This Is Who I am

Forever and a day...

2009-02-04T15:02:00.000-08:00

I know I haven't posted anything forever and a day. I've been busy! lol I did want to post a few pictures from my sister's recent visit with the kids. They are so cute!

My favorite Christmas Song

2008-12-11T15:21:00.000-08:00

O Holy Night

O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of our dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
'Til He appear'd and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels' voices!

O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,
Here come the wise men from Orient land.
The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friend.

He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before Him lowly bend!
Behold your King, Behold your King.

Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother;
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name.

Christ is the Lord! O praise His Name forever,
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
His power and glory evermore proclaim.

I am still thankful

2008-12-11T15:06:00.000-08:00

A few weeks after thanksgiving and I’m still feeling very thankful/grateful for all of my blessings. This is a good thing! I think we can get spoiled and forget that there are people in this world and even in our own neighborhoods without proper food, clothing, or shelter. This year I asked my vendors to make donations on my behalf or to donate my corporate schmoozing gifts to shelters. I really honestly don’t need anything. I’d much rather feed a family a holiday dinner for $15 than to receive a box of chocolates that I know I’ll regret eating later on anyway. So this year while you’re out in the shuffle and bustle of the Holiday season – Throw some change in the salvation army bucket, buy a gift for a child in need or donate to your local food bank. You really can make a difference.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-04T09:56:00.000-08:00

It’s been a while since I updated my blog. I know, I know! Bad Jeni :o) The last few weeks have been pretty busy with work but I was very blessed to be able to go visit Denver for the Thanksgiving Holiday. I know it’s a little late but I thought I’d list the things that I’m thankful fro this year.

God – I am so thankful to know God and have a relationship with Him. He is the center of my life and without Him I have nothing. I am so blessed to find hope in this hopeless world with Christ.

My family – I have the most amazing family on the planet!! I love you all! I also am the proud aunt of THE CUTEST KIDS IN THE UNIVERSE. They really are :o)

My church Family – I am blessed to have been adopted here in Sacramento by some pretty incredible people.

My friends – I have some of the best friends in the world. All have been hand selected by God and placed in my life.

My country – While I may not agree with the current political climate in this country, I feel blessed to live in one where we have the choice and right to change or screw things up.

My health – there are so many people who aren’t well right now. I thank God daily that my family and I are happy and healthy!

My job – sometimes it’s busy and sometime it’s a pain but I really have been blessed with favor from God at my job. I’m also very thankful just to HAVE a job in this economy.

My car – It’s paid for :o)

My condo – I have a renter who pays on time!

My apartment in Sac – I have a garage :o)

I had a great time in Denver! I’m so glad I was able to catch up with so many of you. Hopefully I’ll get to see those that I missed when I’m back for Christmas.

Tag

2008-11-17T14:45:00.000-08:00

Tagged
7 Things I Can do:
1. Reach items on high shelves without the aid of a step stool
2. Sing all the words to the theme song “The Facts of Life”
3. Eat pretty much anything4
. Tell when people are having a hard time
5. Encourage others
6. Cook
7. Do the white girl dance

7 Things I Cannot do:
1. Play an instrument Proficiently2
. Speak another language
3. Keep my room clean
4. Run for more than 2 minutes
5. eat beans
6. Watch horror/scary movies
7. The splits

7 Things that attracted me to (Significant other):
1. Currently unsignificant
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

7 Things I say most often:
1. Awesome
2. Frieennndddd!!!
3. you’ve gotta rock the tallness
4. I need a massage
5. I’m sorry, I’m deaf. Can you repeat that?
6. Argh
7. Iove you

7 Celebrity Admirations
1. N/A
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

7 Favorite Foods
1. Mexican
2. Sushi
3. Pasta
4. Yogurt
5. Cheese
6, Chocolate
7. Anythign Fried

7 People to tag:
1. Kristi
2. Michelle
3. Karly
4. Chanelle
5. Stacey
6. Andrea D
7. Andrea A

Open Mouth - Insert Foot

2008-10-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

Note to self: Carefully read text messages vs. skimming them to avoid major confusion. End note.

The weekend is over

2008-10-27T08:45:00.001-07:00

Ahhh it’s Monday again and I’m totally exhausted from my weekend. I stayed out until 5 am for the first time in YEARS… Probably since I was 21 or 22. Man I’m old!! I went down to Stockton to hang out with some friends and some how was convinced (still not quite sure how it happened) into midnight bowling followed by “breakfast” at IHOP at 3:30 am. Needless to say I was useless for most of Saturday and had to take a power nap between services yesterday to keep from falling asleep on my feet.

On the sad side of things my friend Jo’s dad passed away on Thursday. Please pray for him and the family while they go through this trial. It’s been very difficult for all of them.

I'm a super hero!!!

2008-10-20T08:19:00.000-07:00

http://www.makemesuper.com/r.php?i=3_b6546-081828-f-Jennifer

Bishop's Farm

2008-10-19T19:30:00.000-07:00

My Sacramento "family" and I went on a lovely outing to Bishop's Farm in Wheatland on Saturday. I've attached a few pictures from our adventures. We enjoyed train rides, corn mazes, goat & pig races and most of all PIE! I fell in love with their famous walnut pie.

Yuck-O

2008-10-15T11:11:00.000-07:00

I managed to catch some sort of cold/flu bug this week. OH YEAH!!!!! I blame my co-worker Gretta for infecting us all. I really hope I can make it though the next couple of days. It's not a good time to miss work. Oy!!

Tortillas!!!!

2008-10-10T08:41:00.001-07:00

Last night my friend Adam came over to teach me the art of the homemade flour tortilla. I had NO idea it was so easy! All it requires is flour, a little oil, a little baking powder and water. Mix it until it’s a pizza dough consistency then roll and bake on the skillet. I must say they were delicious!! They went wonderfully with my avocado salsa and chicken for tacos. I think we might have to move to Mexico and start a taco stand. Nahhhhh :o)

The Internet is Awesome

2008-10-07T11:54:00.000-07:00

Today I pulled out one of my favorite black shirts fresh from the wash only to find that it had dreaded deodorant stains! (dun dun dunnnnnnnnnnnn!!!!!) What to do?? Alas, all was not lost. When I got to work. I simply googled “Deodorant Stains” and was promptly routed to 63,456 websites to help me with my deodorant needs. Crisis averted…. Phew!!!

Wrap me in your arms

2008-10-06T15:41:00.001-07:00

Last week was a rather intense. On the less earth shattering side the budgets from the black lagoon resurfaced again. I really wish our client would make up its mind as to what they really want to do. It’s kind of annoying to work for 3 or 4 hours on something for them to say – Oh by the way we want to change one little thing. One little thing equals about 2 more hours of work.

On the sad side I spent a lot of time with my friend Jo this week. His dad is in the hospital and will more than likely pass away within the next few months. I don’t know the technical words for what’s wrong but he has lung damage. He could make it a week, a month or even a year but because of his age (he’s in his 70’s) his body just isn’t bouncing back like it should. It’s really sad. I can’t imagine losing my dad period. Let alone in my early 20’s. So anyway, pray for Jo and his family. He’s the youngest of 8 and there are a lot of grandkids that are pretty sad that Grandpa is sick.

On the bright side (yes Pollyanna is my nickname :o) My weekend was nice and relaxing. I did about a million loads of laundry and rearranged my room. I really feel like my house is coming together finally! Also, we had a really amazing church service yesterday. Our praise team learned this song on Saturday and I reallllllllyyy love it!

Michael Gungor - Wrap Me in Your Arms

YAY FRIDAY!!

2008-09-26T12:47:00.001-07:00

Nothing too major happened this week. Let’s see…. My mommy booked my plane tickets for Thanksgiving and Christmas! YAYAY!!! I completed my quarterly property inspections for work. I had an interesting time climbing on roofs, learning about electrical systems and photocells. I however did not enjoy the bugs that I met on the way. I had to go into several electrical rooms that hadn’t been opened in a while and it totally grossed me out. LOL I am such a girly girl. I shrieked and squealed as I almost walked into a room filled with cobwebs. My maintenance guy, Brian, who kindly escorted me through the inspection process, really got a kick out of my reaction to bugs, dead squirrels and human waste (GROOOSSSSSS!!!) that we came across. LOL Ahhh the adventures in property management… What else… I attempted last night to make salmon with a garlic dill butter. It came out ok. Not too bad for my first try.

Anyway, I’ll save you from the rest of my mindless drivel of a week…. I am so glad that it’s Friday!!

Nothing new to report

2008-09-23T08:07:00.001-07:00

I have nothing new to report. However, I don't want to get out of the habit of blogging so I've attached a random Tuesday morning survey for your reading pleasure:

What is your salad dressing of choice?Usually ranch but sometimes balsamic

What is your favorite sit-down restaurant?I love Mimi’s Café

What food could you eat every day for two weeks and not get sick of?Probably Mexican

What are your pizza toppings of choice?
Pepperoni, extra cheese and mushrooms

What do you like to put on your toast?Wheat toast with Butter please

What is your wallpaper on your computer?My sweetie Sam :o)

How many televisions are in your house?1

What color cell phone do you have?Silver and black

Laptop or PC? Laptop

Are you right-handed or left-handed?Right

Have you ever had anything removed from your body?Not really

What is the last heavy item you lifted?Couldn’t tell ya

What color are your eyes?
Green

How did you get one of your scars?
Ohhh so many to choose from… I have one on my forehead from falling down the stairs when I was 2.

Have you ever been knocked unconscious?Not that I remember

If it were possible, would you want to know the day you were going to die?Nope

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?Bob ;o) j/k I don’t know

Would you drink an entire bottle of hot sauce for $1000?Sure.

How many pairs of flip flops do you own?Too many

Last time you had a run-in with the cops?It’s been a long time *knock on wood*

What did you want to be when you grew up?An international food critic

Last person you talked to?Cara

Last person you hugged?Britney

Season?Fall

Holiday?Thanksgiving

Day of the week?Saturday

Month?November

Missing someone?Yup! My nephews!!

Mood?Good – I little tired. Stayed up too late watching Heroes

Listening to?Air

Watching?Nada

Worrying about?Currently nothing

First place you went this morning?To work

What can you not wait to do?Go home and go back to bed! lol

What's the last movie you saw?Miss Congeniality

Do you smile often?I try too. However, I discovered I scowl when I’m concentrating. Gotta knock that off or I’ll get wrinkles!! lol

I realized a few things...

2008-09-19T08:11:00.001-07:00

You know you’re a Californian when…

The high for the day is 72 and you think “burrrr I should wear a sweater”

You turn off every light as you leave the room

You turn off the water when you brush your teeth

You see empty bottles as miscellaneous income

When you hear rain in the forecast you plan additional 20 minutes for your commute (silly Californians can’t drive in the rain!).

Ahhhhhhh

2008-09-19T08:11:00.000-07:00

Ahhhhhhhhh

That is the sound of my sigh of relief. My budgets are done! I successfully completed round one of the budgeting process for 6 properties. This is no small feat considering they were all excel workbooks and I had to link 50% of the cells to make the numbers come out right. It was a lot of work and I’m glad I finished. I’m thankful though that my boss appreciates my work. She went on and on yesterday about how happy she was that I was here and that I just did it. It makes her job easier as a senior manager. She just looks at it, makes minor changes and then it’s off to the client.

Proud to Wait

I’m excited for this weekend! I actually get to relax. For part of it anyway :o) On Saturday we a hosing at “Proud to Wait” seminar for our youth group, iPray. Proud to Wait is a government funded group that offers education for preteens/teenagers about abstinence. I think it is a great tool for our young people and I hope it impacts them positively! Slowly but surely we are Reaching People, Improving Families, and Impacting the Community.

Fall is in the air!

2008-09-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

I love the fall! It's by far my favorite time of year. It's a little different here in California. The leaves don't change quite as much as in Colorado and it doesn't cool down as much, but I love it still the same.

Jeni’s top 10 list of signs Fall is on it’s way

10. The return of The Office!! (Office fans across the universe rejoice!)
9. The morning chill is back in the air
8. My unnatural draw to sweaters even though it’s 80 degrees outside
7. The Christmas Shopping has begun!
6. My search for the perfect pair of boots will commence upon the receipt of my next pay check
5. It’s darker in the mornings
4. It’s also getting dark earlier in the evenings
3. Halloween costumes/candy are everywhere!
2. The trees are starting to change

1. The return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte at Starbucks!

Another Good Song

2008-09-16T15:55:00.000-07:00

God is good!

2008-09-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

We were blessed to have another baptism service at Sacramento's House of Praise this weekend. God is doing great things in Northern California!

Busy Weekend

2008-09-15T10:46:00.001-07:00

I had a busy but great weekend with my mom. We had fun catching up and I was able to take her on her first trip to San Francisco! We saw some good sights and ate some FANTASTIC food. If you're ever in the Bay Area be sure to check out The Stinking Rose. It is the garlic lovers paradise!!

Decorating progress

2008-09-12T20:40:00.001-07:00

Finally Friday

2008-09-12T09:46:00.000-07:00

Work blahhh

I’m so glad that today is Friday! It has been a very hectic and stressful week to say the least. This time of year is always busy at work but I really have been going full speed to get things done before my mom arrives today. I had great feed back on what I’ve accomplished so far from my boss so I think I’ll be able to enjoy this weekend without thinking about work!

Exercise

I really have this love hate relationship with exercise. I hate to do it but I love the results lol. I’ve been working out consistently for 25 days now and am feeling great. I love the energy I have and how well I sleep at night. However, I don’t love being sore the next day though. I’ve been doing the “Firm” workout and it totally kicks my booty. Literally! Lol. It’s designed to help tone those female trouble areas. It combines step-box routines, lightweights, aerobics and strength training. I used the program a few years ago to help me lose some extra flub I had gained through the years. I am proud to say that I’ve kept off all the weight (all 35 lbs! Yay! GO ME!) but I unfortunately had lost a lot of the muscle tone. Watching the Olympics this summer inspired me to start working out again. The female volleyball players are what really made me want to get my butt up off the couch. Tall fit women :o) Who wouldn’t be inspired!!

My mommy is coming!!

My mom is coming tonight YAY! I’m really excited to see her! I’m taking her to San Francisco tomorrow so I’m sure I’ll pictures to post later on in the week. It looks to be a nice relaxing weekend. I think we both need it!!

Hillsong - From the Inside out

2008-09-10T21:39:00.000-07:00

I had my iPod on shuffle the other day and came across this song and it has quickly become one of my favorites. It is my hearts prayer.

Sam

2008-09-10T10:01:00.000-07:00

My sister sent me this adorable picture of Sam today... He's SO CUTE!!!

He is in the 95% for height and 75% for weight. Us Holdaway's grow some tall kids :o)

Catching up

2008-09-10T08:09:00.000-07:00

I’m here today again just plugging along at work in the midst of budget season. Despite my bout of ADD the other day and an unexpected stomach bug yesterday I’m still making a lot of progress and should be done with them ahead of schedule. I’ve noticed in property management that they tend to get put off until the last minute and then everyone is in a frantic state. I want mine done 4 to 5 days early to leave plenty of time for revisions and review. My boss seems to appreciate this :o) Over the last few weeks I’ve heard her say several times “I come into my office and stuff is just done. Stuff that I use to do! It’s like magic!” lol. Apparently the last manager didn’t do much.

Last night I was able to catch up with a friend on the phone I hadn’t talked to in a long time. It made me very grateful for those people that I have in my life that no matter how long you go without talking to them that they’re still there for you. That it could be months or years but you pick up right where you left off. I am very blessed to have more than one really good friend. Not everyone can say that.

Oy!

2008-09-09T06:36:00.001-07:00

A.D.D is bad. I was up until 11:30 working on my budget and got back into the office at 6 a.m. Procrastination is NOT a good thing. I sure hope I learned my lesson!!

I know nothing for months then two in 1 day!

2008-09-08T15:02:00.001-07:00

I think I have A.D.D. today. I am trying really hard to crank out a budget but it’s just not working. Maybe I need to get up from my desk and stretch my legs for a bit? Perhaps food might help my tired brain focus…Maybe I’m tired? I think I stayed up too late last night. In fact I know I did. I made the unwise decision of taking at 2 hour nap on the couch Sunday afternoon and then not exercising until 7 pm. Not that exercise is bad but when you start later you have more energy and you don’t sleep. Not sure how the exact science behind works but I’m sure it’s true. Either that or it’s an urban ledged and I read it on the internet.

Today is a weird day for sure. I can’t focus. My mind won’t stop running in a bazillion different directions. Unfortunately, none of those directions are toward my budget. I think I’m going to have to work late tonight to make up for it… I had weird news, followed by a weird reaction to weird news. Weird events took place at one of the properties I manage (weird as in people getting it on in the parking lot right next to my car). Yeah. I want to burn my eyes out of their sockets lol. It’s like the day of weirdness…gotta love Monday’s!

The silence ends

2008-09-08T09:57:00.000-07:00

I know I haven’t blogged in like a year. So now the silence is broken!

What have I been up to for the last year or so:

Dec -Went home for Christmas
Jan -Got a boy in Colorado
Jan -Hated job
Jan -Quit Job
Jan -Got new job
Feb -Mom came to visit for birthday
March -Got new apartment
March -Broke up with boy from Colorado
April – Visited Family in CO
May -Visited family for Memorial day
June -Met a guy
June -Hated new job
June -Got bored with new guy
July -Quit new job
July -Got new new job
July -Got a new nephew
July -Went to see new nephew
August – Met new new guy
August -Love new new job
August -Started Exercising again
Sept - Best friend moved from CA to FL
Sept -Lost 5 lbs
Sept – Still not sure about new new guy
Sept -My mom is coming to visit on Friday

And that in a nutshell has been my life. Minus a few things here and there ;o) Hopefully I blog more often now that a lot of stress from my old job is gone. That’s really the main reason I stopped. I was so stressed out and mentally drained that I didn’t want anything to do with the computer when I got home.

Anyway, I love you guys and I’ll try to keep in touch more!

Thanksgiving 2007

2007-11-22T13:47:00.001-08:00

I made it home through the snow to Denver to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday with my family. The Holdaway, Glenn. Brown Thanksgiving was a huge success this year! We enjoyed a delicious meal from Mimi's Cafe and enjoyed the usual Holdaway festivities as we stuffed ourselves silly. The best part is that no one had to clean up! YAY!!

I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday as well!

We love you!!

Tea at the Ritz Carlton Hotel

2007-11-21T14:19:00.000-08:00

The girls and I had the pleasure of spending Saturday afternoon at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in San Fransisco for the Lovely Mrs. Janelle Hyatt's 26th birthday. All and all the day was a huge success! I definitely want to go again!

Sophie, Amy, Janelle, Jeni, Katie

Sophie, Amy, Janelle

Amy & Janelle

Jeni & Katie

Finger Sandwiches YUM!

Cucumber Sandwich

Janelle's Birthday Strawberries

Amazing Grace

2007-11-19T12:48:00.000-08:00

I watched a wonderful movie last night called “Amazing Grace” last night. The song “Amazing Grace” has been one of my favorites since I became a Christan 14 years ago so I was excited to see what the movie was about. I really had no prior knowledge as to the origin of the song and was surprised it was associated with the slavery abolition movement in England during the early 1800’s. This movie really shed light on how much work it really took to get slavery abolished. I am so grateful and thankful to live in a country where slavery has been eradicated.

"Amazing Grace"

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound

That sav’d a wretch like me!I

once was lost, but now am found,Was blind, but now I see.

’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,

And grace my fears reliev’d;

How precious did that grace appear,

The hour I first believ’d!

Thro’ many dangers, toils and snares,

I have already come;

’Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,

And grace will lead me home.

The Lord has promis’d good to me,

His word my hope secures;

He will my shield and portion be,

As long as life endures.

Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,

And mortal life shall cease;I

shall possess, within the veil,

A life of joy and peace.

The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,

The sun forbear to shine;

But God, who call’d me here below,

Will be forever mine.
John Newton, Olney Hymns (London: W. Oliver, 1779)

History
John Newton wrote this hymn some time after converting to Christianity in the village of Kineton, in Warwickshire, England. The lyrics are based on his reflections on an Old Testament text he was preparing to preach on, adding his perspective about his own conversion while on his slave ship, the Greyhound, in 1748.
The melody most often used for this hymn was not original (nor was Newton a composer). As with other hymns of this period, the words were sung to a number of tunes before and after they first became linked to the now familiar variant of the tune "New Britain" in William Walker's shape-note tunebook Southern Harmony, 1835. [1]
There are several tunes to which these words have been sung. "New Britain" first appears in a shape note hymnal from 1829 called Columbian Harmony.

Shape Note version from 1835.
The melody is believed to be Scottish or Irish in origin; it is pentatonic and suggests a bagpipe tune; the hymn is frequently performed on bagpipes and has become associated with that instrument. This tune seems to have been firmly established as the 'standard' for this hymn after an arrangement of it appeared in a series of popular hymnbooks in the early twentieth century. (See also the versions in the Sacred Harp article.)
Another tune to which it has sometimes been sung is the so-called "Old Regular Baptist" tune. It was sung by the Congregation of the Little Zion Church, Jeff, Kentucky, on the album The Ritchie Family of Kentucky on the Folkways label (1958).
Newton's lyrics have become a favorite for Christians, largely because the hymn vividly and briefly sums up the doctrine of divine grace. The lyrics are based on I Chronicles 17:16-17, a prayer of King David in which he marvels at God's choosing him and his house. Newton apparently wrote this for use in a sermon he preached on this passage on New Year's Day 1773, and for which he left his sermon notes, which correspond to the flow of the lyrics[2]. (He entitled the piece "Faith's review and expectation.")
The song has also become known as a favorite with supporters of freedom and human rights, both Christian and non-Christian, in part because many assume it to be his testimony about his slave trading past. The song has been sung by many notable musical performers, including iconic folk singer Judy Collins.
The hymn was quite popular on both sides in the American Civil War. While on the "trail of tears," the Cherokee were not always able to give their dead a full burial. Instead, the singing of "Amazing Grace" had to suffice. Since then, "Amazing Grace" is often considered like a Cherokee National Anthem [3]. For this reason, many contemporary Native American musicians have recorded the song.
In recent years, this song has also become popular in America with drug and alcohol recovery groups, particularly Christian ones, at celebrations of how they "once were lost, but now are found." SOURCE http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amazing_Grace

Cute Kid

2007-11-16T14:38:00.000-08:00

I was talking to a coworker earlier today about babies and being a cute kid. I of curse piped in the Josiah (my nephew if you hadn’t already figured that out) was “The Cutest Kid in the World”. What he didn’t figure was that I was going to say I was “The Second Cutest Kid in the World” when I was young. I have to say I was quite adorable from birth until around 5th or 6th grade. Then came the “ugliness” that didn’t dissipate until I was about 20 lol! (I’m sure my mom would ague that one). So anyway, I came across these pictures of when I was runner up as cutest kid in the world and thought I’d post them. Hopefully the “ugliness” pictures are still locked safe away in the bottomless pit of my parents basement.

Go Green!

2007-11-14T10:41:00.000-08:00

Today I am really struggling with the reasoning behind a 3 hour conference call that I’m actively participating in but obviously not paying attention to. It took exactly 24 minutes for all of the participants in the call to understand the instructors simple command of -“Click the second link. Type your name. Click Enter Meeting”. I being the techno savvy person that I am was able to log into the call after exactly 45 seconds.

My second issue with this call is that it’s regarding “going green”. Don’t get me wrong “going green” is a great idea. We should save money and energy if at all possible. But I don’t need a 3 our phone call to tell me that it’s a good idea. I feel like they’re beating a dead horse. Or maybe I just feel like beating a dead horse… maybe I should start paying attention…..

Jesus Take the Wheel

2007-11-07T09:54:00.000-08:00

I came across this the other day when I was reading through some things I had jotted down. I wrote it a little over a year ago. I thought I'd re-post it. It's still as true today as it was a year ago!

______________________________

I had a conversation yesterday with a friend about letting God control your life. Letting God control my life is something that I really struggle with. I am one of those people who really like structure, organization, planning, and order. I like to know where I’m going, when I’ll be there, how I’m going to get there, and what I’m going to do when I arrive. The lord has really been dealing with me about it lately and I relayed this analogy to my friend that has helped me stop and let God do the work. Say you are a passenger in a car and God is the driver. You start out on your journey by jumping in the car with both feet. Not really caring where you’ll end up and just excited to spend some time with God. As you drive you start talking to the Lord and He starts to tell you a little bit about where you’re going and what you’re going to do. After a while you start to get impatient. It seems like it’s taking forever to get to your destination. Looking at the highway a head you realize that you are about to hit traffic and that will delay your arrival even more. You casually mention to God that you know a shorter route that would avoid much of the traffic a head. God thanks your for your input but continues down the road toward the traffic. Now you’re annoyed. You KNOW that the other way is much faster so instead of just trusting that God has you on the right path you yank the wheel out of His hands in the direction of your short cut. As soon as you take the wheel BAM! You’re in an accident. You were lucky this time it was just a minor fender bender. Not major damage other than being shaken up and a little bit sore. But now you’re off the highway. You wind and twist and have several near misses with accidents. Finally you realize that you’re lost. So you swallow your pride and hand the wheel back to God. It takes a little navigation but before you know it you’re back on the highway headed to your destination. Along the drive you forget that God is, well God, and you take the wheel a few more times and unfortunately get into a few more accidents and eventually lost, again. You even blame God along the way for a bit of it! (how silly we are!!) However, the Lord is patient and always there to help when asked but like a gentleman He never forces His will on us. Eventually, you are so tired and bruised from all the accidents that you just give up and completely give Him the wheel. You are tired, hurt, frustrated, your car is in pieces and is barely running. But as soon as God has the wheel He drives you straight to the dealership for a tune up. Before you know it you and your car are as good as new! With God behind the wheel you start back on the highway and on your path. While He’s driving you start talking to each other more. You realize that while you had the wheel you were so focused on getting yourself out of the messes you got yourself into that you had neglected your relationship with Him. The more you talk to Him the more you realize that He DOES know exactly where you’re going and how to get you there. You do still run into traffic and hit a few pot holes along the way. But the ride is much smoother and the ware and tare on your vehicle is much less. I know it’s easier said that done but letting God take the wheel really is the best option out there. It’s not always fun or easy. It’s often painful and confusing. But ultimately God does have a plan and we will get where He wants us to go.

Sunday School!!

2007-11-06T08:05:00.000-08:00

We had our 2nd annual Sac-Hop Sunday School harvest party on Saturday. We had over 20 kids show up for the big event! Our party consisted some of the best pizza I've ever had (complements of Round Table Pizza). We played games, gave away prizes and decorated our favorite pictures and put them into frames. All and all a huge success!

Thursday morning musings

2007-11-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I think I forget that God is in control of my life. I try to do stuff on my own and it inevitably gets screwed up. Then like magic I remember that it’s not up to me. It’s all up to Him. The pressure and stress leaves and then everything falls into place like it’s supposed to.

It’s like the little kid reaching for something they need or want high on a shelf – Instead of asking their dad to help them they try everything possible to reach what they want. They’ll grab a bench that’s too short. Try to jump, leap, spin in circles and eventually fall on their face. Finally, after they are frustrated and worked up they’ll ask their Father for help. It takes Him all of 5 seconds to do what took us hours of frustrating work to fail at. I think I’m slowly but surely learning what I can control and what God control. And allowing God to be God and take care of what He does best - taking care of me :o)

Rock'ntober and josiah

2007-10-29T14:14:00.000-07:00

This weekend is a bit of a blur. We had a good turnout for Rock’ntober. The spirit of God really moved in the concert and we were able to make some good connections in the community. I would like to thank everyone who helped us to pull this off. It was a lot of work and your help is appreciated more than you know. Thank you for allowing God to use you for His Glory.

In other news – Josiah is still adorable :o) For your enjoyment I’ve attached a few pictures of THE cutest kid IN THE WORLD Mr. Josiah Brown. He was Spiderman for his pre-school Halloween party.

Apparently he thought his teacher was a little scary. I tend to agree!

The cutie!!!!!

Rock'ntober!!

2007-10-23T09:46:00.001-07:00

Napa Pictures

2007-10-23T00:47:00.000-07:00

I went to Napa last weekend for a little R&R. Here are a few pictures I took along the way. Enjoy!

The Adventures of Jeni and Jo

2007-10-01T18:08:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time Jeni and Jo were playing at the parental units house when along came the evil grandpa monster. In order to avoid the teribble fate of death by tickling the wise young Josiah hides behind the couch.

After a few minutes of silence Jo peeks out to find Grandpa aka papparazi awaiting trying to catch him off guard.

Enter Auntie Jeni always willing to protect her adorable nephew. Their method of escape? The old hinding under the blanket trick.

Unfortunately Grandpa isn't as old as he seems and find them quite quickly.

A struggle ensues and eventual defeat by the evil grandpa monster. Jeni is unable to save from his tickle fate.

The End :o)

Tired

2007-10-01T18:01:00.001-07:00

I know I know it’s a miracle! The Blog is updated once again! LOL Well I’m just about to head back to Sacramento from a very hectic and exhausting trip to Denver. I managed in the span of three days to pack up my remaining belongings in Denver, send them on a truck to Sacramento, clean my house AND squeeze in as much Jo/family/friend time as humanly possible.

My dear friends even sacrificed much needed

sleep t o eat breakfast with me Saturday morning at 8:00 am. Apparently I rank pretty high on a few peoples list and I feel pretty special about that! LOL

All and all it was a good trip despite of my terrible attitude, forking out an extra thousand dollars for my move and not sleeping.

I guess that doesn’t sound too great but I got to see a lot of people that I care about so it makes it all worthwhile.

Zion Leon

2007-09-25T16:37:00.000-07:00

Zion Leon

Many of you may remember Mike, Andrea and Zion Leon from their time in Denver a few years ago. As you may know, Zion was diagnosed with Autism about 4 years ago. Zion is currently 8 years old, in the 3rd grade and attending Jefferson Elementary School in Sacramento. Zion is privileged to be in a specialized class room of only 6 students all which are Autistic. This allows Zion individual, specialized learning and care. Since entering this program Zion’s speech, writing and reading have greatly improved! His vocabulary has increase and he is able to site read/write many words and phrases.

This year Mike and Drea have asked me to help with donations for Zion’s class annual fundraiser. 100% of the proceeds are used directly for Zion’s class. All monies collected are utilized for computers, supplies, fieldtrips and classroom aides throughout the school year.

Zion will be participating in a class jog on October 5th. Last year he ran 8 laps on his own! He had a great time (he likes to play tag. He thought he was chasing the kids around the track!). Zion’s personal goal is $500. If you are interested in donating please contact me for details. Donations are due to the school by October 4, 2007.

Thank you for your love and support! Zion is a GREAT kid and I know he and his family appreciate your help!

Facts About Autism
Autism is a developmental disability, which usually begins before 3 years of age and is a life-long disability.
The incidence of autism is approximately 1 out of every 150 births.
People with autism have a normal life span.
Autism is 4-5 times more prevalent in males than in females.
Presently, there is no cure for autism. However, there are various treatment options to ameliorate the symptoms.
Presently, there is no known single cause for autism. However, autism is not caused environmentally by a child's upbringing.
Research indicates that people with autism learn best through a structured environment.
Autism occurs in all countries and within all socioeconomic classes.
Research indicates that the earlier the intervention, the better for people with autism.
Source – New Horizons in Autism www.nhautism.org

Good news!

2007-09-25T15:58:00.000-07:00

About a year ago one of my good friends had the unfortunate and devastating experience of losing their 9 day old child. I have been amazed by their faithfulness to God and perseverance through out this trial. They took comfort in knowing that everything happens for a reason and that they were held close by the hands of the Creator. Today when we spoke I was given fantastic news! I’m happy to announce that she is pregnant again and with another boy!

Congratulations Thea and Micah!

Excuses

2007-09-24T09:19:00.000-07:00

Excuses

I’m full of them right now as to why I haven’t updated my blog in the last two months. I’d have to say that the biggest one would be time. Previously I’d update my blog while I was at work. But lately things have been going ninety miles an hour from the moment I walk in the door until the second I leave. Two weeks ago I started tracking exactly what I do while I’m at work. I discovered that I do an insane amount of work for one person. Both my boss and I do. We’re currently using these ever changing and ever expanding list of task to petition the all mighty director (think pointy haired boss from Dilbert) to get us some help. If that doesn’t work I may take up residence under my desk to eliminate my commute time so I can spend more time in the office.

Now I bet your wondering why I have time to blog today? Well the truth of the matter is that I don’t. However, my boss has taken today as a sick day. And as they say – While the Cat’s away the mice will play! Lol

So my life isn’t all work. But by the time I get home the last thing I want to do is get on the computer and write about it(another excuse). I’ve been keeping busy with church and hanging out with friends. Danny and I (Danny is the youth pastor) have been doing a lot with the kids in the youth group lately. We’re currently working on a Christian concert scheduled for the end of October called Rockn’tober. We have 4 or 5 local Christian bands scheduled to play in the park on 10/27/07 (I’ll post more details later. Hopefully!). We also helped with a community event last weekend called Celebrate Natomas. We handed out about 1000 bottles of water to people at the event. Not to shabby for a church of only 65! And yes, I dressed up as a clown for our

Sunday school department. I’ve attached a picture for prosperities sake.

This Friday night we had a family fun night at Scandia. It’s the equivalent of Boondocks for those of you from Colorado. We had a blast! Luke and I (I live with Luke’s family) went on this Giant ride called the “Scandia Screamer”. I think it was the most fun I’d ever had on a ride. This thing goes up 168 feet in the air and spins you all over the place. The catch is though that you can’t scream! There’s a noise ordinance because it’s near a residential area. If you scream the kick you off the ride! Luke was absolutely hilarious on the on the “Scandia Screamer”. I laughed so hard I cried! Below are pictures from Scandia!

Adam after his world famous hole in 1!

Adam with Mr. Zion who does not like to have his picture taken.

Randy & Tina - I live with them and their family.

Me, Freke (our new friend from Holland) and Danny

Brittney, Lattavia and Dawnminique waiting for the go-carts.

Pastor D showin' us how it's done

The girls showing their driving skills.

The boys taking the game wayyyyy to seriously!

Let’s see what else… I still make it up to Stockton pretty often to see Janelle and the crew. Maddie and Tristan are getting so big. I remember when they moved to California and Maddie had not teeth and couldn’t walk. Now she chatters on all the time and is in ballet lessons! She’s such a cutie! Tristan just started kindergarten a few weeks ago and seems to like it pretty well.

OH I’m coming to Colorado for the weekend! I am coming out to get the remainder of my belongings and bring them to storage in Sacramento. I still haven’t had any takers on my house. If anyone is interested in renting it please let me know! 888 sf 1 bedroom 1.5 bathroom loft. Great location in Denver! Only $750/ month!

Love you all! See you soon!!

New Church Website

2007-08-03T08:30:00.000-07:00

Our church website is finally done! Thanks to my good friend Michael - Sacramento's House of Praise website has been revamped! check it out!

Also, this Sunday 8/5/07 is SUPER SUNDAY! We're going back to the future with a 1950's theme Sunday of fun! Expect games, prizes, puppets and interactive worship for the whole family. And if that's not reason enough to come out and visit - I, yes I, have a puppet solo this month. Bet ya didn't know I had those kind of skills!

More Pictures

2007-07-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

I am obviously not working much today...

Zebras and another african animal that I can't remember the name of :o)

Rocks along the coast

Danny before I yelled at him for letting the kids hike so close to the waves.

Ruins of a fort by the coast

Above mentioned waves.

Kiato being eaten by a lion.

More pretty flowers

Ceasar - nothing but air.

Lions & Tigers & Bears OH MY!

Lazy lions

San Francisco zoo

2007-07-16T09:18:00.000-07:00

We took the kids from the youth group to the San Francisco Zoo this weekend. We had a great time! Below are a few pictures of our adventures!

Happy Feet!

Fun at the petting zoo. Jeni, Naomi & Brittney

Early morning flowers. They had us up at 6 a.m.

The boys -Cesar, O'Sae, Kato, Brandon, Brian, Luke, Nate & Danny

The Kiddo's at the Golden Gate Bridge

Found my cousin at the Zoo!

Golden Gate Bridge

Hiking up the coast

Pam & Jeni at the ocean

Mr. Polar bear - "What are you lookin' at?"

The bull

Our loco boys

Fishies in the rain forest exhibit

Did you know they are pink because they eat shrimp?

Golden Gate in the fog.

I do not like Red Bull

2007-07-12T12:36:00.000-07:00

I Do not like red bull

I went for a walk in Capitol Park yesterday at lunch and ran into a team of marketing people. Their product for the day was Red Bull. A friend of mine is shamelessly addicted to these things. I’d only had it once a long time ago so I thought hey – Why not? Seeing how it was free and all. I, being the ever calorie counting girl that I am, chose the sugar free variation of the drink. I have to say that it’s just about the worst tasting thing I’ve come across yet. It was comparable to gritty, fizzy cough syrup. Yuck! Not on my top ten list of favorite things to drink. I don’t know how you do it Michael!

In other news I recently joined the 21st century and purchased a small MP3! I know I know. Everyone has either an iPod or a MP3 player. I guess I’m just not a gadget/technology girl. I didn’t get a DVD player until 2002, never owned a disc man, I use my cell phone *gasp!* until it breaks. I doubt I’ll ever own an iPhone until they cost less than $75. I’m actually pretty excited about my purchase. I’ve been going to the gym after work for the last few weeks and it’s been nice to be able to plug the head phones in and tune everyone else out. There’s nothing more annoying than working out on the elliptical machine and having Joe blow try to start a conversation.

The biggest Loser

Our bible study started a “Biggest Loser” competition about 3 weeks ago. For those of you who don’t know the concept behind “The Biggest Loser” it’s basically a weight loss motivation program. You take a group of people and you compete to see who loses the most weight in the designated time period. The results are calculated based on the percentage of your body weight you lose. Each person puts in $20 and at the end the winner takes the cash. So far I’m winning! I didn’t think I had any chance at all. I only have a total of 13 lbs to lose. So far I’ve lost 5.5. Hopefully I can keep it up and don’t totally blow it with all the Mexican food I’m going to eat when I go to Denver next week.

I have a couple of prayer request for everyone to keep in mind. #1 there is a lady in our office whose mother was recently made aware of a brain aneurysm. She is scheduled for surgery in the next 3 weeks. #2 there is a lady in my office who found out she has a brain tumor. She is having surgery next week.

2007-07-10T13:34:00.000-07:00

Go green!!!

2007-07-10T11:56:00.000-07:00

Well -I haven’t updated my blog in a while. It’s not because I’ve been super busy it’s because I’ve been super L-A-Z-Y! I went from insanely busy in my work life to catching up with all my friends who thought I moved back to Colorado to just wanting to do nothing. That’s exactly what I did this weekend. I can say that Saturday I only left the house to go to praise team practice and to the store. Sunday it was only for church and to the store. On both Saturday and Sunday I managed to fall asleep while trying to read my new book “Maisie Dobbs”. I’m not sure if it was because I’ve been so tired or because the book is slow. It’s very well written – it’s just not the most exciting book I’ve ever read. However, I am determined to finish it here soon so I can move on to the next on my list. I hope to read before the end of the month War of the Worlds and Emma. I also purchased Property Management for Dummies for reference material. My next will probably be California Real Estate License for Dummies (not actually sure if that’s a book or not but it sounds good).

Birthdays!

I want to say happy Birthday to my brother in law Steve. He’ll be thirty-something on July 15 and Josiah will be 3 on July 20th. I’m looking forward to going home for the weekend to see Mr. Jo. I plan to spoil him even more rotten than he already is!

They were delicious!!!

2007-06-25T11:01:00.001-07:00

Busy Busy busy busy tired busy busy busy sick busy busy

2007-06-22T10:07:00.000-07:00

Did I mention I was busy? Well I have been! Over the last 3 weeks I’ve done little besides work and sleep. I managed to finish two huge projects, one requiring most of the work after hours, survived an audit, filling in for out of town coworkers and the stomach flu. Boy am I glad June is almost over!

I suppose I shouldn’t complain about work because in a way I did ask for it. Well, sort of. I was causally praying and said “God, I really need to pay off my laptop. Do you think you could help me out with that?” I of course was thinking more along the lines of Uncle Tim wining the power ball and sending me a nice fat check but no. God made me work for it. Sheesh!! I guess I should be more specific next time in the direction of my prayer ;o)

Even though I’m exhausted and an unexpected 6 lbs lighter (due to the bout with the stomach flu) I am doing well. I was able to go visit my good friends in Stockton last night for the first time in quite a while. I heard several of them say “We saw you more when you lived in Denver.” Which made me feel quite guilty. Hopefully I’ll be able to balance my time a little bit better now that the worst is over at work.

This weekend looks to be relaxing. We have our youth bible study tonight at one of our family’s homes. We’re doing a camp out in the backyard. Can you believe that most of these kids have NEVER been camping? City folk?! I’m tellin’ ya! My job tonight is to teach them the ever important skill of s’more making. Hopefully they will retain this highly important part of childhood development and pass it along to other deprived children living in the Sacramento area. Saturday I have a date with Janelle to do nothing. It’ll probably consist of lying around and reading magazines while her children run wild. Either that or I’ll get roped in to helping her pack (they are moving into their new apartment in a week or so). Either way I’m not working and that’s the most important thing!

Pictures From Home

2007-06-05T20:00:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from my visit home over Memorial Day weekend. They're mostly of the kid. Enjoy!!

Daddy-o

Jo after he tackled me playing foot ball

This kid throws a foot ball better than I do!

Auntie Jeni are we done with pictures yet?

Cara & Jo

Me & Jo

Me & Jo Again

Jo Cara & Me

Smokey My favorite Dog and Jo's favorite playmate

Say CHEESE!!

He knows he's cute

The Tiffinator at her surprise party!

Me and Tiffany

The Burton's

Quotes from my favorite 2 year old

2007-05-28T10:09:00.000-07:00

While asking Josiah nicely not to pick his nose he responded with:

“Jeni, it’s just what Kids do.”

When Cara asked him not to pick his nose he said:

“Momma, people who pick their noses are happy.”

Airports

2007-05-24T16:30:00.000-07:00

You gotta love airports. I’m sitting here in the Sacramento airport wondering why people are so uptight all the time. My flight has been delayed. It is due to mechanical reasons. Now a sane nice normal person might think – oh wow, I’m glad they discovered this before I plummeted 30,000 feet to the ground in a blazing fire ball of death. However, the not so sane-nice-normal person seems to be on my flight. I can’t tell you how many irate people have gone up to the ticket counter to complain. Like that is going to speed up the process. Obviously not-so-nice-or-sane person doesn’t realize that the only thing they are really accomplishing is getting put at the back of the airplane in those crapy seats that don’t recline. He he he. If I were a flight attendant I’d probably be tempted to do nasty things to people who left the manners at home.

Beside this slight detour I’m doing pretty ok. I was rather irresponsible this week and went to bed WAY TOO LATE pretty much every night so I’m exhausted. I think typing is the only thing that is keeping me from dozing in my seat. That and the thought that someone might steal my laptop. That might make me angry. Anyway, I’m sure I’ll get home eventually. I hope to see you all soon!!

Toner or Playground Equipment

2007-05-16T12:38:00.000-07:00

Two of my very good friends started their own Internet companies this year. I thought I'd do a little promoting for them and put up their websites in my blog. Please note that my brother in law Steve works for Inkonomy so if you buy from them you are keeping food in the mouth of my very adorable nephew Josiah and aiding in the dream of Cara being a full time stay at home mom (feel guilty yet?) :o)

http://www.playgroundwonderland.com/

http://www.inkonomy.com/

CLC Graduation and Mothers Day

2007-05-14T20:20:00.000-07:00

This blog is really taking me much longer than i had originally intended. I think I started about an hour ago trying to up load pictures from this weekend. Unfortunately, one of the prongy thingy's (yes I said prongy thingy) from my card reader was bent. After about 20 minutes of fiddling with it using a safety pin, which i think i may have lost somewhere in my bed, I Jerry rigged the thing and got the pictures down loaded. Then came the formatting adventure of blogger.com. Lots of fun! :0)

Anyway, I went to the CLC graduation this weekend and thought I would post a few of the pictures. Some really amazing young people graduated this weekend. I'm excited to see what God is going to do with them in the future. I love you all and good luck!

Mr. John Albrect. Graduated with his BA in music theory. I believe the man came in a drummer and left a bass player. He is pretty amazing if I do say so myself. He is also a future missionary to South America.

This is me and the Lovely miss Amy! She graduated with her BA in music theory as well. I think she is taking a music internship next year. She is a missionary kid.

My good friend Jhon with his mom Lucy and friend. Jhon is from Columbia and graduated with his BA in bible theology. He is currently the Spanish Pastor at a church in Livermore, CA.

This is Daniel. He graduated with his BA in Bible Theology and will be going back to Sweden to help his dad and brother in law with their church.

This is Daniel's sister Sophie. She graduated with her AA and will be going back to Sweden to help with her home church as well.

Jake graduated with his BA in bible theology. He also plays the guitar and is a future missionary to South America.

This weekend was also Mother's day. I wasn't able to make it home this weekend (hi mom! I love you) so i spent the day with my church family at Sacramento's House of Praise. Below are several pictures of the Mother's at our church. We also honored Sis. Drea for all her hard work and dedication to the church. She is one of the most selfless people I have ever met. We love you!

Well that's all for now. Below are pictures of me and my partner and crime and her poor husband who is often forced to take part in our adventures. I hope to hear from everyone soon!

I love...

2007-05-10T08:16:00.000-07:00

The spontaneous presence of God.

Today

2007-05-08T22:23:00.000-07:00

What to blog?

So I’ve been thinking. What exactly does one blog about? Is it random musings? Or actual events? So far my week has been rather dull. Work has been ok. I had a rather interesting conversation with a not so smart customer service representative from the City of Sacramento today. It actually put me in a rather foul mood. I was forced beyond my will to get a much needed manicure and pedicure after work to help me relax/unwind from the mental abuse I was put through. Maybe I should sue them for mental distress! HA!!! Now that would be funny…

Sue happy Americans

Actually, there has been a huge issue with people going sue crazy here in California. I guess there are these random people who go to older buildings and then sue the owners if they aren’t ADA compliant. They settle out of court for around $8,000 and then move on to the next property. The sad thing is though that the property owners are forced into doing hundreds of thousands of dollars in repairs to make the buildings compliant. While, it is important to have these sites updated, a lot of the requirements are extreme. So Jo blow walks away with 8 grand and property owner has a huge hole in their pocket. Did I mention that Joe Blow isn’t disabled in anyway shape or form? Only in America.

Pictures

Here are a few pictures from my recent trip to Sana Cruz. It was my first trip to a real beach. I’ve actually been to one of the beaches in San Fran but I figure that if you have to wear a coat to visit it doesn’t really count as the Beach. My friend Danny and I were able to find this nifty spot. He braved freezing cold water surfing while I practiced my photography.

I Know I know

2007-05-08T21:59:00.000-07:00

Everyone and their brother has a blog...

Anyway, I was actually inspired by my beautiful cousin Michelle to start. It really is a great way to keep everyone up to date on what is going on in my life. I haven't been as good at keeping in touch as I initially planned. Hopefully this will let those I don't call as often still know that I am alive and well in the lovely city of Sacramento.

So here I go! I hope you enjoy!