Tuesday, December 30, 2008
2009
For those interested, my friend said that the year 2009 is the year of prosperity. Look at the previous blog for details!
Monday, December 29, 2008
Party Like It's 19-99... I Mean, 20-08...(As Sung By The Artist Formerly Known As Prince)
2008...
I remember, like it was yesterday, when I was sitting around in my office at work just a year ago, thinking about how we were on the brink of a new year again so soon! Time certainly flies a little quicker with every passing year (scary).
As I was contemplating the speed at which the year 2007 passed, one of my employees said to me something very prophetic. After talking to her about plans, goals, dreams, and prayers I had for the year 2008, she spoke words I would never forget:
"Jenny, the year 2007 was a year of completion and the year 2008, is a year of new beginnings"
The number 8, apparently, signifies new beginnings in the Bible. As soon as she said it, I believed it to be fully true for me. Mostly because I knew that the year 2007 had been a year of completion for me (I will save that for another blog).
I had no idea the truth behind those words, but I took them with much faith.
I sort of forgot about them until about May/June, when I was looking back on the first third of the year 2008. A lot had begun afresh for me. I had quit my job as the director of the daycare. I had moved to Baltimore. I had begun going to Grace. I had made some new friends. I had a new job as a nanny in Federal Hill (paying me a lot more than I was making as a director in a day care, nonetheless). I had ended some very destructive relationships and repaired some broken ones. I had finally found an apartment, but not just any apartment. One that was a lot less expensive than I had been planning on. I had a roommate who loved Jesus, I also was not fully expecting that to happen (I assumed I would just have to room with some random Towson college girl...I am shuttering at the thought).
As I looked back, I thought about how good God is to not only meet my needs, but blow my mind with surpassing my desires. And he continues to do that today!
Looking back on the rest of the year since June, I have started going to a small group through Grace that I love. Have met some very cool people indeed. I have met a man that I can only describe as the perfect complement to the missing puzzle piece in my life. And friends, this is such a new beginning!
So, yes. Finally. The year is over and we are on the brink of another. I have no clue what the number 9 signifies in God's Word (I will have to ask my friend and get back to you). But, I do know this, I have been truely blessed with one of the most interesting, joyfully rich and painfully hardest years of my entire life.
I remember, like it was yesterday, when I was sitting around in my office at work just a year ago, thinking about how we were on the brink of a new year again so soon! Time certainly flies a little quicker with every passing year (scary).
As I was contemplating the speed at which the year 2007 passed, one of my employees said to me something very prophetic. After talking to her about plans, goals, dreams, and prayers I had for the year 2008, she spoke words I would never forget:
"Jenny, the year 2007 was a year of completion and the year 2008, is a year of new beginnings"
The number 8, apparently, signifies new beginnings in the Bible. As soon as she said it, I believed it to be fully true for me. Mostly because I knew that the year 2007 had been a year of completion for me (I will save that for another blog).
I had no idea the truth behind those words, but I took them with much faith.
I sort of forgot about them until about May/June, when I was looking back on the first third of the year 2008. A lot had begun afresh for me. I had quit my job as the director of the daycare. I had moved to Baltimore. I had begun going to Grace. I had made some new friends. I had a new job as a nanny in Federal Hill (paying me a lot more than I was making as a director in a day care, nonetheless). I had ended some very destructive relationships and repaired some broken ones. I had finally found an apartment, but not just any apartment. One that was a lot less expensive than I had been planning on. I had a roommate who loved Jesus, I also was not fully expecting that to happen (I assumed I would just have to room with some random Towson college girl...I am shuttering at the thought).
As I looked back, I thought about how good God is to not only meet my needs, but blow my mind with surpassing my desires. And he continues to do that today!
Looking back on the rest of the year since June, I have started going to a small group through Grace that I love. Have met some very cool people indeed. I have met a man that I can only describe as the perfect complement to the missing puzzle piece in my life. And friends, this is such a new beginning!
So, yes. Finally. The year is over and we are on the brink of another. I have no clue what the number 9 signifies in God's Word (I will have to ask my friend and get back to you). But, I do know this, I have been truely blessed with one of the most interesting, joyfully rich and painfully hardest years of my entire life.
Friday, December 26, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 1
Number 1.
Singing Silent Night at the Christmas Eve Service.
Growing up I always looked forward to the Christmas Eve Service, mostly because it was something I had to get through in order to get my presents the next day. However, I also loved the fact that they would let me play with fire!
Walking into the church, kids and adults alike were handed candles and paper circles to put them through to "catch the wax". Or if you were like me, it became a game of seeing how much wax they could hold.
Yes, the song was beautiful as we passed the flame from candle to candle in the dark sanctuary, but also it was a moment of pure joy for the reasons stated above.
Singing Silent Night at the Christmas Eve Service.
Growing up I always looked forward to the Christmas Eve Service, mostly because it was something I had to get through in order to get my presents the next day. However, I also loved the fact that they would let me play with fire!
Walking into the church, kids and adults alike were handed candles and paper circles to put them through to "catch the wax". Or if you were like me, it became a game of seeing how much wax they could hold.
Yes, the song was beautiful as we passed the flame from candle to candle in the dark sanctuary, but also it was a moment of pure joy for the reasons stated above.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 2
Well friends, we are nearing the end of Jenny's 25 Days of Christmas. I hope it was enjoyable to read through some of my favorite things of the holiday season.
Number 2.
Snow on Christmas Day.
In my lifetime, I can really only recall a handful of times it has actually snowed on Christmas Day. There is something extra special about the snow coming down on this day. Maybe it's because I am already stuck inside with family and friends and there's nothing to do but be with them. The added snow just makes it seem colder and more wonderful to be lazy and warm inside the house.
Number 2.
Snow on Christmas Day.
In my lifetime, I can really only recall a handful of times it has actually snowed on Christmas Day. There is something extra special about the snow coming down on this day. Maybe it's because I am already stuck inside with family and friends and there's nothing to do but be with them. The added snow just makes it seem colder and more wonderful to be lazy and warm inside the house.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Walking In A Winter Wonderland
When I think back on the weekend that just passed, I am thankful that God is so very good and so present in our lives. Let me explain.First of all, I was able to have a some what relaxing Friday evening. I will forget to mention that it took me 30-45 minutes to decide how to wrap one of Dan's gifts. I didn't want him to know what it was before he opened it, so I had to get creative (I had no boxes or bags, just wrapping paper). Anywho, it was a great night though. Sometimes you just need to be at home on a Friday. Even with all the Christmas parties and gatherings, I had to just say "no" to it all, for my sanity (and yours :)) I kept thinking in my head how it's hard for me to say "no" to people. I hate doing it, but sometimes you have to...I NEED BOUNDARIES HERE PEOPLE!!!!
Lol.
Saturday was probably one of the best days with Dan yet. We had decided to do our Christmas together on that day, as he is heading home to Wisconsin for Christmas.
Our plan was to go to DC and visit some of the museums. The American History Museum (or the National Museum of American History) had re-opened and he has been wanting to see it and I haven't been to DC in ages. So, off we went. After finding some parking, we headed to the American History Museum.
Side note: On our walk there, we met up with a squirrel that Dan proceeded to "speak to". Never in all my days have I seen a squirrel respond to a grown man in such a way! He called himself the "Squirrel Whisperer" and that he is, as I will share a little later on.
The museum was lovely. Lots of parts I had remembered from going in previous years, but there was some new exhibits as well. One of the highlights for me was seeing the Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz. I had grown up wanting a pair. Actually, the pair. Not only that, but my dad got sent to Kansas on business when I was six or so, and I figured "Hey dad, could you bring me the Ruby Slippers back?".
Much to my dismay, he did not succeed. Sigh.
So, seeing them in front of me was absolutely amazing.
Some other highlights were the First Ladies' gowns and jewelry. There is just such amazing history to explore. I know our country isn't all that old, but it's just priceless to see items worn or made by people who came before us, and famous people at that!
After that, we decided to get some lunch, and seeing as the ridiculousness of the pricing in the cafe at the museum, we attempted the food court in the Old Post Office. It was alright.
Then we went on over to the National Museum of Natural History. This was probably the most incredible experience of the day. As we walked through the exhibits, I was simply amazed at how meticulous God is. I am serious. From the tiniest of bugs, to the beautiful crystals, to the gigantic bones of the dinousaurs, to the amazing depth of the ocean, to the history of our nation, there is so much life! And this world is teeming with creativity and detail, as well as brillant colors. And even in the simpliest of creatures, there is so much depth and forethought. How good God is to think of these types of creatures. It's such a wonder.
We walked on over to the photgraphy exhibit. And that was crazy amazing. First of all, the detail and the quality of the pictures was out of control! That was only second to the actual life that those pictures captured. And those photos could only capture the life that God Himself created.
I just wish I had more words for you to describe what we saw. We even sat there watching this video that was just a series of pictures of wildlife and such and thought how people could see this world and believe it all happened by chance!
The whole time I was there, I was thinking about how everything just glorified God!
After all this, we were pretty exhausted. So, we headed back. Our plan was to go to dinner at the Outback in Canton, mostly because I left my cell phone at Evie's house so we had to go that direction to pick it up anyways. On our walk back to the car, we see another squirrel and Dan decides to converse with this one as well...and then proceed to feed it. He had a bit of his overpriced cookie left over from lunch. He fed the animal once and then it kept coming closer and sitting up on it's hind legs until it decided Dan was taking too long to feed it again and takes a flying leap at him! Yes blogging friends, my boyfriend was attacked by a DC squirrel! We were in hysterical laughter for a good ten minutes about it too. Such humor!
So, we finally make it to dinner and it was so sweet. After a long day in and out of the cold and walking around, it was good to sit and take it all in and enjoy the company of each other as well as the food.
Then we headed back to his house to exchange gifts which was fun. We watched Top Chef, one of our weekly dates and then watched the Ravens win against the ruddy Cowboys!!
I ask you friends, could the day have gotten any better?
Here's the thing. The whole day was such a great time for Dan and I to connect, but even better was that I actually felt the presence of God with us. From everything our eyes took in that day that stimulated the senses and created a feast for the eyes, to the laughter we shared about that stupid squirrel, to the amazing food we inhaled at dinner, to the sweet ending of the day with our favorite show, to the fellowship we shared, to the beautifully cold winter day, to the unexpected Ravens' victory, God blessed it all.
Below is a funny commercial I found that sort of gives you an idea of what happened to Dan vs. The Squirrel, except this video still doesn't do it justice. It's much funnier in person. But, enjoy anyways. Hehehe.
25 Days of Christmas: Number 3
Number 4.
Christmas Eve night.
I love the anticipation. The cozy PJ's. The family in town. The Christmas movies on TV. The knowledge that there is nothing to do the next day!
Christmas Eve night.
I love the anticipation. The cozy PJ's. The family in town. The Christmas movies on TV. The knowledge that there is nothing to do the next day!
25 Days of Christmas: Number 4
Number 4.
Last minute shoppers.
This is really not so much something I enjoy about the holidays as so much it is that I find humorous. Why do men wait until the last minute? You wait and everything is gone off the shelves. You have to fight through more people than if you had gone weeks before. And, the prices are not really all that much better.
I worked at Bath and Body Works through the Christmas season (twice actually, I will save that story for another blog) and you would not believe the numbe ro fmen that would fly through around December 22-24 and ask what we had as far as gift baskets (the bigger the better). They would normally take my first suggestion. Done and done.
Wow dude. Such forethought! Such insight into your wife! She has found herself a gem!
Last minute shoppers.
This is really not so much something I enjoy about the holidays as so much it is that I find humorous. Why do men wait until the last minute? You wait and everything is gone off the shelves. You have to fight through more people than if you had gone weeks before. And, the prices are not really all that much better.
I worked at Bath and Body Works through the Christmas season (twice actually, I will save that story for another blog) and you would not believe the numbe ro fmen that would fly through around December 22-24 and ask what we had as far as gift baskets (the bigger the better). They would normally take my first suggestion. Done and done.
Wow dude. Such forethought! Such insight into your wife! She has found herself a gem!
25 Days of Christmas: Number 5
Number 5.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
A holiday classic for all to enjoy. How can you not learn to love the unlovable Grinch, when his heart grows three sizes in one day?
How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
A holiday classic for all to enjoy. How can you not learn to love the unlovable Grinch, when his heart grows three sizes in one day?
25 Days of Christmas: Number 6
Oh friends! How do I let so much time pass by these days? I blame Christmas. It's way too busy...with that said, I submit for your approval:
Number 6.
Time-off.
I look forward to Christmas Day. I look forward to family and friends, and even a few nice dinners with people, some presents, and cookie exchanges. But what I secretly long for every year? A string of days off with nothing planned really and nothing to do.
I remember the days of college, when I would finish my last exam with the "I'm so tired, my eyes are glazing over and my brain hurts from all the thinking" type of feelings and take the long journey home with the full expectation of sleeping off the exam stupor.
I would march into the house and instruct my mother..."Do not wake me. I am sleeping until I get up. I will not wake up for any phone calls, random questions, unexpected guests and the like!! Good night and good day!"
Much to my chagrin, my mother would inevitably slip into my oh so quiet and dark room at 6:45 in the morning and whisper sweetly into my ear..."what are you going to want for dinner?"
Couple things here:
Really mom? So early?
Second, how do I know what I want for dinner when it's not even breakfast?
Third, really mom?
Anywho, point being, one of the best parts of the 25 Days of Christmas is having that long stretch of days to sleep.
Amen? Amen. And goodnight.
Number 6.
Time-off.
I look forward to Christmas Day. I look forward to family and friends, and even a few nice dinners with people, some presents, and cookie exchanges. But what I secretly long for every year? A string of days off with nothing planned really and nothing to do.
I remember the days of college, when I would finish my last exam with the "I'm so tired, my eyes are glazing over and my brain hurts from all the thinking" type of feelings and take the long journey home with the full expectation of sleeping off the exam stupor.
I would march into the house and instruct my mother..."Do not wake me. I am sleeping until I get up. I will not wake up for any phone calls, random questions, unexpected guests and the like!! Good night and good day!"
Much to my chagrin, my mother would inevitably slip into my oh so quiet and dark room at 6:45 in the morning and whisper sweetly into my ear..."what are you going to want for dinner?"
Couple things here:
Really mom? So early?
Second, how do I know what I want for dinner when it's not even breakfast?
Third, really mom?
Anywho, point being, one of the best parts of the 25 Days of Christmas is having that long stretch of days to sleep.
Amen? Amen. And goodnight.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Now Time For Deep Thoughts By Jenny Baldwin
Ok, so much of the time I have random thoughts that flow through my head like wine...or some other liquidy analogy. And normally, I find it rather enjoyable sharing these random thoughts with you, my dear blogger friend. Mostly, I thought I was writing to just share my thoughts on things and that no one really cared if this website even existed. I have come to find that JB has gone international! That's right friends!! People from all over the globe seem to find some worth in this silly blog.
I have also come to find that since I have lacked time to blog uselessly (I blame no one but myself), the thoughts in my head have just been increasingly building and it's as if I am about to explode if I do not release the "beast" so to speak.
Basically, this blog has become quite a compulsion (am I ok with this? I don't really know. Are you ok with this? I hope so.) of sorts. A need. Like, if i don't blog uselessly, then the thoughts continue to swarm around in my head until I do! Ok, before you check me into some sort of mental hospital for my weirdness, you have to admit...you enjoy the useless ramblings of a "self proclaimed hyper hypo". So, here are some thoughts of randomness that have just been needing to get out for the last few weeks that I would have blogged on if time was not an issue, so here they are in no particular order:
Some of my new favorite sites include:
the Urban Dictionary (urbandictionary.com)
To Write Love on Her Arms (twloha.com)
My new favorite singer is Ingrid Michaelson. I have liked her for a while, but have recently listened to all her albums and can't seem to stop. I am actually listening to albums all the way through on my ipod! Dan would be so proud! Normally, I bounce around from artist to artist, while he listens to a complete album before moving on to the next.
I have decided I need to always write down my plans or I will either forget them or double book myself. Actually, I am good at writing things down, it's just making sure I check the calendar before saying yes or no to plans. Learning this the hard way...sorry Dan, sorry girls.
Here is a picture of me and Dan for those of you who keep asking...(I am wearing an ugly Christmas sweater for our Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at church. I swear!!!)
I have also come to find that since I have lacked time to blog uselessly (I blame no one but myself), the thoughts in my head have just been increasingly building and it's as if I am about to explode if I do not release the "beast" so to speak.
Basically, this blog has become quite a compulsion (am I ok with this? I don't really know. Are you ok with this? I hope so.) of sorts. A need. Like, if i don't blog uselessly, then the thoughts continue to swarm around in my head until I do! Ok, before you check me into some sort of mental hospital for my weirdness, you have to admit...you enjoy the useless ramblings of a "self proclaimed hyper hypo". So, here are some thoughts of randomness that have just been needing to get out for the last few weeks that I would have blogged on if time was not an issue, so here they are in no particular order:
Some of my new favorite sites include:
the Urban Dictionary (urbandictionary.com)
To Write Love on Her Arms (twloha.com)
My new favorite singer is Ingrid Michaelson. I have liked her for a while, but have recently listened to all her albums and can't seem to stop. I am actually listening to albums all the way through on my ipod! Dan would be so proud! Normally, I bounce around from artist to artist, while he listens to a complete album before moving on to the next.
I have decided I need to always write down my plans or I will either forget them or double book myself. Actually, I am good at writing things down, it's just making sure I check the calendar before saying yes or no to plans. Learning this the hard way...sorry Dan, sorry girls.
Here is a picture of me and Dan for those of you who keep asking...(I am wearing an ugly Christmas sweater for our Ugly Christmas Sweater Party at church. I swear!!!)
I have eaten my weight in chocolate this month. I will be in need of a cleansing soon.
I started watching some neighbor's kids across the street on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Evie and I go over there in the morning and stay until 1:00. I have never in all my days been more embarrassed every single time I leave this woman's house. Here is a list of the embarrassing moments thus far:
-had to call Emily to tell her I was puking in her kitchen sink and needed a reprieve
-Emily told me to just walk in when Evie and I come over, since she is normally getting ready in her room for work. This morning, I did just that, and happened upon her husband (normally he is already at work) half naked in the living room brushing his teeth :(
-clogged her toliet after she specifically told me that the downstairs toliet will clog at even the littlest bit of tissue...but that's not what got clogged :( after much plunging...I still couldn't get it to all go down and had to leave it for her husband...
double :( :(
-gave her newborn baby Tylenol when she was teething, only to find out Emily had already given it to her and forgot to tell me she had...so not so much my fault, but still...I DRUGGED HER BABY! (she was fine, just a liiiiiiiiiiitle groggy)
I caught Evie and her friend Connor sneaking a snack the other day. After I had specifically told them they could not have one (lunch was just around the corner). I caught them hiding behind the kitchen table with a bowl and a bag of goldfish, just as happy as clams snacking away. First off, they were so cute about it. Second, so quiet. And third, so clean! The bowl guys, really? They had to sneak up onto the counter to get the bowl and the goldfish, so they went to great lengths to make sure I didn't get angry about the mess AND their out of control snacking. I would have snapped a photo if I had the time.
I have been asked to explain the "Self-Proclaimed Hyper Hypo". Basically, if you know me... then hyper doesn't really begin to cover my extensive excitement and zest for life and all things random and silly. The "hypo" is just the word hypochondriac, shortened. Ahhh, something you may not have known about me?? Yes, I have a fear that I am dying of all sorts of crazy diseases. While not clinically diagnosed as such, I have been told that from friends and family since the womb. My neurosis more than likely stems from my brother's hypochondria, as I am told he basically raised me (by the time I came along, my mom had enough of the childrearing). While you will probably just see me researching various diseases on webmd.com, Timmy actually has medical books in his home that he resources when he has a slight fever or rash. I may or may not have gotten better over the years about this. One thing I know is this, I aced my Pathophysiology course (the study of diseases) because of all the research I have done on myself and my various issues!!
Ok, friends. Talk to you never again, now that you know I am legitimately odd. It's been nice blogging with you.. But, if you decided to stick around, I have been doing a lot of catching up on my blogging...so continue to read on. I have added about three more blogs today.
Starbucks Church.
So, I saw my dad last night. He rolled into Maryland for a day or two, before heading to Virginia to be with my sister and her family. While he was here, he met Dan. So, that was great. Also, he shared this video with us...it's a little more than 5 minutes, but it's worth your time. Promise. Enjoy.
25 Days of Christmas: Number 7
Number 7.
Mistletoe.
First things first...I can't believe it's Christmas Day in ONE week. Are you ready? Ready for the gifts? Ready for the family (eek)? Ready for Jesus' birth? Good.
I think I am.
Mistletoe. What a wonderous, mysterious tradition we have found in mistletoe. I don't quite understand the story behind it. Let's just discuss what it actually is:
Mistletoe is a poisonous plant that causes acute gatrointestinal problems including stomach pain, and diarrhea along with low pulse
Regardless, I think it's a fun and exciting tradition.
Here's why we kiss under this poisonous plant...
According to a custom of Christmas cheer, any two people who meet under a hanging of mistletoe are obliged to kiss. The custom is Scandinavian in origin.[12] It was the plant of peace in Scandinavian antiquity. If enemies met by chance beneath it in a forest, they laid down their arms and maintained a truce until the next day." This ancient Scandinavian custom led to the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe.
* I found this information at http://http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mistletoe
Mistletoe.
First things first...I can't believe it's Christmas Day in ONE week. Are you ready? Ready for the gifts? Ready for the family (eek)? Ready for Jesus' birth? Good.
I think I am.
Mistletoe. What a wonderous, mysterious tradition we have found in mistletoe. I don't quite understand the story behind it. Let's just discuss what it actually is:
Mistletoe is a poisonous plant that causes acute gatrointestinal problems including stomach pain, and diarrhea along with low pulse
Regardless, I think it's a fun and exciting tradition.
Here's why we kiss under this poisonous plant...
According to a custom of Christmas cheer, any two people who meet under a hanging of mistletoe are obliged to kiss. The custom is Scandinavian in origin.[12] It was the plant of peace in Scandinavian antiquity. If enemies met by chance beneath it in a forest, they laid down their arms and maintained a truce until the next day." This ancient Scandinavian custom led to the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe.
* I found this information at http://http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mistletoe
25 Days of Christmas: Number 8
Number 8.
Christmas chachki.
The Urban Dictionary defines chachki as the following (number 2 is my favorite):
1. chachki
Trinket, useless sentimental stuff filling up your book cases and counter space, miscellaneous items collected and set out to enhance your decor, stuff you should probably box up or sell in a garage sale, things kids take when their parents pass away because it reminds them of good times past.
2. chachki
Some type of knick-knack, but usually a piece of crap; usually a small piece of junk.
I just like saying the word "chachki". It's a fun word I picked up from my sister-in-law. No, she is not uncool, she is tres cool actually. She super urban as well. Lol. She just used that word a lot when I was growing up, so I have since used it a lot as well. But, I digress.
I love little Christmas knick-knacks. The tackier the better. Ok, maybe that's not entirely true, but I have since learned to appreciate having a little Christmas craziness spewed throughout the house. When you fill your house with Christmas stuff, you can't help but smile at the difference the added Christmas chachki adds to your home. Such warmth, such love.
Christmas chachki.
The Urban Dictionary defines chachki as the following (number 2 is my favorite):
1. chachki
Trinket, useless sentimental stuff filling up your book cases and counter space, miscellaneous items collected and set out to enhance your decor, stuff you should probably box up or sell in a garage sale, things kids take when their parents pass away because it reminds them of good times past.
2. chachki
Some type of knick-knack, but usually a piece of crap; usually a small piece of junk.
I just like saying the word "chachki". It's a fun word I picked up from my sister-in-law. No, she is not uncool, she is tres cool actually. She super urban as well. Lol. She just used that word a lot when I was growing up, so I have since used it a lot as well. But, I digress.
I love little Christmas knick-knacks. The tackier the better. Ok, maybe that's not entirely true, but I have since learned to appreciate having a little Christmas craziness spewed throughout the house. When you fill your house with Christmas stuff, you can't help but smile at the difference the added Christmas chachki adds to your home. Such warmth, such love.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 9
Number 9.
The Real Meaning of Christmas.
Saw this video this morning and thought it was cool and had an amazing message attatched. Think about it:
The Real Meaning of Christmas.
Saw this video this morning and thought it was cool and had an amazing message attatched. Think about it:
Monday, December 15, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 10
Number 10.
Baking a birthday cake for Jesus.
I started doing this with my little friends at the day care I worked at a few years ago. I enjoyed making a big deal about the fact that we are celebrating Jesus' birthday. I know I am not the first to do this, but it felt special and different to come from that angle with the kids I had in my class. It was exciting to make a big deal about the fact that we were just having a big birthday party, instead of making it about us, it was now focused on Jesus.
Baking a birthday cake for Jesus.
I started doing this with my little friends at the day care I worked at a few years ago. I enjoyed making a big deal about the fact that we are celebrating Jesus' birthday. I know I am not the first to do this, but it felt special and different to come from that angle with the kids I had in my class. It was exciting to make a big deal about the fact that we were just having a big birthday party, instead of making it about us, it was now focused on Jesus.
25 Days of Christmas: Number 11
Number 11.
Singing Christmas Carols in Church.
I love that at Christmas time, we get a whole new set of worship songs to sing. I suppose they are not new or anything, but they have not been sung in a year or so (unless you are like me and every once in while just listen to one or two throughout the year). I love that they are just as special and even more lovely as we approach Christmas.
Singing Christmas Carols in Church.
I love that at Christmas time, we get a whole new set of worship songs to sing. I suppose they are not new or anything, but they have not been sung in a year or so (unless you are like me and every once in while just listen to one or two throughout the year). I love that they are just as special and even more lovely as we approach Christmas.
25 Days of Christmas: Number 12
Number 12.
Chirstmas lights.
I love white Christmas lights. I do. I like having them on inside the house, with no other light for illumination. I pretty much abhore bright lights of any type. I thank Timmy and Sarah for that weirdness. Anything over 25 watts is too much for me in the evening. Anywho, Christmas lights provide the perfect amount of light. And they are so pretty. I used to dislike the colored ones, thinking that they were totally uncool, but I have since changed my mind. It's really not too bad having cool old fashioned lights to illuminate the indoors or outdoors. I almost want to keep them up year round. I used to do that in college, but since I have been out, I have grown up and realized they are called Christmas lights for a reason.
Chirstmas lights.
I love white Christmas lights. I do. I like having them on inside the house, with no other light for illumination. I pretty much abhore bright lights of any type. I thank Timmy and Sarah for that weirdness. Anything over 25 watts is too much for me in the evening. Anywho, Christmas lights provide the perfect amount of light. And they are so pretty. I used to dislike the colored ones, thinking that they were totally uncool, but I have since changed my mind. It's really not too bad having cool old fashioned lights to illuminate the indoors or outdoors. I almost want to keep them up year round. I used to do that in college, but since I have been out, I have grown up and realized they are called Christmas lights for a reason.
25 Days of Christmas: Number 13
Again, apologies for this taking a few days. I had a very busy weekend. So, without further ado I give you:
Number 13.
Elf.
"Buddy the Elf, what's your favoite color?"
"We can make snow angels and then we can cuddle."
"I love smiling, smiling's my favorite."
These are just a few of the many quotes that this fun Christmas movie has to offer. And, I dare say that by the time I marry, birth children, and they get all grown-up, this movie will be a classic. One in which they will recall with much delight as they discuss it with their childhood friends, how much they enjoyed watching this "classic". Enjoy this little snack:
Number 13.
Elf.
"Buddy the Elf, what's your favoite color?"
"We can make snow angels and then we can cuddle."
"I love smiling, smiling's my favorite."
These are just a few of the many quotes that this fun Christmas movie has to offer. And, I dare say that by the time I marry, birth children, and they get all grown-up, this movie will be a classic. One in which they will recall with much delight as they discuss it with their childhood friends, how much they enjoyed watching this "classic". Enjoy this little snack:
Thursday, December 11, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 14
Number 14.
O Holy Night.
I was in my car this morning driving to work and I was listening to "O Holy Night" on my ipod. It was the version sung by Avril Lavigne and Chantal Kreviazuk. It's actually a beautiful version of this song.
This is my favorite Christmas Carol. Absolute favorite. But this morning I was really listening to the lyrics and thinking about them and I just started crying. When I actually went through it line by line, I was just so in awe of God and the simplicity of the gospel. So, I thought I would share the insight I got this morning.
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
The star that pointed the Wisemen towards the birthplace of Jesus. It shown clear and bright that night. And Jesus, He still shines like that star. Pointing people towards Him. Yes, the cliche is true. Wisemen still do seek Him.
It is the night of our dear Savior's birth.
It is Jesus' birth we celebrate. A Savior came. To seek and save what was lost. He came as a baby. So, why has it become about me and what I want?
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
Yes, the world needed a Savior. Yes, I need a Savior. I need someone to come and save me everyday from my own wretchedness. I am quite literally pining for someone to rescue me. Just like this world still aches for Someone to come and whisk it away from the pits it has dug.
'Til He appear'd and the soul felt its worth.
He appeared and now I have been rescued from my sin. The sin that entangles me. For the first time, I have a purpose. I know that I am loved. He has placed a value on me because He created me and then came to save me and give me worth. To finally live my life for a reason and not just for me.
Truly He taught us to love one another;
"Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Matthew 22:37-40
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
His gospel is peace. Peace. Oh, the simplicity of it all. He is peace. Peace with each other. Peace within oursleves. Peace in our circumstances. Peace in Him.
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother;
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
He came to bind up the broken hearted. To release prisoners. To set the captive free. Yes, he came to restore us to a right relationship with Him. And yes, we should look at others as our brother or sister. But He came to preach this good news that there is freedom from the chains of addiction and sin.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name.
They are so sweet to sing. To worship God for all He has done. We worship Him for who He is, but we remember His gospel, His peace, His freedom, His love.
Christ is the Lord! O praise His Name forever,
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
Forever. And ever. His glory will reign. He is the King. Praise God that He is Sovreign over it all. And for that reason, we have peace. We proclaim this King and His gospel because our souls have finally found worth.
It's the gospel message in the form of a Christmas song. It's the most beautiful message ever. Think about it. I hope it penetrates your heart this year.
O Holy Night.
I was in my car this morning driving to work and I was listening to "O Holy Night" on my ipod. It was the version sung by Avril Lavigne and Chantal Kreviazuk. It's actually a beautiful version of this song.
This is my favorite Christmas Carol. Absolute favorite. But this morning I was really listening to the lyrics and thinking about them and I just started crying. When I actually went through it line by line, I was just so in awe of God and the simplicity of the gospel. So, I thought I would share the insight I got this morning.
O holy night! The stars are brightly shining,
The star that pointed the Wisemen towards the birthplace of Jesus. It shown clear and bright that night. And Jesus, He still shines like that star. Pointing people towards Him. Yes, the cliche is true. Wisemen still do seek Him.
It is the night of our dear Savior's birth.
It is Jesus' birth we celebrate. A Savior came. To seek and save what was lost. He came as a baby. So, why has it become about me and what I want?
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
Yes, the world needed a Savior. Yes, I need a Savior. I need someone to come and save me everyday from my own wretchedness. I am quite literally pining for someone to rescue me. Just like this world still aches for Someone to come and whisk it away from the pits it has dug.
'Til He appear'd and the soul felt its worth.
He appeared and now I have been rescued from my sin. The sin that entangles me. For the first time, I have a purpose. I know that I am loved. He has placed a value on me because He created me and then came to save me and give me worth. To finally live my life for a reason and not just for me.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
On that day, there was a new hope! He is finally here! And, on the day that I finally accepted Him into my heart, there was a thrill of hope. Finally. Finally, I had been rescued. Finally, I could start hoping for a new future. Finally, I could rest assuredly that I was loved. His mercies are made new every morning. Praise God that I don't have to go back to my old ways. Praise God that there is always hope!
Fall on your knees! O, hear the angels' voices!
Repentance. In a nutshell. What is my natural response for when I finally can see the Truth? When I wipe away all the tears of frustration? Wipe away the sin? Wipe away myself? The only thing to do is to fall on my knees in prayer. In repentance and rest is my salvation. And hear the angel's voices glorifying Jesus. Singing songs of joy! Just like we do when we finally get it.
O night divine, O night when Christ was born;
O night divine, O night, O night Divine.
It was a divine night indeed. It was set apart. For the Savior had finally entered the world. He was here, the one that had been the desire of the nations. The one that prophets foretold of His coming.
Truly He taught us to love one another;
"Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."
Matthew 22:37-40
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
His gospel is peace. Peace. Oh, the simplicity of it all. He is peace. Peace with each other. Peace within oursleves. Peace in our circumstances. Peace in Him.
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother;
And in His name all oppression shall cease.
He came to bind up the broken hearted. To release prisoners. To set the captive free. Yes, he came to restore us to a right relationship with Him. And yes, we should look at others as our brother or sister. But He came to preach this good news that there is freedom from the chains of addiction and sin.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy name.
They are so sweet to sing. To worship God for all He has done. We worship Him for who He is, but we remember His gospel, His peace, His freedom, His love.
Christ is the Lord! O praise His Name forever,
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
His power and glory evermore proclaim.
Forever. And ever. His glory will reign. He is the King. Praise God that He is Sovreign over it all. And for that reason, we have peace. We proclaim this King and His gospel because our souls have finally found worth.
It's the gospel message in the form of a Christmas song. It's the most beautiful message ever. Think about it. I hope it penetrates your heart this year.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 15
Number 15.
Giving.
I love to give gifts. Normally, the more unexpected the gift is, the more I enjoy it. Sure, I love that my brother-in-law gives me a list of things he wants this year for Christmas after he finds out I pulled his name. I enjoy knowing what people want and then being able to give them well...exactly what they want.
But, I would MUCH rather give you a gift on a random day. When you are least expecting it. When there is no obligation for you to give back. When it is a normal day and there is no expectation for me to give. I love to give.
Giving is good. Always. And, I do love to give on Christmas. I do. It's fun and special. But, hear's a thought...why not give year round?
Giving.
I love to give gifts. Normally, the more unexpected the gift is, the more I enjoy it. Sure, I love that my brother-in-law gives me a list of things he wants this year for Christmas after he finds out I pulled his name. I enjoy knowing what people want and then being able to give them well...exactly what they want.
But, I would MUCH rather give you a gift on a random day. When you are least expecting it. When there is no obligation for you to give back. When it is a normal day and there is no expectation for me to give. I love to give.
Giving is good. Always. And, I do love to give on Christmas. I do. It's fun and special. But, hear's a thought...why not give year round?
25 Days of Christmas: Number 16
Ok, I realize I am behind in my postings. My apologies. But, life has a way of sneaking up on you and sucking up all your time...anywho...
Number 16.
Starbucks.
I love Starbucks on a normal day, I do. Even with it's ridiculous prices. I sometimes go out of my way to hit one up. Except, since living in Baltimore, it's hard to "go out of my way to hit one up" because there is one literally every few miles.
I love that Starbucks comes alive around Christmas. The decorations go up, the merchandise changes, the drinks become Christmas themed, and even the cups are decked out in yuletide joy. Love it. Love it.
Number 16.
Starbucks.
I love Starbucks on a normal day, I do. Even with it's ridiculous prices. I sometimes go out of my way to hit one up. Except, since living in Baltimore, it's hard to "go out of my way to hit one up" because there is one literally every few miles.
I love that Starbucks comes alive around Christmas. The decorations go up, the merchandise changes, the drinks become Christmas themed, and even the cups are decked out in yuletide joy. Love it. Love it.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
I'm a Little Lad Who Loves Berries and Creeeeeam...
Posting this for various reasons:
1) It's hilarious.
2) I want you to enjoy it as well.
3) I always have my reasons.
Enjoy.
1) It's hilarious.
2) I want you to enjoy it as well.
3) I always have my reasons.
Enjoy.
Monday, December 8, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 17
Number 17.
After Christmas Sales. Especially, Crate and Barrel.
I don't like to wake up early for much. Work is about it. Possibly if I have a long drive ahead of me.
But what I will get up early for is the After Christmas Sale at Crate and Barrel. It's so worth it. Quite literally, everything in the store is half off. It's great. And, usually I am blessed with a gift card on Christmas Day.
I can go and spend money I don't have on things I don't need, that will more than likely sit in a box until next Christmas! But I don't really care because it's one of the main events of the Christmas season for me.
After Christmas Sales. Especially, Crate and Barrel.
I don't like to wake up early for much. Work is about it. Possibly if I have a long drive ahead of me.
But what I will get up early for is the After Christmas Sale at Crate and Barrel. It's so worth it. Quite literally, everything in the store is half off. It's great. And, usually I am blessed with a gift card on Christmas Day.
I can go and spend money I don't have on things I don't need, that will more than likely sit in a box until next Christmas! But I don't really care because it's one of the main events of the Christmas season for me.
25 Days of Christmas: Number 18
Number 18.
Chevy Chases' Christmas Vacation.
Ok, so it's not the Christmas season unless I watch Chevy Chases' Christmas Vacation.
It's just so hilarious.
Cousin Eddie.
The Crazy Grandparents.
The cat wrapped into the box.
Squirrel in the tree.
The lights that don't seem to work.
Aunt Bethany's lack of hearing.
The sled scene.
I mean it's absolutely ridiculous to think all this stuff could happen to this poor family, but it makes for great comedy. And, my family has been watching it for years. I distinctly remember my father laughing sooooo hard at one of the scenes, that we actually had to turn the movie off until he could finally contain himself.
Love it. Love it.
Enjoy the trailer...
Chevy Chases' Christmas Vacation.
Ok, so it's not the Christmas season unless I watch Chevy Chases' Christmas Vacation.
It's just so hilarious.
Cousin Eddie.
The Crazy Grandparents.
The cat wrapped into the box.
Squirrel in the tree.
The lights that don't seem to work.
Aunt Bethany's lack of hearing.
The sled scene.
I mean it's absolutely ridiculous to think all this stuff could happen to this poor family, but it makes for great comedy. And, my family has been watching it for years. I distinctly remember my father laughing sooooo hard at one of the scenes, that we actually had to turn the movie off until he could finally contain himself.
Love it. Love it.
Enjoy the trailer...
25 Days of Christmas: Number 19
Number 19.
The "Peppermint Song".
One year, Tori and I always seemed to be in the car when we heard these lyrics:
"so leave a peppermint stick
for Old St. Nick
hanging on the Christmas tree
it's the holiday season
and whooped-de-do
and hickory dock
and don't forget
to hang up your sock
cause just exactly
at twelve o'clock
he'll be coming down
the chimney down"
My apologies for not knowing the actual title of the aforementioned song. We just always seemed to hear it. Literally, every stinkin' time. So, we sort of adopted it as our own little Christmas song. Every time I hear it now, I think of her and that specific time in our friendship.
Tori, what a sweet time that was. A real bonding experience for us I should say. You see friends, we were the ones heading up the planning for a huge party for our brothers. Every year we would do an appreciation for the guys in the fall/winter and then they would do one for us in the spring. Tori and I decided to tackle the project because the one the girls did the year before was pretty heinous. We wanted to make sure the guys in our group knew they were loved and appreciated, so as we spent countless hours out purchasing things for the night...our song would play!
Love you Tori!!!
The "Peppermint Song".
One year, Tori and I always seemed to be in the car when we heard these lyrics:
"so leave a peppermint stick
for Old St. Nick
hanging on the Christmas tree
it's the holiday season
and whooped-de-do
and hickory dock
and don't forget
to hang up your sock
cause just exactly
at twelve o'clock
he'll be coming down
the chimney down"
My apologies for not knowing the actual title of the aforementioned song. We just always seemed to hear it. Literally, every stinkin' time. So, we sort of adopted it as our own little Christmas song. Every time I hear it now, I think of her and that specific time in our friendship.
Tori, what a sweet time that was. A real bonding experience for us I should say. You see friends, we were the ones heading up the planning for a huge party for our brothers. Every year we would do an appreciation for the guys in the fall/winter and then they would do one for us in the spring. Tori and I decided to tackle the project because the one the girls did the year before was pretty heinous. We wanted to make sure the guys in our group knew they were loved and appreciated, so as we spent countless hours out purchasing things for the night...our song would play!
Love you Tori!!!
Friday, December 5, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 20
Number 20.
Lottery Tickets.
Every year on Christmas Eve, my mom's mom (Grandma "Pud" as we liked to call her) would purchase a loooooooot of Christmas lottery tickets. She was a reagular Bingo player and would often hit up the local store for lottery tickets throughout the year. If we happened to be with her, she would buy a few for us.
Some grandparents spoil their grandchildren with sweets, others with toys.
Grandma Pud? No, she would hand us her credit card, drop us off at the mall, and tell us to
"buy yourselves something nice".
We would come home with bags of fun stuff. Gobs of clothes and the like (Yes, way to go Grandma for teaching us such healthy spending habits).
She would also tell us to "hide the bags so Grandpa didn't see".
My Grandfather, a local retired sailor and postman, would always be found on his Lazy Boy watching the ball game.
Unbeknownst to him that his grandchildren were frolicking around with his wife's credit cards, would hand us a $5 dollar bill and tell us the same thing before we hit the mall..."buy yourselves something nice" he would say. Lol.
But, I digress.
So, yes. My Grandma was also the type to give us scratch off tickets every Chrismas Eve.
After she died, my mother took on the tradition. It's a fun one that has been passed on to us. Even my brother-in-law and sister-in-law get excited for some lottery action!!
Lottery Tickets.
Every year on Christmas Eve, my mom's mom (Grandma "Pud" as we liked to call her) would purchase a loooooooot of Christmas lottery tickets. She was a reagular Bingo player and would often hit up the local store for lottery tickets throughout the year. If we happened to be with her, she would buy a few for us.
Some grandparents spoil their grandchildren with sweets, others with toys.
Grandma Pud? No, she would hand us her credit card, drop us off at the mall, and tell us to
"buy yourselves something nice".
We would come home with bags of fun stuff. Gobs of clothes and the like (Yes, way to go Grandma for teaching us such healthy spending habits).
She would also tell us to "hide the bags so Grandpa didn't see".
My Grandfather, a local retired sailor and postman, would always be found on his Lazy Boy watching the ball game.
Unbeknownst to him that his grandchildren were frolicking around with his wife's credit cards, would hand us a $5 dollar bill and tell us the same thing before we hit the mall..."buy yourselves something nice" he would say. Lol.
But, I digress.
So, yes. My Grandma was also the type to give us scratch off tickets every Chrismas Eve.
After she died, my mother took on the tradition. It's a fun one that has been passed on to us. Even my brother-in-law and sister-in-law get excited for some lottery action!!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 21
Number 21.
The 25 Days of Christmas.
Did she just make a typo? Nope. I most certainly did not. One of my favorite parts of this holiday season is ABC Family's "25 Days of Christmas". Every night from December 1-December 25, they feature a Christmas movie. Sometimes it's an old one like Home Alone, The Grinch, The Santa Claus, or Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Sometimes it's an old made for TV movie about some cute love story between a single mom who meets one of Santa's elves and falls in love ( I realize the cheese factor in such movies, but they make for delightful, light hearted entertainment).
And, sometimes it's a new made for TV movie about some tree vendor who has nothing to offer the woman he is falling in love with for Christmas except his heart, but she can't accept his lack of wealth, and then there is some sort of conflict between the two, but then she comes to her senses and realizes that she has missed out on the Christmas spirit, and they meet under the snowcapped trees in the end and kiss when they finally realize they were meant for each other.
Ok, I guess I have seen one too many of these B-rated films, but whatever. The point, my dear blogging friends, is that nothing brings in the Christmas Cheer than by curling up and watching a fun Christmas movie.
The 25 Days of Christmas.
Did she just make a typo? Nope. I most certainly did not. One of my favorite parts of this holiday season is ABC Family's "25 Days of Christmas". Every night from December 1-December 25, they feature a Christmas movie. Sometimes it's an old one like Home Alone, The Grinch, The Santa Claus, or Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Sometimes it's an old made for TV movie about some cute love story between a single mom who meets one of Santa's elves and falls in love ( I realize the cheese factor in such movies, but they make for delightful, light hearted entertainment).
And, sometimes it's a new made for TV movie about some tree vendor who has nothing to offer the woman he is falling in love with for Christmas except his heart, but she can't accept his lack of wealth, and then there is some sort of conflict between the two, but then she comes to her senses and realizes that she has missed out on the Christmas spirit, and they meet under the snowcapped trees in the end and kiss when they finally realize they were meant for each other.
Ok, I guess I have seen one too many of these B-rated films, but whatever. The point, my dear blogging friends, is that nothing brings in the Christmas Cheer than by curling up and watching a fun Christmas movie.
Hide and Seek
So, cute story I needed to share with you all from this morning.
I happened to be in a good mood when I walked into Evie's house this morning. Not that I am normally not or anything, but I was in an unusually great mood this morning. Maybe it was the caffine? Maybe the amazing time with God this morning? Maybe a combo? Maybe I am 100% back to my healthy self? Who knows. What I do know is that Evie and I were playing a quick game of hide and seek. It was not a normal game though.
As she stood right in front of me, I would simply cover my eyes and inquire:
"Where is Evie?"
She, seeing that my eyes were covered, would run away from me down the hall a little bit and then run back as I continued to ask where she was. When I knew she was close, I would uncover my eyes and shriek with delight and say, "I found her! She's right here!! I thought I lost her!!" I would give her a hug or two, some kisses and then she would say "Evie" which in her language means..."do it again Jenny".
We did this a few times, until I got tired of playing the game.
And then it hit me.
This is just like how God is with me.
When I cover my eyes, I know exactly where Evie is. Be it her clunky shoes hitting the hard wood or the fact that she giggles the whole way away from me, I just know where she is. Even if God "covers" his eyes, He knows where we are at all times. There is no hiding from him. And just like Evie, I run away from him, maybe even giggling with delight over the sin I am running towards. Over and over and over again. Until I remember that it is so good to be found by Him and I run back in absolute delight, giggling now because I am running towards Him knowing He will be happy with my return.
And God, in His mercy, uncovers His eyes and shrieks with delight "There you are!!" and embraces me in absolute adoration.
It doesn't matter how many times I run away. He knows where I am.
It doesn't matter how many times I return. He is delighted everytime I choose to come back to His arms.
And unlike me, God doesn't get tired of the Hide and Seek Game.
I happened to be in a good mood when I walked into Evie's house this morning. Not that I am normally not or anything, but I was in an unusually great mood this morning. Maybe it was the caffine? Maybe the amazing time with God this morning? Maybe a combo? Maybe I am 100% back to my healthy self? Who knows. What I do know is that Evie and I were playing a quick game of hide and seek. It was not a normal game though.
As she stood right in front of me, I would simply cover my eyes and inquire:
"Where is Evie?"
She, seeing that my eyes were covered, would run away from me down the hall a little bit and then run back as I continued to ask where she was. When I knew she was close, I would uncover my eyes and shriek with delight and say, "I found her! She's right here!! I thought I lost her!!" I would give her a hug or two, some kisses and then she would say "Evie" which in her language means..."do it again Jenny".
We did this a few times, until I got tired of playing the game.
And then it hit me.
This is just like how God is with me.
When I cover my eyes, I know exactly where Evie is. Be it her clunky shoes hitting the hard wood or the fact that she giggles the whole way away from me, I just know where she is. Even if God "covers" his eyes, He knows where we are at all times. There is no hiding from him. And just like Evie, I run away from him, maybe even giggling with delight over the sin I am running towards. Over and over and over again. Until I remember that it is so good to be found by Him and I run back in absolute delight, giggling now because I am running towards Him knowing He will be happy with my return.
And God, in His mercy, uncovers His eyes and shrieks with delight "There you are!!" and embraces me in absolute adoration.
It doesn't matter how many times I run away. He knows where I am.
It doesn't matter how many times I return. He is delighted everytime I choose to come back to His arms.
And unlike me, God doesn't get tired of the Hide and Seek Game.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 22
Number 22.
Mariah Carey's song "All I Want for Christmas Is You".
Now normally when discussing Mariah Carey, I will deny my admiration for her on a regular day. I will even go as far as to call her Mariah Scarey. Because friends, well, she is...
First things first. What nationality is she? Mexican? African American? A little of both? Not too sure.
But, what I am sure of is this...
I love her Christmas jingle "All I Want For Christmas Is You". It's so money. There is no denying it. You can't get through the holiday season without hearing it played on the radio or in a store. It's become the quintessential (I love it when I can use that word) Christmas song.
It's fabulous.
It's fierce (to quote Christian from Project Runway).
And ironically, I was emailing my wonderful Tori today and she even brought up how much she loved this song without even knowing I was planning on blogging about it already (get out of my head Tori!!!). Just goes to show you, it's quite a cultural phenomenon.
I have even over heard my mom blasting it in her car or singing to it will she cooks. Haha. It's just that great.
I have heard Timmy singing along to it as he neurotically cleans (although that's not quite unusual for him to listen to pop music...or clean for that matter, please see my blog entitled Perfectly Imperfect for details).
I Don't Even Know What To Title This Craziness...
The last 48 hours of my life were pretty wretched, although it makes for a witty, exciting blog. It started with my commute to work on Monday. On a normal morning, I can cruise on 83 for the first 5 miles or so until I hit the Northern Parkway exit and then we slow down to a turtle's pace for the rest of the journey.
On a day like Monday, it was literally bumper to bumper traffic the moment I got on 83. I have noticed that this phenomenon occurs about once every two weeks on average. It is usually due to some small fender bender...but on Monday what was the issue?
The fender bender was on the OTHER side of the median friends. Yes, traffic on my side of the Jones Fall Expressway was not merging into one lane, or having to go around police cars or flares. Nope. We were all just a bunch of nosey people wanting to see the action on the other side of the road.
Side Note: I will always maintain that if you are not going to get out to help, say a quick prayer, or call 911 then what is the point??? Really. Why my sweet Lord in Heaven, why do we have to rubber neck? There's just NO NEED!
The rest of the day went pretty smoothly until my commute home. I had foolishly decided to drink not one, but two large glasses of water and then top it all off with a diet soda. Good idea, JB?
Wrong-o.
I was stuck in so much traffic that evening. I was almost in tears as I watched us move at a snail's pace. Much like the morning commute, my last few miles on 695 are pretty fast moving on a normal evening. But on this particular night. It literally took me 20 minutes to go about a mile. I am not kidding.
So, here I was. In tears. Clamping. Wiggling. Tempted to pee in the empty Dunkin Donuts cup. Wanting to just take any exit, but 695 was such a parking lot, it would have taken me just as long to scoot off on another exit, especially since there is only one or so before my exit as soon as I merge onto it.
Oh friends. It was awful.
Literally, I parked when I got home, ran upstairs to my apartment and screamed as I passed my roommate on the couch (whom I have not seen in days due to the Thanksgiving holiday)
"CAN'T TALK. GOTTA PEE. CAN'T TALK. GOTTA PEEEEEE!!!"
Believe me, she's used to my silly tactics.
Ok, fast forward to Tuesday morning. Praying that the commute would be easier, I was excited that we were moving quickly, even around the Northern Parkway madness.
But then we get to Lombard Street. My right hand turn into the city. But on Tuesday, there was a police barracade blocking the way. Immediately, I am thinking:
1) Uhhh, I don't know any other way to turn into the city (I'm like a trained seal. A one-trick pony. A creature of habit, so to speak. Teach me to do it one way and that's pretty much how I will do it every time). So, ummm what now?
2) Everyone else is going to have the same idea (do a U-turn so that we can turn into the city on Fayette Street instead)
And friends. That's exactly what we did. Between the lights that last literally 10 seconds and everyone merging into the one and only turn lane, I am not telling a falsehood when I say I inched my way into the city! And, by the time I was approaching Light Street, I am passing Lombard from the other direction and it is now open to traffic.
So, I call my employer to let her know I will be late. I hate being late for anything, especially when I give myself time to get somewhere on time . Plus, I was going to be watching the neighbor's kids too. So, that means I had to call her and disappoint her for my lack of respect on her time. I cringe at the thought. Anywho, I forgot to mention the stomach flu...
Monday night I was finishing dinner and took the last bite and I felt this immediate rush of grossness. Cramping. Nausea. Hot flashes. Oh no.
I went to bed, hoping to sleep it off. No such luck. I tossed and turned all night. And everytime I woke up, the cramping was still there. Not good for JB.
So then I go to wake up. Not only did I pass on my usual 3 M and M's I eat every morning before work, but I didn't even want the chocolate in the advent calendar. I get up and the room is spinning. I am literally dripping in sweat. I am green as all get out. I am feeling like I am going to get sick all over myself. So, like any other moron, I get dressed and head to work.
I get to the house with three screaming children. Running, laughing, playing. I can barely move. I am sitting through these waves of nausea. I am cramping on and off. I am trying to not move. Hard to do with two toddlers and a baby. I am hoping that it will all just soon pass.
Then lunchtime hits and a hot flash the kind I have only heard about from my mother hits me. I am going to be sick. Room spins. I strip down to my t-shirt. Glands are producing way too much saliva. And Evie has decided she wants applesauce.
So, here I am bending over the kitchen sink (No time to hit the bathroom it came on that quick) and I am hearing her behind me:
"Applesauce. Applesauce. APPLESAUCE. APPLEEEESAAAAAAUCE. I WANT APPLESAAAAAAAAAAUUUUCCCCEEEE."
Connor is jumping off the furniture in the living room. And thankfully the baby is sleeping peacefully in her crib.
But Really? Seriously?
Ugh.
Well, needless to say I got ahold of all the parentals. And left for the day to go home and sleep it off. And may I say my commute at 1:00 PM was absolutely delightful!
On a day like Monday, it was literally bumper to bumper traffic the moment I got on 83. I have noticed that this phenomenon occurs about once every two weeks on average. It is usually due to some small fender bender...but on Monday what was the issue?
The fender bender was on the OTHER side of the median friends. Yes, traffic on my side of the Jones Fall Expressway was not merging into one lane, or having to go around police cars or flares. Nope. We were all just a bunch of nosey people wanting to see the action on the other side of the road.
Side Note: I will always maintain that if you are not going to get out to help, say a quick prayer, or call 911 then what is the point??? Really. Why my sweet Lord in Heaven, why do we have to rubber neck? There's just NO NEED!
The rest of the day went pretty smoothly until my commute home. I had foolishly decided to drink not one, but two large glasses of water and then top it all off with a diet soda. Good idea, JB?
Wrong-o.
I was stuck in so much traffic that evening. I was almost in tears as I watched us move at a snail's pace. Much like the morning commute, my last few miles on 695 are pretty fast moving on a normal evening. But on this particular night. It literally took me 20 minutes to go about a mile. I am not kidding.
So, here I was. In tears. Clamping. Wiggling. Tempted to pee in the empty Dunkin Donuts cup. Wanting to just take any exit, but 695 was such a parking lot, it would have taken me just as long to scoot off on another exit, especially since there is only one or so before my exit as soon as I merge onto it.
Oh friends. It was awful.
Literally, I parked when I got home, ran upstairs to my apartment and screamed as I passed my roommate on the couch (whom I have not seen in days due to the Thanksgiving holiday)
"CAN'T TALK. GOTTA PEE. CAN'T TALK. GOTTA PEEEEEE!!!"
Believe me, she's used to my silly tactics.
Ok, fast forward to Tuesday morning. Praying that the commute would be easier, I was excited that we were moving quickly, even around the Northern Parkway madness.
But then we get to Lombard Street. My right hand turn into the city. But on Tuesday, there was a police barracade blocking the way. Immediately, I am thinking:
1) Uhhh, I don't know any other way to turn into the city (I'm like a trained seal. A one-trick pony. A creature of habit, so to speak. Teach me to do it one way and that's pretty much how I will do it every time). So, ummm what now?
2) Everyone else is going to have the same idea (do a U-turn so that we can turn into the city on Fayette Street instead)
And friends. That's exactly what we did. Between the lights that last literally 10 seconds and everyone merging into the one and only turn lane, I am not telling a falsehood when I say I inched my way into the city! And, by the time I was approaching Light Street, I am passing Lombard from the other direction and it is now open to traffic.
So, I call my employer to let her know I will be late. I hate being late for anything, especially when I give myself time to get somewhere on time . Plus, I was going to be watching the neighbor's kids too. So, that means I had to call her and disappoint her for my lack of respect on her time. I cringe at the thought. Anywho, I forgot to mention the stomach flu...
Monday night I was finishing dinner and took the last bite and I felt this immediate rush of grossness. Cramping. Nausea. Hot flashes. Oh no.
I went to bed, hoping to sleep it off. No such luck. I tossed and turned all night. And everytime I woke up, the cramping was still there. Not good for JB.
So then I go to wake up. Not only did I pass on my usual 3 M and M's I eat every morning before work, but I didn't even want the chocolate in the advent calendar. I get up and the room is spinning. I am literally dripping in sweat. I am green as all get out. I am feeling like I am going to get sick all over myself. So, like any other moron, I get dressed and head to work.
I get to the house with three screaming children. Running, laughing, playing. I can barely move. I am sitting through these waves of nausea. I am cramping on and off. I am trying to not move. Hard to do with two toddlers and a baby. I am hoping that it will all just soon pass.
Then lunchtime hits and a hot flash the kind I have only heard about from my mother hits me. I am going to be sick. Room spins. I strip down to my t-shirt. Glands are producing way too much saliva. And Evie has decided she wants applesauce.
So, here I am bending over the kitchen sink (No time to hit the bathroom it came on that quick) and I am hearing her behind me:
"Applesauce. Applesauce. APPLESAUCE. APPLEEEESAAAAAAUCE. I WANT APPLESAAAAAAAAAAUUUUCCCCEEEE."
Connor is jumping off the furniture in the living room. And thankfully the baby is sleeping peacefully in her crib.
But Really? Seriously?
Ugh.
Well, needless to say I got ahold of all the parentals. And left for the day to go home and sleep it off. And may I say my commute at 1:00 PM was absolutely delightful!
Monday, December 1, 2008
25 Days of Christmas: Number 23
Number 23.
Holiday Jib Jabs.
I could make a Jib Jab sendable card for every holiday, including the minor holidays such as Arbor Day, Flag Day, and National Talk Like A Pirate Day. I love Jib Jabs. I first found out about them from my brother Timmy, he made one and sent it to me last year around the Christmas season. What's a Jib Jab, you ask? Only the best kind of sendable e-card around. You can cut and paste your own head and the heads of all your distant cousins into a fun little 30 second montage. It's fabulous! And nothing screams the Christmas spirit like a Jib Jab Christmas card. Check them out at jibjab.com Please enjoy the one below:
Holiday Jib Jabs.
I could make a Jib Jab sendable card for every holiday, including the minor holidays such as Arbor Day, Flag Day, and National Talk Like A Pirate Day. I love Jib Jabs. I first found out about them from my brother Timmy, he made one and sent it to me last year around the Christmas season. What's a Jib Jab, you ask? Only the best kind of sendable e-card around. You can cut and paste your own head and the heads of all your distant cousins into a fun little 30 second montage. It's fabulous! And nothing screams the Christmas spirit like a Jib Jab Christmas card. Check them out at jibjab.com Please enjoy the one below:
Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!
25 Days of Christmas: Number 24
Number 24
My Christmas Advent Calendar.
My family and I used to live in Germany because my dad was stationed there for three years with the Army. When we lived there my mom bought us a chocolate advent calendar to count down the days till Christmas. Every day I would get so excited to open up a little window and pull out the piece of German Chocolate nestled in it's little hole. I always tried to guess what it was going to be. You see, each chocolate took on a different Christmas theme. There were candles and presents, dolls and snowflakes, stars and trains. I loved, loved, loved it. I had to share it with my siblings though, so I would only get to open it every third day. My mom wised up after a year or so and bought us each our own calendar.
As I got older, my mom stopped buying the calendars for Timmy and Heather, but I wouldn't let her stop with me. Even in college through today. One year she bought one for my nephew Jacob and not for me! Don't you know she got quite the display of tears.
Side Note: You can find these calendars everywhere, but normally you find the inauthentic "Americanized" version of the European variety. Don't buy it. It's not the same...ever.
You may have to search for it, but it's worth the effort to find the original German Chocolate Advent Calendar.
My Christmas Advent Calendar.
My family and I used to live in Germany because my dad was stationed there for three years with the Army. When we lived there my mom bought us a chocolate advent calendar to count down the days till Christmas. Every day I would get so excited to open up a little window and pull out the piece of German Chocolate nestled in it's little hole. I always tried to guess what it was going to be. You see, each chocolate took on a different Christmas theme. There were candles and presents, dolls and snowflakes, stars and trains. I loved, loved, loved it. I had to share it with my siblings though, so I would only get to open it every third day. My mom wised up after a year or so and bought us each our own calendar.
As I got older, my mom stopped buying the calendars for Timmy and Heather, but I wouldn't let her stop with me. Even in college through today. One year she bought one for my nephew Jacob and not for me! Don't you know she got quite the display of tears.
Side Note: You can find these calendars everywhere, but normally you find the inauthentic "Americanized" version of the European variety. Don't buy it. It's not the same...ever.
You may have to search for it, but it's worth the effort to find the original German Chocolate Advent Calendar.
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