Tagged again :)

Yesterday, Kristen tagged me for something that I had never come across in all of my experience scouring the blog world. She tagged me to write a "Six-Word Memoir" about myself. After I looked up the word 'memoir' to make sure it was what I thought it was, I got to thinking about what mine would be.

I realized pretty quickly that narrowing it down to six words might be kind of difficult. If you have been lucky enough to have me tell you a story in real life, then you are probably shaking your head in agreement.

I like words.

I also began to think about my life and realized that if I had been asked this question a couple, five, or ten years ago, I probably would have written something totally different at each milepost. I thought about doing a memoir-retrospective, but then I decided that might be going a bit overboard with this simple blog-tagging exercise.

I like to take things too far sometimes.

I put off making mine up for a little while because, well, that is who I am. But it wasn't long before out of nowhere a phrase popped into my head. After I counted out the number of words on my fingers, I realized that without a doubt it is the "six-word memoir" that describes my life at this moment in time.

I don't know, but God does.

You see, I am about to graduate from a masters program that has just about, as Meg once said, "sucked the life right out of me." One that has given me a degree that I don't even know if I want to use. While I am truly grateful for the past two years and wouldn't trade them, I am now at that middle place between school and the real world--and I'm finding the "unknowns" a bit uncomfortable at times.

I realize that, like everyone traveling a hard and unknown road, I am not here in this place by accident--God has me right where He wants me. I know He is teaching me trust, patience, and faith, and He wants me to let Him prove Ephesians 3:20, Psalm 37:3-7, and Jeremiah 29:11 to me as I search for my next path in life.

And honestly, I am all about it.

I want to learn these things. I want to keep praying specifically about all of this and watch as God fulfills the desires of my heart in ways that I can't even imagine--ways that are so much better than I could think up on my own. I want to experience life and gain wisdom as I travel through the course God has laid out just for me.

I know whatever that path may be, it's going to be amazing--it already is in SO many ways--but the truth of the matter is that there are a LOT of questions out there right now. And as the days pass by, my not-so-easily-stressed self starts feeling the pressure.

I hate suspense, remember?

So...what is going to happen? How are these last 2 years going to fit into this big ole puzzle that is my life?? Where am I going to get a job? Am I making the right decisions based on what He is telling me or based on my emotions? Are they one in the same? Am I listening and acting purposefully in regards to the direction I am choosing? Do I drink too much Diet Coke? Am I honoring God through this whole, crazy journey? How long will I be in this place of waiting??

I don't know, but God does.

Enjoying the in between

I have to say that as happy as I am to be finished with this whole school thing, it is really kind of sad in a way.

NOT.

Nope, definitely still all happy around here! And I could not have been more excited today as I slept in late and then hung out with Meg the rest of the afternoon with absolutely nothing on my agenda. I mean besides taking part in the viewing of The Bachelor tonight. Can't forget the important things in life just because we reach one of our goals.

Honestly, it really will be a little sad in the next couple of weeks after graduation. I will be leaving this town for the summer and heading home to hang out with my hometown people--including, but not limited to, these little fellas.

I'm very excited about that in particular--it's hard being away from your boyfriends month after month.

And truth be told, a constant struggle in my soul is always feeling like I am missing out on something. When I am at school, I know I am missing time with my family and people at home. When I am home, there is always something going on here that I wish I could be doing. So, while I can't wait to get home and hang out with Big Al and The Debster, build tents and go to the beach with my favorite little men, and attend several more showers for a very special engaged couple, I am still sad to be leaving some other people that I REALLY enjoy.

Exhibit A: Meg (with Rigby)

Exhibit B: Meg's husband, Tyler. So hot.

But thankfully I have a couple more weeks until I have to say goodbye. Until that happens, Meg and I plan on spending quality time doing what we do best--going out to eat, going to Target, and not being productive in any way.

In fact, I picked Meg up from school today and we did just that. While I was finished with school last week, Megan still had one more measly class today. When it was over, I went to get her, and I felt the need to document the joy that comes from that Moment of Doneness (I think I made that word up. I hear you can do that when you have your masters).

Here she is trying act real cool and nonchalant about the whole thing. Do not be fooled, good people.

Just as I suspected, her joy soon took over her and she took part in the victory squat/arm raise maneuver that is common amongst newly finished social work grad students. And crazy people. Or as shown here--both.

Lovin it, lovin it.

"Oh my GAH, I can't believe I survived this ridiculous program!"

We pulled away from that retched place we call school--tires squealing like we were being chased--and then went to celebrate by checking out the scene at one of our favorite hang-outs.

Afterwards, we continued with an age-old tradition of going back to Meg's to hang out and watch her puppies battle it out.

In today's fight we have defender Laila "Ukulele" Seabolt taking on new fighter, Rigby "Riga-ma-roll" Seabolt.

Here is Laila showing off her signature head-lock maneuver.

And here she is in her "Flip 'em Over and Bite 'em" move.

But don't let that little white pip-squeak fool you. Rigby's got her own moves to contend with. Here she is with the patented "Yeah, you think you're biting me, but I'm gonna BITE YOU IN YOUR EYE" tactic.

And once that causes Laila to run away in pain, Rigby just chases her while biting her ankles. It is a tried and true technique.

Ding Ding! To your corners!

Honestly, I think I might miss the puppies the most. :)

The end of an era

It has been a rather crazy week. Mainly because it was my very last week of classes for all of time. You can't see me, but I am doing a happy dance right now. I save it for special occasions.

I am dancing because after 4 years of college followed immediately by 2 years of graduate school, I am so over learning.

I mean don't get me wrong, I like knowledge--I am just no longer interested in obtaining it in any sort of structured environment that requires me to do so. Those days are done. And as far as any additional schooling in the future? Well, never say never, I guess.

But seriously, NEVER.

In addition to finishing classes, I also wrapped things up at my internship this week. I have been working at a child advocacy center for the past year, and I have one more Child Abuse Puppet Show to do for some sweet little 2nd graders on Friday. After I reprise my role as Ms. Foster, the Very Concerned Teacher of the Neglected Child and Kenny, the Very Concerned Friend of the Abused Child, I am really, absolutely, completely done. My level of joy is immeasurable.

Mama, sharing my excitement, asked me the other day if I was in shock that I'm almost finished and if I could even believe it!?!

And while my happiness is quite excessive, my answer was no, I am not in shock. And yes, I can believe it. You know how sometimes you go through something and at the end you think, wow, that went by SO fast.

Yeah, not so much with this. It has been a LONG two years.

And when I say long, I do not necessarily mean bad. It has actually been a couple years full of more life lessons than ever before. It's been 2 years of remarkable difficulty and stress, as well as a LOT of laughter, friendship, and personal growth. God has blessed me beyond what I ever expected, and He and I have had some quality bonding time as I have come up close and personal with questioning and doubt, not to mention a lot of soul searching and realizations that 'who I am' and 'who I am meant to be' really need to become better friends.

This experience has taught me a lot about what makes me truly happy in life, and I know that the goal now is to figure out how to use that to serve the world. I have also come to terms with what gets me riled up quicker than it should and how to bring down the sass when it arises. In addition to all these pearls of wisdom, I've also gained a new excitement about the future and a better acceptance that where I am at the present moment is exactly where I am supposed to be. I know that lingering desires of my heart will come in perfect timing, and that even though it's very hard at times, I wouldn't want it any other way than what God has planned out.

Because I really shouldn't count on myself to organize something as big as MY LIFE when I lose my planner at least twice a week.

Obviously, there is so much that I have learned outside of the books I (supposedly) read for class. It's hard for me to give an adequate account of what this experience has meant to me because I think a lot of it is still inside waiting to be analyzed and processed (social work terms, watch out!). And I know that God has also used this time to plant seeds in my heart for use down the road--I can't wait to watch how they will grow. I know I will be blown away, just as I have been as I have watched many of the puzzle pieces of my life fall together the past couple of years. Doing so has allowed me to know more than ever that God really does have this whole thing figured out perfectly. Which is good because most of the time, I don't have a clue what the future holds or which way to even turn.

But, even the realization of not knowing what the next phases will look like can't stop the happy dance. Oh no, it shall definitely remain in effect until further notice. :)

A picture worth a billion words

When I picked Meg up for class yesterday, she surprised me with this card. At first I thought someone had taken a picture of me during one of the conversations, but alas, Megan had once again found a PERFECT card to depict the friendship we share. This particular card focuses on the true foundation of our bond...

Talking. Lots and lots of talking.

Oh, how I wish there was a way to get transcripts from all of the random, deep, hilarious, sassy, honest, ridiculous, serious, inappropriate, enlightening, fiesty, spiritual, and laughy conversations we have had every day for the past two years. I'd pay some GOOD MONEY for that kind of entertainment.

I love you, Megaroni! Thanks for never shutting up. :)

"And.......back to you."

Tagged!

I have never been much for playing tag. When Brannen tries to get me to do that, I divert him with candy or send Will out to represent me. I am just personally not a fan of being chased. Not to mention, running.

Anyways, after getting into this whole blog thing a while back I noticed that there was a game of tag around these parts that might be more my style. I think it is so fun to read posts where a person has been tagged because it is a way to get to know some interesting/random things about them in one sitting.

I thrive off of randomness, so I had been wanting to just tag my own self a couple times, but now, thanks to Faith, I don't have to!

********

Here are the rules:1) Link to your tagger and post these rules on your blog. 2) Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird. 3) Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs. 4) Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

********

1. I have a very poor sense of smell. It's not that I can't smell. But a lot of times, I won't pick up on a scent right away--if at all. And let me tell you, people find this very disturbing. All I can do is apologize and remind them that girls who can't smell are people, too. I have learned that comparing it to the fact that smelling is sense just like seeing or hearing helps. When those senses are impaired, people use glasses and hearing aids. They just haven't come out with nose-aids, yet. And I will say that not having a good smeller comes in handy in numerous situations such as changing diapers, taking out the trash, using public restrooms, and so on.

2. I started out as a Nutrition major in college, but after a couple of years switched to Psychology because of classes like Nutritional Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Medical Terminology. Way not enough brains for all that. I did stay in it just long enough to take Anatomy and had the unique experience of dissecting cats. Guess who wasn't bothered by the smell of formaldehyde! See? Handy.

3. For the most part, I'd rather watch TV than movies. But, I still really enjoy going to the theater when I know the movie is going to be good. I can usually tell from a preview whether or not I will like a movie, and one sure way to know is if the movie can be described as an "inspirational true story." I personally have never met one I didn't LOVE. And of course there are certain movies that I will watch over and over no matter what. Steel Magnolias, Fried Green Tomatoes, We Are Marshall, and Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken just to name a few.

4. I love nicknames. I love giving them to people, and I love being called by a nickname. In fact, my parents and older brother, as well as close family and friends from home, never just call me Jenna. I have been "Jenna Babe" since the very beginning--I even found places in my baby book where Daddy wrote about me and used Jenna Babe. Awww, I cherish it. And it will probably not shock you that when I think about names for future baby girls, I don't even consider ones that don't sound right with "Babe" on the end. Gotta keep the loving alive! I just think nicknames are such terms of endearment, and I have one for pretty much every person I am close with.

5. I don't like suspense. If I am watching a thriller or action movie, I enjoy it so much more if I know what is going to happen. Who is going to die? What is going to be the end result of this madness?? If you think that would ruin the movie for me, just ask Meg whose movie experience is ruined when you refuse to tell me what's about to happen and have to listen to me beg you every 5 minutes to PLEASE TELL ME. She got to experience that joy when one of our professors showed the movie "Crash" in class. This aversion to suspense also applies to books. If I am reading a book and start getting a inkling that something bad is about to happen, I flip ahead to check out the scene. Then I can go on reading in heavenly peace.

6. I pass out at the sight of (or the prolonged discussion about) all things related to blood or needles or the like. I have hit the floor more times than I'd like to remember (because, I mean, it's not embarrassing AT ALL), and I used to think I was just a weakling. Then one day back in college, I was reading a psychology book for class and came across the term Blood-injury-injection Phobia. Basically it said that most people's blood pressure rises when they see blood, etc., but other poor souls pass out because their blood pressure DROPS when they see that type of stuff. It was so freeing to know that I wasn't just a loser (in this particular case)--I just have some sort of physiological disorder! Good times.

7. While it is no secret around here that I drink my fair share of Diet Coke everyday, I am also addicted to good ole H2O and am constantly refilling a 32 oz. cup of it that I keep with me at all times. I am kind of OCD about making sure I drink at least the same amount of water (and usually more) as I do The Good Stuff.

There you go! I tag anyone who hasn't done one of these yet, but I would specifically like to tag my dear friend (and new blogger--yay!) Janna!

It was a hard fought battle

I have been dreaming of a weekend like the one I just had for a good while now. A weekend where the days on the calendar were gloriously blank. As much as I love going here, there, and everywhere--and as fun as all of weekends been over the past few months--I just needed a few days where the only thing on the agenda was nothing.

And as it turns out, my wallet, my car, and (especially) my apartment thanked me.

Indeed, it was nice not to have to shell out 1 million dollars to fill up my tank. It was awesome to know when I went to bed Thursday night that I did not have to wake up the next morning and drive many a mile. And I finally Spring-cleaned a bedroom that was way, WAY out of control.

I thought about documenting the task of cleaning out my closet, but about 20 minutes into it I decided I should withhold all types of photo-journalistic measures for this event. I am all about encouraging blog traffic here, not sending people away by subjecting them to that kind of freak show.

Let's just say within minutes, there was stuff strewn all over the place. Piles were already stacked up to the ceiling, and honestly, I thought about just going downstairs, getting a diet coke, and forgetting the whole thing.

Because that's how I deal, people.

Yes, I wanted to stop and continue turning a blind eye to the chaos before me. But, I knew that after I got in there and did a big clean out of all the stuff that I no longer needed, that no longer fit (yay!), or that was no longer wanted, I would feel like a new girl. So I sorted, piled, organized, and re-arranged a closet that had paid the ultimate price for all of my recent weekend travels.

Being gone so much will reek havoc on your living conditions.

It didn't help that I had somehow decided that it was beyond my capabilities to unpack from week to week with any sort of rhyme or reason. Honestly, it was just too much for me with be be organized when I knew in a few short days I would be disrupting the whole system once again. So I have been basically living out of a suitcase. And instead of taking time in the first couple evenings after my return to go through that suitcase and put everything back in it's place, I would just enjoy some quality time with my laptop or go to Meg's and watch American Idol.

Because that's how I deal, people.

So Friday was the The Big Clean-out. After the initial Fight or Flight response (which almost resorted in aborting the whole mission), I really got down and dirty. I had piles going to Good Will, my mama, and anybody else who I thought would take all the junk that I had accumulated, but no longer wanted. As the loads of clothes went in and out of the washer, I took time to re-organize my desk area, scrub the bathroom, and vacuum/dust the entire apartment.

I was in that crazed lunatic mode which we all know is very becoming.

At one point I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror--the previous day's smeared make-up, the hair falling haphazardly out of my pony-tail, and the raggedy bleach-stained clothes. I took a look and wondered why in the world no one will marry me.

After I asked God not to allow my future husband to come knocking on my door at that very moment, I got back to the tasks at hand. It's was good thing I didn't take the time to put my hair back up or deal with the mascara malfunctions because even with only a couple of breaks for meals and/or liquid refreshment, I didn't crawl into my big, comfortable bed (fitted with my nice, clean sheets) until after 2am.

But the next morning when I woke up and saw the fruits of my labor, I was beyond happy and vowed to become OCD if it was the last thing I do.

May I present The Closet. Everything piece of clothing hung in it's place and every cast away bagged up and stacked neatly ready to go.

The desk area where a surprisingly small amount of homework was done this past year.

Finally I can sit on my bed and compute without having to look up and see destruction.

Hey, what's this around the corner?

That must be an ad for cleanest bathroom in America!

Obviously, the fumes are still very strong in there.

Lastly, here is a representation of what I felt like after Clean up the Chaos '08. I actually really did go outside and hold out my arms like this. And a bird really landed on me and started singing. I sang along. True story.

Hope y'all had a great weekend!

Love,
Cinderella

LONG (seriously, it's long) post that is long overdue

Once upon a time a couple of weeks ago, I went to Panama City, FL, for a beach trip with the girls. Yet, I haven't really written about it. That's not because it wasn't fun. Oh. It was fun. And it isn't because it wasn't interesting. Believe me. Quite interesting.

Maybe it's just that it was SO fun and SO interesting, that a post would be hard-pressed to do it justice.

And also, it's just that, well, it was a Bachelorette Party. And unlike sweet bridal showers and teas where everyone sits in a circle and oohs and ahhs over a dinner plates, flat wear, and crock pots--bachelorette par-tays can get a little less, shall we say, grandma-friendly.

But, I would be remiss not to share the some of the memorable moments of this very fun-filled and laugh-laden weekend. I most certainly want to keep record of all the memories made and all the random and hilarious moments we shared over those 4 days. I do enjoy each of the girls so very much.

I took about 8,000 pictures, so I will just let the them speak for themselves.

Hitting the road:

It all started bright and early Saturday morning as we loaded up the cars and got on the road.

BB and Rach ready to go! I always think that the traveling is one of the most enjoyable parts of a big trip.

Once we made it:

We sent Brittany away and took to decorating the lovely condo.

All the girls received their own special buckets full of surprises.

Here is Bri walking into her Bachelorette pad. The look of shock and amazement is due to some very "special" decorations that will not be pictured.

It was raining when we got there, so we used that time to make some cookies, have some of Bri's World Famous daiquiris, and relax. Spring Break '08 had officially begun.

Brooke, Mer, and Rachel preparing the special treats.

Bri and JT, always partners in crime.

Friday Night aka "Game Night":

The first night we were there we ordered pizzas and then we proceeded to participate in some fun bachelorette games. There were quizzes and art projects to complete, as well as a "special" pinata to bust.

I won a very important competition, and my prize was the coveted opportunity to bust the pinata. For the rest of my life, I will never forget the image of 9 girls diving for the candy that flew out all over the floor. It was hilarious insanity.

Candy makes people crazy. I have seen it with my own two eyes.

Saturday:

It was bad weather again on Saturday, but we did not let a little rain dampen our celebration. We relaxed that morning and later in the afternoon, we went out to get some appetizers to kill sometime before Bri's Big Night Out.

We rode in style that weekend with our very own Bachelorette Van. The sign reads: Bachelorette Party...Clear the Road! It was a cute sign, but since I was driving, it also served as a serious warning to other vehicles in our path.

Saturday Night!:

This night was the big event. Bri was kept in the dark about all the activities of the weekend. The greatness of this night was a surprise even to me and I helped plan it!

Getting pretty.

We all piled into The Van and headed off to a very nice restaurant. It's classiness could be matched only by the bride herself (seen here, far right)!

Me and Rach waiting at the bar for our table.

This was my favorite part of the night. We had reserved our own private room, and it was so beautiful and perfect. Nothing but the best for our bride!

And the food. Oh, my lands at the food. I kept having to remind myself that I was not on an episode of Top Chef. Nobody would have packed their knives and gone if we had been.

The best part was without a doubt the dessert. I could cry remembering that first bite of this glorious creation known as Hot Chocolate Souffle.

2.2. seconds into it.......

Not really. We actually took our time after that first bite. We knew we needed to savor each morsel because our taste buds would never be in the presence of something so heavenly ever again.

Here is Lin, my bff/Souffle sharer.

Saturday Night Part II:

After we rolled ourselves out of the restaurant, we fought all of the teenage spring-breakers back across town to go have ourselves some fun. I would also just like to say that if you find yourself backed up for about a mile's worth of traffic and you are in a HUGE van, you can totally drive down the turning lane through the middle of the cars. Everyone will be scared to mess with you.

We made it to our destination and danced the night away.

Resting our feet and enjoying a crazy night o' fun.

Sunday:

Oh, Sunday. We really thought that the sun was going to shine that day, but alas, it did not. We did not let it deter us from enjoying ourselves, though. That day was hung around laughing and carrying on, and later that night we recounted our favorite trip memories over some chips, salsa, and a delicioso meal at a Mexican restaurant.

Afterwards, it was on to see a movie and later grab some Marble Slab ice cream goodness.

Not wanting the night to end, once we got back to the condo, we did what any group of mid-20 year-olds would do: ROCK BAND, baby!

Band leader

Lead vocalist and back up singers

Monday:

The clouds finally parted on Monday and we were able to get out on the beach! We spent a few hours soaking up the sun. After we had just a touch of color, we loaded up once again to make the journey home. Tears.

It really was a perfect trip. It was so fun to shock, surprise, and celebrate Bri, and there were laughs at every turn.

I leave you with a picture of my friend Brittany that sums up how I think we ALL felt about the trip as a whole. :)

Fun lunch dates and a Janna-petition :)

Megan I have a fun tradition of eating lunch together bi-weekly. We have been participating in the Tuesday lunch date since the beginning of the year, and it occurs every week after we get out of our Policy class. And because we are all about integrating what we learn in school to our everyday lives, we have made it a policy to go to the same Mexican restaurant every week.

La Cazuela es our favorito.

The second lunch date tradition started this semester when Meg changed her internship and ended up in the same county as me. She says that me being there wasn't the reason she switched, but I think we all could guess the validity of that story. It has been fun working in the same little town (30 miles from the one we live in) for a lot of reasons, but my favorite reason is because of our new Thursday lunch tradition.

And though we love each other dearly and never seem to run out of funny, interesting, and/or inappropriate conversation, we are always trying to think of other people to join us. We are all about sharing the love here.

MUCH to our delight, we talked my sweet friendtern, Janna, into joining the craziness today. As you can see, it's a laugh a minute around these parts!

I LOVE those girls.

And in some even more exciting news, I think I may have successfully talked Janna into starting a blog! My excitement cannot be measured by this recent development. JP is a strong supporter here at jennababe.blogspot, and have I mentioned I love her?

Here are some of the reasons I think Janna should start a blog:

1.) She is so SMART. Janna is like the valedictorian of my friends. She knows a lot about a vast array of subjects, and I really know that her blog would make me more intelligent. And getting the smarts is really what I'm all about.

2.) She is DEEP. I know her posts would be introspective, thought-provoking, and really make you think. Oh wait, I guess that last one would be the same as thought-provoking. See, I need her to make me smarter. Anyway, I know her blog would be full of things that make you go, hmmmmm.

3.) She is SUCCESSFUL. Like me, she is about to graduate with her masters degree. Unlike me, she already has a job lined up! She is going to be moving back to our hometown in the next couple of weeks and starting her new job at the University there. All of these new experiences (as well as all that she has learned in her past experiences) would make great blog material.

4.) She OWES ME. The masters degree she is about to have is in counseling, and I have let her practice her skills on me for countless hours this year. The least she can do is provide me with a blog full of her counseling knowledge (and beyond) after she leaves me alone in this town. As the counseling kids say--it's the ethical thing to do.

5.) She is just a LOVELY person. Not only does she earn the valedictorian honor in my class of friends, but she would also be a strong contender for the Best All Around superlative. She is just a sweet, funny, thoughtful, compassionate, Christian woman. She has a heart of gold and stories from her life would bless all the people in all the land. :)

Go for it, Jannie! Now if I could just get that sassa-frass on the left to start a blog as well, my life would be even more complete. :)

It's all about keeping the phone-hope alive

Last night, a miracle occurred.

I posted last week about the tragic accident and subsequent death of my cell phone. A cell phone that, until it plunged into a full cup of tea, worked perfectly for 2 years without a hint of trouble. And it's life was not without tribulation--believe me, it took many a tumble in that span o' time. In the end, it's demise wasn't that big of a deal (besides happening in the midst of a very busy week) because my contract ran out a while back--meaning a new phone was on the horizon at some point anyway.

I was just planning on waiting to buy one until my income was more than $0.00.

But, in the spirit of rolling with the punches, off I went to the phone store and picked me up a new tele. I found a pretty a reasonably priced one that I liked and made the deal. It was still more than I wanted to pay (which was approximately ZERO DOLLARS), but phones are quite the necessity at this point.

God, food, phones. It's the survival trinity.

Anyways, for the last week I have been playing with my new phone, figuring out all the features, and trying to remember as many people's numbers as I could. Yes, Verizon-man told me my numbers could not be saved, which was really the saddest part of the whole situation. Honestly, I'm not sure I totally believed the guy when he told me the numbers couldn't somehow be retrieved, but I was too mesmerized by his cuteness to press him on it.

One thing I did hear while I was batting my eyes and saying things like, "Wow, you know a lot about phones!" was that there was a very small chance that in a couple of days, I might be able get it to turn back on. Thus regaining contact with the outside world. Their message is one of hope at Verizon Wireless.

Let it dry out, he said. It may come back on and then you can retrieve your numbers. Here is your receipt, will you marry me?

I waited a couple of days to make one last attempt for any sign of life. I wanted to give the phone a few days to rest and decide if it was going to be nice and come back on long enough for me to get the numbers out of it. Because, let's face it. Remembering people's digits is a thing of the past.

Kind of like using the word "digits."

Finally, at one point during the weekend, I decided it was time to try. I held by breath, hit the power button, and willed the phone to turn on. Nothing. Well, that's that, I thought to myself. These things happen, and at least this whole thing brought me and Verizon-man together. We really must look for the good in all situations.

The End.


Just kidding, I haven't even told you about the exciting part yet, silly!

So, last night I was unpacking and came across the charger for the deceased phone in my suitcase. Tears. Then in a moment of sheer brilliance, I decided to plug up the phone into the charger and see what would happen. I knew it was probably a lost cause, but it was as if all of a sudden I was overcome with the possibility that maybe the phone wasn't dead-dead, like for all of time--maybe it had been temporarily in a phone-coma. I wondered if it was possible that the phone still had some life in it, but wasn't turning on because it was now out of battery.

Honestly, my technological mind really had not been THAT on-point since I realized that the reason my car CD player wasn't working had to do with the fact that there was no CD in it.

And guess what?!

::::::ahhhhhh::::angels singing::::ahhhhhh::::::

My phone has risen! It has risen, indeed! I could not believe my eyes the lights flashed on and everything seemed to be working properly. It was a true Monday Night Phone Miracle.

After the resurrection, I decided that I should be a responsible adult and take back my new phone, since I don't technically need it at the moment. If you are shocked and/or impressed by this decision then we are the same person.

And, that moment of responsibility is what I like to call a Tuesday Morning Maturity Miracle.

Oh, the weekend....

I am starting to think I should have named this blog, "Travels with Jenna," since every post these days seems to be a recap of some trip I have just come back from. But, then I remember that even though the number of trips is almost at one million since January, I really just keep going to the same places and hanging out with the same (albeit fun) people. So "These are the Days" shall continue on.

So, with that said, I went on a trip this weekend!

Yes, I went home this past weekend for a couple of very important reasons. First off, my daddy has been working very hard the past few months in a play that finally made it to the stage. Daddy has been acting in productions for about 15 years. His very first, and I'll go ahead and say it BREAKOUT role, was playing Bob Cratchet in "A Christmas Carol." Ol' Cratchet, bless his heart. With Scrooge as his boss, that man could not catch a break. But he kept his head high, God love him, and I will always remember that role because I thought it was perfect for Daddy. He and Bob really have the same priorities in life--love your family, work hard, be a good person, and be thankful.

God bless us, everyone.

Coincidentally, I was also in that year's "A Christmas Carol" playing Belle's daughter. Who, you ask? Exactly.

Anyways, Big Al caught the acting bug then and there, and he has been involved in community theatre as well as productions at the University in our town ever since. I could not even recount all the ones he has done, but they have all been awesome and have many times required singing AND dancing. Basically, what I'm saying is that he is multi-talented and famous.

The man LOVES it with a passion, and while I retired from the stage after my performance as Jill Rabbit in "The Wind in the Willows" about 12 years ago, it brings me GREAT joy to go and watch him perform. I love the months leading up to the play as he tramps around the house blurting out lines or busting into song. You'll say something like, "I like cheese," and he'll go into a 5 minute monologue that just happened to have the word cheese in it.

It's uncanny, really.

So, this weekend was the opening of his play, "A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum."

HILARIOUS.

It was such a great night. Which leads me to the #2 reason I went home this weekend. My brother and his girlfriend, Larsen, came into town for the play as well which made me extremely happy. I have been missing those two crazy kids. We got to hang out all weekend, and on Saturday night we, along with Larsen's sister, my grandmother, and great-aunt, all went to the play.

I don't know what I was expecting, but let's just say that we all thought it was SO funny. Like out-loud laughing the whole time. And those who know me will not find it hard to believe that Daddy said he could hear me laughing back stage.

After the play we waited for the Star to come out and greet his fans.

Here is my sweet Gram on the right with her sister, Ruby. In all reality, there was no need to go to the play because they were entertainment enough. Here's a true story for you: The main character in the play, who is NOT Daddy and who is about 30 pounds heavier and blonde (Al's brunette) comes out on stage right in the beginning. As soon as he comes out and starts into his monologue, Aunt Ruby leans over to Gram and in a non-inside voice says, "IS THAT ALAN??" I was sitting right beside her, and after I died 1,000 deaths from shock and embarrassment, I told her that no, it was not Alan and asked her please save her screaming for intermission. Aren't they so cute, though?

Mama and her favorite child besides me.

Ruby, no longer confused on the identity of her nephew, gives Daddy a big "you did great once I figured out who you were" hug.

The lovebirds and their sisters. Katie, L & M, and me. Gah, I wish Matthew and I weren't so darn tall. It's so awkward to make Larsen and Katie stand on their tippy toes just to take a picture with us.

After the show, we went to our favorite Greek restaurant and talked extensively about the play, all the different characters, all of our favorite scenes, etc. It was a great night.

And actually, it had been a great DAY before that, as we gathered to attend the annual Blue/White Football Game. It's when our college football team splits and plays each other to show the community what they've got for us in the coming season. We tailgated before the game with friends Connie and Tom. The food and fun were plenty.

"I'm gonna eat you."


The Conster and The Debster greeting the team! It's fun to go to a game where you can always say, "my team's winning" no matter what the score.

My cute brother and his lovely lady.

Six-time National champs, baby! Go Eagles!

And lastly, I leave you with a short little video. While this is not a video of the his play, it is my Daddy singing a little tune with the band out at the tailgate. They happened to play one of the favorite songs of both he and my brother, so they both (along with Larsen) joined in.

Just a day in the life, people...

Well, that concludes this edition of "Travels with Jenna." Hope everyone had a great, hilarious, and song/food-filled weekend just like us. :)

Quick stop

I have to make this quick because if Megan sees that I am posting on my blog instead of working on our group project, she will get all sassy on me. Not really, but I needed to stop by in a last ditch effort to put off work for one "just one more minute." I stole that line from Brannen. He uses it on me when I tell him it's time to go get in the bed. It always seems to work on me, so I have decided to implement this highly effective tactic more in my every day living. Especially in my (soon-to-be-over) academic life.

I'm pleased with the results at the moment.

But sadly, my minute is just about up, and I now have to go find some research on the very exciting and inspirational issue of The Death Penalty.

People, please. A life of jealous is no way to live.

In other news, I am home for the weekend because my daddy is in another play which is supposed to be wonderful and hilarious (just like Big Al!). I'm excited to see it and support him, and I am hoping to also get his autograph.

Ok, I'm off to learn about criminals and policies on death. Happy Weekend!

One of those crazy days

Today has been quite the crazy day. Yesterday before I left to go party with some little girls, I came across a job posting in the school district I live in that sparked some serious interest. As I read about the position, I realized not only was I qualified for it, but that it seemed like something I would REALLY enjoy doing.

This is a phenomenon for which I have never experienced.

My excitement mounted greatly, but I gasped when I saw that the deadline for applying was Friday. This Friday.

So today has been spent trying to gather all the necessary components to send in. The job seems perfect and my desire for it is steadily growing. But in the end, I know if it is meant to be, God will make it happen. He already knows what job I'll be getting next year, so it's all good. My current job is to just follow as many leads as possible and let Him teach me how to trust Him--basically by putting myself out there where He leads and letting Him shut all the wrong doors. Pretty soon, I know I'll find my way to the one He's got unlocked for me.

Indeed, this week has turned out to be pretty hectic. Good, but crazy. As I hurry to finish the application process, I also have those 3 papers waiting in the wings that need to be done by Friday.

Did I mention I also suffer from chronic Senioritis.

I'm pretty sure I've had it since I was a senior in high school. It was definitely with me all through college with a serious flare up in my last semester. That particular flare really never went away as I forged ahead to grad school. And let's just say that now, in my final WEEKS of school EVER (as in, never going back), I can barely function. I know my parents are so proud of my ambitious and driven nature right about now.

Our daughter, the Star Student.

All that to say, I'm off to continue on in this crazy day!

P.S. If you happen to read this and you just happen to also want me to get this job, I would be beyond thankful for your prayers during this process. Can't wait to see what wild and crazy things God has in store for me. :) Ephesians 3:20, you are my friend.

The Day After Vacay play by play

So today has been pretty much what I expected for the day after a fabulous vacay. While it's always nice to get back to familiar surroundings and one's steady routine, I have to say when the alarm went off this morning, my first thought was not one of thanksgiving.

But, I regrouped quickly and proceeded in getting up and ready for class. This was not without bumps, though, and required not one but TWO separate trips down (and back up) 2 flights of stairs because, oh yeah I forgot my hair dryer in my car. Then 30 minutes later, oh yeah I forgot my make-up in my car. And 1 second later, oh yeah I forgot I want to be back at the beach where hair dryers and make up are optional.

Class was a round table discussion on Immigration Policy................................Oh! Sorry I fell asleep just thinking about it again. I would write more on this matter, but I wasn't really paying attention and the parts I did hear, I would rather not relive. Let's just say there were lots of opinions, a nice amount of raised voices, and a lot of moments of confirmation that I AM SO DONE WITH THIS ALREADY.

As usual, there was a silver lining--getting to reunite with my girls Meg and Kare which always makes my days brighter. I missed those crazy loons!

As class progressed, I started making my to-do list which included 3 school papers due by Friday, a myriad of calls that I needed to make, several emails to reply to, and oh yeah, A JOB to find pronto.

Despite all the events and piles of to-do's clogging up my brain, the day was progressing nicely. Meg and I planned to enjoy some wonderful mexican food at our weekly La Cazuela lunch date. But first we stopped by to see Meg's husband, Tyler up at the church because he had THIS WITTLE SWEETIE with him.

Aunty Jenna just could not wait another second to see her new niece, Rigby! I love her dearly already. She is so sassy. Just like her mama.

Soon after that I reunited with my friend the Crazy Taco. It's amazing how a little mexican food and some good conversation can make a girl exponentially happier. After lunch, I spent the rest of the afternoon trying to get myself organized and together and ready to conquer the world.

And by world, I mean school work and life planning.

A couple hours of facebook later, it was time to go to my very last group meeting. Blair, my intern friend at work, and I have been leading a group for several girls (ages 9 and 10) who have been victims of abuse. They are just the sweetest, spunkiest little things you have ever seen.

Even going to meet with them was not without it's trials. Indeed, I am sad to report that on the commute to group, my phone was involved in a fatal accident when it jumped out of it's holder into my glass of green tea. RIP Samsung.

You truly were a great phone, and I think you had a lot of life left in you. My only hope is that you short-circuited before you had the chance to feel any pain. I will miss you singing that "you just called....to say....you loved me" and will always remember the innumerable times that you were there to host my conversations with all of the dearest people I know--no matter how many times I dropped you on the pavement, off my bed, into the floorboard of my car, down the stairs, etc.

While this accident was definitely unexpected (and I really did love that phone), it really was not that big of a deal. I have been needing to renew my contract for the last few months and get a new phone anyway. Also, I have a thing for new gadgets.

But anyway, back to the girls. While it was nice to close out the group, I will miss them all dearly. Mostly because they are sweet and awesome, but also because they tell me funny things. Like the conversation we had tonight over pizza and cupcakes (I don't know about you, but we go out partying).

J: H, tell me what food you would want to eat if you could only eat ONE thing for the rest of you life. (This question is pivotal in counseling)

H: Hmm, pizza! And cupcakes. (Well, we hit that nail on the head tonight, Blair!)

J: Yum. I am with you on the pizza for sure. What food do you HATE the most in the world.

H: (deep thinking for a moment) Well, I really hate Sour Crap.

J: Sour Crap? (say wha??)

H: Yeah, my uncle puts in on his hot dog and it smells disgusting.

J: Ohhhhh...I think you mean sauerkraut?

H: Yeah, Sour Crap. Yuck.

We never did get it straight, but personally, I say yuck to sauerkraut and sour crap. So I'm totally picking up what she's putting down.

After we bid farewell to some of the cutest and bravest little gals I know, I went and picked up some supper as well as a new phone. I wish I could say I then went home worked diligently on papers and marked tons of stuff off my list. But that would be a lie. I talked on and played with my new phone and then I wrote this blog entry. Now I think I am about to call it a day.

That pretty much concludes my very busy, somewhat overwhelming re-entry to real life post-spring break. I had planned to recap the bachelorette par-tay, but once I got upstairs tonight, I remember that oh yeah, I forgot my camera in my car.

But, I WILL leave you with a couple of sneak peaks that seem to sum up the weekend as a whole....


Thinking about all that laughter makes all the craziness of coming back from a trip TOTALLY worth it.

Home again, home again

Oh mercy. Where do I even begin?

It has definitely been a non-stop spring break week (plus one extra day for good measure). I FINALLY rolled into my apartment complex at 10:45 tonight after a tremendously fun weekend celebrating Brittany's bachelorette-ness.

We really had more fun that should be allowed.

Some things I can tell you about and some things are going to have to be filed under the "What Happens at Bachelorette Party 08 Stays at BP08" category. I hate it, but that is Bridesmaid Law and I can't be held liable for breaking it.

Recap to come, but first I have to unpack and fight off the mild to moderate depression that followed me all the way home. Each mile brought me back to life. Back to reality. And the first reality check is coming bright and early in the morning as I head to class.

Say it with me now: Boo.

But, I just won't think about that. For now, I'll focus my mind on all the wonderful memories made with these lovely ladies!

Spring Break and a Bday

I am on Spring Break this week, although I haven't quite gotten to the "break" part yet. That will be coming shortly, once the girls and I hit the road in a few days for the beach. Life is a highway, and I have been happily riding it all month long. And I am more than happy to keep on keeping on all the way to the ocean for what I am sure is going to be The Party of the Century (alternate title: "Bachelorettes Gone semi-Wild).

So, this week has been packed full of errands, spending time with Al and Deb, watching Brannen play t-ball, flirting with Will, writing papers, and getting packed up for my trip. Thankfully, I believe I am pretty close to ready. My car has been serviced, I just sent in a paper that is due on Friday, and my clothes are in the dryer. Check, check, and check.

As my daddy says, LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL.

***

In other news, my dear friend Larsen is celebrating a birthday! Happy Birthday, Larsen! I love you, girl. :)

I'm off to pack the rest of it up! Hope everyone has a great rest of the week. :)

I do not have the gift of brevity when it comes to Fun. Or ever.

As I said in my last post, there was a lot of greatness this past weekend. Great people, great food, great talks, and great laughs. I am amazed by the fact that I always walk away from these kinds of weekends wondering how I got so lucky to have such wonderful people to share life with.

I mean, yes, many years ago I did pray for such friendships, but I was young and stupid and didn't realize He ACTUALLY would give them to me. I think it is safe to say He delivered. And in true God-form, He went above and beyond what I could ever imagine to pray for in the friend department. I tell Him "thank you" so much that He probably wants to say, "Seriously, Jenna. I got it. You're thankful."

I just like the be thorough.

So speaking of friends, I'm not sure if I've mentioned it, but Brittany and Earle are getting married. This weekend, I hit the road again to attend not one but TWO showers for the lovely bride. The first was a Miscellaneous Shower at her house, thrown by some of her close high school friends.

She got a ton of neat gifts. As the parties rage on, it is becoming clear that pretty soon someone is going to have to step up and give them a bigger house to store all of these items.

The mimosas kicking in.

After the shower, we all hung out at Bri's talking, discussing various wedding topics, and watching YouTube videos. That's how we roll.

All of this caused much laughter for about 2 hours straight. I once heard that laughing is a great way to burn calories. I take that VERY seriously, so I was supportive of bringing out some chips and cheese to enjoy.

Earle was tuckered out after hearing all about the shower so he used his bride (who was downing some chips) as a pillow.

One of the best guys you'll ever meet. And he loves that little pillow so much. Which multiplies his awesomeness by approximately 1 million.

Later that night, we went over to Brittany's parents' house to eat some fried fish. I forgot to even bring out my camera because I was too busy chatting by the pool with Kimberly, eating, and cracking up as we listened to Earle's dad and Bri's dad tell stories about going fishing earlier in the day. The bond between all these in-laws is priceless. Not to mention, hilarious.

The next morning we got up and found 2 casseroles that had been left in the oven from the shower the day before. I called Daddy to consult on the issue of spoilage and the likelihood of death if we were to ingest such casseroles. He could neither confirm nor deny if they were good, but felt like they probably would be ok. Because we are dare-devils, we heated those suckers up and called it breakfast. I am happy to say, they were delicious and we all lived.

We hung out and watched Top Chef until we got hungry again and got dressed and ready to go to Shower #2 which was the much awaited Lingerie Shower.

Whistle, whistle, holler, whistle!

We made a quick stop to Subway (and it wasn't even my idea! See, I told you--God answered my cry above and beyond the call of duty). After paying $8.50 for a sandwich, chips, and drink (a rip-off for which we are still bitter), we headed off to shower Earle (I mean, Bri) with some necessary unmentionables.

See? Not embarrassed at all. Yet, that is.

First game was designed to help Bri should she find herself having to get dressed in the dark on her honeymoon.

Looking good, sista.

Next it was on to the customary Wedding Dress out of Toilet Paper activity. Here is Lin, in a picture entitled: When Nuns Get Married.

All of the TP Brides.

After a few more games, it was time for Bri to open all of her gifts. And because I have a strict "No Underwear Pictures" rule on this blog, I will not show all of the beautiful things she got. There is a running joke around these parts about how Bri keeps having all of these showers and getting all of these presents and all Earle gets is to help load and unload them after the party is over. Earlie, a lot of these were for you my friend.

The party friends...

Linnie and me

Bri and BFF Meredith

Me with my Kimberly (K is a my childhood friend who married another childhood friend, Josh, who is best friends with my childhood friend, Earle, who is marrying my college friend, Brittany). There will be a quiz.

All the Panty-givers with the bride

After the party, it was time to say goodbye, and I was lucky enough to have these two girls ride home with me.

Mer and Brooke (Bri's sister)

We had the best time for the next 3 1/2 hours chatting about the upcoming bachelorette weekend, relationships, and ended with some really deep God-talking. It was a perfect way to end a great weekend.

Next up: Bachelorette Weekend at the beach! The fun really never stops.