Life

Each step of life is a journey that you choose to walk.

Each moment of life is another line, sentence, paragraph and chapter of the book called your life.

Enjoy all that life has to offer, good friends, good food, good coffee and as always wisdom and a good laugh.

~Jen





30 June 2011

What Happens In Vegas...Part 3


Dinners and after parties were abound over the quick week in Las Vegas. What was amazing to me was how excited everyone was to see each other. Now, as I have said before, most of us thought we'd never see each other again, so the excitement was not contained!


My dear friend, Larry, and I hung out much of the day on Friday taking care of last minute reunion details, such as paying for the events. Not me...Larry!! He was the "Man of the Hour" or event as it were! Taking care of all the dinner plans and scoping out the spots was a lot of fun.


Once we finished up in the nice "air pumped/air conditioned" casino's we headed outdoors to a Carnival to hang out with some other OkiBrats! What a blast from the past as we sat back and listened to the WHIPITS(the Band of the Day)! They were a '80s tribute band that had a crazy show and great "classic" songs! I was quickly reminded of the Peaceful Love concerts in Okinawa! We had a terrific time!



Dinner at Max Brenner's was fantastic and the food was good too. For once, the food (for a foodie mind you)took second stage. All the talking and laughing and picture taking took center stage. Now let me just tell you this...if chocolate is your weakness...then you'll over do it at Max Brenner's! That place oozes chocolate!


So as a wrap of Friday we all took off for Revolution, a dance club at the Mirage. That place was crazy loud and so much fun! Watching everyone dance around and talk more, laugh more, and take more pictures...I was again reminded of all the fun we all had together in Okinawa. I have to say this though...I have not been to a night club in so long that I was WIPED OUT by time we left...not to mention...my shoe broke that night! Yeah...walking around Vegas (even just across the street) barefoot is not such a smart move.




So what to look for in Part 4...the quiet side and wrap up...

~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

28 June 2011

What Happens in Vegas...Part 2

Our trip to Las Vegas was very routine. I have not flown in 6 years so any new changes that TSA has implemented were beyond me! 3oz of liquid in a clear zip lock bag that must be quart size...LOL...is that really going to stop someone? Shoes off and then proceed to get scanned (which I prefer over the physical "body search"). Now what gets me is that people in front of me still did not "follow directions"! I felt like asking them if they were still in elementary school...being taught how to follow directions. As a parent I expect my children to follow directions; so be default I expect adults to do the same and not hold up the progression of getting through security!


Once we arrive to our destination I was so excited! So close to seeing friends from Okinawa! So here it is...my birthday! My 39th birthday as a matter of fact and I am going to celebrate it in Vegas...not even a dream come true...just very fortunate for the timing of it all! As Mike and I met up with my friend (and brother) Larry, we were trying to get a taxi to head up to the site and the gentleman at the door offered us a limo instead for a very reasonable price! So why not...it's MY BIRTHDAY! Off we go on my first limo ride -> in Vegas -> with my husband and long time friend! Scratch one off the "Bucket List"!


We head up to the Palms hotel to the very well known Ghost Bar and slowly all the Oki Peeps that were in town began to come up and hang out. It was beautiful...the skyline, the breeze and the calm atmosphere. I don't think I could have asked for a better birthday! Laughter and stories abound as people began to arrive and I just loved seeing so many people...those I knew well, those I "knew" and those who left the island before I arrived...it was all so EPIC (as my kids say).


As the buzz of the reunion got underway I began to realize that I have been planning for this moment for 2 years! 2 years! I don't think I've ever planned for anything that far in advance, but I am so glad I did this time! Thanks to all for making Vegas so memorable.


Part 3...the bands...the dinners...the parties...

~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

27 June 2011

What happens in Vegas...Part 1

What a great trip to Las Vegas, NV. Now I am going to preface this by saying that I am not a gambler and I do not enjoy super huge crowds of people. I came to Vegas to see friends from Okinawa, Japan that I have not seen in 20 years! Now a reunion may be “normal” for most people, but if you are a DoDDS student or military brat that is not the case.


I remember when I graduated high school I really thought that I’d never see any of my classmates again. Oh, it wouldn’t be from lack of trying, but the truth of the matter is, technology was land line phones, TTY, and phone cards…unless you wanted to write a letter. So I really thought that I would never see the majority of my classmates and friends again. I graduated in 1990 and I don’t even think the internet was known to the world. I know for a fact there were no cell phones (unless you count those HUGE satalite phones that people carried around to “look cool”).



Thanks to the internet, facebook, and email, many of us “Okibrats” have not only gotten back in touch, but have even seen each other again! Now there are some who live in the Far East, others on the West Coast, Mid West, North East and, like me, the South. What is so great about us is one thing…time is not a factor when we get together. We just pick up where we left off. It does not matter who’s married, divorce, has lots of money, or has no money…we are Oki Brats and that is all that matters. So that is why I have gone to Las Vegas, and I am so glad that I did! It is a trip that I will not soon forget, and time was not a factor. We hung out, we listened to loud over the top music, we ate, we drank, we shared stories and asked about those that have lost touch.


So this is the start of Vegas. My husband, Mike, and I were there for 5 days, so there is much to share, too much for just one post, so sit back and enjoy what few ever do…reliving life with those who live life.


~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

21 June 2011

What's your perspective?

This was sent by a dear friend of mine and I just love it! Enjoy this perspective in life and then...go eat a piece of chocolate!

Some "perspectives" are worth sharing!


A young lady confidently walked around the room while leading and explaining stress management to an audience; with a raised glass of water, and everyone knew she was going to ask the ultimate question, 'half empty or half full?'..... she fooled them all... "How heavy is this glass of water?", she inquired with a smile.


Answers called out ranged from 8 oz. to 20 oz.


She replied, "The absolute weight doesn't matter. It depends on how long I hold it. If I hold it for a minute, that's not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my right arm. If I hold it for a day, you'll have to call an ambulance. In each case it's the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes." She continued, "and that's the way it is with stress. If we carry our
burdens all the time, sooner or later, as the burden becomes increasingly heavy, we won't be able to carry on."


"As with the glass of water, you have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we're refreshed, we can carry on with the burden - holding stress longer and better each time practiced. So, as early in the evening as you can, put all your burdens down. Don't carry them through the evening and into the night... pick them up tomorrow.


Whatever burdens you're carrying now, let them down for a moment. Relax, pick them up later after you've rested. Life is short. Enjoy it and the now 'supposed' stress that you've conquered!"

1 * Accept the fact that some days you're the pigeon, and some days you're the statue!
2 * Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them.

3 * Always read stuff that will make you look good if you die in the middle of it.

4 * Drive carefully... It's not only cars that can be recalled by their Maker..

5 * If you can't be kind, at least have the decency to be vague

6 * If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably worth it..

7 * It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply to serve as a warning to others.

8 * Never buy a car you can't push.

9 * Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, because then you won't have a leg to stand on.

10 * Nobody cares if you can't dance well. Just get up and dance.

11 * Since it's the early worm that gets eaten by the bird, sleep late.

12 * The second mouse gets the cheese.

13 * When everything's coming your way, you're in the wrong lane.

14 * Birthdays are good for you. The more you have, the longer you live.

15 * You may be only one person in the world, but you may also be the world to one person.

16 * Some mistakes are too much fun to make only once.

17 * We could learn a lot from crayons. Some are sharp, some are pretty and some are dull. Some have weird names and all are different colors, but they all have to live in the same box.

18 * A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour.


19 * Have an awesome day and know that someone has thought about you today.

20 * It was I, your friend!


*Save the earth..... It's the only planet with chocolate !*





~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

The calendar says...

That today is the first day of summer. I find this to be to my amusement since it's been "summer" at my house since May 27! My calendar also says that it's 2 days before my birthday and 1 day before I get on a plane and fly to Las Vegas to see my friends from Okinawa!


My "official" holiday begins after my BNI meeting today. The kids are also going to get a bit of a holiday, but I can't share that with you yet...because if my oldest decides to read this...it'll ruin the surprise.


I plan on posting many a pictures and doing my best to tweet and leave posts on facebook...I may even blog once or twice while I'm there...who knows. I may be too busy catching up to even bother with a blog.


So I'm already packed, my lists are made...so we don't forget anything that is needed. An itinerary is in place...but not set in stone. Mike thinks I'm going to "plan" our vacation to death...I had to remind him that this is my vacation and he is just a fortunate person to be attending with me...hehehehe. So I will be celebrating my 39th in Vegas with those that I share such a special bond with.

With that...I'm off...until my next blog


~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

10 June 2011

Camp, Camping and boats...

Have all been a part of this week! Did I mention surgery, gourmet ice cream and put-put? Well yeah...that has all been this week too.

Monday was the beginning of camp. T-Man left for Children's Camp in the "Wee Hours of the Morn" and Nichole and Lil'Man began Sports Camp with a local sports ministry called CIA Sports Club (www.ciasportsclub.net). At first Lil'Man did NOT want to go...as a matter of fact he became a master of fake tears. But when I picked them up and asked how it was the response was, "AWESOME!!!!". So it was a good week for camp.

Tuesday was all about "THE GIRL". As you may recall this past December she slammed her face into a flat black pole in the dark in front of the dance studio. Well on Tuesday she had a laser procedure done on the scar. She may have to have one more, but we'll see in about 4 weeks. After we were done we went out for some gourmet ice cream. It was very delicious! If you are ever on St. Simons Island, GA...I highly recommend MOO COW CREAMERY!!

Wednesday I was SPENT! By the time I got the kids from sports camp I was worn out, tired and hot! Lil'Man was cranky and tired (although he denies the tired part). So we took Wednesday night off and did not go to karate or Bible Study. Instead we did homework, music class and chores...and then of course the kids wanted to play in the water sprinklers ;-)

Thursday was fun! Right after my air shift I took the kids to camp and I stayed to volunteer. I had so much fun helping out while the kids were playing ball. I had a chance to really learn more about the ministry and how God has lead Allen to this point. It is so amazing to hear others share the love of God as He reveals Himself to those around me. I am humbled by His unending love for all of us!

Friday...oh yeah...that's today! Today has been another wonderful day filled with so much. As I finished up my work and headed home, I had to stop by to see a friend. Amazed again by the stories of God's love and grace I then headed home to get the kids ready for their day. We finished up the housework, watched a little TV and then took Nichole to her friends house as she was invited to go camping. Then it was DATE TIME!

Lil'Man and I went out and had a blast (in the this South Georgia heat). First we went and played a round of Put-Put, then back to Moo Cow's for some more delicious frozen treats, and then we went down to the Marina to look at the boats. While we were there I met a wonderful retired couple, and Lil'Man and I were invited to "Come Aboard". Lil'Man was so excited because all he kept saying was, "I want to go on a boat." God answers all prayers, and this one was answered with a "Yes". Come to find out, they have been here 11 years, now retired, have a wonderful church home, and yes...listen to 90.7 WAY Radio, . So they recognized me after a few minutes of talking and we began to share more about God's goodness and how He is so faithful. Lil'Man and I were invited to take a quick cruise, but we graciously declined this go round. I needed to stay on land because it is almost time to get T-Man. The boy has been gone from me for 5 days and I am ready to see him!

Once he gets home -> it's off to Grandma's to pick some more blueberries! I just love the blueberries! Well there it is...in a nutshell. Oh yeah...did I mention it's almost my birthday? Well it is...less than 2 weeks away, and I'm looking forward to celebrating with my OkiBrats in Vegas! I am sure to post all about it, but until then...

~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

08 June 2011

New Book by Jeremy Camp

To read Jeremy Camp's post about his new book , "I Still Believe", visit jeremycamp.com




I Still Believe
Discovering hope and healing in the midst of life’s deepest valleys?
How will we respond amidst life’s hardest trials? How in the passing of a loved one do we turn our earthly sorrow into heavenly hope? How, when we have no strength to face another day, do we truly lean on the Lord, trust in the power of His word and see that all of His plans towards us are for our good?

Award-winning singer/songwriter Jeremy Camp wrestled with these questions and others from the depths of anguish and encountered a solace that has carried him far beyond easy answers. The testimony of Jeremy and his wife Melissa has touched and inspired thousands.

by Jeremy Camp and Phil Newman

~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

Ezekiel 3

It has taken me 2 days to read through Ezekiel 3. I'm still not sure if I really understand everything that I read. I love how Ezekiel sits in glory for 7 days. What a glimpse of eternity!

I'm not so sure about the scroll...why did God have Ezekiel eat the scroll, as in devour? Is this a metaphor? Does that mean that Ezekiel was to read it until it was memorized, or does this mean that he literally ate the scroll, the Words of God?


Now, as God is giving instruction to Ezekiel on what he is to do and what God is going to allow and what He is going to need to be done, I wonder what Ezekiel was thinking. To know that I am thickheaded and stubborn has always seemed to be a bad thing until I read this passage. Ezekiel is "hard headed" and God uses this as an attribute, not as a hindrance. But again, God tells Ezekiel that His people's hard head is part of the problem. I take this to mean that it's not how God created you, but how you use it.

So here we are...with marching orders. Eat my words, use what you got (what I gave you), and now go sit and wait. As I look at the meat of chapter 3, I see God's character being revealed. Isn't this God's M.O.? I have seen this instruction time and again; with Abram and Sarah, with Moses, with Israel and Joseph. Again we see His character revealed this way with David, and with Joseph, Mary, Zechariah and Elizabeth.

God is God. His word says that He is the God of yesterday, today and forever (Revelation 1:8 & Hebrews 13:7-9). Knowing this to be true, then do we really expect God to be any different today?


~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

07 June 2011

New Releases



Superchic[k]'s front woman Tricia Brock has a new album out today called "The Road". Produced by her husband Nick Baumhardt (Stellar Kart, FM Static, Thousand Foot Krutch). The Road is a refreshing new take on what we’ve grown to expect when we hear Tricia sing. This project is a collection of songs meant to breathe hope and to inspire new life into a battling heart. The Road features new versions of the popular songs “Always” and “Jesus I Am Resting, Resting,”.



Rebecca St. James is back with her new album "Back 2 Back Hits". The best of Rebecca St. James' Worship God and If I Had One Chance To Tell You Something on 1 CD - all the radio hits and fan favorites in one place


~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

06 June 2011

In the Presence of God

I have made a decision to read one of the books of the prophets. I am starting with Ezekiel. Now I must be truly honest here and tell you that I have never read any of the books of the prophets. I have read a verse or a part of a chapter, but never before with intention of understanding have I intentionally tried to read a prophetic book from the Bible.

As I have begun with Ezekiel 1 I was taken back by the detail description of the Four Figures. I would be in as much awe as Ezekiel was if not more if I were to see such a vision! I am still trying to wrap my mind around all the details. Four figures, multiple wings, lightning, fire, many faces...as I was reading this my mind went to a scene in Harry Potter.




Ezekiel 2 was surprisingly short. This is where the Figures speak to Ezekiel. This is where Ezekiel receives his marching orders. This makes me wonder...if God were to come to me in such a way, first of all...would I recognize Him as who He is and second of all would I be able to follow through on the instructions that were given me?

And that gives me my thought to ponder for the day. We have already been given our marching orders...The Great Commission. Jesus tells his disciples (that includes you and me)in Matthew 28: 16-20...

But the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some were doubtful. And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Am I being obedient? Was Ezekiel? Please don't tell me the end of the story...I'm looking forward to seeing how Ezekiel responds to God. How will you respond to God?

~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

03 June 2011

All Aboard and...

full steam ahead for the weekend. I'm tired and it has not even begun yet ;-) So what is on the agenda you ask?

Well as I am wrapping up my morning on 90.7 Way Radio's Bart & Jen in the Morning, I have already prepped and sent invoices and prepared for Sunday's show! Now I just have to enjoy the rest of my air shift and then post a few envelopes. All in all, I'd say a productive and fun morning!

When I get home today it will be time to pack bags! Not for me though...for the kids. They are all getting ready for different activities. "T", my older son is preparing for his first camping trip without his older sister or younger brother. I know that he is excited, but I have to say...I'm a bit nervous. I know that I shouldn't be. I remember that my daughter went on her first long trip at age 10.

Sissy is spending the weekend with G-Ma. They are going to be working on their jewelry. She really loves making necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. She'll enjoy herself (as she always does) with my mom.

Tonight Mike is catering and so the kids, my mom and I are going to see a our local Steps of Faith dance company perform their spring production! I am really looking forward to watching these fine young men and women dance for the Lord!

Tomorrow is another day filled with much! Of course Karate and then T will be belt testing. Right after that...family photo for the directory AND then...off to drop off the Boy so he can hang with one of friends for the night. Now as to whether or not T will be staying home or hanging with a friend is yet to be determined...but either way Mike & I (maybe T) will be going to see comedian Jeff Allen. So it's going to be a full weekend.

I am really looking forward to spending quality time with my family this weekend and to also give them a "little space" to be who they are and discover more of who they are with just friends.

Happy Weekend!!

~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

02 June 2011

Black & White by Royal Tailor | CD Reviews And Information | NewReleaseTuesday.com

Brand new band...brand new song called "Hold Me Together" on 90.7 WAY Radio.

I really like the song, it's very catchy and current. The sound is a mix between Cold Play and Dave Matthews. Listen to it and let me know what you think.



Black & White by Royal Tailor | CD Reviews And Information | NewReleaseTuesday.com

~Peace & Blessings~
Jen

01 June 2011

New Month...

and trying to have a new attitude! I have to say that I'm so thankful that last week is over and in the past, however...


it was not nearly as overwhelming as I was anticipating. I guess you could say that this is a lesson learned. Anxiety is a tricky feeling and I prefer to not let it get the better of me. I was reminded about half way through last Thursday of this Bible Verse...

MATTHEW 11:28-30, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

I remember that after I had posted my last blog that I had to intentionally give my fear and anxiety to the Lord. I have to tell you though that this is much easier said than done, but I do remember having a quiet peace after I turned it all over and said, "OK...this is all on YOU, Jesus. I can't do this day without you." And I have to say that the day went much better than I could have hoped for. I was on time for everything & we really enjoyed the end of school celebrations!

I again was reminded of another passage in the Bible...

Philippians 4:10-14, "But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction."

I believe that many people are very familiar with verse 14, but I want us to focus on the previous verses... I have learned to be CONTENT in whatever circumstances I am. These words are like air to me. Knowing that I can be and need to be content in HIM and not worry about what is going on around me.

Over the weekend I did really enjoy spending time with my family. We really had a blast! Karate on Saturday was good. Thomas was baptized on Sunday and Nichole was part of Youth Sunday Service.


It was such a spirit led morning!


Afterward we hung treated the kids to lunch out & then back to the church for wet fun. Later Sunday evening we went to my MIL's church for 5th Sunday sing. Dinner was good and the music was worshipful. I even got "called out" to lead a song. It was all great fun.

Monday we picked blueberries and had a cookout together with both sets of Grandparents and swam in the pool. Oh Yeah...and the boys both got haircuts!! What a wonderful time of rest.



So beginning yesterday my "Life" schedule has changed...I am now up at 0500 and to work by 0530. Upside, I'm home by 0915 so I can get the kids where they need to be for summer activities and to keep myself on track I have 2 designated days a week for meetings. This new "Life" schedule is all of God's doing, none of mine because I would not have been able to orchestrate all the details that have fallen into place.

I suppose the moral of my story is this...Let Go and Let God!

~Peace & Blessings~
Jen