January 2007
01.16.07 (7:31 pm) [edit]Hey, hey. It's been an awful long time since I have written a post. I would like to write more often, but we don't have access to the internet in our new apartment. So, for everyone who doesn't know - I graduated, got married and moved to St. Paul - but not in that order. I am done at North Central (thank God) and working as a banker at USBank as well as trying to freelance write a little. Life is good, much simpler than one year ago. If I learned anything from that experience, it is that few people are willing to sacrifice to honor their principles. It's sad, really. Enough about that. I could write on that topic for days, but I won't. Instead I will leave off on this note ... change is good.
75 degree in Michigan
06.18.06 (11:27 am) [edit]Wow, yesterday was sweltering here, but today is cool and breezy! I am in Michigan visiting my parents before I start my new job next week. My husband Chuck was here with me, but he went back because he has to work tomorrow. I haven't updated im awhile because we got rid of the internet and life has been crazy enough without it. I probably won't update as frequently as before - sorry! WEll, it seems like the Northern Light battle is over - good riddance. I want to move on with my life. Life is good - I won't complain because that will just make me unhappy ... instead I will focus on the wonderful gifts God has given me!!! There is a list next to my old bed here at home with prayer topics I wrote in high school. I will list (some of) them below :) Give thanks for ... - eternal life! - family - friends - car! - food - shelter - love - job Pray for ... - friends - family - future husband
Homeade applesauce
05.24.06 (11:09 pm) [edit]Today was a day for cleaning, cooking and helping out a friend. I got the chance to help a friend by re-writing her resume, which she paid me for. She is applying for a job that she really wants, so hopefully her new revamped resume will get her the job!!! If you or anyone you know needs their resume tweaked or written, let me know!
I got some great slow cooker/crock pot recipes from a friend. My first recipe was homeade applesauce and it turned out soooo yummy. It is something I would like to make again!
I had a job interview on Monday and am waiting to hear back from the family. Please pray that I would get the position, I really want to work for this family!
Blessings!
The church today
05.19.06 (10:07 am) [edit]I haven't updated in awhile. Sorry everyone! I have needed to step away from school and everything to destress. It has been a difficult year and I believe God wants me to focus on Him. I think that part of my recovery is to rediscover Christian leaders who I can respect. This whole deal with the Northern Light has left me disillusioned with "Christian" leaders. I feel that many leaders who I dealt with in the last six months turned out to be much less of a Christian than I had hoped. It has been disheartening to say the least. So this has brought me to think a lot about Christianity and the modern church. I feel like the church today is not what God necessarily intended. Don't get me wrong- I love church, I was raised in the church and I think going to church and being with believers has many benefits. HOWEVER, if you think about it Jesus never commanded his followers to meet in an established building meant only for Christians. More or less He instructed His followers to gather together to pray, for fellowship, etc. I think a good example of that is that he and his disciples (and others with whom he visited and stayed with) often shared meals together in someone's home. Only sometimes did Jesus have a very large crowd he taught, and that was simply because people gathered when he was teaching. I guess my point is this. I don't like huge mega-churches, etc. I think Jesus intended for us to meet in smaller (much smaller!) groups as Christians for fellowship, prayer, meals and teaching. The sort of brotherhood that can be achieved in those types of small group settings cannot usually be achieved in a large church. There is much more one-on-one ability to pray for a person's specific needs, time to really get to know each other, the opportunity to have real accountability and many other benefits. I guess what it comes down to is that I think we as Christians should meet in our homes in a Bible study sort of way with pastors that also meet with us. Of course that presents some problems, but I think I think it is a more desirable situation which could lead to real spiritual growth in the church. One problem is that obviously the person teaching or leading the Bible study (since there won't be enough pastors to lead every Bible study of 10-15 people) might not be qualified enough to teach unless he has studied the Bible at a school or taken classes, etc. But then again we can't possibly come up with enough Bible college graduates to lead these Bible studies. So there is the risk that the leaders of these smaller sessions might not be properly qualified in some people's eyes. And certainly most pastors would not go to a Bible school or take courses, spend a bunch of money on that, take their tests to be a pastor and then want to spend all their time with a super small congregation. Practically speaking it would not be a very lucrative position at all. However, I think if the church had the faith ... I mean REALLY had faith in action ... it could branch into these small groups and thrive. For one thing our pastors aren't supposed to be worried about their salary. God says he will take care of all our needs if we trust in Him! Also, we should have the faith and patience with the potentially "underqualified" leaders of small Bible studies. If we truly believe that God still gives us revelations through his Word, through the Holy Spirit, through nature, etc. then every leader (with the help of his group) should be able to decipher the Bible with God's guidance. So these are my thoughts. Take them as you will. This has been rolling around in my mind for awhile :) I think I'm going to look for a small Bible study to join ...
Check it out ...
04.08.06 (9:01 pm) [edit]www.nlnews.org http://www.startribune.com/46... http://www.grandforks.com/mld... http://www.duluthsuperior.com... http://www.wctrib.com/ap/inde... http://wcco.com/local/local_s... http://www.wctrib.com/ap/inde... http://www.grandforks.com/mld... http://www.in-forum.com/ap/in...
The Northern Light ... censored
03.31.06 (12:59 am) [edit]Staff and friends, I want to inform you of a situation that has risen with the April 4 issue of the Northern Light. Administration approached me today through the NL adviser and the Communications department chair and asked us to take the Northern Light off the web. According to them, at least one donor to North Central read the paper online and protested. It's my understanding that the donor threatened to withdraw funding because of a few articles he/she read, namely the paper's coverage of Soulforce and a opinion commentary about the doctrine of the initial physical evidence and speaking in tongues. The school has informed me that it is a legal liability to have the website affiliated with North Central University. Administration also initially informed us that we could not write an article about Soulforce for the April 4 issue. I believe this is in conjunction with the protesting donor. We planned to write an article on how the school is preparing for April 17, the day the Soulforce Equality Riders plan to come to North Central to protest. Our article was going to include what security measures are to be taken by the school, advice to faculty, students and staff on how to respond on that day, etc. It was going to be an informative article about the plan and approach the school is currently taking. However, the article was approved, but only if it is pre-read by the Communications department chair, our adviser and Nate Ruch who is the Executive director of University Relations and is on the President's Cabinet. Ruch also happens to be the main source for the article. Also, the entire paper is to be pre-read by the Comm. dept. chair and our adviser. I am very upset by the actions the school is taking. In no way have we been a staff or organization who has attempted to print malicious or libelous content. Our coverage has been fair and balanced. We have tried to cover news that is important to our school. We understand that as students and journalists we must be accurate and conscientious of who we serve - this school. It has been our (my) privledge to be a part of the Northern Light and serve our student body. However, I have not taken a stand in the past when administration or those in power above me have, in my opinion, violated their role as the trustees of our education by censoring the Northern Light. They have controlled content regarding to Soulforce by either forcing us to not cover events surrounding it by canceling the printing of the paper or requiring us to run the articles through a member of administration prior to publication. I cannot in good conscience keep silent about this violation of journalistic ethics, principles and thwarting of the journalism students' educations. The stance and actions the school is taking is harming our education. While I love this school and have paid thousands of dollars to earn a degree from here, my heart aches at what is happening here. I am saddened, disillusioned and angry that I have to ask my staff to compromise their ethics, morals and standards to get a degree. The very ethics, morals and standards that are taught in journalism classes are not being encouraged and enforced when it comes down to their practical and real-world use ... producing a newspaper. I hope that as you read this e-mail you feel the weight I have felt this past year - a lack of support and understanding that has underwritten the Northern Light. If this situation were only a matter of principles and journalistic ethics, I might be able to push them down inside myself and hope they would re-emerge in the not too distant future. But this isn't just about principles - the Northern Light is ultimately an educational tool. And the education the staff and myself are receiving is misguided at best and horribly flawed at worst. I plan to approach administration and protest these actions. I am sharing this situation with you because I am hoping you will lend your support or advice. I have held my breath on this issue for far too long. Sincerely, Hope (Andrews) Bahr Northern Light Editor-in-Chief 2005-06 hopie26@hotmail.com
Check it out ...
03.22.06 (9:46 pm) [edit]The Northern Light, our campus paper, is online now at: www.nlnews.org My husband has been working veerry hard to get it up and going by himself. Kudos to him. Also, pick up the next copy of Newsweek this weekend or early next week. Chuck just might be quoted in it. Or at least, there will be an article about North Central and the Equality Ride :)
Creative or organized ... Can't I be both?!?
03.09.06 (1:12 pm) [edit]What does it mean to be right or left brain dominated? I am not sure yet. But with three tests, two came out that I am left-brained and one came out right. Try this test - Without thinking too much, cross your hands in your lap. Did you do it? Ok. http://www.ibidphoto.com/imag... Now look down.Is your right thumb or your left thumb on top? Whichever one is means that side of your brain is dominant.
Brain Lateralization Test Results |
| Right Brain (28%) The right hemisphere is the visual, figurative, artistic, and intuitive side of the brain. Left Brain (60%) The left hemisphere is the logical, articulate, assertive, and practical side of the brain |
personality tests by similarminds.com
Car today, gone tomorrow
02.26.06 (12:20 pm) [edit]So my car was stolen. Or I should say "our" car was stolen. Well, Thursday morning when Chuck went to drive it to a job interview, he called me from the road and asked if I had moved the car. I said "Noooo - um, why do you ask?" And he said "Well, it's gone. It must have been stolen." Now, we used to joke about this all the time. We have street parking so we never park in the same spot twice, so sometimes it's hard to find the car. But this time I could tell by the tone of his voice that the car really probably was stolen. So we called the cops. The police advised us to call the impound lot. And I called them, knowing full well that the car wouldn't be at the impound lot! It was in a place where it would never be towed unless it had been abandoned for months. Well, it was at the impound lot. Someone had stolen it, driven around for a few hours, got into a car accident and fled the scene. Then the car was towed to the lot at almost 3 a.m. Imagine my surprise! By the time we finally got to the impound lot to get my car, I was ready to cry. As the van drove me down the endless lines of cars with bent up hoods, crushed in windows, missing doors, etc. I spotted my car, hardly banged up at all! When I went down to inspect the car I found four obvious differences: 1. The front right headlight was bashed out. 2. The ignition switch where you plug your car key was cut off. 3. There were three large bottles of unopened beer laying in the passenger seat. 4. (And last but not least) A wallet which was not mine or anyone's I know lying in the back seat. When I got back to Chuck at the lot I was laughing hysterically. I couldn't believe some guy had stolen my car and left his (or someone else whose he stole)wallet in the car!!! I gave the wallet (which did contain some ID cards inside) to the police and filled out a report. I also paid to release the car ($138 or something like that) and then we tried to drive the car off the lot, but the right tire fell off. So then we had to get it towed to the mechanic, but the tow truck wouldn't come for a few hours, so Chuck and I walked the 3-4 miles back home. So now the car is at the mechanics ... waiting to be fixed. My pooooor car. It's been through so much! When I get it home (if it's fixable) I will give it a well-deserved bath and vacuuming!
45 degrees
02.04.06 (1:41 pm) [edit]It's been really warm here in the last few days. On Thursday I was driving to the bank and I had the windows open and it was warm, warm, warm. I loved it! The perfect temperature and as I lifted my hands to float in the warm breezes, my wedding ring caught the sunlight and shined more beautifully than ever before.
I love having a ring to remind me that someone loves me enough to be with me for forever. Sometimes we don't understand each other, sometimes we hurt each other's feelings, BUT we love each other and tell each other so often.
Whoever invented wedding rings was a genius. This ring is similiar to mine in the band, but instead of a row of diamonds, mine has four diamonds in the center in a flower-like shape. I love my ring, my husband and I got to pick them out together and it was so fun! 
Trouble in twos
01.20.06 (3:50 pm) [edit]Or double trouble that is. It seems trouble comes at us not once, but twice. I think everything is going ok, but then something trips up and juuuuuuuust when I am getting everything ok trouble hits up again!!!! Whammy!!! So it's harder to get back on track. What am I talking about ... I'm not even sure. But here are a list of things that come in two's. Some are good, some are bad. Some are both! - Twin babies! - Twinkies - Animals onto the ark - socks - arms, legs, ears, eyes, um, other stuff - couples (at least tradition ones) - trouble (we've covered this!) - the president and vp There are more ...
My team is 10 and 0 . . .
01.13.06 (10:18 pm) [edit]That's what my husband just said. So I used it as my title. I am good - happy. Trying to save up money and do a good job as a newspaper person. I don't like being in charge, though. It stinks.
Quick meals ... with 4-5 ingredients!
01.01.06 (7:01 pm) [edit]Since some of you who read my blog reguarly have to cook for yourself, here are some quick meal ideas that require only a few ingredients. Try out one and tell me how it went!
I love cooking (and now that I have someone who loves my cooking so much, it is fun to experiment and try new recipes). It is tough to just cook for one person. If you try these out, I suggest freezing or storing half the recipe for later if you are cooking just for yourself.
PESTO STUFFED STEAK -- INGREDIENTS:
- 2 (1 lb.) beef rib eye steaks, about 1-1/4" thick
- 1/4 cup basil pesto
- 3 Tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
PREPARATION: Heat grill. Cut into side of each steak, forming a deep pocket. Be careful not to cut through to opposite side. Mix pesto and cheese and spread into pockets. Press closed and drizzle oil over beef.
Place steaks carefully on grill and cook 4-5" from medium coals for 12-15 minutes for medium doneness, turning once. Remove from grill, cover, and let stand for 5-10 minutes. Cut beef into thick strips to serve. 4 servings
SHRIMP TOMATO RICE SALAD -- INGREDIENTS:
- 3 cups cold cooked rice
- 1/2 cup zesty Italian salad dressing
- 1/8 tsp. white pepper
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 lb. cooked, peeled, deveined shrimp
PREPARATION: Toss together all ingredients in medium bowl to combine. Cover and chill for 30 minutes to blend flavors. 4 servings
- 8 oz. can crushed pineapple, undrained
- 3 oz. pkg. instant coconut pudding and pie filling mix
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
PREPARATION: In food processor or blender, combine all ingredients. Blend or process for 30 seconds. Cover and refrigerate several hours to blend flavors. Serve with fresh fruit for dipping. Serves 20.
HAZELNUT BROWNIES
INGREDIENTS:
- 21 oz. pkg. fudge brownie mix
- 1 cup chopped hazelnuts, toasted
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup oil
- 1 egg
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
PREPARATION: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease bottom only of 13x9" pan. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and beat 50-60 strokes with spoon. Spread batter in prepared pan and bake at 350 degrees for 22-25 minutes or just until set. Do not overbake. 36 bars
No longer on the market :)
12.30.05 (1:10 pm) [edit]Yay!!! I am married and it is so wonderful. Here are five things that rock:
1. Not having to say goodnight over the phone each night. I can do it in person. Yeeha!
2. Eating REAL meals together! In our house! Not just at Applebees!
3. Snuggling on the couch without being keeping the door open!!! (ahh, NCU dorm rules!)
4. Snuggling on the couch without worrying about some random roommate, parent or RA bursting in and looking down at us for sharing a blanket, pillow or kiss.
5. Waking up next to the most wonderful, sweet man ever.
Anyway, I am on my honeymoon. So bye!!!!
How romantic
12.14.05 (10:45 am) [edit]I just heard the most romantic thing ... apparantly the lead actor and actress from "The Notebook" are engaged. How sweet is that? It's a really good movie (Sappy, yes. And also they sleep together before they are married which is bad, but the overall movie has a good message). It is Rachel McAdams and Ryan Gosling, both of whom I like a lot - I think they are pretty decent at acting.
So, yeah, I thought that was awfully romantic. Although, it does make me wonder about people who act in movies togther. How often does that really happen, anyway? That two people who act together fall in love? Well, happy days for those two, I guess :)
I don't know - I am trying not to be cynical about it. I want to enjoy a romantic love story every once in a while without dwelling on whether or not they have sex before they are married. Because that cropping up in the story can ruin it. But unfortunately that is a part of society these days so it crops up a lot.
Workin' ...
12.14.05 (7:32 am) [edit]Geez Louise! It's been a crazy semester! I can't believe it's almost over - it feels like I had a million and one things to do by two days from now, but mostly I am done. I have
-2 take-home exams
-1 in-class exam (it's going to be a KILLER)
Other than that, I am done with schoolwork. BUT there is a lot of other stuff I have to do.
- Send out wedding invites (hopefully they will get back from the printer today!)
- plan, plan and plan some more.
Sorry, I was going to actually list the stuff I have to do yet, but it started to make me feel icky and overwhelmed, so I stopped. The good news is that I'm getting married - I am so excited to be Charles' wife. He is such a good man and I love him so much. I am excited to make our lives together.
Anyway, enough emotional sillyness :) -- much love and happy holidays!!!!!!
Update ...
11.30.05 (10:30 pm) [edit]So things have definitely been nuts. Good, but nuts nonetheless. I should be in bed, I am heading that direction. I just wanted to clear a few things up. Or announce a few things, I suppose.
1. I am getting married.
2. I am getting married to the only man I have ever loved and have ever imagined myself marrying.
3. Yes, it's Chuck Bahr.
4. Yes, we will be having 3 reception/open houses. You will get an invitation.
5. No, you cannot be informed where we will going on our honeymoon. That is top secret.
6. Yes, we will be married by Jan. 1.
7. Yes, we will accept charitable donations on our behalf because we are poor :) wink, wink.
I love you all. Please note this entry was written with a certain mixture of wit, exhaustion and (primarily) exasperated love. Rock on.
Thanksgiving
11.24.05 (8:53 am) [edit]It's Thanksgiving today - yay. But boo, because Chuck is sick. We went to the emergency room last night and they basically told us nothing. He thinks he might have an ulcer, but unless he starts coughing up blood or finding it in his stool, they can't (or won't?) do anything to help. So, my poor baby is super sick and can't enjoy eating hardly anything at all. What a bummer for Thanksgiving. On a slightly happier note, we are registered for wedding gifts on
JCPenney
http://www.jcpenney.com" title="http://www.jcpenney.com" target="_blank"http://www.jcpenney.com
and Target
http://www.target.com" title="http://www.target.com" target="_blank"http://www.target.com
if you wanted to browse our registry. We will hopefully be having a few open houses/receptions in Minneapolis, Duluth and Michigan in January. We will be sending out annoucements, we hope to see you there!
Break
11.22.05 (10:58 am) [edit]I am so glad for the break. It is going to be great to go home. Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!
http://img.photobucket.com/al...
Animal crackers in my soup!
11.17.05 (7:45 am) [edit]Crackers are a staple. They work well with cheese or peanut butter. They go nicely with soups. They are convenient, easy to carry and some offer whole grains, etc.
My favorite kind is cornbread crackers called home harvest/town house http://www.kelloggs.com/keebl... Which are you favorite kind?
Ritz http://www.nabiscoworld.com/r...
Garden veggie http://www.worldpantry.com/cg...
Wheat thins http://www.nabiscoworld.com/b...
Triscuits http://www.kraftfoods.com/rec...
Saltines http://www.nutritiondata.com/...
Club http://www.kelloggs.com/keebl...
Wheatables http://www.kelloggs.com/keebl...
Cheezits http://brands.keebler.com/che...
Cheese Nips http://www.nabiscoworld.com/c...
Oyster crackers http://www.sbamerica.com/OTC/...
Sad days
11.10.05 (2:54 pm) [edit]My grandpa is really sick. I am sad for him and scared for the family. I wish I could express everything going on in my life right now, but I am afraid to because I don't want the people who read this to judge me. I am stuck between a lot of different people's opinions and I want to please everyone. But I can't, so I feel like not even trying.
good memories
11.02.05 (4:11 pm) [edit]Aaah, the good ol' computer lab. I am holed up in her (hiddden in a far corner next to a wall, nearly invisible) working on a powerpoint presentation. It brings back memories from working here in the lab, before I had an office. Here is my play list for tonight:
Aerosmith, The Beatles, AD/DC, Bon Jovi, Keane and others who I normally don't listen to, which is a nice change of pace!
My project is to teach others how to correctly use commas. Wish me luck!
Three things
10.12.05 (7:49 am) [edit]This past summer/early fall has been a whirlwind of exciting events for me. I feel like I am jumping from clifftop to clifftop, having only a moment to catch my breath and aim for the next goal.
Here are three things I have done/experienced that you might not know about:
1. I got to drive a golf cart at my internship's annual charity ball. I escorted scores of people around the Minneapolis convention center in a ball gown!
2. While rollerblading toward the U of M in Minneapolis a car full of people beaned me in the back of my head/neck with a full water bottle from their moving car. (Ouch!!!)
3. This summer I attended a concert with a sideshow of people performing an odd activity. . . They were hooking wires onto metal studs piercing their skin and hanging from the ceiling. Yeah, it was weird.
Communication is a bust
10.08.05 (10:07 pm) [edit]Sometimes, pretty much no matter what I try, I can't communicate with someone. I can be standing in front of them or sitting next to them and they still don't understand a word I say. I can't blame it on long distance or cultural barriers or different languages. It comes down to the fact that I am, apparantly a very, very poor communicator when I try to talk to someone close to me. I have an easier time talking to strangers or casual acquaintances - there is less to lose in a situation like that. I guess I need to go back to communication 101 classes.
Old pic . . .
10.06.05 (11:31 pm) [edit]Wow - It's funny how much you change in just a few years. This was from 2001 or 2002 (right, Sam?)
And this new one is well, new :)
Grr . . .
10.01.05 (2:19 pm) [edit]Just because I am a girl
Just because I am a Christian
Just because I am nice and empathetic
Just because I haven't stood up for myself in the past
does not mean I am going to allow our student newspaper to be a public relations device. I am not going to shy away from difficult or controversial subjects that deserve coverage.
I mean what I say and it makes me angry for people to think this newspaper is a joke. It makes me angry that people think they can push the paper around and believe it is insignificant.
The same tune
09.24.05 (11:53 pm) [edit]I wish we could all listen to the same song and feel the same emotions:
joy
fear
elation
sorrow
hope
love
confusion
I know there is beauty in diversity - in having people listen to the same melody and have different reaction. But for one song, for one moment I wish the whole world could listen to one song and feel each other deeply. In my mind that would be world peace.
Minneapolis
09.20.05 (10:39 pm) [edit]I love this city . . .
Annies in Dinkytown
My fave place to grab a drink!
The best local coffee shop within ten blocks.
I know you wana come visit me now . . . tell me, tell me, tell me!
The guiding light . . .
09.20.05 (10:14 pm) [edit]Working on the paper thus far has given me such an enlightened perspective on communication. I am so grateful God has given me wisdom and grace to handle several difficult issues lately. The events have taught me the value of straight-forward communication. In the past I used to dance around issues a little bit because I didn't want to hurt people's feelings - even to a point that I never explained how I truly, deeply felt about a situation.
The truth will set you free - indeed.
DIVAS
09.13.05 (9:13 pm) [edit]On Saturday I played the part of a DIVA assistant. It was really cool. Here, let me back up and explain . . .
At my internship our annual largest fundraising event was held on Saturday. We regularly raise $300,000-500,000. I don't know yet how much we raised this year, but more on that later.
My job(s) included transporting guests and performers via golf carts (which went at least 40 mph), getting food/running errands for the four "Divas" who performed and sang as well as other various tasks.
The event was comprised of dinner, dessert and drinks for more than 1,000 people. It also had a silent auction, live auction, reverse auction, guest speakers, four singers with bands and other entertainment. It was formal dress, so I got to dress up pretty :)
Anyway, I had a fantastic time and loved every minute of it (except for the wave of sheer exhaustion that hit when I got home, to the point that I practically passed out in my car!!!)
Overload
09.01.05 (8:10 am) [edit]This time of my life has been incredibly busy, but since I have been typing so much, it seemed reasonable to type an entry :)
I feel kind of bad right now. I did a no-no. I went over my advisor's (for the campus newspaper) head about an issue. After I did that, I was approached by the big boss I had talked to and told that I had not gone through the chain of command properly.
When he first informed me I wanted to cry. Then I wanted to defend myself. Then I wanted to be mad. Then I felt embarrassed.
Finally, I decided it was a good learning experience that is better learned now, then later. And everyone makes mistakes - sometimes I am way too hard on myself. In kind of an irrational way, too.
Well, I know that I would have really over-reacted in the past and beat myself up about what I did. Fortunately, I realize its not a big deal and in all honesty, I haven't been properly trained in how a student organization runs anyway. This is my training time I guess . . . when the rubber hits the road.
Rollerblading and tart
08.29.05 (7:02 am) [edit]Last night I got to rollerblade with Chuck for 45 minutes. The weather in the twin cities is gorgeous right now! I wish I could drag my phone and computer outside and work on stuff.
Saturday night was a blast - I got to make peaches and cream tart from fresh farmer's market peaches and raspberries.
It was delish. I also made and shared homeade pizza (thanks Erin!!!). That was very yummy, too. Hmm, maybe I am writing about food because I am hungry. That would be typical for me.
Life has been very busy - very full. From morning to night - Saturday I finally decided to take a day off and rest/have fun. My parents are great (and so is my sister). I love them so much!
"Healing hearts worldwide"
08.24.05 (6:21 am) [edit]
My internship has been going really well! I feel like I have three jobs right now . . . and basically I do, but they are all fun. Working on the campus newspaper so far has just been lots of organizing and management. At Children's Heartlink http://www.childrensheartlink.org/" title="http://www.childrensheartlink.org/" target="_blank"http://www.childrensheartlink... I have been designing programs and nametags, planning etc. And my job has been to train in as a dispatcher at a limousine/hearst rental and services company.
I have thinking a lot about non-profit organizations. I have come up with three reasons why people donate time or money.
1. guilt - They feel bad because they have stuff and someone doesn't
2. duty - It is their obligation to give to someone "unfortunate"
3. compassion - "a synpathetic consciousness of others' distress and a desire to alleviate it."
Biizzzzzzzzzyyy!
08.20.05 (10:30 am) [edit]Sorry I haven't updated. Here's what I have been doing:
- Training for a new, part-time job that's rather technical.
- Cleaning, organizing the Northern Light office.
- Putting together the campus newspaper (from scratch, basically)
- Going to meetings, interviewing people.
- Going to my new internship, training in there.
- Buying books, doing laundry and eating occasionally.
So, maybe this doesn't look like a lot, but I have been busy. Sorry to everyone I haven't spent time with or called. I love you all :)
Bandaids, anyone?
08.15.05 (10:30 pm) [edit]I had a great day . . . after an icky morning. My car wouldn't start this morning and it was the first day of my internship. So I tried to get it to start, but alas, no luck. Finally I went back to my room to do research about what was wrong. Later I talked to my parents and they helped me figure out it was probably the battery, not the alternator or starter that needed to be fixed.
So I borrowed a friend's car, jumped my car and Chuck and I went around the city comparing prices of batteries. They ranged from 79.99 to the price I paid (50.00) yay! Plus they checked it for free and let us borrow tools. Then we hung out at the Tea Garden which rocked. I recommend the Tazo or Taro shake - it was very yummy!
Then I had a job interview that went very well and then I arranged part of the Northern Light office (heavy lifting, etc.) Then Chuck and I went rollerblading for eight miles (I wanted to see if I could make it to the place where I had applied for a job, and it was pretty easy - it is only about four miles one way).
But I fell twice and got some minor scrapes. So I am now going to look for some bandaids!
Frustrated . . .
08.11.05 (5:48 pm) [edit]Poor customer service is so frustrating! I have an awful financial situation right now because my bank failed to inform me of some information. To make a long story short, I am being reported to credit services and all my other banking accounts are getting closed, my credit card was deactivated and I am frustrated beyond belief! It is a chain of events that wasn't my fault and is continually getting worse.
God please help me make sense of this all!
Back to the mini-apple
08.04.05 (1:05 pm) [edit]Yay! I am heading back to town this weekend. I am excited (also sad to leave family, friends and new friends). I wanted to add some pics of me and my friend Samantha, but the scanner here is broken, so I will have to do that later. For right now I must:
1. return phone calls and e-mails.
2. pack.
3. cry and say good bye.
4. take everything out of my car because it won't fit and try to re-pack it again!
New pics soon!
07.29.05 (4:43 pm) [edit]It's been awhile since I've had the chance to post. My Dad is getting lots better (Thanks for the prayers!!!) and life has settled down a bit. I received this as an e-mail forward and thought it was interesting . . . a little stereotypical, but mostly true. If anyone has a positive e-mail pertaining to men, send it to me and I will post it!
One Flaw in Women
By the time the Lord made woman,
He was into his sixth day of working overtime..
An angel appeared and said,
"Why are you spending so much time on this one?"
And the Lord answered, "Have you seen my spec sheet on her?
She has to be completely washable, but not plastic,
have over 200 movable parts, all replaceable
and able to run on diet coke and leftovers,
have a lap that can hold four children at one time,
have a kiss that can cure anything from a scraped knee to a broken
heart
-and she will do everything
with only two hands."
The angel was astounded at the requirements.
"Only two hands!? No way!
And that's just on the standard model?
That's too much work for one day.
Wait until tomorrow to finish."
But I won't," the Lord protested.
"I am so close to finishing this creation that is so close to my
own
heart.
She already heals herself when she is sick
AND can work 18 hour days."
The angel moved closer and touched the woman.
"But you have made her so soft, Lord."
"She is soft," the Lord agreed,
"but I have also made her tough.
You have no idea what she can endure or accomplish."
"Will she be able to think?", asked the angel.
The Lord replied,
"Not only will she be able to think,
she will be able to reason and negotiate."
The angel then noticed something,
and reaching out, touched the woman's cheek.
"Oops, it looks like you have a leak in this model.
I told you that you were trying to put too much into this one."
"That's not a leak,"
the Lord corrected,
"that's a tear!"
"What's the tear for?" the angel asked.
The Lord said, "The tear is her way of expressing her joy,
her sorrow, her pain, her disappointment, her love,
her loneliness, her grief and her pride."
The angel was impressed.
"You are a genius, Lord.
You thought of everything!
Woman is truly amazing."
And she is!
Women have strengths that amaze men.
They bear hardships and they carry burdens,
but they hold happiness,
love and joy.
They smile when they want to scream.
They sing when they want to cry.
They cry when they are happy
and laugh when they are nervous.
They fight for what they believe in.
They stand up to injustice.
They don't take "no" for an answer
when they believe there is a better solution.
They go without so their family can have.
They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.
They love unconditionally.
They cry when their children excel
and cheer when their friends get awards.
They are happy when they hear about
a birth or a wedding.
Their hearts break when a friend dies.
They grieve at the loss of a family member,
yet they are strong when they think there is no strength left.
They know that a hug and a kiss
can heal a broken heart.
Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.
They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you
to show how much they care about you.
The heart of a woman is what makes the world keep turning.
They bring joy, hope and love.
They have compassion and ideals.
They give moral support to their family and friends.
Women have vital things to say and everything to give.
HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,
IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.
Getting better . . .
07.17.05 (6:02 pm) [edit]My Dad came home from the hospital Thursday night. He will be in rehabilitation for several months until he can use his left arm and leg better. But he is home and that's good news! Thanks for your prayers and consideration - I haven't had much time to update . . . but I will be back in Minnesota around August 6th. Till then . . .
Prayer Request
07.10.05 (8:59 pm) [edit]My Dad had a stroke early Saturday morning and he is in the hospital right now. He will be there for an indeterminate amount of time. He is getting all sorts of tests performed, etc. The doctor's won't say for sure what happened, but he needs to be observed for a while. He lost a lot of feeling and coordination in his left arm, side of his face and left leg. He has regained some of his coordination, but not all. His speech was slurred, but has gotten much better.
Please pray for him and for my family. I am so glad I am home right now!
Also please pray for my friend Sam . . . her dad was admitted on the same day because he was in a bad motorcycle accident. His name is Jim and My Dad's name is Kevin.
War of the words . . .
07.06.05 (8:31 pm) [edit]So last week I saw "War of the Worlds" http://www.waroftheworlds.com" title="http://www.waroftheworlds.com" target="_blank"http://www.waroftheworlds.com... with my family. It was pretty good, with the exception of Tom Cruise (I don't particularily like him a whole lot - just my personal preference.) This week I started at my new/old job?!? Its confusing to go back to someplace I haven't been in a few years!
But being in a workplace has reminded me of how harmful gossip can be . . . its a war of words. Working with over 30+ people, it is difficult not to make opinions based upon first impressions. I also have stayed in touch with a friend who still works and she has updated over the last year to the drama that has happened there. One guy in particular was very cruel to her, so when I met him I instantly disliked him. I had to question that dislike today when I worked with him again, because it is not fair to judge him based on someone else's opinion . . . even if they are a friend I care about.
There has been lots of other gossip flying around and it scares me a bit as to what people are saying about me when I'm not around :( So, I will try to be more careful and not proliferate gossip when I hear it - I will try to stop it if I can.
Friend-finding advice
07.02.05 (1:44 pm) [edit]Sometimes I get stuck in awkward conversations with people - not because I don't like them or don't think they are interesting - sometimes I just feel really shy and don't know what to say. Here are some conversation starters I found that may help me (and you?!?).
1. Do you have any pets? Are you a dog person or a cat person?
2.Where did you get that __(shirt, jeans, bandana) ?
3.Do you like sports? Which ones?
4.Do you ever wish you lived somewhere else?
5.What do you do when you need to blow off stress?
6. What is your favorite outdoor activity?
7.Do you like to read? Who is your favorite author? What's the best book you've read recently?
8.If you knew you would be stranded on a desert island for a year, what three things would you bring with you?
9.Do you belong to any local clubs or organizations? What do you like to do in your spare time? (hobbies, interests)
10.What was your favorite childhood toy?
11.If you could only eat one food, and nothing else, for three days in a row, what would it be?
12.What are your three favorite movies of all time?
13.If you could be a superhero, which would you be and why?
14.If you could only spend $10 on a date night, what would you do?
15.If you could go anywhere in the world, regardless of cost, where would you go?
Yesh!
06.30.05 (12:13 am) [edit](This is a reposting . . . my old blog and comments got deleted . . . sorry to people who made nice comments! Please make them again!)
Yesh! Woo hoo! I got a job for a month at an old place of employment - its for 3 weeks! Yay! God is faithful, thank you God.
One half
06.25.05 (11:40 pm) [edit]She waits wrapped in silence, her lips no longer part the hush. Reflected in her eyes are her longings, her loves, her hopes and dreams. Words are meaningless. She is dying in this sunshine-filled room.
The ones she loves have left for the evening, wiping tears remarking "She's been lonely without him." They are right, of course. She has lived many years as one half of a whole. Now she is one half only.
There is no place for regret in her heart, only acceptance at the beginning of her new existence. It stretches out before her like a field of unpicked strawberrie s glistening with morning dew.
Her eyes close and there she finds a gentle river of darkness and light. She longs to dip her feet in and let the waters sweep her away.
"Not yet," says the Voice. She nods her white head. She will wait. When the Voice tells her it is time, she will sink below that current. The water will capture her, tossing her deeper. Down, down and she will not resist. When the light disappears from above as the river turns dark, she will find peace. When she awakens she will no longer be alone. She will be whole again.
Summer family
06.19.05 (9:16 pm) [edit]I had an awesome day today! I got to spend time with my dad - I made him a Father's Day pie, it was a little runny, but good :) And we spent time with my Grandma and Grandpa Meredith - they are such sweet, humble people. I truly think they are some of the best people I know.
And somewhere in the middle of all that I got to hang out with my NCU friend, Lafe, and his family. They were all incredibly nice and welcoming, I really enjoyed myself!
I think I know some of the best people in the entire world.
To Samantha, with love
06.17.05 (10:52 am) [edit]Being home has been a lesson in the value of friendship. I have been friends with Samantha for over eight years and delightfully so. It is great to know that God blesses us with relationships to help us along in this life.
Nature calls
06.14.05 (2:18 pm) [edit]Being outside or around the great outdoors is so refreshing. It makes me feel the closest to God.
I made pie today - 3 of them . Well, more like 3 1/2 pies. I made 3 big ones and 3 small ones. The small ones add up to like one big one. I am waiting on two jobs - hopefully they will go through soon.
New church
06.12.05 (1:48 pm) [edit]Humph,
This summer I wanted to try going to a smaller church here in Michigan, but there are hardly any smaller churches. I also tried to look up any postmodern churches to attend - actually there are a few. I would really like to check them out and see how they compare with some of the churches in Minneapolis.
Just because Minneapolis is bigger doesn't mean it is on the cutting edge I guess. . ., there are at least three postmodern churches here in K-zoo.
Home again
06.05.05 (5:03 pm) [edit]Well, I am home safely in Michigan - I just woke up from a nine-hour nap. I was up for 25 hours yesterday (5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.). I woke up, finished packing, loaded stuff into a storage place (Thanks Tom!!!), packed my car, packed up some office information for the school newspaper, moved the office equipment, grabbed some other stuff, then bough a BIG coffee caramel cooler to drink and then I drove home!
The weather was great until after Chicago and it got a little rainy, But I stayed very awake the whole time and made it here safely. Thanks for everyone's help and prayers!
Music I listened to in the car
Keane: Hopes and Fears (like, 4-5 times)
Keith Urban: Golden Road (once)
Warren Barfield (once)
I can't remember what else I listened to except for the wind blowing past my lovely open window.
Catch ya later!
Yeah, roadtrip
06.03.05 (4:58 am) [edit]Woo hoo! I am going home to Michigan until August. I will be leaving on Saturday morning. I prayed about going home and God confirmed it twice. I can't ignore signs like that :)
So anyways, good bye Minneapolis . . . Have a great summer.
Myself
05.30.05 (11:47 pm) [edit]It's been a while since I've written. And I am going to do something I rarely do . . . write for myself. Usually I write with an audience in mind, giving them something entertaining and not too personal. But today I just want to be myself and blunt. Usually when I do that I write as though I am talking to God, because I feel in some ways that I am an extension of Him. Not in a weird pantheistic way, but in a "He's my best friend" kind of way. So here goes . . .
God, I am so frustrated with myself. I am such a stubborn person. I say I like change, but in reality I only like small changes. I like going to new restaurants, stuff like that. I don't like big changes because they involve risk. And I hate risk - like I hate failure. My self-worth seems so tied up in whether or not I succeed that when I make mistakes I have felt (more in the past then right now) extreme feelings of worthlessness. I remember in high school when I made mistakes I would yell at myself in the mirror when I got home from school. I would berate myself for "being stupid" or "saying stupid stuff." That is so unhealthy! Gosh! Who does that!
I remember when I was annorexic (yeah, news flash to my family - I struggled with it for a few years) and I felt like the only way I could have control over my life was to control what I ate every second of every day. And I remember when you asked me God, to lay down the "control that food has over your life." I feel like I laid it down - so why do I still struggle with it?!? I still feel on days that I want to never eat again, then on other days I overeat and I don't even know why!
I don't know. I have started to understand that I am a legalist and I am really tough on myself. Not so tough on other people, I try to exhort them and love them, but is it really love if I can't even love myself? I know I have come a long way in the last five years. Just looking back at where I was emotionally and spiritually as a senior in high school amazes me. In some ways it seemed my faith was stronger and maybe it was, but now I am more real about who I am and life in general.
Why am I so afraid to live? I am afraid to be myself. Today I was thinking about it and I pretty much second guess everything I do - especially with guys. I am deathly afraid to be friends with a guy. I have guy friends, but I keep them at a distance under the ruse that I don't want to lead them on. But in reality, I am just unbelieveably afraid of ever falling in love again. Or being friends with a guy at all. I am afraid of rejection. When I am around most people, I clam up and just let them talk because I don't feel comfortable. There are few people that I feel I can be open with or goofy around. I MISS that!!!!! I miss being a stupid girl and acting stupid for the fun of it!!!!!!! I'm not 50 years old!!!!!!
Geesh. Well, that feels better. Thank you God for listening. And thank you for always being faithful, no matter what the circumstances.
Random thoughts
05.24.05 (7:27 pm) [edit]I need to be washing my dishes right now, but writing out my thoughts seems like more fun. So here goes . . .
Life has taken some interesting turns lately. Last night I made some big personal decisions and I really felt God's peace. For the last few years I have felt myself drifting away from the woman I was. I feel that I was a more effective Christian, more loving daughter, better friend and all-around better person a few years ago. Now, I am starting to remember who I am again. And who I want to be. Now I just need to look forward and keep making good decisions even if I get laughed or booed off the stage. Because we will all leave this earth one day and we need to decide what kind of legacy we will leave behind.
Old Friends
05.22.05 (12:58 am) [edit]I just stumbled across a friend from high school/Michigan on MySpace. It was so shocking because I haven't heard from him or of him for years. He was someone I prayed for A LOT because his life was just totally messed up for a long time and he honestly had a lot of problems. He was an off-again, on-again Christian because of all this. He actually was going to stay with my family for awhile when he was homeless. But things didn't work out. Well, I randomly found his profile and I am SO HAPPY! It sounds like he is living for Christ again, found a really cool girlfriend who is a Christian and is on the right track.
Wow, it is sooooo cool to see God move in people's lives!!!! I am really, really excited and happy for Him and for God's purpose. Thank you Jesus for always being in control and knowing whats going on even when we are seriously clueless.
Joining the work force again
05.19.05 (11:07 am) [edit]I am so excited. I am now the proud employee of Michael's. It is an arts and crafts store. I get to work framing paintings and pictures, along with cashiering. I am psyched! Yay!
It will just be a summer job . . . when I met with the manager, I made sure he understood that I could only work full-time during the summer. I didn't want to just quit at the end of the summer and be a jerk.
So, yeah, that's the news. Plus, I went to the Twins game last night with my old roommate from last semester. That was fun - we played against Toronto, so we got to see Corey Koskie - Yay! He is great. Funny thing is, he has the highest batting average and the most home runs this season on his team, but really, his average isn't that great. I guess he's getting pretty old - like 32 or 35. And thats pretty old for a regular player!
Zombies?
05.15.05 (11:03 am) [edit]This is the weirdest, creepiest article I have ever seen! Check it out at
http://65.127.124.62/south_as...
I had to share it because its from the BBC, which I personally believe is one of the more reliable news sources. Oh, to be a Brit. and write for the BBC!!!
My Space
05.14.05 (12:05 pm) [edit]So I went to My Space to build a profile - a friend needed me to post on there so she could have a friend to link to. It's a long story :) So we took funny pics and posted them on my profile. If you look at www.myspace.com and search for me you will find me.
Five points to anyone who can tell me what color shirt/wrap I am wearing in the pics.
So the sun kind of emerged today, but then poked its little head back into hiding. I miss you sun! Come back to tickle me with your glorious rays!
Multiple Personalities
05.10.05 (12:17 am) [edit]`I found out that of all the personality types I am an "Introverted Intuitive Feeling Judging" type. I took a test with a friend last night and found as I read the description it certainly sounded like me! And after I read it, I came to understand two important things about myself.
1. INFJ's are pretty uncommon (or rare, if you will). So this means I am not easily understood. (At least this is what the research indicates.)
2. Some of my patterns of behavior are normal for my personality type. For example, most INFJ's seem to retreat from groups of people at odd or inconsistent intervals. I thought this was a personality disorder on my part (I am not kidding) but according to the research, it is fairly normal. I guess sometimes I feel guilty for wanting to be alone, but now I realize I shouldn't feel guilty.
(excerpt) ". . . at intervals INFJs will suddenly withdraw into themselves, sometimes shutting out even their intimates. This apparent paradox is a necessary escape valve for them, providing both time to rebuild their depleted resources and a filter to prevent the emotional overload to which they are so susceptible . . ."
I encourage you to do the test. Its really interesting. Plus it helped me understand myself better.
Here is one test -
http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp" title="http://www.humanmetrics.com/cgi-win/JTypes2.asp" target="_blank"http://www.humanmetrics.com/c...
Here is a 4-question personality test ---
http://haleonline.com/psychtest/index.php" title="http://haleonline.com/psychtest/index.php" target="_blank"http://haleonline.com/psychte...
Another test --
http://www.personalitypage.com/home.html" title="http://www.personalitypage.com/home.html" target="_blank"http://www.personalitypage.co...
Further explanation of personality types--
http://www.typelogic.com/" title="http://www.typelogic.com/" target="_blank"http://www.typelogic.com/
Looking to the stars
05.08.05 (12:35 pm) [edit]I decorated my new room today and yesterday - I have to say, it rocks. I'm not trying to be prideful or dumb, but I invite you to come look at it! I posted three Van Gogh paintings on my walls to incoporate a "blue" theme into my room. I put up "Starry Night," "Yellow Wheat and Cypresses" and "Cafe' Terrace at Night." They are so beautiful and they make me so happy!
Other blue things I have that make me happy: a beautiful blue and silver blanket my Aunt Sandy bought me for at Christmas two years ago . . . blue jewelry box . . . blue stars I cut out . . . hmm, maybe I need to find more blue things.
RE-design
05.04.05 (5:51 pm) [edit]I'm updating and changing my weblog over the next few days. Hang onto your pants because there are a few days when it may look ugly! But in the end, its beauty will be incomparable.
Krunch time
05.02.05 (8:01 am) [edit]Hmm, I found out last week that theoretically I could fail all my classes and still get the same amount of financial aid next semester. Well, when I already didn't want to study --
that certainly doesn't motivate me to study!!!
But I am studying anyways.
(Insert transitional phrase I can't think of right now :)) I have struggled with what to post on here lately - most of the time I post something meaningful I have learned, or an update on my life or fun facts. But I am a really private person and the things that have gone on in my life in the last few months have been very private. I do appreciate the support my friends and family have offered. It has meant a great deal.
I know it is difficult to have a friend who is heartbroken or grieving - it is difficult to know what to say or do. The philosophy I have tried to live by is just to recognize someone's pain, affirm their feelings and worth then offer to share their burden. It is folly to try to fix the problem or offer trite advice.
Anyways, thanks again for prayer and support - cheers to exams being over!
Forgotten music, art and writing
04.28.05 (3:20 pm) [edit] 
In my opinion the Christian church today is scared of self-expression and creativity. I believe that as Christians we should, in theory, be the most expressive and creative of all people! God is the creator and we are His children . . . so we should be super creative by association, right? It seems that the church runs away from creativity in a quest to stay away from anything questionable or controversial. 
This is a shame. I believe music, art and writing are a fantastic way to reveal more of God. Art crosses language and cultural barriers, as does most music. Writing is something that people associate with intellectualism and therefore agnosticism or atheism, but it isn't so! Some of the most talented writers I know are Christians who (can) use their love of language to further God's glory. Creativity is a gift - let's not squelch it.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart . . ."
04.27.05 (2:35 pm) [edit]
"And lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will guide your path."
Proverbs 3:5
I hope you are doing well when you read this. I think I came to a personal revelation today. I used to think that in times of turmoil just saying the words "God, I will trust you" was enough. But now I see (more and more) that it is a personal decision. I used to just say the words, without the heart behind it.
There are very few people who are not stressed, hurting or alone at this point in the semester. If that is you, I pray that God is with you - strengthening you through this time. In the words of one of my favorite speakers . . . "Life isn't fair, but God is faithful."
Waning desire
04.24.05 (2:04 pm) [edit]Humph.
I know we only have a week left of school, but I have no desire to finish up my school work. I lost the desire to do any school work about a week and a half ago. Yuck. Anyone have any ideas on how to motivate myself?
I have looked up scriptual references about completing my work. I have tried accountability. I just don't want to do it. Plus summer plans are making me upset right now. I strongly dislike having to wait on others to make up their minds in order to choose and finalize my plans :(
Sorry. This turned into a "gripe session." Sigh. Anyways, time to go force feed my brain homework.
Some old, some new . . .
04.22.05 (9:09 am) [edit]All I can think of is cliches right now. Cliches people use in writing (which can be really annoying, quite frankly), cliches in conversation. A lot of cliches are used in consoling a grieving or hurt individual. Here are some . . .
Live and let live.
Don't worry, be happy!
Laughter is the best medicine.
No news is good news.
Truth is relative.
Making a bad decision is better than making no decision at all. (hmm, I wonder about this one)
There will come a day when all the work is finished or when it is too late to finish it. (HA! HA! This one is great for this point in the semester!)
Poor planning on your part does not create an emergency on my part. (A teacher's favorite phrase.)
Haste makes waste.
Popularity (admiration) is not love.
No pain, no gain.
It'll feel better when it stops hurting. (Ahh, my dearest Dad's favorite phrase.)
No guts, no glory.
There is nothing to fear but fear itself.
Life goes on.
When it rains, it pours.
You can't have it all.
If at first you don't succeed, destroy all evidence that suggests you tried. (my fave so far!)
Goodbye is not an easy word to say.
Hmm, lets try it out . . . goodbye. Not so hard.
Yay - pinch hitter
04.20.05 (9:52 pm) [edit]Yay Twins! My roomate and I went to the Twins game tonight. They won 5-4. It was really fun. We got there to the game and the player that is my roomate's favorite wasn't in the lineup :( She was really frustrated because this was the first home game of the season that she has gone to. If you want to see who is her favorite player, check out this link:
Anyways, her favorite player got put in during the 8th inning! Yay! And Joe Mauer and Jacque Jones hit homers. It was a great game - I am glad I went.
Right in front of your nose
04.19.05 (12:16 pm) [edit]The truth, that is. Sometimes it is hard to be patient with yourself or others when they refuse to see truth. You shouldn't point fingers and point out the speck in other people's eyes. You should use each situation to look at yourself and examine your oqn heart.
Being patient and praying for someone to see the truth is the stinking hardest thing ever in the history of the world! But, it is the most loving action you can take toward someone. I am writing this for my own benefit - to reinforce in my heart and mind that being supportive/patient is worth it. Even when it is stinking hard!!!!!!!!! AAAAAHHHHH!!!!
Getting smarter
04.15.05 (11:16 pm) [edit]In my estimation there are several types of "smart." Let me break it down . . .
1. Street smarts - This is when you learn how to avoid certain parts of the neighborhood or how to drive defensively.
2. School/book smarts - Being a bookworm, picking up a lot from your classes - applying what you learn to everyday life and situations.
3. Self smarts - Like Aristotle said "know thyself." Being able to step back from your life and situations to evaluate your decisions and learn from mistakes. Self evaluation is key.
4. People smarts - Knowing how to work through relationships, make people feel comfortable. Being able to relate to people in different walks of life.
Hmm, what is the most important smart? I am not sure, because each of them have different value in different situations. Am I missing some type of smart? (Not me personally - ha ha, but the list?)
Two weeks left!
04.15.05 (9:55 am) [edit]Yay,
Two weeks of school! Right now I have to study for a big test. Check out Erin's page for fun pics :)
Faithful
04.13.05 (10:19 pm) [edit]God is so good and faithful! That's all I have to say right now :)
Seventh Day Slumber and KJ-52
04.11.05 (1:19 pm) [edit]Here is the article I published. Unfortunately, it is not as lucid as I would have liked it to be. I finished writing it at about 2 a.m. Here is a link ro KJ-52, so you can see a picture of him. I'm sure the picture will pay him better homage than my itty bitty picture below!
http://www.kj52.com/" title="http://www.kj52.com/" target="_blank"http://www.kj52.com/
:)
TWO ARTISTS WITH MESSAGE OF HOPE
KJ-52, Seventh Day Slumber showcase their musical chops and poetic prowess
by Hope Andrews
Joseph Rojas knows the meaning of despair.
“I remember when I was broken and empty,” Rojas said. “. . . At the age of 12 years old, I wanted to end my life.”
Rojas was a $400 a day cocaine addict by age 14 and incarcerated more than twenty times in seven years. He can’t remember how many felonies are on his record because he was high every time he was arrested. When Rojas overdosed and lay prostrate in an ambulance, he called out to Christ for the first time in his life. After that Rojas dedicated his life to Jesus, and secondly to his music.
“Jesus offered me a cure to life that drugs couldn’t offer me,” Rojas said.
As the lead singer of the band Seventh Day Slumber, Rojas tours to share a message of hope and salvation. The band’s sophomore release “Once Upon a Shattered Life” flew off the shelves in February as they toured with KJ-52, Hawk Nelson and Falling Up.
Rojas and his band believe their ministry is to share their testimonies. Every member has a story of brokenness they desire to convey.
“Our music is a reflection of all we have been through in our lives,” said SDS guitarist Jeremy Holderfield. “Pain is universal. Everyone’s experienced it. Coming from different backgrounds, all of us have pain in our lives . . . we want to show kids we are not blind to the fact they are hurting.”
The new album deals with themes of pain some Christian bands seem to ignore. Seventh Day Slumber wants to address these issues while offering a message of hope.
“There are kids out there that are dying everyday,” said drummer Ray Fryoux. “You can talk about these things and kids want you to. Christ is the universal solution.”
Seventh Day Slumber so strongly believes Christ is a universal solution they are willing to lose everything the band owns to share that message. The group was invited to play a show in Canada after a recent teen suicide.
The group gladly accepted, but they realized passing through customs would be risky because of Roja’s criminal record. All the equipment and the tour bus could be confiscated because Roja had been convicted of theft during his stint of drug abuse. After much prayer they braved a four-hour interrogation on the border and were allowed to pass.
At the performance, more than 70 high school students turned over their lives to God. The band feels that experience happened because they didn’t hide their faith.
“So many bands wimp out,” Rojas said. “They hide the fact that they serve God because they want to play this club or that. But those kids are looking for a leader. They are looking for someone to stand up and say ‘Yes, I serve God . . . Here’s what He’s done in my life.’ How is anyone going to follow us if we don’t lead?”
Off their new album, the song “Caroline” floats at number two on the official Top 10 Christian hits songs.
“We want a radio hit. Everybody does; this is how we make a living, ya know?” Rojas said. “But we don’t write songs for radio first. We write songs first for God and the kids that need to hear this message. If you stick to that pattern you will always have a number one.”
“Behind the Musik”
Hip hop musician and rapper KJ-52 isn’t a stranger to number one hits, either. His March release “Behind the Musik” has quickly risen on Christian charts. Not unlike SDS, KJ attributes his success to meaningful lyrics that reveal heart-wrenching emotions.
“I thought I could take my audience a little more seriously [with this album],” KJ said. “People had already connected with the music . . . My responsibility as an artist is to make music that is going to changes lives, as opposed to just making good music that people go ‘oh, that’s good music’ and pat you on the back. That is the responsibility God has laid on my heart.”
“Behind the Musik” marks KJ’s third release. This album has become deeply personal for Sorrentino, as this is the first time he has revealed his past. Jonah Sorrentino (as his mother calls him) coped with a broken home and by drinking, using drugs and sleeping around. At the age of fifteen, KJ dedicated his life to God and changed his course.
As a pioneer of Christian hip hop KJ sometimes feels lonely breaking new ground. Some critics liken him to Eminem, and for that reason KJ refuses to listen to any of the other rapper’s CDs.
KJ wants his audience to understand this album is a product of pushing himself to the limit. He produced more than half of the tracks, along with writing all of the lyrics and beats. However, he feels that his talent only takes him so far and God does the rest.
“Honestly, everyday I hold that microphone I count as a privilege,” KJ said. “I should not be doing this. A white dude from Florida who does Christian rap? That’s just not the recipe for success. That just makes me appreciate God even more.”
KJ-52
04.09.05 (9:58 pm) [edit]Here's a pick of KJ-52 aka Jonah. He was really nice. More later :)
Sorry its so stinking big! I reduced it like three times.
Ohmygosh
04.07.05 (10:49 pm) [edit]I had such a cool night . . I got to interview KJ-52 and Seventh Day Slumber (two Christian bands). And seriously, they were so NICE. I was amazed at how inviting, kind and sincere they all were. Wow. And seriously both of them have an amazing testimony of how God has brought them out of drugs, alcohol, etc. God is awesome and He draws us all to Him with His deep, deep love. His love covers time and space and race and culture and every barrier that man can make. Thank you God for being you!!!
Anyways, the bands were just, wow. If you want to read the article I write about them both, the article will come out next Tuesday. Have a good night everyone!
This is Seventh Day Slumber. From left to right . . . Ray (drummer), Joseph (vocals), Solveig (kick butt friend), me :),
Josh (bass) and Jeremy (guitar).
Everybody's Changing . . .
04.06.05 (4:16 pm) [edit]This song fits my mood. Cool music and interesting lyrics. Check it out if you can. It's by Keane.
"Everybody's Changing"
You say you wander your own land
But when I think about it
I don't see how you can
You're aching, you're breaking
And I can see the pain in your eyes
Says everybody's changing
And I don't know why
So little time
Try to understand that I'm
Trying to make a move just to stay in the game
I try to stay awake and remember my name
But everybody's changing
And I don't feel the same
You're gone from here
And soon you will disappear
Fading into beautiful light
Cause everybody's changing
And I don't feel right
So little time
Try to understand that I'm
Trying to make a move just to stay in the game
I try to stay awake and remember my name
But everybody's changing
And I don't feel the same
So little time
Try to understand that I'm
Trying to make a move just to stay in the game
I try to stay awake and remember my name
But everybody's changing
And I don't feel t
I need a mini-vacation
04.06.05 (10:16 am) [edit]25 days until Exams. It is good for me to remember. I am proud of myself because I have been working practically non-stop on homework/newspaper/intern ships/summer job. I have been working harder than I can remember.
It feels good to feel some measure of control over my life . . . like I have choices that can help determine my future. It I make wise ones, then tomorrow looks a little brighter. However, I have a tendency to fall into a trap of self-reliance. So I need to beware of that.
I didn't really have a weekend - i worked the entire time (except for when I was rescuing friends with car problems or having minor car problems of my own :) So now I feel like today should be the weekend and time to rest a litte, but its not at all. Well, here is looking forward to tomorrow. I get to do a few fun things - more on that later.
Till the next time my fingers feel like typing . . .
Thanks to those who are indespensable
04.03.05 (11:20 am) [edit]
This is a shout out to my friends who have supported me through this difficult time in my life! Thank you so much!
Thank you to . . . friends form out of state who spend their phone cards or cell phone minutes to call me :)
Thank you to . . . friends who help me fix my car because I am a clueless girl :)
Thank you to . . . friends have cried with me and let me cry.
Thank you to . . . friends who have been patient and loyal.
Thank you to . . . friends who show me God's goodness. Thank you everyone.
Winds of worship
03.31.05 (12:32 pm) [edit]God is the only one who can help us forgive others. Forgiveness is an act of willpower and an act of worship to God.
Fast food wrap
03.26.05 (12:25 pm) [edit]Here's a homeage to my fast food entry from a few weeks before. I did a little reserch for you all and here are some interesting food links. Check them out:
This site helps you figure out the nutritional information in your Chipotle burrito! Just go to nutrition calculator and build your typical burrito.
This is a great place to break down McDonald's food.
Taco Bell has a nutritional calculator as well. The demand for this type of thing must be pretty high!
http://www.bk.com/" title="http://www.bk.com/" target="_blank"http://www.bk.com/
The ever-popular Burger King publishes all of its nutritional secrets above!
Here is Culvers for you midwest fans. I just ate their last night. Click on menu, then nutrition.
There are lots more sites offering nutritional facts. Look for them on google!
I know what I want
03.21.05 (4:34 pm) [edit]When I look deep in my heart I've found the answer. I want . . .
- To travel
- To create (whether that is to write, paint, etc. )
- To open my home to others. I want to feed them, love them, give people a safe place to belong
- To minister to other women (younger, most likely)
- To support and love a man I respect with all my heart
These goals are not career-focused. So why am I getting a bachelor's in journalism?
Hope
Is it ok to be sad?
03.19.05 (9:26 pm) [edit]I know its ok to be mad, hurt, happy or the other various emotions we experience, but is it ok to be sad and be a Christian?
I think it is, but I feel guilty being sad sometimes. Like, for example, my life isn't bad, so why be sad? What justifies being sad? I don't know the answers to this, but I am seeing more and more that it is the people who I surround myself with that determine my emotions. Or the things I am surrounded by, not just people.
And another thing. I think we should all come with warning labels. Something on our back that says "Easily irritated" or "Insecure, please be gentle" or even "Has a chip on shoulder." Maybe this would make life easier for everyone. And then when someone outgrows that particular thing, they could have a new sign for the next stage in their life. I just think there is a certain joy to getting to know someone really well, but there can also be a level of pain, confusion or frustration at finding out someone is not what you thought they were . . . and that can be unbelievably troubling.
Belated Happy day
03.19.05 (8:20 am) [edit]Today is the day I finally get to celebrate my birthday! Yay!
Some friends are cooking me dinner, etc. tonight. Its really sweet of them. On my real birthday I had lots and lots of homework to do. It kind of stunk. But I got a lot of birthday cards from important people back home. That was really sweet of them!
Thank you family!
The Real World
03.16.05 (5:13 pm) [edit]Isn't if funny how breaking into a real job or profession is so scary? I am looking at summer internships right now and I am thinking back to all my classes here at North Central:
Did I really learn anything? Or did it go in one ear and out the other? As far as an internship goes, I know I would work really, really hard. I am just concerned that my skills won't take me as far as I need to go.
Or is this a normal feeling for everyone who graduates high school/college and goes on to find something professional?
Yikes!
Good, smart man
03.08.05 (5:52 am) [edit]I couldn't pass on displaying this quote.
"I count him braver who overcomes his desires than him who conquers his enemies; for the hardest victory is over self."
--Aristotle
Wow.
fast or fat food?
03.06.05 (11:27 pm) [edit]If you have to eat fast food, I would reccomend stopping at Wendy's. Not only do they have a good dollar menu, they also offer a fresh fruit bowl or cup ( a bit pricey, but worth it if you are road tripping and don't have a real knife to cut up fruit like melons), and alternative sides that are not just french fries. Instead of french fries, you can order chili, side salad, caesar salad, baked potato and other sides.
What a deal! This is not a promo for fast food or for Wendys, but come one . . . who can resist so many choices for a side order? Plus, they also have chocolate milk, etc. for different drinks and good-sized salads for $4-5.
I used to be a Taco Bell girl (they have taco salad and offer decent amounts of tomatoes in their dishes) but now I'm flirting with Wendy's :)
What's your healthy alternative in fast food?
Christ is trustworthy
02.20.05 (9:50 pm) [edit]Jesus is the only one who won't let you down. Sometimes we put our faith ONLY in other people, not in Christ. It is hard to trust God when our experiences of trusting someone are with humans who have a hard time being trustworthy. We are let down so many times that we believe God will do the same. But he's not that way!!! In fact Christ is the only man who will not disappoint, so give Him your heart ladies!
"What Other Man"
I never feel You far away,
When others leave I know You'll stay.
I hear You speak inside my heart,
It's then I'll know we'll never part.
You always give me everything,
And Your love has never left my side.
You've been there in my darkest night,
You're my strength when I want to hide.
And what other man would give every though He has?
Speak with love in what He says?
Lay down His all to set me free?
What other man, would give His life for me?
Only Your love for me will do,
I've known the thrill of loving You.
All of my dreams I hold inside,
I'll give them to You to realize…
You always give me everything,
And Your love has never left my side.
You've been there in my darkest night,
You're my strength when I want to hide.
And what other man would give every though He has?
Speak with love in what He says?
Lay down His all to set me free?
What other man, would give His life for me?
You built me a wall,
To keep me from harm.
When life is cold,
He'll keep me warm.
And what other man would give every though He has?
Speak with love in what He says?
Lay down His all to set me free?
What other man, would give His life for me?
Hope (lessness) gone
02.16.05 (10:19 am) [edit]I realize my last entry seemed very depressing. I'm sorry, I was just wrestling with many emotions. I am better now, thanks to the realization that when what you are living for changes, then you were living for the wrong thing. It is better to have your feet on the rock that never changes.
Why does God forsake those He "loves"?
02.12.05 (5:39 pm) [edit]Right now I am wondering why I am alive. Why people pretend to care about me. Why the people who are supposedly my friends/loved ones reject,forget and plain ignore me.
Oh, well, I guess you can tell who your real friends are by the choices they make.
ugh
02.10.05 (9:22 pm) [edit]Computers are great, most of the time. Right now though, I can't get mine to convert word documents into files I can use. GRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ok, I feel better. Back to working on the Newspaper.
Peace.
Communication issues
02.07.05 (8:39 pm) [edit]I am glad that God made men and women. However, the differences between the two genders can be extremely confusing at times. I was reminded by a friend of mine tonight that communication between genders can be a difficult and timeconsuming process. It rarely goes as such:
Gwen: Hey, Bobby! I want to tell you something important.
Bob: Yeah, ok. I am here giving you my full attention.
Gwen: Yeah, thanks. I know you didn't really mind me interrupting you and the X-box. You haven't been able to play for 6 hours, but I figure, what the heck - you playing is not really that important!
Bob: Of course not! Who cares if I beat Halo 2 in a record 48 hours. So tell me whats going on . . .
Gwen: Well, I just FEEL . . .
Blah, blah, blah . . . you get the point. Both people are unbelieveably considerate in this conversation (or inconsiderate because Gwen thinks that Bobby playing video games is stupid, when it is important to him, so it should be important to her).
Anyways, communicating is hard. But relationships can be worth it if you are willing to be selfless.
word of the day is . . .
02.06.05 (5:05 pm) [edit]the word of today is snowmobile. LEarn it , use it.
This blog is for you . . .
02.04.05 (7:19 pm) [edit]"The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good."
- Samuel Johnson (1709-1784)
How have you treated people around you today?
How will you treat them tomorrow?
I'm gonna buy a big box of thank you cards!
02.03.05 (3:15 pm) [edit]I just came into a little money today/yesterday and I think the first or fifth thing i will purchase is "thank you" cards. My roommate and I just had a conversation last night about the vital importance of dropping people a note to say thanks!
I used to be quite a bit more generous in giving gifts, cards, etc. I think it is because I am strapped for time. If I bought thank you cards, put stamps on them and had them ready to go, I would give them out more often!
So if you feel like I owe you a card (thank you, I'm sorry, greetings) let me know. I have a lot of catching up to do from the last few years! :)
Smarts vs. faith
01.30.05 (9:39 pm) [edit]I am taking a very thought-provoking class that is stretching my mind. It is Media and a Christian worldview or something like that (long title = hard to remember). But the class basically teaches us how journalistic ethics and Christianity can coincide. I believe they can quite nicely.
I do not feel that belief in God means we must abandon our reason and intellect. This quote sums up the feeling:
"I do not feel obliged to believe that the same God who has endowed us with sense, reason, and intellect has intended us to forgo their use."
- Galileo Galilei
Here I am quoting people again! But really, what a great quote. I have always struggled with faith and my brain. For many years I simply relied upon faith, but when it came to apologetics, I could never answer a question about Christ. However, I think I pointed many people toward Christ with unswerving faith.
After awhile, though, my intellect had to catch up with my faith. You see, my mom is faith-based and my dad is intellect-based. Sometimes they switch, they have for years at a time. But always they are polar opposites. That is probably why I appreciate that my bf and I have differing perspectives sometimes. It helps me see the other side.
Anyways, I digress. Faith and brainpower can go together.
Who's got tact?
01.28.05 (2:49 pm) [edit]"Truth separated from tact is a very bad thing"
-- Chuck Bahr
Jan. 28, 2005
In regards to a post he made on a friend's website
Yeah, tact is important. So is truth. Can we balance the two? I hope so.
More beautiful than this world . . .
01.26.05 (2:46 pm) [edit]I think when I look at this world, it can be difficult to see beauty. But if I take the time to put on rose-colored glasses, everything can look different. Rose-colored glasses, to me, is the attitude that comes after prayer. After I pray and spend time with Christ, I can look at the world and people in a different light. I can experience God's beauty, which surpasses any in this world, and see people as the reflection of Christ's beauty.
We sang this in chapel . . .
Wonderful so wonderful is your unfailing love
Your cross is spoken mercy over me
No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no heart can fully know
How glorious, how beautiful you are
Beautiful one I love you
Beautiful one I adore
Beautiful one my soul must sing
Powerful so powerful your glory fills the skies
Your mighty works displayed for all to see
The beauty of your majesty awakes my heart to sing
How marvelous, how wonderful you are
You’ve opened my eyes to your wonders anew
Captured my heart with this love
‘Cause nothing on earth is as beautiful as you
My soul my soul must sing(x3)
Beautiful one
Running
01.25.05 (3:39 pm) [edit]This weekend was the massive undertaking of great amounts of reading, writing and little sleep. I am still not caught up on sleep, but I am happy I got what I did completed!
For anyone not in Minnesota right now, it is veeeeery warm and nice outside! Who knew the snow would start melting today and it would be nearly 40-45 degrees?
Other updates? Hmm, well Lafe taught me how to pick a lock with a hanger a few minutes ago. If anyone has talked to my family recently, let them know I love and miss them.
And last but not least, sometimes I feel very frustrated with who I am inside. I feel like I have so many problems and few solutions. I was praying today that God would teach me how to trust Him. And I was wondering "what is the action of trust? Is it an action or a feeling? Then I remembered Proverbs 3:5
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will guide your paths."
I realized that trusting Him means I need to acknowledge him in all areas of my life! I cannot shut Him out of one area or another, I must let him into all my life. That also means I need to be unafraid to tell others that He is the reason for my "ways." He is the reason for the decisions I make, the life choices I decide, the way I treat others. I have always thought of trust as being an intangible, unattainable thing, but maybe it will become more real to me if I can put it into practice.
Here is a quote I ran across that inspired me today - i hope it inspires someone else.
"It has been my experience that folks who have no vices
have very few virtues."
Abraham Lincoln
Production Weekend
01.21.05 (3:56 pm) [edit]It is time to start producing for the newspaper here at school. This weekend marks our first newspaper for this semester! It will be a simple eight page edition with no outside writers. Only the main editors will be filling the pages . . . that means me!!! (and James, Andy, and Jamaal) I hope hope hope our content and design will pick up speed this semester. I think it will, now that we know what we are doing.
Anyways, here is my two thumbs up to good friends and family who are supportive and loving. It is great when you have people who support you.