Oh the Joy!

... Of Spring!!! I think today is my favorite yet of this season I'm experiencing here for the first time since my move to Boston. Spring has Sprung (as a friend wrote to me on Facebook the other day) and I couldn't be a lighter more ecstatic participant in the world today. In fact, I just skipped out to Starbucks to add to my joy with a delightfully refreshing Americano (iced, decaf with vanilla and room). I met Marilyn, an apparent "regular" who works up the street and told me that the friends at SBucks know her name and her drink.

I must pause to appreciate that someone else in this city cares about that like I do. :)

There is no menacing humidity in the air, the sun is shining, the sky is clear and people are, well, happy. What difference the weather does make! Upon my return to the office I told my friend that we should forget our to-do lists and work and frolick in the city. Truth be told, I can't do that today, but it is a nice thought worthy of the statement.

Back to work for now, but I'm smiling as I go.

And So It Begins!

The Boston Red Sox returned to Fenway Park today for our home opener. Boy, I'm glad baseball season has begun! The new World Series 2007 Champions banner hanging Boston red on the Green Monster is a welcome sign promising good things to come... We hope! :)

I'll use today as the "official" start to the season.

A personal aside... I think it's rather funny that Bill Buckner threw out the opening ceremonial pitch. The guys in the office use the phrase, "He pulled a Buckner!" to describe my dating life at unfortunate moments. Sweet Bill Buckner... I do feel compassion for him.

Here's to the Sox and my favorite player and future friend (I keep praying!), David Ortiz! Go Big Papi!!!

Two Words Remain: Play Ball!!!

Over-Time

Kansas and Memphis are in the first over-time with around 45 seconds left. You might wonder why I'm blogging, but remember, I am a woman and good at multi-tasking. I was just sitting here thinking what a good, but long day it's been and now I'm up at a quarter to twelve, watching the Championship and eating my new favorite treat... Wallaby Organic Yogurt - the Pineapple Coconut flavor! It's amazing - reminds me of my Grandma B.'s "Hawaiian cake recipe... delicious!

Life is good.

Oh, gotta run... 12.8 left on the clock. Kansas is up 73 to 68 and at the line. My bracket was "over" a while ago (UCLA lost, but ultimately, my Kentucky Wildcats made it a short tourney season for me this year). I'm rooting for Kansas due to my connection with many good friends who love them.

So, Go Jayhawks!

Dude, Memphis DENIED with mere seconds on the clock... It's OVER!

What a comeback!!!

CONGRATULATIONS KANSAS JAYHAWKS - 2008 NCCA MEN'S BBALL CHAMPIONS!

Ahhh... until next year...

I've Got Some Work to Do

It's Friday. When I get home this evening, I'm going to see how many push-ups I can do. I'm sure it will be less than I think. What about you?...

An Enduring Measure of Fitness: The Simple Push-Up

Restless!

New England winter goes on forever... or so it seems. This reality is compounded by the flu. Yes, the past week and a half I have been home. On the couch, in my bed, on the phone, watching movies, sleeping and drinking lot's and lot's of fluids. While I began to feel better over the weekend - my voice returned which is always a good sign - I was still quite lethargic.

The past few days I have made myself stay at home. Normally, I would have already been up and at um' in the office, but I decided to actually take care of myself and fully recover before jumping back into life per normal. This, I believe, has been a good decision, but boy have I been restless. On Monday night I thought I was going to jump out of my skin. Restless energy.

So, that's my story. Not much more to it than that. I did have to leave the house today to go to the dentist of all places. It was a fun excursion. I was happily greeted by WARM air on the other side of my front door which reminded me that spring is on its way - Daylight Savings Time is this weekend: Spring Forward Everyone! Hopefully, we'll experience a true spring this year... That said, my restless self is not getting her hopes up quite yet.

Irony at its Best

The first time I visited Vermont I was overwhelmed by its beauty. It was just two years ago and I was searching for a venue to host our upcoming women's conference. I drove through charming towns on a small, winding two-lane highway and fell in love. Sunroof open, windows down I smiled at the Green Mountains and felt at home. I remember calling my parents while I was on the road and telling them that I had never been to a place so like Colorado, but so different all at once. Vermont carved its way into my heart and took first position as my favorite state in New England.

Years ago when I was still living in Boulder, I visited my then-boyfriends' family here in the Northeast. One sister lived in Burlington, Vermont and provided an interesting factoid: Church Street (Burlington) and Pearl Street (Boulder) were designed by the same people; I filed that information away for a rainy day. Not long after, my relationship ended and God surprised me tremendously in asking me to step out in faith and move to the Northeast. That, in and of itself was well, ironic.

So, on Saturday when I had the opportunity to visit Burlington for the first time (the overarching reason was quite sad...the loss of a co-workers mother), a friend and I were able to take about an hour to visit Church Street before driving back to Boston. It was so strange to witness how alike these downtown areas are and brought back memories of home. Church Street sits just above Lake Champlain and just below the University of Vermont (UVM). It is picturesque and even in mood, much like Boulder. In fact, I just had to take these shots... so reminiscent of home...

Here is where I find the irony of Burlington. Moving to the Northeast a few years back, I quickly learned that Vermont is a very principled place. There are no billboards lining the highways, only four Starbucks locations in the entire state (as of 3/2007) and in all it's legislation is considered very "progressive." Don't get me wrong here, as I have already stated, I love Vermont. I just found it extremely ironic as I walked down Church Street to find many of the businesses falling into the category of non- mom-and-pop type shops. Banana Republic, JCrew, Urban Outfitters, Ann Taylor, Macy's, Borders Books and yes, one of the state's four Starbucks locations. Church Street, in fact, feels like a very capitalist place. For me, it doesn't dispel the charm. It just makes me chuckle.

I felt the same way when I heard that the City of Boulder, after the City Council refused to allow Crossroads Mall to be revamped or torn down and rebuilt as a new entity, approved the building of a Home Depot (gasp!) in the center of Boulder. The revenue that the city lost as Flatirons Crossing opened in nearby Broomfield made its mark. The park the City planned for the location of the closed mall never came to be and eventually, in addition to the Home Depot, an open-air mall opened.

Let me be the first to admit that principles are important. And, I appreciate what some of those principles have meant for my favorite New England state. I just couldn't pass up the chance to enjoy some of the irony, that's all.

American Greatness

My friend Ryan recently posted this story on his blog. A young college grad decides to start "fresh" with $25 in his pocket and the goals of gaining a job, a car, an apartment and $2,500 in savings within one year without the use of his education or contacts. A worthy read.

McRyanMac: American Greatness

Free Rice + Vocab Practice = Good Stuff

Here's to expanding my vocabulary and helping others... Check it out! Warning, it's a little addicting. But, I just scored 3,040 grains of rice! :)

www.freerice.com

The Rain... Over It.

It's been raining for weeks... Well, maybe just days, but it certainly feels longer. This sun-starved transplant of a Coloradoan is missing the glaring warmth of the Rocky Mountain sun tonight in a very bad way. The gloominess is getting to me and I'm remembering that this is what February feels like for me in New England. What an encouraging realization though! It's not me... It's the weather! The last few days have brought higher temperatures amid the rain, so I am grateful and see the blessing in it. Yet, the idea of heading to a tanning salon has crossed my mind frequently (even though I'm not completely "pro" that strategic step).

This morning when I awoke to torrents of rain, I was pained by the reality that I had 9 AM, 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM meetings. In fact, I arrived at the office with pants soaked to mid-calf wondering why I've yet to purchase some stylish rainboots from JCrew or Urban Outfitters (note to self, this is a very good idea!) and told my boss after a quick "Good Morning" that I couldn't believe I actually came to the office today. I know, I'm delightful. :)

In the midst of all of this, I passed Park Street Church on my usual route to the office; I saw a sign on the steps reminding me that today is the beginning of the Lenten Season. Ash Wednesday, in fact. I quickly forgot about this and went to work. Mid-day though, a friend emailed saying we had our monthly "Night of Reflection" at church which jogged my memory... Oh right, Ash Wednesday, Lent, Easter... All day I debated whether I should go or not (more to the story) and finally decided to attend.

There is something about Lent. Never in my life, prior to my move to Boston, did I consider it. My Baptist upbringing did not seem to draw attention to the season before Easter with the exception of Palm Sunday and honestly, I did not know or care much until three years ago. This is not a judgment call, just my experience, but life has been so much richer with an understanding of the Lenten Season.

It came without warning this year. Maybe that's how it happens though. You're moving along with your life per normal, have barely had time to consider that the New Year is here and now, quite suddenly, you are thrown into a season of introspection. If this isn't you, I'll just speak for myself because wow, this is me. I arrived at church tonight (we meet in a hotel in the city for now), took a few moments to catch up with friends and we launched into this...

"By asking for thrones in glory, James and John were wanting comfortable security in addition to honor and power... The spirit of James and John lingers on, especially in us who have been cushioned by affluence. It is true that inflation and unemployment have brought many to a new experience of insecurity. Yet we still regard security as our birthright and 'safety first' as a prudent motto. Where is the spirit of adventure, the sense of uncalculating solidarity with the underprivileged? Where are the Christians who are prepared to put service before security, compassion before comfort, hardships before ease? Thousands pioneer Christian tasks are waiting to be done, which challenge our complacency, and which call for risk."

John Stott The Cross of Christ

Talk about being jolted out of the self-misery of the past few days... Welcome Lent!! In a way, I was elated to hear these words tonight. I think this is the reason: I remembered that it is not about me and more so, there are so many better things to put at the forefront of my life. For instance, worship. Something inside me could not help but worship God tonight. We read these words and as we moved into a time of singing, my heart felt light and free to appreciate God for his goodness in showing me that it's really not about these small, yet complicated dramas in my life or the world around me. He is active in the midst of it - he sent his Son to redeem me out of my gloom - he cares so deeply and loves so freely, speaking truth with grace so I can be free. And, he wants more for me than I want for myself... like getting over myself and moving past complacency and the comfort of security in tangible things to embrace the unknown and to risk.

Does that not inspire and bring life in the midst of my weariness? Absolutely. I love the idea that I have forty days to think about things like this and move toward action as I see the Gospel transform my cynical heart. This season acts as a reminder to refocus and reconsider the amazing truth that Jesus came and lived a perfect life; he offered himself as a sacrifice to pay the penalty for my sin, through his death on the cross, and rose again to give me new life. To ponder, question, wonder and worship.

While the rain turns to sleet, then snow outside my window right now, I'll leave you with these words to an old hymn that I've grown to love in a modern context/version. I'm unsure of the author and my search online has come up empty, but it encompasses the hope I have for own my heart this Lenten Season... To remember to worship God because he is true.

SATISFIED

All my life long I had panted
For a drink from some cool spring
That I hoped would, quench the burning
Of the Thirst I felt within

Feeding on the filth around me
Till my strength was almost gone
Longed my soul for something better
Only still to hunger on

Chorus:
Hallelujah He has Found me
The One my soul, so long has craved
Jesus Satisfies, all my longings
Through his Blood I now am saved

Poor I was and sought for riches
Something that would satisfy
But the dust I gathered round me
Only mocked my soul's sad cry

Well of water ever springing
Bread of Life so rich and Free
Untold wealth that never Faileth
My Redeemer is to me

...

HALLELUJAH HE HAS FOUND ME

THE ONE MY SOUL, SO LONG HAS CRAVED

JESUS SATISFIES, ALL MY LONGINGS

THROUGH HIS BLOOD I NOW AM SAVED!!!!

A New Reality?

My hope is that their testing proves that this is a very good idea.

http://biz.yahoo.com/rb/080123/starbucks.html?.v=4&.pf=banking-budgeting

Low Key

Tumultuous and whirlwind are two words I've used recently to describe the past month. I've been so happy this past week to have my feet firmly planted on the freezing cold Massachusetts sidewalks (perhaps more so, however, on the hardwood floors in my apartment). Yes, it's cold here today... again. BUT, it's sunny! What more can a girl ask for? I'm thankful.

I've taken the past week to catch up on my life and have not missed the office for a second. Proudly, I've refrained from email (well, maybe I sent one... but, only one!) and have stuck to a regimen of sleeping, accomplishing some very overdue items on my personal to-do list, cleaning the apartment (which I happen to love... I know that might sound crazy to some of you), seeing and calling friends, reading and catching up on my DVR. Love it.

Yet, my suitcase isn't completely unpacked. I think I'll do that today. Somewhere in my brain I think I might actually believe that I have to leave again on another trip, but nope, I should really unpack! I'm staying put for a few weeks at minimum and it is a glorious thing. I've decided that this is a good way to begin 2008.

Oh, Happy New Year! Can you believe it's 2008??? Amazing.

I don't know what I hope for life this year, but I'm excited about what God has in store. Given what the past month has brought, I'm waiting to see what the Lord has for me in and through what has happened. I do love the idea of a new year. Not because of resolutions or anything like that, but maybe because there is potential in the months ahead for something new, surprising, challenging and growing. Whatever the case, I am grateful for the way I've begun it - first a little hectic and now looking back over the past week realizing that I've done something well... I chose to rest when I knew I needed it. That is a good first step for a hopeful New Year.

A Very Merry Christmas

Leading up to Christmas this year, I found myself ever-busy with plans for our winter conference and trying to get all done before flying home to be with my family. Two weeks ago, my Dad called telling me that my maternal grandmother had passed away. Plans changed and I flew to the West Coast for her funeral. I still feel that I haven't taken adequate time to sit and reflect on this loss. Though the reality hits me in unexpected moments and I experience a mixture of emotions... Tremendous sadness and great joy.

My grandmother loved Jesus and faithfully walked with him though her years in Russia/Ukraine, in Germany, into Austria, across the world in South America and then through the remainder of her life spent in the United States. Her story is quite remarkable and maybe I'll share more about her someday. I rejoice that she is with Jesus today - what a way to celebrate his birthday! She is experiencing the LIVING hope that he came to bring humankind.

To me, it's a special Christmas. Without Jesus, what would I have to celebrate? His life represents the hope I am able to have for the future as I recognize that it's not simply about the things that I see, but the unseen... the hope of Heaven and all that comes as a result... reconciliation, forgiveness of my sin, and new life! My grandmother is experiencing this firsthand today and I rejoice in the midst of my grief that she is free from the suffering and brokenness of our world. She is with Jesus. What a very Merry Christmas!

Happy House

There are moments in my life when I realize, "I have a good life!" I wish they happened with more frequency (albeit, I am a very positive person), but sometimes I fail to realize the actual joy that exists in the midst of my routine. Tonight, I had one of those moments.

I just returned home from a friends house where we were reviewing our Christmas photo shoot pics (admittedly, a little strange to me still); walking into my apartment, I felt a surge of happiness. I don't know where it came from (well, I could, should and do acknowledge the Lord... every good and perfect gift...), but I felt peaceful and grateful. I walked into my room to change into more comfy clothes - it's cold outside and I'm still adjusting. On my way to the kitchen to make tea, I appreciated the painted walls - colors that I love and chose and painted with friends and roommates - I smiled at the living room - it's so stinkin' inviting!!! - my eyes glanced around at furniture I adore and took time to collect and well, I just felt happy!...

All of this made me think about our recently celebrated holiday - Thanksgiving. On the actual day, I awoke feeling under the weather as I had for a week or so prior. I knew in my heart that I had things I was thankful for, but somehow that day, I wasn't able to express it in the truest of senses. I think that's why tonight struck me and the urge to blog overcame me. I am just SO grateful for my life in this moment and I think that's worth writing about and celebrating.

A few weeks ago, sitting with a friend who is struggling, I remember telling her that sometimes we need other people to look into our lives and tell us what's good because at times, we aren't capable of seeing one iota of good for ourselves. Tonight, I can clearly SEE the goodness and my heart feels invigorated. The simple things that make my life mine. Remembering that there is purpose and meaning and hope and joy... I have such a good life!

Wow. Am I grateful!

My Life in Pictures

My inbox is overflowing and my brain is too full of other things to blog. That said, here's a recap of my life in recent times with the help of some pictures...


Life at Fenway is always fun... Especially when our Boston Red Sox go on to win the World Series a month later.


The Jessica's out and about in O-town during our Conference Guild meetings.


Part of my team on Spectacle Island enjoying a different perspective on the city during our Worldwide Day of Prayer.


A visit to our upstate New York teams finds us in Syracuse receiving gifts from the team there. Go Orange!

Catching up in the Rockies. Reunions these days come in the form of friends' weddings.


The groom, Alex, with groomsmen, friends and former house mates, Paul & Peter.


Two of my favorite friends!

The groom and his gorgeous bridge on their special day! Congratulations Alex & Cass!...

Sox sweep the Rockies to win the 2007 World Series. Here's some shots of the crowd on parade day. This is two blocks from my office. Loving life in Beantown.

And, here's my favorite player... Well, at least a tribute to him. Big Pappy, I want to be your friend someday!


Jason Varitek taking his own home video of the crowd.


Fans taking photos with phones & cameras. Welcome to 2007. So weird.


ARod, the people of Boston are wondering, how did you like your free taco?


Papalbaum doing his dance for the crowd. Hilarious.

A night at the Opera. Thanks for putting this together, Kim! La Boheme... Beautiful.

Two of my favorite Northeast women! Loving the opportunity to dress up and head out for a night on the town.

There you have it. Life is good. Hopefully, more soon...

Happy Thanksgiving!

First Snow of the CO Season (Well, for me anyway)

The view from the end of my parents driveway last Sunday. Covered street sign, white sky, white fields. All in October. The day before it was 70+ degrees... It was fun to be home for a little Colorado weather!