Be Tangedy...

Travel Time

2011-10-23T22:41:00.000-07:00

If you're wondering where I'll be during the next 9 months, read below...

December

6 days visiting one of my favorite families on the east coast

3 days scouting our PEACE trip to Costa Rica

January

3 days of Staff Camp at Thousand Pines

February

11 days traveling to and being in Kitale, Kenya

March

4 days in Louisville, Kentucky for SYMC

June

4 days in Palm Desert for Staff Retreat

July

5 days at Summer Camp

11 days in Costa Rica

So, so excited (and so thankful) for the months to come!

My Boss Made Me

2011-06-15T23:07:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I ran a cross a blog post that wouldn't let me go. So I prayed, thought, and wrote. I sent my team at the church an email about this blog post in hopes that it would challenge them too. And, of course, my boss asked me to post the email here. My hope is that it would stir something in your heart, the way it did mine.

Hey team!

While reading Doug Fields’ blog the other day one of his posts made me think and more than that, challenged me.

Please read it if you haven’t already done so. Here it is.

Here's what I felt God was stirring in me as I read and prayed about this post:

Doug’s statement: “I’m assuming you all struggle.” In most of my daily ministry interactions I assume and hope for the best. I am , after all, the person who is supposed to encourage, strengthen, and believe that God can do anything, right? I oftentimes don’t ask the hard questions or assume that a student is struggling through things but that it’s not that bad. BUT, what if I should assume students are struggling with major issues? This post is about porn, but really we are capable of struggling with ANYTHING. The other day one of the girls in my Life Group told my co-leader, “I’m so glad that our group doesn’t struggle with drinking, guys and sex…we can just come and learn about the Bible.” Really? They aren’t struggling with anything but school and stress? I don’t believe that. I am pretty sure that once I begin assuming that there is more under the surface, I will find it.

We shouldn’t be afraid to assume that our students are facing deep struggles in their lives. You’re not being negative or lacking faith. You’re acknowledging that we live in a fallen world. BUT, we do need to continually believe and have faith in the fact that Jesus came to save us from the sin that binds us. In Romans 6 Paul says we were all slaves to sin, but through Christ we have been freed from it! As we tackle this, let’s remind our students that they DO have the gift of freedom in Christ, but the first step to receiving it is acknowledging the NEED for freedom.

Thanks for loving students…love you guys.

Love.

2011-05-03T14:51:00.000-07:00

I'm a sucker for a good love story. Especially one that comes from Brooklyn.

I spent a good 20 minutes crying at the office while watching (and re-watching) this today.

Enjoy.

I Hate Dogs...

2011-05-02T22:30:00.000-07:00

But a commercial for this show reeled me in.

Watch it with me.

Mid-Year Resolutions

2011-04-27T00:07:00.000-07:00

The only New Year's resolution I set for 2011 was to workout. And I have been! Congratulations to me.

But seeing as how we are well into the new year I decided to set yet another goal for myself since the first was so easily attained (who knew I'd end up liking exercise?!).

I want to be smarter. Or just know more.

I always admire friends that say things like, "I recently read..." or "Did you know...?".

How can I be this person? What should I be reading? Listening to? Looking at?

Here's the thing, I don't want to search for information, I want it to be available to me with the least amount of effort on my part to attain it.

So maybe this is a resolution for any readers of this blog if you should chose to accept it: make me smarter.

Thank you.

No Regrets!

2011-04-26T23:51:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday at our weekly Team Meeting something incredible happened: we found out we would not only get Saturday and Sunday off but also Tuesday as an Easter holiday since our regular day off is Monday and that's when the rest of the church would be taking their Easter observance day off.

Awesome.

If you've spent any time around me during 'school-off holidays' (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring Break, etc.) you know how much I LOVE feeling the break I once did when I was a student. I love it so much that I continually kept yelling, "Spring Break 2011 - No Regrets!" around the office for the past 3 weeks.

I got 4 days off in a row. A total surprise. And a total SPRING BREAK 2011.

Here's what I did as a 27 year old on Spring Break:

-Recuperated from a Life Group sleepover on Friday night.
-Slept in every day (at least until 10am).
-Spent time with family.
-Ate lots of food.
-Celebrated Easter...my WHOLE family went to church together!
-Fought a cold.
-Watched 'Water for Elephants'.
-Drank coffee and found out I only need 3 stars to get to the Gold level on my Starbucks account.
-Watched a lot of reality TV.
-Laughed with friends.

Not bad. And so far...no regrets.

Dating Tips

2011-04-16T23:13:00.001-07:00

I had lunch with a dear friend on Monday. Great food, great location, great conversation.
As lunch progressed my friend recalled a super awkward moment she had with a guy from her grad school program. She attempted to flirt in hopes that he would see that she was interested in him...he never reciprocated. Fail. So she asked me for advice.

Here is some of the wisdom I shared from the peak of my dating days...

#1 When a guy ignores you, ignore him back.

#2 Always make yourself known.

For example, when I had a crush on the guy who eventually became my college boyfriend I always made a point of noting which door he would exit when leaving the worship center at church. I would pretend to casually walk by him as if coincidentally walking in the same direction. Just a little reminder that I was around.

#3 When you are in the same room as your crush, talk to people around you and when you notice your crush looking in your direction laugh and act as though you are having the time of your life. Guys like fun people.

#4 Make up random, yet believable reasons to be around/talk to your crush. "Forget" your book in his car, carpool to events, find a common interest and run with it (this one can take you a LONG way in sharing time with your crush).

#5 When he invites you places with others (not dates), don't always say yes. Decline politely, knowing it will make him miss you. This one has worked very effectively for me.

Disclaimer: These tips were used from 2003-2007 and may no longer be deemed useful.

DF

2011-04-15T01:18:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago my good friend, Stacey, and I were in Chicago at a great youth ministry conference having the time of our lives. As I spent time with her I got to thinking of how thankful I am for her. God has used her in really incredible ways in my life. I love Jesus more because I am Stacey's friend. She's amazing.

And so, in Stacey's honor, we coined a new, hip term: DF. It stands for Dear Friend.

I never used the word dear before meeting Stacey, but being around her more and more (and hearing her use this word to describe the people and things that are closest to her heart) made it stick. Now, I too share in these dear feelings!

If you hear me describe you as dear or refer to you as my DF, consider yourself loved. Because YOU ARE my dear friend!

*Below is a photograph where I was assumed to have been thinking that whatever was being talked about was "so dear!".

Jason Petty featuring T.I.

2010-01-06T23:46:00.000-08:00

We just began a new series in HSM (our high school ministry) called "Step by Step". The series is focused on helping our students to take the next steps in their relationship with God. To challenge them in how they view God, His Word and His plan for their lives. I really love it.

Jason Petty (our discipleship pastor) has spearheaded this series with the help of Taylor Ishii (an incredible former HSM intern and current small group leader/Fuller Seminary student). This weekend, Jason taught the primary part of the lesson while Taylor chimmed in during one of the key points.

As Taylor taught through his piece of the message God really worked in my heart. Taylor posed a question:

Are your expectations of God limiting you from knowing and experiencing the true God?

In other words, there are many times when we expect God to be a certain way. We think that we know what God wants for us (a specific job, spouse, safety, security, happiness) and when things don't play out how we think God would have them play out...we question God. All the while God is doing something in our lives and we're totally missing out on it because we are so focused on who God isn't being for us.

At times...I am like this.

This year (two-thousand ten...yes, no twenty-ten for me) I want to take the time to know and experience the true God, not the God I think He should be. I think the real one is much better anyway.

By the way, I suggested we promote "Step by Step" as being taught by Jason Petty featuring T.I. (Taylor Ishii) because I thought it'd draw a crowd...too bad I didn't mention it until the day the series kicked off.

I Just Called...

2009-10-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

A lot has changed in my life in the past four months (you can read about that here).

Part of the change has been having a brand new boss. My boss is great and fun and talkative and, no matter how long you've known him, makes you feel like his BFF. He's great...really.

This past month has been tough.

Small Groups are my piece of the ministry and last week we launched over 90 groups with over 900 students as part of those groups. There was busyness and leaders and parents and students and questions and changes all over the place! It was a bit overwhelming...to say the least.

I love that I get to do what I do and would not trade one second of the countless hours we've spent investing is our groups...even with all of the madness.

My boss did something last week (after our first night of small groups) that meant so much to me.

My boss called me...just to say that I did a good job and that he was proud of me.

(This is where the little girl in me comes out...)

I was so thankful for that.

I didn't need for him to say that...because I know that recognition is not the only way that God values what we do in His name...but my boss calling me just to say that, showed me what kind of a man he is...

a really great one.

My boss isn't just fun and awesome in front of people...he's great all the time and thinks about the little things. Little things like calling to say "Hooray! You did it!".

How He Loves

2009-07-17T00:13:00.001-07:00

Our student ministry team has spent the last week putting on (go team!) and experiencing (go the rest of us!) the PDYM Student Leadership Conference. It has been incredible and such a gift to see our students draw closer to God and become aware and surprised of God's call upon their lives. Really, really great.

Tonight, as we worshiped God through prayer, scripture, communion, giving and song I had a lot of time to reflect on what God has been dong in my heart recently.

Specifically, one song stood out to me. A song I've sung and listened to a million times. In my car, at church, on my iPod...but tonight, God spoke to me through it in such a unique way.

The song starts with:

He is jealous for me

then it says:

When all of a sudden, I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory
and I realize just how beautiful You are and how great your affections are for me.

and repeats (over and over again):

He loves us, oh how He loves us, oh how He loves us, oh how He loves.

As I prayed and began a full on conversation with God all I could do was ask Him, "You're jealous for me? Me? Why?". I was deeply humbled at the thought that God would be jealous for me. That He would fight for me, for our love to grow and deepen. I couldn't even finish singing the song...thinking about His love was overwhelming.

The truth is, that His glory does overshadow anything that I could ever go through, any hardship or struggle pales in comparison to who He is in my life. I'd love to, everyday, realize more and more how great His affections are for me and remember that precious truth in times of trouble. I'd love to be completely unaware of my needs, because my Father is aware...and with Him, I need not worry. I'd love this.

Something New

2009-06-30T20:21:00.000-07:00

The past few months have been incredible.

They have been challenging, faith-building, difficult, easy, peace-filled, emotional...most of all, they have been marked by change.

Just a few months ago I was living at home, finishing up at Biola, working at my home church in LA...

today everything is different.

I am living on my own (actually, with a really great roommate!), done with school and on staff at a fantastic church in Orange County...continuing to do what I love.

A very interesting thing about this change has been how I much I loved my life the way it was. I would have been completely happy to continue on where I was. Really, things are never and will never be perfect. But I had found that I was pleased with my with the way things were, content and in a really comfortable place. God challenged all of that.

God gave me no wiggle room and He (at all costs) showed me that He wanted to stretch me and that these changes were a part of the process that will lead me to becoming the woman He wants me to be.

It has been unbelievable to see God's hand move and provide and establish His will.

Model for a Day

2009-04-22T14:54:00.001-07:00

I was a model...for one day.

Elizabeth Sarinana took my picture a few weeks ago, and this is what came of it (at least just a few out of the hundreds of shots:

The whole time (while taking the pictures) I kept thinking I'd be able to tell my kids, "This is what your mother looked like when she was 25!".

Being a model is hard work! We shot for about 8 hours and I was sore for a few days after...

but really, I can't complain, because Elizabeth is so talented! I'm glad I did it!

Good Ideas are Meant to Be Stolen

2009-04-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

My friend Allison posted (a while back) about things that make you look like an idiot at a concert. While at the Hillsong United concert last night, I formed my own list:

THINGS THAT MAKE YOU LOOK LIKE AN IDIOT AT A CHRISTIAN CONCERT

Disclaimer: What I am about to type is in no way judging the other Christians who were at the concert I attended last night, these are just simple observations that drove me a little nuts. So, please don't be offended if you fit into any of these categories.

1. Yelling "We love Jesus yes we do, we love Jesus, how about you?" across the theater over and over again. Then pointing and laughing when your side "wins" the yelling match.

2. Shouting "Jesus" when everything else is quiet and the band is trying to have a "moment" of reflection. Way to draw attention to yourself instead of Jesus!

3. Clapping and cheering when the guy in #2 shouts. Really?

4. Clapping and cheering to the beat of a song that turned out to be downtempo and not uptempo, then realizing "oops, maybe I should have waited to hear where the intro was actually going".

5. Yelling and screaming every time a song had some sort of pause...even if it was a downtempo song, again...really?

Please don't be an idiot at a Christian concert.

Apparently, Physics is Romantic

2009-04-20T15:12:00.000-07:00

I really hate science, I don't get it and it takes me forever to understand elements, forces, pulls...boo!

The other day while listening to my iPod I realized that two of my favorite artists have made a physical force a part of their lyrics...and surprisingly enough, I love it!

John Mayer-Gravity
Gravity is working against me
And gravity wants to bring me down

Oh I'll never know what makes this man
With all the love that his heart can stand
Dream of ways to throw it all away

Oh Gravity is working against me
And gravity wants to bring me down

Oh twice as much ain't twice as good
And can't sustain like a one half could
It's wanting more
That's gonna send me to my knees

Sara Bareilles-Gravity
Something always brings me back to you.
It never takes too long.
No matter what I say or do I'll still feel you here 'til the moment I'm gone.

You hold me without touch.
You keep me without chains.
I never wanted anything so much than to drown in your love and not feel your reign.

Set me free, leave me be.
I don't want to fall another moment into your gravity.
Here I am and I stand so tall, just the way I'm supposed to be.
But you're on to me and all over me.

What do you say?

2009-04-15T11:54:00.000-07:00

What do you say to some who has hurt you and said really terrible things about you? Who has talked about you behind your back (while all the while you knew this and chose to ignore it)? Who has acted as if you didn't even exist and given you dirty looks?

I know what I chose to say...nothing. I just kept my mouth shut and never told anyone anything, just chose to let God soften their heart.

What do you say when they send you an email apologizing? And they live a few minutes away from you...

Am I asking for too much when I think a phone call or face to face conversation would have probably been more appropriate?

Don't get me wrong, I am really thankful that they have come to understand that what they did was wrong and I realize that it probably took a lot for them to actually type and send that message...but really?

What do you say? How do you respond to that?

I probably feel this way because I know that we will probably never be friends...real friends. We will probably be polite acquaintances. Nothing more, nothing less.

Is this resolution?

Maybe it is.

Maybe saying nothing, but forgiving quietly in my heart is enough.

But, what would you say?

Mucho, Mucho!

2009-04-06T14:45:00.000-07:00

Lots of things are changing...fast, fast, fast...but I like it because there is no other place I'd rather be, than in the center of God's will.

The only way that I can describe this season of my life is with the word PEACE.

Really...peace. What an amazing gift God gives us!

More details soon!

Why, yes...I'm still here

2009-03-25T23:37:00.000-07:00

Day 2 of PDYM was great!

It was a bit of a whirlwind...you know those times when you meet and talk with so many people at tons of different times and you wish you could remember every name, every face, every conversation but can't? Yeah, it was like that.

What most stood out though was that I think I laughed with just about everyone I met and talked with. Seriously, either I've stepped it up in my humor abilities or all these people are legitimately fun (I prefer to believe the latter is true).

I also got to meet with a few women in youth ministry and totally fell in love with them. These ladies loving God, loving students and trying to balance life as moms, wives and servants is amazing! It was great to sit and learn from one another.

Oh, and I got to say "prairie dogging it" several times...I don't know how useful that is in ministry but it was quite the highlight!

Oh, I'm Here!

2009-03-24T23:59:00.000-07:00

I'm at the PDYM Conference this week!

I'm here with three of my youngest and funnest volunteers! Seriously, I almost peed laughing today...several times.

I'm a bit exhausted and just realized that I totally forgot to text my small group to remind them there's no small group this week, oops!

None the less, the first day here has been great! We got upgraded and received a MAJOR discount at our hotel, we got to have lunch at Panda Inn (so yummy!) and we played a couple of ping pong games where I, of course, totally dominated!

So far, so good!

I Love You, America!

2009-03-16T17:06:00.000-07:00

I was required to go visit Voorhis Elementary last Friday morning.

When I got there, a few girls from Mrs. Morales' class kept me company while we waited for the bell to ring. As far as I knew we would enter class immediately following the bell...I was so excited when I found out there would be a patriotic program as their Friday morning assembly!

After reciting the Pledge of Allegiance (which I absolutely LOVE) we sang:

The Star Spangled Banner
and
This Land is Your Land

I love singing songs about our nation! I sang so loud that one of the little girls asked me how I knew these songs (I guess I look too old to have been around when school was invented).

Although we didn't sing:
America the Beautiful
God Bless America
The United States
Take Your Hat Off When the Flag Goes By!
My Country 'Tis of Thee
You're a Grand Ole Flag

I'd like to note that I love all these songs and would sing them anywhere, anytime...seriously.

Dear Dreams,

2009-03-05T09:48:00.000-08:00

I really dislike you.

I've written on my blog about disliking dreams. And I stand firm on that post.

But last night was just too much! I had a really rollercoaster-y day and was super emotional. I decided to stop reading my book a bit early so I could just go to bed and clear my mind. Then came the dream...

I dreamt that someone hated me.

This is someone I really like and I totally got my feelings hurt in my dream. A little part of me hopes that the dream wasn't a premonition...that would really be terrible!

Just so you know, it was someone who reads my blog. So if you're reading this, I really hope you don't hate me in real life.

Hip Hip Hooray!

2009-03-02T14:59:00.000-08:00

I finally got my Mac!

A lovely Talbot student was selling his for a ridiculously low price...so I bought his!

She's beautiful!

Call off the Search Party

2009-01-28T11:51:00.000-08:00

I spent over 2 hours online last week looking for this purse:

I saw it months ago on the Roxy website. Then at Macy's over Christmas. And when I went to buy it last week it was gone.

I found it at the Quicksilver Outlet yesterday, at $22 off the original price.

How lucky am I?

A Little Change Goes a Long Way...

2009-01-26T16:43:00.000-08:00

When I opened my Bank of America accounts last year I was enrolled in something they call "Keep the Change" transfers.

Here's what it is:

Every time you make a purchase with your ATM, Bank of America rounds the amount of the purchase up to the nearest dollar and transfers the difference to your savings account.

The clerk told me that B of A would match whatever change I transferred. I never saw that money...never. So I figured it was just a "new accounts gimmick" and forgot all about it.

Until today!

I went online to do some banking and saw that my savings account was $49.02 richer...

Yup, they finally matched it! Sweet!

PDYM

2009-01-26T11:11:00.000-08:00

PDYM: also known as, Please Don't Yudge Me...okay, it's not known as that, but I felt the need to start off on an apologetic note. I haven't blogged in what feels like a lifetime...sorry!

The PDYM Conference is actually run by a wonderful group of people that genuinely care about the health of youth workers and the health of student ministries (the church). And go all out to serve and equip youth ministers!

If you serve in youth ministry at your church (Pastor, volunteer, dodgeball coordinator...) COME! March 24-27, 2009 at Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, CA.

Trust me, you won't regret it!

In this community of great, passionate people my ministry found health and great direction!

An added bonus is that, I'll be there! Hope to see you there too!

Here's your personal invitation!

Register at:
pdymcommunity.com

I'm Goin' MAC!

2008-12-16T17:09:00.000-08:00

I've been in a debate with myself for the past year about switching over from being a PC to Mac user...the debate has finally ended-by the end of this week I will be the proud owner of a Mac Notebook!

There were tons of reasons for why I made the switch (reliability, durability, performance, etc.),but I thought it important to mention the most important reason of all...

I want to be cool.

It really is that simple (kidding)...

But really, I will be way cooler by the end of the week, right?

Christmas Canciones

2008-12-10T11:42:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas music...love it!

My usual Christmas playlist runs from the day after Thanksgiving until December 25th...every year.

This year I'm looking for some new, great music for the holidays. I know that nothing in the Christmas music selection is really "new". Everyone re-does the same songs over and over again...but even with that, I'd like to get some new re-done songs.

I currently have Mariah Carey, Relient K, Michael Buble, Amy Grant and a few others on my playlist...

Can you think of any others I should have?
Or better yet, which are some favorites on your Christmas playlist?

I Know

2008-12-09T19:45:00.001-08:00

I haven't been the posting diva in this season of life as I've been in the past...

I apologize.

Some of the reasons for why I have been inconsistent are the following:

1. Lack of proper Internet at home.
2. Going back to school full time, while still working at the church full time.
3. Life changes (more on that later).
4. Little to blog about (well, lack of fun, interesting things to blog about-my life has been all work and little play lately).

This is my last week of instruction before finals and I would totally appreciate your prayers as it's also a busy season in ministry.

I will post updates soon...promise!

Kiddos

2008-11-26T22:02:00.000-08:00

Today, I spent a couple of hours with some really great, hyper kids.

I've spent a lot of time lately making some pretty grown-up decisions, which has caused me to act very tense and stressed.

Hanging with these kids reminded me that life is not as hard as it seems. There are times when I make my life way more complicated than it has to be...sometimes all you need to have is a little fun and remember what a gift life truly is.

Hang out with a kid sometime...you'll see!

Library Fun

2008-11-18T20:03:00.000-08:00

We're "studying" tonight...

My friend just shot crumpled pieces of paper into a waste basket at the library from several feet away and made every shot...

Productivity at it's best.

Poor me

2008-11-16T21:27:00.000-08:00

I've had a consistent thought running through my mind for the last couple of weeks...

I am blessed beyond measure. And I complain about it.

I don't even know how I could define blessed at this point because it encompasses so much more than material possessions. But, I know that I have many things that other people in this world will never have.

Every time I catch myself saying anything negative about my job, I think of the people who are losing their jobs at that very moment...being called into an office and told that they are no longer needed.

Every time I complain about a homework assignment I think of the thousands (possibly millions) of people who will never have the chance to study at a university, and a private God-centered one at that.

I think it's strange that as Americans we make the very blessings we have into a fit of self pity every day.

"I have to wake up so early for work"
"This paper is taking forever to write"
"I am so tired of my job"
"Why do we have to read that book?"

I don't want to feel sorry for myself and my friends because we get to have jobs and study at amazing schools...it makes no sense at all.

The Stinking Rose

2008-11-09T18:03:00.000-08:00

I spent the better part of my weekend at a spa and dining around for Roxy's pre-wedding celebration. All four bridesmaids (minus Anita)-Bibi, Priscilla, Damaris and I- took Roxy out to spend time together and relax.

After a great Friday night in Corona and full Saturday at the spa we drove up to Beverly Hills for dinner at The Stinking Rose...delicious! Here are a few pictures from last night:

Once I get more Glen Ivy (spa) pictures I'll post them...such a fun, restful weekend!

Politically Incorrect

2008-11-07T11:59:00.000-08:00

I've never been too involved of even interested in politics...I even had trouble voting this week.

I've been a proud American since the day I was born and love my country. I am so grateful that I live here and have the opportunities that so many people around the world lack...I feel blessed to be an American...at least until this week.

I don't want to go on a rant...but I'm really sad and dissappointed.

I'm not dissappointed because we have a Democrat for a President-elect...I actually felt excited to witness history: the very first black man voted as President!

I'm confused by all of the negative comments I've heard...from Christians.

No matter who our President is or isn't, God is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He is in control and can do amazing things in our lives, regardless of who our country's leader is.

Speaking negatively isn't going to make things better and forcing others to think what we think is not going to help them see Jesus any better either.

I'm trusting God more than ever today and my prayer is that we, as the church, can demonstrate the love that God has demonstrated us to the rest of the world.

The Office

2008-10-27T17:56:00.001-07:00

My office is downstairs, all the way at the front of the church...the rest of the offices are in the back, upstairs.

Because of scheduling conflicts, I only get to have someone in the office with me on Fridays...besides that, I'm alone every other day of the the week (Mondays and Wednesdays-I'm at Biola on Tuesdays and Thursdays). I can't stand it.

Today I got tons of things done before noon in my office (on my computer) so that I could go to the back offices for the rest of the afternoon and work on non-computer related work at Abby's desk (she's out on Mondays). I loved it.

The girls and I decided that I'd bring my laptop in on Mondays and work at Abby's desk all day...I'm so excited for Monday to come...really I am!

I Told You So

2008-10-27T17:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a bit of advice for those of you who are young...

Listen to your parents.

My parents gave me tons of advice when I became an "adult" (when I turned 18) and began college and my own job.

Here's two:

1. Never let your gas tank go below the quarter mark. If you wait until after that, your car begins to scrape the gunk from the bottom of the tank and can cause damage to your vehicle. Plus, you never have to worry about getting stranded anywhere.

2. Pay your bills ahead of time. Not the day of or the day before...but in advance. It will help your credit score and also bring tons of savings when it comes time to pay late fees.

I didn't listen to my parents and spent the better part of my late teens and early twenties waiting for my gas light to go off before I'd pull into the gas station and sending in late payments. I'd always freak out and stress out and get mad when I had to pay extra fees.

I stopped doing that 2 years ago. I pay everything at least 2 weeks before it's due. I fill my tank when I'm at a quarter tank...not one drop less (okay, sometimes).

Trust me kids...listen to your parents, you'll lead a happy and stress-free life! At least when it comes to your car and bills!

I'll Be There For You

2008-10-26T23:51:00.000-07:00

I work in youth ministry...in a church...in a community.

I share about community, love and belonging to the body of Christ.

And yet, I have never fully understood how important it is to have a community of believers with you, in the good and the bad, with all of your mistakes out there in the open, totally weak and fragile, no judgement, just love and grace...until today.

God has been processing me through some things lately...some things that have been the hardest I've had to face (up until this point) in my life. He's showing me a lot about who He wants me to be and how I need to do all that is in my power and rely on His power for those changes to become a reality in my life.

Tonight, for the first time in as long as I can remember, I was open and fragile before an incredible friend. It was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do...ask for help, because I really can't do any of this on my own.

It was strange to feel selfish when I made the call. I felt as though I was being self-centered by calling to talk about me and what I was going through...strange, huh?

I know I'm not alone in this. That's something I'm thankful for.

I'm a Believer?

2008-10-21T23:27:00.000-07:00

I just spent an hour in the car with a friend of mine sharing about her past relationship. This isn't the first time we talk about it...it usually creeps its way in every time we talk. I don't mind...but tonight, I made some observations...

After the heartbreak that the relationship brought her almost 2 years ago...
-she tries to find the answers to the whys that are left
-she sees dreams as God giving her signs/answers
-she reads books about moving forward
-she has hope that reconciliation will occur
-she prays about it constantly
-she makes connections and traces pertinent events to the relationship
-she seeks to have God show her why this has happened to her/them

When I got my heart broken years ago I could only see how hurt I was. I didn't look for reasons, answers, God's bigger picture. I just wanted to move on and forget...I didn't look for connections, I didn't sort through my feelings, or try to process it over the course of years. I didn't pray about it much after the break-up happened...I just wanted to get over it...

Did I react in a wrong way? Should I have talked to God more about it? Was I totally ditching out on God's message through it?

Not that I'll look back and try to squeeze a message out of it now...just asking, was I totally disconnected from God during that time, in that area of my life or are some of us girls, trying to see something, when nothing is there?

Scaredy-Cat

2008-10-19T21:26:00.000-07:00

Halloween is right around the corner.

I couldn't be less excited.

Not because I don't like costumes and candy (I actually love those)...

but because scary movies freak me out and that's all that seems to be on cable this month.

I know what you're thinking,"just change the channel Jess"...that's just it...I can't. I get sucked in and then I get freaked out...I hate it.

Like right now, The Ring and I are having a channel flipping frenzy...once it gets too intense I change the channel, but there I go...flipping back a couple of minutes later.

Thank God for commercials!

It's a Small World Afterall

2008-10-15T23:20:00.001-07:00

While checking emails, posting and making changes to my blog tonight, I saw a comment a stranger left me on a post I had written last month. When I first read the comment, I paid no attention to the person who had written it, but tonight I felt the need to follow the link to their blog.

Her name is Diandra and lives 15 minutes away from me (in Cerritos). She's 23 and is on staff at a church as their youth pastor.

When I read this I thought, "Cool, I could totally read her blog and relate, since we live in the same area and are the lead youth worker at our churches."

Then it got interesting...

Her co-youth pastor is a guy I knew at Biola. I haven't seen or spoken to him in years.

The church that her church recently merged with is the church that one of my best friends used to belong to.

My friend Nick seems to know her...I figure she linked to my blog from his.

These connections might seem like nothing to some people, but boy did they occupy a good hour of my night!

Back to More of the Same!

2008-10-15T22:42:00.000-07:00

I recently posted about the "cold" weather...

False alarm, it was 92 degrees today...

Oh geez!

Seven

2008-10-15T09:41:00.000-07:00

Neely tagged me...so here we go!

1. I absolutely love balancing my checkbook. It's not that I like money, or even like spending it, I actually think the world would be a better place if money didn't exist. I just love being able to pay all my bills on time and be super organized...makes me feel accomplished!

2. I once peed on my uncle. When I was 3, my uncle came to stay with us for a couple of weeks. I was taking a nap on the couch and he happened to be laying on the floor. I woke up with a full bladder and the first place I stepped was on him...you know how it ends.

3. I didn't learn how to swim until I was 22. My mom was super overprotective when I was little and never taught me how to swim. My friends Howard and Aaron taught me over a summer and then I took a formal class that fall.

4. I can't sleep with socks on. Even when I try, they seem to end up on the floor by the time I wake up.

5. I'm in love with the cold, underside of pillows. If I could choose one item to take with me on a deserted island, a nice, cold pillow would make the top ten list.

6. I only like it when people I really like (or really like me) call me Jess. I know, weird...I can't explain it. I just see that shorter version of my name as one that is reserved for those who I am special to or are special to me...I know, weird...

7. I love dressing up. I don't do it often because of my piece of the ministry at church, but I love getting out of my jeans and wearing heels and dresses whenever I can...I really love it!

I tag...Janette, Allison, Nick, Bethany, Neal, Josh and Wes.

soCal is soCold

2008-10-13T10:57:00.000-07:00

I've been sleeping with one sheet covering me for the better part of the summer. There were nights when I slept with not sheets at all...it was so hot and sticky...gross.

About a week ago, I switched to using my duvet. It felt perfect, not too hot, not too cold.

Two nights ago, I officially pulled out my winter blankets...I'm talking heavy duty warmth.

It's felt incredible to sleep with warm, soft blankets and not be hot, sticky and sweaty...

The only bad part about the cold weather is getting up in the morning. My bed and blankets are so warm and comfy that I can't seem to peel myself out of bed.

Oh me, it's always something!

I Don't Even Notice

2008-10-08T14:53:00.000-07:00

"Men go abroad to wonder at the height of mountains, the huge waves of the sea, the long coarse of rivers, the vast compass of the ocean, the circular motion of the stars, but they pass by themselves and they don't even notice." -Augustine

I wonder how different my love for others would be if I constantly reminded myself of the wonder that every person is?

Every person is a walking miracle, created by God, designed so delicately, no one like them has ever existed or will ever exist after them, God intentionally made them who they are...

They are unique, precious, marvelous, beautiful, amazing...

Even the people who bug, annoy, irritate me...they, too, are such a masterpiece.

I just hope to be able to live out this truth everyday.

Asian Jason

2008-10-07T22:21:00.000-07:00

I'm taking a Biblical and Practical Theology of Evangelism class at Biola this semester.

Our professor places the chairs in a circle for every class meeting; which means we stare at each other for the entire class time (3 hours every Tuesday).

The guy that faces me is a twenty-something year old Asian guy...I still haven't gotten around to remembering his name. It took a couple of class sessions for me to realize that he is a carbon copy of my friend Jason. The only difference is...he's Asian and Jason is Hispanic.

He laughs like Jason, dresses like Jason, smiles like Jason, is short like Jason, has the same voice as Jason, sits like Jason, stands like Jason, walks like Jason, makes the same hand gestures as Jason...seriously...just like Jason...but Asian...it's kind of scary.

I felt like a weirdo because I found myself staring at him today...trying to see how many things he did reminded me of Jason...and evidently everything was Jason-like.

I only wish I could get them both in the same room together...that would be ridiculous.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words...

2008-10-03T15:12:00.000-07:00

I have no words...

My camera won't turn on.

I used it two weeks ago at a birthday party and it was fine...

I charged the battery all night for a wedding last Saturday. Once I popped it out for the photo shoot it wouldn't turn on.

Seriously...nothing.

No response to the on/off button, no funny sound, no screen light...nothing...just off.

Sad day.

Back on the BlogWagon!

2008-10-02T00:38:00.000-07:00

I fully accept and acknowledge the fact that my posting has been minimal this summer...

I feel ashamed and embarrassed, especially because I used to always complain when bloggers didn't blog!

But I am officially committing myself to hop back on the blog bandwagon this fall...

Good stuff is coming...just wait and read!

I Changed My Mind

2008-09-27T16:57:00.000-07:00

Remember when I posted about a wedding I was invited to?

Well, I changed my mind...

I just got home from "said" wedding and I wouldn't mind being the bride...not at all.

Truth is, no matter how long it takes to find love, when you find it, it really doesn't matter how long it took. Does that make sense?

She was happy, excited, thankful, blessed, optimistic, joyous, in love...

I don't care how long it takes for me to find that with another person...as long as I'm lucky enough to find it...that's more than enough.

I Wish I Were Turning 2 in 2 days

2008-09-23T12:32:00.000-07:00

Remember when your birthday was a HUGE deal?

When you counted down the days?

When everyone in your family was also anticipating the big day?

Can't it be like that when you're turning 25?

I'm not complaining...birthdays as a grown-up are great too, but all the fun and expectation leading up to your actual birthday seem to be watered down...

I'd like the 100% juice instead of the frozen concentrate for my birthday, please!

Nothing Better

2008-09-18T16:47:00.000-07:00

I had an exam and paper due this morning (on top of all of my other work at school and at the church)...needless to say, I was stressed and busy all week long.

I came home this afternoon with a nap, meal and some TV on DVD (Grey's Season 4) planned...

Surprise, surprise!

I found two issues of Us Weekly in my mailbox (last week's and this week's).

I can't think of a better way to spend the afternoon...

Reading my two issues, while watching Grey's and having some linner...

and then off to small group...so great!

Don't Judge Me

2008-09-16T23:43:00.001-07:00

I just got invited to a 42 year old woman's wedding.

This is her first marriage...

Is it bad that I hope to never be her?

I never want to wait that long, be an "older" mother (if being a mother is possible at all), be in the "single" stage of life for 20-plus years...

is that wrong?

Reminders

2008-09-16T23:22:00.001-07:00

I almost had a panic attack this weekend.

I'm doing full-time school and full-time work (ministry) this semester.

I thought I could do it, but when I saw that a huge test and paper collided this week I almost freaked out.

It took everything in me to not cry and cry and just give up.

I know I have to make some adjustments and get through it...

But today I was gently reminded of how sovereign and caring God is. He sweetly helped me get all of my work done and allowed me to enjoy it.

Old Me

2008-09-11T09:57:00.000-07:00

Here are a few thoughts I has today while listening to an old man talk...

When I'm old I'd like to be a great story teller
I'd like to have people sitting at the edge of their seats while I'm talking
It'd be nice if I made them laugh really hard too
I'd like to smell nice, maybe a sweet scent
Maybe have a great lap to sit on
Also, I want to be able to laugh at myself... a lot
I want to be a wealth of knowledge and wisdom
I want to still be cool
When I'm old I'd like to be a really great version of me

Crybaby

2008-09-08T14:26:00.000-07:00

The past week has been tough.

I've had tons of issues here at the church and lots of life going on in general.

I can't really talk about it, think it through or analyze the why's and what's either....I feel like I've already done enough of that.

The only thing I've been able to do is cry.

No, I haven't been a depressed mess. There have just been moments of reflection where I just start crying, just like that...I start and then I stop, I'll laugh at myself and then later I start all over again.

It's just been a flood of emotions. And I have no clue what to do with all of them...other than cry.

Twenty-Five

2008-09-03T14:32:00.000-07:00

My star birthday is coming up...

I turn 25 on the 25th this month!

When I was a teenager I always saw 25 as the officialy grown-up age.

Anywhere before that was still being a young adult, but after that, you were a grown-up.

I'm finding it hard to accept that I've come to that age so soon! I love being single and in my twenties. It's been the most fun, gratifying, exciting time of my life! I really love my life. But, I don't know if I'm ready to grow up yet.

My life is nowhere near where I thought it would be at 25...it's been totally different, and I'm so thankful to God for that! What I've done and learned has exceeded any expectations I had as a child and teenager.

Now that I'm coming into living a quarter of a century I know I'm ready for it...and really excited to see what kind of a grown-up I become...although I may not become one for a while, no matter what I said as a kid.

An Untold Tale

2008-08-29T01:31:00.000-07:00

Here's a San Fransisco story I never told...

last week, while Howard and I toured San Francisco I begged him to take me to the Full House, house...he did!

Here's 1709 Broderick St. (the house used whenever the Tanner house was shot from the outside) The doors used to be red and are now black:

Here's me sitting on the front steps (I ran off, scared the owners would come out and have me arrested for trespassing!)...

Here's me standing in front too! I know, I'm a nerd.

Seriously, one of the best moments of the trip!

We do what we like!

2008-08-18T22:49:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting next to Howard right now....in the "BuisnessLink" room of San Jose's Embassy Suites. There's no wireless here, so we have to use the onsite computers...or pay $10 for 24 hours of internet in our room. We chose free internet across from the lobby.

We spent the better part of the day driving...

driving north
to In-N-Out
to his mom's friend's house
to drop his parents off
to the hotel
to Red Lobster
to many restroom stops...

So far we've taken some time to plan the next two days...

GoCars!!!!!!!
Lombard Street
Chinatown
Alamo Square
The Full House HOUSE
Alcatraz
Winchester House

there's more, but we're still planning!

More updates tomorrow...

I Promise...

2008-08-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

I love to post on my blog.

I've just been swamped with work...

Remember I told you about my busy summer?

I just came back from a fully programmed-packed camp at Cachuma Lake and am in the middle of VBS, 'till Friday.

Then I go on vacation for a week and come back to work and start at Biola that same week.

I'm still finishing up student leadership training, doing interviews for potential staff and have trips to Raging Waters and Knotts with student ministry teams...this all happens before September 1st.

And I won't even fill you in on all the planning I have to do for the next six months...

But once my life slows down I will post again...promise!

Much Ado about Nothing

2008-07-22T14:55:00.000-07:00

I made a to do list today (we all know how much I love those)...

One of the things on my to do list was to make a to do list.

That's when you know you need to organize your life.

I Love Him More Now, Than Ever

2008-07-18T09:09:00.000-07:00

Janette and I drove down to SLC last night to listen in on Francis Chan's talk on worship.

It was amazing...

I've always loved Francis. Ever since my freshman year at Biola. He's just so passionate about God and His purpose for men here on earth.

Last night he took a piece of chicken out of his pocket to illustrate a point. It was a drumstick.

Any man who can make me see God in a new way with a drumstick is, in my opinion, incredible.

Twitter

2008-07-17T15:15:00.000-07:00

Okay...

so I am attempting to "twitter"?

And just as with blogging...it might take me a while to figure it out.

My phone refuses to cooperate, so patience would be greatly appreciated.

If you're currently "twittering"?...you might want to help me...because that would make me very happy!

"Oh my Goooood! You are SO Beautiful!"

2008-07-14T14:31:00.000-07:00

A group of us from Student Ministries went down to San Clemente for a part of the weekend...

So much fun!

We started with lunch on Friday at Fisherman's Restaurant at the pier. Their clam chowder is delicious!

Best part of lunch was Janette telling the story of a man she and her team met while in Nicaragua. Some of the girls from her team met a man that knew exactly 7 words in the English language...and he used them while following them around: "Oh my God! You are so beautiful!".

The girls got scared when he attempted to give them his phone number by typing it on a calculator and following them around with it while the whole time repeating "Oh my Gooooooood! You are SO beautiful!"...the guys on her team saved the day by telling the man to stop it.

Needless to say...we repeated that phrase to each other all weekend. I especially loved saying it to Howard when he came back from his workout.

After lunch we hung out by the beach and relaxed.

We checked in to the hotel at 3 and just did nothing until more of the boys arrived. I love watching tv, checking email, laughing, taking naps with my friends...just doing nothing feels so good.

Once the boys got there we had dinner and rented a movie. We went back to the hotel for new school year planning (which went so well). Then headed to the pool and jacuzzi.

Went to bed after the movie at about 2.

The next morning was so great...slept in a bit and went over camp details.

We went out to Casa Romantica, which overlooks the ocean:

Had lunch at a little pizzeria that sold refillable fountain drinks for 93 cents! I was the only one in my group to be ridiculously excited by the price of our drinks...seriously awesome.

Then had more beach time where Howard laid out in hopes of tanning his arms...

he did so unsuccessfully.

Went to Saddleback to visit HSM and Wildside where Allison and Bethany gave us a tour of the Refinery...fun!

A really great couple of days with friends!

Sara Bareilles

2008-07-14T12:34:00.000-07:00

I know I'm always the last to find out about a "good" musician...and I didn't miss a beat with this one!

I listened, for months, to Sara Bareilles on TV like many of you...on commercials and such but wasn't impressed (I don't think "Love Song" is all that great).

I decided to see if any of her other songs were good, so I took a listen...

My favorite is "Gravity" ("You hold me without touch. You keep me without chains. I never wanted anything so much than to drown in your love and not feel your rain")...

I also like "Bottle It Up" and "Love on the Rocks".

You should try her...I think you'd like her very much!

Remember when you had to develop film in order to see the pictures?

2008-07-10T10:56:00.001-07:00

I do.

About a month ago, while cleaning my room, I found 4 rolls of undeveloped film. Immediately it hit me, they were from my trip to Spain in 2004...yes, I procrastinate.

I didn't there there was much hope...I always thought film "went bad" after a couple of years. So I procrastinated some more and waited until this weekend to see if they were still good enough to develop the pictures.

So, I went to the little photo shop down the street from my old house (just 3 minutes from my new house). The same shop my family and I always developed film at...since I was 9. I hadn't been there since digital cameras came into existence.

Once I walked in I was transformed into a 10 year old. The signs, the smells, the people...all the same. I looked up and a banner read "We've been here since 1990". I sometimes think 1990 is recent...then I remember it's 2008...

I picked my pictures up on Tuesday....

Pictures of my friends and I gallivanting through Spain, my nieces and nephews as toddlers, my small group students who are now adults as unfashionable, awkward freshmen...

I'll post some pictures up once I get a chance to scan them!

I love bridges. I hate bridges.

2008-07-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

I've posted (on this blog) about how bridges scare me.

I always figure some massive earthquake will hit while I'm crossing one, or that a suicidal person will take a leap just as I'm looking over the edge and leave me traumatized for life.

But last week, while listening to Howard's iPod, I realized how much I love bridges.

Most of my favorite lyrics have been part of musical bridges.

I love that realizations are made in the bridge of a song, words of inspiration are sung, the climax of it all...

I wonder what would happen if I listened to a bridge while on a bridge?

Would I suddenly love both bridges or be altogether scared?

I want to write lines like these...

2008-06-30T16:00:00.000-07:00

"The thing that separates you from the rest is greatness."

"I know I'm the villain in your story, but I'm a good man."

"I'm not done loving you."

"I think that we could be extraordinary together, rather than ordinary apart."

I just saw season 4 finale of Grey's Anatomy...

I don't think I've ever loved that show more than I do at this very moment.

Free book!

2008-06-25T13:22:00.000-07:00

I got a gift card to Borders a couple of weeks ago and have been wondering what I should get with it.

I was looking into purchasing some poetry (love letters, love poems, pretty much anything love), but wasn't sure what exactly to look for (I'm not a huge poetry girl...but would like to be).

So, I set up a date with a friend (who happens to have excellent taste in poetry) to go into Borders together and have him school me on poetry, the good, the bad and the cheezy.

Today, while reading Allison's blog, I decided to forgo the poetry and buy this.

I'm so excited!

I'm going to Borders right after I leave the office today.

I'll let you know how it goes...

Long time no blog

2008-06-23T16:31:00.000-07:00

Recovering from being sick, running an entire summer event this weekend and spending time with one of my best friends (who just returned from a month and a half long trip to Nicaragua) have consumed my life...

posts will follow shortly!

Sick

2008-06-19T10:30:00.000-07:00

I've been sick (ridiculously sick) for the past two days...

having an infection bites...trust me...

the best part of my illness has been watching endless Jon and Kate Plus Ei8gt from bed and also having my niece tell me her mom has been sick too...

Her words exactly:

"Oh, you're sick...my mom's sick too, she's sick of us!"

Priceless.

Verbal Vomit

2008-06-13T19:55:00.000-07:00

There's this friend I have...

Every time I'm around him I can't seem to shut up.

I just keep going and going...silence is really awkward with him...so, I just keep talking.

I'm usually okay with silence...just not with him. I get nothing from him. No response to questions. No laughter after my witty jokes. Seriously. Nothing.

After I'm done hanging out with him I'm exhausted. I can't even remember half the stuff that spilled out of my mouth.

We hung out this morning and somehow I ended up bringing up kissing, my future husband and this...

talk about awkward.

On My Mind

2008-06-11T13:54:00.000-07:00

A COUPLE OF WEEKS AGO
I couldn't get these lyrics out of my head:

Heal my heart and make it clean
Open up my eyes to the things unseen
Show me how to love like you have loved me
Break my heart from what breaks yours
Everything I am for your kingdoms cause

YESTERDAY
I read this on Neely's blog...

and read this on another blog.

LAST NIGHT
As I prayed for three of my friends, who are currently serving people in different countries, my heart ached and was deeply burdened. I cried...for them and for those whom they've been sharing their lives with.

THIS MORNING
I read:

"If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor,
he too will cry out and not be answered."
Proverbs 21:13

and listened to:

It is not a human right
To stare not fight
While broken nations dream
Open up our eyes, so blind
That we might find
The Mercy for the need

I've always felt I was aware of the needs around me, the needs around the world. But now I feel as though its not been enough.

I know God is wanting to show me something I thought I already saw.

You're a 90's Kid If:

2008-06-09T15:28:00.000-07:00

you remember...

Watching:
Doug
Pinky and the Brain
Animaniacs
Saturday morning cartoons

TGIF:
Step by Step
Full House
Family Matters
Disnosaurs
Boy Meets World

PBS:
Mister Roger's Neighborhood
Ghostwriter
Reading Rainbow

the WB

Saying:
Psyche
da Bomb
Talk to the hand

Eating:
Warheads
Splashers Gum
Ring pops

Also, if:
You just cant resist finishing this . . . "In west Philadelphia born and raised..."

You remember reading "Goosebumps"

You settled everything with rock paper scissors, bubble gum, bubble gum in a dish or ms. mary mack

Kick ball was something you did everyday

You used to listen to the radio all day long just to record your FAVORITE song of ALL time on a tape

You remember when Super Nintendos, Sega Genesis and game Boy became popular

You always wanted to send in a tape to America’s Funniest Home Videos . . . but never taped anything funny

You remember boom boxes instead of cd players

You made those little paper fortune cookie things and predicted your life with them

All your school supplies were "Lisa Frank" brand

You collected Beanie Babies

You remember silver dollars being were cool to have

You know what an original walkman is

You know the Macarena by heart

You had light up sneakers...and they were cool

You rented VHS tapes, not DVDs

You remember gas being $0.95 a gallon

You actually played outside until it was dark!

I saw a variation of this on myspace today...it made me smile more than once...

At the Beach

2008-06-09T11:59:00.000-07:00

Gettyng Around

2008-06-06T18:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Chris and I spent the day at the Getty Center (well, part of the day).

We saw:
Imagining Christ
Photography: Basic Forms
Photography: People of the Twentieth Century
Greek & Roman Art
and the gardens too.

Saw "Made of Honor" at the Grove and browsed Barnes & Noble.

Such a nice day...

iHeart iTunes

2008-06-04T15:54:00.000-07:00

I just bought 19 songs on iTunes.

Most of them love songs...

all of them, songs I spent hours listening to while laying in a hammock on my grandparents farm the summer of my sophomore year in high school.

Every song brings back a memory, emotion, boy, friend (notice it's not boyfriend but boy, friend)...

I heart the fact that I don't have to run around searching stores for all these songs...all I had to do was type in the search bar...and it ran around for me.

I really do love iTunes.

Delicious Music

2008-06-03T15:24:00.000-07:00

I have really great taste in TV...

I have really great taste in food...

I have really great taste in movies...

I have bad taste in music.

Which brought this thought to mind:
How does one develop good taste in music?

I always wonder where people hear about a great bad, new artist, musical gem?

Every great musician I've heard, has been a direct referral from a friend who has great taste in music...

I'd like to be that person one day.

The one who burns CDs for friends and says, "Oh, let's go see this amazing band I heard" and everyone loves whatever music they choose.

If you're that person...how do you do it?

I am impressive

2008-06-03T15:19:00.000-07:00

Our Student Ministry services were on break for the weekend...

So, during the second Sunday morning service, Bibi, Edgar and I decided to go over to the Garage and clean up...

I swept, mopped, cleaned a toilet (the whole bathroom, actually), moved large amounts of furniture, dusted and organized a closet...all while wearing an LBD (little black dress).

Yes, I know how impressive that is.

Exhausted...

2008-06-01T10:20:00.001-07:00

I've been all over the place this week (feels like I say that every other week)...

I'll be blogging it up next week...

don't worry!

Tagged

2008-05-28T13:52:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by Neely...

Five things on my to-do list today:
-Clean my room
-Call Rosalba
-Go to Staff Service
-Watch Grey's Anatomy season finale
-Make to-do list for next week

Five snacks I enjoy:
-Pop Secret popcorn
-Coke (does that count?)
-Breyers Vanilla ice cream
-Salt Water Taffy
-Japanese peanuts

Five things I would do if I were a millionaire:
-Pay off my student loans
-Buy a new car
-Travel
-Save
-Give to many, many charities/non-profits...can't choose one

Five places I have lived:
-Los Angeles, Ca.
-Pasco, Wa.
-Bell, Ca.
-South Gate, Ca.
-nowhere else...

Five bad habits I have:
-Chipping my nails
-Talking too much
-Correcting people's grammar constantly
-Cracking my knuckles
-not knowing what to put next...

Five jobs I have held:
-Student Store clerk (junior high)
-Albertson's courtesy clerk
-Personal assistant
-Tutor
-Student Minister

HOORAY...I did it!

I tag Allison and Damaris...

And this makes 500

2008-05-27T15:22:00.000-07:00

This is my 500th post!

Took me a while to get here...but I did!

Hooray!

Wedding Lessons:

2008-05-27T14:58:00.000-07:00

Here's Bibi, Cookie and I during the ceremony..I just got done with the second of three weddings I will participate in this year (this wedding is the one where I was J-Lo).

Here are a few thoughts I gathered after it was all said and done:
- Never let the groom do the decorating...unless he has an obvious creative touch.
- Blue and white don't go with a gold-themed wedding.
- Designer heels and standing up all day don't go well together.
- Make sure to tell your mother goodbye before leaving for your honeymoon.

I am proud to announce that I was able to clean up an entire reception in my 3-inch heels...

take that, 13-hour day!

Raindrops Falling on My Head...

2008-05-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

I was desperately needed at the lot today...it was sometime around 1pm...

I stepped out of the church and felt a light drizzle.

I went into the building at the lot to try and fix the alarm ( I failed)...

once I stepped out I was soaking wet...

pouring rain, from one moment to another.

By the time I went back to the church the rain had stopped, but the asphalt was steaming...

crazy weather!

I am a murderer

2008-05-21T14:32:00.000-07:00

Everytime I hear a new song I like...

I kill it.

I play it over and over again until I can't anymore...

this usually takes a good couple weeks to happen.

I love learning the lyrics by heart, memorizing every part, feeling the beat, loving what it says and why it's said, taking it all in...

and then, I love telling my friends about it and making them listen to it. I often speak the lyrics to them, just to make sure they are also taking it all in...

What do you do when you find a great, new song?

I Can See Clearly Now, the Rain is Gone

2008-05-19T13:45:00.000-07:00

I went out to dinner with a new group of people last night.

By new, I mean people I usually don't spent any time with. It's those people I see at church every weekend, but never slow down to actually talk to or spent time with.

Strange thing is, they're all my age (most of them, at least), going through the same things I'm going through, watching the same TV I do, worried about the same things I worry about.

I always thought they were different. Thought they weren't like me...and I found that I was right, but also wrong...

Does that make sense?

All this to say that yesterday...

I had a really good time.

Chocolate Milk for Adults

2008-05-16T10:39:00.000-07:00

Last year, while tutoring the Zandate kids, their mom, Laura, brought home frapuccinos for us. I'd never tasted that blend...but it was yummy. It had chocolate in it, chocolate chips too, and cream...super good!

Yesterday morning, I woke up with a strong craving for that drink. And I mean STRONG.

So before heading to work I stopped by Starbucks and described what I remember the frap tasted like to the barista...the girl said, "Oh, you mean the double chocolate chip frap?", my answer, "sure, why not?".

Once I took the first sip, I knew it was IT.

My friends laughed at me and said that the double chocolate chip frap is just a fancy, iced version of chocolate milk...

I don't care...I love it!

What Are the Odds?

2008-05-15T14:22:00.000-07:00

I smacked my left elbow on the edge of my desk at the church on Sunday morning...

I smacked it again on the edge of Gaby's desk on Wednesday while looking for cheap flights to Mexico City...

while cleaning up last night I smashed the same elbow on my cupboard door...

boo!

First Night In

2008-05-14T14:38:00.000-07:00

Tonight will be the first evening in over two weeks that I will be staying home.

I can't wait to organize papers, watch some good TV and update my planner.

I think some family is coming over too!

So good to finally rest from all the fun I've been having.

Naturally 7

2008-05-12T20:21:00.000-07:00

I went to see Michael Buble in concert at the Honda Center on Saturday night.

So good!
Here's what's up though...

his opening act was a group called Naturally 7.

7 guys who do something they call "vocal play". No instruments, no backup music, no pre-recorded tracks...they all "play" (sing) the instruments you hear.

Very, very cool.

Check them out here...

and here.

Connect Four (minus 1)

2008-05-12T20:07:00.000-07:00

At my small group last week we had a question and discussion night.
Students were allowed to write any question on a piece of paper that would be read aloud to the group and could be discussed.
Homosexuality was brought up...and was the most heated topic of all.

I've spent the last week praying through this coming weekend...we'll be starting a series on taboo topics and homosexuality is up first. I'm trying to find ways to program it without being offensive or cheesy.

This afternoon a person came into my office, someone I hadn't had an actual conversation with in a long time, and they confessed struggling with homosexual feelings. We spent a good hour talking, sharing, praying.

Strange how God connects it all together.

Here's why I haven't posted much:

2008-05-07T11:53:00.000-07:00

FRIDAY
Dinner with Maribel & Gaby
SATURDAY
Jeremy's game, birthday party, birthday bowling

SUNDAY

The Little Mermaid with Damaris

MONDAY

All-you-can-eat Dodger Game

Damaris choking on a peanut

Singing "take me out to the ballgame"

TUESDAY

Disney

It's been fun!

Interesting

2008-05-05T14:05:00.000-07:00

I've asked a couple of people a question recently:

are tattoos acceptable to God?

The answers I've gotten have been very interesting.

For me...tattoos are a cultural issue not a biblical one.

For others...well, I've had mixed feelings thrown at me.
Some find them beautiful while others think you'll have to give God an account for them...really?

What do you think?

Friends

2008-04-30T14:29:00.000-07:00

As I was driving into work today I thought about my best friends.

I spent yesterday evening with a couple of them.

It used to be that we spent every waking moment together, saw each other all week long, made plans at a moment's notice...

now we've all grown up and have so much going on.

As we were talking and laughing during dinner last night I thought of how much more I value them now...now that we don't get to always be together.

Just the thought of it...

I get to have these girls in my life that get me, love me, accept me...when we are together it's like nothing else. I am me and they are them and we love each other just the same. I don't think I can have as much fun with anyone else, like when I am with them.

This morning I got a message from one of them...
a call from the other...

I really love them.

Booked

2008-04-30T13:19:00.000-07:00

I've been working on my calendar for the better part of the day.

High school events, camps, kids ministry things, family gatherings, overnighters, luxury camping, beach trips, Mexico City, the theater, conferences...

I seriously don't know how I'm going to get through this summer...

there's so much to do (fun stuff) and I want to do it all...just don't know how I'm going to fit it all in.

If I were still in second grade, this is when I would be excited...I'd have SO many stories to tell my class about all the fun stuff I got to do over the summer.

No...seriously.

2008-04-28T14:45:00.001-07:00

The air conditioning in my car is broken...

so is the AC in my office.

It's been over 90 degrees for the past three days...

is this some kind of sad joke?

Worse part is going to the back offices and hearing one of the girls say, "Oh, I'm so cold!" -regarding the AC.

Seriously?

I'm not a girl, not yet a woman...

2008-04-26T16:06:00.000-07:00

I have never considered myself a girly-girl.

I love being a girl...don't get me wrong...I just don't consider myself girly.

I like getting dirty, sitting on the floor, proving someone wrong when they say that something is too heavy for me to pick up, burping, laughing really hard...

I also like wearing dresses, high heels, perfume, doing my hair, talking about boys...

The other day though...I crossed over.

I went into CVS and came out with nail polish and eye shadow.

Before that night I had never purchased two pieces of make-up (I know nail polish doesn't qualify as make-up, but follow me) at once...

maybe it's time for a change.

Me? A Singer?

2008-04-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

I posted (a couple of weeks ago) about my desire to sing well.

I was finally pushed over the edge and convinced to take classes with Jazmin while at Fuse on Friday night.

I sat next to a couple of girls who were there for the first time. We chatted and they seemed fun...they even laughed at all my lame jokes (really a perfect first meeting).

We all sang a bunch of songs and right before we went into "Came to My Rescue" I whispered to the girl next me, "Oh, I love this song!"....she smiled and said, "You have a really nice voice".

All my friends make fun of my singing...but a total stranger saw the potential...

funny.

Mmmmmmmm

2008-04-22T10:50:00.000-07:00

I had a Coke with my breakfast, lunch and dinner the other day...

is that bad?

This Thursday Night

2008-04-22T10:46:00.000-07:00

I can't wait for it!

My Future Home #2

2008-04-20T17:28:00.000-07:00

You can read what I first posted about my future home HERE.

I went shopping on Friday and made more purchases for my future home...

This:
and this:

Here are the next items on my list:

Vase

and Salt & Pepper Shakers

I can't wait to use them all!

Friendly Fun

2008-04-20T17:02:00.000-07:00

Here's a low-down of what I've been up to for the past 3 days...

FRIDAY
Rand errands in Orange County
Met up with Allison for lunch at Wahoo's and fun conversation.
Spent time with Liz and Faith at Cheesecake Factory and shopping at Brea Mall.
Had dinner with 20 people until midnight.

SATURDAY
Spent the better part of the day by myself.
Had dinner with Janette and her family.
Did homework with Janette and had banana splits.

SUNDAY
Spent morning at church.
Afternoon watching Forrest Gump, America's Next Top Model and THS.
Evening with Damaris and some Mc Donald's.

It's been a fun weekend!

What's COOKing, Good Looking?*

2008-04-17T11:18:00.001-07:00

I'm not an American Idol fan...but watched it this week (mostly because of the Mariah re-makes...I really loved her growing up).

And so I fell in love with David Cook:

If you can pull off "Always Be My Baby" and make it new and fresh for someone who's hear it hundreds of times (me)...you won in in book!

*I realize how cheezy this title is.