Random Thoughts

So I just need to ramble for awhile...

• I am incredibly nervous for today. I hardly slept a wink last night. Today, I have a new student starting. Not just any student -- a foreign, Korean student. I have no idea what today is bringing and I have no idea where to even start and I really dislike feeling lost. But that's how it feels. 
• Even though I'm nervous, I'm excited to learn about my new student and to try and help her learn English. I think that she might be exactly what I need to settle my antsy "Why do I teach" feelings as of late.
• Friday was a rotten evening. I was in a bit of a funk due to the fact that I was here and not where my heart yearned to be. It goes back to the thought that growing up, having a real job, and moving away from your best friends stinks. 
• In a way to combat my "I hate my horrible life" phase of Friday, I spent all of Saturday and Sunday scrubbing every nook and cranny in my apartment. I'm not sure this place has ever been this clean. I even rearranged and finally took my boxes and bike down to my storage unit. Nothing like getting to it after 2 1/2 years. It feels good. Really good.
• Part of my weekend of power cleaning is brought on by the fact that my parents are coming for Thanksgiving. While we aren't celebrating at my house, they are bringing a Christmas tree for our church so they are going to be stopping in Madison to visit. My "mass cleaning because my mom is coming to visit" is just another reminder that I am turning into my mom!!
• I'm beyond thrilled that this is only a 2 1/2 day week at school. I need a break and these students need a break! Let's be honest, we need a break from each other!

Hmm....so I'm done rambling for now. Thanks for listening!

Thankful November: Day 21

I'm thankful for...Steph!

Youngsters -- Jake, Kendra, Steph, and I

Circa 2006, but I love this one of us!

Guess what? Today is my best friend's birthday! Do you have a friend that you have spent your entire life with? I do. We went to preschool together, grade school, and even high school. In fact, the first time we were ever living in different cities was when we were 19 and heading for our first year of college. Then just a year later and we were together again and eventually living together. I know how incredibly special it is to have someone who is your best friend for your entire life because that's what Steph is for me.

The best part about our friendship is that it runs deep. It runs to places that few friendships go. I love that no matter what is going on in my life or hers, we can be a simple text, phone call, facebook message away. And the best part is that a simple "I just watched "Shag" and missed you." message can mean just as much as a full out conversation.

Steph,

I hope you have a simply wonderful birthday! Thank you for being a friend that goes beyond words and for always being there and loving me through all these years. I cannot imagine anyone else I would have rather grown up with. I love you! Can't wait to see you again soon!

Thankful November: Day 20

I'm thankful for...Alana.

Christmas Extravaganza 2008 - Alana, Me, Nicki - We love Christmas Cheer!

Today is my dear friend, Alana's, birthday! YAY! Since I'm still bumming that I couldn't be in Valentine to spend the weekend celebrating with Breaking Dawn, Holiday Previews, Italian feasts, and the like, I figured I would simply remember Alana by writing about her!

In a few words, Alana is -- Ah-mazing! Organized! Super Party Planner! Excel Spreadsheet Extraordinaire! Dedicated! My Role Model!

No joke -- not only has Alana become one of my closest friends, she is also the person I consider to be my biggest role model. She lives her life for others. She is always working to make sure everyone around her is being served by her work. For me, she emulates what it means to be servant for Christ by the time and effort she puts into serving others Not only that, she is the easiest person to talk to. Any time. Any place. Any subject. She can be a sounding board or can offer that piece of advice that just makes everything finally fall into place.

I have known Alana my entire life as her youngest sister is my very best friend. However it wasn't until about 5 years ago when she moved in with us that I got to know her on a deeper level. I look back and am so blessed that God allowed her to take the chance to move back to Eau Claire and to then take over the dorm mom job at Immanuel. Having her there during that time in my life has helped me grow and learn from her. She has taught me so many ah-mazing things from the glorious workings of an Excel spreadsheet to the importance of immersing yourself in the Scriptures to stay rooted in Christ.

Alana,
I am beyond words thankful for how you have shown me what it means to be a strong woman and a follower of Christ. Thank you for being an example and role model! I hope you had a splendid birthday! I love you!

Thankful November: Day 19

I'm thankful for...my parents!

circa 2010 - Mt. Rushmore

Do you have ever one of those days when you think, "I'm turning into my mom..." or "I'm turning into my dad."? The older I get, the more I have those moments. But lately, I've noticed that when that happens, I'm not hiding in terror because I'm becoming them, I'm smiling because I can't think of anyone else I'd rather emulate.

My dad is man of few words. Partly because he is more of a watcher than a speaker, but mostly because I think he chooses to speak only when he truly has something to say. (Okay, so another reason might be because he mumbles so we aren't really sure what he says!) My dad can be a real joker. He is great at finding the good in the things that are happening. In fact, through all the seasons of life that I've been with my dad, I can't think of a time when I've seen him give up and be defeated. Instead, he keeps on working and says that's just how things go. It's a trait that I love about him and one that I can only hope to have!

My mom is a doer. She can out-do, just about anyone I know. She has worked more than one job for as long as I can remember. (she's even had four at one time!) It's not lying that her love language is most certainly acts of service.. However, the one thing I love the most about my mom is her commitment to family. You never have to guess whether or not she'll be on your side. You never have to wonder if she will be there when things are falling apart. You never have to wonder because she will always choose your side.

God has blessed me with parents that have stuck around in hard times and shown me that marriage and family is about commitment. Commitment to one another, commitment to Christ, and commitment to family. I am beyond thankful that God has given me my parents to raise me and mold me.

Thankful November: Day 18

I'm thankful for...Immanuel.

Source: picasaweb.google.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

(Ingram - one of the original buildings on campus and the original faculty of Immanuel)

As a child, I knew from little on that I would one day graduate from 8th grade at Grace in Valentine and start my high school career 500 miles away in Eau Claire, WI on the campus of Immanuel. I grew waiting for that day. Not because I wanted to get away from Valentine or my family, but because I had grown up hearing all the great things about Immanuel. Things like the great friends you make, the ability to have your classes centered around God's Word, the chance to grow and learn from your mistakes.

I won't sugar coat it and tell you everything was great about my time at Immanuel. There were days when I couldn't wait to graduate and get away. Days when all I wanted was a home cooked meal or a hug from my parents. However, looking back 12 years later (ugh! I'm old!) I don't for one second regret my time at Immanuel. In fact, I am SO thankful for that time.

The 8 years I spent at Immanuel for High School and College are the years in my life that have helped to shape the woman I am today. Immanuel taught me how to be myself, how to make friends, how to live and work with others. But most importantly, it taught me to make sure Christ is always at the center of my life.

I am so thankful that my parents knew how important it was that I attend Immanuel and that they sacrificed being with me during my high school years so that I could be there. I could keep going on, but this video does a good job, so I'll just let it speak for me!

Friday Five: Children's Books

My Friday Five is inspired by the giveaway Jess is doing over at The Macs. It's all about children's books, which I adore, so I figured I'd go ahead and share a few of my favorite books with you!

{If you haven't checked out Jess's blog lately {or ever}, do it! 1 - She has been doing a whole week of giveaways and there are some mighty cute items! 2 - She has 3, 1 now in heaven, adorable children, and 
3 - she has a very special heart for the Lord that she shares so beautifully on her blog.}

Without further adieu:

Source: lulu.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

1 - Love You Forever by: Robert Munsch -- I adore this book.
It makes me tear up every time I read/sing it. This book makes a great baby present!
Source: amazon.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

2. Blueberries for Sal by: Robert McCloskey -- Who am I kidding? I love all of his books!
This one is my favorite because Sal is just so sweet!

Source: Uploaded by user via Jennifer on Pinterest

3. The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins by: Dr. Seuss -- I'm fairly certain that you can never go wrong with Dr. Seuss. He entertains children and adults alike. This is book is no exception!

Source: barnesandnoble.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

4. My Friend is Sad by: Mo Williams -- Mo Williams has the best characters ever! In addition to Piggie and Elephant, he also has the Pigeon books. If you are new to Mo Williams, you have to check him out!
His simple books are beyond wonderful. {I have used this book as gifts for friends who are going through a rough time. It's such a cute pick me up!}

Source: amazon.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

5. Tadpole's Promise by: Jeanne Willis -- This has a great surprise ending!
I am so glad someone introduced me to this book, because it's one of my favorites!

Wanna join in? Link up by visiting Kat from Living Like The Kings!

Thankful November: Day 17

I'm thankful for...new beginnings.

Source: killmydaynow.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Starting something can be so hard. I am the queen of thinking, "On Monday, I will start eating healthy and working out." Monday rolls around -- nothing. Tuesday rolls around -- nothing. Next thing I know it's another weekend and I'm thinking about starting again on Monday. It's the cycle that has become my life for the last few years. The part that frustrates me the most is that I want it. I really do, but when it comes down to it, I'm really just afraid to start.

Two weeks ago, I decided I was starting. The mental ping-pong games needed to stop and I needed to get serious. So far -- it's working. No soda. No eating out. Working out. I'm still in awe that I've stuck it out so far. And you know what? It's hard work. Every day, I have to convince myself to go to the gym and plan my meals ahead. BUT, I haven't felt this good in a long time. My attitude is so much better. My sleep schedule is incredibly better. My energy is practically out of the roof. I like how this feels.

So today, I am thankful for new beginnings. With them, I have a whole new approach and outlook on this blessed life the Lord has given me!

Thankful November: Day 16

I'm thankful for...Jeff.

Jeff and our dad

When I think about my brother, Jeff, a whole slew of memories come to mind. Like how easy he was to please as a child. All the kid needed was a sippy cup of apple juice and a movie. Or how I would dance to Alan Jackson's "Summertime Blues" with him in my arms and he would laugh and giggle. Or when he ran through the glass on our storm door. (It was very scary especially since he was only 4!) Or when we thought he might not have the full use of his right hand because he sawed through his fingers. (Yes -- sawed) Or when he took the time to help a new camper wash the mashed potatoes out of his hair. Or how this kid has had his fair share of road blocks thrown in his way, but how he pushes through them in his own way and on his own terms. Or when I watched him spend hours making the cutest pink ribbons for his "Jeff's Angels" dance crew at camp. 

Jeff' and his Angels

Jeff and I share a bond that goes unspoken, but completely understood. In fact, I'm not sure I can even fully explain it. What I do know is that even though he might get annoyed that I sometimes act like his "mom" and I get annoyed when he doesn't think about consequences, he will always be behind me 100%. He will always choose my side and support me. And I for him.

Jeff, I hope you know how much I love and care for you! Behind that sometimes hard facade there is a great big gentle giant, just don't forget to let him show! It's obvious that the Lord has great things planned for you. Remember to only "Be Still" and let Him work for you. I love you!

Thankful November: Day 15

I'm thankful for...my students.

We love the zoo!

This year I have 3 students (until next week, when we add a Korean foreign exchange student for 3 months). Count 'em -- one. two. three. Still not the smallest classroom I've had, but this year has been quite unique. In addition to only having 3 students, they are all boys. Can I let you in a little secret??? I love the fact that they are boys. We get to build with Legos, blocks, Lincoln Logs, Tinker Toys, and K'nex in our free time. Our favorite recess activity involves creating a whole new world in the woods behind the school. This world involves a money system of pine cones, a large assortment of weapons which are sticks, and an even better system of government, by which you do go to trial and possibly jail for the misuse of weapons, stealing of "money", or not cleaning your area of the fort. It makes me smile just thinking of it.

To add to that greatness, these boys are just funny. A little competitive, but funny. They also have big hearts of service. Every week we get the chance to volunteer over at a local assisted living and my heart soars watching them interactive with the elderly. They treat them like royalty. They are kind and compassionate. They never get frustrated or annoyed when the sweet ladies want to hold their hands or ask them their name seven times. Last week, my 7th grader even danced with a sweet old lady who asked him. *tear*

These boys have made this year great and I can't wait for everything else that comes our way. 

Thankful November: Day 14

I'm thankful for...Music.

There isn't a day that goes by that I don't listen to music. Whether getting ready in the morning, in the car, at school, working out, or for a good ole' cleaning session, my tunes are a playing. It what makes my day better. In fact, I've noticed that if I'm humming it usually means I'm in a good mood! And I like all kinds of music -- classical, musicals, Christian, pop, rock, oldies, etc. The only genre I can do without is rap--eek!

So I decided that I would go ahead and include a smattering of my favorite tunes at this moment. Enjoy!

Thankful November: Day 13

I'm thankful for...Megan!

Attending a boarding school for high school and then college have given me the chance to make some of the more priceless friends. Megan is no execption. We first bonded over the Freshman Newcomer's Party and our friendship has only blossomed. (minus my Junior/her Sophomore year, but who's counting!) In my close group of friends, I admire Megan because she is not afraid to do new things. Like play college Softball. {there is something great about going to a college softball game and being like "Yep...she's my friend and she's a rockstar catcher!"} OR Buy a house. Yep, she did that and she's my friend. P.S. She has a great new house!

Megs,
Thank you for being an amazing friend and for showing me that it's okay to take leaps and try something new! I miss and love you lots!

By the way -- tune in next week for a couple of friends who get to celebrate birthdays and who I'm super thankful for!

Thankful November: Day 12

I'm thankful for ... my dear friend, Nicki!

Check out how awesome we were in high school! 

Reasons why I'm thankful for Nicki:

1. Our friendship is easy. I can call her at any time and we pick up right were we left off. 
2. She states her mind. This is one of the things I admire the most about her. She will always tell you how she feels and you never have to wonder if there is more.
3. She loves and cares for her family. She gave up her career, moved home, and is taking care of her mother and younger brother as her mom battles brain cancer. That's a huge move for a 27 year old. One I truly admire her for taking and not once questioning.
4. She knows my deep secrets and still loves me.
5. She is one motivated girl! She runs 10ks like they're nothing, she's doing a 1 year grad program and kicking butt. She sets her mind to something and always sees it through!
6. We just get each other and there is something extremely comforting in that fact

Nemo, my love, Thank you for finding it in your heart to love me and be my friend in though we hated each other during grade school. Rooming with you our freshman year of high school changed my life. (Room 106: The Room With The Secret Door!) I love you! ~ Jello :-)

Thankful November: Day 11

I'm thankful for...all the Veterans!

Source: google.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

There is just something wonderful about a Veteran. Yes, they've sacrificed their lives for mine. Yes, they've shown what true bravery and honor looks like. But for me, it's the pride they display. Pure, honest pride -- not in themselves -- but in their country. It gives me goosebumps listening to a Veteran tell me about the days when he served in the war. It gives me tears when I see videos and pictures of soldiers coming home to their families. But the goosebumps and tears are all linked back to their faces and the pride and devotion they have for their country.

Today, I am remembering all the members of our military who have put their lives on the line so that I might enjoy a safe and free nation. Today, I am praying for the families who serve their country by continuing on with life when their husband, father, wife, mother, child serve in the military. Today, I am praying that God will be with those who have lost loved ones in the military service. Today, I am praying that God will continue to be with the men and women in our military as they serve Him by serving our nation.

Friday Five: John Wayne

I was perusing Pinterest yesterday and some how decided to search "John Wayne." {Isn't it amazing how you can start at "Thanksgiving" and end at "John Wayne?"} Once my search results displayed a plethura of pictures, I was reminded how much he makes me miss my childhood. "Childhood?!?" you ask. Why yes! I grew up watching (and re-watching) John Wayne. My brother was a big fan of playing "Cowboys and Indians," and I was in the business of making his life happy, so I played and watched. A LOT. {and maybe enjoyed it myself...}

As I was trying to decide what to do my Friday Five on today, it become evident that I should share with you my all-time favorite John Wayne movies! So sit back in your saddle. Grab your gun and hostler. {every watcher knows you have to be ready to help John shoot any bad guys} and ENJOY!

Source: granvillehouse.blogspot.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

1. McClintok - "This is probably the first marriage I've ever seen start out with a spanking!" Ah yes! Love the style of this movie!

2. Rooster Cogburn - Hello, Katherine Hepburn!

3. The Cowboys - This is one of my all-time favorites, but I hate that he dies!

4. True Grit - While I can't stand Maddie Ross, there are some signature John Wayne fighting quotes in this movie. "Fill your hands...." Plus you get to see his soft side.

5. Big Jake - When your brother's name is "Jake," you are guaranteed to be watching this one all the time. I'm pretty sure after watching this he was convinced he was named after the guy!

Wanna join in? Link up by visiting Kat from Living Like The Kings!

Thankful November: Day 10

I'm thankful for...God's love.

Source: akosihaney.tumblr.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16

"This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins." 1 John 4:9-10

"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38-39

Thankful November: Day 9

I'm thankful for...SNOW!

Whew! That was hard to write. I had a whole blog post done for today, but then it started snowing around these parts. My students were cheering when the rain switched to snow. While I was sitting at my desk trying not to cry. {No joke} Then I remembered this month is about being thankful and I'm throwing this up as a reminder that I should be thankful even for the snow.

SNOW! And my beaut of a car!

Snow really does make recess 10x more enjoyable. The activities we do in the snow are endless. Sledding, snowball fights, snowman contests, running contests, snow angels -- you name it, we do it in snow. But when it snows on November 9th, I can't help but be bit sad. And even though this will melt by Friday, I know this is a just a preview of what is coming! 

Thankful November: Day 8

I'm thankful for...a reliable car.

(Sorry no picture! All I have is one of my phone showing the cracked bumper and taillight from someone backing up into me--it's not pretty and it's not worth the effort to get it off of my phone)

Over the last few days, my car had been acting a bit funny. It wasn't starting on the first try and then when it did start it was resetting my radio/clock/trip meters/avg mpg meters and my gauges would flutter. My gut reaction was the battery. But my gut isn't so great with cars. So. I called my dad.

I think that's just a daughter's natural reaction. The best part is that I know my dad is not a car guy. Yet every time, I call him. And every time he says the same thing, "Well, it could be a lot of things. Better take it somewhere and have it looked at" I'm here to tell you, yesterday was no different. Sigh.
So...I called my brothers. The one I trust the most with cars NEVER answers his phone, which left me to my older brother who was in agreement that it sounded like my battery.

An hour and $110 later, I have a new battery and a much better sense of peace about driving my car. I just keep reminding myself that it is better to have it fixed and reliable then to be stranded on the side of the road. Ah yes, the joys of owning a vehicle and maintaining it!

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Shannanigans Giveaway!

Source: shannonsswell.blogspot.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Want to win this super cute necklace? Go check out Shannon's blog - Shannanigans. There are a ton of ways to win!

While you're there, read her blog. I promise you won't be disappointed. She is hi-larious! No joke. I just about pee myself reading her posts. Plus she just started a party planning company - Bottle Pop Party Company! This lady has every detail figured out -- no joke. Be sure to check out her pics from her son's Gnome birthday party. She also did a monthly photo shoot with her son. I die laughing at these. Especially his 4 month pictures.

Seriously, do not waste any more time at my boring blog -- GO and SEE. Oh -- and enter the giveaway!

Thankful November: Day 7

I'm thankful for...Mondays.

Source: facebook.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

I know, I know. Normally people hate Mondays, but I've come to enjoy the start of a new week. (Yep. I'm a firm believer in Monday being the start of a new week. Sundays are my recharge days.) There is something great about the promise of a new week. I like the feeling of getting a fresh-start every 7 days. The teacher in me likes Mondays because the students come in with fresh minds and I love that my lesson plan book is all nice, neat, and thought out.

It's true -- I love Mondays!

Thankful November: Day 6

I'm thankful for...sleep!

Source: agreatimpression.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

That extra hour of sleep was exactly what I needed last night. After having to work an 11 hour shift instead of a 5 hour shift, I was exhausted. But more than just being thankful for "falling back," I am thankful that sleep comes easily to me. I have never had much of an issue with falling asleep and staying asleep. There are times when I go to bed and I'm not quite tired yet, but a little reading and I'm out. My dad struggles with insomnia so I've seen first-hand how hard it can be to live and deal with. It makes me even more thankful that it hasn't been an issue for me.

Isn't sleep great?

Thankful November: Day 5

I'm thankful for...my sweet nieces. 

Aren't they just the cutest?

Sweet Sisters

E

Z

The Cheerleader and The Chicken

Matchy Sisters

I'm not sure I can even remember what life felt like prior to having these two sweet nieces. All I know is that I have a lot of love overflowing for these two little girls.

Miss Z loves cards, all things girly, Barney, and Elmo. (I approve the Barney watching, but Elmo drives me bonkers!) She also has it figured out that I call my parents house every time they are babysitting so that I can talk to her. Now she hears the phone ring and says, "Jenn." Smart little thing! I have also taken up sending her a card on a monthly basis. It's a fun and fairly cheap way to keep "in touch" and to make her day!

Miss E is growing up quickly. Rumor has it she is a bit of a chunk, but a cute one at that. She might have come into the world smaller than her sister, but she is now just a few pounds away from being heavier! Word on the street is that she is a very smiley and happy baby. Christmas can't come soon enough. I haven't seen her since she was just over a month old. 

Friday Five: Words that make me shutter

I'm going to have a hard time paring down this list...

1 ~ moist: {cringe} Ewww...I think I hear moist and then think "sticky, warm, smelly" and I just can't handle it.

2 ~ curd: Now I love me a good cheese curd, but just the word "curd" is willie-inducing.

3 ~ waffle: I can't even explain why this one makes me shudder, maybe it's because I don't like to eat them?

4 ~ undies: I mean really??? Are you 90 and talking to a 2 year old??? YUCK! (panties is in the same boat!)

5 ~ chunk -y,-s,: Another cheese term, but it hurts my ears! Please make it stop!!

Thankful November: Day 4

I'm thankful for...the memories...

Top: My dad fighting the fire.
Bottom: Fire and smoke pouring out.

On what seemed like a normal early June morning, my cell phone rang. Upon opening my groggy eyes, I saw it was my mom. I was not surprised as we talk all the time, but slightly annoyed as my 6 hours of sleep was just not quite enough. The words she spoke were enough to send me flying out of bed and practically to my car to drive the 12 hours home to Nebraska. After a lot of uncontrollable tears, she had me convinced that driving home was not the answer. Instead, I sat at home and cried all day long. Our family owned business, Ohlmann Building Center, was burning to the ground. To add to it, my dad and brother, who are local volunteer firemen in our small community, were battling a blaze that was destroying the only place they had ever worked. The business that we had all grown up helping at was going to be gone.

Out of God's great mercy, no one hurt or harmed in or while fighting the fire. The day following the fire, we were open for business. (The back shops and lumber area went untouched) Now almost one and half years later, we have a completely new and beautiful building. A building that far exceeds anything we could have imagined. It's real pretty!

While this whole thing seems tragic (and at the time it did feel that way), it has proved to be one of the greatest blessings in our lives. As a family, we grew. We were reminded that buildings and possessions are but "things" of this world. We were reminded how the Lord gives and the Lord takes because all things belong to Him. We are but His stewards. We were reminded to trust. To trust in His timing, His will, His plan. We were reminded that He promises us that He will always work things out for our good.

 "And we know that all things work for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

We were reminded how great of a community we lived in and how important our church family was. The outpouring of support and love was beyond our comprehension.

And we learned to cherish the memories. The fire destroyed the building and many precious heirlooms (100 year old business has some neat treasures inside) but it did not and will not destroy the many memories we all have of "growing" up at Ohlmann Building Center. I can still picture my grandpa (and then my dad's) office as if I could drive there today and walk right in. I can still remember what it was like getting a chance to use the cash register for the first time! I can still remember how much I despised cleaning the men's employee bathroom -- PIGS!

So today, I'm thankful for the memories!

Remind Me Who I Am...

I heard this on the radio. Then I watched the video. Now I'm hooked. The End.

Thankful November: Day 3

I'm thankful for...Jessica!

The birthday's just keep on coming this month. Today is my sister's, Jessica, 20th birthday! (I find it hard to believe that my parents only have 2 of their 5 children still in their teens.) BTW - isn't this picture great? It's one of my all-time favorites!

Jess is a great sister. Not only is she the life of the party, but she also had a huge heart. I love that you never know what she might do or say next, but you can bet your dollar that she is one reliable girl. She gladly gives up her time and energy to help others whether it be by planning and directing a summer youth camp or just showing up to hang out with an old friend.

Lou -- I hope you have a simply splendid birthday! And although I'm still jealous that you are in Nebraska visiting and I am not, I really hope you are having a wonderful time. Love you!

Thankful November: Day 2

I'm thankful for...Shelby!

Another cousin. Another birthday! Today is her sweet sixteen! This only means one thing -- I'm old. While there are some great perks to being the oldest grandchild, getting old first is not one of them! But I digress...

I love how Shelby is full on crazy! This girl goes a million miles a minute. She is constantly on the move between sports, choir, friends, dance, chimes, you name it -- this girl does it. And not only is she involved in a ton, but she EXCELS at all of them. Her above average abilities make me choose to sit in a cold hockey rink when it's already below zero outside! Another top of all of this, Shelby is just a fun, free spirit. It takes a lot to knock this girl down. Happy Birthday, Shelbs!

Thankful November: Day 1

I'm going to try to hop back on the Blog-bandwagon by doing a daily "thankful" post this month. I can already tell it's a bit ambitious, seeing as how the first post is already late! Oh well. Here goes.

Day 1: 11-1-11 (I'm a number geek and this just makes my mind soar! Pretty sure my students were sick of hearing about how cool it was yesterday. They will hate me come 11-11-11!)

I'm thankful for...Becca!

Talk about a great cousin. This girl just blows my mind with her thoughtfulness and selflessness. She's grown up in a family of all boys. And we are talking full-blown, deer-hunting, heart-eating, full-out wrestling boys. But she holds her own. She even does the deer hunting business. When she's not out dueling with the men, she's in the kitchen baking or out shopping with the girls. Talk about well-rounded.

Today is Becca's 15th birthday. And for gifts we like to exchange incredibly ugly Christmas ornaments, and this year I found the perfect one. Check this puppy out. (Our only rule is that it must sparkle and contain feathers!) I can't wait to see her next weekend and for her to add that guy to her collection!

Thankful Thursday...

***Capital Square - Downtown Madison. Although this place is now chalked up and filled with posters, this place is still very beautiful. I especially love Wednesday nights during the summer for their concerts. The place fills and it turns into a great place for people watching -- which I love!

***Open windows and fresh air.

***Homemade Salsa. YUM!

***An awakened love for reading -- thank you Karen Kingsbury!

***Walking with friends.

***A sister who I get to see this weekend as she rocks her roll as a bridesmaid at our dear friend's wedding!

***Tomorrow's lunch date with a sweet friend and her daughter!

***A weekend away before I have to work over 35 hours at the Family Vid next week -- Oui!

What are you thankful for today???

Friday Five - 5 Random Favorites

It appears that I am getting very good at posting on Friday's for the Friday Five, but I am lacking on the other days of the week. Maybe I need to come up with an alliteration theme for each day. Feel free to give a shout out if you have any good ideas!

Today, I thought I would share with you some random favorite things.

1. Favorite Blog - While I do enjoy me some P-dub, my go-to-can't-miss-a-post blog is Katie over at Marriage Confessions. She is down right hilarious, PLUS she has such a great and genuine heart. I just love how deeply she shares. Oh and she has two of the cutest little kiddos -- Bean Man and Gracie-Girl! So, if you haven't checked her out, DO IT!
2. Favorite Appliance - Weird huh? Well, I recently received an Iced Tea Maker from my parents. It's a whole lot of wonderful! It's an understatement to say that I love sun tea. (I just returned from a 5 week vacation visiting the parents in Nebraska, we went through at least 1 gallon of tea per day -- we're tea people, but it must be straight up...no lemon, no sugar!) The problem is I have a spider-infested patio off of my wee-bit-sketchy apartment, so I don't enjoy putting my jar outside in such conditions. This Iced Tea Maker is just the ticket.

3. Favorite Author/Book Series - Remember how I told you that I got rid of my cable? It's going great so far, mostly because now I can read! I've always enjoyed reading, but lately it's almost consuming me and that's because I'm reading the Baxter Family Series by Karen Kingsbury. If you are any sort of fan of Christian Fiction, pick these up. You won't be disappointed!
4. Favorite Aunt - Okay, so I really don't play favorites. She is just my favorite aunt right now because I haven't seen her in over a year and she is coming to visit in just a few short weeks and I am beyond excited. My Aunt Desi is wonderful. A wonderful mom, a christian wife, a beautiful friend. Without a doubt, one of my biggest role models. I loved when we lived a mere hour away from each other, but last year they moved all the way to Washington, and now I miss her something fierce. I can't wait to see her!
5. Favorite Song - This changes almost by the minute, but for the last week it has stayed the same. It's not a new song, in fact, I've known it for quite some time. However, last week we sang this song at our VBS and every time I had chills and tears from watching those beautiful children sing and do the actions for this song. Now, I just can't stop listening to it!

Friday Five: Things I Love About My Sister

This coming Saturday will mark the end of my 4th week of being back in Nebraska to visit for the summer. On Monday, I will try to locate all of my belongings and start the trek back to Wisconsin. These last 4 weeks have been spent at home doing a whole slew of things, all of which have been spent with my little sister, Johanna, at my side. So, I figured as a good bye to home, I would give her the spotlight for my Friday Five!

(Update -- just snapped last night post showers because I realized I still needed a picture for this post! Oh boy...)

1. Her Laugh. No joke, this girl has got one crazy laugh. It usually involves her snorting and ending up on the floor, which just makes everything even more hilarious.

2. Her Gentle Spirit. Johanna has always been the sweet girl who will do everything she can to make sure she doesn't hurt someone else. In our house of 5 siblings, she was always the peacemaker and never once took sides.

3. Her Diva-ness. While she is a sweetheart to her core, this girl can rock some serious "Diva-ness," especially if she is lacking in sleep. The good part is that it's turned into the running joke now, and she just laughs it off when we call her on it! Last week I scored a silicone bracelet which reads "DIVA" so, of course, I needed to snatch it up for her, but the best part is that she actually wears it! Love her.

4. Her Nicknames. I love nicknames. However, I only like nicknames that come for the original name. Johanna has so many and I love that she answers to all of them even in public! Things like -- Jo-Jo, Jo-Johanna, Joj, Jo, Hannah-Jo, Jo-Be, and the list just goes on!

5. Her Love of Home. Johanna has always been the one who struggles with being away from home the most. Her first 2 years of attending camp, she bawled every night, even though my mom was a cook, I was a counselor, and 2 other siblings were also campers. She just missed being at home. Now that she attends school in Eau Claire -- 10 hours away, this girl is known for having a ROUGH time transitioning back into being away from home. While a big part of it comes back to missing mom and dad, I think the things she misses the most come back to just being in her home environment. I love that she loves home!

Friday Five: Favorite TV Shows

In approximately 10 days, I will be no longer have Dish. This means that my biggest form of entertainment will be gone. Over the last 2 years, I have found quite a few TV shows to watch. (read: become addicted to) I decided to get rid of Cable/Dish for a few reasons. 1 - Money (Doesn't it always come back to money???) 2 - Lifestyle (I feel like I need to find other ways to occupy my extra time)

Therefore, in honor of my last few days as a TV watcher, I thought I would share with everyone my current favorite shows.

NOTE: These are in no particular order....as that would have been way too tough for my analytical-self!

1. Dancing With The Stars
I love this show in so many ways! It never fails, my favorite star is never the one to actually win and there is always one who makes it to the finals that is not a great dancer, but I still love it! I think this might be one of the few shows I will continue to follow online!

2. Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice

I have been watching Grey's since the beginning and I might love the spin off of Private Practice even more than I like Grey's. Although, I will be happy to not have to watch Addison's crazy drama anymore!

3. The Bachelor / The Bachelorette
A-D-D-I-C-T-I-N-G! Oh boy. Every season I tell myself I'm not going to watch and next thing I know I'm hooked! It doesn't help that one of my best friends, Megan, and I like to share notes and thoughts each season. Ali's season I even went so far as to to take ACTUAL notes on each of the guys -- pathetic? Yes. But still so wonderful!

4. Biggest Loser
I just love me some Bob and Jillian. Plus there is always one person that I just fall in love with each season!

5. One Tree Hill
This is another show that I've been watching since it started. Each week, they find something else crazy to happen and yet I still come back to find out more!

What about you? Any favorite TV shows?

News...

Let me start off this post by telling all of you that I have a hard time watching the news on TV. Some call me "ignorant," but for me, watching the news just makes me crabby. It's always so one-sided and quite frankly, I'm okay with being "ignorant."

My dad on the other hand, he watches it every time he has the remote. Which in our house is anytime he's home. Naturally, he's been watching the Casey Anthony case. A case which has brought a LOT of coverage. While I usually try to find somewhere else to go, I have had to be upstairs working on project meaning I have been hearing the news coverage for the last week.

By now, even my ignorant self couldn't have missed the fact that Casey Anthony was found to be not guilty of manslaughter. While it appears that many people are quite upset by this decision, I couldn't help but think about those poor jurors. My prayers go out to all of them as I am sure they probably hated the fact that they were called on to be on that jury. Oh Lord, I'm not sure I have the strength to be a member of a jury. If you ever see fit for me to be in that situation please give me that strength. Until then, please grant all those who are called upon to serve in that capacity the ability to do so with an unbiased viewpoint.

But this afternoon as I was driving my sister to work and listening to a Christian Radio station, I happened to hear one lady make a stunning comment. A comment that I just can't get out of my head. She said, "Casey Anthony will probably be released soon and will possibly relocate and perhaps feel like she needs to find a church. What if it's yours? What if she's in your small group? In your living room?" WOW!! That will make you think...

So fellow bloggers/friends, your thoughts on the news in general? Casey Anthony? Welcoming her into your congregation? Give it to me!

Baseball and Nieces

I'm not sure if there is anything quite as sweet as what I witnessed the other night. My little brother (who really isn't so little anymore) had a double header baseball game, which meant we showed up to lend a little support and cheer him on.

My other brother and his new family of four even made it out to watch and I'm so glad that they did. It was so fun to watch Z follow "Uncle Jett" from outfield to dugout and back again. She was just so excited for him. He even waved to her when he was in the outfield -- she just couldn't stop laughing and clapping. Until he did one better, at the end of the inning he ran all the way over to where we were watching to see her. She was on cloud nine!

This is why being an aunt/uncle is simply amazing!

One of the not so great parts of the night -- my brother and sister-in-laws SUV. Not so great!!

Emmy Lou

June 23 was my 26th Birthday. I'm not a big birthday person. To me it's really just another day, but this year was much more special! Not only did I get to spent it with over 100 campers (who made sure to wish me Happy Birthday every chance they had), not only did I get to spent it with 2 guy counselors who share the same birthday as me (Nathan and Sam), but my new niece was born on my birthday! How cool is that??? And the best part, she is also my god-daughter.

Miss Emmy Lou was born on June 23 and came in around 9 lbs 5 oz. And let me just tell you that she is a doll!

(sorry this is blurry...my camera hates me today, so you get my mom's version)

Yesterday, she was baptized into God's gracious Kingdom with her uncle Josh and myself serving as Sponsors. What a blessing!!
I'm going to be home visiting for the next 3 weeks, so I'm hoping to get a lot of baby Emmy and big sister Zoey time!