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
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Camping Trip, Part 2
I meant to right more about the trip yesterday but I never got around to it.
The first night at the campsite we made smores. They were wonderful.
After a very cold night of half-sleeping (and waking up with a wet sleeping bag and frost outside), we made pancakes. I had basically told everyone I love eating pancakes on camping trips so I was making some. They were sooooo good! K ended up making a lot of them while I made coffee (in my new french press coffee maker I bought). Then I did the dishes. . . and burned my finger. That was the only time (miraculously) that I got upset the whole weekend. Anyway, so we had really awesome pancakes. And coffee.
Then we started on our hike. We ended up going in the opposite direction that we went the day before, up the dirt road that went up the mountain. We stopped plenty of times for pictures, of course. The higher we went up, the more we saw amazing views of the snow-covered mountains in the distance. It was just absolutely amazing. I am just always in awe when I'm in the mountains. I can't even describe it.
Ok so now on to the weirdest part of the trip. After stopping for a bite to eat we went a little further and ended up running into a truck that looked wrecked upset against the side of the mountain. The drivers-side window was partially down and there were clothes scattered about. Then, we found a wallet with drivers license, credit cards, etc in a pair of pants. That's when we started getting freaked a bit. The license plates were off the truck and some electrical wires were ripped out and on the ground. After that we booked it down the mountain. We tried calling 911 but didn't really have any reception. We kept going over all these horrible scenarios in our heads about what happened. It was just so weird to us that this guys wallet was there, the plates were gone. . .
So we made it down (oh and in between that I apparently was getting a little dehydrated so had to walk a little slower than I had been) and 3 people went to go find a cop or national park ranger to let them know what we found. They found a county sheriff that came up. J went up with him to show him where it was. So we're just sitting around the camp, still a little freaked, Q is all worried about J. . then we see another county sheriff SUV drive by. That made a little more freaked out. We're convinced we're going to find out there's a dead body up there or something. Then we see J walking down the road. He was told that the police knew the truck was up there it was just impossible to get up there because of the snow (there was still snow on parts of the road) and the guy that drove up there is some crazy drunk that had been in and out of jail. No one had reported him missing or anything but they also don't know if he's alive. Or where he is. It still all sounds a little weird. I honestly wouldn't be surprised if he died up there somewhere.
And then another twist, the sheriff's SUV got stuck up there and J was in the passenger seat with a perfect view of the steep cliff to the right. That's why the other SUV came.
We did find out that the truck was 4.6 miles from our site. So we hiked about 9 miles that day. And J hiked more than that!
After that craziness, we just relaxed more more and ate some dinner. I made smores with Godiva chocolate (leave it to me to have a luxurious campfire food).
We got going fairly early the next morning. Most of us were awake by 7 am. We packed up and headed towards Rocky Mountain National Park. It costs $20 per car to get in but it is so worth it. Just a little ways in, we saw a herd of elk so of course we stopped to get pictures. Originally we thought it would take about 1 1/2 hours to get through the park. That turned into about 3 because of the stops. There are just so many amazing places to stop and get pictures. At one point in the distance we saw a moose. We got to the highest point in the park (about 12,000 ft or so) and walked up to an even higher point. It was super windy and from there we saw a storm move in over the mountain tops. It was so, so cool. After that we tried not to stop as much. It was getting late. It wasn't too big of a deal for most of us but NF had to go to work at 6 am so he was the one who needed to get back. He slept most of the way back.
Even the drive from the park to Denver is amazing. It's just so beautiful. We did get to stop at my old house to get the blankets and comforter I left there. I felt a little bad about it because it was getting late but I really wanted my blankets! :-)
It was really hard going to the house and leave Denver. I was in tears. When I left almost a year ago, everything was so uncertain. I was already uneasy about my relationship with D and felt like I was making a huge mistake.
But then even though it was hard for me to leave Denver, I got to feeling better. . .maybe this really is where I'm supposed to be. At least right now. I am to the point now that I think I would disappointed if I ended up leaving. I really like the group of people I've been getting to know. And I do want to continue getting to know my NF. Next Saturday we're either going to go to the zoo or the Laura Ingalls Wilder cabin near Independence. He wanted to make sure I wasn't working that day (which is another issue . . . I wasn't scheduled at all this weekend, I'm getting shorted on my hours) so we could do something.
Then this Saturday we're going to go see a movie and before that we're going to a potluck at his church. Which I admit, I am kind of nervous about. I will feel like I'm on display. And given how the last time I was on display at someone's church it makes me nervous. I'm going to try not to worry about it and just see what happens.
Oh and I heard about a job opportunity at the Kansas United Methodist Conference office. Q works there and told me about it. So I sent in my resume and she's going to talk to her boss about me. I think it would be really cool. I heard about it right after I started freaking out about work on Tuesday. So I'm going to be praying about that. . .we'll see.
NF is pretty much hooked on Colorado....he's too much of a Kansas boy to move there probably, but he's already talking about someday getting a cabin there ;-)
The first night at the campsite we made smores. They were wonderful.
After a very cold night of half-sleeping (and waking up with a wet sleeping bag and frost outside), we made pancakes. I had basically told everyone I love eating pancakes on camping trips so I was making some. They were sooooo good! K ended up making a lot of them while I made coffee (in my new french press coffee maker I bought). Then I did the dishes. . . and burned my finger. That was the only time (miraculously) that I got upset the whole weekend. Anyway, so we had really awesome pancakes. And coffee.
Then we started on our hike. We ended up going in the opposite direction that we went the day before, up the dirt road that went up the mountain. We stopped plenty of times for pictures, of course. The higher we went up, the more we saw amazing views of the snow-covered mountains in the distance. It was just absolutely amazing. I am just always in awe when I'm in the mountains. I can't even describe it.
Ok so now on to the weirdest part of the trip. After stopping for a bite to eat we went a little further and ended up running into a truck that looked wrecked upset against the side of the mountain. The drivers-side window was partially down and there were clothes scattered about. Then, we found a wallet with drivers license, credit cards, etc in a pair of pants. That's when we started getting freaked a bit. The license plates were off the truck and some electrical wires were ripped out and on the ground. After that we booked it down the mountain. We tried calling 911 but didn't really have any reception. We kept going over all these horrible scenarios in our heads about what happened. It was just so weird to us that this guys wallet was there, the plates were gone. . .
So we made it down (oh and in between that I apparently was getting a little dehydrated so had to walk a little slower than I had been) and 3 people went to go find a cop or national park ranger to let them know what we found. They found a county sheriff that came up. J went up with him to show him where it was. So we're just sitting around the camp, still a little freaked, Q is all worried about J. . then we see another county sheriff SUV drive by. That made a little more freaked out. We're convinced we're going to find out there's a dead body up there or something. Then we see J walking down the road. He was told that the police knew the truck was up there it was just impossible to get up there because of the snow (there was still snow on parts of the road) and the guy that drove up there is some crazy drunk that had been in and out of jail. No one had reported him missing or anything but they also don't know if he's alive. Or where he is. It still all sounds a little weird. I honestly wouldn't be surprised if he died up there somewhere.
And then another twist, the sheriff's SUV got stuck up there and J was in the passenger seat with a perfect view of the steep cliff to the right. That's why the other SUV came.
We did find out that the truck was 4.6 miles from our site. So we hiked about 9 miles that day. And J hiked more than that!
After that craziness, we just relaxed more more and ate some dinner. I made smores with Godiva chocolate (leave it to me to have a luxurious campfire food).
We got going fairly early the next morning. Most of us were awake by 7 am. We packed up and headed towards Rocky Mountain National Park. It costs $20 per car to get in but it is so worth it. Just a little ways in, we saw a herd of elk so of course we stopped to get pictures. Originally we thought it would take about 1 1/2 hours to get through the park. That turned into about 3 because of the stops. There are just so many amazing places to stop and get pictures. At one point in the distance we saw a moose. We got to the highest point in the park (about 12,000 ft or so) and walked up to an even higher point. It was super windy and from there we saw a storm move in over the mountain tops. It was so, so cool. After that we tried not to stop as much. It was getting late. It wasn't too big of a deal for most of us but NF had to go to work at 6 am so he was the one who needed to get back. He slept most of the way back.
Even the drive from the park to Denver is amazing. It's just so beautiful. We did get to stop at my old house to get the blankets and comforter I left there. I felt a little bad about it because it was getting late but I really wanted my blankets! :-)
It was really hard going to the house and leave Denver. I was in tears. When I left almost a year ago, everything was so uncertain. I was already uneasy about my relationship with D and felt like I was making a huge mistake.
But then even though it was hard for me to leave Denver, I got to feeling better. . .maybe this really is where I'm supposed to be. At least right now. I am to the point now that I think I would disappointed if I ended up leaving. I really like the group of people I've been getting to know. And I do want to continue getting to know my NF. Next Saturday we're either going to go to the zoo or the Laura Ingalls Wilder cabin near Independence. He wanted to make sure I wasn't working that day (which is another issue . . . I wasn't scheduled at all this weekend, I'm getting shorted on my hours) so we could do something.
Then this Saturday we're going to go see a movie and before that we're going to a potluck at his church. Which I admit, I am kind of nervous about. I will feel like I'm on display. And given how the last time I was on display at someone's church it makes me nervous. I'm going to try not to worry about it and just see what happens.
Oh and I heard about a job opportunity at the Kansas United Methodist Conference office. Q works there and told me about it. So I sent in my resume and she's going to talk to her boss about me. I think it would be really cool. I heard about it right after I started freaking out about work on Tuesday. So I'm going to be praying about that. . .we'll see.
NF is pretty much hooked on Colorado....he's too much of a Kansas boy to move there probably, but he's already talking about someday getting a cabin there ;-)
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Camping Trip, Part I
This weekend was absolutely amazing. There is so much to tell!
Six people went on the trip. Q and J are the married couple. Then there is me, JC, K, and, of course, NF. We headed out Friday around 5 and made it to Denver, Colorado around 1 am. The drive was cool. I rode with NF. One of the coolest parts about the drive was the storm we saw as we drove through western Kansas. The clouds were so dark and there was a lot of lightning and rain. It was amazing. I was just staring out the window in amazement.
We drove to Denver and got there around 1 am. We had reserved a hotel room but there was a mix-up (either on the part of the hotel or expedia) and so we actually didn't have a room. Luckily we got the money refunded and there was another hotel right next door. It was kinda funny trying to figure out where everyone was going to sleep. We finally had to make the married people sleep in separate beds. I don't think it would've worked to make me sleep with one of the guys; that might have been a little awkward. Although I think I could've handled sleeping on the floor a little better, Q liked to roll over to the middle a lot. Oh well.
Then we headed west out of Denver (it was a little difficult I must admit). The mountains were absolutely beautiful. I was pointing out everything to see of course, like Red Rocks, the 7 million dollar home that was used in Charlie's Angels, and Mt. Evans (that would be the mountain I saw everytime I went to church). We got to drive through the Eisenhower Tunnel which is awesome. You look back and it's like "whoa, we just drove through the mountain."
We drove around for a bit just west of Rocky Mountain National Park to find a campsite. We ended up at a very backwoods one. We set up near a nice little creek that wasn't too far from the road. There were only a few other campers we saw. It was very nice and secluded. The only downside? No toilet facilities. It's been a long time since I had to pee in the woods. It's not exactly my favorite thing to have to do. Anyway. . . .we got to build a fire and cook hot dogs and smores. We even made fettucini alfredo.
The first day we went for a little hike. It was interesting. There weren't any trails really set up so it took awhile to figure out where to go. We had to go across the creek (the water was FREEZING) so we had to find a way across without falling in. However, on the way back that didn't end up working so well for poor K. He decided to just sit in the water. So then instead of trying the same way the rest of us looked for another way across and ended just having to wade across. Oh my gosh let me tell you it was horrible. I went first and just rushed as quickly as possible which was hard because of the rocks! Then, of course, everyone else had to do it too (especially the guys) so they wouldn't look like wimps. Hehehe. I got plenty of battle wounds. I have a few cuts on my leg and a huge bruise from climbing over a log and scraping my leg up against a broken off branch. I'm proud of my battle wounds. They remind me I am a tough chick. The nights were pretty cold I must say. We woke up to frost on the tent both mornings. It was wonderful waking up to the fire though. I always waited until it was going before I woke up ;-)
It was just so wonderful being there. Nice and relaxing. . .and absolutely gorgeous. The drive just from Denver to the campsite was remarkable. And it was fun watching NF taking pictures (he let someone else drive for awhile); he hadn't been there before.
I am always just so amazed when I see the mountains. I can't even describe the feeling I get. I am just in awe and can't speak.
I will write more later. There is a very interesting story to come!!!
Six people went on the trip. Q and J are the married couple. Then there is me, JC, K, and, of course, NF. We headed out Friday around 5 and made it to Denver, Colorado around 1 am. The drive was cool. I rode with NF. One of the coolest parts about the drive was the storm we saw as we drove through western Kansas. The clouds were so dark and there was a lot of lightning and rain. It was amazing. I was just staring out the window in amazement.
We drove to Denver and got there around 1 am. We had reserved a hotel room but there was a mix-up (either on the part of the hotel or expedia) and so we actually didn't have a room. Luckily we got the money refunded and there was another hotel right next door. It was kinda funny trying to figure out where everyone was going to sleep. We finally had to make the married people sleep in separate beds. I don't think it would've worked to make me sleep with one of the guys; that might have been a little awkward. Although I think I could've handled sleeping on the floor a little better, Q liked to roll over to the middle a lot. Oh well.
Then we headed west out of Denver (it was a little difficult I must admit). The mountains were absolutely beautiful. I was pointing out everything to see of course, like Red Rocks, the 7 million dollar home that was used in Charlie's Angels, and Mt. Evans (that would be the mountain I saw everytime I went to church). We got to drive through the Eisenhower Tunnel which is awesome. You look back and it's like "whoa, we just drove through the mountain."
We drove around for a bit just west of Rocky Mountain National Park to find a campsite. We ended up at a very backwoods one. We set up near a nice little creek that wasn't too far from the road. There were only a few other campers we saw. It was very nice and secluded. The only downside? No toilet facilities. It's been a long time since I had to pee in the woods. It's not exactly my favorite thing to have to do. Anyway. . . .we got to build a fire and cook hot dogs and smores. We even made fettucini alfredo.
The first day we went for a little hike. It was interesting. There weren't any trails really set up so it took awhile to figure out where to go. We had to go across the creek (the water was FREEZING) so we had to find a way across without falling in. However, on the way back that didn't end up working so well for poor K. He decided to just sit in the water. So then instead of trying the same way the rest of us looked for another way across and ended just having to wade across. Oh my gosh let me tell you it was horrible. I went first and just rushed as quickly as possible which was hard because of the rocks! Then, of course, everyone else had to do it too (especially the guys) so they wouldn't look like wimps. Hehehe. I got plenty of battle wounds. I have a few cuts on my leg and a huge bruise from climbing over a log and scraping my leg up against a broken off branch. I'm proud of my battle wounds. They remind me I am a tough chick. The nights were pretty cold I must say. We woke up to frost on the tent both mornings. It was wonderful waking up to the fire though. I always waited until it was going before I woke up ;-)
It was just so wonderful being there. Nice and relaxing. . .and absolutely gorgeous. The drive just from Denver to the campsite was remarkable. And it was fun watching NF taking pictures (he let someone else drive for awhile); he hadn't been there before.
I am always just so amazed when I see the mountains. I can't even describe the feeling I get. I am just in awe and can't speak.
I will write more later. There is a very interesting story to come!!!
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Much anticipated
After about 4 long, long years something amazing has happened.
Maroon 5 released their sophmore album "It Won't Be Soon Before Long."
I love it.
Maroon 5 released their sophmore album "It Won't Be Soon Before Long."
I love it.
Worlds Apart
This song has been running through my mind all afternoon. Especially the part about "the mercy that covers me." I think this is just about my favorite song ever. This is like a Psalm to me.
Worlds Apart (Jars of Clay)
I am the only one to blame for this
Somehow it all adds up the same
Soaring on the wings of selfish pride
I flew too high and like Icarus I collide
With a world I try so hard to leave behind
To rid myself of all but love, To give and die
To turn away and not become
Another nail to pierce the skin of one who loves
More deeply than the oceans,
More abundant than the tears
Of a world embracing every heartache
Can I be the one to sacrifice
Or grip the spear and watch the blood and water flow
To love you - take my world apart
To need you - I am on my knees
To love you - take my world apart
To need you - broken on my knees
All said and done I stand alone
Amongst remains of a life I should not own
It takes all I am to believe
In the mercy that covers me
Did you really have to die for me?
All I am for all you are
Because what I need and what I believe are worlds apart
And I pray, To love you - take my world apart
To need you - I am on my knees
To love you - take my world apart
To need you - broken on my knees
I look beyond the empty cross
Forgetting what my life has cost
And wipe away the crimson stains
And dull the nails that still remains
More and more I need you now,
I owe you more each passing hour
The battle between grace and pride
I gave up not so long ago
So steal my heart and take the pain
And wash the feet and cleanse my pride
Take the selfish, take the weak,
And all the things I cannot hide
Take my beauty, take my tears
The sin and soaked heart and make it yours
Take my world all apart
Take it now, take it now
And serve the ones that I despise
Speak the words I can't deny
Watch the world I used to love
Fall to dust and thrown away
I look beyond the empty cross
Forgetting what my life has cost
So wipe away the crimson stains
And dull the nails that still remain
So steal my heart and take the pain
Take the selfish, take the weak
And all the things I cannot hide
Take my beauty, take my tears
Take my world apart, take my world apart
I pray, I pray, I pray Take my world apart
Worlds Apart (Jars of Clay)
I am the only one to blame for this
Somehow it all adds up the same
Soaring on the wings of selfish pride
I flew too high and like Icarus I collide
With a world I try so hard to leave behind
To rid myself of all but love, To give and die
To turn away and not become
Another nail to pierce the skin of one who loves
More deeply than the oceans,
More abundant than the tears
Of a world embracing every heartache
Can I be the one to sacrifice
Or grip the spear and watch the blood and water flow
To love you - take my world apart
To need you - I am on my knees
To love you - take my world apart
To need you - broken on my knees
All said and done I stand alone
Amongst remains of a life I should not own
It takes all I am to believe
In the mercy that covers me
Did you really have to die for me?
All I am for all you are
Because what I need and what I believe are worlds apart
And I pray, To love you - take my world apart
To need you - I am on my knees
To love you - take my world apart
To need you - broken on my knees
I look beyond the empty cross
Forgetting what my life has cost
And wipe away the crimson stains
And dull the nails that still remains
More and more I need you now,
I owe you more each passing hour
The battle between grace and pride
I gave up not so long ago
So steal my heart and take the pain
And wash the feet and cleanse my pride
Take the selfish, take the weak,
And all the things I cannot hide
Take my beauty, take my tears
The sin and soaked heart and make it yours
Take my world all apart
Take it now, take it now
And serve the ones that I despise
Speak the words I can't deny
Watch the world I used to love
Fall to dust and thrown away
I look beyond the empty cross
Forgetting what my life has cost
So wipe away the crimson stains
And dull the nails that still remain
So steal my heart and take the pain
Take the selfish, take the weak
And all the things I cannot hide
Take my beauty, take my tears
Take my world apart, take my world apart
I pray, I pray, I pray Take my world apart
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