Today around 4:35 I got a text message that asked if I was still at work. I replied and said yes, but that I really wasn't doing anything (it's a little slow right now). The next thing I hear is the receptionist telling someone where my office is. Then I heard a familiar voice say thank you and surprise! NF walks through the door! And not empty-handed. He brought me a cranberry limade from Sonic.
His softball game was cancelled (it has basically been raining for 4 days straight) so he came up to help me pack! Ok so by the time it was all said and done, we only packed for a bit, ate dinner, and then watched TV. He had to leave early because he has to work tomorrow, but he's coming back tomorrow to help me move!
It was a wonderful ending to my work week. I think soon I may have to come up with something besides NF to describe him. . .we'll see. ;-)
Friday, June 29, 2007
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
New job!
Today was my first day at my new job! It went really well. There wasn't a lot of things to do today; I did get high on some markers, though.
Ok I'll explain: I had to outline all the districts in the Kansas conferences on a huge map. I started out with a Sharpie (the gateway) and then continued with one of those markers that smell like fruit. It was a great afternoon. . . ;-)
I was a little freaked; I met the Bishop pretty much first thing. He seems like a nice guy. I probably won't have to really work with him too much but the fundraising campaign is a big deal that he is very excited about so I do have the clearance to tell him if I need anything, probably especially if I'm not getting what I need from other people. Tomorrow he is headed to France with some youth to go to some camp and Paris. Lucky bas. . . .I mean, how wonderful for him. Ha! ;-)
Last night before Bible study, NF and I got together. He asked me to do something most girls only dream about: help him shop. Although he did a good job of picking stuff out for himself, I did pick out a shirt for him that I really hope I get to see him in soon. :)
There were a few instances where I was getting a little weak in the knees. . .I won't go into details but . . . yeah. . . I really like the way things are going.
I will tell more about the job as it goes. We're meeting with the head of the firm that is consulting for the fundraising campaign. And at some point I get to go shopping for office supplies. I love shopping for office supplies.
Ok I'll explain: I had to outline all the districts in the Kansas conferences on a huge map. I started out with a Sharpie (the gateway) and then continued with one of those markers that smell like fruit. It was a great afternoon. . . ;-)
I was a little freaked; I met the Bishop pretty much first thing. He seems like a nice guy. I probably won't have to really work with him too much but the fundraising campaign is a big deal that he is very excited about so I do have the clearance to tell him if I need anything, probably especially if I'm not getting what I need from other people. Tomorrow he is headed to France with some youth to go to some camp and Paris. Lucky bas. . . .I mean, how wonderful for him. Ha! ;-)
Last night before Bible study, NF and I got together. He asked me to do something most girls only dream about: help him shop. Although he did a good job of picking stuff out for himself, I did pick out a shirt for him that I really hope I get to see him in soon. :)
There were a few instances where I was getting a little weak in the knees. . .I won't go into details but . . . yeah. . . I really like the way things are going.
I will tell more about the job as it goes. We're meeting with the head of the firm that is consulting for the fundraising campaign. And at some point I get to go shopping for office supplies. I love shopping for office supplies.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Friday, June 22, 2007
Thinking for myself
A few weeks ago I got wind of the fact that a professor at CCU did not get his contract renewed for the next year. There was a very big uproar about it from the students (and even some faculty I think even if they don't admit to it). I never had the prof, but he was one of the ones at the forefront of getting the Global Studies major established a few years back.
According to his students he is very dedicated to making sure Christian students are encouraged to think, to form their own opinions, and challenge traditional thoughts and ideas. Which, according to CCU, is something they are dedicated to as well.
However, this past year they hired a new president. A new president who has served in Congress (both the House and Senate) and is very much a Republican. And in his time there, he has outlined Strategic Objectives that, after reading them, I am upset by the blatent political implications that seems to say to be a Christian means to be a Republican. While I don't disagree with all of what is included there is one point specifically that I do disagree with.
-Honor Christ and share the love of Christ on campus and around the world (ok)
-Teach students to trust the Bible, live holy lives and be evangelists (ok, as long as students aren't expected to just accept everything without being able to questions things as well)
-Be a magnet for outstanding students and prepare them for positions of significant leadership in the church, business, government and professions by offering an excellent education in strategic disciplines (ok)
-Teach students how to learn (good idea)
-Teach students how to think for themselves (even a better idea except apparently the faculty are not encouraged to do the same things)
-Teach students how to speak and write clearly and effectively (wonderful, great idea)
-Give students significant opportunities to serve our Lord while they are at CCU and to help them develop a lifetime habit of such service (ok again, not a bad idea, no problem)
-Impact our culture in support of traditional family values, sanctity of life, compassion for the poor, Biblical view of human nature, limited government, personal freedom, free markets, natural law, original intent of constitution and Western civilization (HOLD ON a SEC!!!)
-Be seekers of truth (wonderful! we all should be)
-Debunk "spent ideas" and those who traffic in them (I'm going to have to look into exactly what this means)
-Ask God to multiply our time and ability to the glory of His great name (fine, ok)
-Be a servant of the Church (as long as the Church is being a servant to God)
-Become a great university (ha! good luck with that one)
For quite some time, I have realized that I am leaning more and more to the left. Right now, I am still in the middle when it comes to politics. But I realize that when it comes to my faith I am more concerned with the problems that are going on in Africa, the problems in my own country, and many of the injustices that I see happening everyday that I believe Jesus would be concerned with. And that Jesus has called me (and everyone) to be concerned with.
I have no problem whatsoever with Christians being involved in politics. But I definitely believe that to be a Christian does not mean I have to be a republican or democrat. I feel like the statement I said hold on too, points directly to the idea that christianity is synonomous with the GOP. And if you look at a lot of the students coming into the university, they are not necessarily in that mindset. They recognize that although capitalism is an economic system that works, it has definitely been abused...it has caused the marginalization of people, it has contributed to the rabid consumerism (which I wholeheartedly admit that I fall victim to still and probably always will), and a lot of other things that I don't think Christ is really all that happy with.
I think many people today are questioning and challenging what "traditional" values are. Is it all about a family that consists of a mom, dad, kids, and a dog? Is it only all about certain things you do or don't do? Things are changing. And students coming in are aware of it. People running things, however, continue to fight it, convinced that if we challenge any seemingly American traditional values, we are challenging Christianity itself.
One of the problems the new president had with the professor had to do with capitalism. While the professor said time and time again he was not a socialist or anything, he also challenged some of the basic ideas of captialism. It seems that anyone who studies in depth GLOBAL STUDIES will start becoming more aware of what is going on in the world and realize, while we are a very powerful country, we are not always right. America (and everyone in it) contributes to the problem that plague our cities, our nation, and our world. Do I think that as an economic system, capitalism works? Yes. Do I think that it's good that people have the opportunity to better there lives by starting businesses and things like that? Yes. But I also know people have a responsibility to care about the people around them that aren't that fortunate.
I think the problem I have (as well as others) the most with the strategic objectives is the overtly political statements which point directly to Republican ideals. I have no problem with Christians being either Republican or Democrat but I don't like that there is the assumption Christians have to be a certain one or they aren't really Christians.
And I don't like that the university says they want to teach students to think for themselves and seek truth only to turn around and fire someone that is encouraging students to do just that.
It's like "seek truth" (as long as it's our version of it), and "think for yourself," (as long as it is the way we think).
And if you are not a conservative, Republican Christian, we don't want you here.
According to his students he is very dedicated to making sure Christian students are encouraged to think, to form their own opinions, and challenge traditional thoughts and ideas. Which, according to CCU, is something they are dedicated to as well.
However, this past year they hired a new president. A new president who has served in Congress (both the House and Senate) and is very much a Republican. And in his time there, he has outlined Strategic Objectives that, after reading them, I am upset by the blatent political implications that seems to say to be a Christian means to be a Republican. While I don't disagree with all of what is included there is one point specifically that I do disagree with.
-Honor Christ and share the love of Christ on campus and around the world (ok)
-Teach students to trust the Bible, live holy lives and be evangelists (ok, as long as students aren't expected to just accept everything without being able to questions things as well)
-Be a magnet for outstanding students and prepare them for positions of significant leadership in the church, business, government and professions by offering an excellent education in strategic disciplines (ok)
-Teach students how to learn (good idea)
-Teach students how to think for themselves (even a better idea except apparently the faculty are not encouraged to do the same things)
-Teach students how to speak and write clearly and effectively (wonderful, great idea)
-Give students significant opportunities to serve our Lord while they are at CCU and to help them develop a lifetime habit of such service (ok again, not a bad idea, no problem)
-Impact our culture in support of traditional family values, sanctity of life, compassion for the poor, Biblical view of human nature, limited government, personal freedom, free markets, natural law, original intent of constitution and Western civilization (HOLD ON a SEC!!!)
-Be seekers of truth (wonderful! we all should be)
-Debunk "spent ideas" and those who traffic in them (I'm going to have to look into exactly what this means)
-Ask God to multiply our time and ability to the glory of His great name (fine, ok)
-Be a servant of the Church (as long as the Church is being a servant to God)
-Become a great university (ha! good luck with that one)
For quite some time, I have realized that I am leaning more and more to the left. Right now, I am still in the middle when it comes to politics. But I realize that when it comes to my faith I am more concerned with the problems that are going on in Africa, the problems in my own country, and many of the injustices that I see happening everyday that I believe Jesus would be concerned with. And that Jesus has called me (and everyone) to be concerned with.
I have no problem whatsoever with Christians being involved in politics. But I definitely believe that to be a Christian does not mean I have to be a republican or democrat. I feel like the statement I said hold on too, points directly to the idea that christianity is synonomous with the GOP. And if you look at a lot of the students coming into the university, they are not necessarily in that mindset. They recognize that although capitalism is an economic system that works, it has definitely been abused...it has caused the marginalization of people, it has contributed to the rabid consumerism (which I wholeheartedly admit that I fall victim to still and probably always will), and a lot of other things that I don't think Christ is really all that happy with.
I think many people today are questioning and challenging what "traditional" values are. Is it all about a family that consists of a mom, dad, kids, and a dog? Is it only all about certain things you do or don't do? Things are changing. And students coming in are aware of it. People running things, however, continue to fight it, convinced that if we challenge any seemingly American traditional values, we are challenging Christianity itself.
One of the problems the new president had with the professor had to do with capitalism. While the professor said time and time again he was not a socialist or anything, he also challenged some of the basic ideas of captialism. It seems that anyone who studies in depth GLOBAL STUDIES will start becoming more aware of what is going on in the world and realize, while we are a very powerful country, we are not always right. America (and everyone in it) contributes to the problem that plague our cities, our nation, and our world. Do I think that as an economic system, capitalism works? Yes. Do I think that it's good that people have the opportunity to better there lives by starting businesses and things like that? Yes. But I also know people have a responsibility to care about the people around them that aren't that fortunate.
I think the problem I have (as well as others) the most with the strategic objectives is the overtly political statements which point directly to Republican ideals. I have no problem with Christians being either Republican or Democrat but I don't like that there is the assumption Christians have to be a certain one or they aren't really Christians.
And I don't like that the university says they want to teach students to think for themselves and seek truth only to turn around and fire someone that is encouraging students to do just that.
It's like "seek truth" (as long as it's our version of it), and "think for yourself," (as long as it is the way we think).
And if you are not a conservative, Republican Christian, we don't want you here.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
A few tidbits
NF got a taste of what I'm like when I watch a baseball game. Last night I got to watch the Cardinals/Royals game and it was a nailbiter. It went into extra innings (14 in all) and was late so I didn't stay up but I was on the phone with him and he experienced many yells and shreaks. He is a Royals fan. Which is fine. . .we'll have a fun little rivalry going. A while back I told him if he ever watches a game with me, he'll think I'm crazy; he said he'll like it :-)
Last week before Bible study we ended up playing catch. I think he liked to see that I can throw pretty well too.
My parents are visiting the first week of July. We are going to go to NF's church's 4th of July picnic. . .which means for the first time I will meet people from his church. Last night he brought up the topic of how I wanted to be introduced (he said he'd been thinking all afternoon of how to bring it up so it didn't sound cheesy or anything, I thought that was cute). I told him I wasn't really sure because we're obviously more than just friends but we haven't reached the boyfriend/girlfriend stage yet. He agreed (whew! at least we're both on the same page with that). When I see him tomorrow I think I'm going to tell him that he should just introduce me as Jodie and if necessary tell people we're dating. Because even though we're not seeing anyone else and we both think (and hope) it's leading to being serious, it's not yet. And there are a few things that I feel he needs to know about me and accept before I consider him my boyfriend. I have them written down and I am trying to just pray about it all and not worry. If he is "it" then I know he will be able to accept those things about me that I am always worried will be difficult to accept. But I know I really can't worry about it. There are still a lot of things I don't know about him either.
It's still so weird to me. I mean, two months ago I was going to move. I was going to get the hell out of here. And now. . . .here I am staying. And I am ok with it. Two days from now will signal my one-year mark of living here. One year ago I was so excited. It amazes me how quickly the excitement faded and how wrong I ended up being. But now with all that has happened over the last few months and weeks, I can't even say that I hate that I moved here. Granted I still hate what happened, I am still a bit scared. . .but I am more hopeful now.
After today, only one more day at the cable company. I am so ready! Then I'm stuck two more stinking days at the hotel. I'm hoping I'll get away with leaving a bit early because someone else is coming in mid-morning, I think, which is absolutely ridiculous.
I don't know for sure if I'll get away with having only one job. I am going to give it a month or so to get a break and get settled into the new job before I make a decision.
Last week before Bible study we ended up playing catch. I think he liked to see that I can throw pretty well too.
My parents are visiting the first week of July. We are going to go to NF's church's 4th of July picnic. . .which means for the first time I will meet people from his church. Last night he brought up the topic of how I wanted to be introduced (he said he'd been thinking all afternoon of how to bring it up so it didn't sound cheesy or anything, I thought that was cute). I told him I wasn't really sure because we're obviously more than just friends but we haven't reached the boyfriend/girlfriend stage yet. He agreed (whew! at least we're both on the same page with that). When I see him tomorrow I think I'm going to tell him that he should just introduce me as Jodie and if necessary tell people we're dating. Because even though we're not seeing anyone else and we both think (and hope) it's leading to being serious, it's not yet. And there are a few things that I feel he needs to know about me and accept before I consider him my boyfriend. I have them written down and I am trying to just pray about it all and not worry. If he is "it" then I know he will be able to accept those things about me that I am always worried will be difficult to accept. But I know I really can't worry about it. There are still a lot of things I don't know about him either.
It's still so weird to me. I mean, two months ago I was going to move. I was going to get the hell out of here. And now. . . .here I am staying. And I am ok with it. Two days from now will signal my one-year mark of living here. One year ago I was so excited. It amazes me how quickly the excitement faded and how wrong I ended up being. But now with all that has happened over the last few months and weeks, I can't even say that I hate that I moved here. Granted I still hate what happened, I am still a bit scared. . .but I am more hopeful now.
After today, only one more day at the cable company. I am so ready! Then I'm stuck two more stinking days at the hotel. I'm hoping I'll get away with leaving a bit early because someone else is coming in mid-morning, I think, which is absolutely ridiculous.
I don't know for sure if I'll get away with having only one job. I am going to give it a month or so to get a break and get settled into the new job before I make a decision.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Monday, June 18, 2007
Busy city life or quiet country?
I meant to write about this when NF and I went to the Little House on the Prairie but never got around to it.
NF lives in a very small town. And he always wants to live in a small town or in the country. I told him that the idea of living in a small town is still hard for me probably because I've never lived in a small town that I've actually liked. He asked what it would take for me to live in a small town. . .I said it would depend on the town itself. It would have to be a nice small town that still has something going for it and it would have to be near a larger town or city so when I get into a mood that I need a faster pace or need to go shopping, I can. Also the people I'd be around would make a difference. And schools and opportunities available. If I'm lucky enough to have kids, I want them to be able to have the chance to do things they want to.
I thought more about it later and realized that I am more likely to live in the country or something rather than live in a city now. I have realized that I am still not too crazy about Wichita. I love going to visit NF in his little town (although his town falls into the category of the falling apart type small town I would not like). The drive is so relaxing; it's a wonderful drive through the country. And I have gotten to drive through Winfield a few times and I actually really like it. For a comparison, it's about the size of Vandalia, IL. A little nicer than Van though.
So I thought about it further. . .I want to live somewhere someday that I can have enough land to have a garden. And a horse. And maybe even chickens so I can have fresh eggs. The more I am in the city (even a smaller city like Wichita), the more I realize I want, as the Dixie Chicks song says, "Wide Open Spaces."
One of the things I really like about NF is the fact that he likes old houses. And instead of actually having a real old house that has to be renovated he wants to build a house that looks old which is fine with me. I've always said that if I can't have an actual old house, I want one that just looks old. So sometimes I start daydreaming about our big new/old house with a wrap-around house in the country with a couple of horses (he likes them too!) and our chickens. And a dog and maybe a few cats. I'll have a room where I can paint and sew and work on crazy projects I get in my head. Obviously there will still be things about the country or a small town that will be annoying and stressful and I'll sometimes wish I was still in the city, but I like the idea of being away from all the distractions that living in a city can bring. I still don't let myself daydream too much about who I will necessarily share the house in the country with. Who knows about that.
I wonder what matters more to me, where I live or who I'm around and living with? Home is such a fluid concept for me. And I don't know if it's just me or if it's more of a girl thing or what, but I think home for me isn't going to necessarily have to do completely with where I am. Of course, I'm going to want to like the town and place I live . . . oh I don't know. Who knows.
I do know though...I really want to live somewhere that I can have a garden. And a place where I can always look out my window and be able to see the stars. And a storm when its rolling in. And a basement for the eventual tornado that will come blasting through ;-)
NF lives in a very small town. And he always wants to live in a small town or in the country. I told him that the idea of living in a small town is still hard for me probably because I've never lived in a small town that I've actually liked. He asked what it would take for me to live in a small town. . .I said it would depend on the town itself. It would have to be a nice small town that still has something going for it and it would have to be near a larger town or city so when I get into a mood that I need a faster pace or need to go shopping, I can. Also the people I'd be around would make a difference. And schools and opportunities available. If I'm lucky enough to have kids, I want them to be able to have the chance to do things they want to.
I thought more about it later and realized that I am more likely to live in the country or something rather than live in a city now. I have realized that I am still not too crazy about Wichita. I love going to visit NF in his little town (although his town falls into the category of the falling apart type small town I would not like). The drive is so relaxing; it's a wonderful drive through the country. And I have gotten to drive through Winfield a few times and I actually really like it. For a comparison, it's about the size of Vandalia, IL. A little nicer than Van though.
So I thought about it further. . .I want to live somewhere someday that I can have enough land to have a garden. And a horse. And maybe even chickens so I can have fresh eggs. The more I am in the city (even a smaller city like Wichita), the more I realize I want, as the Dixie Chicks song says, "Wide Open Spaces."
One of the things I really like about NF is the fact that he likes old houses. And instead of actually having a real old house that has to be renovated he wants to build a house that looks old which is fine with me. I've always said that if I can't have an actual old house, I want one that just looks old. So sometimes I start daydreaming about our big new/old house with a wrap-around house in the country with a couple of horses (he likes them too!) and our chickens. And a dog and maybe a few cats. I'll have a room where I can paint and sew and work on crazy projects I get in my head. Obviously there will still be things about the country or a small town that will be annoying and stressful and I'll sometimes wish I was still in the city, but I like the idea of being away from all the distractions that living in a city can bring. I still don't let myself daydream too much about who I will necessarily share the house in the country with. Who knows about that.
I wonder what matters more to me, where I live or who I'm around and living with? Home is such a fluid concept for me. And I don't know if it's just me or if it's more of a girl thing or what, but I think home for me isn't going to necessarily have to do completely with where I am. Of course, I'm going to want to like the town and place I live . . . oh I don't know. Who knows.
I do know though...I really want to live somewhere that I can have a garden. And a place where I can always look out my window and be able to see the stars. And a storm when its rolling in. And a basement for the eventual tornado that will come blasting through ;-)
New hobby
On Thursday I decided that I wanted to start painting. My artistic side was itching to get out and try something new.
So I did. I went to Michaels, bought some canvases and paper, paint, brushes, and a book about painting and I painted.
The first thing I painted was just a cool flower. It looks a little weird but I like it. I will take a picture and post it. I also tried a butterfly but that didn't turn out so well. The shape looks like a butterfly but I couldn't get the colors the way I wanted them. I'm going to have to work on that. It looks like it belongs in a children's book. Which then got me to thinking about writing a children's book :-)
My brother said he'll send me a book to help me with my drawing. I am not that great at it but I think if I practiced I could be. Also I want to do some abstract type stuff. I think I will like painting. In the dining area (that will be table-less) of my new apartment I think I'm going to set up a space to work. There is so much I want to try. I do need to remember to start off small. And just take my time and practice. I need to figure out how to get colors the way I want them.
I also think I'm going to go ahead and get a camera so I can take pictures. I think photography is still my first artistic love. And my little non-digital point and shoot camera isn't cutting it.
So I did. I went to Michaels, bought some canvases and paper, paint, brushes, and a book about painting and I painted.
The first thing I painted was just a cool flower. It looks a little weird but I like it. I will take a picture and post it. I also tried a butterfly but that didn't turn out so well. The shape looks like a butterfly but I couldn't get the colors the way I wanted them. I'm going to have to work on that. It looks like it belongs in a children's book. Which then got me to thinking about writing a children's book :-)
My brother said he'll send me a book to help me with my drawing. I am not that great at it but I think if I practiced I could be. Also I want to do some abstract type stuff. I think I will like painting. In the dining area (that will be table-less) of my new apartment I think I'm going to set up a space to work. There is so much I want to try. I do need to remember to start off small. And just take my time and practice. I need to figure out how to get colors the way I want them.
I also think I'm going to go ahead and get a camera so I can take pictures. I think photography is still my first artistic love. And my little non-digital point and shoot camera isn't cutting it.
Freak out
Instead of cramming everything into one post I'm going to break it up.
First, the crappy thing.
On Friday I freaked out. First, I was tired all day at work. I didn't feel good. And for some reason I got it into my head that NF was purposely not really talking to me. I knew it was ridiculous. I knew that, in reality, our schedules will make it difficult to see and talk to each other at times. I also knew that we've only known each other for 2 months, right now it's still nothing really serious, and there is nothing saying we have to talk everyday. Or even a lot. But, even though I knew it was ridiculous, I let that doubt get into my head and let it become something a lot bigger than it really was. I was supposed to go to his softball game on Friday night but didn't. I think I managed to get myself down enough that I made myself sick.
I hate that. I hate when I starting letting fear and doubt overtake what I know is true. And it happened in the course of a day! And it wasn't just doubt about NF, it was fear and doubt about the new job. . .and my whole life here. My whole life that still feels so uncertain. But. . .what's crazy about it is I just feel like God is constantly showing me he's taking care of me and he has something in store for me here. I am so excited about my job (albeit a tad impatient to get started so I can get out of the cable company and hotel) and all the possibilities that my life could hold.
But, I have to admit, that I am still a little scared. Scared that I won't be able to do well at my new job. . .scared I'm just going to end up with my heart broken again. . .But I will continue to try and remember that God has me in the palm of his hand. And he really does love me. And has something for me. I will not let being scared keep me from the possibility of experiencing something great.
First, the crappy thing.
On Friday I freaked out. First, I was tired all day at work. I didn't feel good. And for some reason I got it into my head that NF was purposely not really talking to me. I knew it was ridiculous. I knew that, in reality, our schedules will make it difficult to see and talk to each other at times. I also knew that we've only known each other for 2 months, right now it's still nothing really serious, and there is nothing saying we have to talk everyday. Or even a lot. But, even though I knew it was ridiculous, I let that doubt get into my head and let it become something a lot bigger than it really was. I was supposed to go to his softball game on Friday night but didn't. I think I managed to get myself down enough that I made myself sick.
I hate that. I hate when I starting letting fear and doubt overtake what I know is true. And it happened in the course of a day! And it wasn't just doubt about NF, it was fear and doubt about the new job. . .and my whole life here. My whole life that still feels so uncertain. But. . .what's crazy about it is I just feel like God is constantly showing me he's taking care of me and he has something in store for me here. I am so excited about my job (albeit a tad impatient to get started so I can get out of the cable company and hotel) and all the possibilities that my life could hold.
But, I have to admit, that I am still a little scared. Scared that I won't be able to do well at my new job. . .scared I'm just going to end up with my heart broken again. . .But I will continue to try and remember that God has me in the palm of his hand. And he really does love me. And has something for me. I will not let being scared keep me from the possibility of experiencing something great.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
More details
I start my new job on the 26th. I've already let the temp agency know my last day at my job will be on the 22nd. And I turned in my two weeks at the hotel. I may still work a 2nd job but I'm going to find one that is closer to my apartment and where I'll be working (I can walk to work; I'm so excited!) I am basically going to be managing the campaign office, taking care of scheduling, and contacting churches.
I've already called my apartment complex and they are going to draw up the lease and everything so I can get that all settled. I'll just be moving into a larger apartment. I'm going to have so much space I won't know what to do with myself!
I am just so excited. And also even though I have a reason (NF) I want to stay now, I now have something to keep me here besides to see what is going to happen with my NF. OH! Btw, even though I only had one guess I will tell you, my NF is the guy in the orange shirt on the far right hand side. I think that was the only picture he wasn't standing right next to me. :-) Hopefully soon I'll be able to post more pics of the trip and my outing on Saturday when I get mine developed.
I am so excited about all this. In case you didn't already figure this out.
The other day I wrote in my journal, "God, if there's anyway I can know about a job before the 15th, that woud be great." Is it just me, or do you think maybe, just maybe, God answered a prayer here? And maybe, just maybe there is some kind of plan going on?
:-)
I've already called my apartment complex and they are going to draw up the lease and everything so I can get that all settled. I'll just be moving into a larger apartment. I'm going to have so much space I won't know what to do with myself!
I am just so excited. And also even though I have a reason (NF) I want to stay now, I now have something to keep me here besides to see what is going to happen with my NF. OH! Btw, even though I only had one guess I will tell you, my NF is the guy in the orange shirt on the far right hand side. I think that was the only picture he wasn't standing right next to me. :-) Hopefully soon I'll be able to post more pics of the trip and my outing on Saturday when I get mine developed.
I am so excited about all this. In case you didn't already figure this out.
The other day I wrote in my journal, "God, if there's anyway I can know about a job before the 15th, that woud be great." Is it just me, or do you think maybe, just maybe, God answered a prayer here? And maybe, just maybe there is some kind of plan going on?
:-)
YES
I GOT THE JOB AT THE CONFERENCE OFFICE!!!!!!
I will be getting paid more than I am now, be able to get health insurance, and it's right by where I live!!!!
AND this means that I know that I can sign a one-year lease and get a month's rent free!! WOOHOO!
I am so excited!!!!!!!
I will be getting paid more than I am now, be able to get health insurance, and it's right by where I live!!!!
AND this means that I know that I can sign a one-year lease and get a month's rent free!! WOOHOO!
I am so excited!!!!!!!
Monday, June 11, 2007
Wonderful day
I woke up bright and early before 6:30 am on Saturday. I think I may have been a little excited because if you know me, you know getting up early is not my greatest strength. I got ready, hit the road, enjoyed a gorgeous drive through the country and got to NF's apartment by 8:30. We made sandwiches for our lunch, through in a few snacks and the fresh pineapple I brought, and started on our journey towards Independence.
First, we stopped in Elk Falls, Kansas. NF's grandparents had been teachers there and always drove across an old bridge to get to town. You can't drive across the bridge now, but we can still walk across it. I was a little freaked out but I did it! (although I'm not as scared of bridges as I used to be, they still make me a little nervous). There is a little waterfall on the river along with an old stone wall that used to be part of a mill. It was really neat to look at and see all the trees growing along the river. Across the bridge there were a bunch of wild tiger lilies growing. In fact in a lot of places all over town they were growing.
Also in Elk Falls (the main reason we were there) is a little pottery shop (Elk Falls Pottery). NF loves pottery and his church had ordered a special communion plate and chalice from the shop so he wanted to check it out. I loved it. The store was just this little rustic place set back from the road and the couple who ran it were so nice. The pottery was absolutely gorgeous. There were mugs, ornaments, pots, dishes, vases, pitchers and cup sets. . . .I ended up with a little vase that is truly unique. When they glazed and fired it, it was supposed to be this raspberry color but it ended up being a soft sage green color! I like that I picked the one that was still beautiful but didn't quite turn out as planned. I definitely have to go back and do some Christmas shopping. I had to use the restroom while I was there and the lady took me into their house (my favorite part about it was the fact it had all this old-fashioned furniture and two Apple computers!) and the bathroom was like an outhouse! In the house! And it didn't stink at all! It amazed me. And to think people were probably amazed at indoor plumbing.
We ended up spending about an hour at the shop then we continued on to the Little House on the Prairie. The Prairie Days celebration was going on, which isn't a huge thing but they had food, a few people selling some antiques and books, a character contest, and some entertainment. And fresh lemonade!!! It was SO good! They had a gift shop and we browsed around there. NF bought me a guidebook to all the Little House sites you can visit and a mug. And guess where the mug was made? That's right! Elk Falls Pottery! NF saw it and thought it looked familiar. After we looked around there, we of course, looked at the replica of the cabin. It is so tiny; it's hard to believe it probably was actually that small. I didn't think it was but when you think about the fact the trees were only a certain size and at one point the roof was just the wagon canvas top, it probably really was very small. Also on the site, is a turn-of-the-century post office (it was moved from its original location) and an old schoolhouse! I love old schoolhouses. On display in the schoolhouse was an original copy of the first publication of Little House on the Prairie and Farmer Boy. It made me think that I want to try to get my hands on an original copy of one of more of the books someday.
After we left, we went into Independence to see Dr. Tann's grave; he was a doctor that treated the Ingalls family when they were sick. After that we headed back to NF's apartment and just chilled out for a few hours and watched a movie. Then we went to see Pirates 3. I liked it a lot. I decided that I really like the theatre down near him even better than the ones up here based solely on the popcorn. The popcorn is so much better! :-)
After the movie we watched TV for a little bit before I left. It may have been because I was tired, but I didn't want to leave right away. I had such a great time. And it was this nice, quiet, relaxing day. And I like that we are both good with that. We don't have to do some super exciting fast-paced thing.
Tonight is Bible study. . .this afternoon I have my two interviews and then I'll give him a call and we're going to Chipotle. He suggested it last night, I love the way his mind works ;-)
I also got to thinking about some other stuff that I will write about later.
First, we stopped in Elk Falls, Kansas. NF's grandparents had been teachers there and always drove across an old bridge to get to town. You can't drive across the bridge now, but we can still walk across it. I was a little freaked out but I did it! (although I'm not as scared of bridges as I used to be, they still make me a little nervous). There is a little waterfall on the river along with an old stone wall that used to be part of a mill. It was really neat to look at and see all the trees growing along the river. Across the bridge there were a bunch of wild tiger lilies growing. In fact in a lot of places all over town they were growing.
Also in Elk Falls (the main reason we were there) is a little pottery shop (Elk Falls Pottery). NF loves pottery and his church had ordered a special communion plate and chalice from the shop so he wanted to check it out. I loved it. The store was just this little rustic place set back from the road and the couple who ran it were so nice. The pottery was absolutely gorgeous. There were mugs, ornaments, pots, dishes, vases, pitchers and cup sets. . . .I ended up with a little vase that is truly unique. When they glazed and fired it, it was supposed to be this raspberry color but it ended up being a soft sage green color! I like that I picked the one that was still beautiful but didn't quite turn out as planned. I definitely have to go back and do some Christmas shopping. I had to use the restroom while I was there and the lady took me into their house (my favorite part about it was the fact it had all this old-fashioned furniture and two Apple computers!) and the bathroom was like an outhouse! In the house! And it didn't stink at all! It amazed me. And to think people were probably amazed at indoor plumbing.
We ended up spending about an hour at the shop then we continued on to the Little House on the Prairie. The Prairie Days celebration was going on, which isn't a huge thing but they had food, a few people selling some antiques and books, a character contest, and some entertainment. And fresh lemonade!!! It was SO good! They had a gift shop and we browsed around there. NF bought me a guidebook to all the Little House sites you can visit and a mug. And guess where the mug was made? That's right! Elk Falls Pottery! NF saw it and thought it looked familiar. After we looked around there, we of course, looked at the replica of the cabin. It is so tiny; it's hard to believe it probably was actually that small. I didn't think it was but when you think about the fact the trees were only a certain size and at one point the roof was just the wagon canvas top, it probably really was very small. Also on the site, is a turn-of-the-century post office (it was moved from its original location) and an old schoolhouse! I love old schoolhouses. On display in the schoolhouse was an original copy of the first publication of Little House on the Prairie and Farmer Boy. It made me think that I want to try to get my hands on an original copy of one of more of the books someday.
After we left, we went into Independence to see Dr. Tann's grave; he was a doctor that treated the Ingalls family when they were sick. After that we headed back to NF's apartment and just chilled out for a few hours and watched a movie. Then we went to see Pirates 3. I liked it a lot. I decided that I really like the theatre down near him even better than the ones up here based solely on the popcorn. The popcorn is so much better! :-)
After the movie we watched TV for a little bit before I left. It may have been because I was tired, but I didn't want to leave right away. I had such a great time. And it was this nice, quiet, relaxing day. And I like that we are both good with that. We don't have to do some super exciting fast-paced thing.
Tonight is Bible study. . .this afternoon I have my two interviews and then I'll give him a call and we're going to Chipotle. He suggested it last night, I love the way his mind works ;-)
I also got to thinking about some other stuff that I will write about later.
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Job interview
I have a job interview on Monday!!!! It's for the fundraising administrative assistant job.
And I got a call about another job at one of the universities in town. They called to see if I was still interested and said they would get in touch with me sometime this week about setting up an interview!
And I got a call about another job at one of the universities in town. They called to see if I was still interested and said they would get in touch with me sometime this week about setting up an interview!
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Update
I will get a few more guesses before I reveal anything ;-)
So just a couple of things: first, NF and I are going to Independence, KS to go to Prairie Days at the Laura Ingalls Wilder cabin on Saturday!!! Then we're either going to go see Pirates 3 or hang out with some Bible study people. We're just making it a day-long date. I'm excited.
Secondly, there are two (TWO!) United Methodist conference office jobs I have applied for. I'm hoping because of my connection at the office (the other girl in the photo) and the fact my dad is a UM pastor I may have a good chance at either. One is a secretarial position for the communications department and the other is an administrative assistant for a huge fundraising campaign for the conference. It sounds like they are wanting to find someone for the 2nd job fairly quickly; the first one they are accepting resumes until the end of June. . .so who knows when that would actually start. I also know the 1st position would probably pay around what I"m getting now so I would still have to work a second job. I don't know what the other job would pay. It's also just a 17 month or so position. I have a feeling it would pay more though.
So I'm hopeful for either. My hours have been cut (because they hired too many people) at the hotel and this cable company job is getting old. . .I really want something different. And more stable. We'll see!!
Also. . .. .I'm going to move into a different apartment at the end of the month. Worse comes to worse, I'll just move into a bigger apartment at the same complex. I don't know if I'll have time to look for a different complex. Plus, if I got a job at the conference office, it's like right behind my apartment. I could just walk to work! Wouldn't that be awesome?!
Ok that's my quick update. Don't forget to guess ;-)
So just a couple of things: first, NF and I are going to Independence, KS to go to Prairie Days at the Laura Ingalls Wilder cabin on Saturday!!! Then we're either going to go see Pirates 3 or hang out with some Bible study people. We're just making it a day-long date. I'm excited.
Secondly, there are two (TWO!) United Methodist conference office jobs I have applied for. I'm hoping because of my connection at the office (the other girl in the photo) and the fact my dad is a UM pastor I may have a good chance at either. One is a secretarial position for the communications department and the other is an administrative assistant for a huge fundraising campaign for the conference. It sounds like they are wanting to find someone for the 2nd job fairly quickly; the first one they are accepting resumes until the end of June. . .so who knows when that would actually start. I also know the 1st position would probably pay around what I"m getting now so I would still have to work a second job. I don't know what the other job would pay. It's also just a 17 month or so position. I have a feeling it would pay more though.
So I'm hopeful for either. My hours have been cut (because they hired too many people) at the hotel and this cable company job is getting old. . .I really want something different. And more stable. We'll see!!
Also. . .. .I'm going to move into a different apartment at the end of the month. Worse comes to worse, I'll just move into a bigger apartment at the same complex. I don't know if I'll have time to look for a different complex. Plus, if I got a job at the conference office, it's like right behind my apartment. I could just walk to work! Wouldn't that be awesome?!
Ok that's my quick update. Don't forget to guess ;-)
Monday, June 04, 2007
Contest
Let's have a little contest.
In the picture below, who is my NF?
The winner will receive an all expense paid trip to. . . .wait a minute, I can't even go on an all expense paid trip to anywhere.
So you'll just have to be ok with being really smart and a good guesser. ;-)
I'll post more pics of the trip when I get some more.
In the picture below, who is my NF?
The winner will receive an all expense paid trip to. . . .wait a minute, I can't even go on an all expense paid trip to anywhere.
So you'll just have to be ok with being really smart and a good guesser. ;-)
I'll post more pics of the trip when I get some more.
Sunday, June 03, 2007
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