and happiness, but during hard times. And what turns out to matter more than answers is the assurance that we're not alone, there's nothing so strange about us--and we're on the right way.
Prayer: "Redeemer come! I open wide my heart to you; here, Christ abide! Let me your inner presence feel; your grace and love in me reveal." Amen.
freerice.com
http://freerice.com/
For each word you get right, they donate 10 grains of rice through the United Nations to help end world hunger!
I donated 110 grains of rice...with a little help from an online dictionary though!
For each word you get right, they donate 10 grains of rice through the United Nations to help end world hunger!
I donated 110 grains of rice...with a little help from an online dictionary though!
Saturday, November 24, 2007
I'm Ready for Christmas!!
Now that Thanksgiving has passed and we're eating turkey leftovers...
I AM READY FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!
I don't believe in getting any Christmas decorations out until Thanksgiving has passed.
I've updated my blogger page and myspace to get in the holiday spirit.
One month from today is Christmas Eve...YIKES!!!
I AM READY FOR CHRISTMAS!!!!
I don't believe in getting any Christmas decorations out until Thanksgiving has passed.
I've updated my blogger page and myspace to get in the holiday spirit.
One month from today is Christmas Eve...YIKES!!!
Advent Devotional - Day Two
Fear not, for behold I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people. Luke 2:10
Seventy-six times from the beginning to the end of the Bible we find the words, "Fear not!" Almost always this accompanies great blessing, as at the birth of Christ and on Easter morning. Along with so many others in Scripture, the shepherds and those first at the empty tomb come upon something wonderful--and are told not to be afraid.
How often fear and joy work together in our lives. Something especially good happens to us--and we wonder when the other shoe will drop. Someone says the 'yes' we've wanted to hear, and we wonder whether we can really believe it.
Perhaps it's like the story of the boy who loved Mister Rogers and Captain Kangaroo. He was thrilled when Mister Rogers announced that the two would finally meet. But when that day finally came, after a minute of watching his two heroes together, he quietly left the room. Puzzled, his father followed him and asked why. "What is it? Is something wrong?" The boy looked up and said, "It's too good. It's just too good."
Are we prepared to believe there's such a thing as something too good not to be true? In the spirit of Advent, let's get ready!
Prayer: "Born all people to deliver, born a child, you came to reign! Born to rule on earth forever, come, be known to us again." Amen.
Seventy-six times from the beginning to the end of the Bible we find the words, "Fear not!" Almost always this accompanies great blessing, as at the birth of Christ and on Easter morning. Along with so many others in Scripture, the shepherds and those first at the empty tomb come upon something wonderful--and are told not to be afraid.
How often fear and joy work together in our lives. Something especially good happens to us--and we wonder when the other shoe will drop. Someone says the 'yes' we've wanted to hear, and we wonder whether we can really believe it.
Perhaps it's like the story of the boy who loved Mister Rogers and Captain Kangaroo. He was thrilled when Mister Rogers announced that the two would finally meet. But when that day finally came, after a minute of watching his two heroes together, he quietly left the room. Puzzled, his father followed him and asked why. "What is it? Is something wrong?" The boy looked up and said, "It's too good. It's just too good."
Are we prepared to believe there's such a thing as something too good not to be true? In the spirit of Advent, let's get ready!
Prayer: "Born all people to deliver, born a child, you came to reign! Born to rule on earth forever, come, be known to us again." Amen.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Devotional Day 1 - Expecting the Unexpected
Expecting the Unexpected
William Green
My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. Isaiah 55:8.
What do you expect? More of the same? Do you worry about the worst--or anticipate the best? Or do you just quit thinking about it? Advent is about getting ready for good news. This means repentance: turning from our ways to God's ways, giving up reliance on ourselves alone. This is an act of hope. It's a joy not a job because it involves something to look forward to! It's anticipation: expecting that goodness and mercy far greater than our own are waiting to be born anew for us and in the world. This "good news" seems unrealistic. But God's ways are not our ways. And God's love is stronger than the toughest trouble, surpassing what we can figure out. When we demand that life fit our rational expectations we put ourselves in charge: instead of trusting God, we play God. Whether what we face is beautiful or ugly, tragic or fortunate--or anywhere in between--all this is the grist of grace, the cradle of Christ... the means whereby love again becomes real for us. We can expect to be surprised.
Prayer: "Come, O long expected Jesus, born to set all people free; from our fears and sins release us; grant us your true liberty." Amen.
William Green
My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. Isaiah 55:8.
What do you expect? More of the same? Do you worry about the worst--or anticipate the best? Or do you just quit thinking about it? Advent is about getting ready for good news. This means repentance: turning from our ways to God's ways, giving up reliance on ourselves alone. This is an act of hope. It's a joy not a job because it involves something to look forward to! It's anticipation: expecting that goodness and mercy far greater than our own are waiting to be born anew for us and in the world. This "good news" seems unrealistic. But God's ways are not our ways. And God's love is stronger than the toughest trouble, surpassing what we can figure out. When we demand that life fit our rational expectations we put ourselves in charge: instead of trusting God, we play God. Whether what we face is beautiful or ugly, tragic or fortunate--or anywhere in between--all this is the grist of grace, the cradle of Christ... the means whereby love again becomes real for us. We can expect to be surprised.
Prayer: "Come, O long expected Jesus, born to set all people free; from our fears and sins release us; grant us your true liberty." Amen.
Advent Devotional
I'm getting these daily devotionals starting today all the way until Christmas Eve. I'll be sharing them here for my wonderful audience! :)
Black Friday
It's black friday and I am staying home! LOL No way am I going to be out in the stores..especially being so close to woodfield. I'm been doing some browsing online for stuff...maybe I'll buy a few things. We'll see...
anyone shopping today?
anyone shopping today?
Joke from my nephew...
"What does the smoked turkey say?"
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"cough cough....gobble gobble....cough cough"
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"cough cough....gobble gobble....cough cough"
Grateful Friday
I'm SO VERY grateful for yesterday.
I'm grateful that my grandmother finally got to meet her "granddaughter-in-law". My cousin met his wife while they were in basic in California. She was sent over to Korea before my cousin was, so she didn't get a chance to get home when he came home for a graduation celebration. They were married in Hawaii last summer and Gma wasn't strong enough for the trip. When my other cousin got married this summer, she wasn't able to get time away from the military. My sister and I (along with our families) hadn't gotten a chance to meet her either, so I was looking foward to it as well.
I'm grateful that Grandma is still thriving. Her physical body may be working against her, but her mental state is excellent. A few months ago, I wondered if she would be able to make it to this day or make it to her 90th birthday, which is next month. I know that not everyone is as lucky as I am, so I know that my time with her is limited. She could last another 10 years or she could be gone next year.
Not to mention it was my husband's "bird day" yesterday...that's what my nephew said..LOL
I'm grateful that my grandmother finally got to meet her "granddaughter-in-law". My cousin met his wife while they were in basic in California. She was sent over to Korea before my cousin was, so she didn't get a chance to get home when he came home for a graduation celebration. They were married in Hawaii last summer and Gma wasn't strong enough for the trip. When my other cousin got married this summer, she wasn't able to get time away from the military. My sister and I (along with our families) hadn't gotten a chance to meet her either, so I was looking foward to it as well.
I'm grateful that Grandma is still thriving. Her physical body may be working against her, but her mental state is excellent. A few months ago, I wondered if she would be able to make it to this day or make it to her 90th birthday, which is next month. I know that not everyone is as lucky as I am, so I know that my time with her is limited. She could last another 10 years or she could be gone next year.
Not to mention it was my husband's "bird day" yesterday...that's what my nephew said..LOL
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Thankful Thursday
What a wonderful day we had! A few bumps along the road, but I am thankful that we were all able to get together.
I got to my parents around 11:30...Mom and Dad did an awesome job getting the house together. I helped preparing a few of the dishes for cooking. Around 12:00 my sister, BIl and the boys arrived. Dad brought Grandma over about 1:00...we have discovered a new way for her to get up the stairs, since that is such a struggle for her. BIL brought over one of his lounge chairs that they used last week. She sits in the chair and they carry her in that way.
Shortly after, my aunt and uncle showed up with all of their family. My poor uncle was in pain with kidney stones. I left around 2:00 to pick up Bill from work. When we got back, I discovered that my aunt and uncle left along with my cousin and her husband to take uncle to the ER. Heather and her hubby came back so they could enjoy the dinner w/us. My mom said a wonderful prayer that almost made me cry, I was choking back the tears.
We had tons of food, lots of fun!! My aunt and uncle came back later and while the stone was still there, he was feeling better because of good pain medicine. After dinner, we did pics with the whole family and then had dessert...there were 3 or 4 pies, strawberry pretzel salad AND birthday cake!
Wonderful day!
I got to my parents around 11:30...Mom and Dad did an awesome job getting the house together. I helped preparing a few of the dishes for cooking. Around 12:00 my sister, BIl and the boys arrived. Dad brought Grandma over about 1:00...we have discovered a new way for her to get up the stairs, since that is such a struggle for her. BIL brought over one of his lounge chairs that they used last week. She sits in the chair and they carry her in that way.
Shortly after, my aunt and uncle showed up with all of their family. My poor uncle was in pain with kidney stones. I left around 2:00 to pick up Bill from work. When we got back, I discovered that my aunt and uncle left along with my cousin and her husband to take uncle to the ER. Heather and her hubby came back so they could enjoy the dinner w/us. My mom said a wonderful prayer that almost made me cry, I was choking back the tears.
We had tons of food, lots of fun!! My aunt and uncle came back later and while the stone was still there, he was feeling better because of good pain medicine. After dinner, we did pics with the whole family and then had dessert...there were 3 or 4 pies, strawberry pretzel salad AND birthday cake!
Wonderful day!
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Wednesday's post...a little late
This so reminds me of my nephew...cute kid...but he dances just like this!!
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Thanksgiving Menu
We're having Thanksgiving at my mom's this year...about 20 people will be there! WOW!
Turkey
Ham
Stuffing
Spinach
Corn Casserole
Mashed Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes (with marshmallows)
Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Bread
Pie
Birthday cake (for dh's birthday, since it's on Thanksgiving!)
Who will be there: Mom, Dad, Bill, me, Kathy, Phil, nephews, aunt, uncle, cousin and her husband, cousin and his wife, cousin, grandma, bob, joy, jess and her husband (friends of cousin)...WOWSER!
Turkey
Ham
Stuffing
Spinach
Corn Casserole
Mashed Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes (with marshmallows)
Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Bread
Pie
Birthday cake (for dh's birthday, since it's on Thanksgiving!)
Who will be there: Mom, Dad, Bill, me, Kathy, Phil, nephews, aunt, uncle, cousin and her husband, cousin and his wife, cousin, grandma, bob, joy, jess and her husband (friends of cousin)...WOWSER!
Monday, November 19, 2007
Hopefully...
This cough syrup will FINALLY get rid of my cough. There's nothing worse than coughing so hard that
a) you feel like you are coughing up a left lung
b) you cough so hard, that when you are done, you begin to see stars
c) you cough so hard, you start to wet your pants (OMG!)
I've been sick on and off since September...whether it's been a cold or allergies or whatever, it's annoying. My poor husband is ready to send me to the moon. I don't have a nice delicate cough, I have a barking cough...ugh
Doctor gave me a prescription for robotussin with codeine...good night jenn!
Happy Monday!!
a) you feel like you are coughing up a left lung
b) you cough so hard, that when you are done, you begin to see stars
c) you cough so hard, you start to wet your pants (OMG!)
I've been sick on and off since September...whether it's been a cold or allergies or whatever, it's annoying. My poor husband is ready to send me to the moon. I don't have a nice delicate cough, I have a barking cough...ugh
Doctor gave me a prescription for robotussin with codeine...good night jenn!
Happy Monday!!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Music Sunday...
Here are some of my favorites...some are happy...some are sad...but I love them all!
STAY
Sugarland
I've been sitting here staring at the clock on the wall
And I've been laying here praying, praying she won't call
It's just another call from home
And you'll get it and be gone
And I'll be crying
And I'll be begging you, baby
Beg you not to leave
But I'll be left here waiting
With my Heart on my sleeve
Oh, for the next time we'll be here
Seems like a million years
And I think I'm dying
What do I have to do to make you see
She can't love you like me?
Why don't you stay
I'm down on my knees
I'm so tired of being lonely
Don't I give you what you need
When she calls you to go
There is one thing you should know
We don't have to live this way
Baby, why don't you stay
You keep telling me, baby
There will come a time
When you will leave her arms
And forever be in mine
But I don't think that's the truth
And I don't like being used and I'm tired of waiting
It's too much pain to have to bear
To love a man you have to share
Why don't you stay
I'm down on my knees
I'm so tired of being lonely
Don't I give you what you need
When she calls you to go
There is one thing you should know
We don't have to live this way
Baby, why don't you stay
I can't take it any longer
But my will is getting stronger
And I think I know just what I have to do
I can't waste another minute
After all that I've put in it
I've given you my best
Why does she get the best of you
So next time you find you wanna leave her bed for mine
Why don't you stay
I'm up off my knees
I'm so tired of being lonely
You can't give me what I need
When she begs you not to go
There is one thing you should know
I don't have to live this way
Baby, why don't you stay, yeah
READY SET...DON'T GO.
Billy Ray and Miley Cyrus
She's gotta do what she's gotta do
And I've gotta like it or not
She's got dreams too big for this town
And she needs to give 'em a shot
Whatever they are
Looks like she's all ready to leave
Nothing left to pack
There ain't no room for me in that car
Even if she asked me to tag along
God I gotta be strong
She's at the startin' line of the rest of her life
As ready as she's ever been
Got the hunger and the stars in her eyes
The prize is hers to win
She's waitin' on my blessings before she hits that
open road
Baby get ready
Get set
Don't go
She says things are fallen into place
Feels like they're fallen apart
I painted this big ol' smile on my face
To hide my broken heart
If only she knew
This is where I don't say what I want so bad to say
This is where I want to but I won't get in the way
Of her and her dreams
And spreadin' her wings
She's at the startin' line of the rest of her life
As ready as she's ever been
Got the hunger and the stars in her eyes
The prize is hers to win
She's waitin' on my blessings before she hits that
open road
Baby get ready
Get set
Don't go
She's at the startin' line of the rest of her life
As ready as she's ever been
Got the hunger and the stars in her eyes
The prize is hers to win
She's waitin' on my blessings before she hits that
open road
Baby get ready
Get set
Please don't go
Don't go
Don't go
She's gotta do what she's gotta do
She's gotta do what she's gotta do
STAY
Sugarland
I've been sitting here staring at the clock on the wall
And I've been laying here praying, praying she won't call
It's just another call from home
And you'll get it and be gone
And I'll be crying
And I'll be begging you, baby
Beg you not to leave
But I'll be left here waiting
With my Heart on my sleeve
Oh, for the next time we'll be here
Seems like a million years
And I think I'm dying
What do I have to do to make you see
She can't love you like me?
Why don't you stay
I'm down on my knees
I'm so tired of being lonely
Don't I give you what you need
When she calls you to go
There is one thing you should know
We don't have to live this way
Baby, why don't you stay
You keep telling me, baby
There will come a time
When you will leave her arms
And forever be in mine
But I don't think that's the truth
And I don't like being used and I'm tired of waiting
It's too much pain to have to bear
To love a man you have to share
Why don't you stay
I'm down on my knees
I'm so tired of being lonely
Don't I give you what you need
When she calls you to go
There is one thing you should know
We don't have to live this way
Baby, why don't you stay
I can't take it any longer
But my will is getting stronger
And I think I know just what I have to do
I can't waste another minute
After all that I've put in it
I've given you my best
Why does she get the best of you
So next time you find you wanna leave her bed for mine
Why don't you stay
I'm up off my knees
I'm so tired of being lonely
You can't give me what I need
When she begs you not to go
There is one thing you should know
I don't have to live this way
Baby, why don't you stay, yeah
READY SET...DON'T GO.
Billy Ray and Miley Cyrus
She's gotta do what she's gotta do
And I've gotta like it or not
She's got dreams too big for this town
And she needs to give 'em a shot
Whatever they are
Looks like she's all ready to leave
Nothing left to pack
There ain't no room for me in that car
Even if she asked me to tag along
God I gotta be strong
She's at the startin' line of the rest of her life
As ready as she's ever been
Got the hunger and the stars in her eyes
The prize is hers to win
She's waitin' on my blessings before she hits that
open road
Baby get ready
Get set
Don't go
She says things are fallen into place
Feels like they're fallen apart
I painted this big ol' smile on my face
To hide my broken heart
If only she knew
This is where I don't say what I want so bad to say
This is where I want to but I won't get in the way
Of her and her dreams
And spreadin' her wings
She's at the startin' line of the rest of her life
As ready as she's ever been
Got the hunger and the stars in her eyes
The prize is hers to win
She's waitin' on my blessings before she hits that
open road
Baby get ready
Get set
Don't go
She's at the startin' line of the rest of her life
As ready as she's ever been
Got the hunger and the stars in her eyes
The prize is hers to win
She's waitin' on my blessings before she hits that
open road
Baby get ready
Get set
Please don't go
Don't go
Don't go
She's gotta do what she's gotta do
She's gotta do what she's gotta do
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Saturday plans
Well, today is big nephew's birthday. I can't believe he is 7 years old. His Transformers presents are wrapped, just waiting for Uncle Bill to get home! I'm looking forward to his party and seeing the boys again! :) I'll try and post a pic or two of the birthday boy later next week!
I can't believe that Thursday is Thanksgiving. Time is going by WAY TOO FAST!! This December is going to fly by with all of the church happenings and family happenings. 5 days after Christmas is GE's (grandma) 90th birthday, so we're trying to figure out what to do for her. Probably a little luncheon thing @ church, but that's up to Mom and Dad!
I'm looking forward to all the yummy food @ Thanksgiving...mom is making it this year, so I know it's going to be good! :)
I can't believe that Thursday is Thanksgiving. Time is going by WAY TOO FAST!! This December is going to fly by with all of the church happenings and family happenings. 5 days after Christmas is GE's (grandma) 90th birthday, so we're trying to figure out what to do for her. Probably a little luncheon thing @ church, but that's up to Mom and Dad!
I'm looking forward to all the yummy food @ Thanksgiving...mom is making it this year, so I know it's going to be good! :)
Friday, November 16, 2007
Installing Husband
Dear Tech Support,
Last year I upgraded from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0 and noticed a
distinct slow down in overall system performance -- particularly in the
flower and jewelry applications, which operated flawlessly under Boyfriend
5.0.
In addition, Husband 1.0 uninstalled many other valuable programs, such as
Romance 9.5 and Personal Attention 6.5 and then installed undesirable
programs such as NFL 5.0, NBA 3.0, and Golf Clubs 4.1.
Conversation 8.0 no longer runs, and Housecleaning 2.6 simply crashes the
system. I've tried running Nagging 5.3 to fix these problems, but to no
avail.
What can I do?
Signed, Desperate
-------------------------------------
Dear Desperate:
First keep in mind, Boyfriend 5.0 is an Entertainment Package, while Husband
1.0 is an Operating System. Please enter the command: "I Thought You Loved
Me.exe" and try to download Tears 6.2 and don't forget to install the Guilt
3.0 update.
If that application works as designed, Husband 1.0 should then
automatically run the applications Jewelry 2.0 and Flowers 3.5.
But remember, overuse of the above application can cause Husband 1.0 to
default to Grumpy Silence 2.5, Happy Hour 7.0 or Beer 6.1. Beer 6.1 is a
very bad program that will download the Snoring Loudly Beta.
Whatever you do, DO NOT install Mother-in-law 1.0 (it runs a virus in the
background that will eventually seize control of all your system
resources).
Also, do not attempt to reinstall the Boyfriend 5.0 program. These are
unsupported applications and will crash Husband 1.0 .
In summary, Husband 1.0 is a great program, but it does have limited
memory and cannot learn new applications quickly. You might consider buying
additional software to improve memory and performance. We recommend Food
3.0 and Hot Lingerie 7.7.
Good Luck, Tech Support
Last year I upgraded from Boyfriend 5.0 to Husband 1.0 and noticed a
distinct slow down in overall system performance -- particularly in the
flower and jewelry applications, which operated flawlessly under Boyfriend
5.0.
In addition, Husband 1.0 uninstalled many other valuable programs, such as
Romance 9.5 and Personal Attention 6.5 and then installed undesirable
programs such as NFL 5.0, NBA 3.0, and Golf Clubs 4.1.
Conversation 8.0 no longer runs, and Housecleaning 2.6 simply crashes the
system. I've tried running Nagging 5.3 to fix these problems, but to no
avail.
What can I do?
Signed, Desperate
-------------------------------------
Dear Desperate:
First keep in mind, Boyfriend 5.0 is an Entertainment Package, while Husband
1.0 is an Operating System. Please enter the command: "I Thought You Loved
Me.exe" and try to download Tears 6.2 and don't forget to install the Guilt
3.0 update.
If that application works as designed, Husband 1.0 should then
automatically run the applications Jewelry 2.0 and Flowers 3.5.
But remember, overuse of the above application can cause Husband 1.0 to
default to Grumpy Silence 2.5, Happy Hour 7.0 or Beer 6.1. Beer 6.1 is a
very bad program that will download the Snoring Loudly Beta.
Whatever you do, DO NOT install Mother-in-law 1.0 (it runs a virus in the
background that will eventually seize control of all your system
resources).
Also, do not attempt to reinstall the Boyfriend 5.0 program. These are
unsupported applications and will crash Husband 1.0 .
In summary, Husband 1.0 is a great program, but it does have limited
memory and cannot learn new applications quickly. You might consider buying
additional software to improve memory and performance. We recommend Food
3.0 and Hot Lingerie 7.7.
Good Luck, Tech Support
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Prayers for justice
This is a prayer request for a friend who's dealing with some major issues at the moment. I don't really feel comfortable sharing all the details but T's life and career have been jeoparized in this whole process. God, please grant her the justice that she so greatly deserves!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
A Little Prayer to Remember
Especially when times are tough....
Happy moments, praise God.
Difficult moments, seek God.
Quiet moments, worship God.
Painful moments, trust God.
Every moment, thank God.
I think that says it all.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Honoring our Veterans
Although my company didn't honor you by granting me a day off, I wanted to express my thanks and graditude for all of our veterans that have served, are serving, or plan to serve one day soon. Also, thanks to their families as they are also part of the military as well! You are ALL brave strong souls and we shouldn't just have one day to remember all of you!
Jenn
Jenn
Sunday, November 11, 2007
God is Still Speaking
Essentially, that is our motto of the church. In some publicity that came out recently, here are a few slogans that I thought were cool (and a little funny)
1. Our Faith is over 2000 years old...our thinking is not.
2. If you think getting up Sunday morning is hard, try raising from the dead.
3. If Jesus embraced Lepers, Prostitutes, & Convicts, shouldn't we?
Something to think and ponder about, eh??
Have a great week everyone!
1. Our Faith is over 2000 years old...our thinking is not.
2. If you think getting up Sunday morning is hard, try raising from the dead.
3. If Jesus embraced Lepers, Prostitutes, & Convicts, shouldn't we?
Something to think and ponder about, eh??
Have a great week everyone!
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Nice quiet Saturday and almost got us a kitty!!
For once, it was nice not having to go anywhere today! Well, I did have to go to get an oil change done. Afterwards, I headed over to Country Donuts and bought breakfast for me and mom.
We are looking for a kitty cat! We stopped at a pet store as they were having an adoption fair yesterday. I fell in love with two (well, actually I fell in love with all of them, but Bill told me I couldn't take them all home). We went back to the store after Bill got out of work. Sophie was a shy little kitty, but she was SO adorable and after a few minutes she warmed up to me. Bill grew up with cats and his mother bred cats, so this was nothing from him. As it turns out, the company that foster her, doesn't believe in declawing and Bill does...so sadly, we couldn't take her home. There were some other issues as well, and as sweet as she was, we weren't sure that this was the safest place for her. She had been an outside cat and will fight to get back outside, and will scratch at the windows and doors to get out. Being in a apartment AND on the third floor, we were nervous if she would be scratching the screen that with enough determination, that she would get out the window. Plus, we're in an apartment and don't want to lose our deposit.
Oh well, we will keep looking!! :) And it's all his fault that I now love cats!!
Friday, November 09, 2007
Dh's Birthday gift...
Since he couldn't wait until his actual birthday...we bought it a few weeks early! He's in 7th heaven!!
Thursday, November 08, 2007
what i'm thankful for...
last week during sunday school, i had the kids tell me some thing that they were thankful for. The list was too cute not to share...mind you...they are in kindergarten and first grade!
- my stuff that I have
- my fish
- food & family
- people who love me
- my hungriness (probably not a word, but we went with it)
- my gameboy
- that i have a place to live
- clothes
- everything!
- my dog
- my brothers
- coloring
- my sister
- water
- juices
- trees
- air
- best friends
- people
- pizzas
- teachers
- eating
- llamas (again, we don't ask, just list!)
Detentions = Hugging????
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21661718/
I think that this is CRAZY! This poor girl was hugging her friend to say good-bye for the weekend and they give her a detention. I saw this story this morning on the Today Show and I can't believe how far our society has gone. Don't get me wrong, I understand the need to "control" public displays of affection...but do these morons realize that if they forbid it...that worse will happen OUTSIDE of school?!?!?
Hug away sister, I'll sit in detention with ya!
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
How Well Do you know your states?
| You Know Your States |
 You got 10/10 correct. You've got a pretty good handle on US geography. There's a good chance you've visited at least a dozen of the fifty states. |
Monday, November 05, 2007
Pet Peeve...
Is the fact that on November 1st, all the commercials on the radio were talking about getting ready for Christmas! That when I went out to shopping on Thursday, the store was DECORATED FOR CHRISTMAS!?!?!?!?! WTF? That starting on Thursday, one of the local radio stations is going to start playing Christmas music 24-7. Um, you do people realize that we have another holiday that is happening on November 22nd. Yes, that's right...it's called Thanksgiving. Say it with me now....THANKS.....GIVING!
Don't get me wrong, I love Christmas, but I don't really start decorating or listening to music (and sometimes even shopping) until the day after Thanksgiving.
I would rather see people hold on to Christmas after the fact...we start decorating for it starting in September or October and BAM...December 26th...it all goes away. Let's go until January 6th...you know...the 12 days of Christmas.
Sorry...I feel better now...back to your regular scheduled programming!
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Saturday, November 03, 2007
homecoming part 2
Saturday morning, we headed back to campus. They had an alumni reception for all psych majors, so I stopped there first. I met up with my advisor, Dr. Rose. It was like I had never left! She remembered me immediately and was asking where I was at and how I was doing. I was QUITE proud to share that I was in a job where I was actually using my major! Of course, we didn't have enough time to get all caught up but it was so great to see her again. I will defintely be keeping in touch with her!
Afterwards, I headed over to the college center for the SAI (sigma alpha iota) alumni reception. I was a little disappointed, there were no alums...just actives. but the girls were cute, asking what I was doing, what was my favorite part of sai. At 12, we headed to lunch at another local eatery and met up with brandy...another alum who is living in town! Again, it was another trip down memory lane of all the parties and get togethers. She filled us in on gossip of some people that we had lost touch with. We were there till almost 3:00. After lunch, Marcy, Brandy and i went for a pedicure. HEAVEN! Afterwards, I headed back to campus to buy a sweatshirt and the scrapbook kit (yes, I am sick in head) and took pictures of the awesome fall foliage! When i left campus, I was a little sad. The weekend went by so quickly, and all weekend, all that was running through my mind was the wonderful memories and the wonderful LASTING friendships i made while I was there!
Sunday, we got up and headed to breakfast at IHOP...from there, we all went our seperate ways and headed for home! It was great to catch up with everyone again and we made promises to not wait another 10 years before seeing each other again! Especially since we're all living in the same area practically!
Afterwards, I headed over to the college center for the SAI (sigma alpha iota) alumni reception. I was a little disappointed, there were no alums...just actives. but the girls were cute, asking what I was doing, what was my favorite part of sai. At 12, we headed to lunch at another local eatery and met up with brandy...another alum who is living in town! Again, it was another trip down memory lane of all the parties and get togethers. She filled us in on gossip of some people that we had lost touch with. We were there till almost 3:00. After lunch, Marcy, Brandy and i went for a pedicure. HEAVEN! Afterwards, I headed back to campus to buy a sweatshirt and the scrapbook kit (yes, I am sick in head) and took pictures of the awesome fall foliage! When i left campus, I was a little sad. The weekend went by so quickly, and all weekend, all that was running through my mind was the wonderful memories and the wonderful LASTING friendships i made while I was there!
Sunday, we got up and headed to breakfast at IHOP...from there, we all went our seperate ways and headed for home! It was great to catch up with everyone again and we made promises to not wait another 10 years before seeing each other again! Especially since we're all living in the same area practically!
I think I broke my tail feather...
Ok, crazy title I know, but I can't get the darn "Shake a Tail Feather" song OUT OF MY HEAD!! Especially when I have the adorable voice of my three year old nephew singing it! LOL
Today was a babysitting day for the nephews while Mommy and Daddy went to the NU football game. I also got to take the boys a kid's concert series that is hosted by Northwestern bands...today it was "Boom, Bam, Tap and Swoosh" We got to see an awesome group "Be the Groove" After the concert, we took a nice walk along Lake Michigan...it was such a beautiful day and I'm the silly one who forgot my camera! :)
The oldest nephew is going to be 7 in just a few weeks. Holy sh*T...7?!?! When the heck did that happen? He's all into the transformers, which excites uncle bill. At the request of mom and dad, we're going to hold off on buying him the new movie...but we plan on decking him out with transformer's "gear"...although we're teasing him that he's going to get "transformer barbies".
All in all, a fun day!
Today was a babysitting day for the nephews while Mommy and Daddy went to the NU football game. I also got to take the boys a kid's concert series that is hosted by Northwestern bands...today it was "Boom, Bam, Tap and Swoosh" We got to see an awesome group "Be the Groove" After the concert, we took a nice walk along Lake Michigan...it was such a beautiful day and I'm the silly one who forgot my camera! :)
The oldest nephew is going to be 7 in just a few weeks. Holy sh*T...7?!?! When the heck did that happen? He's all into the transformers, which excites uncle bill. At the request of mom and dad, we're going to hold off on buying him the new movie...but we plan on decking him out with transformer's "gear"...although we're teasing him that he's going to get "transformer barbies".
All in all, a fun day!
Friday, November 02, 2007
Does this work?
I keep forgetting that you can send what you want posted on your blog via email. How cool is that?
But did you receive it??
Thursday, November 01, 2007
By the Mighty Mississippi...
By the Mighty Mississippi, on a rocky shore!
Stands the School we love so dearly now and evermore.
Augustana, Augustana, We thy children as of old,
Sing thy praise in song unending to ole Augie's blue and gold.
Though the future years may part us,
still together now.
Faith and love to Augustana
Evermore we love!
Augustana, Augustana, We thy children as of old,
Sing thy praise in song unending to ole Augie's blue and gold.
I had an opportunity to head back to my alma mater for Homecoming this past weekend. Having not been back to campus since 2000, I was excited to go! My friend Marcy was having her 10 year reunion along with a few of our other friends as well. As soon as I got to campus, it was like I never left. The campus quad was full of vibrant color as the leaves had JUST started to turn. I was just mesmorized by the beautiful views!
Once I got there on Friday, I headed over to the technology building to meet up with my friend Kevin. I quickly realized how much I WAS OUT OF SHAPE!! LOL We talked and hung out for awhile and then made our way over to the College Center where I met up with Marcy. Marcy and I quickly felt our age...we didn't have cell phones when we were in college! And laptops...are you crazy? Afterwards, she and I headed out to hotel to check in and drop off our luggage. We went out for Chinese to our favorite hangout not too far from campus. Yea, it was still good :) Then we headed down to the district (downtown Rock Island) for the gathering at the "Blue Cat"...a local bar and grill. Marcy was buying me drinks for my birthday and I was well...drinking! Started off with a fuzzy navel and then had my FAVORITE drink...it was called "somebody's crazy momma with a banana up her butt"...honest to goodness. It has bailey's, kahlua, banana, and cream...kinda like a starbucks drink with alcohol...VERY VERY YUMMY!! :) Soon, we met up with Pat, Carrie, Jon and Elisa and began remembering all of the crazy stuff that we did while we were there. The nights of moonlight bowling with a trip to denny's afterward. The ZOO (zeta omega omega) boys and their midnight runs (sans clothes)...I never saw any of that. . We ended up staying there till almost midnight...but geez...we're old now! :) The formals and the parties that we went too. Going to formals and using the bathtub as your liquor cooler...which is all good until the labels peel off and you don't remember what's what....OOOOOOOPS!!! :)
More to come tomorrow...I need sleep!!!
Monday, October 15, 2007
My Next Thirty Years....
Given the fact that today is my thirtieth birthday...I found this song to be MOST appropriate!
I think Ill take a moment, celebrate my age
The ending of an era and the turning of a page
Now its time to focus in on where I go from here
Lord have mercy on my next thirty years
Hey my next thirty years Im gonna have some fun
Try to forget about all the crazy things Ive done
Maybe now Ive conquered all my adolescent fears
And Ill do it better in my next thirty years
My next thirty years Im gonna settle all the scores
Cry a little less, laugh a little more
Find a world of happiness without the hate and fear
Figure out just what Im doing here
In my next thirty years
Oh my next thirty years, Im gonna watch my weight
Eat a few more salads and not stay up so late
Drink a little lemonade and not so many beers
Maybe Ill remember my next thirty years
My next thirty years will be the best years of my life
Raise a little family and hang out with my wife
Spend precious moments with the ones that I hold dear
Make up for lost time here, in my next thirty years
In my next thirty years
I think Ill take a moment, celebrate my age
The ending of an era and the turning of a page
Now its time to focus in on where I go from here
Lord have mercy on my next thirty years
Hey my next thirty years Im gonna have some fun
Try to forget about all the crazy things Ive done
Maybe now Ive conquered all my adolescent fears
And Ill do it better in my next thirty years
My next thirty years Im gonna settle all the scores
Cry a little less, laugh a little more
Find a world of happiness without the hate and fear
Figure out just what Im doing here
In my next thirty years
Oh my next thirty years, Im gonna watch my weight
Eat a few more salads and not stay up so late
Drink a little lemonade and not so many beers
Maybe Ill remember my next thirty years
My next thirty years will be the best years of my life
Raise a little family and hang out with my wife
Spend precious moments with the ones that I hold dear
Make up for lost time here, in my next thirty years
In my next thirty years
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Something to make y'all think & smile.
The best kind of friend is the kind you can sit on a porch and swing with, never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you've ever had.
It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it, but it's also true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives.
Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they'll love you back! Don't expect love in return; just wait for it to grow in their heart but if it doesn't, be content it grew in yours.
Don't go for looks; they can decive. Don't go for wealth; even that fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright.
May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, enough hope to make you happy.
Always put yourself in others' shoes. If you feel that it hurts you, it probably hurts the other person too.
The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.
Happiness lies for those who cry, those who hurt, those who have searched, and those who have tried, for only they can appreciate the importance of people who have touched their lives.
When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so that when you die, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying!
It's true that we don't know what we've got until we lose it, but it's also true that we don't know what we've been missing until it arrives.
Giving someone all your love is never an assurance that they'll love you back! Don't expect love in return; just wait for it to grow in their heart but if it doesn't, be content it grew in yours.
Don't go for looks; they can decive. Don't go for wealth; even that fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright.
May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, enough hope to make you happy.
Always put yourself in others' shoes. If you feel that it hurts you, it probably hurts the other person too.
The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.
Happiness lies for those who cry, those who hurt, those who have searched, and those who have tried, for only they can appreciate the importance of people who have touched their lives.
When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so that when you die, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying!
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Remember me?
Ok, Ok, so it's been awhile...since I've last posted...
January
January
- Celebrated Gma & Gpa's 65th Wedding Anniversary - WOWSER. It was a very nice simple affair. Dinner with the family Saturday night and church service and reception on Sunday. Their minister did a mini vow-renewal thing. Way cool!
- A few days before their big celebration, Gpa was officially diagnosed w/Dementia. We had suspected it for awhile, but you try telling an 85 year old that. Ha ha. All of us are doing well and it's nice knowing what's wrong with him, even though you know the end result isn't that great. IMO, he's led a terrific life, so while I will be sad when he is no longer here, I will have joy knowing that I was able to spend 30 years with him!
February
- Interviewed an awesome candidate for our Director of Music ministries position! She is originally from IL and is coming home! We had a phone interview and wanted to hire her right then and there. She shares our views as a church, has some different views of our own that will challenge our congregation. We met her at the end of the month and she was just as awesome in person as she was on the phone!
- Prepared to say goodbye to current Director of Music Ministries. God had a plan for him down in Orlando. His partner was given an awesome job @ Disney and as much as he wanted to try and commute from IL to FL, it just wasn't in the cards. We will miss him dearly, but we know it was the best decision for him!
March
- Became Sunday School Coordinator! Yes, i do have sucker written on my forehead! The program is small (but mighty) and I'm hoping that we can work to make it grow and pretty soon we'll be busting @ the seams! :-)
- Promotion Baby!! After being w/my company for almost 2 years, received a promotion to Senior CSR. More responsibilties, more headaches, and the best part...more money! I'm very excited about, really feel that I can continue to grow within this position and help others (co workers and customers alike) just as I was helped/taught.
April
- Celebrated a wonderful Easter with family and friends! The church service was amazing, filled with music and joy in the resurrection! You could really feel everyone's excitement! Had a wonderful dinner with parents, sister and her family, sister's inlaws, grandparents and nephews! Incorporated part of Greek Orthodox Easter as it was on the same day. Dh's family is Greek Orthodox and while he doesn't practice it, it was a nice way to remember his family. Had lamb, avgolemo (egg lemon soup) and baklava along with our other favorites!
- Surprised Mom @school for her 60th birthday! Showed up with flowers and a balloon, along with treats for her and the teachers! She enjoyed the surprise and really made her day.
- Surprised Mom AND Dad with double 60th birthday celebration! All of the family came to church, surprised them with a double birthday cake during coffee/fellowship hour and my sister and I had dinner back at their house. gma, gpa, and mom's sister came up along with a surprise visit from mom's brother. he lives in the same apartment complex that bill and I used to be in. normally, he goes back home on the weekends, but he was in town for the weekend. Gma told him to be there and indeed he was! That was a surprise to all of us!
- Made the decision to stay in our apartment for another year. Housing market/mortgage market isn't that great, so take this next year to our selves on track (we're doing better, just need to stay there) and try again next year.
Looking forward to next few months! BIL's birthday, cousins birthday, god-daughter's 1st birthday, nephew's 3rd birthday, a few new babies (not ours unfortunately), graduation parties, and cousin's wedding at the end of july!
Whew...i think that does it for now!
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
I heart Easy mac
I have fallen in love with Easy Mac that come in the little containers. You just fill the water up to the line and pop it in the microwave and in 3 and a half minutes...dinner is served.
My question is, where was this shit when I was in college? LOL
My question is, where was this shit when I was in college? LOL
Thursday, December 28, 2006
How my blog address came to be...
I love the show Gilmore Girls...here is how I came up with the address for my blog....
Lorelai: Huh. You know what I just realized? Oy is the funniest word in the entire world.
Rory: Huh.
Lorelai: I mean, think about it. You never hear the word oy and not smile. Impossible. Funny, funny word.
Emily: Oh, dear God.
Lorelai: Poodle is another funny word.
Emily: Please drink your drink, Lorelai.
Lorelai: In fact, if you put oy and poodle together in the same sentence, you'd have a great new catch phrase, you know? Like, oy with the poodles already. So from now on, when the perfect circumstances arise, we will use our favorite new catch phrase.
Rory: Oy with the poodles already.
Lorelai: I'm telling you, it's knocking ‘whatcha talking ‘bout, Willis?' right out of first place.
Emily: Lorelai, for God's sake, be quiet.
Lorelai: Huh. You know what I just realized? Oy is the funniest word in the entire world.
Rory: Huh.
Lorelai: I mean, think about it. You never hear the word oy and not smile. Impossible. Funny, funny word.
Emily: Oh, dear God.
Lorelai: Poodle is another funny word.
Emily: Please drink your drink, Lorelai.
Lorelai: In fact, if you put oy and poodle together in the same sentence, you'd have a great new catch phrase, you know? Like, oy with the poodles already. So from now on, when the perfect circumstances arise, we will use our favorite new catch phrase.
Rory: Oy with the poodles already.
Lorelai: I'm telling you, it's knocking ‘whatcha talking ‘bout, Willis?' right out of first place.
Emily: Lorelai, for God's sake, be quiet.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Bragging rights
Well, it's official...I have bragging rights for ANOTHER year!! :) Why, you ask? Because the Northwestern Wildcats have once again beat the Fighting Illini (University of Illinois). Yes, I may have been born in the land of orange and blue, but on this game day, my heart bleeds purple for Northwestern! And my hubby is a U of I fan....muu ha ha!!!
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Thursday Thirteen
Thirteen TV Shows I Like to Watch:
1. Extreme Makeover Home Edition
2. 7th Heaven
3. ER
4. Gilmore Girls
5. CSI (any of them)
6. Grey's Anatomy
7. Dawson's Creek (gotta LOVE syndication)
8. The View
9. Brothers and Sisters
10. Iron Chef America (love Cat Cora)
11.Friends
12. Numbers
13. Will & Grace
1. Extreme Makeover Home Edition
2. 7th Heaven
3. ER
4. Gilmore Girls
5. CSI (any of them)
6. Grey's Anatomy
7. Dawson's Creek (gotta LOVE syndication)
8. The View
9. Brothers and Sisters
10. Iron Chef America (love Cat Cora)
11.Friends
12. Numbers
13. Will & Grace
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning?
I'm sure this song or even this question has gone through everyone's mind sometime today.I felt myself reflecting on the past 5 years this morning. This day for me and "our generation" is our grandparents experiencing Pearl Harbor and our parents experiencing Kennedy's assination.
I remember hearing about the first plane hitting Tower 1 and the inital thoughts that were expressed by the radio personalities. At that time, we thought it was a small plane and the comment was made "Hello, did they NOT see it?" By the time that I arrived at work (school), we had learned that the second plane had hit. By the time that the kids arrived, they knew more than us and they were telling what they saw on the news. It was a hard day for teachers, because we had to put on our "brave faces" for the students even though we were just as scared as they were.
I saw and heard alot of mixed emotions about today. Some people thought that the media over-played this and we were just reliving it again. That we should not focus on it so much. I'm sure that there were some people who also felt that we could do more.
I ended up going to church tonight where we had a nice simple service to remember that horrible day as well as pray for our future. It was a small group of people, but it was nice nonetheless. I prayed for the firefighters, police officers and for everyone who perished in this horrible day. I prayed for the safety of our troops in hopes that they will all make it home safely and SOON! I hope that those who were most affected by 9/11 were able to get through the day today and that they had family and friends around them to support them.
I remember hearing about the first plane hitting Tower 1 and the inital thoughts that were expressed by the radio personalities. At that time, we thought it was a small plane and the comment was made "Hello, did they NOT see it?" By the time that I arrived at work (school), we had learned that the second plane had hit. By the time that the kids arrived, they knew more than us and they were telling what they saw on the news. It was a hard day for teachers, because we had to put on our "brave faces" for the students even though we were just as scared as they were.
I saw and heard alot of mixed emotions about today. Some people thought that the media over-played this and we were just reliving it again. That we should not focus on it so much. I'm sure that there were some people who also felt that we could do more.
I ended up going to church tonight where we had a nice simple service to remember that horrible day as well as pray for our future. It was a small group of people, but it was nice nonetheless. I prayed for the firefighters, police officers and for everyone who perished in this horrible day. I prayed for the safety of our troops in hopes that they will all make it home safely and SOON! I hope that those who were most affected by 9/11 were able to get through the day today and that they had family and friends around them to support them.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Monday, July 10, 2006
So I jumped on the bandwagon...
Of digital scrapping...I've come across some of my friends who have tried it...so I was procrastinating last night...and decided to give it a whirl with Microsoft Digital Editor!
Geoff and Brandi
What do y'all think??
Geoff and Brandi
What do y'all think??
Friday, June 16, 2006
Dateline with Britney Spears
Ok, so I watched the Dateline interview with Brittney Spears last night (hiding head in shame). Call me a sucker, but I feel bad for Brittney Spears. Everyone keeps saying that she’s a bad mom because of driving away with the baby in her lap…the baby falling out of the high chair and a few other assorted problems. I’m not excusing her or saying she was right, but I don’t think it’s right just to point out one person’s parenting flaws…especially when it seems like the paparazzi are “stalking” her. I’ve counted several times in which I see parents driving around with their kids either in the front seat of the car, in their laps…or they aren’t safely buckled in…where are the cameras on those idiots?
Ugh…I hate paparazzi…you would have thought they learned their lesson after the death of Princess Di, but I guess that didn’t happen.
Ugh…I hate paparazzi…you would have thought they learned their lesson after the death of Princess Di, but I guess that didn’t happen.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Goodbye Sweet Child...Kayla Marie
So Bill's young cousin died the other night. Actually second cousin, but that really doesn't matter. What matters is that she was only 16 years old. Too young to die, so suddenly and so....god damn young. I can't even begin to comprehend what her parents and siblings are going through. They're good people, definately don't deserve this. That poor baby, she died before she had the chance to live. I hold those I love a little closer now, as we all do when death comes near. I keep thinking that even though she was taken so young, I know that there are her aunt and her great-grandmother will watch over her and they will take care of her up in heaven.
I also keep thinking about my own cousin...her name is also Kayla and she is only months younger...I hope and pray that she will stay safe and that no harm will come to her ever.
I also keep thinking about my own cousin...her name is also Kayla and she is only months younger...I hope and pray that she will stay safe and that no harm will come to her ever.
Friday, June 09, 2006
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Time to pack it up!!!
Last week, we started the paperwork for a new apartment back in our HOMETOWN...woohoo. Yup, that's right...we're moving back to Schaumburg. As my sister-in-law said, back to civilization! Ha ha. Once we move, I'm only going to be about 7 miles from work as opposed to the 32 miles I am now. No more I-88 in the mornings! Once our company moves in January, the commute will be even less! Defintely can't beat that!
To make the move just that much sweeter, dh was offered a job up that direction as well. he'll be working for the new hotel/convention center...yippee!
Some people aren't happy with our decision and to that I say, tough shit. I've commuted from the Naperville area up to the northwest suburbs for almost 4 years and I'm sick of it. Just because it wasn't something you planned, doesn't make it wrong!
Not to mention, we'll be closer to a lot of our friends and family. I can be more help to Gma, since she is moving out to Friendship Village.
Ok, I'm done for now.
To make the move just that much sweeter, dh was offered a job up that direction as well. he'll be working for the new hotel/convention center...yippee!
Some people aren't happy with our decision and to that I say, tough shit. I've commuted from the Naperville area up to the northwest suburbs for almost 4 years and I'm sick of it. Just because it wasn't something you planned, doesn't make it wrong!
Not to mention, we'll be closer to a lot of our friends and family. I can be more help to Gma, since she is moving out to Friendship Village.
Ok, I'm done for now.
Friday, May 19, 2006
Evolution of Dance...
This is hysterical...all of your favorite songs to dance to in 6 minutes....makes me want to get up and dance!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMH0bHeiRNg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMH0bHeiRNg
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
digi top ten...
Top Ten List of Songs that has special meaning to it for you
1. I don’t want to Miss a Thing – Aerosmith – We saw this movie on our first date and this was the song that we first danced to as husband and wife…aww J
2. Live like you were Dying – Tim McGraw – This song took on a lot of meaning after I had my surgery to remove my thyroid and it taught me to do just that.
3. If I had a Million Dollars – Barenaked Ladies – By far, one of the best BNL songs EVER! Reminds me of my college days, hanging out with Marcy and friends and having a good time overall! Haven’t you always wanted a monkey? JJ
4. Son of a Preacher Man – Another flashback to the college life…this was one my roomies favorite songs and this was the perfect song to “start” getting drunk to! J
5. In My Daughter’s Eyes – Martina McBride – This song reminds me of the great relationship that I have with my mom and all of the mothers & daughters in my family. I hope that one day, I have a daughter, because I know I will be singing it to her!
6. Redneck Woman – Gretchen Wilson – This song reminds me a lot about myself…I can be a girly girl, but I’m not afraid to be a little redneck either!
7. Vogue – Madonna – This reminds me of my high school days, when life was so much simpler…all you had to do was strike a pose!! J
8. Jesus Take the Wheel – Carrie Underwood – This song reminds me that I need to focus my life more towards my faith and whatever happens, happens.
9. Friends in Low Places – Garth Brooks – Another great dancing, party song…reminds of the good ole days!
10. Where were you when the World stopped Turning – Alan Jackson – Very powerful reminder of September 11th…makes me reflect that day over and over again in my mind.
Friday, May 12, 2006
I usually don't do this...
Get into much "religious" debate or throw my faith until other peoples faces...but there's always an exception to every rule! If you would like to learn more about all of this....visit Still Speaking.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
It's been too long...
Since I've updated and for all of my fans out there, I apologize! :-)
Things are going pretty ok for us...I think that we are actually starting to make some headway after dealing with all of the unemployment and health issues that have plagued us for so long. B started back to work last month working for a security company. The job isn't great, but for the time being it's a job, and it does pay more than unemployment did. We don't get to see much of each other because he works second shift, but we are making it work. The nights that I don't have to go to bed early I stay up until he gets home and then we end up chatting for awhile and I do my best not to make any plans until after 3:00 on the weekends so we can spend as much time as we can together.
My job is going good...it's a busy time of year because all of the schools are testing their students, but it defintely is job security! :-) I've been with the company for over a year now...yea!!
I really have nothing exciting to say...sorry to disappoint...LOL
Jenn
Things are going pretty ok for us...I think that we are actually starting to make some headway after dealing with all of the unemployment and health issues that have plagued us for so long. B started back to work last month working for a security company. The job isn't great, but for the time being it's a job, and it does pay more than unemployment did. We don't get to see much of each other because he works second shift, but we are making it work. The nights that I don't have to go to bed early I stay up until he gets home and then we end up chatting for awhile and I do my best not to make any plans until after 3:00 on the weekends so we can spend as much time as we can together.
My job is going good...it's a busy time of year because all of the schools are testing their students, but it defintely is job security! :-) I've been with the company for over a year now...yea!!
I really have nothing exciting to say...sorry to disappoint...LOL
Jenn
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
1995
1995
Your senior year in high school is supposed to be the best year of your life. Let's see how much you remember:
Year: 1995
1. Who was your best friend? Hmmm…probably Karen
2. What sports did you play? None
3. What kind of car did you drive? My parent’s cars…lol…88 Plymouth Voyager and 77 Pontiac Bonneville (AKA…TANK)
4. It's Friday night, where were you at? With my boyfriend
5. Were you a party animal? No
6. Were you in the "In Crowd"? No
7. Ever skip school? Uh no
8. Ever smoke a cigarette? Another no
9. Were you a nerd? Probably Yah
10. Did you get suspened/expelled? No
11. Can you sing the Alma Mater? Fight on all you saxons…lead us on to victory tonight…raise your voice to the highest..for the red for the gold we will fight. Crap…I forgot the rest!
12. Who was your favorite teacher? There were some really cool teachers…it’s probably a toss between Mrs Meyers and Mr Williams.
13. Favorite class: Probably Band
14. What was your school's full name? Schaumburg High School…on Schaumburg Rd…in Schaumburg,IL….talk about original!
15. School mascot? Saxons
16. Did you go to Prom? Yes!
17. If you could go back and do it over, would you? Hell no…too much drama for my liking!
18. What do you remember most about graduation? The weather was awesome!
19. Favorite memory of your senior year? Walking out of the doors for the last time!
20. Were you ever posted up on the senior wall? Didn't have one of those, but if we did, I wouldn't have been.
21. Did you have a job your senior year? Nope
22. Who did you date? Greg
23. Where did you go most often for lunch? the cafeteria, sometimes out for lunch.
24. Have you gained weight since then? Probably a little, but not much
25. What did you do after graduation? Went to parties and then went to college
Your senior year in high school is supposed to be the best year of your life. Let's see how much you remember:
Year: 1995
1. Who was your best friend? Hmmm…probably Karen
2. What sports did you play? None
3. What kind of car did you drive? My parent’s cars…lol…88 Plymouth Voyager and 77 Pontiac Bonneville (AKA…TANK)
4. It's Friday night, where were you at? With my boyfriend
5. Were you a party animal? No
6. Were you in the "In Crowd"? No
7. Ever skip school? Uh no
8. Ever smoke a cigarette? Another no
9. Were you a nerd? Probably Yah
10. Did you get suspened/expelled? No
11. Can you sing the Alma Mater? Fight on all you saxons…lead us on to victory tonight…raise your voice to the highest..for the red for the gold we will fight. Crap…I forgot the rest!
12. Who was your favorite teacher? There were some really cool teachers…it’s probably a toss between Mrs Meyers and Mr Williams.
13. Favorite class: Probably Band
14. What was your school's full name? Schaumburg High School…on Schaumburg Rd…in Schaumburg,IL….talk about original!
15. School mascot? Saxons
16. Did you go to Prom? Yes!
17. If you could go back and do it over, would you? Hell no…too much drama for my liking!
18. What do you remember most about graduation? The weather was awesome!
19. Favorite memory of your senior year? Walking out of the doors for the last time!
20. Were you ever posted up on the senior wall? Didn't have one of those, but if we did, I wouldn't have been.
21. Did you have a job your senior year? Nope
22. Who did you date? Greg
23. Where did you go most often for lunch? the cafeteria, sometimes out for lunch.
24. Have you gained weight since then? Probably a little, but not much
25. What did you do after graduation? Went to parties and then went to college
Monday, February 27, 2006
Who would like to buy me tickets??
To see this hottie? please please please? i'll even share him with his wife! lol
he's an awesome singer and he's a hottie. my husband already knows that if tim were to come to the door and ask me to run away with him...i would so be running! :)
Monday, February 13, 2006
When I Get Where I'm Going...
This is another awesome song. I heard this song the night before Aunt Mary passed away and I immediately thought of her. If y'all believe in signs, it seemed like a song she enjoyed. They played it Saturday at the burial service...not a dry eye in the house!
by Brad Paisley & Dolly Parton
When I get where I'm going
On the far side of the sky
The first thing that I'm gonna do
Is spread my wings and fly
I'm gonna land beside a lion
And run my fingers through his mane
Or I might find out what it's like
To ride a drop of rain
[Chorus]
Yeah when I get where I'm going
There'll be only happy tears
I will shed the sins and struggles
I have carried all these years
And I'll leave my heart wide open
I will love and have no fear
Yeah when I get where I'm going
Don't cry for me down here
I'm gonna walk with my grand daddy
And he'll match me step for step
And I'll tell him how I missed him
Every minute since he left
Then I'll hug his neck
So much pain and so much darkness
In this world we stumble through
All these questions I can't answer
So much work to do
But when I get where I'm going
And I see my maker's face
I'll stand forever in the light
Of his amazing grace
Yeah when I get where I'm going
There'll be only happy tears
Hallelujah
I will love and have no fear
When I get where I'm going
Yeah when I get where I'm going
by Brad Paisley & Dolly Parton
When I get where I'm going
On the far side of the sky
The first thing that I'm gonna do
Is spread my wings and fly
I'm gonna land beside a lion
And run my fingers through his mane
Or I might find out what it's like
To ride a drop of rain
[Chorus]
Yeah when I get where I'm going
There'll be only happy tears
I will shed the sins and struggles
I have carried all these years
And I'll leave my heart wide open
I will love and have no fear
Yeah when I get where I'm going
Don't cry for me down here
I'm gonna walk with my grand daddy
And he'll match me step for step
And I'll tell him how I missed him
Every minute since he left
Then I'll hug his neck
So much pain and so much darkness
In this world we stumble through
All these questions I can't answer
So much work to do
But when I get where I'm going
And I see my maker's face
I'll stand forever in the light
Of his amazing grace
Yeah when I get where I'm going
There'll be only happy tears
Hallelujah
I will love and have no fear
When I get where I'm going
Yeah when I get where I'm going
In Memory of Aunt Mary
Last Sunday, a very beautiful and strong woman, left this earth and was called back home to be with God. For some people reading this, it might make you feel uncomfortable, but these are my beliefs. As much as she will be missed, I know that she is in a better place. She is no longer sick and she will take care of all of us for many years to come. I didn't really know her as much as my husband did, but I know that she was an awesome woman. She proved that to me after my surgery in August of 2004. Even though she was dealing with her own illness, she made a point to call me in the hospital and let me know that she was thinking of me and praying for me. She was willing to listen if I needed to talk about what was going to happen to me, and she knew that I was scared. The phone call didn't last but for more than a few minutes, but it meant the world to me.
For those who know me, you know that music is one of my passions...this song was played at her service and it really fits...plus it's by Faith Hill...one of my music heroes. I found out later that Faith wrote this song for her mother...very appropriate since Aunt Mary has 2 beautiful girls.
When I think back on these times
And the dreams we left behind
I’ll be glad because I was blessed to get
To have you in my life
When I look back on these days
I’ll look and see your face
You were right there for me
In my dreams I’ll always see you soar above the sky
In my heart there'll always be a place for you for all my life
I’ll keep a part of you with me
And everywhere I am there you’ll be
And everywhere I am there you'll be
Well you showed me how it feels
To feel the sky within my reach
And I always will remember all
The strength you gave to me
Your love made me make it through
Oh I owe so much to you
You were right there for me
In my dreams I’ll always see you soar above the sky
In my heart there'll always be a place for you for all my life
I’ll keep a part of you with me
And everywhere I am there you’ll be
Cuz I always saw in you my light my strength
And I want to thank you now for all the ways
You were right there for me
(You were right there for me)
You were right there for me
For always
In my dreams I’ll always see you soar above the sky
In my heart there'll always be a place for you for all my life
I’ll keep a part of you with me
And everywhere I am there you’ll be
And everywhere I am there you'll be
There you'll be
For those who know me, you know that music is one of my passions...this song was played at her service and it really fits...plus it's by Faith Hill...one of my music heroes. I found out later that Faith wrote this song for her mother...very appropriate since Aunt Mary has 2 beautiful girls.
When I think back on these times
And the dreams we left behind
I’ll be glad because I was blessed to get
To have you in my life
When I look back on these days
I’ll look and see your face
You were right there for me
In my dreams I’ll always see you soar above the sky
In my heart there'll always be a place for you for all my life
I’ll keep a part of you with me
And everywhere I am there you’ll be
And everywhere I am there you'll be
Well you showed me how it feels
To feel the sky within my reach
And I always will remember all
The strength you gave to me
Your love made me make it through
Oh I owe so much to you
You were right there for me
In my dreams I’ll always see you soar above the sky
In my heart there'll always be a place for you for all my life
I’ll keep a part of you with me
And everywhere I am there you’ll be
Cuz I always saw in you my light my strength
And I want to thank you now for all the ways
You were right there for me
(You were right there for me)
You were right there for me
For always
In my dreams I’ll always see you soar above the sky
In my heart there'll always be a place for you for all my life
I’ll keep a part of you with me
And everywhere I am there you’ll be
And everywhere I am there you'll be
There you'll be
Monday, January 30, 2006
Sometimes Life Isn't Fair
It's not fair that I still have 3 out of my 4 grandparents who are still alive and for the most part healthy...and my husband has no grandparents.
It's not fair that some people try for several years to have a child, but then there are those who get pregnant if someone looks at them the right way. I found out this morning that one of my friends from high school is about halfway through her pregnancy. I'm hurt on a few levels...they were wanting to wait until she was done with grad school which was right around Christmas time (last month)...well, turns out it happened in September. She is due in June, right around the time of another friend...who was planning to wait 5 years before having kids. She and her husband are going to have their 1st child before celebrating their first anniversary. Again, totally not planned.
Here I sit...having not been on birth control for almost a year...and nothing. Ugh, it just gets to me sometimes. I promised myself I wouldn't obbess over this, but today it just reared it's ugly head. Everyday I wonder if I will be able to have kids because of the thryoid cancer from last year. I had to have the radioacitve idoine to make sure it didn't spread beyond the thyroid...but did that screw me up? I'm sure the fact that I don't have my thyroid anymore is also making it difficult. But as rational i try to be, it still hurts. I keep praying that our lives will work out for us this year!
I also ask that you keep bill's family in your thoughts and prayers...his aunt/godmother isn't doing well and her time is very limited. please pray that she doesn't have to suffer too much longer and that the family can get through all of this.
It's not fair that some people try for several years to have a child, but then there are those who get pregnant if someone looks at them the right way. I found out this morning that one of my friends from high school is about halfway through her pregnancy. I'm hurt on a few levels...they were wanting to wait until she was done with grad school which was right around Christmas time (last month)...well, turns out it happened in September. She is due in June, right around the time of another friend...who was planning to wait 5 years before having kids. She and her husband are going to have their 1st child before celebrating their first anniversary. Again, totally not planned.
Here I sit...having not been on birth control for almost a year...and nothing. Ugh, it just gets to me sometimes. I promised myself I wouldn't obbess over this, but today it just reared it's ugly head. Everyday I wonder if I will be able to have kids because of the thryoid cancer from last year. I had to have the radioacitve idoine to make sure it didn't spread beyond the thyroid...but did that screw me up? I'm sure the fact that I don't have my thyroid anymore is also making it difficult. But as rational i try to be, it still hurts. I keep praying that our lives will work out for us this year!
I also ask that you keep bill's family in your thoughts and prayers...his aunt/godmother isn't doing well and her time is very limited. please pray that she doesn't have to suffer too much longer and that the family can get through all of this.
Monday, January 16, 2006
Martin Luther King Day
Because of a wonderful man who dreamed a great dream, I don't have work today. I have to say...my job may be stressful but there are alot of benefits that can't be denied...thanks to being off today, I haven't worked a Monday in about 4 weeks! lol Off the day after Christmas, the day after New Years (legal holidays) and then I was home sick last week.
Plans for today??? Haircut...doctor's appt (oncology appt...always a little nervous)...scrapbooking, watching the golden globe awards tonight and just enjoying the day! ;-)
the bears lost last night and that sucked, but the STEELERS won!! Woohoo!! I'm kinda bummed about the bears, but a little relief that those two teams aren't playing in the Superbowl together...that could have been a divorce as we know it! I'm a bears fan since birth...but I've become a steelers fan by marriage!
that's about it from here... :)
Plans for today??? Haircut...doctor's appt (oncology appt...always a little nervous)...scrapbooking, watching the golden globe awards tonight and just enjoying the day! ;-)
the bears lost last night and that sucked, but the STEELERS won!! Woohoo!! I'm kinda bummed about the bears, but a little relief that those two teams aren't playing in the Superbowl together...that could have been a divorce as we know it! I'm a bears fan since birth...but I've become a steelers fan by marriage!
that's about it from here... :)
Monday, January 09, 2006
1977
In 1977 (the year you were born) |
Jimmy Carter becomes president of the US Most of the 10,000 Vietnam War draft evaders are pardoned by President Carter Singer Anita Bryant starts her "Save Our Children" crusade against gay rights Elvis Presley dies in his Graceland bathroom Congress creates a Department of Energy Anwar Sadat flies to Jerusalem in a dramatic gesture of willingness to discuss peace Orlando Bloom, Shakira, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Liv Tyler, and Ludacris are born New York Yankees win the World Series Oakland Raiders win Superbowl XI Montreal Canadiens win the Stanley Cup Swedish music group ABBA passes The Beatles as having most records sold Star Wars is the top grossing film The Shining by Stephen King is published "You Light Up My Life" by Debby Boone spends the most time at the top of the US charts Three's Company premieres |
Sunday, January 01, 2006
2005: A Year in Review
JANUARY
1. Did you have a new year's resolution this year? To become a mom...still working on that one... here's to 2006!
2. Who kissed you at midnight? My husband and then I think we were both asleep by 12:05...lol.
3. Did it snow where you live? Yea, it did...welcome to winter in the midwest!
4. Have you ever been to Times Square to watch the ball drop? No, but that is one thing I would love to experience once in my life!
FEBRUARY
1. Who was your valentine? Bill
2. What did your valentine get you? LOL I can't remember...probably scrapbook stuff!
3. When you were little, did you buy valentines for your whole class? Yes!!
MARCH
1. Are you Irish? Nope
2. Did you wear green on St. Patty's Day? don't think so
3. What did you do for St. Patty's Day? Nothing much
APRIL
1. Do you like the rain? No, it tends to bring me down!
2. Did you play an April Fool's joke on anyone this year? No
3. Did you get tons of candy on Easter? No just what candy mom had! lol
MAY
1. What's your favorite kind of flower? Any that are given to me! (nice idea Sarah)
2. Do you like the spring? Yes!!
3. Finish the phrase: "April showers bring...": mayflowers..and mayflowers bring...Prom!! (old joke from my sister's friend)
4. What would you think of as a spring color?: all the pastel colors!
JUNE
1. What year did you graduate from school?: Class of '95...I'm old!
2. Did you go on any vacations last June?: No
JULY
1. What did you do on the 4th of July? Went down to Peoria and spent it with family.
2. Did you go on any vacations during this month?: If you count Peoria as a vacation...than yes!
AUGUST
1. Did you do anything special to end off your summer? Not really...enjoyed a visit with our good friends from out of town
2. What was your favorite summer memory of '05? don't really know of one
3. Did you go swimming a lot in the summer? Not alot...a few times at the inlaws pool and at our family reunion.
4. Did you go to the beach a lot? Nope
SEPTEMBER
1. Did you attend school/college in '05? No
2. Who is/was your favorite teacher? Mrs. Bethurem in junior high
3. Did you like fall better than summer? Yes, fall & spring are my favorite seasons
OCTOBER
1. What was your favorite Halloween costume ever? I can't remember.
2. What's your favorite candy? Peanut Butter cups :-)
3. What did you dress up like this year? Nothing
NOVEMBER
1. Whose house did you go to for Thanksgiving? My inlaws
2. Do you like stuffing? Yes!!!! One of my favorites!
3. What are you thankful for? My family and friends
DECEMBER
1. Do you celebrate Christmas? You bet!!!
2. Have you ever been kissed under mistletoe? Of course!! ;-)
3. What did you want this year for Christmas? Living Room furniture...didn't get.
4. What's the best present you ever got for Christmas? My new photo printer this year!
5. Do you like cold weather? Not *TOO* cold...the below zero temps...NO!
6. How would you rate your year on a scale of 1-10? 5 - It's been a rough year with losing a job and a sick husband as well as some extended family problems so I'm hoping for an easier year! i'm soooooooooooooo ready to close the doors on 2005!
1. Did you have a new year's resolution this year? To become a mom...still working on that one... here's to 2006!
2. Who kissed you at midnight? My husband and then I think we were both asleep by 12:05...lol.
3. Did it snow where you live? Yea, it did...welcome to winter in the midwest!
4. Have you ever been to Times Square to watch the ball drop? No, but that is one thing I would love to experience once in my life!
FEBRUARY
1. Who was your valentine? Bill
2. What did your valentine get you? LOL I can't remember...probably scrapbook stuff!
3. When you were little, did you buy valentines for your whole class? Yes!!
MARCH
1. Are you Irish? Nope
2. Did you wear green on St. Patty's Day? don't think so
3. What did you do for St. Patty's Day? Nothing much
APRIL
1. Do you like the rain? No, it tends to bring me down!
2. Did you play an April Fool's joke on anyone this year? No
3. Did you get tons of candy on Easter? No just what candy mom had! lol
MAY
1. What's your favorite kind of flower? Any that are given to me! (nice idea Sarah)
2. Do you like the spring? Yes!!
3. Finish the phrase: "April showers bring...": mayflowers..and mayflowers bring...Prom!! (old joke from my sister's friend)
4. What would you think of as a spring color?: all the pastel colors!
JUNE
1. What year did you graduate from school?: Class of '95...I'm old!
2. Did you go on any vacations last June?: No
JULY
1. What did you do on the 4th of July? Went down to Peoria and spent it with family.
2. Did you go on any vacations during this month?: If you count Peoria as a vacation...than yes!
AUGUST
1. Did you do anything special to end off your summer? Not really...enjoyed a visit with our good friends from out of town
2. What was your favorite summer memory of '05? don't really know of one
3. Did you go swimming a lot in the summer? Not alot...a few times at the inlaws pool and at our family reunion.
4. Did you go to the beach a lot? Nope
SEPTEMBER
1. Did you attend school/college in '05? No
2. Who is/was your favorite teacher? Mrs. Bethurem in junior high
3. Did you like fall better than summer? Yes, fall & spring are my favorite seasons
OCTOBER
1. What was your favorite Halloween costume ever? I can't remember.
2. What's your favorite candy? Peanut Butter cups :-)
3. What did you dress up like this year? Nothing
NOVEMBER
1. Whose house did you go to for Thanksgiving? My inlaws
2. Do you like stuffing? Yes!!!! One of my favorites!
3. What are you thankful for? My family and friends
DECEMBER
1. Do you celebrate Christmas? You bet!!!
2. Have you ever been kissed under mistletoe? Of course!! ;-)
3. What did you want this year for Christmas? Living Room furniture...didn't get.
4. What's the best present you ever got for Christmas? My new photo printer this year!
5. Do you like cold weather? Not *TOO* cold...the below zero temps...NO!
6. How would you rate your year on a scale of 1-10? 5 - It's been a rough year with losing a job and a sick husband as well as some extended family problems so I'm hoping for an easier year! i'm soooooooooooooo ready to close the doors on 2005!
Saturday, December 24, 2005
Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Mr. & Mrs Smith...
In honor of the DVD release...i would share some funny quotes from the movie (all courtesy of imdb.com)
John Smith: Come to Daddy.
Jane Smith: [after she bashes him with a tablecloth-ensconced silver teapot and headbutts him] Who's your Daddy now?
John Smith: [during a car chase] I never told you, but I was married once before. Jane Smith: [slams on the brakes]
John Smith: What's wrong with you?
Jane Smith: [hitting John] You're what's wrong with me John.
John Smith: It was just a drunken Vegas thing.
Jane Smith: Oh, that's better. That's *much* better. [pause]
Jane Smith: What's her name and social security number?
John Smith: No, you're not gonna kill her.
Jane Smith: Wait, why do I get the girly gun?
John Smith: What? Are you kidding me?
Jane Smith: [after shooting through a wall at John] Still alive, baby?
John Smith: Come to Daddy.
Jane Smith: [after she bashes him with a tablecloth-ensconced silver teapot and headbutts him] Who's your Daddy now?
John Smith: [during a car chase] I never told you, but I was married once before. Jane Smith: [slams on the brakes]
John Smith: What's wrong with you?
Jane Smith: [hitting John] You're what's wrong with me John.
John Smith: It was just a drunken Vegas thing.
Jane Smith: Oh, that's better. That's *much* better. [pause]
Jane Smith: What's her name and social security number?
John Smith: No, you're not gonna kill her.
Jane Smith: Wait, why do I get the girly gun?
John Smith: What? Are you kidding me?
Jane Smith: [after shooting through a wall at John] Still alive, baby?
Monday, November 28, 2005
Show me some Augie love!!
I love this campus...somedays, I would give anything and everything to be back there! Every season, this campus looks so beautiful!
There is a special love that us Augie alums have...we know about the different party houses...the annual fraternity/sorority gatherings. We speak our own little language! And it's awesome!!!
And...we have bahls too...LOL
There is a special love that us Augie alums have...we know about the different party houses...the annual fraternity/sorority gatherings. We speak our own little language! And it's awesome!!!
And...we have bahls too...LOL
Party like it's um...1995
Well, our 10 year high school reunion was the past Friday and my question is...WHO ACTUALLY WENT? When we received our invites this year (on the day of matt's graduation...talk about feeling old)...we reverted back to our high school ways and wanted to find out if anyone we knew was going...so we didn't end up on our own. As it turns out, no one really felt like paying $160 for a flippin buffet dinner and only 2 hours of alchol!! WTF?
Don't get me wrong, I had a blast in high school...but I don't think I would EVER go back! Well, I'd go back, but only for special occasions...the disney trips with the band...those were awesome! Senior year was the time that Bill and I went off together @ MGM and people were wondering what the two of us were up to! Little did we know where we would end up only a few years later!
Oh well, i hope the 10 people that went had a great time! LOL
Don't get me wrong, I had a blast in high school...but I don't think I would EVER go back! Well, I'd go back, but only for special occasions...the disney trips with the band...those were awesome! Senior year was the time that Bill and I went off together @ MGM and people were wondering what the two of us were up to! Little did we know where we would end up only a few years later!
Oh well, i hope the 10 people that went had a great time! LOL
What I'm thankful for this year...
I've seen alot of people mention things that they are thankful for...so I guess it's my turn. It's been a very rough year, I'd so much like to close the books on 2005...it just plain sucked the whole year.
1)I'm grateful for my husband. He's a pain in the a** and I'm sure he says the same of me. But we've managed to make things work and stay together. I'm not one to give up easily. I take my marriage vows very seriously.
2)I'm grateful for my family, both immediate and extended families. They all have helped us out in same way or another and I am always grateful for that!
3)My friends...I have some truly awesome friends!!
1)I'm grateful for my husband. He's a pain in the a** and I'm sure he says the same of me. But we've managed to make things work and stay together. I'm not one to give up easily. I take my marriage vows very seriously.
2)I'm grateful for my family, both immediate and extended families. They all have helped us out in same way or another and I am always grateful for that!
3)My friends...I have some truly awesome friends!!
Let the Christmas season begin!
Ok, now Christmas can ACTUALLY begin! Of course, being the fact that it is 55 degrees...it doesn't feel that way. I've already found myself digging out the Christmas CD's and listening to the music. This has to be my favorite holiday of the year, possibly even more than my birthday. The only thing that sucks this year is that we are dirt f-in poor and so I can't go shopping crazy. Part of me is bummed about that, but the other part of me, doesn't care about the presents...I'd just rather do nice things for others. Christmas is really for the little kids...who get all excited...it's fun to watch.
Thursday, November 24, 2005
Happy Thanksgiving!
To anyone who reads this, I would like to wish you and your family a Happy Turkey Day! This is one of my favorite holidays because I love all of the yummy treats that we get to have! I have lots of family favorites and lucky for me, my husband likes the recipes as well, so I get to continue on the family traditions.
I do have one pet peeve about the holiday though...it seems to be one of the most forgotten holiday...seems like most people are looking towards Christmas. Everytime I see Christmas decorations out on the lawns and already turned makes me very upset! It should be a law to wait until the day after Thanksgiving to turn those on. LOL
I hope everyone that enjoys your day!
I do have one pet peeve about the holiday though...it seems to be one of the most forgotten holiday...seems like most people are looking towards Christmas. Everytime I see Christmas decorations out on the lawns and already turned makes me very upset! It should be a law to wait until the day after Thanksgiving to turn those on. LOL
I hope everyone that enjoys your day!
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