Two Novembers

FACEinHOLE

2008-12-13T18:40:00.001-05:00

Sarah is excited...

2008-05-15T11:56:00.003-04:00

That she gets a "do-over".

Tonight, she is going to read and drink coffee. And it's going to be fabulous.

And when I'm not being sassy...

2008-03-13T00:42:00.002-04:00

Sarah Joy and Hannah Joy!

Hannah Joy and a glow worm!
Hannah Joy just looking adorable

Carmen playing the piano (Not "Killing me Softly" :))

Sarah says, "Fuck it all!" And doesn't feel guilty.

2008-03-10T11:11:00.000-04:00

Don't put anybody on a pedestal but Jesus.

Forgive yourself.

And say, "Damn!" just to make sure you're healed.

--Steven Brown--

I hate it when...

2008-03-08T03:59:00.003-05:00

People can say things that make me uncomfortable, but if I say things that make them uncomfortable it's not an okay thing. Or I get stopped. Or the conversation gets stopped.

No... I hate it that I am not choosing love. I am choosing fear.

Mostly, I hate it when people swear just to get attention.

And I hate it that instead of choosing to believe in the good in people, I automatically think that things need to be confronted.

I don't want to always feel like I have to "one up".

Sarah's Video

2008-03-01T15:51:00.004-05:00

No. Stop.

2008-02-21T22:05:00.001-05:00

A little bit about what I am passionate about: Christian faculty and Christian students praying together, discussing together, working together, loving together, researching together... being in academy together.

Am I crazy for thinking this?

"Yes. You went to a private Christian college. The community you had there is not realistic in the real world."

But, wait, isn't this what Christ called us to?

"But I signed up to teach. That's it. Oh, and maybe help you with your writing. Or to understand management and organizational systems. There was nothing about--"

No. Stop.

When I presented this to the Christian faculty/staff group at UWM, I was turned down. In essence, it seemed like the Christian faculty is more interested in their own community. But, and call me an optimist, I WANT MORE THAN THAT. No, more importantly, we are called to more than that. As a Christian student, I am called to pray with/for Christian professors. To learn from. As a Christian faculty, they are called to mentor/pray with me. (Do I REALLY need to chapter and verse this for you all?)

AM I being too hopeful?

I think this is sounding clunky, but I am trying to write it quickly, and I have had a bit of an emotional week. The following articles, taken from: http://www.intervarsity.org/gfm/faculty/resource/faculty-as-salt-light really speak to what I am talking about. In order for something like this to happen, faculty need to be promoting it. I don't think that even as a graduate student I am going to be listened to in this capacity.

I mean, I don't know what to do. I don't know who to talk to. I don't know who to even BEGIN to approach this subject with.

There are a few professors who I know are Christians, but who (and maybe I am assuming) don't see this as part of their role. They're in academia. Yes, but WHY are you here? The power of being in that position, of having the ability to pray with students...

AMAZINGLY CHRISTLIKE.

AMAZINGLY TRUTHFUL.

1. School Newspaper Ads with Faculty NamesUniversity of Michigan, Ann Arbor

Dr. Vern Terpstra of the International Business Department at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, has published ads twice a year in the Michigan Daily. Here is a sample called "Faculty Friends." The introductory paragraph reads: "Faculty friends are faculty, researchers, and staff who are united by their common experience that Jesus Christ provides intellectually and spiritually satisfying answers to life's most important questions. We are willing to meet at appropriate times with students who might like to discuss such questions."

Then there follows a list of faculty names, their departments, and phone numbers. Shortly before Easter, one was titled, "THE TOMB IS EMPTY: CHRIST IS RISEN!" The Easter ad also had a note indicating that it was sponsored by the LIM Christian Faculty & Staff Fellowship.

Several newspapers on campus and in Ann Arbor published articles showing that these ads set off a lively debate. Some were critical for the inclusion of phone numbers which were university numbers; others criticized it as proseletyzing. There were letters in defense and letters in opposition so it was definitely noticed and became a topic of discussion.

Under the leadership of the InterVarsity sponsor and students at the University of Wichita back in the early 1970s, a similar project was done. Letters with all the Christian faculty names known were inserted into faculty mailboxes requesting others of like mind to call or write to any of those listed faculty to express their interest in being part of their group. This also created a stir but caused some Christian faculty to identify themselves.

18. Starting a "Grad IV"
An interview with Dr. Brent Seales, Assistant Professor in Computer Science at the University of Kentucky. Brent was in a "grad IV" at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and has been at Kentucky for eight years.

1. Why would a prof consider that starting a grad IV group was important enough to justify the time and resource investment?
Time management is essential in order to wear all the hats owned by a faculty member. It would be easy to fill a schedule with only research or just teaching alone. But almost everyone in the university community agrees that "service" is part of our charter. Professors as teachers also agree that mentoring students, which usually goes beyond what is taught in the classroom, is also part of our mission. And most importantly, we as believers agree that our core faith principles should be integrated into all aspects of our lives, including the university duties of research, teaching, mentoring, and service. Involvement with graduate student ministries is a serious time and resource investment that is absolutely in line with our mission as university faculty and believers.

2. How does one get ideas and information about what a grad student fellowship might look like? Is there any help available to get one going? How, who, and what gets it going?
There are more and more grad student fellowship alumni who have moved into faculty and staff positions. They represent a valuable resource because of their direct experience. I have found the conferences hosted by InterVarsity to be very valuable for exchanging ideas, finding resource material, and locating people who are experienced with grad-student ministries.
InterVarsity staff who work with undergraduates often have contact with graduate students. This can form into a core of graduate students who are interested in exploring the issues and concerns of being in the university for post-graduate work. This is how the group at the University of Kentucky was formed. Every student group needs a faculty sponsor, and the resources and knowledge that a committed professor can bring to a new group is enormous. Students key in on this kind of initiative and implicitly understand that important things are involved. My experience is that students will more readily follow the example set by faculty when they see them continue to commit time and resources to ministry even when other responsibilities are substantial.

3. What does it do for you once it's there? What does it do for the students, for the church? Does it help or hinder their performance as grad students?
Graduate-student fellowships provide a powerful mechanism for mentoring students in faith and profession and forces faculty who are involved to articulate their own mission more clearly. In particular, it is all too easy to get lost in the details of professional duties, forgetting or intentionally boxing out our faith principles. Graduate-student ministries present us with the challenge of making our faith real and integrating it with our respective work.
The local church is enriched when graduate students bring to it the diversity and intensity of the university. Many church members have no contact with the university other than through its students, and it is important for them to see the trends and struggles that students face.

Performance as graduate students, professors, or anything else is absolutely dependent upon the grace of God. He expects us, as believers, to make him Lord of every aspect of our lives. God is the ultimate performance enhancer. Our individual faith journeys will entail different commitments and directions, but the elements of personal devotion to God and regular worship within a body of believers are essential. They do not hinder any aspect of what God has called us to do.

Dead Languages

2008-02-21T18:18:00.002-05:00

I refuse to write my future novel until I can do it in at least five dead languages. Because maybe, just maybe, then... I won't hear "What's at stake?"

I can do it. I can do it nine times!

2008-02-04T15:11:00.001-05:00

Christmas and Pictures and Such

2008-01-18T16:42:00.000-05:00

So, it was Christmas and I was bored and I decided to take lots of pictures. The following are my wonderful translations of the pictures. Or... me being bored again! :)

The Author Pic. Or "Hey! What are YOU looking at?"

Sarah taking Dan DOWN. D-O-W-N!

Christmas and Looking Pretty and Such

4th Time's a Charm! Lazy Eye Surgery

Santa's Naughty Little Helper

Me... Plotting the Future.

Sung to the tune of Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer

2007-12-26T04:21:00.000-05:00

English, my favorite subject
But for reading Moby Dick
And if you ever it took it
It would make your whiskers tick

All of my other family
Used to laugh and call me names
They never let poor Sarah
Join in any John Deer games

Then one tractor breaking day
The family came to say
Sarah with your mind so bright
Won't you help us out tonight

Then how the family loved her
As they shouted out with glee
Sarah the English major
Tractor runs because you read

Things that make me angry

2007-12-22T22:06:00.000-05:00

1. Hypocritical Christianity.

2. Myself when I get in "I don't want to do it" mood.

3. People who say, "I love you", but when it comes right down to it if you needed a floor, couch, or a bus pass would rather play video games.

4. Attending a public university and not being able to have amazing godly conversations when I want to.

5. Also, not being able to say, "Hey, will you pray with me" or praying before class! Sometimes I forget, and start to ask "Aren't we going to pray?"

5. People who don't understand the concepts of family and friends.

6. Writer's block.

7. Sappy books in bookstores.

8. Sappy books in Christian bookstores.

9. Christian bookstores.

10. Tonight.

Really, Need I Say More?

2007-05-29T03:03:00.000-04:00

I like popcorn

2007-05-11T23:39:00.000-04:00

And oh my gosh!!! My first year of graduate school is almost done-done-DONE! I have to finish a paper and answer three more questions on an exam and then hand that in.

Then I have to finish up grading and working stuff, but then I can go HOME!

How very excited am I?
Oh wow!
My lips are smiling just thinking about it.
Eeek, I can't write anymore.

That's about it, too--the whole not writing thing. And why can't I write? Because I have written an ungodly amount of words this semester. Way to many to even think about and stay sane. But, I DID IT! I finished my first year of graduate school.

And, for the most part, I did it without performing.

Blogging goals for the summer: One book per week (I am also taking three classes, so we'll see!)

In the world of writing, I am going to try to crank out my YA novel this summer. At least, draft number one.

We'll see. I will be disciplined, I will be disciplined, I will be disciplined.

I will be patient with people who are performanced based... I will... I will... I will :) Or God will!

Note to self:

2007-05-06T23:10:00.000-04:00

Because I am fresh out of yellow sticky notes--don't forget to buy a slurpy on Tuesday at 11:30! It really does help the nerves for, uh, Wednesday...

Top Ten Reasons Why Wednesday Will Be Fun
1. I will wear glitter so that I sparkle more than I usually do, of course.
2. Pigtails!
3. I will stay in bed reading until 11:30 am.
4. M&Ms, what?
5. I'm going to call my mommy :)
6. Both of my two really big papers WILL BE DONE!
7. I am going to email all of my really cool important people :)
8. I am going to pray, pray, PRAY!
9. I will wear flip-flops.
10. I will choose to be happy :)

Not very creative I guess... but, good for having focused on writing all day.

Later all, Sarah Joy

Point One

2007-04-26T01:20:00.000-04:00

For really cool people who choose to be wise in regard to feelings and actions...

Keep 'em coming, baby!

I'm a D2L Whore

2007-04-24T01:48:00.000-04:00

Potentially harsh, but overarchingly true.

Right, and before that analogy gets played out ANY further, let's just say that I have a few new tricks up my sleeve...

...Says the girl with two calendars and way too many cups of coffee.

Oh yeah, and I died my hair pink.

Worship Leading

2007-04-21T21:47:00.000-04:00

Today, I was asked to lead worship at my church. OF COURSE (said with as much emphasis as boldness and italics can muster) that would be no problem. Matter of fact, that is no problem. Singing/teaching in front of groups of people--got that down.

But... can I communicate when it's needed for my benefit? OF COURSE NOT!!! Only for God's apparently... I think that would be... Westminster?

... whatever... (emphasis on the what).

:) And here are some pictures :)

2007-04-20T23:32:00.000-04:00

Sarah and Amanda

(My old college roomate and her sister)

Me and Matthew Grant

(My little cousin)

Johanna and Gracie

(My sisters)

Sisterly Love?

:) Ah... That's more like it :)

I took a walk today

2007-04-20T22:53:00.000-04:00

So, it was such a nice day that I took a walk. I was supposed to run 3 miles, but was more productive--much more--as I realized a few truths about life that I had been avoiding, or that I hadn't been ready to hear.

Basically, I realized how much I need to be careful and protective of myself and those around me. God has given me an amazing gift of empathy/the ability to understand things about where people are coming from, and I can choose to use that in a good way or a bad way. Today, I chose to be especially careful and will only be using my gift in a way that glorifies and honors Him. Not that I had been using it in a wrong way... only, I hadn't been aware that 1) Yeah, people are affected by what I say and do, and 2) Sometimes I need to back off and give people their space, for whatever reason.

But most importantly, I realized that it is okay that I am backing off. I don't need to explain myself and it isn't going to hurt anyone. If anything, it will help in giving grace to my family in Christ.

And I can choose to do all of this while living in freedom because God is going to give me what I need and others what they need.

I am still a bit raw from my emotions over the past week, but definitely in a place of understanding and awe--that I was given the grace to understand. Now I just pray that others will understand that 1) It's okay and 2) It will probably always be a struggle, but it slowly goes away as other blessings come into our lives.

Peace, Sarah Joy

But what fun would that be?

2007-04-19T19:02:00.001-04:00

"Seems to me this perfection thing isn't working for you.Maybe you could try something different?Aspire to being human, maybe, rather than perfect (since there has onlybeen one perfect person, on purpose, I believe?)"

But Why Can't You Pray With Me?

2007-04-19T15:20:00.000-04:00

Is my question for the day.

One of these days I am just going to ask it.

Mercy Me Songs

2007-04-19T02:07:00.000-04:00

I'm finding myself at a loss for words
And the funny thing is; it's okay
The last thing I need is to be heard
But to hear what You would say

Word of God Speak...

***

3:41 am, Make that 3:42
Time just keeps rolling by
While I'm here stuck like glue
So many things on my mind
But nothing seems worthwhile

... Say, say what You wanna say...
Speak through me
If the idea's mine, it's nothing but a waste of time.

Crazy Sunday Things

2007-04-15T21:34:00.000-04:00

(Not as in these can only happen on Sunday, only--they DID happen on Sunday!)

So, I was going to go running tonight in the Klosche Center. Despite the beautiful day, I have this thing of not liking to be far from home when I am walking--I feel like I can't get back to where I need to be if there is an emergency. Crazy thinking, probably, but that's how my mind works. Anyway, the weight room was closed, so I was a little bummed. But, I decided to mix it up a bit and go for a walk/run. Really, I was going to run because I like it better than walking (What's the purpose of walking unless you need to get some place?), but I ended up discovering really cool thing number one:

A trail! And, I thought that this trail might lead down to the road that ran by the lake. Instead, it ran right into the lake! It was so amazing, like God had put Lake Michigan there just for me. It was a bit breathtaking and I almost started crying. Actually, there were a few tears shed in awe of the amazing beauty and how close I felt to God at that moment. I still didn't know what He is/was saying to me, but I am/was relatively okay with that. God's doing something, and He isn't revealing all of it to me just yet. He could just be telling me how much He loves me, but I just get the feeling that it's bigger than that. Or, I want it to be bigger than that. I am sure either are fine, as long as I am trusting in Him and willing to listen to His Holy Spirit.

Instead of going home after running into really cool thing, number one, I kept heading North on Lake Drive and I came to a section where there is a walking trail--I think the cross street is Capitol. When you get to the end of the house/trees there, all you see is Lake, and if you walk toward the benches like I did, there are some piers (I think... they are stone... and I am not really sure what their purpose is, but it doesn't matter). Anyway, the middle one was in the shape of a cross. Now, I know ya'll are going to think I am crazy--but considering everything else God is doing in my life right now, that was significant. Again, I am not sure how, but I know it means something. Plus, I had praise and worship music playing on my headphones, so I was pretty amped up/emotional.

Again, I know it's NOT ABOUT FEELINGS. I get that, and I am cool with that. For me, I get the intellectual/liturgical just as much as the feelings. And while I am not great with silence, I understand it, and I understand that no matter where my feeler is, it's okay because I am still in the truth unless I am blatantly choosing to walk after the flesh.

So... I don't know.

Church was good today. I am thinking about starting ministry in the 20-30 age group--they need another worship leader. I've been thinking about it for awhile. Obviously, I am going to pray about it and think about it, but I think it's time. I've been missing not "being in ministry".

***

ON BEING "IN MINISTRY"

So, I get really frustrated in school because there are certain things I can't do (because some crazy person decided they were wrong... whatever...) and I get annoyed because I feel blocked--it's really difficult being a female and having mostly male professors. At this point, it's not about me (granted, sometimes it is and I get whiny because I don't have anyone I can talk to; remember I want to CU--mentorship is important to me, but I can deal with that and I am growing in that).

What it is about? Having a passion in SO many things that I know I could say that are healing words (in a good way, not in a weird way) and feeling stuck because I can't say them because... I'm only a student. I know boundaries are important and they are there for a reason, but coming from a ministry setting where everyone is family, I often have a difficult time understanding why certain things are wrong. I get them, but I don't GET them or think they are necessarily right.

Craziness.

Growth in Holiness

2007-04-14T17:25:00.000-04:00

Because this fascinates me:

When Paul called himself a sinner, it was only to refer back to his pre-Damascus status. He *always* addresses the Christian church using the endearment, "saints".

What does that mean for me?

I am NOT a sinner saved by grace. I am a saint!

(If you really need me to chapter and verse it for you, I will... BUT, for now Romans 5-8 is a great place to start..."I reign in life through Christ!')

Saturday's Going to Suck

2007-04-14T01:28:00.000-04:00

Just anticipating one year, six months.

I find that if I acknowledge it, instead of trying to ignore it, I do better.

It just bites because it's a Saturday and I am not at school and I have nothing to keep my mind off of it.

And I can't go see the grave, which now has a slab of cement laid and "Mason" written in it--still no tombstone (as of my Spring Break).

Wow, wow, wow

2007-04-13T02:17:00.000-04:00

I've decided I'm going to write a song.

... More to come... later!

A Decent Reminder

2007-04-10T11:36:00.000-04:00

Savor kindness because cruelty is always possible later.

In my world of Saturday is 1 yr 6 mos, I have been attempting to not think about it. But, in not thinking about it, I have been getting punchy in my responses. I think it's better if I am just myself (as much as that means I may cry at odd moments) and stop trying to NOT think about my feelings.

Life is simpler when I am honest.

In other news, I need cofffeee. :)

2007-04-09T16:19:00.000-04:00

Some of my better stuff from earliest to latest, though probably not award winning :)

August 2004
"If it says 'quiescently'..."
"Why are Red, WHITE, and BLUE..."

September 2004
"I woke up with a black eye this morning"
"The honor of being Christa's homepage"

November 2004
"I have a hole in my ceiling"

January 2005
"Do you know..."

February 2005
"Merely a flesh wound..."

August 2005
"Pheeling Photographic"

November 2005
"Is that a spider?"

January 2006
"What I learned today"

May 2006
"Rule number one"

September 2006
"Future book..."

Friends in Africa

2007-04-09T15:22:00.000-04:00

Hey all out there in CyberLand Blogging World :)

In honor of my friends, Reagen (as in Shakespeare) and Rebecca (as in the Bible) being currently in Africa, I have updated my links section to include: SOIS Travel Adventures. Please feel free to check it out, though as of my last check, nothing new has been added. You can also check out Reagen's Africa Trip for more information. I am excited to hear from both of them how things are going!

In the world of writing, I went to church yesterday (where I am determined to crank out my first novel--some people write in libraries, I write in churches) and got some wicked great material. Although, in this case I don't mean plot. Rather, I think I am working on character development. And by character development, I mean mine. To exegete (because who doesn't like that?), I was reminded that my whole life IS oriented around the resurrection. So, I have the freedom to create, redeem, and live restoratively. More importantly, I have the power in JC to do so! How wicked cool is that? Whew!

And then in the more material world of writing, a roommate conversation:

Me at 1:30 am being awoken suddenly from a dead sleep and seeing pitch black except for my roomie who was dressed in all white: "Ahhhhhhhhhh!!"

Very patient roommate: "Hey, shh. You okay?"

Me still confused: "Yeah, I thought you were an angel" (Because, of course, only I would go there with that... duh, Sarah, duh).

...

Me noticing all of her bags and luggage: "Apparently, my angel has baggage... I have to remember to write that down for a story..."

Sleep.

What I Totally Forgot

2007-03-24T01:31:00.000-04:00

And completely should have remembered: The prodigal son (as in the parable) isn't about the son at all, it's about the Father.

Him waiting and waiting and waiting...

And then running...

I forgot. And I should have remembered.

But, this will help. Things should start coming quicker now (not that it's about that). At least, maybe, they'll be a little clearer. I'm still unsure what "things", but something hast to start clearing up... hopefully!

Easter Choral Vespers

2007-03-23T13:31:00.000-04:00

Easter Choral Vespers Concordia Theological Seminary Kantorei Thursday, April 12, 2007 - 7 PM Luther Memorial Chapel and University Student Center3833 N Maryland Ave, Shorewood--FREE

The Kantorei is a 16-voice choir of students studyingfor the Office of the Holy Ministry at ConcordiaTheological Seminary in Fort Wayne, IN. They willstop in Shorewood on their 2007 Easter tour for an hour-long celebration of Easter music on Thursday,April 12 at 7 PM.

It's FREE and there will be a light reception afterward. You are invited to come and bring family and friends.

I Need a Church

2007-03-23T12:44:00.000-04:00

I have decided that the world should have "church services" and by that, I don't mean the actual sermon, I mean it as a simile to dating services. Although, maybe it could have a different name because what I have now is kind of cheesy.

Since coming to WI, I have found one church that I absolutely love (Redeemer Evangelical Free)--not works based, solid theologically, decent worship, great people. The problem being that since I moved, it is about 40 minutes away, and since I am interested in working in ministry again, I figured I should get involved in something on the East Side.

Being me, I refuse to settle--I think I have been to every church in Shorewood... and more! I am debating beginning a career in church reviews. I know that part of the problem is that I am too picky: Flashback to Christian Foundations II aka NT when Chuck told me, "Catholics are people, too, Sarah... want to come to my church?" or when he told us that there were arguments for the apostle Paul being gay and I responded, in the middle of class, that he was completely crazy and had absolutely no basis for his argument, to which he cut me off by saying--"Ah, my good little Baptist girl." (And, no, I am not going to flashback to Christian Theology and all the tears I cried in that class--thankfully both Chuck and Jeremy were PATIENT). Obviously, I have grown a lot since then both in my own faith, but also in grace that I am able to extend to others and what they believe (I still get headaches sometimes when I am struggling, but I am learning).

Rambling aside... I have no idea where to go. I am debating trying Milwaukee Bible Church next Sunday. And I would love to go to Ebenezer Evangelical Free (notice the absence of a website which is part of the problem--I don't know what time their services start!). And then there are the multitude of Catholic churches. And Lutheran. And Presbyterian. And... and... and... And, yes, I tried the Baptist church--it's too "Baptist!" Which I can say, because I was there... and now I am not (thank God!) But, I am still... Bible? Ev Free? Haven't completely decided that yet, but we're working on it ;).

Okay--all that to say, I am taking suggestions.

Feel free to offer.

Later, Sarah JOY!!!

1:00 am is not a good time to buy slurpies

2007-03-17T02:41:00.000-04:00

So, my roommate realized at appx. 12:35 am that she had forgotten her medicine for her epilepsy. So, being the faithful friend that I am, I asked her what we could do to solve this situation--suggesting that she call the pharmacy and her doctor. Since we were going to have to go to a Walgreen's to pick up her medicine at said 12:35 am, I suggested that we make it fun.

Grabbing another roommate's motorcycle helmet, I entered WG with the helmet/my PJs in pursuit of her medicine (I am sure the lovely WG people were quite concerned and they probably would have offered some kind of medicine to me had it not been highly illegal). After about a ten minute wait and a conversation with the store clerk about the benefit of playing an Irish jig on the radio due to today really being St. Patrick's Day and him telling me I should bring back my violin so I could play for them, we were out the door.

On the way back, I said that we needed to stop so I could get a slurpy at Open Pantry. FYI: 1:00 am is NOT the best time to get a slurpy. While their coffee (French Roast and free trade!) is still top notch in my book (or, rather, my future book...), slurpies at 1:00 am just aren't cutting it--Frederick Taylor should have moderated their slurpy production for the benefit of all! Of course, I think he was more involved with assembly lines... hmm...

The most fun part of the evening was when we came back and realized that our door was locked. So, being the resourceful person that I am, I asked my roomie for a card that she rarely used and proceeded to break into our apartment.

Now, I am going to bed where I will dream about all of the books that I am going to read :)

Spring Break Goals

2007-03-15T22:56:00.000-04:00

1. Figuring out what time the best slurpies are served. I hope to buy a slurpy within various different hours, dutifully reporting back here with the results.

2. Read: Passage by Connie Willis, Magyk by Angi Sage, All Saints by Liam Callanan, Before I Wake by Dee Henderson, The Bible (specifically the end of Judges, Ruth, and I and II Samuel) by God, This is My Best edited by Retha Powers and Kathy Kiernan.

3. Getting at least two weeks ahead in all of my classes (what this really looks like: getting way ahead in the classes I like and pretending my other classes don't exist).

4. Work on crocheting my mom's blanket

5. Taking out the violin? Dusting it off? Admiring it? Maybe playing a jig?

6. Organizing pictures.

And, of course...

WRITING :)

Last night God woke me up like 20 times with a story idea. I was more than slightly irritated because He knows that I get cranky when He expects me to write at 3:00 am... even though that is when I do my best writing. Still... He needs to learn to tap in to my muse in the afternoon hours not the am hours!!!

Over and out, Sarah

And one more thing...

2007-03-15T01:13:00.000-04:00

What I REALLY forgot to say...

MARCH 14, 2007: 1 year 5 mo anniversary.

Slurpy Run

2007-03-14T00:51:00.000-04:00

As I was thinking about what might make tomorrow easier, I had a flash back to undergrad days when I used to get all nervous and angsty about Christian Theology... and I went on a slurpy run! Still as effective as ever--sugar high for the night will do just the trick for that good 'ol "I am going to throw up" feeling.

March 14, 2007 is ALL about ME!!!

2007-03-13T21:11:00.000-04:00

FIRST WORKSHOP OF THE SEMESTER...

I think I am going to puke. At least I don't have to wory about forgetting my words like the chic on American Idol. Not that I watch stuff like that--I am a smart graduate student. I don't have time to watch TV because I read books by really smart people.

Riiight...

I came to the realization the other day that I could totally write the books that I read (embarrasingly referred to as Christian smut) and crank 'em out. But, I also know that I am "playing with the big dogs" now (as they say in places like... China?) and that I can either choose to fight it or step up and grow. Of course, I am going to choose the latter, but in the mean time, I might sulk for a while about the fact that people who aren't pushing themselves are getting published.

That's all I got... until tomorrow when I rant about feeling like the scum of the earth and how I am a horrible writer and am never going to do this graduate school thing again!

Rand McNally

2007-03-13T00:53:00.000-04:00

Okay kiddies,

Today I came to an epiphany of sorts: No longer am I going to care about my cheesy ideas, even if they get a bit moldy, because gosh darn it "I'm good enough, I'm smart enough, and people like me!"

That said, the other day I was playing the word assocation game where you say a word, phrase, name, etc and the other person has to think of a word, phrase, name etc quickly--the faster you do it, the funnier it becomes, especially if you can talk in complete sentences (kudos to my theology teacher at CU for teaching me this!). Anyway, as the game progressed I eventually said The Cloud Atlas, a book written by a professor from UWM (http://www.liamcallanan.com), to which my friend responded, "Rand McNally" at this point, I blundered and seriously lost focus... thinking... and then finally saying, "Did he write a book about a cloud atlas, too?"

Duh, Sarah, duh.

And then there are those people who just don't get it...

2007-01-22T23:55:00.000-05:00

I can deal with people who are jerks. Namely, I ignore them or am afraid of them and try to avoid them at all costs

I can deal with people who try but make mistakes. They can be forgiven.

What I can't deal with is those who have given up on trying. The people who have said, "Screw it, I am not going to put any more effort in than is absolutely necessary in any given aspect of my life." Those are the people who my heart goes out to--the one's I am the most compassionate with. And yet, I am at an impass. If you're not willing to be helped, what can I do? Pray, obviously. But, I know (and I say this in the most humble way possible, not trying to be like the people that buitl the tower of Babel) that I have something to offer, that I am worth something, that I care, that I have time (somewhat) and that I can give... and then that's rejected? That hurts.

But, because of who I am, I won't give up. I am not going to push it, either. But, I am still going to be here when those people need me (if they ever choose to need me... and not that they will necessarily "need" me). I will be here, with open arms, and waiting. Because, I know I have something to offer, in the most humblest of terms.

If you're reading this... pray. Namely, pray for me--pray that I am patient. I can choose to wait. God waited for me. I can wait for other people.

Well...

2006-11-28T22:37:00.000-05:00

It's official. I have completely lost my mind.

Thank God for really considerate people who don't mind my social blunders.

I hate it when you say something and then you are totally, totally wrong. Again, thank God for grace!

Seriously, people that are willing to look beyond the fact that you do stupid things and know that you really just care are the most amazing people in the world--it's what gets me through library and English school most days.

I appreciate people like that.

One of those "Where the heck did that come from?" moments

2006-11-18T18:28:00.000-05:00

You know when you're in library school... and you think you're really cool and smart. And then, you realize you really aren't? And you tell some one this? And they tell you not to say bad stuff about yourself, and you've heard it all before because you've been through the truths of Exchanged Life and you're just frustrated with hearing "say good stuff about yourself" when all you really want to hear is--

"What can I pray with you about?"

And you're so focused on yourself because you're frustrated that you're not at the Christian school that you went to undergrad at, and you know that life isn't a Christian bubble, but you miss it anyway and you're in the middle of talking to someone wondering, "Am I really where I am supposed to be?" or "How did I get here in the first place?" When all of a sudden someone floors you with a comment--

"And if you're a child of God..."

And you don't really hear the rest because you're so astonished by the first part, that you stare... dumbfounded... before praying--

"God! You are here!"

Yeah, that happened to me. :)

PTL, right all? That's my acronym for the day. I have start speaking in them apparently, being in library school and all. The less verbs and nouns you use the better.

Over and out and such,

Sarah

Okay, more fun library quotes...

2006-11-14T23:21:00.000-05:00

And for the sake of confidentiality, I am NOT citing my sources.

"I feel like I work with people who throw out what's in the box and only want the bubble wrap!"

"Oh, ok."

More later!!!

Because I can

2006-10-30T18:13:00.000-05:00

See below for reference. This was passed along to me by a member of my church in Grand Rapids :) Because I can...

Statement Of Faith

Below you will find our Statement of Faith, along with the Apostle's Creed, and the Nicene Creed.

We accept the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be the written Word of God. We believe in the divine inspiration, entire trustworthiness and final authority of the Bible in all matters of faith and practice. We celebrate:

The triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

The incarnate Son: Jesus Christ, fully God, fully man.

The goodness and beauty of the world, created and sustained by the Word of God's power.

Salvation by grace received through faith in Jesus Christ, who alone, through His life, death and bodily resurrection, redeems us from sin and reconciles us unto God.

The essential unity of all believers, who together form one Church, diverse in form and expression, of which Christ is the Head.

The continuing ministry of God the Holy Spirit, who empowers the worship, service and witness of God's's people in all their activities.

The ultimate deliverance of the children of God and of all nature from the destructive consequences of the Fall.

We further confess the historic statements of the Apostles' and Nicene Creeds:

The Apostles Creed: I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth: and in Jesus Christ His only Son our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead, and buried; He descended into Hell; the third day He rose again from the dead, He ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty; from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Ghost; the holy catholic Church; the communion of saints; the forgiveness of sins; the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen

The Nicene Creed: I believe in one God the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible; And in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God, begotten of His Father before all worlds; God of God, Light of Light; Very God of Very God; begotten, not made; being of one substance with the Father, by whom all things were made; Who for us men, and for our salvation, came down from heaven; and was incarnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary, and was made man; and was crucified also for us under Pontius Pilate. He suffered and was buried; and the third day He rose again according to the Scriptures; and ascended into heaven; and sitteth on the right hand of the Father, and He shall come again with glory to judge both the quick and the dead; Whose kingdom shall have no end'.

And I believe in the Holy Ghost; the Lord and Giver of Life; Who proceedeth from the Father and the Son; Who with the Father and the Son together is worshiped and glorified; Who spake by the prophets. And I believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. I acknowledge one baptism of sins. And I look for the resurrection of the dead; and the life of the world to come. Amen.

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2006-10-17T22:43:00.000-04:00

Because going to class is an adventure, I have compiled a list of the seriously funny things that my professors say. Maybe this is only funny to me, but it really does provide me with enjoyment.

It's the little things that get you through the day :)

CREATIVE WRITING

"I'm having a shoe-burning. What do you mean you're having a shoe burning? Well, I have these shoes... and I'm going to burn them."

"Whatever you say."

"I hate it when people tell me about their novels... I just... zzzzz..."

"I'm thinking you have to get on the higher cable channels in the middle of the night... I'm all about research."

"I'm always reluctant to tell someone, 'Oh, you should make this a novel,' because that takes me about ten seconds to say, but then they're stuck with it for the next three years!"

LIBRARY SCIENCE

"It's okay..." (Gotta be a teacher thing)

"Mmm... yeah ya did."

"Yeah ya can, but not while you're working."

"My husband is kicking the dog."

Ahh... the things that get you through the day. And now--time to go watch NCIS and possible JAG reruns :)

USDA Gold Stars

2006-10-06T15:18:00.000-04:00

As promised--pictures! They are mostly self-explanatory 1) Picture of my friend Evan; such a cutie! 2) Johanna and me after I surprised her at her prom, 3) Random stairs at an old mansion located in Milwaukee, 4) Grace and Desmond at our family reunion. I love Gracie's expression in this one and she will probably threaten my life after posting that, but I couldn't pass it up!

As an update, life is good. A very nice person told me that I deserved a gold star for everything that I was doing because of all of the crap that has happened as of late (long pre-conversation to that comment), and while I really just want to revel in the moment, I need to chose to set my mind on things above. Pray that I remember that my identity is in Christ and not in performance.

Until later, Sarah

I hate... hate... HATE

2006-09-19T20:05:00.000-04:00

People that are anal about cell phones. That said, I am choosing to be understanding of those who don't understand the concept of GRACE...

I am thinking about the future book that I am going to write...

2006-09-17T21:44:00.000-04:00

Here are some future titles for my book that I will one day write:

1. Why library school makes me want to stick a pen in my eye
2. Collection development bites
3. Why I never have time to write because I am always reading
4. Sleep?
5. 99 ways to read five books/night
6. Two calendars, because one just isn't enough
7. Steven Covey's got nothing on me
8. How to listen to a book, type a thirty page paper, and do my nails while sitting in a traffic jam
9. Parking sucks

And coming to a bookstore near you...

10. How to swim from Milwaukee to Grand Rapids: Great stress relievers for seriously overworked graduate students.

Nah, it really is all in jest. And for those of you who still read this, I hope to post some pictures in the near future, just for the heck of it. Actually, posting pictures allows me to avoid acknowledging that blasted fifteen page paper I have coming up. Note: that is being nice. In my head I am throwing a temper tantrum. Yes, I know I signed up for this whole creative writing thing, but in less than one week, it is going to be real--I don't know if I am ready for it.

On a less depressing note: U of M kicked Notre Dame butt! Hail to the victors...!

2006-09-09T15:36:00.000-04:00

Yes, yes, life in Milwaukee has officially started to be on the upswing of things. I still don't quite have my schedule down, namely because it is so different on each day, but that will come. I have started to make some new and interesting friends, including, but not limited to: The "CW" group (creative writing), random fat squirrels that attempt to attack me on a daily basis as I walk to the library, and friends from Intervarsity. All in all, I am having a grand 'ol time.

Now it is time for the event I like to call, "new and interesting facts about Milwaukee and thereabouts"...

1. People call waterfountains "bubblers".
2. They have no Michigan turns!
3. I am a minority.
4. My name is a minority. I have yet to meet another Sarah! Amazing, eh?
5. I feel like I am being watched... hmm...

Okay, time for more reading! Did I tell you how much I love reading 12.7 chapters everyday? The .7 is required... the other .3 is not required but generally there is at least a 356 page paper (MLA and APA formats combined with footnotes, endnotes, and eighth notes on those .3 pages that are considered "optional". In other words, "Grad school is serioulsy kicking my butt!" But, I have said that more than once to multiple people who still read this blog...

Have a great day and don't forget to make your bed!

Welp...

2006-08-09T13:24:00.000-04:00

Hmm, I was thinking about the word "welp" just now. I used to say it to mean "well" when I was younger. So, I thought it would be a great title, ya think? (That "ya think" was said Gibb's style... as if there is any other way!)

So, anyway...

I have moved from the lovely state of Vermont, to a place that has night life other than the occasional moose that one might see if the previously mentioned one were headed north towards Canada. I enjoy Wisconsin; although, I currently have no close friends. I am living with a family as a nanny for two boys. So, they are my social life right now, whcih is more than a little wierd because they believe in Christian mysticism. So, obviously, I am praying for their salvation.

I also have a job! I work at the library at UWM. I am waiting to hear if I got the job at the Writing Center (crossing fingers).

Classes start after labor day and I can barely contain my excitement. Yes, sadly, I am a nerd and I enjoy going to school. But, you already knew all that.

Eh, guess I am not feeling really creative today. I think I need to watch a good movie with giant rats, large cucumbers, and the occasional pirate. That would most definately get me in a creative spirit so I can harmonize words and create awesome alliteration!!!

In the mean time... I am off to explore the world of elipsis...

...

That said...

2006-05-16T23:27:00.001-04:00

DON!!! What were you thinking?!?! You can't make Gibbs leave! Are you serious? ACK! For the whole summer, until I start graduate school (note to self: in one of my writing assignments kill main character), I am going to have to sleep with the thought of Gibbs being all alone with some crazy person in Mexico. Serioulsy, Don... you're a nut case. And I can say that because you aren't my boss... yet.

Rule Number One

2006-05-16T23:23:00.000-04:00

Never, ever, ever be afraid to have one of your main characters leave. Never.

What do you do when...

2006-05-02T23:20:00.000-04:00

You are hurt by a friend, but have no way of explaining your hurt because you're afraid of rejection?

...Even if they're different now?

God is good...

2006-04-23T22:47:00.000-04:00

All the time...

All the time, God is good.

Yup.

I survived my first accident!!!

2006-03-04T14:32:00.000-05:00

MORE TO COME LATER :) :) :)

Week from Hell

2006-02-22T22:46:00.000-05:00

Basically, that is all I have to say. The title sums it all up and even wraps it with a bow.

What I learned today...

2006-01-31T10:59:00.000-05:00

" This method is the only method I know that works 100% of the time in any situation be it a high or low distraction" (J.H.).

The previous is a quote from a good friend and for the protection of the innocent, I won't be specific name wise, but just in case he ever reads my entertaining thoughts, I will pretend I have give him part of his due credit.

While he used it for something entirely different... I am going to be creative and write the top ten scenarios to which this quote could apply:

1) Mowing the lawn with a salad shooter.

2) Chewing gum on an elevator.

3) Learning how to bungi jump with a rubber band.

4) Writing a paper on the existential properties of chocolate within the realistic scenarios of college calculus and the advanced properties of Shakespeare.

5) Riding a bike with no hands or feet.

6) Eating a banana.

7) Pink Flamingoing your neighbors.

8) Snorkling in a kiddy pool.

9) Attending a job interview in your bathing suit.

10) Brushing your teeth with a brillow pad.

Over and out, Sarah

Grilling the Turkey Day Bird

2006-01-30T09:45:00.000-05:00

This past year on Thanksgiving, I had the extraordinary opportunity to deep fry a turkey. This used to be on my list of things to do, but now it is on my list of things I have done. I hope to accomplish this goal within the next few months. A few of my hindrances include the money it will take to buy the turkey and the fact that I only have a little hibatche grill… but, all in all, this is a very doable goal!

See more progress on: Grill a turkey

I know I am a writer because...

2006-01-28T00:07:00.000-05:00

When I am in the midst of the most tense and awkward situation, I think to myself, Dang, this would make a great story someday. I bet I can reinact it verbally in a way that will bring the reader the same tears that I am crying right now.

43 Things

2006-01-26T11:52:00.000-05:00

Someday I will write about...

2006-01-26T10:30:00.000-05:00

1. The pre and post conversation to "I'm sorry I yelled, but that just reinforces bad behavior."

2. The pre and post conversation to "There will be no penciling!"

3. The time I redefined the term idiot by assuming that I was being manipulated... Never assume.

4. Or maybe... "I like movies with Tom Cruise!"

It's been a looooong week. And the insanity continues as I now I have less than 24 hours to put together a murder mystery for 40+ jr high kids.

I am Seriously Considered the Following

2006-01-25T23:26:00.000-05:00

Shooting a few good men with my top gun because I am seriously having one of those days (of thunder)...

Not quite as subtle as our previously mentioned GQ, but it will *have* to do!!!

Galaxy Quest

2006-01-24T23:04:00.000-05:00

Galaxy Quest? I don't even think that deserves a comment! Oh my goodness! What's next? Space Balls? Seriously, at that point I may seriously consider jumping the NCIS ambulance looking vehicle. That is all I have to say.

P.S. I may consider a slight redemption considering the Tolkein reference... if that can even be considered a JRR ref...

P.P.S. What's a wing nut?

Sarah JOY

2006-01-22T00:39:00.000-05:00

Today I am going to write in my very favorite color of all times... red!

And Mom, please no comments on the time. I even promise that I WILL be up in time for church in the morning :)

I was reminded and am continuing to be reminded via various friends/family in my life of John 16: 22. "Therefore you too now have sorrow; but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and NO ONE TAKES YOUR JOY AWAY FROM YOU." Ps. 30:5 reiterates it a bit, "...Weeping may last for the night, But a shout of JOY comes in the morning."

I really like the first one though, because LITERALLY no one can take my joy from me. I almost think that God knew that I would need the middle name of Joy for that purpose alone. Hmm... God knows about figurative language and irony? Odd...

So, thanks, Mom, for giving me my middle name. And thanks, God, for allowing no one to ever take away my JOY.

Off to read a sappy book (with my new booklight of course!)

--Sarah JOY

Thankfulness

2006-01-19T23:42:00.000-05:00

Right now... I am just happy to be me. I am happy that it is January 19th and I didn't eat any candy today. I am happy that it is January 19th and I haven't cried all day. I am happy that I can write... and watch a million episodes of Gilmore Girls or taped episodes of NCIS.

I am happy to the point of tears. But, I am *not* going to cry.

Hail to the Victors

2006-01-18T15:44:00.001-05:00

And today, folks, the color of choice (or colour, if you're from the other side of the ocean) is aMazin' blue... in honor, of course, of U of M. That's Michigan, for all you out of staters. Not Memphis. And most definately not Maryland. Or any other "M" state.

Due to the fact that the powers that be over at a little TV show named NCIS decided to dress Tony in OSU gear the ENTIRE show, I chose to wear U of M clothes today. As they say, paybacks are... well, like getting your teeth ripped out by a polar bear, or something like that.

Okay show... not my favorite. It did have some funny parts, ie: the Tony/Ziva slap. Two for the price of one! Woot! Gibbs/Abby interaction was fairly up to par. And Tony was a crackhead as usual.

I would also like to aptly point out that OSU only won in the last few seconds of the game. And... I will humbly admit that it was a good game this year. We were close. But, going back to MI being the best... We let you win. :)

Hail to the victors!

--Sarah

2006-01-12T15:29:00.000-05:00

Bet you've all been wondering where I have been the past few weeks. Honestly? So have I. I probably have a serious case of jet lag. Then again, maybe not. I am pretty sure one can only get jet lag from riding on jets... or at least sometime of air craft. I wonder if astronauts ever get jet lag. Hmmm... now there is a question for NASA.

Oooh! I just thought of a great TV show idea. They should have a NCIS-esque NASA. Notice, I did not say CSI. Don't get me wrong, CSI makes for great dinner conversation, or even better pillow talk (well, wouldn't really know on that last one), but it just isn't my cup of coffee.

Tomorrow, Friday, for all of you New Englanders, I am going to a celebratory dinner at the Hayes'. Wendy is cooking dinner because I did very well on the GRE, specifically the writing portion. I will be signing a few autographs there, so please reserve your ticked for the red carpet event. Actually, I am really having dinner because Wendy is Wendy and very sweet like that. I don't think she knows Peter Pan, though.

Umm... let me see. I have a Relay for Life meeting tonight. I am excited about being involved in RFL Vermont style. Although, RFL Len Co. is twenty times better and at least forty times bigger!

Oh, I met a new friend the other day. Not sure what I really think about him. He tends to be a bit... domineering... for lack of a better word. Basically, he is like a girl--if he doesn't get his way, he throws a temper tantrum and refuses to talk to me. Maybe we won't be friends... I don't really know. Just because he confuses me so much. That was random, I know. But, I have been needing to vent about it.

Well, gotta go milk a cow.

Oreos and Pepsi, Sarah

Well, well, well...

2005-12-20T11:54:00.000-05:00

Guess who is going to grad school? Well... I suppose I should say, guess who did well on her GRE?

That would be me!!! Wee! I am so happy.

And now we wait. Yes, sadly, there will be much waiting, wailing, and gnashing of teeth (and possibly neurotic gnawing on furniture) until I find out if I am good enough for the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. However, as my boss, John, so elegantly stated, I am now an official member of the "Performance Based Acceptance Club". In fact, I am vice president. To which I promptly replied (with my infamous impish grin) "Why can't I be President?"

Well thanks for all of you who were praying.

I am one step closer to becoming... a librarian! (Think, The Mummy)

Rules and Regulations... and Random Ramblings based on (of course) NCIS

2005-12-14T13:25:00.000-05:00

I don't know how well orange goes with pink...

But, since the hair stylists on NCIS have no idea how to style hair, I have earned the privilege of putting orange with pink. Speaking of--Goodness! What was up with Madam Director's hair? Before any of the actors/actresses began their dialogue about her hair, my friends and I started discussing it. Conclusion--someone was attacked by furry woodland creatures on the way to the set!

Ziva rocks my boat. As does Abby. And Gibbs.

Tony is crackhead.

Question of the night: Is McGee cute? My answer: cute in a little boy/brother way, yes. Cute in a dating way? Ummm... not so much.

And now... the long awaited for list of Gibbs' rules. And the even more awaited for responses (compliments of yours truly). Gibbs will be in BLUE... and I will be in ORANGE.

1. Never let suspects stay together.
You never know when they might decide to order out for pizza.

2. Always wear gloves at a crime scene.
In case it snows and you need to make a snowman. And name it Parson Brown.

3. Don't believe what you're told. Double check.
Really, this is just common sense. Even Santa double checks.

4.Never say you're sorry.
Unless you're playing Spoons...

5. You never work the system when you can work the people.
Amen and amen!

6. The secret of a good bluff is not to bluff.
"Me, I'm dishonest, and you can always trust a dishonest man to be dishonest. Honestly, it's the honest ones you want to watch out for, 'cause you can never predict if they're going to do something incredibly stupid."--Cap'n Jack Sparrow.

7. You cannot let personal situations color your judgement.
Although in certain situations, it may not be a bad idea to shade them with a tint of grey. By the way... is it grey or gray?

8. Romance between agents never works.
Wouldn't know...

9. Never go anywhere without a knife.
Especially when you live on a farm and your dad asks you to pull out the Swiss Army knife that he gave you to cut the binder twine on the hay bale that you are working with and to hurry. Or if you need to do your nails.

23. Never mess wtih a marine's coffee if you want to live.
Heck, never mess with MY coffee if you want to live.

"Yes... No... Yes?"

2005-12-01T11:01:00.001-05:00

Once again, I have managed to fulfill the meaning of the term "dork".

I have been working *very* hard on answering questions well and specifically. This was all going along very well until the other day when a fairly decent blunder completely threw me off.

Sadly... I had a conversation that went something like this (the details are a bit fuzzy now, as I have tried desperately to lose the traumatic memories):

Person X: "So, are you mad at me?"

Me: "No... Ye... No... I don't know... No... Sort of... Well, yea... No." What I was thinking: Heck yes, I am mad!

Person X: "Do you realize that you just said 'Yes, no, yes, no... all in one sentence?'"

Me: "Uh..."

***Later on... Same conversation***

Me (Read, trying desperately to save face): "I'm really not being stubborn on purpose."

Person X: "So then why are you being stubborn?"

Me: "I don't know... I'll let God tell you that one."

Conclusion: Yep... most definately a dork. Though, some would argue a 'brat'... and that I cannot fully deny either.

Jesus, Take the Wheel

2005-11-23T11:21:00.000-05:00

Artist/Band: Underwood, Carrie Lyrics for Song: Jesus, Take The WheelLyrics for Album: Some Hearts

She was driving last Friday on her way to Cincinnati
On a snow white Christmas Eve
Going home to see her Mama and her Daddy with the baby in the backseat Fifty miles to go and she was running low on faith and gasoline
It been a long hard year
She had a lot on her mind and she didn't pay attention
She was going way to fast
Before she knew it she was spinning on a thin black sheet of glass
She saw both their lives flash before her eyes
She didn't even have time to cry
She was sooo scared
She threw her hands up in the air

Jesus take the wheel
Take it from my hands
Cause I can't do this all on my own
I'm letting go
So give me one more chance
To save me from this road I'm on
Jesus take the wheel

It was still getting colder when she made it to the shoulder
And the car came to a stop
She cried when she saw that baby in the backseat sleeping like a rock
And for the first time in a long time
She bowed her head to pray
She said I'm sorry for the way I've been living my life
I know I've got to change
So from now on tonight

Jesus take the wheel
Take it from my hands
Cause I can't do this all my own I'm letting go
So give me one more chance
To save me from this road I'm on
Oh, Jesus take the wheel
Oh, I'm letting go
So give me one more chance
Save me from this road I'm on

Tribute to Secret Window

2005-11-23T10:50:00.000-05:00

Take my life, and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.Take my moments and my days; let them flow in ceaseless praise.Take my hands, and let them move at the impulse of Thy love.Take my feet, and let them be swift and beautiful for Thee.

Take my voice, and let me sing always, only, for my King.Take my lips, and let them be filled with messages from Thee.Take my silver and my gold; not a mite would I withhold.Take my intellect, and use every power as Thou shalt choose.

Take my will, and make it Thine; it shall be no longer mine.Take my heart, it is Thine own; it shall be Thy royal throne.Take my love, my Lord, I pour at Thy feet its treasure store.Take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for Thee.

Whew! I am totally and completely in love with the writers of NCIS. I may marry them some day. All of them. I will have a little brothel in Vermont.

Seriously, last night's ep was wicked awesome! Unfortunately, I didn't get to see all of it because I came back late from worship practice in a blizzard with one head light. And, yes, I ended up in the ditch. I hate winter. But, that is beside the point...

From what I did see--Gosh darn! I wish I could write that way. I have my moments. The problem is, no one sees it except for me and maybe a few other crazy people out there who actually read this blog. Maybe I shouldn't wish that I could write for someone else, because when someday I might be writing for someone else, and I will just be hoping and praying that I could get back to writing for myself and I will regret my wish now. Of course, if I keep writing run on sentences like that, I will be living in a van down by the river for the rest of my life as we know it.

Lately, I have been dabbling in poetry. I am not a poet, but Mike's death has had me trying new things--the words just tumble out. Maybe I will post it here someday.

Back to the topic at hand: Tony's psychological break down of sorts and the drum scene were my favorite. I was reverting to Secret window when Tony was doing his thing. Too bad Tony isn't Johnny Depp. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy Michael Weatherly asthetically and all, but JD is beautiful :) And the drum scene--wow! I am told that it was taken from a group called The Blue Man Group. I haven't researched this, so I could be wrong. What I am not wrong about--HECK TO THE YES ON THE MAGNUM REFERENCE!!! I loved it.

Well, have to go--you know work and all that good stuff.

Until next NCIS,

Sarah

Is that a spider?

2005-11-14T22:02:00.000-05:00

Green looks like a pretty color to type in today. In fact, I am in a rather "green" mood. Green is way better than yesterday's mood. Yesterday was more like flaming red. Or as the children would say, "I was flippin' pissed off."

But... enough about me. Let's hear about you.

Just kidding. 'Cause you can't really respond (well, except in the comment section). I mean right now, as I am typing, you can't respond. Okay, I digress.

***

About ten minutes ago a HUGE spider (I think it was a spider--didn't get close enough to inspect it) crawled across my floor and settled next to the couch. So, I leaped off the couch (think Matrix/Tomb Raider/Mission Impossible/Napolean Dynamite moves) on the other end barely avoiding a near fatal collision with my newly formed woodland creature-friend.

Of course, by this time, all of my stuff was on the other end of the couch. So I stealthily grabbed the blanket I had been using (my roommate's of course) and threw it on the moose... I mean, spider. And then I stood, breathing heavily, in the laundry room. Finally, I asked myself, "What would Jesus do?" Not really... but I just got back from Revolve and I am feeling hyped on faith.

I decided that I would get a location on the spider. So, using military speak in my sneaker phone, I slowly sneaked up on him and whipped the blanket off. He was still there, a bit shorter and scrunched, but most definately alive.

Still, I needed my computer and my faithful GRE book. Grabbing my computer by the cord, I pulled it towards my new found location on the floor and conveniently placed it as a barrier between me and the scary spider. Then, I grabbed my book, Bic pen, and Staples highlighter and continued to watch the spider/learn how to write a 5-6 point essay for the GRE.

Finally, the spider gimped off... possibly to my bedroom. I am not really sure I want to know.

After the spider left, I decided to check my e-mail. Apparently, Tammy Trent and Pauley Perrette check their e-mail at the same time, because I got replies from both of them within a matter of seconds. Cool, huh?

So, to end, I leave you with a question that I am wrestling with: Do I become depressed because there is no NCIS tomorrow... or do I have a part-Y because I get to see Kenny Chesney sing in tight jeans? I am really broken up about this one, guys and girls!

G'nigt John Boy!

P.S. There are some difficult things going on in my life at the moment, but I am choosing to not talk about them here, though I usually do most of my venting here. This stuff is deeper than pounding away at my computer. Although, typing is VERY therapeuatic :) So, pray for me you all!

P.P.S. The spider is back.

Wicked Crazy Day

2005-11-08T21:37:00.000-05:00

5:53 Wake up (somewhat grumpily, I might add)

6-7 something: shower, dress, eat, devos, tea, grab lunch, make copies for speech class.

7:45-8:30 Staff Mtg

8:30-2:30 Teach lovely teens

2:30-2:50 Follow-Up staff mtg

2:55-3:05 Change clothes

3:05-3:20ish Drive to Hayes'

3:20-4:30 Dog Training (I think I am getting better!!!)

4:30-4:50 Drive back

4:50-5:30 Shower, change, eat

5:30-6:00 Drive to church, tune violin

6:00-7:30 (we got out early, generally we go to 8) Worship Practice

7:30-7:45 Drive to Hash's

7:45-9:00 Watch end of ET and NCIS

9:00-9:10 Drive Home

9:10-Now Check e-mail and blog

And now I have to go study for the GRE. I have given up on the idea of sleep. I never sleep. I am a caffeine addict and I never sleep. Really, it's great. No, really I am fine.

Pray for me... this whole dog training thing is really stressing me out. I am not perfect at it; therefore, I am pissed at myself. I hate not being perfect. I do everything perfectly. Well, not everything... but, most everything!!! I just don't want to be a failure.

Love you all,

Sarah

I am not a Jew. I don't like pork.

2005-11-03T21:36:00.000-05:00

So today I had a conversation with my roommate. It went like this:

Me: "Is that pork?"

Unidentified Student #1: "Yes. It taste's like crap."

Me: "I agree. It taste's like crap. Don't get me wrong, I like it. But it taste's like crap. You know... 'piggy'."

US1: "Yeah."

Roommate who is obsessed with being right ALL THE TIME: "You just ate ham the other day. How is ham any different from pork?"

Me: Silence... Because there is no way I am going to win this argument even if I try.

Roommate: "Sarah? You just ate ham the other day. How is ham any different from pork?"

Me: See above.

Roommate: Proceeds to continune on tirade about how ham is not pork but pork is ham or vice versa.

Me: Not even pretending to care about the existential qualities of ham or pork or spam (or should I say "spic and spam?"). I just used four punctuation marks in one place. I didn't know that was grammatically possible!

I think that my future boss, Don, should use this in his next episode of NCIS. It was thrilling.

So does anyone else understand the idea that ham tastes different than pork? Or is that just me? Comments? Questions? Need to contact the NRA?

The Border Battle

2005-11-02T18:05:00.000-05:00

Okay, it's November my peeps, and we all know what that means, right?

The count down begins to THE BIGGEST and THE BEST and THE BRUTALIST game in the history of mankind. Yes, that's right--it's the official Ohio State vs University of Michigan football game. Mwahahaha! And of course, U of M will win!

U of M winning is as obvious as peas and carrots, Santa Clause and Christmas, saxophones in a jazz band, Calvinism and predestination, and (of course) Gibbs and Abby.

By the way, I officially hate Tony, as (according to my future boss, Donald) he was a graduate of OSU. It hurts to even type those letters in connection with each other. In fact, I think I have just recently developed a severe, and possibly life threatening, case of toe nail fungus.

Well, off to study for the GRE. Wish me luck!!!

Would NCIS be phonetically pronounced Nickis?

2005-10-31T21:53:00.000-05:00

I decided to write in black and bold today to honor a new friend of mine. Okay, she isn't really a new friend... actually, she is approximately at the level of friendship that Harm and I were at. In other words, her entire existence is non-existent. Wierd, eh?

So, have you figured out who it is?

Okay, here are some multiple choice answers for you:

a) Harm

b) The General

c) The Admiral

d) Steven Culp (Sorry, still can't bring myself to say "Clay" or "Webb")

e) Abby

(Hint: Notice any feminine characteristics in any of the names?)

Yup, it's Abby. Her and Gibbs crack me up, and I don't mean like an egg. Although, I do like a mean scrambled egg with cheddar cheese and salsa...but, I digress.

Officer David is also an interesting addition to the show. I love her random expressions that she messes up all the time. It reminds me of teaching my ESL students. Half the time they will be speaking to me in English, and then randomly another language pops out and they have no idea they were speaking it. Gotta love 'em.

Although my future boss, Don, said that he didn't want NCIS to be like JAG, there have been a lot of references! IE: Mikey:) And of course we can't forget the ever present Magnum reference.

Well, I am going to keep it short and sweet tonight.

So, on behalf of all Speedwell Mini-Mart's

--HAPPY HOLLOWEEN--

Bruhahahaha!!!!!

P.S. I must say that I particularly enjoy it when David puts Gibbs in his place. The whole elevator thing two weeks ago was absolutely hysterical! I think I busted a kidney, I was laughing so hard.

P.P.S Can you bust kidneys?

And finally... check out the link below. Scoffield or Thomson may shift in their graves a bit, but it has decent writing.

http://www.pauleyp.com/blog/

:) Pheeling Photographic :)

2005-08-26T00:15:00.000-04:00

Can you tell I like fireworks?

My boss looking studious

(Shhh! She'd fire me if she knew this picture was posted)

Really... I am not a pyro

Isn't she adorable? She's my friend, Destiny

Life After JAG

2005-08-17T17:02:00.000-04:00

Well, well, well... it has been a while, hasn't it? Life after JAG has definately been interesting and quite fulfilling (although, I must admit that I am still drooling over Belisario's NCIS :) Hee hee hee). I will try to update you on the past few months of my life while keeping it entertaining.

1. Hiking. These are my newly acquired hiking friends (l to r): Sarah, Debbie, and Rachel. We hiked a ridiculous amount of mountain, only to have to leave before we made it to the top of the stupid thing. I was quite agrivated! I am quite sure that I would rather build a suspension bridge that was only suspended on one side and skip gayly over it than hike a mountain again.

2. Soul Fest Soul Fest is a Christian concert (think Christian Woodstock... actually, it was held in a place called Gunstock) that lasts for 6 days. They have many concerts and many stages all located on a mountain. Unfortunately, I didn't get to stay for the whole thing, but I was able to catch a Third Day concert and I got to meet Paul Colman. Also, PC was able to leave a message on my friend Melissa's voice mail. I was quite happy with how that worked out!

Check out the pictures of Third Day. I think that you can see his nose hairs in this one!!!

3. Of course, the 4th of July is my favorite holiday. Unfortunately, I did not get to spend it with my family this year. But, I did get to take really cool pictures with my digital camera! These are what fireworks look like in Vermont :) I had more...but I deleted them in the process of trying to organize this whole thing. Ah well...

It's been fun and I hope everyone's summer has gone by filled with fun and excitement.

Signing out another year older,

Sarah

Wireless Internet and Umberto Eco

2005-05-08T23:28:00.000-04:00

My job just got wireless internet and I am sooo excited! I am most definately going to stay here for the next ten or so years. Well, perhaps not. But, it definately gives me an incentive boost for a while. It's cool how God provides even the little things that really aren't needed :)

JAG ended... I have no comments.

But, on another happy note--I have discovered the world of Umberto Eco. He is great even though I have only read the first 12 pages of his book. I am definately in love. I might even agree to bear his children at some point. But, probably not. Ah well.

Leviticus... is a very boring book

2005-04-18T00:14:00.000-04:00

Since JAG is coming to a very sad (though probably much needed) demise, I decided that I need to reprioritize my life. Okay, actually, JAG ending has nothing to do with the decision that I made a few weeks ago. What was this decision, you may be asking? I decided to read through the whole Bible... a very daunting task, to say the least.

I have read through the New Testament in my CF2 class at CU, but now I am learning about the Old Testament. It's wierd, because even though I know that God is the same "yesterday, today, and forever," I feel as if He was somehow more detached in OT times. It's really wierd.

For example, Moses was just walking around, chilling in the desert when God said "Boom! This is the way it's going to be." Now, does this mean that I need to be living my life and then one day God will say, "Boom! This is the way it's going to be?" Or... do I trust in the God, Jesus, of the New Testament when He has a personal relationship with people? I know a new covenant has been made, but it is really difficult for me to trust that Jesus is my friend when I am learning about the God of the OT. Am I really that shaky in my faith?

Hmm...

I think I need to go to sleep! And sadly, I still have to prepare for English Lit. tomorrow--junk!

Would you like fries with that?

2005-04-02T22:19:00.000-05:00

Yes, it is true, folks... I officially have two jobs. During the day, I lead a normal life teaching troubled teens syntax, grammar, literature, procreation, and other such much needed information for teenagers. But, during the night I lead an entirely different life as a deli worker. I slice meats and cheese, all in the name of love.

My "plan" (I say this lightly because most often things don't work out as I plan them) is to work until I am thirty--I don't know if I will continue to live in Vermont. However, eventually, I would like to go back to get my master's degree. I would love to continue with my education sooner than thirty, but at the rate I am going in the paying off of my undergraduate school bill I really don't see how it would be possible for me to enroll any sooner than that. Plus, I think it will give me some time to grow up and figure out what I really want/what God really wants me to do with my life. At the moment I am still holding out for screenwriting... but, God could have entirely different plans.

Don't forget to set your clocks ahead tonight folks!

I really don't have anything else to say. I thought that I would have a lot to say since I haven't written in a while.

This is totally random, but I am beginning to realize that JAG does not want me as a screenwriter. Unfortunately... I must surpass their expectations--I am too good for them. Ah well. They don't know what they're missing. Suckers.

Anyway... I hope everyone has a happy month of April! Live long and prosper!

Oh and one more thing, I am now a published poet! The life of a writer never ceases to amaze me :)

Terri Schindler-Schivo

2005-03-17T22:29:00.000-05:00

Let Terri Live!

I know I haven't posted in a while... life has been hectic to say the least. Even tonight, I am not going to be long because I don't want this post to be about me...

There is a young woman in Florida who needs our prayers tonight. The judge made a decision ruling against the appeal the afternoon. Her feeding tube comes out tomorrow afternoon. For all intents and purposes she is competent. Most likely, she would never get up and start walking around or doing the Hokey Pokey... but, she is alive (aka: NO RESPIRATORS!). She is only hooked to a feeding tube.

Please, pray for Terri and her family.

Sanctimonious and Priggish

2005-02-23T20:19:00.000-05:00

Last week's episode of JAG was... interesting. Here are my observations:

1. Mr. As The World Turns guy needs to get the airplane out of his butt and realize that Harm is the only one that makes the world turn (as I cringe, praying that God doesn't strike me with lightning).

2. Sanctimonious and Priggish... the writer's need to work on their adjectives. Sturgis already called Mac those not so endearing terms.

I would have more, but my hand still hurts from my sanctimonious sledding saga. How's that for alliteration?

Finally, I have a quote, compliments of one of my kids (and, yes, they are my kids, right JB?): "Why do they call it a statement when it is more than one sentence? Wouldn't it be called a lot of statements?"

Merely a Flesh Wound (And I'm Not Talking "Grace Life")

2005-02-16T23:45:00.000-05:00

Due to rumors that have been flying (namely in planes used for the purpose therein of crop dusting), I must inform you all that I have a bad case of writer's block. However, I assure you that this is not mental writer's block... it is physical. Unfortunately, I had a sort of "crash landing" into some trees and other shrub-looking obstacles. Two broken bones in my hand were incurred during the incident. Therefore, I have been "grounded" and the aircraft (aka: sled) used in flight will be retired to the woodshed for the time being. I will also not be writing for a while because it is rather difficutlt to type one handed...

At least I can still read "smut"!!!

Cap'n Jack Sparrow (Oops! Ramsey)/A Party at ABC?

2005-02-04T23:03:00.000-05:00

Let me start with tonight's episode before I flip about a certain crackheaded rumor that may or may not be true.

1. Captain Jack Ramsey? One of the producers has been watching Pirate's of the Caribbean one too many times. Not that I am complaining... I enjoy the movie. But c'mon! Let's get a little more creative with the names here, okay?

2. "If the Red Sox can win the series, then anything can happen!" Obviously, someone hates Boston. Now, while I am not partial to the greater New England area, I do live here currently. Therefore, I feel the need to defend the infamous Red Sox by saying that they played better than season ten of JAG!

3. Did someone from costume forget to go to the dry cleaners? If I ever see Harm in a turban again, I am going to wear ashes and sit in my fire place. Oh wait... I don't have a fire place. Hmm...

And now...

David, we need to have a serious heart-to-heart. Let me explain something to you. You cannot leave until I have written at least ONE episode for JAG. After that, you and Steven can go have a party with all of your new ABC friends. While I will not necessarily approve of your choice, I will eventually manage to stop mourning and move on with life. Until then, I leave you with one question... WHAT THE H*** ARE YOU THINKING?

God, Court Martials, and JAG

2005-02-03T17:57:00.000-05:00

Lately, during discipleship class my students have been discussing the topic of freedom. Today, specifically, they were discussing free will (insert: My boss, Bruce, is a very brave man!!!). Anyway, hilarity ensued (or something akin to it) when one of my students claimed that following God was like joining the Navy:

"Yes, you get the benefits but, once you're in... you're in. And if you leave you get court martialed, and JAG steps in, and it's all down hill from there!"

Wicked Bummed

2005-01-31T18:22:00.000-05:00

Well... here I am in Vermont, and to be totally honest I am so upset today! Today was just a bad day in general because I had one of my students tell me that I couldn't teach. I know that I am accepted in Christ no matter what, but it sucks when the kids can just get you where it hurts the most.

But then there is the thing that keeps coming back to get me: I want to screenwriter. However, I also know that I need to be where God wants me. Therefore, if God doesn't want me to be a screenwriter then I will do what He wants. I know that, ultimately, what He wants will make me the most happy--but that bites! God and I had a long conversation about this in my car today and we didn't really get anywhere, except that I chose to take up my cross and follow Him. As a Christian (someone who is crucified in Christ... it is no longer I who lives but Christ who lives in me), I have the freedom to choose to say no. However, I know that if I choose to say no I will never truly be happy. I don't understand why I still feel like I am searching. Is it because I am not in Heaven? Will I always be searching until I get to Heaven?

Further, sometimes I wish that I wasn't a Christian because then I could just run off to Cali and get my MFA in screenwriting and make my connections and make it in the business. Of course, if I write sentences like that the farthest I will make it is to the nearest Micky D's.

I seriously hope that someone from JAG actually reads my letter and takes it into consideration. I know that is a really dumb thing to wish for and that I should be focused on world peace or the betterment of myself, but that isn't what I want. I want to be selfish and focus on me and my wants and my desires. I am tired of doing what God wants even though I know it is the only way.

WHY?!?!?!?!? Grr!!! I hate always being the "good little Christian girl!" I absolutely hate it!

I want to move to California.

I want to be a screenwriter for JAG.

I want... I want... I want...

Not God wants...

Yes, I know that I am living out of my flesh right now. But, don't I have the freedom to do that if I really want to? Of course, but I need to set my mind on things above and not on things on earth.

Just pray for me... pray that I learn to trust God even in Vermont.

Somewhere in California and Hitchcock's Rebecca

2005-01-22T15:03:00.000-05:00

Today I predict that my letter is somewhere in California. I am guessing that it will actually reach JAG HQ (Headquarters, for those initially impaired) by Monday. After Monday it will probably sit with thousands of other letters to be sorted through and it won't even be considered (except by me and those anxious few who read my blog... okay, really just by me) until the end of March.

Enough with those depressing thoughts.

I am so excited! I splurged and bought Alfred Hitchcock's Rebecca (Yes, I know I am supposed to italicize, but, alas, my old school computer doesn't have that option). Anyway, Rebecca is actually a book that Coates references in last night's episode, specifically in regards to Manderley, the place that Webb ran off to. I normally don't act on impulse like that, but I figured that I needed to. My movie collection is very poor anyway, and I need to upgrade. I'll let you all know when I get it and review it here after I watch it.

I learned how to ski on Wednesday. Our school entered a program that consists of taking our kids to Burke Mountain to learn how to ski. As a chaperone, I was allowed to go for free. It was a thrilling experience, especially considering that I had never gone before--I absolutely loved it! I made it to J-bar level last week. I am hoping that by the end of our five weeks I will have gone on the ski lift at least once.

Otherwise, nothing noteworthy is happening in Vermont. Just pray for my letter!

That said, "Good Morning Vietnam!!!" Oh... I mean, have a great day everyone!

Your's Truly, Sarah

A Joke

2005-01-19T22:28:00.000-05:00

Here is a little something to pass the time away, while we wait patiently for my letter to enter California:

A screenwriter comes home to a burned-down house. His sobbing wife is standing outside. "What happened, honey?" he asks.

"Oh, John, it was terrible," she weeps. "I was cooking when the phone rang. It was your agent. Because I was on the phone, I didn't notice the stove had caught on fire. It went up in seconds. Everything is gone. I barely made it out of the house alive..."

"Wait! Back up a minute," the man says. "My agent called?"

Day One: I Sent My Letter

2005-01-19T22:11:00.000-05:00

Well, it is official. I am legally insane, and I no longer have the letter to prove it. Actually, I do have the letter. In fact, I have a copy of the letter on my computer. However, a second copy of the letter was given away, along with the rest of what was left of my sanity.

It all started with moving to Vermont--nowhere near Cali, where I really want to be.

And then... I decided to do something about where I wanted to be. I wrote a letter to CBS explaining why I wanted to write at least one episode for them. Am I crazy? Perhaps, but I would like to believe that my insanity is going to get me somewhere in life.

I am going to trust God with the outcome of that letter. He knows what is best for me and for the ministry that I am at. He knows if I need to work here until I am 84.5 (orignally, it was 83, but the gas prices just went up again). God knows, and while I often struggle wtih being okay with that, I also know that that is okay. I am still okay with Him and He will still direct me to where I need to be at any particular time. I can only hope and pray that this letter somehow fits into that mix.

Seeing as how I mentioned my blog in the letter, I have decided to keep a track record of where the letter could possibly be at any given moment. Tonight, I predict that it is flying over the state of Wisconsin.

Anxiously awaiting the arrivial of the repsonse of my letter...

Q: "Do you know why I pulled you over tonight?"

2005-01-04T01:58:00.000-05:00

A: "Probably because I was speeding."

Yes, that is correct, folks. Tonight I got pulled over for going 50 in a 35. As I was sitting in my parents van waiting for the policeman to do whatever policemen do with your license, registration, and proof of insurance, I had a little conversation with God.

The conversation went something like this:

Me: "Please, please, PLEASE don't let me get a speeding ticket."

God:

Me: "You know... if I get a speeding ticket I won't have enough money to pay for my teaching certificate."

God:

Me: "So... you could give me a speeding ticket and then I wouldn't HAVE to get my teaching certificate."

God:

Officer: "Here is your license and information."

Me: "You're not giving me a ticket?" (I think at this point I sounded like I was about to wet my pants).

Very Nice Officer: "No tickets. Drive Safely."

Me: "Uh huh" (At this point I did wet my pants)

God:

Me: "So... I suppose that means that I have to get my teaching certificate, eh?"

God:

Yup, it was most definately a meaningful conversation. But, I really would like to thank the lovely policeman who chose to not give me a ticket! It really made me think about grace. The next time I give one of my students a demerit I will most definately remember tonight. And, perhaps, for one day I will be known as the Demerit Princess instead of the Demerit Queen.

P.S. "Little spooksters running around mumbling into their sneaker phones..." Did you really think I would leave you with nothing about JAG?

P.P.S. I am going to take a moment for word-of-mouth publicity: http://www.dogearpublishing.net. You guys crack me up like a broken femur in my left aorta ventricle!!!

P.P.P.S. Dan Brown and I have a date now.

The end!

Christmas Break

2004-12-28T22:18:00.000-05:00

As of this post, I have survived five days and one evening with the fam. It has been a grand adventure really including, but not limited to, two family Christmas's, two shopping trips, three pieces of pumpkin pie, one piece of apple pie, and a partridge in a pear tree. Quite fun!

There really hasn't been anything too exciting as of date to write about. However, as a writer, my job is to make non-exciting things sound exciting. I will do my best to comply to your literary pallet.

On Thursday evening, I will leave for Battle Creek, MI where I will attend the wedding of a friend. The wedding isn't until Saturday, but we are going to be enjoying her last moments as a single. I am excited about being able to reconnect with old friends due to my recent move to Vermont.

After the wedding I will drive to Grand Rapids, MI where I will hang out with my friends there. I also hope to make my first visit to Cornerstone University since they denied me my teaching certificate. Any confrontations with certain professors will be entirely God ordained. Although, I am contemplating making a visit to a certain "Anti-Christ." Hmmm... not really. Is it sad that I call my old professors names such as those? I can only hope that the worst I get is "The Demerit Queen." I do hope to see my old boss, Dr. N., though. That will be cool.

Okay, this is really crappy writing. I have been on a writing "bla" as of late. But, I have been reading a lot to compensate. Speaking of reading, my sister is illiterate. She can't read. Okay, not really. Her lowest score on a proficiency test showed her lowest score was reading. To make up for it, she is reading as much as possible. Johanna and reading would be like having Pepsi on cereal. It just doesn't happen. I am very proud that she is taking the initiative to improve (says the mature teacher side of me); but if this keeps up I am going to wet my pants (says the she's my baby sister side of me).

Ta Ta For Now!!!

P.S. Merry Christmas, Jessica!

P.P.S Merry Christmas, every one else!!!

"What do you mean I have to cite my sources?"

2004-12-10T23:43:00.001-05:00

The previous question is the one that I think I got asked the most today. Currently, my speech students are working on speeches (duh) and they don't seem to comprehend the whole concept of PLAGARISM!!! Grr!!!

Okay, on to newer and better topics (by a vote of 3 to 1 according to my multiple personalities).

My thoughts on JAG:

1. I would just like to remind all ya'll that yes, my thoughts are valid. I am going to screenwrite for JAG some day. And don't even think about telling me that this is their last season--I will flip!

2. Dialogue was okay. Had a few zippy lines in there that I really appreciated. My favorite was most definately the line about there being quite a difference between "Going from a spook chasing spies to a PI chasing cheating housewives..." Can we say total diss on my buddy Stephen's newest program? I love it when they throw those things in :) Yay, JAG writers!!!

3. What the crack! Does everyone on this show have father issues! Get over it already--I am seriously ready to drown myself in ink... red ink to be specific, because as a teacher that is the only type of ink I use.

4. Next week's episode looks really good. Of course, the producers have to have a great Christmas episode. It is written in the "Protocoal for All TV Shows" manual. I hope Zito writes it and Coen produces or exec. produces. They always manage to have the best eps with that combination.

5. Is it REALLY sad that I know this information?

6. Do TPTB(the powers that be) of JAG really read this blog? It would be cool if they did.

7. Does anyone really read this blog? It would be cool if they did.

Okay, that is all I have for tonight. I hope ya'll have a GREAT day!!!

2004-12-10T20:26:00.000-05:00

Guess what TV show is on tonight???

2004-12-10T20:21:00.000-05:00

What do you think they are looking at in this picture? A) Birds flying in the distance, B) Christa's Mom, C) My writing, or D) Pepsi and M&M's.

You know you have been watching JAG too long when...

2004-11-21T21:07:00.000-05:00

1. You refer to your closest male friend as "sailor" even though he is a computer science major.

2. You hum the JAG theme song when out in public just in case one of the characters or a producer happens to walk by.

3. Friday nights from 8:00-11:00 are blocked out as JAG time (yes, even though the show is only on from 9:00-10:00... I need time to prepare before and vent afterwards!!!).

4. You steal quotes from the show and use them on your coworkers and/or students (FYI: The latter tend to have a hard time grasping what you are saying).

5. When a scene in the show calls for someone to rewind a tape and play it back in slow motion (as in this weeks "Camp Delta"), you find the spot in the show before the characters realized that this could be done in order to see if you can do the same thing.

6. You find out that number five really does work!

7. Your blog's name is "Future JAG Screenwriter"

8. Your dog's name is "Future JAG Screenwriter"

9. You begin to seriously consider joining the Navy in order to become part of JAG (FYI: This is not recommended. My college roommate just took a class on the LSAT--in order to GET IN TO law school--and she claims that older men have been heard "prayin for their mamma's" because it was so hard. Also, apparently when 7+the square root of Aunt Ethel's fruitcake-your dog's purple sweater vest=The Capital of Japan is Your Mom).

and... last but not least...

10. When Harm says (and here I paraphrase) "Your Honor, Prosecution is going on a fishing expedition... this would work if it was a senate hearing and not a court marshall"... You remember that a few weeks ago there was an episode about a father/son fishing expidition and a senate hearing, compliments of our new friend Maj. Gen. Gordon Creswell.

P.S. To any JAG producers out there who happen to be reading this: PLEASE HIRE ME NOW. Who else would realize such things as #'s 5,6, and 10? Exactly. So what are you waiting for? Let's burry the hatchet and head on out. Oh wait, that's supposed to be let's make like a baby and head on out... hmmm... Well, you get my drift, yes?

The Devil has Enough Advocates

2004-11-20T18:07:00.000-05:00

The title of this post is my offical quote of the day. Can anyone guess which TV show it comes from? Hmmm... probably the ONLY show that I watch: JAG.

I thought that this quote represented the philosophical values and constitutions that our country values and upholds... yada yada yada... In reality, I just thought it was a good quote.

Thoughts about last nights episode:

1). The Army chic needed to be put in her place. Thank you Harm for your noble assistance in this endeavor.

2). I liked the quote towards the end, "Do you think American's appreciate what we are doing here?" (something to that extent). The quote seemed like the characters were asking the audience if we appreciated what they are doing. Answer: Yes! By all means, continue doing what you are doing!!!

3). No Mattie. I am depressed.

4). So David is going to write for JAG and direct! Yipee!! Although, I must say that I most enjoy when Zito writes. He is my favorite. I think that he should adopt me.

5). I LOVED THE SCENES FOR NEXT WEEK--Thus proviing that Harm is still a sucker for lost causes! However, I must make one comment: Is Jenn going for the Tomb Raider look with her hair? Or perhaps the hair dresser needs to go back to hair dressing school? Honestly, I can write better than they can do her hair!

Okay, that is really all I have to say.

P.S. My ceiling is fixed--Praise the Lord and Hallelujah!

I have a hole in my ceiling... not my bucket.

2004-11-09T22:14:00.000-05:00

Yes, sadly, the saga of Sarah's leaky ceiling continues. Today I came home to find a hole in my ceiling. I was more than slightly ticked off, however, because they didn't cover anything when they made the whole so I had to change my sheets and clean my room--not fun!!! And, I hadn't already cleaned my room so there were some things in there that I am sure they lovely men who are in the process of fixing my ceiling did not want to see!

Mom mother's advice was to ask for a skyline. The only problem with that would be that the ceiling is right below Bruce and Cat's bathroom=very not good. But, nice try Mom ;).

In other news, I did not get to see JAG last week because there was a power outage in Vermont and New Hampshire. I was pretty gosh-darn bumbed about that one. Still am, really, but I am finding that my life is continuing. And yes, Dr. Mohrmann, the crickets are still chirping. I shudder when I even think about the man... aka, the anti-Christ. Yes, I know I need to show him love... I am still working on that one.

While we are on the subject of love, God has been teaching me about his love lately. I am more and MORE amazed by his awesomeness and just how much he really does care even though I do very little (ALL my righteousness is as filthy rags) for Him. I am learning, daily, to rest in His love. He really is a GREAT God. "God is good all the time; all the time God is good!"

Sorry it's been so long since I have blogged... I haven't really had anything to write. But, as Jo always says to Beth in Little Women, "Never write what you know... What do you think of the boy?" And to those of you who have certain kicks about writing--get over yourselves. I will write when I am good and ready to. The novel will get published whether I write today or tomorrow or the next day. And you can quote me on that even though I just began a sentence with "and."

Love always,

Sarah JOY :)

Raking Leaves in Vermont

2004-10-20T22:29:00.000-04:00

Today... I raked leaves. It was quite the adventure, really. Actually, I enjoyed it... well, except for the minor detail that the leaves up here in good 'ol VT multiply like rabbits! I seriously think that they were procreating while I was raking them (and snickering about it the whole time).

What else is new? Hmm... Oh! I should mention this, because I know that it will make a certain someone smile: ESTJ's rule!!!

This coming week is home visit for the students (aka: my first week off!). I plan on sleeping, watching JAG and Pirate's of the Caribbean, and eating M&Ms. Of course, I will hang out with the wonderful ladies at the girl's home.

Nothing really exciting has happened lately. I do have a funny story, though: One of my students was trying to come up with a good analogy to describe what happened to Jonah and he decided that it would be like him going on a Carnival Cruise when God told him to go to South Africa or something. That one is a keeper, I think.

Perhaps over home visit I will begin to sound more like my perky self... I haven't really had anything to talk about lately. Well... there is one thing, but I don't think I am ready to go there quite yet. Christa knows and she is praying about it (thanks, Christa!).

I love you all,

Have a wonderful day!!!