It's hard to describe my feelings after running the entire Run for the River 5K in Duluth last Saturday. Elated to the max probably describes it best. It felt so good to accomplish my goal and to think that a year ago I never could have done something like that. I finished 226th with a time of 35:56, which isn't super fast but it really doesn't matter. I wanted to run the whole thing and I did. 3.2 miles!!
There are some things that I think can be done just by shear willpower. Running, and exercising in general, is mostly mind over matter. If you can persevere through moments of breathlessness, cramps, and minor pain, you can usually do a lot more then you think. There were times (right before mile 3 to be exact) when I became convinced of my need to walk. But, I reminded myself of how disappointed I would be if I did. So I kept on.
Although determination is an admirable quality and needed to get through life's normal hardships, there are many things that pop up that are completely out of our immediate control. Relationship issues, (and lack of relationships), or health problems are just a couple of examples. You might possess the desire to change something in the problem, but yet there's something elusive which keeps the action steps out of reach. The conclusion of that part of our story is left frustratingly wide open.
There are times in our lives where we get to write certain paragraphs of our own stories. We can enter a 5K race, train for it, and accomplish the goal. There are also times where the unexpected happens, and the goal cannot be accompished no matter how much effort is put forth.
Ultimately, it is only God who writes our story, with prayer as a means of communicating to God and telling Him what is on our minds. Admittedly, prayer for me often turns into reminding Him of how I want my story written. It takes a different level of determination to pray and then rest in God's complete authorship. I definitely have some more training to do in that area.
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. ~Hebrews 12:1-3
Monday, October 30, 2006
Monday, October 23, 2006
Get fired up- only 5 more days!
This just in from race coordinator Jenny:
Hello All,
As many of you are aware (because you have already signed up) this Saturday is the RUN FOR THE RIVER 5K Race (www.runfortheriver.org). The race begins at 8, so we should probably meet there at 7:30 ish. If you haven't signed up yet, it is not too late. You can register online or at the race site!
If you are interested in carpooling, please let me know. For whoever is interested, we will probably be meeting at the Glenrose House around 7. I know - it's an early morning, BUT it will totally be worth it. After the race, Lesley, Lisa and I will be hosting a pancake breakfast for all those who participated in the race.......well, not everyone - just the ones we know, of course.
It looks like it will be a bright and brisk morning on Saturday. I hope that you'll be able to make it!
Let me know if you if you signed up, if you want to carpool, if you are going to meet us there, and if you plan on coming for breakfast.
Thanks!
Jenny
Hello All,
As many of you are aware (because you have already signed up) this Saturday is the RUN FOR THE RIVER 5K Race (www.runfortheriver.org). The race begins at 8, so we should probably meet there at 7:30 ish. If you haven't signed up yet, it is not too late. You can register online or at the race site!
If you are interested in carpooling, please let me know. For whoever is interested, we will probably be meeting at the Glenrose House around 7. I know - it's an early morning, BUT it will totally be worth it. After the race, Lesley, Lisa and I will be hosting a pancake breakfast for all those who participated in the race.......well, not everyone - just the ones we know, of course.
It looks like it will be a bright and brisk morning on Saturday. I hope that you'll be able to make it!
Let me know if you if you signed up, if you want to carpool, if you are going to meet us there, and if you plan on coming for breakfast.
Thanks!
Jenny
Sunday, October 22, 2006
It's hopefully more then just the repo committee
Living in a townhouse has brought about a new role for me which is being a part of a townhome association. I had an opportunity to meet the other members of this unique place a few weeks ago when I attend my first association meeting.
The meeting afforded some intriguing news such as how the ducks will be removed in November, although miraculously will not be harmed in the process. Also, I found out there is nothing the association can do about the ice cream truck that plays the most annoying music ever and comes through our neighborhood at least once a week.
In addition to personally hearing more about the newsworthy happenings of Spring Harbor, I also got to see my fellow Spring Harborites in action. One woman was so distraught over the duck removal that she ran out of the room with her hands over her ears and singing so that she couldn't hear the details. I think she's an animal lover.
We also got to vote on the new board members, and I had the privilege of electing my friend and coworker Kendra to the board. Kendra now has been asking me to join up and come to the board meetings and head one of the committees. I said I would think about it, as long as I didn't have to be on what I call the repo committee which goes around and nails people who haven't paid their dues. I like speaking the truth in love but that's a little much. Kendra's suggesting I help with the community newsletter or the welcoming committee, the latter involving just going around and meeting people and finding out what language they speak. I can do that. Buuuuuut I don't know we'll see.
The meeting afforded some intriguing news such as how the ducks will be removed in November, although miraculously will not be harmed in the process. Also, I found out there is nothing the association can do about the ice cream truck that plays the most annoying music ever and comes through our neighborhood at least once a week.
In addition to personally hearing more about the newsworthy happenings of Spring Harbor, I also got to see my fellow Spring Harborites in action. One woman was so distraught over the duck removal that she ran out of the room with her hands over her ears and singing so that she couldn't hear the details. I think she's an animal lover.
We also got to vote on the new board members, and I had the privilege of electing my friend and coworker Kendra to the board. Kendra now has been asking me to join up and come to the board meetings and head one of the committees. I said I would think about it, as long as I didn't have to be on what I call the repo committee which goes around and nails people who haven't paid their dues. I like speaking the truth in love but that's a little much. Kendra's suggesting I help with the community newsletter or the welcoming committee, the latter involving just going around and meeting people and finding out what language they speak. I can do that. Buuuuuut I don't know we'll see.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Interesting week
This week has proven to be quite interesting thus far.
It's been stressful at work dealing with some issues that came to a head especially Monday with a missionary I was working with, in addition to some other minor deadlines I had. When I get stressed out or think about something a lot, I tend to chew on things; mostly pen caps and occasionally my cell phone antenna. However, that day while I was on a phone call trying to get some last minute information from someone, I was chewing on my Sharpie marker. Suddenly I heard a "crack" and an ooze that tasted absolutely horrible hit my tongue. Not only was I ingesting marker but it was permanent and black- double whammie. Fortunately I was about finished with the phone call so it wasn't too long before I was able to wipe off my mouth before serious damage was done. Only the tip of my tongue was black for a while. Also, to my relief, it says right on the marker "nontoxic" so I am still alive today to blog about this story.
I also had my friend and coworker Allie cut my hair this week. She's been cutting hair on the side for quite some time. I told her I would pay her full market value and she could do whatever she wanted because it doesn't matter to me too much and it's hard to screw up curly hair. We did it in our storage room after work, which was extremely convenient until someone walked in and noticed what we were doing. Fortunately it was someone who just thought it was funny. My hair, is quite short now. I've gotten a ton of compliments and I think it looks good, but I'm still getting used to it. It's a bit on the poofy side, but Allie says it gives me personality. I can work with that.
Both of these incidents were also recorded via cell phone picture. Our HR director heard about the marker incident and came by to take a pic for "workman's comp" reasons/proof for further jokes at my expense around the office =). The person that walked in on my haircut also took a picture, and he also happens to lead my bible study on Wednesday nights, so that's circulating around as well.
I also gave out my third homeless pack to a woman who's often seen on my exit. She seemed the most grateful so far. After I gave it to her she thanked me profusely and walked away slowly, looking at the bag in wonder at all it's contents.
I never thought my life was so interesting.....
It's been stressful at work dealing with some issues that came to a head especially Monday with a missionary I was working with, in addition to some other minor deadlines I had. When I get stressed out or think about something a lot, I tend to chew on things; mostly pen caps and occasionally my cell phone antenna. However, that day while I was on a phone call trying to get some last minute information from someone, I was chewing on my Sharpie marker. Suddenly I heard a "crack" and an ooze that tasted absolutely horrible hit my tongue. Not only was I ingesting marker but it was permanent and black- double whammie. Fortunately I was about finished with the phone call so it wasn't too long before I was able to wipe off my mouth before serious damage was done. Only the tip of my tongue was black for a while. Also, to my relief, it says right on the marker "nontoxic" so I am still alive today to blog about this story.
I also had my friend and coworker Allie cut my hair this week. She's been cutting hair on the side for quite some time. I told her I would pay her full market value and she could do whatever she wanted because it doesn't matter to me too much and it's hard to screw up curly hair. We did it in our storage room after work, which was extremely convenient until someone walked in and noticed what we were doing. Fortunately it was someone who just thought it was funny. My hair, is quite short now. I've gotten a ton of compliments and I think it looks good, but I'm still getting used to it. It's a bit on the poofy side, but Allie says it gives me personality. I can work with that.
Both of these incidents were also recorded via cell phone picture. Our HR director heard about the marker incident and came by to take a pic for "workman's comp" reasons/proof for further jokes at my expense around the office =). The person that walked in on my haircut also took a picture, and he also happens to lead my bible study on Wednesday nights, so that's circulating around as well.
I also gave out my third homeless pack to a woman who's often seen on my exit. She seemed the most grateful so far. After I gave it to her she thanked me profusely and walked away slowly, looking at the bag in wonder at all it's contents.
I never thought my life was so interesting.....
Monday, October 16, 2006
What's in a pack
Ok, several people on my "My name is Jimmy" post asked me what was in a homeless pack.
First off, I will give credit to where credit is due for the idea. It's actually Christy Norwood's brainchild.
What you do is get a large gallon size baggie (I feel like I'm about to describe how my dad's makes UFO's, except the main difference is that homeless packs shouldn't be on fire or you're making them wrong) and put all kinds of things in it that you think a homeless person would like. I guess we hit the mark because both Jimmy and then Tommy last Friday were excited to get them. Here's what we put in them:
-travel size toothpaste and toothbrush
-purell wipes and hand sanitizer
-kleenex
-gift certificates for grocery stores
-high protein granola or cereal bar
-wet ones
-MARTA passes (bus/train in Hotlanta)
-phone card
-travel size first aid kit
-Bible verse
-phone numbers for homeless resource centers in Atlanta
I'm sure there are many other good items out there. Anyway, I just got a bunch of people together and asked them to bring something and help me make them. I've got about 25 of them. I keep about 4 in my car at all times. When I encounter someone while I'm driving (I only do this during the day) I just roll down my window and ask them if they would like one. I try to get their name and shake their hand and strike up a small conversation. Now Jimmy was real nice and polite but Tommy proceeded to compliment me first on my hair and then my legs so I was like..umm..but he said to take it like a compliment and I said ok and he was nice outside of that. Anyway, who knows what you'll encounter, but I've been enjoying it so far. We'll see what God does with it.
First off, I will give credit to where credit is due for the idea. It's actually Christy Norwood's brainchild.
What you do is get a large gallon size baggie (I feel like I'm about to describe how my dad's makes UFO's, except the main difference is that homeless packs shouldn't be on fire or you're making them wrong) and put all kinds of things in it that you think a homeless person would like. I guess we hit the mark because both Jimmy and then Tommy last Friday were excited to get them. Here's what we put in them:
-travel size toothpaste and toothbrush
-purell wipes and hand sanitizer
-kleenex
-gift certificates for grocery stores
-high protein granola or cereal bar
-wet ones
-MARTA passes (bus/train in Hotlanta)
-phone card
-travel size first aid kit
-Bible verse
-phone numbers for homeless resource centers in Atlanta
I'm sure there are many other good items out there. Anyway, I just got a bunch of people together and asked them to bring something and help me make them. I've got about 25 of them. I keep about 4 in my car at all times. When I encounter someone while I'm driving (I only do this during the day) I just roll down my window and ask them if they would like one. I try to get their name and shake their hand and strike up a small conversation. Now Jimmy was real nice and polite but Tommy proceeded to compliment me first on my hair and then my legs so I was like..umm..but he said to take it like a compliment and I said ok and he was nice outside of that. Anyway, who knows what you'll encounter, but I've been enjoying it so far. We'll see what God does with it.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
Thursday, October 12, 2006
ALF retreat
Last weekend we had our annual Abundant Life Fellowship (formally known as singles fellowship) retreat at Camp Mac in Alabama.
This was my sixth retreat so naturally I was initially wondering why I should go to another one. I obviously qualify to go by my marital status, but beyond that I was doubtful of what my personal gain would be.
God really worked in my heart and used the teaching by Jeff Ashby in major ways. He discussed four "F" words: foundation, form, follow, and flourish. The retreat theme was "Finding your Focus" in order to stay strong in the Lord for a lifetime.
One thing that really struck me was how naturally I allow my singleness to define me, instead of who I am in Christ as His child. I could blame this on society or whatever it is that reminds me that I am lacking something as a single person. It was refreshing and convicting to digest the truth about how in Christ I have everything and He is my foundation for what is true and what I should be doing. I lack nothing.
I'll also include here a good quote from the weekend by Henri Nouwen: "I have called you by name, from the very beginning. You are mine and I am yours. You are my Beloved, on you my favor rests. I have molded you in the depths of the earth and knitted you together in your mother's womb. I have carved you in the palms of my hands and hidden you in the shadow of my embrace. I look at you with infinite tenderness and care for you with a care more intimate than that of a mother for her child. I have counted every hair on your head and guided you at every step. Wherever you go, I go with you, and wherever you rest, I keep watch. I will give you food that will satisfy all your hunger and drink that will quench all your thirst. I will not hide my face from you. You know me as your own as I know you as my own. You belong to me."
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
His name was Jimmy
I finally got to hand out a homeless pack yesterday.
I was pulling off 85 south on the ramp to Pleasantdale Rd which leads to my house when I saw an older looking man with a sign. Of course my pack was covered by my other stuff from the day so I frantically searched with my right hand to grab it while maintaining driving in the lane.
Fortunately the light turned red because I thought I was going to have to give it to him real quick as I drove by. My window was already rolled down and he saw my bag hanging out the window. He walked slow up to my car and I said "you're welcome to have this" and handed it to him. He said, "thank you. This will help so much. God bless." His sign read "travelling to a new job, any help you can give. God bless". Pretty unique I would say.
I leaned out the window with my right hand to shake his and asked "what's your name?"
"Jimmy," he said.
"I'm Jessica," I said.
"God bless you," he said again, with much appreciation.
Jimmy, I hope you enjoy it.
I was pulling off 85 south on the ramp to Pleasantdale Rd which leads to my house when I saw an older looking man with a sign. Of course my pack was covered by my other stuff from the day so I frantically searched with my right hand to grab it while maintaining driving in the lane.
Fortunately the light turned red because I thought I was going to have to give it to him real quick as I drove by. My window was already rolled down and he saw my bag hanging out the window. He walked slow up to my car and I said "you're welcome to have this" and handed it to him. He said, "thank you. This will help so much. God bless." His sign read "travelling to a new job, any help you can give. God bless". Pretty unique I would say.
I leaned out the window with my right hand to shake his and asked "what's your name?"
"Jimmy," he said.
"I'm Jessica," I said.
"God bless you," he said again, with much appreciation.
Jimmy, I hope you enjoy it.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Ok I get the message loud and clear
I am an idiot. So you know how I blogged earlier about how 2 Peter 1:3-8 really spoke to me after this weekend.
Tuesday when I was rearranging my cube I noticed that I had already printed out 2 Peter 1:3-8 and it was posted right by my phone.
Today I noticed that these verses were already referenced right here on my blog.
Wow. Ok God..I get the point =).
Tuesday when I was rearranging my cube I noticed that I had already printed out 2 Peter 1:3-8 and it was posted right by my phone.
Today I noticed that these verses were already referenced right here on my blog.
Wow. Ok God..I get the point =).
Ch..ch...changes
Things at work have been changing a whole lot lately.
Carrell was married on Sept 23 and got back to work finally this week after crusin' around Mexico. Now she walks to work, packs her lunch in a backpack, and her husband picks her up after work to go to the gym (aka after school program). Yes, she has reverted back to elementary school. She's got it all except for recess.
Ron started work this week and so he took over Daniel's place on our team. He's definitely not like Daniel, but a good pick for us for sure. We welcomed him by eating some sweet CFA and passing down Daniel's coveted cublicle dice to him.
Allie was in Daniel's old/Ron's new cubicle, so she moved to the empty one across from me. Allie has a humungous plant that hangs into my cublicle now and blocks out the light that was illuminating my workspace. I know what it must be what it's like to live on the Amazon rain forest floor.
I have been accused lately of having a cubicle that is too "over stimulating". I'm not sure how that is possible. That's like saying a decorated rock is over stimulating. So Tuesday I rearranged it and cleaned. I still think it's pretty sweet. At least my Vikings flag is much more prominant.
Carrell was married on Sept 23 and got back to work finally this week after crusin' around Mexico. Now she walks to work, packs her lunch in a backpack, and her husband picks her up after work to go to the gym (aka after school program). Yes, she has reverted back to elementary school. She's got it all except for recess.
Ron started work this week and so he took over Daniel's place on our team. He's definitely not like Daniel, but a good pick for us for sure. We welcomed him by eating some sweet CFA and passing down Daniel's coveted cublicle dice to him.
Allie was in Daniel's old/Ron's new cubicle, so she moved to the empty one across from me. Allie has a humungous plant that hangs into my cublicle now and blocks out the light that was illuminating my workspace. I know what it must be what it's like to live on the Amazon rain forest floor.
I have been accused lately of having a cubicle that is too "over stimulating". I'm not sure how that is possible. That's like saying a decorated rock is over stimulating. So Tuesday I rearranged it and cleaned. I still think it's pretty sweet. At least my Vikings flag is much more prominant.
Pictures from Matt and Shannon's wedding
Here are some pics from the wedding!
I might be bias but it was probably the funnest wedding I've ever been too. And the fall colors were so pretty. Flying over Minnesota this time of year is amazing.
The picture of Matt holding Shannon is in front of the H2 Hummer limo they rented to take us from the church to the reception. It was SWEET.
Congrats to my bro and sister-in-law!!
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
Everything we need for life
I rode the MARTA train home after spending the weekend celebrating with my bro and sister-in-law and once thing that I always like about the train is that it's a great place just to sit back, relax and think.
I was boogie-ing out to my ipod (with earphones of course- MARTA regulation) and one thought that popped into my head was a phrase from the bible that talks about having everything you need for life and Godliness. But I couldn't remember where it was.
I had my handy pocket bible and looked up "Godliness" and found this. My thoughts mainly were reflecting on the weekend which was so much fun and delight in their new marriage but at the same time difficult emotionally in some ways. I had some good conversations with family that I hadn't seen in a while that were encouraging but also heart-wrenching to hear about what God is calling some of my family members to do.
So these passage really ministered to me there at that time and place.
Next station, Doraville.
2 Peter 1:3-8
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I was boogie-ing out to my ipod (with earphones of course- MARTA regulation) and one thought that popped into my head was a phrase from the bible that talks about having everything you need for life and Godliness. But I couldn't remember where it was.
I had my handy pocket bible and looked up "Godliness" and found this. My thoughts mainly were reflecting on the weekend which was so much fun and delight in their new marriage but at the same time difficult emotionally in some ways. I had some good conversations with family that I hadn't seen in a while that were encouraging but also heart-wrenching to hear about what God is calling some of my family members to do.
So these passage really ministered to me there at that time and place.
Next station, Doraville.
2 Peter 1:3-8
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
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