I just updated my profile on facebook (what better is there to do when you wake up 4:45 a.m., right?). I hadn't thought about doing it in advance but noticed that it displayed my work information from February 2005-present and I simply updated the end date to May 2011.
A post was then generated reading "Rebekah left her job at X (insert company name here)". It felt a little final to see it written like that, very cut and dry. I suppose it is and I truly am done after my 8-5 today; for now, until who knows when. Or what for that matter. As much as I really do love working, being part of a creative team and finding creative solutions, I think I am about to find that this isn't the end of my working. This is simply a transition into a whole new job title. One that doesn't have vacation days and bonus' that pay in dollar signs but one that grows and develops me in new, challenging and beautiful ways.
It has been a very interesting and fulfilling process sharing with some of my favorite clients that I won't be returning. It is meaningful to see the depth that I have developed over the past six years and to hear their encouragement towards stepping into the role of being at home for this season. It's also nice to know that my work has been appreciated, that I have somehow, in some small way, added value to their world in light of their finances. I never anticipated to be in the financial industry, discussing 401ks and wealth planning but I am so thankful for this time and what it has given me personally and professionally.
I kind of wonder where it will take me in the distant future, even in light of being able to share what I have learned with friends. I have found that finances and investing are a very intimidating and personal topic for so many people which means we avoid them with vigor. I would love to know that my experience could make it a little less scary for one or two of my friends to make wise stewardship decisions (insert plug to email me with any questions here).
All of that said, I'm happy to turn in my "worker bee" badge for awhile and venture into this unknown territory because it is the path I believe God has set out for me in this season. I don't know what to expect but as with anything, I hope I can take it one day at a time. Looking forward to my Friday at work, including the "farewell fiesta" my co-workers have so kindly organized. I hear there is going to be a major Mexican feast followed by ice cream cake so you know I'm there and Ryan is joining us for the festivities as well. More to come.
Showing posts with label about me. Show all posts
Showing posts with label about me. Show all posts
Friday, May 6, 2011
Friday, April 22, 2011
climbing
I thought about the difference a year makes on Tuesday when I climbed the thirty or so stairs to my now weekly doctor's appointment. Each week I approach those stairs with vigor, determined not to take the elevator until I have to. As I got to the top, huffing and puffing, I thought about the stairs I was running last year at this time.
Spring always seems to do this to me; to stop me in my tracks and make me reflect on the happenings of the past year. Maybe it is the fact that I am stuck between the slowness of winter and the anticipation of cookouts and flip flops that summer brings. Or maybe it really boils down to the fact that most of the major shaping that has taken place in my life over the past few years has been in April and May. (More thoughts on May here).
A year ago, Stacie & I were running stairs a couple mornings a week in preparation for the mountains I would climb in Israel. The year before that, we were doing the same, only in preparation for the Riverbank 25k Run. During each of those stair climbing seasons, I found sacredness in quiet mornings of driving to the beach and running in the early morning hours along trails, climbing until our legs and lungs burned.
I know I am only climbing stairs once a week now, which is exactly as often as I would prefer as this baby continues to take shape and take up what feels like every inch of me. However, I still have that same sense of quiet preparation taking place this month for the climb to come. In a physical sense, for the delivery of this little life and the joyful moments of meeting him or her and in a deeper sense as our life is shifting from "we" to "three". In my experience, sometimes the climb is really tough, excruciating in fact but the view from the top always makes it worth while.
A few of my favorite post-climb views:
Spring always seems to do this to me; to stop me in my tracks and make me reflect on the happenings of the past year. Maybe it is the fact that I am stuck between the slowness of winter and the anticipation of cookouts and flip flops that summer brings. Or maybe it really boils down to the fact that most of the major shaping that has taken place in my life over the past few years has been in April and May. (More thoughts on May here).
A year ago, Stacie & I were running stairs a couple mornings a week in preparation for the mountains I would climb in Israel. The year before that, we were doing the same, only in preparation for the Riverbank 25k Run. During each of those stair climbing seasons, I found sacredness in quiet mornings of driving to the beach and running in the early morning hours along trails, climbing until our legs and lungs burned.
I know I am only climbing stairs once a week now, which is exactly as often as I would prefer as this baby continues to take shape and take up what feels like every inch of me. However, I still have that same sense of quiet preparation taking place this month for the climb to come. In a physical sense, for the delivery of this little life and the joyful moments of meeting him or her and in a deeper sense as our life is shifting from "we" to "three". In my experience, sometimes the climb is really tough, excruciating in fact but the view from the top always makes it worth while.
A few of my favorite post-climb views:
Saturday, April 16, 2011
too busy to blog
What a week. I can tell this baby is growing by leaps and bounds these days because it seems all of my extra energies seem to be devoted to that effort and by the end of the day, I can't wait to see my bed. Even if that means 9:30 and macaroni for dinner because it is quick and sounds good.
This week I thought several times about the fact that I was too busy or to blessed to blog. Meaning that between work, meeting with students I love and the oh-so-sweet shower that my co-workers threw me, I didn't have much time to breathe in between. I have been thinking a lot about this transition, from what I know now about being an employee and part of a team to the role I am about to step into.
I haven't written really about it yet and some days am surprised myself how the next stage for me is playing out. All of that said, I have no doubt that the moment I begin life as a mom, I will be so thankful for the opportunity to be at home with my little one. It has been an interesting journey for me, from thinking I would work part-time to realizing that with all of the other changes going on in our world this fall and the desire I have to find balance in all of it, the best thing for we three (four with Toby in there) is for me to be at home.
The next month will be bittersweet for me because I love my job, the team I have been a part of for the past six years and the clients that we serve. I also know that once we make the move to Grand Rapids (Lord willing) I will be so glad I don't have to figure out how to balance childcare and driving and Ryan being at school. I don't want to miss in all of this that it is a priveledge and a blessing to find myself in this role and know that God knows so much more about the next few years than I do. I'm excited and a little nervous, hopeful and dreaming about the days.
Our due date is one month from today and according to the doctor, this little one isn't coming any time soon. We took a poll this week and my prediction is that we will meet he or she (still not telling names!) on May 22nd, that it will be a boy and that he will weigh over 8 lbs. Can't wait to see how close or how far off I am.
In house news, I am trying to be brave, to trust the plan and prepare for another open house. I think this is where the rubber meets the road and it is a chance to trust God but sometimes I have to fight my emotions that seem stronger than what I know is true. Add hormones in there and you really have something to talk about. Ryan has been so steady for me right now and I am really glad to know we are doing all of this together, moving toward what we know God is leading us in, whatever that looks like.
I did notice today that the tulips that always surprise me are popping up in the yard and every year, they are a reminder of God's faithfulness. Spring always comes and it always reassures me to have that reminder. One day at a time!
This week I thought several times about the fact that I was too busy or to blessed to blog. Meaning that between work, meeting with students I love and the oh-so-sweet shower that my co-workers threw me, I didn't have much time to breathe in between. I have been thinking a lot about this transition, from what I know now about being an employee and part of a team to the role I am about to step into.
I haven't written really about it yet and some days am surprised myself how the next stage for me is playing out. All of that said, I have no doubt that the moment I begin life as a mom, I will be so thankful for the opportunity to be at home with my little one. It has been an interesting journey for me, from thinking I would work part-time to realizing that with all of the other changes going on in our world this fall and the desire I have to find balance in all of it, the best thing for we three (four with Toby in there) is for me to be at home.
The next month will be bittersweet for me because I love my job, the team I have been a part of for the past six years and the clients that we serve. I also know that once we make the move to Grand Rapids (Lord willing) I will be so glad I don't have to figure out how to balance childcare and driving and Ryan being at school. I don't want to miss in all of this that it is a priveledge and a blessing to find myself in this role and know that God knows so much more about the next few years than I do. I'm excited and a little nervous, hopeful and dreaming about the days.
Our due date is one month from today and according to the doctor, this little one isn't coming any time soon. We took a poll this week and my prediction is that we will meet he or she (still not telling names!) on May 22nd, that it will be a boy and that he will weigh over 8 lbs. Can't wait to see how close or how far off I am.
In house news, I am trying to be brave, to trust the plan and prepare for another open house. I think this is where the rubber meets the road and it is a chance to trust God but sometimes I have to fight my emotions that seem stronger than what I know is true. Add hormones in there and you really have something to talk about. Ryan has been so steady for me right now and I am really glad to know we are doing all of this together, moving toward what we know God is leading us in, whatever that looks like.
I did notice today that the tulips that always surprise me are popping up in the yard and every year, they are a reminder of God's faithfulness. Spring always comes and it always reassures me to have that reminder. One day at a time!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
loving lately: spring edition
The fact that Ryan posted this video on his blog just makes me laugh. Mostly because it is 100% true. Make sure you watch to the end for the best part.
If you like it then you should have put a bird on it. Or maybe not?
Also loving lately:
Better Oats brand apple & cinnamon instant oatmeal. Maybe it is the cute individual packaging or the fact that once you pour the oatmeal, the package can be used as a cup for the water with a fill line but these are the ticket to easy mornings!
This book, which has by far been my favorite that I have read during my pregnancy. It is funny, helpful and honest, sharing perspective on how first time parents can learn a lot from those who have done this before. I'm thinking it would be a great addition to a gift for any first time parents. Find it on Amazon here
Bath & Body Works Summer Lemon Vanilla lip gloss. I am in no way a lip gloss snob and usually I am ok with off-brand chapstick. Although, I did have a pretty mean lipsmackers collection in high school. Either way, this stuff is the ticket and I may just have to see if I can stock up at the outlet today on our annual girl's day out shopping trip!
Also loving Hulu for making available episodes of the shows I love like Glee, Top Chef All*Stars* and my FAVORITE show, Parenthood.
If you like it then you should have put a bird on it. Or maybe not?
Also loving lately:
Better Oats brand apple & cinnamon instant oatmeal. Maybe it is the cute individual packaging or the fact that once you pour the oatmeal, the package can be used as a cup for the water with a fill line but these are the ticket to easy mornings!
This book, which has by far been my favorite that I have read during my pregnancy. It is funny, helpful and honest, sharing perspective on how first time parents can learn a lot from those who have done this before. I'm thinking it would be a great addition to a gift for any first time parents. Find it on Amazon here
Bath & Body Works Summer Lemon Vanilla lip gloss. I am in no way a lip gloss snob and usually I am ok with off-brand chapstick. Although, I did have a pretty mean lipsmackers collection in high school. Either way, this stuff is the ticket and I may just have to see if I can stock up at the outlet today on our annual girl's day out shopping trip!
Also loving Hulu for making available episodes of the shows I love like Glee, Top Chef All*Stars* and my FAVORITE show, Parenthood.
Monday, March 21, 2011
spring things
We officially marked the start of spring with our first 2011 run to Captain Sundae's. And when I say run, I mean we got in our car and drove .5 miles to the ice cream shop. We did however talk a walk around the block an hour later to enjoy the light left in the day, even at 8 p.m.
I also busted out a new pair of flats, which to me always marks the changing of seasons and feeling a bit more like myself to be honest. I got them last week at Meijer, for $12.99, jealous? I know some people won't buy their shoes at the same place they buy their groceries but for me, it works. In my defense, they are black patent leather and quite cute.
This time of year always reminds me of spring at TU and hanging out on the front lawn, otherwise known as Olson Beach with my bffs. And as far as the feeling like myself in flats part, I think I am just most comfortable without heels. I like them, think they are pretty but just plain prefer to be level with the ground. It seems like spring may be here to stay and I am loving it!
I also busted out a new pair of flats, which to me always marks the changing of seasons and feeling a bit more like myself to be honest. I got them last week at Meijer, for $12.99, jealous? I know some people won't buy their shoes at the same place they buy their groceries but for me, it works. In my defense, they are black patent leather and quite cute.
This time of year always reminds me of spring at TU and hanging out on the front lawn, otherwise known as Olson Beach with my bffs. And as far as the feeling like myself in flats part, I think I am just most comfortable without heels. I like them, think they are pretty but just plain prefer to be level with the ground. It seems like spring may be here to stay and I am loving it!
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
right now
Words are a snapshot of where are in time which is why I love writing and reading other's daily reflections and musings. Ashley's list yesterday made me smile and I thought it would be encouraging to do one of my own. Currently I am:
Loving:
-feeling this baby move so regularly.
-taking each day as it comes.
-seeing grass poke through the snow.
-the thought that I have a summer wardrobe waiting for me that includes lots of flowing tops and not necessarily (although allowed) elastic waistbands.
Not Loving:
-waking up at all kinds of odd hours and pretty consistently from 3-5 a.m.
-not knowing how to make a decision in front of us.
Accomplishing:
-cleaning out every nook and cranny in our house, using facebook and craigslist to list items and taking the rest to goodwill.
-organizing pictures and files on my computer (nesting has taken over my life!)
-walking through some really great stuff that we learned in our discipleship class with Katie.
Preparing:
-to be a mom!
-to list our house for sale as we transition to Grand Rapids for Ryan to start seminary. Which creates a whole additional list of preparing.
-for our maternity pics in a few weeks with Christy by scouring our closets and the sale racks at Motherhood.
-to transition out of my role at Evergreen at the end of April.
Forgetting:
-how I have always felt about control and planning in exchange for God's bigger plan.
Reading:
-Babywise
-the Old Testament, slowly but surely.
Believing:
That God has led our journey this far and will continue to do the same in the days to come.
Loving:
-feeling this baby move so regularly.
-taking each day as it comes.
-seeing grass poke through the snow.
-the thought that I have a summer wardrobe waiting for me that includes lots of flowing tops and not necessarily (although allowed) elastic waistbands.
Not Loving:
-waking up at all kinds of odd hours and pretty consistently from 3-5 a.m.
-not knowing how to make a decision in front of us.
Accomplishing:
-cleaning out every nook and cranny in our house, using facebook and craigslist to list items and taking the rest to goodwill.
-organizing pictures and files on my computer (nesting has taken over my life!)
-walking through some really great stuff that we learned in our discipleship class with Katie.
Preparing:
-to be a mom!
-to list our house for sale as we transition to Grand Rapids for Ryan to start seminary. Which creates a whole additional list of preparing.
-for our maternity pics in a few weeks with Christy by scouring our closets and the sale racks at Motherhood.
-to transition out of my role at Evergreen at the end of April.
Forgetting:
-how I have always felt about control and planning in exchange for God's bigger plan.
Reading:
-Babywise
-the Old Testament, slowly but surely.
Believing:
That God has led our journey this far and will continue to do the same in the days to come.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
on wanting a van.
There are certain ways pregnancy seems to prepare you for being a mom. Like the fact that you don't know just how much sleep you will get and you find yourself awake for two hours in the middle of the night. Case and point, last night from 11:30-1:30. No good reason. At least with a baby there is a reason. It also prepares you in advance by the fact that carrying snacks in your handbag becomes a regular thing during these nine months, something that I have to believe comes in handy when there is a kiddo in tow.
However, nothing prepares you for a minivan. Some of us were just born wanting to drive one. Yes, I confess, any residual "cool" factor I have left might just go out the window but I love driving a van. I could attribute it to the fact that I learned to drive with a van or it could be that I just feel at home in one. All I know is that as I drive high-schoolers around on afternoons like today, I anticipate the days when my own kids will be the ones carrying on the conversations about their teachers, their days and the latest love interest. I am not naive to the fact that some days they will be too cool for me or that these conversations take place in hybrid vehicles, cars or trucks. But for now, I dream of a van.
For a little more inspiration on the swagger wagon, you can always throw it back to this hit from last spring. Thank you Toyota for putting my dream to music.
However, nothing prepares you for a minivan. Some of us were just born wanting to drive one. Yes, I confess, any residual "cool" factor I have left might just go out the window but I love driving a van. I could attribute it to the fact that I learned to drive with a van or it could be that I just feel at home in one. All I know is that as I drive high-schoolers around on afternoons like today, I anticipate the days when my own kids will be the ones carrying on the conversations about their teachers, their days and the latest love interest. I am not naive to the fact that some days they will be too cool for me or that these conversations take place in hybrid vehicles, cars or trucks. But for now, I dream of a van.
For a little more inspiration on the swagger wagon, you can always throw it back to this hit from last spring. Thank you Toyota for putting my dream to music.
Friday, February 18, 2011
spring in the air.
Not sure where the past week went but happy that it included increasing amounts of sunshine. The changing weather and the calendar made me realize that we are on the verge of springtime. The season in which we will have a baby seemed so far out when we heard the little heartbeat for the first time this fall and now here we are, on the edge of it. I got so excited realizing on Wednesday that our due date is only three months away. Which in my work life translates to one quarter and we know how fast 1Q 2010 is going.
Enough of the math, all I know is that amidst the many changes taking place, I am loving sharing this time with Ryan and dreaming about the next season. We have officially decided (or more like God decided for us), that he will be going to Calvin Seminary in the fall which is a big shift from our original thoughts and plans of him attending school in Holland. Somehow, within a matter of two months the plan has been re-routed and the fact that we have so much unity about it makes all of these unknowns bearable, even worth it. We are excited to see all of it play out and trying to focus on the next right thing rather than knowing where all of the pieces fall. Someone wise told Ryan last week that sometimes you have to throw all of the pieces up in the air and ask God to fit them together like a puzzle for whatever He has for you. I thought that was a good analogy and it has given me comfort and even excitement for this season which is VERY unlike me. In fact, I have had probably five people tell me how unlike me it is and I have to laugh because I thought I hid my control freak nature a little better than I had apparently.
So the next few months will include more nesting, more questions, upcoming showers which I am so excited about and watching where these puzzle pieces fall. One more thing that I love, which came at the perfect time, is sharing my creative friends & their ventures. Remember Maggie's cute little store in Nashville? Well we just got a new children's consignment boutique in our neck of the woods, owned by my friend Kristi & her sister. I met Kristi last spring on our Israel trip and this girl is as shining and sparkling on the inside as she is on the outside.
I have realized that life on a seminary budget may look a little different and love the option of second hand things that look like new. Their store is called Little Posh, cute, I know, and I am hoping to get out there in the next few weeks. Even dreaming about doing a little "girl's night out" shopping event there sometime this spring...more to come but for now, check them out here. Happy Friday and enjoy the sunshine!
Enough of the math, all I know is that amidst the many changes taking place, I am loving sharing this time with Ryan and dreaming about the next season. We have officially decided (or more like God decided for us), that he will be going to Calvin Seminary in the fall which is a big shift from our original thoughts and plans of him attending school in Holland. Somehow, within a matter of two months the plan has been re-routed and the fact that we have so much unity about it makes all of these unknowns bearable, even worth it. We are excited to see all of it play out and trying to focus on the next right thing rather than knowing where all of the pieces fall. Someone wise told Ryan last week that sometimes you have to throw all of the pieces up in the air and ask God to fit them together like a puzzle for whatever He has for you. I thought that was a good analogy and it has given me comfort and even excitement for this season which is VERY unlike me. In fact, I have had probably five people tell me how unlike me it is and I have to laugh because I thought I hid my control freak nature a little better than I had apparently.
So the next few months will include more nesting, more questions, upcoming showers which I am so excited about and watching where these puzzle pieces fall. One more thing that I love, which came at the perfect time, is sharing my creative friends & their ventures. Remember Maggie's cute little store in Nashville? Well we just got a new children's consignment boutique in our neck of the woods, owned by my friend Kristi & her sister. I met Kristi last spring on our Israel trip and this girl is as shining and sparkling on the inside as she is on the outside.
I have realized that life on a seminary budget may look a little different and love the option of second hand things that look like new. Their store is called Little Posh, cute, I know, and I am hoping to get out there in the next few weeks. Even dreaming about doing a little "girl's night out" shopping event there sometime this spring...more to come but for now, check them out here. Happy Friday and enjoy the sunshine!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
loving lately: December edition
In no particular order:
1. Subway! toasted? why of course!
2. the fact that the holiday season is officially under way with tomorrow kicking off a stream of holiday parties including:
*our annual client event which is always hard to believe we get paid to plan because it makes life at work so much fun. For example, today I designed menus and nametags for the big day tomorrow at the fancy JW Marriott in Grand Rapids. What to wear?!
*next week's cookie exchange with Amber
at her mom-in-laws, I continue to love connecting with her and am thankful that
friendships do transcend the electronic world
3. the snowy nights now that my tree is all set up
4. using the crockpot to make easy meals, tonight it was simple with these ingredients:
1. chicken
2. one bottle of BBQ sauce, Sweet Baby Ray's of course
3. a little onion salt--second in line to real onion but you use what you have
*let all ingredients cook all day, shred the meat and you have so many options!
5. looking forward to hearing the baby's heartbeat again on Friday! 4 months already and feeling so great
6. OFFICIALLY deciding as a couple that we are not going to find out at our 20 week ultrasound what we are having! I surprise even myself sometimes but the more I have thought about it, the more excited I am to have it be a mystery until this little one's b-day!
7. Christmas cards!! I love any mail that breaks up the usual junk and bills routine that I go through when I pick up the mail. I used Groupon to score a great deal for our first batch of cards with pictures and I just got an email that those are on their way to me. I can't wait to see them and am conflicted a bit because for the past 2 years I have also written a Christmas letter and just included a pic in it. I may have to upgrade the whole thing this year and do both!
what are you loving lately now that we are officially in December?
1. Subway! toasted? why of course!
2. the fact that the holiday season is officially under way with tomorrow kicking off a stream of holiday parties including:
*our annual client event which is always hard to believe we get paid to plan because it makes life at work so much fun. For example, today I designed menus and nametags for the big day tomorrow at the fancy JW Marriott in Grand Rapids. What to wear?!
*next week's cookie exchange with Amber
at her mom-in-laws, I continue to love connecting with her and am thankful that
friendships do transcend the electronic world
3. the snowy nights now that my tree is all set up
4. using the crockpot to make easy meals, tonight it was simple with these ingredients:
1. chicken
2. one bottle of BBQ sauce, Sweet Baby Ray's of course
3. a little onion salt--second in line to real onion but you use what you have
*let all ingredients cook all day, shred the meat and you have so many options!
5. looking forward to hearing the baby's heartbeat again on Friday! 4 months already and feeling so great
6. OFFICIALLY deciding as a couple that we are not going to find out at our 20 week ultrasound what we are having! I surprise even myself sometimes but the more I have thought about it, the more excited I am to have it be a mystery until this little one's b-day!
7. Christmas cards!! I love any mail that breaks up the usual junk and bills routine that I go through when I pick up the mail. I used Groupon to score a great deal for our first batch of cards with pictures and I just got an email that those are on their way to me. I can't wait to see them and am conflicted a bit because for the past 2 years I have also written a Christmas letter and just included a pic in it. I may have to upgrade the whole thing this year and do both!
what are you loving lately now that we are officially in December?
Thursday, October 28, 2010
please, read this
In my continued voracious appetite for words as of late, I came across a book worthy of attention that I wanted to share:
"The Help" by Kathryn Stockett was a wonderful picture into southern life in a different time, that of women having full-time house help and the relationships between those women and those who truly served them with their lives. My eyes were opened not only to the lifestyle, the inequalities and the trials, but also the joys and the gladness shared. It was an offering of thought that maybe our human experiences are closer than we think in some ways. I ate up every one of the 464 pages in a matter of 5 short days. I know, this means I didn't do much else besides sleep, work and eat in those days but it was that good.
I have believed for a long time that words are important and have taken a sabbatical from creating my own words, something that re-reading "Bittersweet" before Monday's event with Shauna Niequist has reminded me is vital to my lifeblood, even if just for my own personal expression. Something inside me opens up when I read good words, whether it be on blogs, on page or in God's word. So I am committing to diving back into my own words on paper, giving them attention again and seeing where the pen takes me.
What words have you read lately that mean something to you?
"The Help" by Kathryn Stockett was a wonderful picture into southern life in a different time, that of women having full-time house help and the relationships between those women and those who truly served them with their lives. My eyes were opened not only to the lifestyle, the inequalities and the trials, but also the joys and the gladness shared. It was an offering of thought that maybe our human experiences are closer than we think in some ways. I ate up every one of the 464 pages in a matter of 5 short days. I know, this means I didn't do much else besides sleep, work and eat in those days but it was that good.
I have believed for a long time that words are important and have taken a sabbatical from creating my own words, something that re-reading "Bittersweet" before Monday's event with Shauna Niequist has reminded me is vital to my lifeblood, even if just for my own personal expression. Something inside me opens up when I read good words, whether it be on blogs, on page or in God's word. So I am committing to diving back into my own words on paper, giving them attention again and seeing where the pen takes me.
What words have you read lately that mean something to you?
Thursday, August 19, 2010
a little of this and that
Thanks to Miss Mandii, this little blogger award will break my blogging hiatus. With this award, the commissioning is to write 7 little bits of info. Without further ado:
1) When I was in high school, my dream was to write for Women's Sports and Fitness magazine...sadly that publication was cancelled when I was 17 and it took me until I was 22 to get rid of my archived copies. Now I would love to blog for michigan.org as a guest travel blogger. love me some Michigan!
2) I rode a tandem bike for the first time this week and it was way harder than it looks; I will definitely be sharing more thoughts about that in the near future on here.
3) I love nothing more than an old home. I'm not sure I will ever own anything built before 1950-- although the idea of a condo with built in landscaping does sound nice.
4) This Saturday I will attend my 27th Danish Festival- that's right, I have been going every year since I was born as a family tradition that includes a 2.5 hour parade and lots of candy. that's for kids of course.
5) I am almost late everywhere I go. Just close enough to late to be stressed and under pressure but not enough to miss anything. Not a good habit but true.
6) Shorts are my least favorite thing to wear and I just found a pair, maybe the first, that I actually like a lot for $12 from JcPenny.
7. I would love to go to Egypt one day. I never thought those words would come from my mouth but after our time in Israel I am deeply intrigued by the story and places of Egypt. Clarification, this doesn't replace my desire to visit the blue and white places of Santorini, Greece. just for the record.
As part of this blogger award, I get the joy of passing it on to two more friends. So Bethany and Amber...you're up next!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
three about me
I saw this list online this weekend and thought it was WAY fun :)
3 names I go by:
Rebekah/Bekah
Beckish
Beks
3 places I have been (or 3 places that have been influential in my life):
Kenya
India
Israel
3 favorite drinks:
Crystal Light Raspberry iced tea
Diet Coke
Water
3 jobs I have had:
Cone World ice cream server (5 years baby!)
Non-profit consultant
High School Youth group assistant
3 TV shows I watch:
LOST
Arrested Development
The Parenthood
3 places I would like to visit:
Seattle
New York City--I went once in high school but want to go back with Ryan
Texas
3 favorite retro TV shows:
Dawson's Creek
Felicity
Blossom
3 places I have lived:
Grandville, MI
Upland, IN
Zeeland, MI
3 favorite dishes:
a great pasta with fresh veggies and chicken in a light sauce
Carabba's chicken marsala with smashed potatoes...mmm
burgers on the grill in the summer
3 things I am looking forward to:
Hilton Head in September
enjoying the summer with Ryan around home
having a yard that I feel more pride in. a work in progress
3 names I go by:
Rebekah/Bekah
Beckish
Beks
3 places I have been (or 3 places that have been influential in my life):
Kenya
India
Israel
3 favorite drinks:
Crystal Light Raspberry iced tea
Diet Coke
Water
3 jobs I have had:
Cone World ice cream server (5 years baby!)
Non-profit consultant
High School Youth group assistant
3 TV shows I watch:
LOST
Arrested Development
The Parenthood
3 places I would like to visit:
Seattle
New York City--I went once in high school but want to go back with Ryan
Texas
3 favorite retro TV shows:
Dawson's Creek
Felicity
Blossom
3 places I have lived:
Grandville, MI
Upland, IN
Zeeland, MI
3 favorite dishes:
a great pasta with fresh veggies and chicken in a light sauce
Carabba's chicken marsala with smashed potatoes...mmm
burgers on the grill in the summer
3 things I am looking forward to:
Hilton Head in September
enjoying the summer with Ryan around home
having a yard that I feel more pride in. a work in progress
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
confessions: part 3
1. I may have worn a version of the same outfit 3 times in the past 4 days.
Day 1: (youth group girl's night) black tank, white cardigan, fun new headband (as seen below), scarf
Day 2: (church & dinner with senior girls @ Olive Garden) white tank, white cardigan, headband, scarf, jeans
Day 3: (work) white v-neck top, white cardigan, no headband, scarf, black pants
*the piece that tied it all together:
2. I REALLY wish I knew html code and could do very cool design stuff
3. I hate going to the bank. Not sure why because the tellers are really nice.
4. I made meatballs and potato wedges last night for dinner. Yup. Ryan said they were a combo that might produce a gut ache. At least they were Turkey meatballs...
5. I have stayed up last the last 2 nights reading under the covers like a junior high girl finishing a new book that just came in the mail on Saturday . "I will carry you: The sacred dance of grief and joy" by Angie Smith. Pre-ordered months ago on Amazon and worth every second of the wait.
I love what surprises come out every time I lighten my load...what's on your plate today?
Day 1: (youth group girl's night) black tank, white cardigan, fun new headband (as seen below), scarf
Day 2: (church & dinner with senior girls @ Olive Garden) white tank, white cardigan, headband, scarf, jeans
Day 3: (work) white v-neck top, white cardigan, no headband, scarf, black pants
*the piece that tied it all together:
2. I REALLY wish I knew html code and could do very cool design stuff
3. I hate going to the bank. Not sure why because the tellers are really nice.
4. I made meatballs and potato wedges last night for dinner. Yup. Ryan said they were a combo that might produce a gut ache. At least they were Turkey meatballs...
5. I have stayed up last the last 2 nights reading under the covers like a junior high girl finishing a new book that just came in the mail on Saturday . "I will carry you: The sacred dance of grief and joy" by Angie Smith. Pre-ordered months ago on Amazon and worth every second of the wait.
I love what surprises come out every time I lighten my load...what's on your plate today?
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
confessions
confession #1 today I am cleaning my shower for the first time in a long time. It's so bad that I won't tell you how long.
confession #2 I wait in long grocery lines to read magazines
confession #3 I want a mini van something fierce. yes. it's true. but Ryan says not until we have multiple children and with only a dog so far, I think I have to wait awhile. I learned to drive in a van and have always loved the space and comfort. No more need to justify that one, that is why it is a confession I guess.
I feel so much better. What do you need to get off your chest today?
confession #2 I wait in long grocery lines to read magazines
confession #3 I want a mini van something fierce. yes. it's true. but Ryan says not until we have multiple children and with only a dog so far, I think I have to wait awhile. I learned to drive in a van and have always loved the space and comfort. No more need to justify that one, that is why it is a confession I guess.
I feel so much better. What do you need to get off your chest today?
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
I had a million dollars
I'd give gifts.
A stark realization this weekend...I think my love language and the love language I express towards others may vary....all you experts out there, is this even possible?!
I really feel so loved when someone does something kind for me (acts of service) yet I really enjoy giving gifts to those I love. You can take a quiz here if you want to know more about your love language.
On a deeper love, part of why I love giving gifts is that they mark celebrations. I have lots of projects in the work right now for Mother's Day gifts (to be given @ Easter because we will be gone over Mother's Day), baby gifts-- one for my friend Sarah who delivered her second daughter Avery this morning, and this past weekend it was a little housewarming gift for these two as they begin life in their beautiful new home in Chicago:
What celebration would be complete with a trip to Target, late night ice cream and a movie, worshipping together...and last but not least, a delicious brunch at Glenn's Diner?
Celebrate what you want to see more of. --Thomas J. Peters
A stark realization this weekend...I think my love language and the love language I express towards others may vary....all you experts out there, is this even possible?!
I really feel so loved when someone does something kind for me (acts of service) yet I really enjoy giving gifts to those I love. You can take a quiz here if you want to know more about your love language.
On a deeper love, part of why I love giving gifts is that they mark celebrations. I have lots of projects in the work right now for Mother's Day gifts (to be given @ Easter because we will be gone over Mother's Day), baby gifts-- one for my friend Sarah who delivered her second daughter Avery this morning, and this past weekend it was a little housewarming gift for these two as they begin life in their beautiful new home in Chicago:
What celebration would be complete with a trip to Target, late night ice cream and a movie, worshipping together...and last but not least, a delicious brunch at Glenn's Diner?
Celebrate what you want to see more of. --Thomas J. Peters
Saturday, March 13, 2010
a new take on mornings
I love mornings. Why? Because they are MINE. Now before we start addressing what sounds like a control issue with the a.m. hours, allow me to explain. I used to love both mornings and evenings but the scale has tipped to the early hours because of the quiet and calm they provide.
There are no phone calls before a certain hour, no places you are expected to be and the time is all yours to do with it what you please. Which for me is shuffling around the kitchen in my pjs, emptying the dishwasher and making myself eggs. Sitting on the couch and doing absolutely nothing. Whatever I want to do.
I have found that if I start my morning right, the rest of my day just feels better. As I think about, the beginning of my affection goes back to my high school days. Writing in the margins of this Bible: (did anyone else have the Teen Study Bible?!--very popular in the late 90's):
I also secretly love day trips when you have to meet early because it always merits a stop for a latte and early morning music and conversation. Or just quiet if the other people are not so into mornings as you are, insert hubby into that category. I may not have convinced you yet but thought I owed to mornings to give it a try.
There are no phone calls before a certain hour, no places you are expected to be and the time is all yours to do with it what you please. Which for me is shuffling around the kitchen in my pjs, emptying the dishwasher and making myself eggs. Sitting on the couch and doing absolutely nothing. Whatever I want to do.
I have found that if I start my morning right, the rest of my day just feels better. As I think about, the beginning of my affection goes back to my high school days. Writing in the margins of this Bible: (did anyone else have the Teen Study Bible?!--very popular in the late 90's):
I also secretly love day trips when you have to meet early because it always merits a stop for a latte and early morning music and conversation. Or just quiet if the other people are not so into mornings as you are, insert hubby into that category. I may not have convinced you yet but thought I owed to mornings to give it a try.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
coffee snobbery
Ahh... nothing like a cup of really good coffee. Good enough that I don't need creamer or any sugar; so smooth it just slides down. I have grown to have an emotional attachment with coffee, where historically stood only a needs-based relationship, "I need to wake up, therefore, I need to drink coffee" has developed into mutual embrace. I love coffee and it makes me happy.
I thought about this on my morning run, a new "old" routine that I am trying to reinstate into my life as I attempt to shake my body into a higher metabolism. I thought about the dark whole beans from Ferris Coffee & Nut that were awaiting my return, only to be ground into submission for liquid bliss. I love that this current coffee love is also roasted and distributed locally, here in West Michigan.
Here is where the snobbery steps in. We tried to buy one of those big economy size containers of ground coffee at the grocery store, the full bodied blend with a screw on lid and really put our hearts into trying it for the sake of reducing our budget (along with shopping at Save-a-Lot, Dollar General & Aldi's, all of which have been VERY successful endeavors). But a few mornings into it, we both admitted that the generic brand brew just wasn't cutting into it. I didn't mean to become a coffee snob, a "mean girl" in the beverage world. It just happened and I don't want to go back.
I thought about this on my morning run, a new "old" routine that I am trying to reinstate into my life as I attempt to shake my body into a higher metabolism. I thought about the dark whole beans from Ferris Coffee & Nut that were awaiting my return, only to be ground into submission for liquid bliss. I love that this current coffee love is also roasted and distributed locally, here in West Michigan.
Here is where the snobbery steps in. We tried to buy one of those big economy size containers of ground coffee at the grocery store, the full bodied blend with a screw on lid and really put our hearts into trying it for the sake of reducing our budget (along with shopping at Save-a-Lot, Dollar General & Aldi's, all of which have been VERY successful endeavors). But a few mornings into it, we both admitted that the generic brand brew just wasn't cutting into it. I didn't mean to become a coffee snob, a "mean girl" in the beverage world. It just happened and I don't want to go back.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
i want to light candles
My brother got me these beautiful chocolate brown pine cone candles from Pottery Barn for Christmas. Pottery Barn, the place I always want to walk through just to run my hands over the beautiful fabrics and pick up the candles and dream about how I would fill the shadow boxes. But what usually happens is that I walk out empty handed, feeling a little bit covetous. Truth.
So when I found the perfect place for them, one on my bookshelf and one on the side table next to the chaise where I do most of my reading & writing, I had a decision to make. To light or not to light. And I decided that even though these perfectly crafted little pine cones could stay in tact unlit, they are to be enjoyed and not hoarded. To enjoy things like candles and creativity and even deeper, relationships, and trust, sometimes I have to throw perfection out the window and simply allow things to be fluid and even messy.
I want to light candles and enjoy their warmth, smiling as I think about what a personal gift they were and how much more I will enjoy them lit.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
my resolve: to do the hard things
So here is my version of this new year's resolution. I want to do the hard things. These things are not large and grand like training for an Ironman or reading a book a week (truly hard things). I mean things like going to bed at a decent hour and calling friends to connect when I start to hermit myself. Things like letting my counter stack up with a mess of items in order to sit down with my hubby and truly LISTEN to what he has to say to me and prioritizing reading my Bible over updating my blog. Somehow the "easy" things become the hard things to me and rather than make big steps, I am choosing to make little steps towards my resolve.
I am also resolving to NOT run the Riverbank Run again because I believe that life long goal was achieved in 2009 and my knees have asked me to not put that on the list again. Speaking of the hard things, it is now 11:11 p.m. and here is my chance to put the plan into action.
I WILL be carving out some time this weekend however to sit down and write the "Passion" post to share some of the things that God really impressed upon me in our time in Atlanta last week. Including some incredible music that I have never been exposed to before like Christy Nockels...where have I been?! Here is a little something until then...
I am also resolving to NOT run the Riverbank Run again because I believe that life long goal was achieved in 2009 and my knees have asked me to not put that on the list again. Speaking of the hard things, it is now 11:11 p.m. and here is my chance to put the plan into action.
I WILL be carving out some time this weekend however to sit down and write the "Passion" post to share some of the things that God really impressed upon me in our time in Atlanta last week. Including some incredible music that I have never been exposed to before like Christy Nockels...where have I been?! Here is a little something until then...
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Thoughts on Having a Party
The candles are lit, the pie is baking in the oven, the floor still needs to be swept and the junk hidden from the kitchen counter. You all know that chaos that occurs in the precious 45 minutes before a party begins when all of those little “to do’s” need to be done NOW. I have a love/hate relationship with that part of party planning but really more of a love.
We had a dinner party (that sounds so grown up and I love saying it) for our small group at our house Thursday night and I realized how good it felt to entertain. I have taken a break from it in the past 6 months or so and enjoyed every part from choosing the candles and place settings to stacking the dishes and soaking the pans. I truly meant it when people were starting to clean and I told them not to worry about it because I wanted us all to have time to just sit and talk! There was a little post party regret, admittedly when it took me until this morning to get on top of those dishes.
But I still think it was worth it, to have friends around our table laughing and telling stories. And I think entertaining is like anything else, the more you do it, the more at home you feel doing it. I have learned that I enjoy the party a lot more if I make it easy on myself with a simple menu and allowing others to bring things which saves me time in the kitchen and helps with the cost. So I made loaded baked potato soup in my Pampered Chef covered baker which can be done all in the microwave, amazing really. Others brought appetizers (Kelsey's bacon wrapped weenies are to die for), salad and bread and there you have it, a holiday meal.
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