1) What did you do in 2011 that you'd never done before?
I wrote 398 thank-you notes, went to the NAMM Show, got a spray tan—twice!, cried like a teeny little girl when I saw Taylor Swift in concert, became obsessed with macarons, had a real date on Valentine’s Day, met Tina Fey, was a bridesmaid—twice!, discovered an affinity for books about disgusting diseases (the plague, scurvy, Ebola), became an official contributor to collegeministry.com, finally saw the David in Florence, started regularly using coupons, discovered my not-so-inner prepster, stayed up all night watching the Royal Wedding, opened a present nearly every day of the month of December, and chopped off my hair on a whim. Good stuff!!
2) Did you keep your New Year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I'm not really into making resolutions. Generally speaking, I strive to live a life that reflects the character of Jesus to people, contribute to the lives of others in a positive and meaningful way, be a productive person and constant learner, always have a grateful heart, and continually cultivate my interests.
3) Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes! Brad and Carrie welcomed Eli Benjamin!
4) Did anyone close to you die?
Not this year.
5) What countries did you visit?
Italy!! And Germany, just for layovers. Does that count? I bought Haribo gummy bears.
6) What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?
REINDEER ANTLERS FOR THE COROLLA. I couldn’t find them anywhere! But really…just more wisdom, patience, and understanding. Nothing huge. Ha.
7) What date(s) from 2011 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
December 1st—Nathan surprised me with 25 days of Christmas presents. June 13th marked our 1-year. And December 13th because it was my last birthday that started with a 2 (I turned 29…yikes).
8) What was your biggest achievement of the year?
This year, I took on some extra responsibilities and God definitely stretched me through them. It’s not an achievement, but by his grace and the grace of others, that I was able to learn a lot and have fun through some challenges that I was not anticipating.
9) Did you suffer illness or injury?
Aside from some back pain and an infection here and there…I was relatively healthy this year!
10) What was the best thing you bought?
I really liked the Christmas presents I bought for my parents—a travel book and a sparkly armadillo ornament for my dad (his name is Enrique—the armadillo, not my dad), and a mani/pedi for my mom (her first ever—we had fun!). I also bought a really pretty cameo ring and a linen scarf in Italy and feel pretty good about it.
11) Whose behavior merited celebration?
Anyone who sacrificed something of themselves for the benefit of someone else and without asking for reward or recognition merits celebration in my book. (Specifically, I'd like to celebrate pastors wives this year, and all the sacrifices that they make to support their husbands’ ministries.)
12) Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Ignorance mixed with pride and zeal is hard for me to tolerate.
13) Where did most of your money go?
I think I left it in Italy…along with my heart.
14) What did you get really, really, really excited about?
I am really great at anticipating things…so I got really excited about a lot of stuff this year. Whether it’s ice cream or a great trip, I’m excited about it!
15) What song will always remind you of 2011?
Rolling in the Deep by Adele. Oh, girl…
16) Compared to this time last year, are you:
Wiser? Yes. Healthier? Yes. Richer? In many ways.
17) What do you wish you'd done more of?
I really wish I had read more books. That’s definitely something I will do more of in 2012.
18) What do you wish you'd done less of?
Worried and over-analyzed, per usual.
19) How did you spend Christmas?
Church and Claim Jumper for dinner and gifts with my family and Nate on Christmas Eve. Christmas lunch at Nate’s house on Christmas Day. Sherlock Holmes on Christmas night.
20) Did you fall in love in 2011?
I fell in love in 2010…and am still falling…
21) What was your favorite TV program?
Toddlers & Tiaras, Extreme Couponing, and Hoarding: Buried Alive. I love TLC…people are so weird and fascinating, aren’t they?!
22) Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I don't hate anyone.
23) What was the best book you read?
I loved The Help and read some super funny books by Sloane Crosley.
24) What was your greatest musical discovery?
I pretty much listened to the same stuff I did last year...no noteworthy discoveries.
25) What did you want and get?
Clear skin again…phew!
26) What did you want and not get?
I am more than content!
27) What was your favorite film of this year?
The best film this year was FOOTLOOSE. Okay, so it wasn’t a good movie, but I LOVED it! The best real movie I saw was definitely Midnight in Paris.
28) What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 29 and took the day off work to sleep in, get Starbucks, and walk around Tiffany’s and South Coast Plaza by myself—it was wonderful and relaxing. Then Nate took me out to dinner and coffees. It was perfect.
29) Which celebrity/public figure did you like the most?
I was very happy to see the Muppets make a comeback. They’re my favorite celebrities.
30) How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2011?
I love and live in jeans, blazers, and fake pearls.
31) What kept you sane?
Family, friends, Nate, co-workers, and God.
32) Who did you miss?
I miss my faraway friends.
33) Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2011.
When lacking inspiration, log on to Pinterest.
34) What did you gain this year?
Confidence in Christ.
35) What did you lose this year?
A little more insecurity.
36) Who was the best new person you met?
Definitely Crave’s newest intern, Cody. He’s the best!!
37) Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:
Just listen to the song...
Happy New Year!
Showing posts with label New Year. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New Year. Show all posts
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Friday, December 31, 2010
Someday...
...I hope to happen upon a social situation in which I will be able to nonchalantly wear a top hat.Happy New Year.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
2010: The Year in Review
The end-of-the-year survey tradition continues for a third year (for last year's go here).
1) What did you do in 2010 that you'd never done before?
I went on a road trip with my best friend, had breakfast at Tiffany’s, hung out in a tattoo parlor in Haight Ashbury, enjoyed some fine dining at Club 33, finally visited Catalina, and got my first ticket ever (for running a red light).
2) Did you keep your New Year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I'm not really into making resolutions anymore. Generally speaking, I strive to live a life that reflects the character of Jesus to people, contribute to the lives of others in a positive and meaningful way, be a productive person and constant learner, always have a grateful heart, and continually cultivate my interests.
3) Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes! Steve and Nicole!
4) Did anyone close to you die?
Not this year.
5) What countries did you visit?
Travels were kept domestic this year. I took some fun trips to Portland, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and New York.
6) What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?
A couple of stamps in my fresh new passport. It’s going to happen!!
7) What date(s) from 2010 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
Halloween in San Francisco was a great memory. And June 13th was the start of something new (cue the High School Musical song...).
8) What was your biggest achievement of the year?
I finally weaned myself off of my daily soda-drinking habit this year, which I’m glad about.
9) Did you suffer illness or injury?
Yes. It sucked.
10) What was the best thing you bought?
Books…always books. (At two of the best bookstores in the country, I might add…)
11) Whose behavior merited celebration?
Anyone who sacrificed something of themselves for the benefit of someone else and without asking for reward or recognition merits celebration in my book. (Specifically, I'd like to celebrate teachers this year, and encourage you to watch the documentary Waiting for Superman.)
12) Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Most of the fame-mongering, greedy, and just plain obnoxious people on reality TV.
13) Where did most of your money go?
Probably to Starbucks...a true vice. Next year I'll be better. (Oh, who am I kidding? I said that last year…)
14) What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Seeing Starry Night at MoMA in NYC. I wanted to touch it so bad, and stared at it forever and tried walking away, but kept turning back to it. It took about four or five attempts to finally walk away from it…
15) What song will always remind you of 2010?
Dear John by Taylor Swift. I feel like he broke my heart, too.
16) Compared to this time last year, are you:
Wiser? Yes. Healthier? No. Richer? In many ways.
17) What do you wish you'd done more of?
Read, studied, traveled, and blogged...the things I can never do 'enough' of.
18) What do you wish you'd done less of?
Worried and over-analyzed, per usual.
19) How did you spend Christmas?
Church, Claim Jumper, and gifts with my family on Christmas Eve. Sleeping, reading, and hanging out on Christmas Day. Hanging out with Nathan on Christmas night.
20) Did you fall in love in 2010?
You know…I think I did…
21) What was your favorite TV program?
LOST, Gossip Girl, and 30 Rock.
22) Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I don't hate anyone.
23) What was the best book you read?
Water for Elephants and Zeitoun.
24) What was your greatest musical discovery?
I pretty much listen to the same stuff I did last year...no noteworthy discoveries.
25) What did you want and get?
My trip to NYC to visit a dear friend finally happened after years of planning and anticipation.
26) What did you want and not get?
I am content.
27) What was your favorite film of this year?
Tangled, 127 Hours, Harry Potter, and Eclipse.
28) What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 28 and did a lot of celebrating with cherished friends. On my actual birthday I took a final exam, then went out to lunch and Disneyland (to eat pink ice cream).
29) Which celebrity/public figure did you like the most?
Bruce Jenner, my favorite 'Kardashian.' He just makes me laugh.
30) How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2010?
I wear what I feel like wearing, which I am aware allows for some major hits and misses.
31) What kept you sane?
Family, friends, Nate, co-workers, and God.
32) Who did you miss?
I miss my faraway friends so, so much.
33) Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2010.
Romans 12 and Hebrews 12 are full of lessons I learned in 2010, and am still learning…
34) What did you gain this year?
Confidence in Christ.
35) What did you lose this year?
A little more insecurity.
36) Who was the best new person you met?
Kylie and Nathers.
37) Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:
Just listen to the song...
Happy New Year!
1) What did you do in 2010 that you'd never done before?
I went on a road trip with my best friend, had breakfast at Tiffany’s, hung out in a tattoo parlor in Haight Ashbury, enjoyed some fine dining at Club 33, finally visited Catalina, and got my first ticket ever (for running a red light).
2) Did you keep your New Year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I'm not really into making resolutions anymore. Generally speaking, I strive to live a life that reflects the character of Jesus to people, contribute to the lives of others in a positive and meaningful way, be a productive person and constant learner, always have a grateful heart, and continually cultivate my interests.
3) Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes! Steve and Nicole!
4) Did anyone close to you die?
Not this year.
5) What countries did you visit?
Travels were kept domestic this year. I took some fun trips to Portland, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and New York.
6) What would you like to have in 2011 that you lacked in 2010?
A couple of stamps in my fresh new passport. It’s going to happen!!
7) What date(s) from 2010 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
Halloween in San Francisco was a great memory. And June 13th was the start of something new (cue the High School Musical song...).
8) What was your biggest achievement of the year?
I finally weaned myself off of my daily soda-drinking habit this year, which I’m glad about.
9) Did you suffer illness or injury?
Yes. It sucked.
10) What was the best thing you bought?
Books…always books. (At two of the best bookstores in the country, I might add…)
11) Whose behavior merited celebration?
Anyone who sacrificed something of themselves for the benefit of someone else and without asking for reward or recognition merits celebration in my book. (Specifically, I'd like to celebrate teachers this year, and encourage you to watch the documentary Waiting for Superman.)
12) Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Most of the fame-mongering, greedy, and just plain obnoxious people on reality TV.
13) Where did most of your money go?
Probably to Starbucks...a true vice. Next year I'll be better. (Oh, who am I kidding? I said that last year…)
14) What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Seeing Starry Night at MoMA in NYC. I wanted to touch it so bad, and stared at it forever and tried walking away, but kept turning back to it. It took about four or five attempts to finally walk away from it…
15) What song will always remind you of 2010?
Dear John by Taylor Swift. I feel like he broke my heart, too.
16) Compared to this time last year, are you:
Wiser? Yes. Healthier? No. Richer? In many ways.
17) What do you wish you'd done more of?
Read, studied, traveled, and blogged...the things I can never do 'enough' of.
18) What do you wish you'd done less of?
Worried and over-analyzed, per usual.
19) How did you spend Christmas?
Church, Claim Jumper, and gifts with my family on Christmas Eve. Sleeping, reading, and hanging out on Christmas Day. Hanging out with Nathan on Christmas night.
20) Did you fall in love in 2010?
You know…I think I did…
21) What was your favorite TV program?
LOST, Gossip Girl, and 30 Rock.
22) Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I don't hate anyone.
23) What was the best book you read?
Water for Elephants and Zeitoun.
24) What was your greatest musical discovery?
I pretty much listen to the same stuff I did last year...no noteworthy discoveries.
25) What did you want and get?
My trip to NYC to visit a dear friend finally happened after years of planning and anticipation.
26) What did you want and not get?
I am content.
27) What was your favorite film of this year?
Tangled, 127 Hours, Harry Potter, and Eclipse.
28) What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 28 and did a lot of celebrating with cherished friends. On my actual birthday I took a final exam, then went out to lunch and Disneyland (to eat pink ice cream).
29) Which celebrity/public figure did you like the most?
Bruce Jenner, my favorite 'Kardashian.' He just makes me laugh.
30) How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2010?
I wear what I feel like wearing, which I am aware allows for some major hits and misses.
31) What kept you sane?
Family, friends, Nate, co-workers, and God.
32) Who did you miss?
I miss my faraway friends so, so much.
33) Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2010.
Romans 12 and Hebrews 12 are full of lessons I learned in 2010, and am still learning…
34) What did you gain this year?
Confidence in Christ.
35) What did you lose this year?
A little more insecurity.
36) Who was the best new person you met?
Kylie and Nathers.
37) Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:
Just listen to the song...
Happy New Year!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Danke Schön
As the holidays slip by and I reflect on the challenges, trials, victories and blessings that the year has brought, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude. I'm grateful for my incredible family that loves, supports, and encourages me. I'm grateful for the kindest and most generous friends a girl could ever hope for. I'm grateful for the most incredible and fulfilling job in the world and that I get to serve with my best friends—really, my second family. I'm grateful for God's love, and that it's only by his grace that I am able to have a relationship with him. There is so much to be thankful for.
With all the busyness, frivolity, and fun that the season brings, it’s important to me to note the sacrifice, sharing, and service of the amazingly generous and thoughtful people I know. I love writing thank-you notes and love-notes, and my goal is to write 365 of them in 2011. What a simple note has the capacity to mean to someone—who feels unappreciated, undervalued, unloved, forgotten—is ridiculous in comparison to the time and effort it takes to write one. (And, I get to use all my pretty stationary, stamps, and stickers...bonus!)
Plus, writing a note every day will also foster a heart of gratitude in me and keep my eyes open and my mind aware of the people I am thankful for. I have learned that gratitude is the antidote to many things—greed, jealously, cynicism, selfishness, thoughtlessness, entitlement, discouragement. The enemy so easily gets a foothold into our hearts through these often subtle shifts in our attitudes.
My challenge to you is to express your gratitude to others in 2011. Have you ever thought about how much someone meant to you, but didn't bless that person by letting them know? I know I have let opportunities slip away. Maybe notes aren't your thing...what is? A phone call? A random text? A facebook wall post? Maybe you really want to mess with someone and buy them a coffee or a gift card or flowers...
With all the busyness, frivolity, and fun that the season brings, it’s important to me to note the sacrifice, sharing, and service of the amazingly generous and thoughtful people I know. I love writing thank-you notes and love-notes, and my goal is to write 365 of them in 2011. What a simple note has the capacity to mean to someone—who feels unappreciated, undervalued, unloved, forgotten—is ridiculous in comparison to the time and effort it takes to write one. (And, I get to use all my pretty stationary, stamps, and stickers...bonus!)
Plus, writing a note every day will also foster a heart of gratitude in me and keep my eyes open and my mind aware of the people I am thankful for. I have learned that gratitude is the antidote to many things—greed, jealously, cynicism, selfishness, thoughtlessness, entitlement, discouragement. The enemy so easily gets a foothold into our hearts through these often subtle shifts in our attitudes.
My challenge to you is to express your gratitude to others in 2011. Have you ever thought about how much someone meant to you, but didn't bless that person by letting them know? I know I have let opportunities slip away. Maybe notes aren't your thing...what is? A phone call? A random text? A facebook wall post? Maybe you really want to mess with someone and buy them a coffee or a gift card or flowers...
"...let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Hebrews 10:24
"Let everything you say be good and helpful so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them." Ephesians 4:29
There shall be Eternal summer in the grateful heart. --Celia Thaxter
Monday, December 28, 2009
Happy New Year!
A few of my friends do an annual end-of-the-year survey, and I thought I'd continue the tradition for a second year. (For last year's, go here.)
1) What did you do in 2009 that you'd never done before?
I went on a Peace trip (there were a lot of firsts included in that), got the freaking swine flu, had my writing published, saw the Jonas Brothers in concert, and went dog-sledding in Alaska.
2) Did you keep your New Year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I'm not really making any resolutions for next year. Generally speaking, I strive to live a life that reflects the character of Jesus to people, contribute to the lives of others in a positive and meaningful way, be a productive person and constant learner, always have a grateful heart, and continually cultivate my interests.
3) Did anyone close to you give birth?
My sweet friend Taylor!
4) Did anyone close to you die?
Not this year.
5) What countries did you visit?
The Dominican Republic for two weeks. And Canada for a day. (Does that even count?)
6) What would you like to have in 2010 that you lacked in 2009?
I'd love to have a few stamps in my new passport and an "in" to Club 33.
7) What date(s) from 2009 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
August 1--when I came home from the Dominican Republic. It was great to see my family and go to In-N-Out.
8) What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Not sure. I learned a lot! God really bothered me this year (in a good way). I was stretched physically, spiritually, and emotionally. However, none of those things are "achievements"; it's only because of God that I know him better, not because of anything I did or achieved.
9) Did you suffer illness or injury?
Other than getting kicked in the face by the swine last month, no.
10) What was the best thing you bought?
A subscription to Netflix, for sure.
11) Whose behavior merited celebration?
Anyone who sacrificed something of themselves for the benefit of someone else and without asking for reward or recognition merits celebration in my book. (Specifically, I'd like to celebrate the sacrifice that pastors' wives make!)
12) Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Reality TV parents.
13) Where did most of your money go?
Probably to Starbucks...a true vice. Next year I'll be better. (Oh, who am I kidding?)
14) What did you get really, really, really excited about?
What don't I get really, really, really excited about?!
15) What song will always remind you of 2009?
I Gotta Feeling by the Black Eyed Peas.
16) Compared to this time last year, are you:
Wiser? Definitely. Healthier? In some ways. Richer? In many ways.
17) What do you wish you'd done more of?
Read, studied, and traveled. I don't think I'll ever do any of those things enough for my liking, though.
18) What do you wish you'd done less of?
Worried and over-analyzed.
19) How did you spend Christmas?
Church, Claim Jumper, and gifts with my family on Christmas Eve. Hanging around the house feeling lousy on Christmas Day. And on Christmas Night, I saw Sherlock Holmes with my big brother.
20) Did you fall in love in 2009?
Unless the lovely young men of Gossip Girl count, no.
21) What was your favorite TV program?
LOST, Gossip Girl, Grey's Anatomy, Veronica Mars, and the Soup.
22) Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I don't hate anyone.
23) What was the best book you read?
Oh, Jane Eyre, hands down. I can't believe I hadn't read it sooner. One of the greatest books ever.
24) What was your greatest musical discovery?
I totally loved Lady Gaga's CD this year. Sue me.
25) What did you want and get?
A fancy tote bag.
26) What did you want and not get?
That coveted trip to NYC still hasn't happened yet. But it will. Oh yes, it will...
27) What was your favorite film of this year?
The Road. Bright Star. Sherlock Holmes. Harry Potter. Julie and Julia. The Young Victoria. Up.
28) What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 27 and did a lot of celebrating with cherished friends. On my actual birthday I went to Disneyland and had a fancy lunch at the Blue Bayou with my mom...yum!
29) Which celebrity/public figure did you like the most?
Joel McHale. The man just makes me laugh.
30) How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2009?
I wear what I feel like wearing.
31) What kept you sane?
My family, friends, co-workers, and God.
32) Who did you miss?
I miss my faraway friends so, so much.
33) Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2009.
Trusting God: 1. Tough. 2. Not optional.
34) What did you gain this year?
Self-awareness and more confidence.
35) What did you lose this year?
A dress size, surprisingly.
36) Who was the best new person you met?
A lovely Southern belle named Chelsea Collins.
37) Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:
"Yay-ay-ay-ay, it's a party in the U.S.A."
Happy New Year!
1) What did you do in 2009 that you'd never done before?
I went on a Peace trip (there were a lot of firsts included in that), got the freaking swine flu, had my writing published, saw the Jonas Brothers in concert, and went dog-sledding in Alaska.
2) Did you keep your New Year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I'm not really making any resolutions for next year. Generally speaking, I strive to live a life that reflects the character of Jesus to people, contribute to the lives of others in a positive and meaningful way, be a productive person and constant learner, always have a grateful heart, and continually cultivate my interests.
3) Did anyone close to you give birth?
My sweet friend Taylor!
4) Did anyone close to you die?
Not this year.
5) What countries did you visit?
The Dominican Republic for two weeks. And Canada for a day. (Does that even count?)
6) What would you like to have in 2010 that you lacked in 2009?
I'd love to have a few stamps in my new passport and an "in" to Club 33.
7) What date(s) from 2009 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
August 1--when I came home from the Dominican Republic. It was great to see my family and go to In-N-Out.
8) What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Not sure. I learned a lot! God really bothered me this year (in a good way). I was stretched physically, spiritually, and emotionally. However, none of those things are "achievements"; it's only because of God that I know him better, not because of anything I did or achieved.
9) Did you suffer illness or injury?
Other than getting kicked in the face by the swine last month, no.
10) What was the best thing you bought?
A subscription to Netflix, for sure.
11) Whose behavior merited celebration?
Anyone who sacrificed something of themselves for the benefit of someone else and without asking for reward or recognition merits celebration in my book. (Specifically, I'd like to celebrate the sacrifice that pastors' wives make!)
12) Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Reality TV parents.
13) Where did most of your money go?
Probably to Starbucks...a true vice. Next year I'll be better. (Oh, who am I kidding?)
14) What did you get really, really, really excited about?
What don't I get really, really, really excited about?!
15) What song will always remind you of 2009?
I Gotta Feeling by the Black Eyed Peas.
16) Compared to this time last year, are you:
Wiser? Definitely. Healthier? In some ways. Richer? In many ways.
17) What do you wish you'd done more of?
Read, studied, and traveled. I don't think I'll ever do any of those things enough for my liking, though.
18) What do you wish you'd done less of?
Worried and over-analyzed.
19) How did you spend Christmas?
Church, Claim Jumper, and gifts with my family on Christmas Eve. Hanging around the house feeling lousy on Christmas Day. And on Christmas Night, I saw Sherlock Holmes with my big brother.
20) Did you fall in love in 2009?
Unless the lovely young men of Gossip Girl count, no.
21) What was your favorite TV program?
LOST, Gossip Girl, Grey's Anatomy, Veronica Mars, and the Soup.
22) Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I don't hate anyone.
23) What was the best book you read?
Oh, Jane Eyre, hands down. I can't believe I hadn't read it sooner. One of the greatest books ever.
24) What was your greatest musical discovery?
I totally loved Lady Gaga's CD this year. Sue me.
25) What did you want and get?
A fancy tote bag.
26) What did you want and not get?
That coveted trip to NYC still hasn't happened yet. But it will. Oh yes, it will...
27) What was your favorite film of this year?
The Road. Bright Star. Sherlock Holmes. Harry Potter. Julie and Julia. The Young Victoria. Up.
28) What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
I turned 27 and did a lot of celebrating with cherished friends. On my actual birthday I went to Disneyland and had a fancy lunch at the Blue Bayou with my mom...yum!
29) Which celebrity/public figure did you like the most?
Joel McHale. The man just makes me laugh.
30) How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2009?
I wear what I feel like wearing.
31) What kept you sane?
My family, friends, co-workers, and God.
32) Who did you miss?
I miss my faraway friends so, so much.
33) Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2009.
Trusting God: 1. Tough. 2. Not optional.
34) What did you gain this year?
Self-awareness and more confidence.
35) What did you lose this year?
A dress size, surprisingly.
36) Who was the best new person you met?
A lovely Southern belle named Chelsea Collins.
37) Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:
"Yay-ay-ay-ay, it's a party in the U.S.A."
Happy New Year!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Heel Yeah!!
I hate dancing. Like, hate it. I feel so lame and uncomfortable on a dance floor. I have no rhythm. I have no style. And I don't know many dance songs. People have physically dragged me onto dance floors at weddings...and while I'm trying to tap my feet and snap my fingers along to a Will Smith song and keep a fake smile on my face, my mind immediately starts plotting a murder/suicide...I'm so miserable, I want to die.
But not tonight. Tonight I danced. It was awesome. I said I was going to, I made up my mind, and I did. Yes, I felt lame and uncomfortable at first, then I just had a lot of fun, and even experienced some unhoped-for freedom in that sea of sweaty people; I don't think anyone can grasp the significance of the mental barrier I have just freed myself from.
And...I did it in 4.5 inch heels!!! (Seriously though, how great are these shoes? Rosey-champagney colored satin and black patent leather?!) I'm kind of proud of myself for dancing in these incredibly uncomfortable shoes for hours, and liking it. Is that okay?
It's going to be a good year, guys. I can feel it. (I can't feel my toes, though.)
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Well, 2008, it's been great...
A few of my friends do an end-of-the-year survey, and I thought I'd start the same tradition this year. Here goes...
1) What did you do in 2008 that you'd never done before?
Tried some new foods (crab legs!!), went to Atlanta to be production assistant for a conference (and saw a Braves game!), switched from ball-point to felt-tipped pens, got a massage at a spa, went to Dodger Stadium, joined facebook and twitter, started doing Crave announcements in the Refinery, visited Oxford and Stonehenge and Bath and Windsor, went to 3 midnight movies (ugh…why?!), joined a Masters swim team, and took a five- and four-year-old to Disneyland for a day (with help!).
2) Did you keep your New Year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I cannot help myself from making resolutions every year. I usually meet goals that I am serious about, but I make so many resolutions that I naturally don’t keep them all (or even remember them!). Generally speaking, next year, and in life, I want to reflect the character of Jesus to people, contribute to others’ lives in a positive and meaningful way, be a productive person and constant learner, always have a grateful heart, and cultivate my interests.
3) Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes! Many did. I was so especially excited for Clayton and Allison and Derek and Lena!
4) Did anyone close to you die?
Yes. My grandma passed away last spring.
5) What countries did you visit?
England. And man, did I have a blast.
6) What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
LOST season 4. Still haven’t seen any of it yet…
7) What date(s) from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
October 13—It was my first day working on the Crave team! But I didn’t really work…I went to NLCS Game 4 at Dodger Stadium with Julie!! What a great day! (Hey, it’s Pat!!)
8) What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Not sure. I finished three seminary classes and learned a lot. God truly blessed me with an incredible new position at Saddleback. I feel like I grew socially as well; I made a lot of new friends (not all of them have blogs, unfortunately) and am learning to be a better friend myself. I also experienced profound sorrow and anxiety, but also sublime joy and excitement. However, none of those things are ‘achievements.’
9) Did you suffer illness or injury?
The first four months or so of the year were a bit sketchy…I had chest pains caused by anxiety, a random tear duct infection, and severe tonsillitis, all within a short amount of time. But then I felt much better. I also threw my back out and had chronic back pain in late summer, but that’s normal…don’t worry about it, guys…haha.
10) What was the best thing you bought?
Tea at the Ritz Hotel in London with one of my best pals, Hayley. It was so, so great. We drank so much tea and were so excited that, even though we were so tired from walking around all day, we couldn’t fall asleep until three in the morning.
11) Whose behavior merited celebration?
Anyone who sacrificed something of themselves for the benefit of someone else merits celebration in my book.
12) Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Anyone who took a side in a debate/issue/argument, who didn’t have a true sense of conviction and only wanted to cause a ruckus, be part of the scene, or make a statement made me sad.
13) Where did most of your money go?
A lot of it went to gasoline for most of the year…ugh! Most of it went to London, including the entirety of my economic stimulus check!
14) What did you get really, really, really excited about?
I get really, really, really excited about a lot of stuff, whether it’s going on a trip or the smell of a cinnamon crunch bagel from Panera, so…I don’t know what to tell you.
15) What song will always remind you of 2008?
Viva la Vida by Coldplay. My brother and I saw them in concert in November and they’re so incredible…I almost can’t handle it.
16) Compared to this time last year, are you:
Wiser? I think so. Healthier? Difficult to say. Richer? In many ways.
17) What do you wish you'd done more of?
Read, studied, traveled, blogged, and swum. (‘Swum’ is correct, if you’re wondering. Look it up.)
18) What do you wish you'd done less of?
Worried.
19) How did you spend Christmas?
My family went to church and dinner on Christmas Eve, came home and sat by the fire, and opened presents. I also read The Catcher in the Rye. On Christmas Day we had a great dinner and then I saw “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” with friends.
20) Did you fall in love in 2008?
If fictional characters count, then yes.
21) What was your favorite TV program?
LOST. Oh, LOST…I love it.
22) Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I don’t think I hate anyone…so, no.
23) What was the best book you read?
Hands down it was The Road.
24) What was your greatest musical discovery?
Country music. It’s true. I would say that I learned to love it in 2008.
25) What did you want and get?
A book embosser!
26) What did you want and not get?
A few things…no matter, though.
27) What was your favorite film of this year?
Slumdog Millionaire.
28) What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
To celebrate turning 26, my small group took me to dinner on my birthday eve, and the waitress gave my birthday dessert, with the candle and everything, to the wrong person; it was hilarious. And I spent my actual birthday at Disneyland with Amberpants, eating ratatouille and pink ice cream, and I got so many texts and messages and it was great. I felt so loved and special and I laughed a lot. That, to me, is a great birthday.
29) Which celebrity/public figure did you like the most?
Joel McHale and Tony Bourdain.
30) How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
I try to have fun and feel good about how I dress and look. That’s about all that’s behind my “concept.”
31) What kept you sane?
My sanity…?
32) Who did you miss?
I miss my relatives in Germany, Mic, Elizabeth, Amber Rusher, the Coates family, Mindi, Jared, Jeananne, and Adam in Australia!
33) Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.
Well, I learned that I shouldn’t be content with mediocrity; I want to strive for excellence.
34) What did you gain this year?
Responsibilities!!
35) What did you lose this year?
Some close friends—not to death, but to distance and busyness.
36) Who was the best new person you met?
Moving offices allowed me to meet many new people this year…and I am so grateful for my new friends.
37) Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:
I’m slipping into the lava…and I’m trying to keep from going under. Baby, who turned the temperature hotter, cuz I’m burnin’ up, burnin’ up for you baby! (This was THEE-MOST-PLAYED-BY-FAR song of the year for me.)
Happy New Year!!
1) What did you do in 2008 that you'd never done before?
Tried some new foods (crab legs!!), went to Atlanta to be production assistant for a conference (and saw a Braves game!), switched from ball-point to felt-tipped pens, got a massage at a spa, went to Dodger Stadium, joined facebook and twitter, started doing Crave announcements in the Refinery, visited Oxford and Stonehenge and Bath and Windsor, went to 3 midnight movies (ugh…why?!), joined a Masters swim team, and took a five- and four-year-old to Disneyland for a day (with help!).
2) Did you keep your New Year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
I cannot help myself from making resolutions every year. I usually meet goals that I am serious about, but I make so many resolutions that I naturally don’t keep them all (or even remember them!). Generally speaking, next year, and in life, I want to reflect the character of Jesus to people, contribute to others’ lives in a positive and meaningful way, be a productive person and constant learner, always have a grateful heart, and cultivate my interests.
3) Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes! Many did. I was so especially excited for Clayton and Allison and Derek and Lena!
4) Did anyone close to you die?
Yes. My grandma passed away last spring.
5) What countries did you visit?
England. And man, did I have a blast.
6) What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
LOST season 4. Still haven’t seen any of it yet…
7) What date(s) from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
October 13—It was my first day working on the Crave team! But I didn’t really work…I went to NLCS Game 4 at Dodger Stadium with Julie!! What a great day! (Hey, it’s Pat!!)
8) What was your biggest achievement of the year?
Not sure. I finished three seminary classes and learned a lot. God truly blessed me with an incredible new position at Saddleback. I feel like I grew socially as well; I made a lot of new friends (not all of them have blogs, unfortunately) and am learning to be a better friend myself. I also experienced profound sorrow and anxiety, but also sublime joy and excitement. However, none of those things are ‘achievements.’
9) Did you suffer illness or injury?
The first four months or so of the year were a bit sketchy…I had chest pains caused by anxiety, a random tear duct infection, and severe tonsillitis, all within a short amount of time. But then I felt much better. I also threw my back out and had chronic back pain in late summer, but that’s normal…don’t worry about it, guys…haha.
10) What was the best thing you bought?
Tea at the Ritz Hotel in London with one of my best pals, Hayley. It was so, so great. We drank so much tea and were so excited that, even though we were so tired from walking around all day, we couldn’t fall asleep until three in the morning.
11) Whose behavior merited celebration?
Anyone who sacrificed something of themselves for the benefit of someone else merits celebration in my book.
12) Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Anyone who took a side in a debate/issue/argument, who didn’t have a true sense of conviction and only wanted to cause a ruckus, be part of the scene, or make a statement made me sad.
13) Where did most of your money go?
A lot of it went to gasoline for most of the year…ugh! Most of it went to London, including the entirety of my economic stimulus check!
14) What did you get really, really, really excited about?
I get really, really, really excited about a lot of stuff, whether it’s going on a trip or the smell of a cinnamon crunch bagel from Panera, so…I don’t know what to tell you.
15) What song will always remind you of 2008?
Viva la Vida by Coldplay. My brother and I saw them in concert in November and they’re so incredible…I almost can’t handle it.
16) Compared to this time last year, are you:
Wiser? I think so. Healthier? Difficult to say. Richer? In many ways.
17) What do you wish you'd done more of?
Read, studied, traveled, blogged, and swum. (‘Swum’ is correct, if you’re wondering. Look it up.)
18) What do you wish you'd done less of?
Worried.
19) How did you spend Christmas?
My family went to church and dinner on Christmas Eve, came home and sat by the fire, and opened presents. I also read The Catcher in the Rye. On Christmas Day we had a great dinner and then I saw “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” with friends.
20) Did you fall in love in 2008?
If fictional characters count, then yes.
21) What was your favorite TV program?
LOST. Oh, LOST…I love it.
22) Do you hate anyone now that you didn't hate this time last year?
I don’t think I hate anyone…so, no.
23) What was the best book you read?
Hands down it was The Road.
24) What was your greatest musical discovery?
Country music. It’s true. I would say that I learned to love it in 2008.
25) What did you want and get?
A book embosser!
26) What did you want and not get?
A few things…no matter, though.
27) What was your favorite film of this year?
Slumdog Millionaire.
28) What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
To celebrate turning 26, my small group took me to dinner on my birthday eve, and the waitress gave my birthday dessert, with the candle and everything, to the wrong person; it was hilarious. And I spent my actual birthday at Disneyland with Amberpants, eating ratatouille and pink ice cream, and I got so many texts and messages and it was great. I felt so loved and special and I laughed a lot. That, to me, is a great birthday.
29) Which celebrity/public figure did you like the most?
Joel McHale and Tony Bourdain.
30) How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
I try to have fun and feel good about how I dress and look. That’s about all that’s behind my “concept.”
31) What kept you sane?
My sanity…?
32) Who did you miss?
I miss my relatives in Germany, Mic, Elizabeth, Amber Rusher, the Coates family, Mindi, Jared, Jeananne, and Adam in Australia!
33) Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.
Well, I learned that I shouldn’t be content with mediocrity; I want to strive for excellence.
34) What did you gain this year?
Responsibilities!!
35) What did you lose this year?
Some close friends—not to death, but to distance and busyness.
36) Who was the best new person you met?
Moving offices allowed me to meet many new people this year…and I am so grateful for my new friends.
37) Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:
I’m slipping into the lava…and I’m trying to keep from going under. Baby, who turned the temperature hotter, cuz I’m burnin’ up, burnin’ up for you baby! (This was THEE-MOST-PLAYED-BY-FAR song of the year for me.)
Happy New Year!!
Friday, November 28, 2008
It was a very good year...
Last week while Nicole and I were at lunch, she asked me what I want to accomplish next year. What a great and important question, and I can't tell you how much I love that she asked me that. It just reminded me of what a focused person she is; I know she knows exactly what she wants to do next year, and that she'll do it! Yet, it was a question I hadn't given much thought to. Now that the wheels are turning, here are some things I want to do next year:
PERSONAL
Spend less money (read: go out to eat less!).
Watch every movie on the AFI Top 100 list. (I'm about 60% there, without effort.)
Swim and run more (And by "run more" I mean "run").
Compete in a few swim meets.
Improve my tennis game. (Is this possible? I really am that bad.)
Read more. I hate putting a number on this, but I want to read around thirty novels next year. I usually read around twenty.
Write more-blogging and journaling.
Do more things involving art history-writing, studying, visiting more museums; it's one of my biggest passions and needs to be cultivated more.
Go to San Francisco. It's been a few years and it's one of my favorite cities.
Go to New York City.
Go on a PEACE trip.
Go to a Padres game (never been).
MINISTRY
Help ten girls start flourishing small groups.
Equip and empower adult mentors for Crave and get college students connected with great mentors.
Support those who will be involved with Crave's discipleship program, and complete it myself!
Do whatever I can to create a tight-knit community of women at Crave.
Empower and encourage our Crave leaders and volunteers and grow our volunteer team.
On New Year's Eve, I used to get a little depressed; I'd always look back and dwell on things that I did wrong, the times I messed up, the relationships that were strained, the things I didn't accomplish, or the expectations that I put on God that were not met. In the last few years, my attitude has changed and I've decided to look ahead; I think, "This next year is going to be the best year ever." And it always is...my 25th year rocked--God answered several specific prayers, I got an awesome new job, went to London, made new friends, took some risks, learned and grew and trusted...
I'm excited about 2009. It's going to be a great year...the best yet.
PERSONAL
Spend less money (read: go out to eat less!).
Watch every movie on the AFI Top 100 list. (I'm about 60% there, without effort.)
Swim and run more (And by "run more" I mean "run").
Compete in a few swim meets.
Improve my tennis game. (Is this possible? I really am that bad.)
Read more. I hate putting a number on this, but I want to read around thirty novels next year. I usually read around twenty.
Write more-blogging and journaling.
Do more things involving art history-writing, studying, visiting more museums; it's one of my biggest passions and needs to be cultivated more.
Go to San Francisco. It's been a few years and it's one of my favorite cities.
Go to New York City.
Go on a PEACE trip.
Go to a Padres game (never been).
MINISTRY
Help ten girls start flourishing small groups.
Equip and empower adult mentors for Crave and get college students connected with great mentors.
Support those who will be involved with Crave's discipleship program, and complete it myself!
Do whatever I can to create a tight-knit community of women at Crave.
Empower and encourage our Crave leaders and volunteers and grow our volunteer team.
On New Year's Eve, I used to get a little depressed; I'd always look back and dwell on things that I did wrong, the times I messed up, the relationships that were strained, the things I didn't accomplish, or the expectations that I put on God that were not met. In the last few years, my attitude has changed and I've decided to look ahead; I think, "This next year is going to be the best year ever." And it always is...my 25th year rocked--God answered several specific prayers, I got an awesome new job, went to London, made new friends, took some risks, learned and grew and trusted...
I'm excited about 2009. It's going to be a great year...the best yet.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
525,600 Minutes
How do you measure a year? Here is my 2007 in numbers:
1 pair of high heels bought. First ever.
21 books read.
0 times thrown up (19-year streak is going strong).
6 states visited for the first time.
3 weddings. 1 bouquet caught.
25 days of birthday celebrating.
2 trips to Seattle.
9 Vermeer paintings seen (that’s a big deal; there’s like, 34 in the world).
1 funeral. First ever.
0 speeding tickets (lifetime streak is going strong.)
2 books received from a secret friend.
23 movies seen in the theater.
3 performances of Wicked seen.
8th Disneyland annual passport bought.
2 seminary classes.
1 co-led small group.
3 other small groups.
2 blogs started.
525,600 minutes.
How do you measure a year?
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