One of the great things about this summer has been all the different friends I have been able to spend time with. It seems like it has been parties, showers, and get-togethers galore. Because I will be gone on the day of Deb's shower, Jer and I went out and spent time with her last night in Hanford. She is so CUTE! I can't wait to meet the girls, yes girlS(!), and the other new baby additions to the ADX family such as Mandy's new baby boy, Virginia's new baby boy, and Leanna's new baby boy, whom I still have yet to meet!

I leave for the cruise tomorrow morning and do not get back until August 5. I heard that internet is not free (and somewhat pricey) on the cruise so you probably won't be hearing from me via the blog-world until I am back in Kingsburg. I'm sure I will have lots of fun stories to tell you when I return!

I am stealing no, borrowing, this blog insert from a male Christian friend I know from the EC. I was blown away with what he wrote and it really inspired me about the very special role women/mothers can have in the lives of others. Apparently he was impacted by it as well. If only I can be half of what these ladies are... Thanks K for sharing!

"The Hottest Girls to have ever lived on Earth." (Hot because she belongs to God.)

--Elisabeth Elliot--

If you have never heard of her, check out the End of the Spear movie and documentary. Here is a fine women of God. She supported her husband and family in Ecuador while ministering to the Waodani tribe. When her husband was killed by the Waodani, she continued on the same mission with her friends and family. She denied all material wealth and (with her children) lived with the Waodani tribe while curing them of polio. She continued as a missionary there.

--Susanna Wesley--

Examine the way she brought up her children i.e. “ …although she never preached a sermon or published a book or founded a church, she is known as the Mother of Methodism. Why? Because two of her sons, John Wesley and Charles Wesley, as children consciously or unconsciously will, applied the example and teachings and circumstances of their home life.” (Pellowe) She had 10 children, all who learned Greek, Latin, and Hebrew before the age of 10. She met with each of her children twice a week for an hour to examine their spiritual lives. The Methodist revival was a result of one of the most perfect images of parenting available.

--Sarah Edwards--

The wife of Jonathon Edwards; together created one of the best examples of what Christian marriage should look like. He chose her because of her spiritual enthusiasm and "nun-like" love for God. She was a spiritual influence on Edwards his whole life.

--Susan Fitkin--

Early Nazarene who answered God's call to "preach full salvation to every creature." She worked as an evangelist with her husband for many years before receiving ordination. After the death of her husband, she began many foreign missions to Swaziland, Mexico, Barbados, Trinidad, Hawaii, Panama, Central America, Japan, China, Korea, and Argentina. She is now considered the mother of Nazarene missions.

Alena's Party
My friend (from high school) Alena turned 30 and had a dinner party at Sal's in Fresno. I didn't know that they had a patio area (which made for a great and cozy location) and we had a very nice time celebrating with her. Janell came as well and we took a couple of cute pictures.

Here we are in high school...I guess we are friends for life!! :-)

Jerelyn's Party
Jerelyn turned 31 last week and last night we had a birthday dinner for her at BJ's in Fresno. It was fun and I hope she had a blast. She got a free pizzookie so that alone is worth turning 31. Here are some pics...

My Party
My 30th birthday is right around the corner. Because I am feeling depressed about it already (seriously, already cried about it a couple of times) I thought the best thing to do would be face it with all my loved ones. If I have to face 30 I want to face it with as many family and friends as possible. Therefore - please save the date of Sept. 6. I am planning on having a lunch party at the Golf Course in Kingsburg. Invitations to follow... Also, if you have any suggestions on how to feel better about turning 30 please pass them along!!
Deborah's Party
My friend Deborah (ADX sister) is having twin baby girls and Jer and I made the cutest gift for her (Jen and Kristin helped contribute too). It is a "diaper cake." Jer had the idea and it is something I will definitely make and give again. We were so proud of ourselves about being creative!! Two other sisters are also expecting and we are in the works of gifts for them too!:-)

Ikea
A couple of weeks ago Jerelyn and I went to the Bay Area for the day. We went to Ikea and visited Jerelyn's friend, Brad, in Alameda. Jerelyn said my thoughts (exactly!) aloud when she said, "I love me-a some Ikea!" (Or something along those lines.:-)) I got some great stuff and want to go back when they get their holiday/seasonal merchandise in. The weather was great and walking by the water made our time even better.

Cruise...oh yeah!
I leave for my family's 11-day-cruise to B.C. and Alaska on Saturday. I cannot wait! I have a lot to get done this week in preparation and I am trying not to stress out. I have been cleaning my house in sections so Julie won't be staying in filth. (Yes, I did find a house sitter. Thanks, Julie!!) I also need to wash clothes and pack. I need to go buy cat food and a new collar with tag (who knows where he left his other one - came home w/o it) so Jersey will be taken care of. I have to go grocery shopping for Julie. I have to make sure all my work is done and my office is clean and organized for the social worker covering for me. I know that I will sigh a big sigh of relief on Saturday morning when I am headed towards a week-and-a-half of relaxation and adventure. I have never been on a cruise before!!
Shots = done!
I finished my 10 weeks of shots (3 shots a week) at the clinic for weight loss. I am now on my own. I am so glad to be done. While I probably would have done a new cycle had I had the money, my arms are so glad not to be poked anymore (I had constant bruises). So far I have lost close to 30 pounds and I am hoping to not gain any on the cruise (will be watching most of what I eat and still planning on walking a bunch each day) and get back to dropping pounds when I get back.
Work
Last Monday I get a call at 10:30 PM telling me that a foster kid had run away. This kid was also on probation. Long story short I had to go meet with a sheriff at 12:30 AM in Traver to make a report (was told it had to be done in person) and spent the rest of the night on the phone with different people and awaiting any word. To this day he has not been found. We do now know that the person he took off with was probably his girlfriend. There is now a warrant out for his arrest. That kid was just offered a job (full-time with benefits) at a local school as a janitor and was almost done with probation. He also had recently become a Believer and was one of the most easy going kids I had met. I would have never thought he would make such a poor decision. Please pray that D will come to his senses and make good decisions and turn himself in.

Ummm...

OK, for those of you who are semi-regular readers of my blog you probably know that I am a Conservative when it comes to politics. Does that mean I agree with everything from the Right? No. Do I agree with everything from the Religious Right - even if I am a Republican who also is a Christian? No. (I would even say I vote based on my convictions rather then my party). While I do know that I will be voting for the Republican choice in this election - does it mean I think Senator McCain is a great fit for the presidency? Not necessarily. I will be the first to admit that both candidates have great - and not so great - things about them. In any case, here are two articles that kind of made me feel uneasy. The first was posted in a blog that I copied - therefore I cannot vouch for its authenticity and I am too lazy to research it. The second is a copy from an email I got today from the GOP so it is from a legit source - whether you choose to agree with the mission of the GOP or not.

Obama Explains National Anthem Stance On Sat, 22 Mar 2008 18:48:04 -0400
'LT.Bill Ginn' USAF ret forwarded:
Hot on the heels of his explanation for why he no longer wears a flag pin, presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama was forced to explain why he doesn't follow protocol when the National Anthem is played. According to the United States Code, Title 36, Chapter 10, Sec. 171: During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform are expected to stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. "As I've said about the flag pin, I don't want to be perceived as taking sides," Obama said. "There are a lot of people in the world to whom the American flag is a symbol of oppression. And the anthem itself conveys a war like message. You know, the bombs bursting in air and all. It should be swapped for something less parochial and less bellicose. I like the song I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing. If that were our anthem, then I might salute it."

And: http://www.gopusa.com/theloft/?p=739

Ummmmm.......WHAT?!

Thoughts? Please be respectful to me and both parties in your comments. Do I think that singing the National Anthem and encouraging others to speak Spanish will affect one's ability to rule the country in a certain way? No. But does it tell us more about the character of this man? (And as stated before - both def have issues...as we all do I guess.)

This morning on our usual walk Monica, Janell, and I got onto the subject of funny things we believed as a kid. Janell and Monica shared some funny stories (that I won't share here just because I don't have their permission although I'm sure they wouldn't mind) and when I got home I continued to remember silly things I totally believed when I was little. A couple of those were that the world was black and white (just like the TV shows) but then someone invented color so the world had color and the tv shows were now able to be in color...and that little people (like leprechaun type people) sat in the sensor boxes above doors (that open for you when you walk in buildings) and controlled opening and closing them for people as they entered and exited the stores. I am sitting here laughing also remembering some explanations my parents told me when I was little that I totally bought such as the explanation for homosexuality, etc. Anyway, leave me a comment and tell me some of the bizarre things you believed as a kid.:-) Happy Monday!

I hope you all had a great 4th of July! My day was nice. I slept in a bit and did my typical morning walk with Janell and Monica. I then went to the outlets and Super Target with my mom in Tulare. I came home from that and took a nap (I never get those anymore and it was glorious!) and then went over to my parents' house and baked a sugar-free cake. We then enjoyed a BBQ and fireworks with extended family. The weather was perfect last night, too. This morning I slept in until 9:30 AM (I slept so hard last night - I think I woke up in the same position I fell asleep in) and now I am sitting here (still in my pjs) getting little things done that I have been meaning to do - like post on my blog and send pics from my camera to friends like I promised days (or weeks) ago. Anyway, some of this pics were too fun not to post here. Enjoy - and have a great weekend!:-)

Some pics from June 08

Jersey doing what he does best...sleeping on furniture he is not allowed on!

My dad sent me these beautiful flowers at work. I think they are tiger lilies. They are SO PRETTY! He is very thoughtful. Can you spot JK (Jersey Kitty) in the first pic? I didn't realize he had "snuck" into the shot until I uploaded the pics.

Jerelyn July 08

I was able to go with Jerelyn to pick up her wedding gown. I saw it in person too and she is going to make a beautiful bride! We went to Uno's before David's for dinner - YUM!

Some family pics July 08

Here are some silly pics of my niece (and her papa) at Mimi and Papa's house. One thing she loves to do is go through my purse and play with whatever is in there. As you can see she found my reading glasses - funny girl!

NYC Trip Pics from Memorial Day Weekend

I was trying to explain to my mom how they park cars in NYC (they also do have parking garages but obviously space is limited so this is how they do it in small spots). Crazy, huh?

Hannah and I at...I can't remember the name...Daily News? Anyway, this globe has been in several movies, one of them being Superman. It was very cool! The guy taking this pic for us was sooo excited to be in this building, he was telling us all kinds of interesting facts. ( BTW I can't fit into these pants anymore - they are too big! As of my weigh in last Wed I am down 23.75 pounds!)

Cupcakes from Magnolia Bakery. They were the best cupcakes EVER! I think I have a new tradition for NYC!

Soooo fun to be on the EC once again - in the greatest city in the world!!

Here is Hannah with our favorite dish at our favorite NYC restaurant - Treccolori Tratorria.

Need TWO housesitters (will pay) PLEASE!!!

Hi Friends,
I am going on a cruise with my family July 26-August 5 to Alaska. My brother and SIL need a housesitter to stay with their indoor/outdoor chocolate lab and I need a housesitter to stay with my indoor/outdoor kitten. Basically we just need someone to stay the night and spend some time with our pets each day. It would be super nice if the dog is walked as well as she loves those times outside. Both houses have an alarm system so you will be totally safe...you will have access to a pool and will have a whole house to yourself and will be paid for your time. Please let me know if you are interested. All we ask is that you be an adult, responsible, and like pets.
Thanks, ashley :-)

I discovered a wonderful site called Shutterfly. It is so much fun - but be careful because it is addicting! I made three scrapbooks - each for a year while I was back East. My first two arrive in the mail today. I can't wait to see the finished product. It is very easy and a great way to organize and display your memories. Check it out! It does have the option to post them online and I thought about doing that so I could show you my work that I am so excited about - but I decided against it because it does have people in it who are minors or friends who may not want their pics on the website. Hopefully you can see the albums someday in person.

It was 110 on Saturday - hot hot hot!!!

I hope you all are planning on cheering for Fresno State today! My boss has allowed us to put it on even though it starts at 4. While I will have to listen to it on my radio - I am still just as excited about it all. What a great "cinderella" story!

Some of you have asked how I am doing on my summer project of getting fit. As of my last weigh in on Wednesday I am down 17.75 pounds. I am in my seventh week. I am really excited about this new stage and process. I am impatient but I am hanging in there and will definitely not give up. I feel good knowing that I am making a positive change in my life, even though it is really hard!

I don't think I mentioned on here that my neighbors saw me naked. I don't know their names, but it is the family that owns Tom's Donuts. And, I was totally in my house having just gotten out of my shower and I spotted them looking through their fence into my house - and they didn't even move when I spotted them. I haven't gone to their donut shop since - which granted is a good thing since I can't eat junk food. But dang how I do enjoy their apple fritters!!

I was asked to be a part of another wedding and I am excited to help out! This time around I am the guest book attendant. I haven't done that job since I was in high school..but don't worry Cindy I am sure my skills have improved.:-)

The Young Life group came home from camp at Malibu on Saturday. I can't wait to hear all about it.

Work has been very slow lately...I hope it picks up soon. The following is a link to a show that had my boss on to talk about our agency. It is definitely cheesy low budget local TV quality - but it is informative and if you are at all interested please take some time to watch. I am the social worker for the foster/adoptive parents they interview - The Rodriguez family. If the link doesn't work look for the June 6th show featuring Valley Teen Ranch CEO Connie Clendenan.

http://www.hspees.com/show_archive.php

People are really desperate around here (as I am sure they are in your neck of the woods as well) for money or things they can sell for money. My office is in a building that we share with three other offices. (VTR owns the building and rents out the other two offices). We have five AC units on top of the building. Last week when we went to turn on the AC we noticed that it was blowing hot air. The next day when we tried again it was the same thing - hot air. We called the AC company and had them come out to check what was going on. When the guy came down from the ladder he told us that we needed to call the police - we had been robbed. Apparently someone came and stole the copper wiring out of 5 of the 6 units. Why they didn't take from the sixth unit we don't know - maybe they got spooked or something. In any case our units need to be completely replaced and in the meantime we are using fans and trying to stay cool in our offices. Luckily it hasn't been that hot so it hasn't been too much of a problem. When the police came out to write a report they told us that crimes like these are on a rapid rise. They said with the economy the way it is people are very desperate to get money or things for free. He told us that people stealing gas out of other people's cars is also drastically increasing. When will we get out of this recession? If I am struggling I really feel for the folks who are single parents or aren't working, etc. With gas being so expensive I have been thinking about selling my car. Unfortunately SUV's sales have plummeted and I would lose a couple thousand dollars if I sold. Ugh. And I am having difficulty making ends meet even more then before. On Sunday I bought my groceries (as usual) and grabbed five apples. When I went to check out I noticed the price was about a buck an apple. It is my fault for not looking at the price beforehand when I grabbed some... I bought gas yesterday for $4.60/gallon. I wonder if my boss will let me do four 10 hour days instead of five 8 hour days? I dunno. What are some things you are doing to help save money in these hard times? Or am I the only one struggling?

I have developed a routine over the last three weeks or so that I am enjoying and is really helping me stay with my new "get fit" plan. I have been walking three miles with Janell every morning before work from 5:45 - 6:45 AM. Then I go to Fresno and work and get back to Kingsburg around 5:45 PM. I try to be at my parents' house by 6:30 and eat with them and then walk another two miles with my mom, SIL, and niece. I try to be back home (with errands and odds and ends around the house done) and in bed by 9:30. It has been hard trying to get my body to be tired by 9:30 PM. I am a night owl and before I started walking in the morning I tried to be in bed by 10:30 which was a challenge enough in itself. But, I am a person who definitely needs her sleep and I try to be in bed for eight hours - asleep or not. My schedule doesn't really allow for me to do anything social or "fun" during the weekdays - but I do enjoy the social time that I get while I walk and it just makes me look forward to the weekends all the more.:-)

Last Saturday I went to see "You don't mess with the Zohan." We walked out about 45 mins into the movie. DO NOT GO SEE THIS MOVIE. The fact that it is a PG-13 is ridiculous. This movie is disgusting. For example: he becomes a popular hairstylist because he gives each customer something a little extra in the back room after each styling...if you catch what I mean. Adam Sandler is a funny guy - why does he have to resort to such things? Anyway, do not even rent it. Obviously as a Christian I find this movie even more revolting then maybe the average viewer - although I have heard through the grapevine that many have been shocked by the content. It turns my stomach to think of how many kids will be seeing that movie...:-(

Today I am having lunch with Liz (Christenson) Sanchez. I am excited to see her and meet her new son. We have been friends since jr. high and that girl is so darn funny!!! I love her and wish I could see her more often.

On Sunday my pastor spoke on fear and what it means in regards to fearing the Lord. He referenced Proverbs and several other passages that referenced how people feared the Lord and what God wants when He instructs us to fear him. Obviously it is not a run and hide type of thing - but rather a reverence for His holiness, obedience, respect and admiration (not being foolish), and love. Do I fear the Lord? Sure I do. At all time? Not quite!! When people interact with me do they walk away with the impression that I am one who fears her God? I'm sure not nearly as much as I would like them to. Anyway, it was a great sermon and I have been pondering my life and wondering what I can do differently to better fear God - and thus loving Him and others more. One I know for sure is continue to get fit - which is my project for the summer. I am being obedient to Him by doing this. (Some might be disobedient to the Lord with their bodies, as I have been, some in other areas, it is different for everyone.) What I'm saying is that disrespecting what God has given me (my body - His temple) is sin, overeating is sin, using food for anything other then fuel and nutrition (what He intended it to be) is sin, and that I use it as an excuse to not relate to people as well as I should. By me getting fit (which might not be skinny to the world's standards) means that I will be more able to serve Him better. I am in the midst of some of the hardest work of my life (this is NOT easy) but it is the right thing to do - and sometimes the right choice doesn't feel good or isn't the easiest. God has really been working on me in obedience in this area, and I have been stubborn and He has always won and I sometimes grumble back at Him...it has been some challenging times - but it also has been RICH times too! I wonder what we will be working on next? Lord knows He won't be done refining me until my last day here is done!!

My trip back East was good...not exactly as I planned it but that's life I guess! The flights there and back were great - no problems at all. It was fun flying into my old neck of the woods - not much has changed. I felt like I had just left! The smells came rushing back and of course I was quickly reintroduced to the EC attitude. Highlights of the trip were the shows we saw (Mary Poppins was my favorite. Also saw Young Frankenstein and Legally Blond), visiting Magnolia Bakery and having the most amazing cupcake ever (well worth the 30-min wait), eating at our fave places and just taking everything in and "being" in NYC. (The city was very busy that weekend.) On our way back into NJ we got to ride on one of the new transit trains (which was super nice), and as usually our luck were seated by some really annoying drunk people (this time the drunk people didn't hit on us). On Sunday night I got to spend a little bit of time in Hunterdon County. While it was in the dark and we were there for just a few mins, it still felt like home. I did try to stop in on some old friends to surprise them but unfortunately they weren't home. We couldn't have asked for nicer weather too - it was perfect!! In hindsight I would have loved more time in NJ and (of course) PA and VA, but one can only do so much in a holiday weekend! I'm sure more stuff happened but my memory isn't serving me all too well at the moment!

Last night I watched my team, the Pittsburgh Penguins, survive and edge past Detroit in sudden death triple overtime. Can't wait until tomorrow night!! I do love the Pens and if I was rich I so would be in PA rooting them on in person tomorrow night!!

I had a terrible weekend. It was totally one of those weekends where everything seemed to be going wrong. I hurt both of my feet walking (5 miles a day) and was hobbling around all weekend due to the many blisters on the bottom of each foot. To top it off I cut my heel with a razor and not only had to keep changing band aids trying to get it to clot but once I got it under control I got to clean the blood that was all over the carpet. Note to self - don't try to walk across the room on a bloody foot!! My laptop caught a trojan and died. I broke a dish. My niece broke my sunglasses. My windshield got hit with a rock. My kitten was ultra annoying and very disobedient and wouldn't come when I called him and was late. My Arbonne party was canceled. And, I didn't clean my house (again - I am so bad!) Anyway, that was one weekend I was glad to see end.

I did get a surprise early bday present - a new laptop - from my parents last night.:-)

I am reading a good book right now called Now and Not Yet. I so identify with it and it makes me feel more normal and less alone!! It is a must read for any Christian single girl in her upper 20's and older who sometimes wonder, "Seriously, God, what is going on here? What is wrong with me?" Ok friends, go get it NOW!

Sorry for the 20 days since my last post. I must admit, I just haven't been in the blogging mood lately. Maybe I am simply being blog-lazy! In any case, I thought that I better quickly update you or else I will be really, really behind! So here is a recap of what has been going on with me. (And the next time I hope to blog will be when I am on the EC!:-))

Gas
Is now at $4.35/gallon here. OUCH!

Diet
Some of you know, some of you don't. My writing it here is my way of keeping myself accountable - although I must admit that I don't like letting the world know that I am dieting! In any case, today marks two weeks since I started a very intense diet. I am taking HCG/B12 shots three times a week. I am eating only 800 calories. I am taking prescription medicine to curb my hunger and give me energy (phentermine, water pills, vitamins, etc). I am exercising as much as I can. I know, I know some of you may think that meds, shots, and such a low-cal diet is unhealthy and crazy. I would somewhat agree with you. I definitely need to note that it is not for everyone. My body/circumstance is able to handle this type of diet and this is what I am choosing to do to get semi-fast results. I am under the close watch of a doctor and the meds and shots are only a SHORT TERM way to help me lose weight - they are tools and not the answer. Obviously I know that a lifetime of eating less and exercising more is the best way to do it - and what I plan to do (as well as meeting with a nutritionist once a month) for the rest of my life to maintain. I am hoping to reach my halfway goal at the end of June and reach my full goal by my 30th bday in early September. I must say that while this diet is tough, I am committed and sticking to it! And, it is working. I have lost 9.75 pounds so far. I am noticing it in my clothes and that is the best motivation. I am already feeling better and hope to inspire other people to take control. I'll keep you updated!

NYC
I leave this afternoon for my EC trip. I am way excited. We will be in PA, NJ, and NY (most of our time being in NYC). Thank goodness for my tax refund and rebate which allowed me to take this trip debt-free. The weather looks nice and (I think I mentioned this before) it is a year to the day since I moved. Hannah is flying out from WA and meeting me there. It is kinda surreal - I can't believe I will be there tonight! I am working a half day today and fly out this afternoon. Many thanks to my dad and Jerelyn who are taking turns watching Jersey-kitty while I am gone!

Michael Buble
A couple of weeks ago my mom and I went to this concert in Fresno. We had WONDERFUL seats. We couldn't quite reach out and touch him but we definitely were very up close and personal. The concert was soooo good. He is quite the entertainer - funny, warm, very interactive with the audience, CUTE, and a great singer. His band was also excellent. I would rate this concert a pg-13 though - I def didn't think Michael Buble would be kinda risque sometimes. Nevertheless, if you get a chance, go see him. The music is terrific, and he is all around a great performer. A quick side story - he came out in jeans and a hoodie and watched the opening act and sat with the sound guys. I recognized him and at that point we def could have reached out and touched him. My mom and I (of course) didn't make a scene but really enjoyed just watching him interact with the others and support the group before him. When they were done he high-fived each of them as they exited. By then though other people had noticed him and were yelling at him. He tried to keep a low profile but at that point he had to go backstage. He seemed to be very down to earth and have a good repoir (sp?) with everyone.

Young Life
Our last club was last night. I am looking forward to having another night free to exercise and relax. The best part of YL this year has been making new friends with the other YL leaders. I hope I get to see them over the summer. They go to my church so hopefully I will bump into them there. CA YL has been different from NJ YL. Different doesn't mean bad though. Sometimes I will still see a kid walking and think, "Oh there's s0-and-so!" and then realize that these are CA kids and not NJ kids. There is something to be said about serving in the same YL club that I was in as a high schooler. I wish I could go to Malibu (camp in BC) with them this summer! I have also enjoyed getting to know the girls.

Mother's Day
This was a good, relaxed day. My dad was out of town in Iowa helping with a raid (one of the largest there). I hosted dinner at my house. Ryan, Brooke, Sullivan, me, my mom (of course - it was her day!), and my aunt were there. Everyone pitched in and dinner was great. I don't mind hosting - in fact I rather enjoy entertaining. And I think it is a nice break for my mom to get out of her place...

Suzanne
One of my good friends (and former roomie) was in town and I got to visit with her a couple of weeks ago. She is such a great person. I wish she lived closer! It was so nice to catch up - even if it was for just a little while. She is one of those types of people where no matter how long you are apart when you get together you pick up right where you left off. She has been there for me in good and bad times and is definitely a life long friend. While they were here her husband (and my friend) Chris graduated. Congrats Chris!

Sleepover
Sullivan had her first slumber party ever and it was at my house last Friday night. She did very well and her primary concern was playing with the kitten. Her first words when she woke up were, "Ti?" "Ti?" (Her word for kitty.) She and I played on the piano, played in the backyard, watched cartoons, played with toys, and more. She slept in my bed with me and also shared my pillow (by her choice). She is so funny - and such a sweet girl. Thanks to her parents for letting me spend that time with her!!

Swedish Festival
The next morning we got up, got ready, and walked down to the Swedish Festival parade with Brooke. The parade was long and VERY hot (103). We really didn't stay afterward to walk around as it was too hot and we were ready to get out of the sun. I really wish they had kept the booths in the beautiful shaded park. I hadn't been to the Swedish Festival in years so it was fun to go again - even though hardly anything had changed. My mom was in the parade for her school. I was asked to be in the parade (as I am a former Swedish Festival queen) but I nicely turned them down. Maybe some day, but not this year. It was Kingsburg's 100th bday and they were giving out free cake. I was a good girl though and didn't eat any!:-)

You are pretty much up to date now! Gotta get back to work - have a great Thursday!

We just went out to B.J.'s (deep dish pizza place - and oh so yummy) to celebrate Stephanie's birthday. (At work here we go out to lunch and the birthday girl/guy gets to choose the place.) Anyway, when we arrived Stephanie's fiance said, "You'll never guess who's here?" We were like, "who?" Only to be pointed towards this guy who was a few booths down from us.

Yup, that's Jared from Subway. We had a good little laugh out of it, the fact that he was in Fresno with some Subway reps (I mean, of all places) but of course we didn't see the need to rush over, take pics, ask for an autograph, whatever. I mean come on, I would hardly describe him as a celebrity (and I probably wouldn't, and haven't, fall all over myself to talk to a celebrity or take a pic). Anyway, as he got up to leave the two women at the table right by us, each with their baby seated next to them, noticed who he was. The started pointing, talking loudly, and giggling. When Jared went to leave the restaurant the ladies called their server over, left him at the table to watch the two babies, and ran out after Jared. About 5 mins later they came back in so excited that they had met and (gasp!) taken a picture with Jared! From Subway! And they both pulled out their cell phones and spent the rest of their lunch calling people and telling them who they had just met and took a picture with. They were so giggly and loud about it - like a couple of fourth grade school girls. It made their day - I mean they were just shining because of it.

Anyway, too funny. I would have never guessed Jared would be at the same pizza place as me. And actually I have to give him props that he didn't look stick thin or that he looked any different then any other normal guy. I guess that's why Subway finds him so appealing...and I think he is way past his 15 mins of fame - so he must be doing something right!!

Wedding
This weekend my cousin Scott is getting married. That means I am the last one on the Murray side (of the cousins) to be married. Weird, I never imagined myself as being the last one to get married. Anyway, I haven't been to a wedding in a while and it should be good. Lots of family will be in town which will make for fun times (hopefully)!:-)
Speaking of weddings...
Jerelyn's bridal party went shopping to David's Bridal on Saturday. (Which included Kristin since she was in town. Great seeing her as always - one of my bestest friends.) I must say that I was pleasantly surprised with David's Bridal and anticipate going there for my own wedding. I had horrible experiences in two of the other weddings I was in and their shops - and I definitely want to go to a place that is friendly and decent. David's was just that. Visit Jer's page to hear more on how the day went - I don't want to steal her thunder. But let's just say we are going to be one hot bridal party with an even hotter bride!
Weather
This weekend it felt like June! Yesterday my car thermometer read 94 degrees. Whew! I like warm weather but I don't like sweltering under the sun. I put on my air conditioner - yup, in April. It was out of necessity, I promise! I think we are supposed to be in the 80's for the rest of the week... Guess this means I have to go get some appropriate summer clothing hehehe!
Ugh, so expensive!
OK, I know I keep posting about the gas prices. Today I paid $4.05. The secretary just told me that she heard the cheapest place for gas is the Costco on Herndon. That is way out of my way unfortunately. Seriously, I don't know what I am going to do if these prices keep going up!
Walking
At least one thing that is free is exercising with my mom, SIL, and niece. I really enjoy it. My niece is always so cute when we go. She insists I stay right by her, and I mean RIGHT BY HER. I can't be up on the sidewalk with her on the street or vice versa. She also likes to hold my hand and sing some songs as we walk. Her most favorite thing, however, is going over speed bumps. She has a one track mind as she will ask over an over, "Bump?" "Bump?" "Bump?" She usually gets to go over some bumps...either in the Free Church parking lot we'll take as a detour or the softball alley by the high school or both. Simple pleasures! I also enjoy the social aspect of it and spending time with my mom and Brooke. Exercise is so much better when done with someone else! We have made a habit of it and go mostly every weekday. So why am I not losing weight??
So many projects...
I seriously have so much to do and have little time or money to do it. A house that needs to be cleaned, shrubs that need to be planted, snail bait that needs to be dispersed, new bathroom mirrors that need to be hung, laundry that needs to be done, bills to be paid, etc. I know, I know I am not as busy as working moms (which is a busyness I really look forward to). For me and my lifestyle though I am genuinely busy. Ugh! The list never ends. Help!
Cruise
I am going to Alaska this summer! SO EXCITED! My dad bought our family tickets. My parents, me, my brother, SIL, and niece will be going. It is to celebrate their anniversary. We are traveling in late July. I have never been on a cruise before - and I am super excited about seeing British Columbia and Alaska. The only bummer is that we will not be stopping in Seattle so I can't see Hannah. Boo! Anyone been and have advice on excursions to do?
House Cleaner
I am considering getting a once a month house cleaner. Any suggestions on a safe, trustworthy, professional, and dependable person?
NYC
The time is almost here! I can't wait to go back to the EC! And to my neck of the woods too. Will it be good? Will it be weird? Probably a little of both. It truly is the greatest city in the world!
Jersey (the kitten)
He is getting fixed, micro chipped, and a leukemia shot on Thursday. Poor kitty. Once he has healed though he will be able to (finally!) be an outdoor/indoor cat and that is going to rock his world (in a good way!). He desperately wants to go outside. He is a good kitten...about 50% of the time hehehe.:-)
Almost a year...
It will be a year on May 23. I cannot believe it. I wonder what this next year will hold. Sometimes it is hard for me to believe I am back. In Kingsburg. Hmmm... This year has been a challenge in a couple of ways (Jasmin and cheer). It has also been really good to be back with family and WC friends too. Wow, A YEAR. Crazy!!

Just filled up my tank and gas is now at $3.99/gallon. I just saw on the news the NJ's gas goes up by 22cents tomorrow. That's a big jump! I loved the cheap gas in NJ - and the fact someone else pumped it for me.:-)

Last night I went to Panera Bread in Hanford with Deborah and Jerelyn. It was a great girl's night out - even if it was as low key as eating and chatting. I am so excited that Panera has made its way out to the WC. Every time I go in there it is like I am back at "home" on the EC. We had a wonderful time and before we knew it we had stayed out later then any of us had planned - and I am feeling it today! (Who knew getting home at 10 PM on a work night would be considered late to me? I must be getting old!;-)) I couldn't sleep much last night and woke up every couple of hours. I wondered if it was what I drank but the soda didn't have any caffeine in it. Maybe I was just too wound up after a fun night out with friends...:-) Totally worth it though! We all agreed we needed to do it again soon. I am blessed to have so many good friends. Too bad they can't all live in the same city as me...!!

Kristin surprised me with a license plate order for Christmas and they came into DMV on Wednesday. I am so proud to drive with these around...'cause you know its true! I do love the East Coast! Having these license plates make me smile. Thanks Kristin!

I just paid $3.91 for gas...crazy!

Since November I have been on a huge reading kick. I was the occasional reader outside of high school and undergrad (and free time in grad school meant reading counseling books by mostly Christian therapists) and would pick up a book every now and then - but lately I have been devouring books. It has been so great and it gives me something different to do during my lunch break and while sitting at court waiting for the foster kids' cases to be heard. A couple of months ago I finished the first chick-lit (and very cute) book Hannah had sent to me in the Shopaholic series when I decided to order the sequels from Amazon. While I was waiting for the order to be shipped I asked my mom if she had anything I could read. She gave me the series called Abram's Daughter's by Beverly Lewis. She got this series for Christmas and read and loved it, and told me I would as well. At first I thought it would be really cheesy. But, I love the Amish people, as many of you know, and thought I would give it a try. Simply put, I fell in love with this series. I could not put it down and I would pick up the book whenever I had some free time. Not only did I learn a lot, it gave me a renewed sense of joy in God's characteristics and I finished wishing I can someday have the strength and beauty of character like Leah - the main character. I definitely recommend this series. I am sad it is over... In the meantime I received my shipment from Amazon and I am happily reading the second book in the Shopaholic Series. I am also looking forwarding to reading Now and Not Yet - which I hear from Hannah is excellent and really speaks into single Christian women's lives of the Lord's timing. Sounds good to me! What books have you been reading that you recommend I put on my list?

And you thought the Jasmin drama was done...well, me too! But not quite. Knowing Jasmin - she had to go out with as much drama as possible. That girl is the definition of high maintenance - but I love her for that because that is how she was wired - even though I had days where I was annoyed to no end!!:-)

Yesterday morning I received a call from the high school. I looked down at my cell phone and immediately thought that they were calling me about cheer or something of that nature. When I answered the superintendent greeted me (and the joy of living in a small town - we know each other personally) and she told me she had Jasmin in her office. She then told me that Jasmin was "struck by a truck" but that she was "ok." Of course I immediately became concerned and after hearing she was alright I asked for the full story...

Apparently Jasmin was at Tom's (a local donut shop) to get coffee during break (or recess). I should note here that KHS is a CLOSED campus during break - meaning that Jasmin was disobeying by choosing to walk to Tom's (and she later told me she did it all the time or walked home too - no wonder she doesn't have friends...she hid from them at break and lunch!). She was making her way back to campus when she was hit. According to Jasmin, she was not watching the cars and immediately stepped out into the crosswalk when the little walkie guy came up on the sign. At the same time a white truck was making a right hand turn onto the street she was attempting to cross. He was looking to the left since he had a red light and didn't see her when he turned. From the way I understand it, he clipped her knee which hurt and startled her and she fell back, lost her balance, and had to crawl back to the sidewalk. The truck did not stop (although truthfully I wonder if he even noticed...) The car behind the truck saw what happened and stopped and helped Jasmin. She assured him she would be fine and she then hobbled to the office to report what happened. The police and ambulance were then called. A hit and run report was filed, Jasmin was assessed and told she had just a simple bruised knee and she just needed to ice it, and I was called. Unfortunately the video recorded from the cameras at the high school did not catch the incident because she was too far away from the high school.

When I arrived at the high school I had three thoughts when I first saw Jasmin. 1)Her knee looks fine - not red, not swollen, and she was beginning to walk like normal...all is good health wise. 2)Since she was texting on the phone when I walked into the room (never mind the fact that she can't have a cell phone on campus, ugh!) she must not be in that much pain and 3)She knows she can't wear spaghetti strap tank tops to school...what is she thinking??!! I asked her to tell me her story and she did and of course didn't mention the fact that had she stayed where she was supposed to be this wouldn't have happened. Of course I gave her as much compassion as I could - I think it was more scary for her then anything else, and helped her to rethink how this situation could have been different or better yet - avoided. At that time the superintendent came and talked with me and she called the officer who took the report who came to the school and talked with me.

Linda then talked to me about how Jasmin had told her she was switching host families. This frustrated me because I had asked Jasmin the night before to please, PLEASE, tell the truth as to why she was leaving KHS...that it was a small town, that I wanted to keep my good reputation, etc. Apparently she decided it would be easier to not tell the school it was because she wanted to have friends at Clovis East because I had to spend the next five minutes telling the superintendent the truth and that, unfortunately, I cannot change Jasmin's mind or keep her like I had committed and wanted to. Jasmin just sat there.

I then took Jasmin home and called Cheryl, who if you remember, was supposed to come get Jasmin later in the evening. Cheryl decided to come down right away once she heard of the incident and I told her she should come anyway because Cheryl needed to be the one to officially check her out of KHS - that I could not. So Cheryl told me to tell Jasmin that she would go ahead and take her once she got to town. This sent Jasmin into a flurry of activity - and she definitely let me know she wasn't happy about it. Of course Jasmin didn't pack at all on Sunday, or clean, and she suddenly was rushing around trying to get everything done. She got mad at me when I asked her if she had done this or that (which she promised to do like three weeks ago), or when I told her that, "No, I'm sorry, but you can't leave clothes you don't want here for me to deal with." She also cleaned my bathroom with Endust and got mad when I saw her and asked her to please clean with Comet instead - which she knows how to do but was too lazy to do it right. (And, believe me, had her knee truly been hurt I wouldn't have made her clean at all. Her knee was totally fine, she was just milking it at the high school.) When Cheryl showed up she looked at Jasmin's room and bathroom and she questioned Jasmin as to why she hadn't done this yesterday. Of course Jasmin was full of excuses and at the point it didn't matter to me why. Cheryl asked Jasmin if she owed me any money and Jasmin grudgingly gave me the money she owed me for towels she had ruined (but I was very gracious with her about - and when she ruined them at the beginning of the year she said she would keep using them and replace them when she left) and money for the phone bill for her calls to Germany. She let Cheryl know how she shouldn't have to pay me for the towels - ugh, the nerve of her! This was money for two sets of brand new towels I had bought right before she got here. They were blue towels which were ruined by her face wash - apparently the bleach in the face wash was the culprit in my towels getting bleach blotches all over them. Cheryl asked her why she was being so mean to me and fighting me over towels right before she had to leave and Jasmin said she didn't know - must be her knee. Yeah right, I don't think so.

Finally Jasmin had everything packed and was loading the car. I asked Jasmin to please call my parents to say good-bye. She hadn't even made any effort to do that - or have any type of closure with any of my other family or friends she had met which also ticked me off. Cheryl did a walk through and noticed nothing had been vacuumed - bed hadn't been stripped, etc. Cheryl helped me strip the bed and I just didn't push the issue of cleaning. Jasmin was being snippy, it was hot, Cheryl was in a hurry having to get to the school and check Jasmin out, and I was soooo done with Jasmin being ungrateful and rude. Cheryl said she would give us time to say good-bye and she went out and stood by her car. Jasmin then stared me down and after an uncomfortable silence headed to the door. At this point I was so hurt. I couldn't believe the last seven months were ending this way. She was opening the door when I said, "Aren't we even going to hug good-bye?" She rolled her eyes and told me that she didn't think I would want her to hug me because I was hurt. Then I went off. I was like, "Jasmin - how can you say that??? I just gave you the last seven months of my life. I gave you my time, my money, my family, my friends, my house, my faith, my food...how can you say I wouldn't want a hug? Yes, I don't affirm this decision you are making. Yes, I do think you are making a mistake. I still love you though. I still care for you and want the best for you. I still want to keep in touch. Why are you giving me attitude and fighting me up until the very end? I just feel sad you are choosing these possible friends over me, my family, and everything this community has done for you!!!" At this point it was super hard to keep from crying. I couldn't believe her... And then she said, "Yeah, I am choosing friends over you. And its a risk I am willing to take." And with that I said, "OK" gave her a hug and told her to take care of herself. She then left.

Jasmin will be sleeping on the couch of her temporary host family. They have three kids - one of which has special needs. Jasmin's life will be much different there then here. Who knows who her new permanent host family will be - and if she will ever find one. Who knows if she will ever contact me....

This whole process has been such a struggle. I truly had good intentions going into this and hated the way it ended. That is so not like me - I like closure and going away parties and gifts. I couldn't do any of that for her. I really tried to love her and care for her these past seven months. I was firm but totally fair. I really tried my best. I don't understand why things ended the way they did - and I know I am hurt and need to process this still. Perhaps I will come to realize why God brought her here and in the meantime I am asking that God continue to teach me through this process of confusion and frustration. Perhaps He is also trying to open my eyes to something about myself??

Jerelyn wrote this to me and it made me feel better. I am including it mostly to help encourage me that these last seven months weren't in vain. I should mention here that Jerelyn, like many other family and friends in my life, went out of her way to help Jasmin be successful in her time here - by volunteering to help her take classes by independent study and be her teacher so she could catch up with the American seniors and graduate. I have many stories like that. Jane who met with Jasmin each week to do a Bible Study. My parents who had her over for dinner many times, took her shopping and to the movies, took her to the coast camping, etc. My brother and sister-in-law who did her favors and gave her rides. My extended family who welcomed her into holiday celebrations and made sure she was included in the upcoming wedding of my cousin. The friends who donated money so she could go on the two YL trips. The YL leaders who befriended her and also did favors for her. Amy who spent the weekend with Jasmin and stayed up late talking with her. My church family who made her feel like a part of the family and helped care for her when she was sick. The local doctor who took her in, even though he wasn't accepting new patients, because she was a foreigner and he wanted to make her feel welcome in our community and country. I'm sure I am leaving many stories out...

"I read this morning on your blog what happened with Jasmin. You did a great thing accepting her into your home and loving her for who she was. Giving your time, patience, money, home...etc. And asking for nothing in return but a little bit of cooperation and respect. You were a great model of a Christian woman and I have no doubt that you have influenced her in a GOOD way. I'm so sorry it ended this way and that you're disappointed. Give it time...I have a feeling it will sink in for her. And of course I'll be praying for her."

Today I am frustrated. Jasmin is leaving tonight to Clovis in order to attend Clovis East starting tomorrow. I think that this is a wrong decision on her part and have expressed that to her, but at the same time I have to release her with my love knowing that God will be traveling with her.

This all began a week and a half ago when I had to sit Jasmin down and talk to her about the lie I uncovered. She had been lying to me all along - telling me she had done her physical in order to participate in track when she had not - which was her secret way of getting out of track (she hated track and didn't want to participate even though she had signed and agreed to do it - it was a condition of her coming here - that she would do an extracurricular activity such as a sport). She was not happy when I told her she had to honor her contract and get the physical, go to track, and be a part of the team (even though she made it clear to the coach she did not want to participate). I then talked to her about her grades which have ranged from poor to fair. There truly is no excuse to get such grades from KHS. Also, American schools are notoriously far easier then European schools - so there was no excuse. Plus, she came over here to go to school and improve her grades and so far she had not done a good job and I knew her parents weren't pleased. The last thing I talked to her about was her attitude. Jasmin is (obviously) from a different culture and on top of that from a big city so coming to Kingsburg meant that she couldn't be so abrupt and that she needed to stop being rude and soften her words. Many people have told me how Jasmin had come across negatively to them, and I had experienced it firsthand on a weekly basis. I wanted to help her realize how she was coming across, even if unintentionally, and how to change so that these last two months would be better. It was a hard talk to have with her, but I wanted to be honest and loving so that it could help her in the long run.

On Saturday Cheryl, who is the international organization's rep, came over and talked with Jasmin as well. We revisited a lot of the same subjects but also talked about her room and bathroom and the friend situation. Jasmin has her own room and bathroom and since she has been closing her doors I have not fought the battle of cleaning up with her. She just has to do a thorough cleaning the last weekend of every month. Now anyone who knows me should know that this was very hard for me to swallow as I like things picked up and presentable, but I really chose to pick my battles with her and knew the room and bathroom wasn't one worth picking. Well when Cheryl saw it (it floors me how Jasmin chose not to clean it before Cheryl came over) she told Jasmin her room and bathroom had to be clean from now on and that by her not cleaning it she is sending me a message of being disrespectful. Also, Cheryl talked to her about the friend situation. You see, when Jasmin first came here she was the toast of the town. Kids were calling her to hang out, she was asked on dates, she was going to lunch, and she was asked to the Christmas dance. After Christmas break everything came to a screeching halt. Not one friend has called her - and that is not an exaggeration. She has been my shadow and I have had to be her source of entertainment as she has no friends. I should back up though and mention that I told her several times to call people to hang out and she said no - that they should call her. So she definitely has the princess mentality going on. Anyway, I have been telling Cheryl this all through this semester- that I was worried for Jasmin and how she didn't have any friends and that I was worried that it was because of how she comes across - that when she first came people loved her but when the real Jasmin came out she lost all her friends in a hurry. We confronted Jasmin about this on Saturday and she flipped out. Lots of attitude came flying out at me across the table and many sighs and eye rolling. She told me I was wrong - that she had lots of friends but that she just chose to hang out with them at school only because she got her fill of them there - that Americans are sooooo superficial. I told her that she is the only 17 1/2 year old I know that doesn't want to see or do anything with friends on the weekends. At that time Cheryl mentioned that she should just pull Jasmin out of my house because of her very bad attitude. I pleaded with Cheryl to at least give Jasmin a week to change things around before she did that. While Jasmin has been a challenge to have in my home - I knew and still know that God brought her here for a reason and that her time here is not done yet. Cheryl agreed to that and took Jasmin home with her for the weekend. When I picked her up on Sunday Jasmin told me she wanted to stay in my home and was going to try really hard to change and make it work.

On Wednesday I came home from Young Life and Cheryl and Jasmin were waiting for me. Cheryl told me that Jasmin had confessed to her that she was indeed lying about the friend situation and that she doesn't have any friends here. She said she has a reputation of being a b**** at school and that she "isn't happy but not unhappy here." Cheryl then mentioned that she thinks Jasmin needs a fresh start with a new school and that she thinks she could get Jasmin into Clovis East. She wanted Jasmin to think about it and get back to her. I was floored at this point. Jasmin doesn't need a fresh start just so she can gain friends. She needs to learn how to change herself in order to be a better person instead of doing the quick fix of changing environments. Plus, Clovis East is almost three times the size of KHS, much harder academically, and I'm sorry, but I don't think she will be able to make friends there in the time allotted. She is a senior and transferring in with other seniors who are thinking about graduation in a few weeks is not a good idea. Plus, she will be taken away from the track team she made a commitment to, beginner Bible study she was doing every week with Jane, the church family she has come to know, Young Life she went to on a weekly basis and two YL trips she went on with money people generously donated, family obligations such as a wedding coming up, and giving up her host family here who she knew and was safe with. Cheryl said that Jasmin can find a new family by handing out fliers. To me that meant she would find any ol' family - and a quick fix. Jasmin said she would think about it.

On Thursday night I came home and reminded Jasmin that we were taking her to LA this weekend and that she needed to be packed and ready by 4 on Friday. At that point she told me that she had made up her mind and decided on Clovis East and that she didn't want to go to LA but take the weekend to put up fliers instead. At this point I was so frustrated that she made such a selfish decision - and I was very hurt. My family and I have bent over backwards for her providing her with free room and board, love, favors, rides, and several trips to different places in the US. Plus, I feel like the community of Kingsburg had really rallied around her - especially the YL leaders. And yet she was so indifferent about us and thought that possible friends were better. She also said she had talked to her parents and that they told her they wanted her to be happy and that she could move. On Friday Jasmin went and stayed with Cheryl for the weekend and put up fliers. Last night she came home and packed and she is moving out tonight and that will be that I guess. She will be staying with Cheryl's assistant Regina until she finds a home. Last night I told Jasmin for the last time how I felt like she was making the wrong decision. I told her that while I send her with my love that I hope that someday she looks back and realizes that change needs to come from one's self and that that is a lesson I am still learning myself. While I wish her no ill will, I do hope that she also looks back and realizes that she had it really good here.

Anyway, this has been hard for me to process. I really feel like a failure. I still cannot understand how she can just up and leave like it is no big deal. While Jasmin was a tough cookie, my main goal in keeping her, and what I had to continually remind myself - was that God sent her here for a reason. She is not a believer but is definitely seeking. I did all I could by living my faith out in front of her - as did all the other Believers in her life while she was here, and I also took her to YL and church. I just feel like she is leaving prematurely. My job is not done with her. Most of all I worry for her spiritually. She is a very lost girl who was asking great questions and (seemed to at least) soaking in all that she was learning here. What will become of her now? God is traveling with her, and as Hannah reminded me last night God will continue to fight for her, I think it is my control issues that are getting in the way here. It's not that Jasmin was my project or anything, but I did come to care for her and as a Christian I only wanted her to come to know Jesus as well. Perhaps she still will...God is just as much at Clovis East as He is here and He certainly doesn't need me to accomplish His will in her life.

Anyway, it will be weird saying goodbye to Jasmin tonight. Originally I had planned on throwing her a good-bye party in my backyard with my new deck at the end of the year and inviting everyone who had come to care about her in Kingsburg, but now things are different. It is a hard line to walk because I want her to know I care about her and that we can keep in touch - but that I do not condone or affirm this decision she is making. Ugh, I am just frustrated with Jasmin AND her organization who put this idea in her head in the first place. Also, I should mention here that her parents have not contacted me at all to ask my opinion or even say "goodbye." Weird!! I guess the Jasmin saga is coming to a close very rapidly... I ask that you keep her in your prayers.