i didn't realize that it has been since SEPTEMBER since i have posted stuff. gotta do better updating this digi-diary:
october...
discovered that birth control pills, stress and anxiety do not make a happy drenie. chemicals being shifted in my body so that i don't become pregnant until we're ready has not agreed with me at all. so i made my doctor switch me to another type of b.c. pill. the case of the unexplained crazies has subsided... for now.
decided that while going to a therapist is a good thing, find the RIGHT on may take longer than anticipated. although, the therapist answering a cell phone call during a session is probably NOT a good thing... right? yeah. i know. find a new one.
made the decision that planning for a wedding, while going to school, working full time and prepping a house to be put on the market during a horribly bad time for said housing market is not a good thing. simple is better. ditched the huge beach wedding crusade and now planning to elope instead. well, it's not really eloping if your parents are there, but nonetheless, simple elegant and very, very intimate is what we're going for. i suggested a justice of the peace, but sir contacted his former pastor and set up for us to be married at his old church instead. that decision alone scored major son-in-law points with my mother.
november...
on monday, november 10, sir and i exchanged vows in a small and private ceremony. it was virtually stress and drama free. romantic and very endearing. while i don't have any harsh feelings or ill will toward anyone who chooses to have the full blown shebang, it really wasn't my cup of tea. it was beautiful. later that evening, i gave the ONE gift i have been saving all my life for my true love--my virtue, my body, my virginity. that was a beautiful and spiritual experience as well. true ladies don't kiss and tell, so that's all i will share concerning that. so drenie is now mrs. sir!
all in all, through out the experience from the past few months, i learned that following one's heart is hard, but worth it in the end. i have not arrived in the least bit, but i'm definitely on a path to a happier, more satisfied and complete "me." i believe that is the way God intended for us all to live-- a life full of joy, peace contentment and of purpose.
be brave in following your dreams. be diligent and steadfast in your pursuit. be blessed.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, September 27, 2008
hold on tight...
like so many others i know, this week has been a royal beast for me. between the failing economy, rising food and fuel costs, unemployment rates creeping up it's a wonder that anyone can be hopeful in these turbulent times. yet "while i breathe, i hope." things are going to get better. and while situations are rather bleak and dreary right now, i'm confident that we all will pull through. situations, unfortunately, will get worse be for it gets better. and sadly we are at the beginning of the worse stage. however "while i breathe, i hope." hold on tight, everyone. it's going to get better.
be hopeful. be blessed.
be hopeful. be blessed.
Friday, September 19, 2008
so over it
ok. if ONE MORE PERSON asks me about how the wedding plans are coming, i'm going to scream!!!!! it's not that i'm not excited about becoming mrs. sir, i'm just so over the giddy, bubbly squeals and unsolicited advice i'm getting from all sides. yes, i'm engaged. yes, i'm getting married. yes, i'm moving. yadda, yadda, yadda exciting stuff. i'm over it.
but really, i have myself to blame. because i created a little engagement video and posted on you tube, then told all my friends and family about it. oh and did i mention that i THEN created a special blog, chronicling our journey to coupledom? BIG mistake. while it is a big deal and a life-changing experience, i probably should've taken sir's cues and played it very low key. because people are asking me if i'm ready. if i'm nervous. telling me that i can't move so far away from my family. or giving me their version of emily post's guide to wedding etiquette. i couldn't deal with all the fuss. i'm not used to all the attention on me. which prompted me to go shopping for my gown alone (see previous post). i even snapped at a friend who was asking me how wedding plans were coming. she unknowingly walked into an ambush because she didn't know that ten other people had asked me that SAME question just a few hours prior. i even lamented to my future hubby that i felt like a bad bride for not playing the part of a happy go lucky future mrs.
so, what am i do learn from all this? really. sometimes silence is golden. and from here on out, i'm taking a vow of silence where our nuptial plans are concerned. well, except for here. because let's face it. no one's really reading these entries except for me and occasionally sir and the wandering blogger. things are pretty much safe here in dreniesays land. which is good because i'll have some pretty intriguing stuff to thrown on here soon. so, if you're used to sharing too much at times with everyone, be like sir and keep it to yourself. somehow, it works out better that way. well, at least you don't get bombarded with all kinds of "advice" or "ass-vice" as masumi calls it.
be silent. be selective with whom you share your thoughts. be blessed.
but really, i have myself to blame. because i created a little engagement video and posted on you tube, then told all my friends and family about it. oh and did i mention that i THEN created a special blog, chronicling our journey to coupledom? BIG mistake. while it is a big deal and a life-changing experience, i probably should've taken sir's cues and played it very low key. because people are asking me if i'm ready. if i'm nervous. telling me that i can't move so far away from my family. or giving me their version of emily post's guide to wedding etiquette. i couldn't deal with all the fuss. i'm not used to all the attention on me. which prompted me to go shopping for my gown alone (see previous post). i even snapped at a friend who was asking me how wedding plans were coming. she unknowingly walked into an ambush because she didn't know that ten other people had asked me that SAME question just a few hours prior. i even lamented to my future hubby that i felt like a bad bride for not playing the part of a happy go lucky future mrs.
so, what am i do learn from all this? really. sometimes silence is golden. and from here on out, i'm taking a vow of silence where our nuptial plans are concerned. well, except for here. because let's face it. no one's really reading these entries except for me and occasionally sir and the wandering blogger. things are pretty much safe here in dreniesays land. which is good because i'll have some pretty intriguing stuff to thrown on here soon. so, if you're used to sharing too much at times with everyone, be like sir and keep it to yourself. somehow, it works out better that way. well, at least you don't get bombarded with all kinds of "advice" or "ass-vice" as masumi calls it.
be silent. be selective with whom you share your thoughts. be blessed.
Monday, September 8, 2008
i are the bride
so, i did something a little different today. i went wedding dress shopping alone. i know, i know. i can hear you screaming now "you're supposed to go with twenty of your closest friends, sisters and mother and let them oh and awe, yay or nay your nuptial fashions. you're not supposed to do that alone for goodness' sake!" yes. i'm a bad, bad bride for not thinking of others' whose feelings i may have crushed because i made this momentus trip alone. the bridezilla gods are frowning upon me as i type.
i've never been much of a big shopper. at least not for myself. i don't like endlessly trying on clothes that look fabulous on the hanger and nothing short of a trainwreck when on my body. i'm not one of those giddy, bubbly gals who feel the need for routine retail therapy sessions. usually shopping for myself is something i dread and when i do go, i like to be alone. when i do take someone with me, the trip turns in to a "what not to wear" episode. my taste in clothing and style are judged. i end up feeling more self conscience and less accomplished in my fashion sense. i will say that on some rare ocassions, i do enjoy finding a dress, blouse or pant that fits just right and is on sale. but i'm alone and the only judge and jury is me.
before i made the decision to go it alone on the wedding garb, i did a test run with my younger sisters last weekend. we hit the formal wear stores in the mall. and just as i predicted, the trial run quickly became a session about what they liked, not about what i felt was comfortable for me to wear. i'd pick something out, and they'd say "you like that?" in a tone that suggests that i was making a major fashion blunder. my hypothesis was proven true in this experiment.
so today, i spared myself the potential shame and embarrassment of not being fashionably adequate. i chose a day when bridal shops would be virtual ghost towns and the attention of the salesperson would not be distracted. i just wanted to try some dresses on, without judgment or hassle or hyped up drama. i showered, shaved the legs and put on pretty underwear--you know you gotta look right when undressing in front of a complete stranger. i drove to this lovely wedding boutique downtown.
the consultant was helpful and attentive. she didn't judge my lack of fashion sense or scoff when i picked out a style to try out. in fact, she even picked a few dresses that she though i would like. i tried on about 6 dresses and have narrowed down my choices to two. i'll bring in a friend who is actually making my wedding dress for me to get her take on my choices. i'm sure i'll catch hell about this later, but i'm glad i did it this way. i feel more in control doing things my way for a change. and in the end, it's supposed to be about me anyway, right? because i are the bride.
be assertive. be in control of your choices big or small. be blessed.
Monday, August 11, 2008
rules of engagement
tra·di·tion [truh-dish-uhn]
–noun
1. the handing down of statements, beliefs, legends, customs, information, etc., from generation to generation, esp. by word of mouth or by practice: a story that has come down to us by popular tradition.
2. something that is handed down: the traditions of the Eskimos.
3. a long-established or inherited way of thinking or acting: The rebellious students wanted to break with tradition.
4. a continuing pattern of culture beliefs or practices.
en·gage·ment Pronunciation[en-geyj-muhnt]
–noun
1. the act of engaging or the state of being engaged.
2. an appointment or arrangement: a business engagement.
3. betrothal: They announced their engagement.
4. a pledge; an obligation or agreement: All his time seems to be taken up with social engagements...
traditional engagement: where a man presents a his beloved with a ring, gets down on one knee and proposes. before that, he's asked her father's permission to marry her.
while some of these sentiments are wonderful and not bad in an of themselves, tradition is something that sir and i have pretty much laid aside for the most part.
we didn't meet in a traditional way (like at a local church function or through a mutual friend). we met on eHarmony. we don't really have a "traditional" relationship (living in the same city in which see each other all the time). more than 2,000 miles and a three-hour time difference separates us. and since it's fashionable to have sex before marriage we're probably considered non-traditional in that regard as we've decided to "wait" until marriage to do the "do."
typically people share all the details about their potential significant others right off the bat. we decided to wait almost five months before telling a lot of people. and traditionally it's the guy who says "i love you" first, right? and in person? well, i took the plunge and declared my love and i did over the phone--before we even met in person for the first time. so, it's only fitting that our engagement did not come about in a traditional manner. well sir did speak to my father and asked him and my mother for their blessing , but after he proposed to me.
tradition still has some small role in our relationship. pretty soon, everyone will know about our engagement, when and where our wedding will take place through our special blog. there, a different engagement story will be shared. the one after sir talked to my parents. it will be as lovely as the first, but the original will always be what i remember the most.
i'm posting our REAL story here, because let's face it. even though we've shunned tradition, others have yet to embrace this concept. particularly my father. he would be upset to find out that he had not been approached first by his nervous, brave future son-in-law before proposing. my sister and her now husband didn't follow that tradition and we NEVER heard the end of it. so we'll let tradition take the spotlight. i'm posting the real deal here. so without further delay, i give you.
The Proposal (original)
by Sir
I proposed to Drenie last night (Monday, June 16, 2008) at 8 p.m. It was really wonderful. I planned to ask her to marry me two weeks ago. I wanted to do it as soon as I finished my summer courses. I wanted to surprise Drenie and make it special. To be honest, I was a little nervous. It is not everyday that you propose to your soulmate.
Drenie told me earlier that day that she was feeling a little nervous. Last week, we set a date/time for Monday to talk about us coming together and making solid plans for getting married. The timing was perfect because it was right before our 13th-month anniversary (June 19th). I wanted to propose on a Monday. We have been courting for a little over a year now and I wanted to make it "official."
I decided I would give one of my "famous" speeches. About an hour into our conversation, I said "you are my heart's desire. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. You are the one that I want in my life. I thank the Lord for you. Thank you for being my friend and lover. Thank you for me loving me as I am with my third eye and triangle-shaped head (inside joke LOL). I have one question for you--WILL YOU MARRY ME, BABY?" She said "yes" right away and began to cry and I was just enjoying the moment. I don't know why I feel so calm and cool. I guess it hasn't hit me yet. Shouldn't I be a nervous wreck?! Lol. We still have much to discuss, but I am so happy right now.
by drenie
earlier that day i was feeling unusually nervous about our pending phone conversation. we decided to center the talk around coming together permanently. most of our conversations are about the future as a couple--so there was really no reason to be nervous, but I was.
during our conversation, sel said "i was thinking about how i keep waiting for the perfect time to do things." he talked about how he liked things to be just right and in order. i was wondering WHY he was saying these things. Then I asked myself "is he proposing?" he did have a little quiver in his voice, but i attributed that to him just being tired from the day. then sir went on to say the usual wonderful things he says (see his entry). at that point i figured he was giving one of his famous speeches or soliloquies. he told me how he knew from our very first phone conversation that i was THE ONE. he thanked me for being his friend and loving him for who he is. then he paused... and said "i just have one question, for you. will you marry me, baby?"
i immediately said "yes" and started to cry, to which he replied with an awestruck "wow." i must have cried for at least five minutes or so. then i asked him if i answered him. he laughed and said, "yes, hon. yes, you did." i said "yes, i will. yes!" again to make sure he knew my joyful response. i couldn't believe it. i was totally caught off-guard and by surprise... just the way he intended.
i used to dream up in my head how my future man would propose to me--as did every girl. something elaborate and flashy. tons of flowers and candles, a violin--all the hollywoodesque trimmings. there was no flashy or grand, illustrious show. there was no fanfare. in reality, it was just the two of us alone and enjoying this wonderfully beautiful moment. the ONLY thing that would make this proposal even better would be to hold him in my arms and kiss him. for now, i'm enjoying this delightful moment between us.
be ready for God's awesome surprises. be willing to create your own tradition. be blessed.
–noun
1. the handing down of statements, beliefs, legends, customs, information, etc., from generation to generation, esp. by word of mouth or by practice: a story that has come down to us by popular tradition.
2. something that is handed down: the traditions of the Eskimos.
3. a long-established or inherited way of thinking or acting: The rebellious students wanted to break with tradition.
4. a continuing pattern of culture beliefs or practices.
en·gage·ment Pronunciation[en-geyj-muhnt]
–noun
1. the act of engaging or the state of being engaged.
2. an appointment or arrangement: a business engagement.
3. betrothal: They announced their engagement.
4. a pledge; an obligation or agreement: All his time seems to be taken up with social engagements...
traditional engagement: where a man presents a his beloved with a ring, gets down on one knee and proposes. before that, he's asked her father's permission to marry her.
while some of these sentiments are wonderful and not bad in an of themselves, tradition is something that sir and i have pretty much laid aside for the most part.
we didn't meet in a traditional way (like at a local church function or through a mutual friend). we met on eHarmony. we don't really have a "traditional" relationship (living in the same city in which see each other all the time). more than 2,000 miles and a three-hour time difference separates us. and since it's fashionable to have sex before marriage we're probably considered non-traditional in that regard as we've decided to "wait" until marriage to do the "do."
typically people share all the details about their potential significant others right off the bat. we decided to wait almost five months before telling a lot of people. and traditionally it's the guy who says "i love you" first, right? and in person? well, i took the plunge and declared my love and i did over the phone--before we even met in person for the first time. so, it's only fitting that our engagement did not come about in a traditional manner. well sir did speak to my father and asked him and my mother for their blessing , but after he proposed to me.
tradition still has some small role in our relationship. pretty soon, everyone will know about our engagement, when and where our wedding will take place through our special blog. there, a different engagement story will be shared. the one after sir talked to my parents. it will be as lovely as the first, but the original will always be what i remember the most.
i'm posting our REAL story here, because let's face it. even though we've shunned tradition, others have yet to embrace this concept. particularly my father. he would be upset to find out that he had not been approached first by his nervous, brave future son-in-law before proposing. my sister and her now husband didn't follow that tradition and we NEVER heard the end of it. so we'll let tradition take the spotlight. i'm posting the real deal here. so without further delay, i give you.
The Proposal (original)
by Sir
I proposed to Drenie last night (Monday, June 16, 2008) at 8 p.m. It was really wonderful. I planned to ask her to marry me two weeks ago. I wanted to do it as soon as I finished my summer courses. I wanted to surprise Drenie and make it special. To be honest, I was a little nervous. It is not everyday that you propose to your soulmate.
Drenie told me earlier that day that she was feeling a little nervous. Last week, we set a date/time for Monday to talk about us coming together and making solid plans for getting married. The timing was perfect because it was right before our 13th-month anniversary (June 19th). I wanted to propose on a Monday. We have been courting for a little over a year now and I wanted to make it "official."
I decided I would give one of my "famous" speeches. About an hour into our conversation, I said "you are my heart's desire. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. You are the one that I want in my life. I thank the Lord for you. Thank you for being my friend and lover. Thank you for me loving me as I am with my third eye and triangle-shaped head (inside joke LOL). I have one question for you--WILL YOU MARRY ME, BABY?" She said "yes" right away and began to cry and I was just enjoying the moment. I don't know why I feel so calm and cool. I guess it hasn't hit me yet. Shouldn't I be a nervous wreck?! Lol. We still have much to discuss, but I am so happy right now.
by drenie
earlier that day i was feeling unusually nervous about our pending phone conversation. we decided to center the talk around coming together permanently. most of our conversations are about the future as a couple--so there was really no reason to be nervous, but I was.
during our conversation, sel said "i was thinking about how i keep waiting for the perfect time to do things." he talked about how he liked things to be just right and in order. i was wondering WHY he was saying these things. Then I asked myself "is he proposing?" he did have a little quiver in his voice, but i attributed that to him just being tired from the day. then sir went on to say the usual wonderful things he says (see his entry). at that point i figured he was giving one of his famous speeches or soliloquies. he told me how he knew from our very first phone conversation that i was THE ONE. he thanked me for being his friend and loving him for who he is. then he paused... and said "i just have one question, for you. will you marry me, baby?"
i immediately said "yes" and started to cry, to which he replied with an awestruck "wow." i must have cried for at least five minutes or so. then i asked him if i answered him. he laughed and said, "yes, hon. yes, you did." i said "yes, i will. yes!" again to make sure he knew my joyful response. i couldn't believe it. i was totally caught off-guard and by surprise... just the way he intended.
i used to dream up in my head how my future man would propose to me--as did every girl. something elaborate and flashy. tons of flowers and candles, a violin--all the hollywoodesque trimmings. there was no flashy or grand, illustrious show. there was no fanfare. in reality, it was just the two of us alone and enjoying this wonderfully beautiful moment. the ONLY thing that would make this proposal even better would be to hold him in my arms and kiss him. for now, i'm enjoying this delightful moment between us.
be ready for God's awesome surprises. be willing to create your own tradition. be blessed.
Monday, July 28, 2008
out of nowhere...
last night i fell asleep after a most beautiful prayer lead by sir (we pray after just about every phone conversation). he will be here in less than a week. we haven't seen each other in a while. but this time this trip, THIS visit is different. he's coming not only as my friend and soul mate, he's coming as my future husband. when last i saw him he was my boyfriend. this time when he steps of the plane and meets me in baggage claim, he'll be my fiance. he's coming to follow in tradition by talking with my parents and make our engagement official. this is very exciting. so our prayers are to be the best spouses and friends we can be to each other. his prayer was calming, serene and wonderful. as i closed my eyes, my thoughts were of him and the words to God he whispered.
this morning around seven, i woke up in a panicked state--eyes filled with tears and short of breath. i had this overwhelming sense of fear and anxiety. i had this feeling as if everything was coming to an end. i couldn't stop crying. the harder i tried, the more the tears flowed and my breathing became more erratic. my mind was racing in a million different directions. what if i don't make a good wife? what if i really can't move away from my family? what if where i'm going is worse than where i am now? how can i really trust that i won't be hurt or disappointed when we get married? what if my house doesn't sell by the time we get married? is selling really the right thing to do right now? what if? what if? what if?...
what's wrong with me? am i having a panic attack? i went to the bathroom to splash water on my face and tried to calm down. but the water just mixed in with the tears i was shedding. i kept crying out "God, please help me!" my eyes were so red and puffy from crying and i had to go to work today. had to be there in less than an hour. that small plea to God to help me did help a little. i pulled it together in enough time to put on a "face" and pretend everything was ok.
the last time i felt that panic-stricken and overwhelmed, was right before i graduated from college. this wave of dread seems to occur whenever there is a major change in my life. those same old feelings of guilt, hurt, fear, doubt and anxiety are upon me and this time it's stronger than the last time. i guess the change is bigger and more dramatic. last time, i talked to my mother and masumi about it. but this time i feel different. i don't think they'll understand where i'm coming from. i could share this episode with sir, but i don't think he'll get it either.
so many thoughts race through my mind. i just can't suppress whatever it is i'm trying to ignore any longer. i'm praying right now for God to help me cope or release me from this state of confusion. and i'm finally going to do something i should have done a long while ago, seek help and therapy. i want to be totally at peace with this major life change. i want to be totally and completely ecstatic about what God has blessed me with. the Bible says that God makes us rich and adds no sorrow to it. so these feelings i have are not from God. they can't be. where are they coming from? and will i ever be in that state of bliss i'm longing for? God, with this therapy, i'm praying so.
be willing to admit you need help. be willing to accept that there are things ONLY God can help with. be blessed.
this morning around seven, i woke up in a panicked state--eyes filled with tears and short of breath. i had this overwhelming sense of fear and anxiety. i had this feeling as if everything was coming to an end. i couldn't stop crying. the harder i tried, the more the tears flowed and my breathing became more erratic. my mind was racing in a million different directions. what if i don't make a good wife? what if i really can't move away from my family? what if where i'm going is worse than where i am now? how can i really trust that i won't be hurt or disappointed when we get married? what if my house doesn't sell by the time we get married? is selling really the right thing to do right now? what if? what if? what if?...
what's wrong with me? am i having a panic attack? i went to the bathroom to splash water on my face and tried to calm down. but the water just mixed in with the tears i was shedding. i kept crying out "God, please help me!" my eyes were so red and puffy from crying and i had to go to work today. had to be there in less than an hour. that small plea to God to help me did help a little. i pulled it together in enough time to put on a "face" and pretend everything was ok.
the last time i felt that panic-stricken and overwhelmed, was right before i graduated from college. this wave of dread seems to occur whenever there is a major change in my life. those same old feelings of guilt, hurt, fear, doubt and anxiety are upon me and this time it's stronger than the last time. i guess the change is bigger and more dramatic. last time, i talked to my mother and masumi about it. but this time i feel different. i don't think they'll understand where i'm coming from. i could share this episode with sir, but i don't think he'll get it either.
so many thoughts race through my mind. i just can't suppress whatever it is i'm trying to ignore any longer. i'm praying right now for God to help me cope or release me from this state of confusion. and i'm finally going to do something i should have done a long while ago, seek help and therapy. i want to be totally at peace with this major life change. i want to be totally and completely ecstatic about what God has blessed me with. the Bible says that God makes us rich and adds no sorrow to it. so these feelings i have are not from God. they can't be. where are they coming from? and will i ever be in that state of bliss i'm longing for? God, with this therapy, i'm praying so.
be willing to admit you need help. be willing to accept that there are things ONLY God can help with. be blessed.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
where is your sting?
i just learned that my former boss from a previous job has been diagnosed with cancer. at this point, the doctors can do no more for her and have sent her home to die with her family by her side. her husband who absolutely adores her is crushed beyond belief and is unable to cope with the fact that the love of his lover, soul mate and friend will not continue life's journey with him. i cannot even begin to imagine what sort of mindset he is in. or how she is coping with facing the end of her still young life. she is only her early 50s.
this unexpected and tragic news forces me to realize just how precious life is. truly it is a gift from God and that gift should be treasured. life should be and must be lived to the fullest potential He's given. with His grace we endeavor to achieve what purpose He's designed for us. life really is too short to be wasted on petty things, seeking others' approval and validation. we only get one chance at this. as for me, i no longer desire to live a life less than what has been designed and destined for me. i pray you all will come to that realization and go after your dreams with all you've got and strive to live a life of freedom, joy, happiness and peace.
as for my friend who is reaching the end of her rainbow, i pray her journey into the next life is a peaceful, drift into sleep. i pray her husband and family will draw from God's well and be strengthened during these very difficult times.
Be diligent in your pursuit of life's blessings Be encouraged even in the face of death. Be blessed.
this unexpected and tragic news forces me to realize just how precious life is. truly it is a gift from God and that gift should be treasured. life should be and must be lived to the fullest potential He's given. with His grace we endeavor to achieve what purpose He's designed for us. life really is too short to be wasted on petty things, seeking others' approval and validation. we only get one chance at this. as for me, i no longer desire to live a life less than what has been designed and destined for me. i pray you all will come to that realization and go after your dreams with all you've got and strive to live a life of freedom, joy, happiness and peace.
as for my friend who is reaching the end of her rainbow, i pray her journey into the next life is a peaceful, drift into sleep. i pray her husband and family will draw from God's well and be strengthened during these very difficult times.
But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies. Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?-- I Corinthians 15:51-55 (New Living Translation)
Be diligent in your pursuit of life's blessings Be encouraged even in the face of death. Be blessed.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
longing...
sir has his nose to grindstone, finishing up his first summer session at school. he's been bustin' his chops with a very steady schedule over the summer. staying on top of his game to turn his assignments in on time, study and all that great jazz. his commitment to such a schedule has really paid off as he'll be graced with a hard-earned "B+" average at the end. hats, off to you, baby!
i'm really proud of him and us. i pray that our season of cuckoo timing with work, school and everything in between will draw to a close soon. as much as i'm proud of the both of us for pursuing our dreams, i'm ready to cease the conversations that end with "i miss you and talk to you later" and turn them into "good nite, love. see you in the morning."
sigh. i NEVER in a million years thought i'd be ready for such a great risk and change. and the more i get to know him, the more ready i become. i pray he feels the same. well, it's time to turn in. good nite, all!
be patient. be blessed.
i'm really proud of him and us. i pray that our season of cuckoo timing with work, school and everything in between will draw to a close soon. as much as i'm proud of the both of us for pursuing our dreams, i'm ready to cease the conversations that end with "i miss you and talk to you later" and turn them into "good nite, love. see you in the morning."
sigh. i NEVER in a million years thought i'd be ready for such a great risk and change. and the more i get to know him, the more ready i become. i pray he feels the same. well, it's time to turn in. good nite, all!
be patient. be blessed.
Saturday, May 31, 2008
perfect evening
tonite was perfect. my youngest sister and i had a girls' nite out, complete with a movie, a play and a late night dinner. we got all dolled up and went to see sex and the city. btw, if you've not seen it GO! it's totally worth the two hours. by in large, it was absolutely wonderful! one i will definitely buy when it comes out on dvd!
the play, damn yankees, did not garner such rave reviews. actually, it stunk and we left at intermission to have dinner and girl talk. no cell phones, no texting, no boys. just us girls. all in all, it was a fabulous evening.
be blessed.
the play, damn yankees, did not garner such rave reviews. actually, it stunk and we left at intermission to have dinner and girl talk. no cell phones, no texting, no boys. just us girls. all in all, it was a fabulous evening.
be blessed.
Friday, May 30, 2008
time in a bottle
i'm throughly enjoying not staying up until the wee hours of the morning to finish a school project, take a forgotten quiz or post to a discussion area before it closes. i'm adoring the extra time i now have to devote to those started-but-never-finished home improvement projects. i have time to watch the t.v. shows i've missed (thank God for networks being smart and placing "full episode" features on their sites). i finally finished a book i borrowed from a friend almost a year ago. i have time to clean the way i want; organize my office; reconcile my checking/savings/vacation accounts; return to a regular exercise routine AND time to think... about... A LOT OF STUFF.
i've acquired so much free time i'm sometimes at a loss of what to do... ho hum.... i've never had so much time to just relax, think, breathe and pray... though this hiatus from the harried, sleep-deprived way of life is most welcome and needed, i don't know how to handle it. i don't even have a steady flow of freelance work anymore... wedding invitations here and there. but i'm not piled up like i was a few months ago. it's wonderful and scary at the same time. so, what's a girl to do? i could try planning, for upcoming events, but i really don't have anything major going on. my inner ultra planning diva is drowning! i'm not sure if i should try to save her or let her slip in to the depths of the ocean of peace.
so what am i to do with all this spare time on my hands? i could plan for events that may or may not take place in the not-so-distant future, but that only frustrates me at this point because nothing's concrete. i guess i could do what any normal, sane person would do in this situation--just enjoy the peace time. because soon life would pick back up and i'll be crying for these days of leisure. guess i better count my blessings and just relax.
be able to enjoy the quiet moments in life. be happy for the peace. be blessed.
i've acquired so much free time i'm sometimes at a loss of what to do... ho hum.... i've never had so much time to just relax, think, breathe and pray... though this hiatus from the harried, sleep-deprived way of life is most welcome and needed, i don't know how to handle it. i don't even have a steady flow of freelance work anymore... wedding invitations here and there. but i'm not piled up like i was a few months ago. it's wonderful and scary at the same time. so, what's a girl to do? i could try planning, for upcoming events, but i really don't have anything major going on. my inner ultra planning diva is drowning! i'm not sure if i should try to save her or let her slip in to the depths of the ocean of peace.
so what am i to do with all this spare time on my hands? i could plan for events that may or may not take place in the not-so-distant future, but that only frustrates me at this point because nothing's concrete. i guess i could do what any normal, sane person would do in this situation--just enjoy the peace time. because soon life would pick back up and i'll be crying for these days of leisure. guess i better count my blessings and just relax.
be able to enjoy the quiet moments in life. be happy for the peace. be blessed.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
switch out
i'm done! i've turned in my last project and taken my last exam for the semester. i've sacrificed a great deal of sleep, time, money, regular exercise and social gatherings these past three months. i'm so used to being up late almost every night, it's hard for me to go to sleep even now. i imagine it will take me a while to adjust to "having nothing to do" right when i get home from work.
this semester's been a challenge not only for me, but for my family, friends and sweetheart as well. sir has been most amazing, patient and calming during the nights i called crying, drenched with exhaustion and tears. making me laugh, telling me the end of the tunnel is near and praying with and for me. right from the beginning he's cheered me through and encouraged me all the way. he's sacrificed our precious date nights so that i could get that last bit of studying in or that project finished. and now that the semester is over i'm ready to get back into us at full speed. my nights are free again, i don't have to say "can we reschedule"or "i can't talk long because i have to study." i'm ready to get back in full swing... except now... there's a switch.
sir is now pursuing his career dream and we've reversed roles. for the summer, he will be the busy one, while i step back and give him the same courtesy he's given me to take the academic bull by the horns. now, i must take care to be as patient, kind and understanding as he's been during my semester. it's funny how i've been counting down the days to return to some sort of normalcy and more time with sir. only to find that our "normal" is school, work, work, some sleep and a few minutes here and there. then in the fall we'll both be in school, working and finding time to spend on the phone and replying to letters we write to each other.
i don't complain because the sacrifices we both make now will benefit us later down the road. we're both building for a future in which we're both happy, secure and successful in our respective career paths. i pray that i am a source of strength and inspiration for him, as he's been for me. i pray my ego suppressed and my patience is increased as we adjust to this exciting time in our lives. and while i'm enjoying and learning from this incredible experience, i pray it goes by fast like our first year together. in the meantime, i'll catch up on some home improvement projects, organizing my office and REST!
be ready for change. be versatile. be blessed.
this semester's been a challenge not only for me, but for my family, friends and sweetheart as well. sir has been most amazing, patient and calming during the nights i called crying, drenched with exhaustion and tears. making me laugh, telling me the end of the tunnel is near and praying with and for me. right from the beginning he's cheered me through and encouraged me all the way. he's sacrificed our precious date nights so that i could get that last bit of studying in or that project finished. and now that the semester is over i'm ready to get back into us at full speed. my nights are free again, i don't have to say "can we reschedule"or "i can't talk long because i have to study." i'm ready to get back in full swing... except now... there's a switch.
sir is now pursuing his career dream and we've reversed roles. for the summer, he will be the busy one, while i step back and give him the same courtesy he's given me to take the academic bull by the horns. now, i must take care to be as patient, kind and understanding as he's been during my semester. it's funny how i've been counting down the days to return to some sort of normalcy and more time with sir. only to find that our "normal" is school, work, work, some sleep and a few minutes here and there. then in the fall we'll both be in school, working and finding time to spend on the phone and replying to letters we write to each other.
i don't complain because the sacrifices we both make now will benefit us later down the road. we're both building for a future in which we're both happy, secure and successful in our respective career paths. i pray that i am a source of strength and inspiration for him, as he's been for me. i pray my ego suppressed and my patience is increased as we adjust to this exciting time in our lives. and while i'm enjoying and learning from this incredible experience, i pray it goes by fast like our first year together. in the meantime, i'll catch up on some home improvement projects, organizing my office and REST!
be ready for change. be versatile. be blessed.
Monday, May 5, 2008
calm-panic
is it normal to have sensations of peace and panic rush through you at the same time? is it normal to be so into someone and ready to take a big risk to be with them and scared as hell at the same time? am i crazy to have these thoughts and little "what ifs" still swimming in my head even though i know i'm ready to make a change? has anyone else been through or going through what i'm feeling? or am i being irrational about it all? this isn't doubt-it's something else. i can't put my finger on it... i sometimes i feel like an emotional schizophrenic and wonder if i'm actually supposed to feel this way. help me out if you're reading....
be blessed.
be blessed.
Monday, April 28, 2008
a little ray of sunshine
about a month ago i applied for a teaching position at a local community college located on the west coast. the job seemed a perfect fit and i was really excited about it all. i got a call back last week to set an appointment for today. 3:15 pacific time/6:15 my time. i asked the hr person if there was anything i needed to know or do to prepare for the 30-min, six-question interview. she said "no," but to call if i had questions...
well, i emailed a good friend who's a professor and asked him for potential questions. got some good ones, reviewed my resume and application and the school's mission statement. i was prepared (probably over-prepared) or so i thought.
well, i had the interview and it went rather strange and i have no idea what they thought of me. they called 15 minutes late, with no apologies. the chairperson of the committee then told me that the interview would only be 15mins instead of a half hour. there were 10 people that introduced themselves to me, but some of the names were muffled since i was on speaker phone. the feeling was a little cold and stand-offish. i tried to loosen up a little with chatter, but because they were behind schedule the session was rushed. they didn't even say goodbye before they hung up. just silence. all in all, it was not a good experience and i didn't get a good vibe.
but before i could i slip into a funk about the whole situation, almost immediately after i hung up from the strange interview experience i received a call from a former co-worker and good friend. i didn't recognize her number so i didn't answer. but her message was to offer up accolades and compliments on a wedding invitation i designed for a mutual friend. she was bubbling with praises and adoration. it was a lovely confidence booster. a little ray of sunshine sprinkled on my cloudy, gloomy encounter.
so, i'm just chucking up the unpleasant experience to just that. and where i would normally mull over the details and lose sleep over this, i don't have the time. i'm moving on because i have two major projects that i have to complete before the end of the semester (two more weeks, 'til summer!). and if i don't proceed to the next round of interviews, it not detrimental to my career. especially since i've gotten clarity on the responsibilities of the position and how that will affect my goal of obtaining my master's. because truth of the matter is i'm still in a very good place right now and there will always be other opportunities and reminders that i'm appreciated.
be mindful that any gloomy situation is opportunity for a learning experience. be blessed.
well, i emailed a good friend who's a professor and asked him for potential questions. got some good ones, reviewed my resume and application and the school's mission statement. i was prepared (probably over-prepared) or so i thought.
well, i had the interview and it went rather strange and i have no idea what they thought of me. they called 15 minutes late, with no apologies. the chairperson of the committee then told me that the interview would only be 15mins instead of a half hour. there were 10 people that introduced themselves to me, but some of the names were muffled since i was on speaker phone. the feeling was a little cold and stand-offish. i tried to loosen up a little with chatter, but because they were behind schedule the session was rushed. they didn't even say goodbye before they hung up. just silence. all in all, it was not a good experience and i didn't get a good vibe.
but before i could i slip into a funk about the whole situation, almost immediately after i hung up from the strange interview experience i received a call from a former co-worker and good friend. i didn't recognize her number so i didn't answer. but her message was to offer up accolades and compliments on a wedding invitation i designed for a mutual friend. she was bubbling with praises and adoration. it was a lovely confidence booster. a little ray of sunshine sprinkled on my cloudy, gloomy encounter.
so, i'm just chucking up the unpleasant experience to just that. and where i would normally mull over the details and lose sleep over this, i don't have the time. i'm moving on because i have two major projects that i have to complete before the end of the semester (two more weeks, 'til summer!). and if i don't proceed to the next round of interviews, it not detrimental to my career. especially since i've gotten clarity on the responsibilities of the position and how that will affect my goal of obtaining my master's. because truth of the matter is i'm still in a very good place right now and there will always be other opportunities and reminders that i'm appreciated.
be mindful that any gloomy situation is opportunity for a learning experience. be blessed.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
write me back
months ago (last year as a matter of fact) during our sunday school class (becoming a woman of freedom) we were to write a letter to our future-selves. the teacher gave us a sheet of stationary, an envelope and a pen. we were to write a declaration of freedom and peace to ourselves. we would then put the letter in the envelope, address it, seal it and give it to her. she would then, sometime in the future when we've all totally forgotten about it, mail it and we would be reminded of our declarations, promises and prayers . so, i wrote, i sealed and i forgot. until monday:
dear drenie,
God has granted you so many blessings last year. He's allowed you to be accepted to graduate school, earn respect on your job and at home and given you the desires of your heart–sir. in 2007 you were able to learn how to say no and be fine with it. you've begun to develop a closer walk with Christ by spending more time reading His word and prayer. in 2008, i want you to expect more, trust more and develop your faith more. i expect to have a better handle on my finances and management of time. develop more patience and just become closer to taking care of yourself.
love,
drenie
well, it is 2008 and how have i fared? graduate school is tough, but going very well. respect at home and at work is still very good, if not better. i've successfully managed to pay off another credit card (one more to go). as far as time management goes, it's still a work in progress. and taking better care of myself is a journey i have to take one step at a time. i'm praying more, but not to the level i'd like to be at. but it's more than what i've been doing in the past so that's a plus. all in all, things are good, but they can always be better. so thank you, past drenie, for writing that letter of expectation. i think i'll write another future e-mail to myself and send it six months from now and see where i'm at.
be blessed.
be blessed.
Friday, March 28, 2008
well, hello
long time, so speak
my it's been a while since a good post hasn't it? almost a month to be exact. well, school has taken up most of my free time and overshadowed any resemblance of a life outside the four walls of my home office. i've been squeezing in some r&r and fun here and there where i can, but getting those projects done and reading started are always at the forefront of my mind. so it's not like i'm really on a "break" from school. but don't get me wrong. i'm really enjoying the classes, hard work and all. it's paying off, too. so far i'm sporting a lovely B average in both classes!
family ties
family is doing well. baby girl (youngest sister) is leaving my nest and starting her own bachelorette pad! so i'll have an almost empty house again. just me and hairstylist sister. although she will be relocating soon to greener hair-do pastures. then there'll be just one–me. as i intended initially when i bought my home almost a year and a half ago. the family scope continues to evolve growing nephews and niece and everyone carving out their own lives. all is good there.
housework
and now i have FOUR home improvement projects that need finishing. the steps, adding shoe molding to the upstairs hall, finishing my bathroom and NOW i have to search for affordable flooring solutions. i wanted a "trading spaces" home and that i have! it's still a pretty neat place though.
sir & me
ah, well. what can i say? we're doing ok. just came back from a four-day trip out where he lives. it was nice. it's pretty where he lives. however, the return home and readjusting to the long-distance life seems to be a bit challenging this time around. something shifted in our relationship. we're more serious (not that we weren't before) and the distance apart, i believe, is making a deeper impact than i'm willing to admit. it seems now more than ever, i'm more acutely aware of every aspect of our relationship. i seem to be more in tune with what it is i'm willing to tolerate and what i cannot compromise on.
there are some things i will pass for my idiosyncrasies and need for perfection. others are genuine concerns, desires and wants for our relationship. as we grow closer to each other, the need to take a long, hard look at which direction to take increases. i guess this is true of any committed relationship. i'm praying for a clearer direction and guidance on the choices that lay before us. i believe sir is doing the same.
be sure of what you want. be willing to make the necessary change. be blessed.
my it's been a while since a good post hasn't it? almost a month to be exact. well, school has taken up most of my free time and overshadowed any resemblance of a life outside the four walls of my home office. i've been squeezing in some r&r and fun here and there where i can, but getting those projects done and reading started are always at the forefront of my mind. so it's not like i'm really on a "break" from school. but don't get me wrong. i'm really enjoying the classes, hard work and all. it's paying off, too. so far i'm sporting a lovely B average in both classes!
family ties
family is doing well. baby girl (youngest sister) is leaving my nest and starting her own bachelorette pad! so i'll have an almost empty house again. just me and hairstylist sister. although she will be relocating soon to greener hair-do pastures. then there'll be just one–me. as i intended initially when i bought my home almost a year and a half ago. the family scope continues to evolve growing nephews and niece and everyone carving out their own lives. all is good there.
housework
and now i have FOUR home improvement projects that need finishing. the steps, adding shoe molding to the upstairs hall, finishing my bathroom and NOW i have to search for affordable flooring solutions. i wanted a "trading spaces" home and that i have! it's still a pretty neat place though.
sir & me
ah, well. what can i say? we're doing ok. just came back from a four-day trip out where he lives. it was nice. it's pretty where he lives. however, the return home and readjusting to the long-distance life seems to be a bit challenging this time around. something shifted in our relationship. we're more serious (not that we weren't before) and the distance apart, i believe, is making a deeper impact than i'm willing to admit. it seems now more than ever, i'm more acutely aware of every aspect of our relationship. i seem to be more in tune with what it is i'm willing to tolerate and what i cannot compromise on.
there are some things i will pass for my idiosyncrasies and need for perfection. others are genuine concerns, desires and wants for our relationship. as we grow closer to each other, the need to take a long, hard look at which direction to take increases. i guess this is true of any committed relationship. i'm praying for a clearer direction and guidance on the choices that lay before us. i believe sir is doing the same.
be sure of what you want. be willing to make the necessary change. be blessed.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
right now
right now, all i want is to finish my graduate program, be with sir and finally just REST. all of which seems to be so far away right now...
that's all.
be blessed.
that's all.
be blessed.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
some things wicked this way come... 100th post!
what better way to celebrate this 100th post than with talking about some strange happenings:
strange incident #1: this has been going on for quite some time, actually. someone's been receiving a plethora of credit card offers and other junk mail statements at my address. no, it's not the previous owner of this house. her name is not AUNDREA E. MACK. since you're bold enough to use my personal home address as yours, i'm not ashamed to name you on my post. i don't know who this being who's possibly using my address as hers to fraudulently use to gain some small measure of credit or throw someone off her trail, but be warned. AUNDREA E. MACK, i'm tired of receiving your mail. my cousin is a postal inspector for the us government. you've kicked the wrong ant pile. your days of using my address are drawing to an end.
strange incident #2: i'm reclining on the sofa, enjoying the melodious view of brad pitt and george clooney in ocean's thirteen (it's good if you haven't seen it), i hear a loud knock at my front door. THEN i notice blue flashing lights... it's the police. i open the door and greet the officer. he says that he was responding to a 911 from my home. i'm looking puzzled and a little embarrassed as i'm in my scroungy robe and hair wrapped up in a scarf. i told him that no one's placed any call of that nature from my home. now he's confused and asked if me if i have a house phone. yes. i use it for stinky DSL internet service, but no one uses it. i have the ringer turned off because of telemarketers. we use our cell phones. he asks if he can come in and look around. i guess to make sure that no one's standing behind the door, forcing me to lie. he comes in, checks out the house. with a puzzled look (the both of us), he apologizes for the interruption and goes about his way. i'm puzzled by all this, but not alarmed. our local phone company has sucked as of late since at&t took over.
strange incident #3: one late saturday evening, while lying in bed on the phone, i hear a loud noise, voices and a car drive off. since there is always noise coming from my street, i really don't pay it any attention. the next afternoon while pulling into my driveway, i notice something is a little off with my yard. my mailbox and the post it sits on is MISSING. yep. gone. i ask the neighbors if they've seen or heard anything... nope. one neighbor send me away with a plate of cookies and chocolate cake (that's a strange, kooky event in and of itself), but not before she asks if her mailbox is still posted. i call the local authorities to file a report. but really, there's nothing they can do without catching the person in the act of stealing. at this point, i'm bothered because now my as well as the sisters' personal information is at risk. and for the life of me, i can't remember if i checked the mail the day before. i call up my dad, who is my own personal superhero, who has an extra mailbox and post in his back yard. i don't why... that's dad. anyway he's instructed me to get some cement so we can make sure the replacement is secure, making it hard for the bandits to repeat the crime. luckily, mail doesn't run on martin luther king jr. day, so i don't have to worry about missed mail. the next day i pick up the cement. i'm working on my bathroom project when my "cookie" neighbor knocks on my door. she then tells me that my mailbox is in her back yard. either the bandits threw it back there that same night, or they brought it back sunday night and threw it in her yard. strange.
strange incident #4 (and incident #4a): i get my phone bill today. it's almost $250! it should only be $70. someone made three way calls and over 80 directory assistance calls from my number. now since we all use our cell phones for calls, this strikes me as strange. i'm also at the moment extremely pissed because the phone company says that the charge will not come off my bill for two months. i refuse to pay these erroneous charges and as a result, my service may get cut off. argh!!!!!!! i'm not satisfied with the company's response and so now we'll be going in circles over this. in that same vein, my electric bill jumped up to almost $300! i'm requesting my meter be checked because even with the "snow" we received, it should not make my usage spike up that much.
with all these strange happenings, i'm now prompted to pull my credit report (which i need to do anyway) and make sure there's nothing wicked going on in that department. i also need to pay closer attention to my surroundings. and add security lighting and a system to my home. i'm not at panicked stage yet, but i'm highly agitated, which cannot spell a good outcome for MS. MACK, the phone and electric companies. stay tuned... i'm sure this will have an interesting turn out...
be more aware of your surroundings. be blessed.
strange incident #1: this has been going on for quite some time, actually. someone's been receiving a plethora of credit card offers and other junk mail statements at my address. no, it's not the previous owner of this house. her name is not AUNDREA E. MACK. since you're bold enough to use my personal home address as yours, i'm not ashamed to name you on my post. i don't know who this being who's possibly using my address as hers to fraudulently use to gain some small measure of credit or throw someone off her trail, but be warned. AUNDREA E. MACK, i'm tired of receiving your mail. my cousin is a postal inspector for the us government. you've kicked the wrong ant pile. your days of using my address are drawing to an end.
strange incident #2: i'm reclining on the sofa, enjoying the melodious view of brad pitt and george clooney in ocean's thirteen (it's good if you haven't seen it), i hear a loud knock at my front door. THEN i notice blue flashing lights... it's the police. i open the door and greet the officer. he says that he was responding to a 911 from my home. i'm looking puzzled and a little embarrassed as i'm in my scroungy robe and hair wrapped up in a scarf. i told him that no one's placed any call of that nature from my home. now he's confused and asked if me if i have a house phone. yes. i use it for stinky DSL internet service, but no one uses it. i have the ringer turned off because of telemarketers. we use our cell phones. he asks if he can come in and look around. i guess to make sure that no one's standing behind the door, forcing me to lie. he comes in, checks out the house. with a puzzled look (the both of us), he apologizes for the interruption and goes about his way. i'm puzzled by all this, but not alarmed. our local phone company has sucked as of late since at&t took over.
strange incident #3: one late saturday evening, while lying in bed on the phone, i hear a loud noise, voices and a car drive off. since there is always noise coming from my street, i really don't pay it any attention. the next afternoon while pulling into my driveway, i notice something is a little off with my yard. my mailbox and the post it sits on is MISSING. yep. gone. i ask the neighbors if they've seen or heard anything... nope. one neighbor send me away with a plate of cookies and chocolate cake (that's a strange, kooky event in and of itself), but not before she asks if her mailbox is still posted. i call the local authorities to file a report. but really, there's nothing they can do without catching the person in the act of stealing. at this point, i'm bothered because now my as well as the sisters' personal information is at risk. and for the life of me, i can't remember if i checked the mail the day before. i call up my dad, who is my own personal superhero, who has an extra mailbox and post in his back yard. i don't why... that's dad. anyway he's instructed me to get some cement so we can make sure the replacement is secure, making it hard for the bandits to repeat the crime. luckily, mail doesn't run on martin luther king jr. day, so i don't have to worry about missed mail. the next day i pick up the cement. i'm working on my bathroom project when my "cookie" neighbor knocks on my door. she then tells me that my mailbox is in her back yard. either the bandits threw it back there that same night, or they brought it back sunday night and threw it in her yard. strange.
strange incident #4 (and incident #4a): i get my phone bill today. it's almost $250! it should only be $70. someone made three way calls and over 80 directory assistance calls from my number. now since we all use our cell phones for calls, this strikes me as strange. i'm also at the moment extremely pissed because the phone company says that the charge will not come off my bill for two months. i refuse to pay these erroneous charges and as a result, my service may get cut off. argh!!!!!!! i'm not satisfied with the company's response and so now we'll be going in circles over this. in that same vein, my electric bill jumped up to almost $300! i'm requesting my meter be checked because even with the "snow" we received, it should not make my usage spike up that much.
with all these strange happenings, i'm now prompted to pull my credit report (which i need to do anyway) and make sure there's nothing wicked going on in that department. i also need to pay closer attention to my surroundings. and add security lighting and a system to my home. i'm not at panicked stage yet, but i'm highly agitated, which cannot spell a good outcome for MS. MACK, the phone and electric companies. stay tuned... i'm sure this will have an interesting turn out...
be more aware of your surroundings. be blessed.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
just some stuff to say
well, this past monday kicked off my second semester in school! needless to say, i got off to a rather bumpy start with interruptions, delayed book orders and a cranky computer. i have no idea why the computer is cranky. it's brand new. hopefully she will behave herself, as i've got much to do this semester. i'm back in full swing with two classes! for some reason, it seems a little easier this time around. the workload requires time equivalent to that of a part-time job, but so far i'm getting into a groove.
i'm actually enjoying the classes this time around. right out the gate, these classes are challenging my creative brain and its ability to really think outside the box for the best possible solutions. i believe this semester is going to be a much better one. with less stress from work, family, freelance and such, i should be able to ride through with minor detractors. of course, i've only just completed the first week, so i'll give an update at mid-term. prayerfully, i'll be even more enthusiastic about my program!
with being in school, working, trying to manage personal/professional relationships, and extracurricular activities, i'm also learning how to say "no" and make more time for myself. i haven't been able to do that in such a long time–just spend quality time alone. i haven't taken a real vacation or trip anywhere in a long while. my spring break is coming up in march (before easter), so i may plan a short trip somewhere. maybe go to that place we took my dad for his birthday (if i can afford it on my own). maybe i'll go back to denver. i didn't get to enjoy the city as much as i liked when i visited last year. the possibilities are endless.
there is a personal matter that i'm seeking God's wisdom and guidance on, too. i'm praying that i get the direction i need to approach/resolve it. i will say that i'm glad that i am not who i used to be a few years back. and that i'm glad that i know who i am—more importantly, i like and love who i am. i know... that was such a vague statement. i have to be for now.
well, i'd better get on with it. i have two projects and a proposal that i have to turn in by mid-next week. hopefully life will be a little kind to me and let me work my work.
be passionate. be satisfied with who you are. be blessed!
i'm actually enjoying the classes this time around. right out the gate, these classes are challenging my creative brain and its ability to really think outside the box for the best possible solutions. i believe this semester is going to be a much better one. with less stress from work, family, freelance and such, i should be able to ride through with minor detractors. of course, i've only just completed the first week, so i'll give an update at mid-term. prayerfully, i'll be even more enthusiastic about my program!
with being in school, working, trying to manage personal/professional relationships, and extracurricular activities, i'm also learning how to say "no" and make more time for myself. i haven't been able to do that in such a long time–just spend quality time alone. i haven't taken a real vacation or trip anywhere in a long while. my spring break is coming up in march (before easter), so i may plan a short trip somewhere. maybe go to that place we took my dad for his birthday (if i can afford it on my own). maybe i'll go back to denver. i didn't get to enjoy the city as much as i liked when i visited last year. the possibilities are endless.
there is a personal matter that i'm seeking God's wisdom and guidance on, too. i'm praying that i get the direction i need to approach/resolve it. i will say that i'm glad that i am not who i used to be a few years back. and that i'm glad that i know who i am—more importantly, i like and love who i am. i know... that was such a vague statement. i have to be for now.
well, i'd better get on with it. i have two projects and a proposal that i have to turn in by mid-next week. hopefully life will be a little kind to me and let me work my work.
be passionate. be satisfied with who you are. be blessed!
Friday, February 1, 2008
the latest blessing
welcome to the world!
my little niece (aka princess)
born thursday, january 31, 9:39 p.m.
seven pounds, three ounces
Friday, January 4, 2008
great in two thousand eight
happy new year! sorry for the cheesy title. with all the new year slogans floating around, i thought i'd throw my hat into the ring and create my own mantra for the new year.
i know a lot of people feel compelled to make a lengthy list of resolutions that they may or may not keep this year. i've never been one to make such lists. instead, i just simply thank Him for all i've experienced.
truly two thousand and seven has been a very interesting, awesome year for me. as i reflect over the past year, i can truly say that God's been awesome in His abounding grace and love for me and my loved ones. i experienced a great number of blessings and set backs. nevertheless, i am eternally grateful for all He's blessed me with. i'm just awestruck by how much i've grown spiritually and emotionally. some things that i've prayed for a very long time are now coming to pass. and it's just amazing to see and experience it. i am elated and excited and am looking forward to what He's laying before me this year.
be grateful. be humble. be blessed.
i know a lot of people feel compelled to make a lengthy list of resolutions that they may or may not keep this year. i've never been one to make such lists. instead, i just simply thank Him for all i've experienced.
truly two thousand and seven has been a very interesting, awesome year for me. as i reflect over the past year, i can truly say that God's been awesome in His abounding grace and love for me and my loved ones. i experienced a great number of blessings and set backs. nevertheless, i am eternally grateful for all He's blessed me with. i'm just awestruck by how much i've grown spiritually and emotionally. some things that i've prayed for a very long time are now coming to pass. and it's just amazing to see and experience it. i am elated and excited and am looking forward to what He's laying before me this year.
be grateful. be humble. be blessed.
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