Happy last day of 2016, everyone (my Mom is here, so I can just say hi from the same room)! What a whirlwind of a year 2016 was. It feels like I was just writing my 2015 recap/2016 goals blog post a week ago. This year passed SO fast, but was so full of changes! I adopted the cutest dog ever, got a new job and moved, and gained a sister! Holy cow.
I will admit, I did not achieve many of my goals for 2016, but I did set some new goals along the way and achieved those. That's part of the fun of beginning of the year goals anyway--the striving to achieve them, and finding new things to work on along the way! I'm going to briefly recap this year, then dive into a few of my 2017 goals!
Let's start with a few of the goals I set for 2016, a few met, quite a few not:
1. Going on a mission trip. Unfortunately I didn't do this in 2016, but I'd still love to someday, especially a medical mission. The more I learn about the places in the world whose inhabitants know nothing about Jesus, the more I feel I need to go.
2. Leave the country. My plan was to head to Puerto Rico, but with the Zika virus in full force, I just did not think it was wise. Oh, and I spent a lot of money to move back to Kansas (worth it). I'll get out someday, but until then I'll enjoy exploring the 50 states.
3. One race per month. Totally crushed this one, and it was a lot of fun! I got to travel to Colorado, California, and around Texas and Kansas for lots of neat races.
4. 2 rounds of Whole30: check! It wasn't easy, but I truly felt better eating whole foods. I've changed my diet fairly significantly, and am a lot more conscious of what I put into my body. I'll still go hammer time on a good mac n cheese, though. ;)
5. Strength train at least twice per week. This one wasn't completely met, but I did a LOT more strength work in 2016 than I had in the past couple of years, which was great. I'm looking forward to even more strong woman training in 2017.
6. Blog once per week. This was going well until mid-2016, when I had writer's block, and my life just wasn't that exciting. Plus I moved and had to get into a new routine. I think for next year I'll just blog when I'm "feeling" it.
7. Learn to play the guitar. Laugh out loud. I picked up the guitar about 5 times in January. Then February came, and so did Ella. For the majority of the first six months having her, any time I was home I was chasing her around and making sure she didn't poop in the house, chew up the house, or kill either of us. Pretty much all hobbies went out the window. Now that she's older, maybe I'll try the five-string again.
For 2017, I've set eight personal goals for myself thus far. Most of them seem achievable, so maybe I will add some more difficult ones as the gear goes by.
1. Read one book per month. I used to be an avid reader and one book per week would be about average. But like I mentioned earlier, bringing Ella into my life consumed a LOT of time, so I stopped doing a lot of things, including reading. This year I'd like to amp up that habit again. I'll be reading some fun fiction, lifestyle books, books about Jesus, traveling books, and money books.
2. Complete the ESV Psalms & Wisdom Literature reading plan-- in this plan I will be going through the Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon over the course of a year. No, that is not a lot of books, but with my other reading and studies, I think it's doable. I read the whole bible a couple of years ago and it wasn't as fruitful as I would have liked because I was just trying to keep up and didn't get to actually digest the material like I would have liked. If you're interested in finding a good reading plan for 2017, here's a link: Ligonier Reading Plans 2017
3. Stop doing challenges. I have done so many challenges over the past few years, and I want to complete them, so I just become a slave to them. This year, for example, I had to run a certain number of miles over the course of the year, so knowing I had to do that made me hate running and resent it, because I was forcing myself to do it. This year, I will not be participating in any challenges that last >30 days.
4. Save enough money to buy a car. My poor little car is on his last leg (which is ok, because it's almost 11 years old). This year I plan to save enough money to either pay cash for a car or pay a huge down payment toward a vehicle. This means saying no to shopping and some traveling, so this is going to be HARD. Pray for me (seriously).
5. Teach Ella to run. When I got a dog, I said I wanted a big enough dog to take running with me. Between her ADHD and my impatience, the furthest we've run is about a quarter mile. This year I'd love to run a mile or two with her at a time.
6. One race per month. I want running to continue to be PART of my life, I just don't want it to BE my life. A goal I have for my lifetime is to never not be able to complete a 5K. I'd like to run a 5K per month in 2017, just because I want to continue to have a tiny identity as a runner. Call me crazy.
7. Follow a budget each month. I've had a budget set on mint.com for a year or two, but just kind of used it jokingly to see where all my money went and if I went over budget here or there, didn't really care. This goal ties together well with goal #4. I plan to get serious and be a grown-up about finances, finally. Besides, math is kind of fun and so is saving to make fun purchases like cars! As my mom said, just think about how stylish your clothes and shoes will look getting out of a newer (and more reliable) vehicle.
8. Finally, I want strength training to play a bigger role in my health and fitness in 2017. The deadlift has always been my favorite lift, so my big lifting goal this year is to deadlift 200 pounds at least one time.
Thanks for reading my goals, everyone, you're real gems! And for those of you who chat with me on a regular basis, hold me accountable! :) Happy 2017 to all my friends, family, and readers! I sincerely hope your year is blessed, and that you achieve all of your goals, too!
PS What books should I add to my reading list?
PPS What are some of your goals for 2017?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Saturday, December 31, 2016
Friday, December 16, 2016
The Christmas Light
Happy December, and happy winter, everyone (hope you've got your heater on, Mom)! It's a balmy 35 degrees in Emporia today and has been misting all day long, and we are supposed to get some snow tomorrow. I forgot how cold winter could be, but I surprisingly don't hate it as much as I thought I would! With enough layers (or just staying inside with blankets and a fake plug-in fireplace), one can survive anything!
Before I get into the meat of this blog post, I'd like to give a disclaimer. I'm going to be talking about a topic that offends some people: Jesus. So if you get offended by what I say, or if you feel your emotions getting heated, resist the temptation to get grumpy about it and stop reading.
I have always loved Christmas lights. When I was little, I have fond memories of my family tradition of eating pizza by the Christmas tree, as well as loading up in the car and driving around town looking at the various Christmas displays in people's yards. We started those traditions when I was really little and just last weekend my brother & sister-in-law indulged me for my 27th birthday and took me to look at awesome displays in Kansas City. A couple of years ago, my family and I sat in a line for 2 hours on the street waiting to get into an awesomely lit neighborhood. Every chance I get, if there is a great neighborhood or park displaying lights, I try my best to get there!
With you knowing about my appreciation (and slight obsession, maybe) of Christmas displays, you will understand just how utterly thrilled I was to find I live in one of the premiere Christmas neighborhoods in Emporia! Thankfully, I'm about a block over, so I can get away with a simple LED yard light, but there is a horseshoe-shaped street next to my house in which every single house is decorated from the roof to the curb. It's so amazing! I love taking Ella for walks if it's not absolutely frigid. I wish there was some way to get them to decorate for every holiday like this.
One of the first nights I was walking Ella around Whoville, it hit me like a brick on the head: the lights and displays of Christmas time signify Jesus. Holy cow! I'm a little slow at realizing things, but am so thankful I was enlightened to that revelation (see what I did there?). John 8:12 says "Again Jesus spoke to them saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'"
So, not only is Jesus the focus and light of this season, and the neighborhood next to me, or the Rockefeller tree, he is the light of LIFE. The knowledge of knowing the lights and glory of God will be a bajillion times brighter than the best-lit Christmas display spurs me on to pursue Him even more, and I hope it will you, too.
It is my hope and prayer that each of you who reads this post, however many or few there are, would take a moment to reflect on the old cliche that Jesus truly is the "reason for the season." Sure, it's nice to wear ugly sweaters, go to parties with friends, and give and get presents, but remember the Light who was born in a smelly, dirty barn. He is the light of the season, and if you believe in Him, the ultimate light of life and into eternity.
PS What's your favorite Christmas Carol?
PPS White lights or multi-colored? (I'm team white lights)
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Before I get into the meat of this blog post, I'd like to give a disclaimer. I'm going to be talking about a topic that offends some people: Jesus. So if you get offended by what I say, or if you feel your emotions getting heated, resist the temptation to get grumpy about it and stop reading.
I have always loved Christmas lights. When I was little, I have fond memories of my family tradition of eating pizza by the Christmas tree, as well as loading up in the car and driving around town looking at the various Christmas displays in people's yards. We started those traditions when I was really little and just last weekend my brother & sister-in-law indulged me for my 27th birthday and took me to look at awesome displays in Kansas City. A couple of years ago, my family and I sat in a line for 2 hours on the street waiting to get into an awesomely lit neighborhood. Every chance I get, if there is a great neighborhood or park displaying lights, I try my best to get there!
With you knowing about my appreciation (and slight obsession, maybe) of Christmas displays, you will understand just how utterly thrilled I was to find I live in one of the premiere Christmas neighborhoods in Emporia! Thankfully, I'm about a block over, so I can get away with a simple LED yard light, but there is a horseshoe-shaped street next to my house in which every single house is decorated from the roof to the curb. It's so amazing! I love taking Ella for walks if it's not absolutely frigid. I wish there was some way to get them to decorate for every holiday like this.
One of the first nights I was walking Ella around Whoville, it hit me like a brick on the head: the lights and displays of Christmas time signify Jesus. Holy cow! I'm a little slow at realizing things, but am so thankful I was enlightened to that revelation (see what I did there?). John 8:12 says "Again Jesus spoke to them saying, 'I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.'"
So, not only is Jesus the focus and light of this season, and the neighborhood next to me, or the Rockefeller tree, he is the light of LIFE. The knowledge of knowing the lights and glory of God will be a bajillion times brighter than the best-lit Christmas display spurs me on to pursue Him even more, and I hope it will you, too.
It is my hope and prayer that each of you who reads this post, however many or few there are, would take a moment to reflect on the old cliche that Jesus truly is the "reason for the season." Sure, it's nice to wear ugly sweaters, go to parties with friends, and give and get presents, but remember the Light who was born in a smelly, dirty barn. He is the light of the season, and if you believe in Him, the ultimate light of life and into eternity.
PS What's your favorite Christmas Carol?
PPS White lights or multi-colored? (I'm team white lights)
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Thursday, November 3, 2016
The Rest of the Story
Hey again, everyone (hola madre!)...remember me? Sorry for the lapse in blog posts. I have had a lot to say, and have started many blog posts in my head, but writer's block got the best of me and I just couldn't finish up any of the ones I started. A lot has been going on, but I will spare you all the long and tedious blog post and talk about something important: glorification of God in what you do.
To catch you up on what has happened since my last blog post, I moved to Kansas from Texas because I took a job at a new clinic working with a close friend and about six other excellent therapists. While, yes, moving closer to friends and family is a huge bonus to moving back to the Midwest, after much thinking and reflection, I think it's become a little more clear: I think God guided me this direction because I was not glorifying Him where I was.
When I first graduated from PT school, I was adamant about finding a job in the metroplex and staying there to live the big city life. I interviewed a few places and got a job working for a giant, nationwide physical therapy company (this is not meant to be a bashing post, so please do not take it that way). There were promises of bonuses for performance, good benefits, and a competitive salary, so like a first-time employee I decided I'd be happy to work for such a place! I was sure within a few years I'd grow my skill set, start working on different certifications, and just live a carefree working life.
Fast forward about 20 months. My life had become a 5-day-a-week slog into the office to see as many patients as I could in 8 or 9 hours per day, then go home. I won't go into details, but after I finally realized how unhappy I was in that I wasn't making a difference in anyone's lives, but increasing the vacation home size of the higher ups at the company, I decided it was time to cut out the bitterness and resentment and find somewhere else to practice. As a Christian, my testimony and life are supposed to be reflections of Jesus, and all I was doing was "punching the clock" and just existing there. You really can't serve both God and money, guys. It just does not work.
Through various bible studies, sermons, podcasts, etc. God was clearly reminding me that life is not about me. It's about Him. I am (you are, we all are) created and brought onto this terrestrial ball to glorify Him the best we can with our lives while He has us here. Whether that is through work, school, parenting, or walking your dog, God is the only One who is to get the glory.
When I was in PT school, I said I'd never work with geriatrics. Never say always and never say never, because guess what? You'll be wrong. Since starting my new job, I've seen predominantly geriatric patients so far. Do I get to push them to their physical limits, jumping, running, and getting them back to the sport they love? Well, no. But what I do get to do is hear their stories about life. I get to hold back tears as I listen to a patient talk about how her husband passed away just before their 50th wedding anniversary; or about how a grandchild did the cutest thing; and even occasionally hear the same story 50 times because he or she lives alone and physical therapy is the one social interaction they have.
What does my patient population have to do with glorifying God? I am able to show them love when they need it, to listen to jokes or sad stories, and to do my best to have the attitude Jesus might have toward a person in need, just like Jesus does with me every.single.day.
With all of this being said, I am clearly an expert on glorifying God, so I hope you all took notes. Just kidding. I am about the biggest Pharisee you'll meet, unfortunately. I am not worthy of the blessings and the big shift in life I was provided. But I am thankful and humbled by a great God who I serve and hope to glorify more each day I'm still around here. I would also like to use this post as a nudge toward the person reading this who is contemplating whether or not they should change jobs because they can't stand the thought of going back to work each morning, for the kid in school who can't bear the thought of going to another class, or for the mom/housewife who is irritated because she has to clean up yet another mess. How do you glorify Him, even amidst the most frustrating situations? If you can't, make a change. Either pray for a change in situation, or pray for perseverance to push through it.
Thanks for hanging in there with me. It's good to be back! :)
PS What's the toughest situation you've found that you struggled to glorify God?
PPS Is it ever going to be winter? It's still in the 70s in Kansas!
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
To catch you up on what has happened since my last blog post, I moved to Kansas from Texas because I took a job at a new clinic working with a close friend and about six other excellent therapists. While, yes, moving closer to friends and family is a huge bonus to moving back to the Midwest, after much thinking and reflection, I think it's become a little more clear: I think God guided me this direction because I was not glorifying Him where I was.
When I first graduated from PT school, I was adamant about finding a job in the metroplex and staying there to live the big city life. I interviewed a few places and got a job working for a giant, nationwide physical therapy company (this is not meant to be a bashing post, so please do not take it that way). There were promises of bonuses for performance, good benefits, and a competitive salary, so like a first-time employee I decided I'd be happy to work for such a place! I was sure within a few years I'd grow my skill set, start working on different certifications, and just live a carefree working life.
Fast forward about 20 months. My life had become a 5-day-a-week slog into the office to see as many patients as I could in 8 or 9 hours per day, then go home. I won't go into details, but after I finally realized how unhappy I was in that I wasn't making a difference in anyone's lives, but increasing the vacation home size of the higher ups at the company, I decided it was time to cut out the bitterness and resentment and find somewhere else to practice. As a Christian, my testimony and life are supposed to be reflections of Jesus, and all I was doing was "punching the clock" and just existing there. You really can't serve both God and money, guys. It just does not work.
Through various bible studies, sermons, podcasts, etc. God was clearly reminding me that life is not about me. It's about Him. I am (you are, we all are) created and brought onto this terrestrial ball to glorify Him the best we can with our lives while He has us here. Whether that is through work, school, parenting, or walking your dog, God is the only One who is to get the glory.
When I was in PT school, I said I'd never work with geriatrics. Never say always and never say never, because guess what? You'll be wrong. Since starting my new job, I've seen predominantly geriatric patients so far. Do I get to push them to their physical limits, jumping, running, and getting them back to the sport they love? Well, no. But what I do get to do is hear their stories about life. I get to hold back tears as I listen to a patient talk about how her husband passed away just before their 50th wedding anniversary; or about how a grandchild did the cutest thing; and even occasionally hear the same story 50 times because he or she lives alone and physical therapy is the one social interaction they have.
What does my patient population have to do with glorifying God? I am able to show them love when they need it, to listen to jokes or sad stories, and to do my best to have the attitude Jesus might have toward a person in need, just like Jesus does with me every.single.day.
With all of this being said, I am clearly an expert on glorifying God, so I hope you all took notes. Just kidding. I am about the biggest Pharisee you'll meet, unfortunately. I am not worthy of the blessings and the big shift in life I was provided. But I am thankful and humbled by a great God who I serve and hope to glorify more each day I'm still around here. I would also like to use this post as a nudge toward the person reading this who is contemplating whether or not they should change jobs because they can't stand the thought of going back to work each morning, for the kid in school who can't bear the thought of going to another class, or for the mom/housewife who is irritated because she has to clean up yet another mess. How do you glorify Him, even amidst the most frustrating situations? If you can't, make a change. Either pray for a change in situation, or pray for perseverance to push through it.
Thanks for hanging in there with me. It's good to be back! :)
PS What's the toughest situation you've found that you struggled to glorify God?
PPS Is it ever going to be winter? It's still in the 70s in Kansas!
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Friday, July 29, 2016
Goodbye, Texas.
Happy almost August, wow! Hi, mom, thanks for walking Ella for me! I'm currently sitting inside a house cluttered with boxes, empty cabinets, and abnormal chaos and general disarray. Why, you might ask? I'm moving. Yes, you read that right. For someone who detests moving, this is my third packing and unpacking marathon in 3 summers. Maybe I do like it after all....just kidding. It's time to settle down for awhile, I think.
When I bought my house a year ago, I was pretty sure I was settling into the house I'd make a home for several years. I intentionally moved to Texas after graduating from PT school two years ago, a fulfillment of a childhood dream of one day becoming a resident of the illustrious Lonestar State. While it's been a fun 26 months, after much prayer, thought, and consideration, I've come to the conclusion it's time to move on. In the words of the NBA player I love to hate (er, strongly dislike), I've decided to take my talents back to the Sunflower State (I hope Kansas will accept my meager talents, and show me grace as I know I still have a lot to learn).
I've been happy with Texas, and who knows, maybe someday in the distant future I'll return, but right now the right move in my life and current place in my career is to go live and learn in Kansas. Sure, I'll have to get used to cold weather and snow again, but I'm so excited to be able to wear cute boots and fleece jackets for more than one week each year. Forewarning: expect a little bit of whining during the winter. It's just going to happen. Ella is also really excited to play in snow and pretty-colored fall leaves!
During my time in Texas, I had the opportunity to work in a good environment, and got to fine tune my time management, patient management, and communication skills; I'm really excited to have been blessed with an awesome new job offer where I'll get to learn a little more and get to really hone in my skills and become a great therapist. I'd be lying if I said my job has been stress-free, because it was definitely a big adjustment learning how to be a grown-up, especially hours away from my family.
Another big reason to head north is for that very reason-- I'll be much closer to my family. I can even go home after work on a Friday evening and get home before midnight! Bonus: I'll live really close to my brother and new sis-in-law (#winning!). Hopefully they're okay with that, too... Almost as important as being close to my family is the fact that I'll be close to the Jayhawks and can pretty much go to games at Allen Fieldhouse as much as I want (and as much as my wallet will allow). RCJH!
So, where in Kansas am I moving? I'm going to be an Emporian! One of my really close friends from PT school lives and works there, and has been trying to convince me to go to Emporia since I moved to Texas. I finally took the bait, and literally couldn't be more excited. City living has been fun, but I definitely miss the benefits and closeness of a smaller community, and just the Midwest in general. Having lived in the Midwest and Texas, I can honestly say, Midwest is best. I don't care what true blue Texans say, there really is "no place like home", and no people are as great as Midwesterners. I've had multiple people ask if I'm actually excited to return to the "boring, flat land" and I am, 100%. Growing up, my parents told me it's not about the place, it's about the people, and I'm finally figuring out that that's mostly true.
While I'll miss Target being 5 minutes away, and driving by the big city lights, my new digs are super close to lots of cities, and I'll be right in the middle of lots of cool places, which is awesome! There are even tons of races in Kansas, and I've already registered for a few! I'm super grateful for this new opportunity, and know that there's a reason for it. Proverbs 16:3 says "commit your plans to the Lord, and you will succeed." I know He goes before me, and I'm so excited to figure out what His plans are in Kansas!
Until next time, when I'll be blogging from my new home. Thanks again for sticking with me to the end!
PS What's your favorite region of the USA?
PPS What event are you most excited to watch in the Olympics? Mine are gymnastics, swimming, & beach VB!
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
When I bought my house a year ago, I was pretty sure I was settling into the house I'd make a home for several years. I intentionally moved to Texas after graduating from PT school two years ago, a fulfillment of a childhood dream of one day becoming a resident of the illustrious Lonestar State. While it's been a fun 26 months, after much prayer, thought, and consideration, I've come to the conclusion it's time to move on. In the words of the NBA player I love to hate (er, strongly dislike), I've decided to take my talents back to the Sunflower State (I hope Kansas will accept my meager talents, and show me grace as I know I still have a lot to learn).
I've been happy with Texas, and who knows, maybe someday in the distant future I'll return, but right now the right move in my life and current place in my career is to go live and learn in Kansas. Sure, I'll have to get used to cold weather and snow again, but I'm so excited to be able to wear cute boots and fleece jackets for more than one week each year. Forewarning: expect a little bit of whining during the winter. It's just going to happen. Ella is also really excited to play in snow and pretty-colored fall leaves!
During my time in Texas, I had the opportunity to work in a good environment, and got to fine tune my time management, patient management, and communication skills; I'm really excited to have been blessed with an awesome new job offer where I'll get to learn a little more and get to really hone in my skills and become a great therapist. I'd be lying if I said my job has been stress-free, because it was definitely a big adjustment learning how to be a grown-up, especially hours away from my family.
Another big reason to head north is for that very reason-- I'll be much closer to my family. I can even go home after work on a Friday evening and get home before midnight! Bonus: I'll live really close to my brother and new sis-in-law (#winning!). Hopefully they're okay with that, too... Almost as important as being close to my family is the fact that I'll be close to the Jayhawks and can pretty much go to games at Allen Fieldhouse as much as I want (and as much as my wallet will allow). RCJH!
So, where in Kansas am I moving? I'm going to be an Emporian! One of my really close friends from PT school lives and works there, and has been trying to convince me to go to Emporia since I moved to Texas. I finally took the bait, and literally couldn't be more excited. City living has been fun, but I definitely miss the benefits and closeness of a smaller community, and just the Midwest in general. Having lived in the Midwest and Texas, I can honestly say, Midwest is best. I don't care what true blue Texans say, there really is "no place like home", and no people are as great as Midwesterners. I've had multiple people ask if I'm actually excited to return to the "boring, flat land" and I am, 100%. Growing up, my parents told me it's not about the place, it's about the people, and I'm finally figuring out that that's mostly true.
While I'll miss Target being 5 minutes away, and driving by the big city lights, my new digs are super close to lots of cities, and I'll be right in the middle of lots of cool places, which is awesome! There are even tons of races in Kansas, and I've already registered for a few! I'm super grateful for this new opportunity, and know that there's a reason for it. Proverbs 16:3 says "commit your plans to the Lord, and you will succeed." I know He goes before me, and I'm so excited to figure out what His plans are in Kansas!
Until next time, when I'll be blogging from my new home. Thanks again for sticking with me to the end!
PS What's your favorite region of the USA?
PPS What event are you most excited to watch in the Olympics? Mine are gymnastics, swimming, & beach VB!
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Sunday, July 17, 2016
The Wedding
Happy July, everyone (hi Mom)! I'm currently engaged in an intense game of living room fetch, featuring Ella and her favorite pink rope. She is 45 pounds of pure terror and spoiled rottenness now. She just got "fixed" and everyone tells me she'll calm down, but I have yet to see much progress. I think I got the one hyperactive poodle mix in the world <insert crying face>.
I've been so excited to write this post, but was occupied with lots of different things over the past week and am just now having a few minutes to sit and write about what was one of my favorite weekends of my LIFE. For those of you who somehow missed it, my brother got married last Saturday. I have to admit, since Jace proposed to Andreia my life was like a real-life version of "Inside Out" and then some. I have felt every emotion, as I'm sure they have, but in the end joy, love, and happiness overcame everything as usual.
I got to go home to start participating in wedding weekend on Thursday evening. That evening was Andreia's last girls' night, and it was a blast as well as a precious time for all of us to relax and spend time with the amazing bride and get to know each other better. What happens at the last night as a single woman stays in that evening though, so let's move on, shall we?
Friday was a whirlwind of a day, starting with brunch at Andreia's aunts house, with most of the girls in the bridal partypresent. We got to celebrate her and game plan what needed to be done during the rest of that day before the rehearsal that afternoon. The rest of that day was spent tying up all of the loose ends that were incomplete and in the blink of an eye, it was time for the rehearsal.
Unbeknownst to some, I pride myself on not being a big crier, but I'm pretty sure I cried at some point or another for 4 or 5 days in a row, a record (just kidding). This started Thursday night, but carried into the rehearsal on Friday. Seeing my brother and new sister-in-law together preparing to enter into a monumental covenant in their lives was just pretty emotional.
Thankfully, the emotions subsided a bit at the rehearsal dinner, where we had some amazing BBQ, then played a game of pumpkin ball. I was on the bride and groom's team and we lost in extra innings, but let's be real, they won everything else that weekend so God had to humble them somehow.
The next day started early with meeting the rest of the girls at the reception site, none other than a Kansas farm (it was really awesome, you guys). The local nursing home was kind enough to let us borrow their transportation bus to get to the church and back, so we blasted the radio to the church and just had a fun time. Once we got to the church, it was time for hair makeup, and Taco Bell tacos in our 'Feed Me Tacos & Tell Me I'm Beautiful' tank tops. After we were as pretty as we could get, we headed outside in the heat to sweat through a couple hours of pictures! Thankfully our photographer was amazing and you can't even tell in the pictures that we were all pouring sweat! PS those photos are not mine to share so you'll have to stay posted for those. I assure you they're incredible though.
Once our photos were finished it was time to relax for about an hour, then we were ready for the main event! There were lots of people to witness this beautiful event. The bridal party formed a circle around the altar, then came Andreia down the aisle. She was (and is) a gorgeous bride, inside and out. There aren't many people on earth like her, and I don't say that lightly. For example, there were 12 attendants and multiple other people helping with the wedding, and she knew them all personally. I was talking to Jace before the wedding about how far people traveled to see them get married, and how Andreia had expressed how humbled she was by this; Jace simply said with a smile, "that's who I'm marrying."
Most weddings are beautiful in some way, but never have I been to a wedding like this. I'm biased, yes, but this wedding was about more than just Jace & Andreia. They made sure their wedding reflected and emphasized our eventual wedding with Jesus, whenever that glorious day comes. Christ was the central theme and filled this happy occasion with so much grace and pure joy that only He can provide.
I will admit, I made it through the first 5 minutes or so without much display of emotion but once the pastor (a close family friend) began talking about Jace and Andreia, and their relationships with their families, I stopped gnawing a hole in my cheek and let a few tears roll. Then, he mentioned how close Jace and I have always been, and Jace made eye contact with me and we both lost it. I'm convinced the pastor did that just because he hadn't seen either of us cry before (sort of kidding). They continued with beautiful vows they had written for each other, lit a unity candle, kissed, and were pronounced the new Mr. & Mrs. Moore!
Then it was back onto the nursing home mobile to eat some delicious Mexican food and pie at the reception! The barn where the reception was held was decorated so elegantly, but had a small town Kansas feel to it, and it was truly awesome. The best man, maid of honor, a couple of Andreia's close friends and I were able to give toasts. I wrote my speech the Tuesday before the wedding, and read it a few times during the week. I hadn't made it through practice reads without crying, so I knew it was going to be challenging with Jace actually there at the reception. Most people will never understand our bond, and that's ok because it's pretty special and unique. I definitely cried like a little kid while giving the toast, and at one point even had to have Jace come up for a hug so I could get through the rest of it. But once it was over, the rest of the reception was pretty smooth sailing, full of lots of dancing and good conversation.
The newlyweds were supposed to be sent off with sparklers at 11:30, and we tried to send them away around then, but they wouldn't leave! That's just the people they are though, always thinking about others. They were sure to tell their guests thank you and goodbye before they changed and went away. I was able to give a big hug to my brother and new sister before they left, our first as a new 3 best friend unit (just kidding....I'm still adjusting to being BFF #2, but I'm ok with it).
What did I learn? In four short words: Christ must be central. The entire wedding weekend was a bold reminder of the love Jesus has for us, even in our sinful state on this earth. I can't wait to see His face and unite with Him as His bride someday soon. Given the state of this earth right now, I hope it's REALLY soon. Thank you, Jace and Andreia, for this wonderful picture of God's love on display in real life. I love you both and can't wait to see how else He is going to work in your lives as the Moore's.
PS Stay tuned for the next blog post. I've got big news!
PPS Any encouraging words I can share with the new Moore's? Let me know in the comments!
IG: @jenbeingjen
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
I've been so excited to write this post, but was occupied with lots of different things over the past week and am just now having a few minutes to sit and write about what was one of my favorite weekends of my LIFE. For those of you who somehow missed it, my brother got married last Saturday. I have to admit, since Jace proposed to Andreia my life was like a real-life version of "Inside Out" and then some. I have felt every emotion, as I'm sure they have, but in the end joy, love, and happiness overcame everything as usual.
I got to go home to start participating in wedding weekend on Thursday evening. That evening was Andreia's last girls' night, and it was a blast as well as a precious time for all of us to relax and spend time with the amazing bride and get to know each other better. What happens at the last night as a single woman stays in that evening though, so let's move on, shall we?
Friday was a whirlwind of a day, starting with brunch at Andreia's aunts house, with most of the girls in the bridal partypresent. We got to celebrate her and game plan what needed to be done during the rest of that day before the rehearsal that afternoon. The rest of that day was spent tying up all of the loose ends that were incomplete and in the blink of an eye, it was time for the rehearsal.
Unbeknownst to some, I pride myself on not being a big crier, but I'm pretty sure I cried at some point or another for 4 or 5 days in a row, a record (just kidding). This started Thursday night, but carried into the rehearsal on Friday. Seeing my brother and new sister-in-law together preparing to enter into a monumental covenant in their lives was just pretty emotional.
Thankfully, the emotions subsided a bit at the rehearsal dinner, where we had some amazing BBQ, then played a game of pumpkin ball. I was on the bride and groom's team and we lost in extra innings, but let's be real, they won everything else that weekend so God had to humble them somehow.
The next day started early with meeting the rest of the girls at the reception site, none other than a Kansas farm (it was really awesome, you guys). The local nursing home was kind enough to let us borrow their transportation bus to get to the church and back, so we blasted the radio to the church and just had a fun time. Once we got to the church, it was time for hair makeup, and Taco Bell tacos in our 'Feed Me Tacos & Tell Me I'm Beautiful' tank tops. After we were as pretty as we could get, we headed outside in the heat to sweat through a couple hours of pictures! Thankfully our photographer was amazing and you can't even tell in the pictures that we were all pouring sweat! PS those photos are not mine to share so you'll have to stay posted for those. I assure you they're incredible though.
Once our photos were finished it was time to relax for about an hour, then we were ready for the main event! There were lots of people to witness this beautiful event. The bridal party formed a circle around the altar, then came Andreia down the aisle. She was (and is) a gorgeous bride, inside and out. There aren't many people on earth like her, and I don't say that lightly. For example, there were 12 attendants and multiple other people helping with the wedding, and she knew them all personally. I was talking to Jace before the wedding about how far people traveled to see them get married, and how Andreia had expressed how humbled she was by this; Jace simply said with a smile, "that's who I'm marrying."
Most weddings are beautiful in some way, but never have I been to a wedding like this. I'm biased, yes, but this wedding was about more than just Jace & Andreia. They made sure their wedding reflected and emphasized our eventual wedding with Jesus, whenever that glorious day comes. Christ was the central theme and filled this happy occasion with so much grace and pure joy that only He can provide.
I will admit, I made it through the first 5 minutes or so without much display of emotion but once the pastor (a close family friend) began talking about Jace and Andreia, and their relationships with their families, I stopped gnawing a hole in my cheek and let a few tears roll. Then, he mentioned how close Jace and I have always been, and Jace made eye contact with me and we both lost it. I'm convinced the pastor did that just because he hadn't seen either of us cry before (sort of kidding). They continued with beautiful vows they had written for each other, lit a unity candle, kissed, and were pronounced the new Mr. & Mrs. Moore!
Then it was back onto the nursing home mobile to eat some delicious Mexican food and pie at the reception! The barn where the reception was held was decorated so elegantly, but had a small town Kansas feel to it, and it was truly awesome. The best man, maid of honor, a couple of Andreia's close friends and I were able to give toasts. I wrote my speech the Tuesday before the wedding, and read it a few times during the week. I hadn't made it through practice reads without crying, so I knew it was going to be challenging with Jace actually there at the reception. Most people will never understand our bond, and that's ok because it's pretty special and unique. I definitely cried like a little kid while giving the toast, and at one point even had to have Jace come up for a hug so I could get through the rest of it. But once it was over, the rest of the reception was pretty smooth sailing, full of lots of dancing and good conversation.
The newlyweds were supposed to be sent off with sparklers at 11:30, and we tried to send them away around then, but they wouldn't leave! That's just the people they are though, always thinking about others. They were sure to tell their guests thank you and goodbye before they changed and went away. I was able to give a big hug to my brother and new sister before they left, our first as a new 3 best friend unit (just kidding....I'm still adjusting to being BFF #2, but I'm ok with it).
What did I learn? In four short words: Christ must be central. The entire wedding weekend was a bold reminder of the love Jesus has for us, even in our sinful state on this earth. I can't wait to see His face and unite with Him as His bride someday soon. Given the state of this earth right now, I hope it's REALLY soon. Thank you, Jace and Andreia, for this wonderful picture of God's love on display in real life. I love you both and can't wait to see how else He is going to work in your lives as the Moore's.
PS Stay tuned for the next blog post. I've got big news!
PPS Any encouraging words I can share with the new Moore's? Let me know in the comments!
IG: @jenbeingjen
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
The Life Update
Hey there, everyone (hi, Mom)! It's been a few days/weeks/months since I updated this little blog! I have both intentionally and unintentionally been neglecting it. Intentionally in that I've been relatively busy traveling and spending quality time with people I'm pretty close to, and unintentionally in that my computer was on the fritz for a few weeks. Funny story on that one. I thought my computer had finally bit the dust, because nothing would load, I couldn't connect to the internet, and it was functioning at the speed of dial-up. I just let it die and sit on my desk for several weeks in frustration. Finally, I thought to myself, maybe I should just try turning it on and restarting it. Mission complete: I have a pretty fully functioning laptop again! Hooray!
First and foremost, for those of you wondering about my "dogter", Ella, she's still alive and well. In the four months I've had her, she's gone from a sweet little 8 pound pup to a 40 pound running, jumping, brilliantly klutzy dog. We are still figuring each other out and don't always like each other, but I'm glad she's in my life. She's a fun challenge and I think she likes me most of the time (and vice versa).
I have continued to run, of course. In preparation for the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego 1/2 Marathon, I did a 10-mile race in Dallas, and just completed my umpteenth 5K at the Wounded Warrior Military Miles 5K in Irving over the past weekend. Before I write about my San Diego trip, I'm officially announcing my retirement/hiatus from long-distance running, for those of you who hadn't already been informed. I ran my first half marathon in October 2014 and since then have completed 5 halfs. Frankly, I'm a little burnt out on training, my body is a wreck, and I am ready to focus on other aspects of fitness for a while. I do plan on pulling a Michael Jordan and returning to the half marathon in approximately 2 years, so look for a blog post on my sixth half marathon in winter 2018. ;)
Now for the fun part of this post: SAN DIEGO. Most of ya'll know, I love taking racecations, and my friend Shane and I have now done 4 half marathons together, 2 of which were to amazing destinations. The first was, of course, Disney World, and this time we took it to the left coast for the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego half marathon. We also brought along two other friends, our two additional sole sisters. As a team of four we are running 2,016 miles this year.
This was my first trip to California, and I was more than excited to get a taste of the beautiful weather, beaches, and scenery I'd heard so much about for many years. I expected it to be similar to Florida, since both are beachy and touristy, but I was w-r-o-n-g. To compare SD to Florida is like comparing apples to oranges, because they're completely different places entirely.
I was shocked to find that San Diego is jam-packed to the gills. Literally. Everything is built on top of everything else and it's just clustered and busy! I also expected the weather to be muggy and warm, but that was also another mistake. It was pleasantly cool in the evenings (around 60!) and warmed up to 75 or 80 during the day, but it wasn't humid, which was thrilling!
While in San Diego I ate some good food, and some not great food. My favorite meal was not really a meal....it was the ice cream. I ate ice cream three times in five days, and I don't regret a second of it. I also had some delicious spinach and chicken gnocchi for my pre-race carb load Saturday night. My least favorite meal was at a little Mexican restaurant in the Gas Lamp district. I ordered a bowl which included shrimp, rice, and beans. To my dismay the shrimp was unpeeled and I learned that shrimp have legs. I just couldn't stomach peeling the little guys who still had their extremities and tasted like they came straight out of the dirt at the bottom of the Pacific.
Another highlight of my trip was seeing Switchfoot in concert. I can't even tell you how thrilled it made me to see them in their hometown at the Del Mar fairgrounds right off the coast. It was an amazing show (as all 5 of the shows I've been to have been) and I thoroughly enjoyed singing along to each song for the 90 minute (!) show.
I was able to see the amazing wildlife at the San Diego Zoo, and also visited multiple museums at Balboa Park in San Diego. They have 19 museums there, but our daily admission pass only allowed us to check out five of them. I saw some awesome old automobiles, learned about ancient Egypt and genealogy, and saw Tony Gwynn's jersey on a wall. Pretty sweet stuff. We also spent some time on the beach. The water was much colder than I expected, but like usual, I got in and took advantage of it. Unfortunately, a sting ray got ahold of my left foot and left me with a nice souvenir. Thankfully, after 90 minutes of hot water soaking, the toxin dissolved and I was back to 100%. Seriously the weirdest thing ever, but praise God it didn't do any real damage.
Finally, for the wrap-up of the reason I went to San Diego in the first place: the half marathon. Going into this event, I had zero expectations and my only goal was to finish. I developed a shin splint in my left leg a few weeks prior and cut out most of my heavy distance training because it just wasn't worth it to me to have excruciating pain with every step. I was still running several miles each week, but broke it up into 1-3 miles each day and stopped doing super long runs aside from the 10-mile run in Dallas two weeks prior to heading to SD.
I had always heard the RNR race series was super fun and interactive, so what better place to participate than a tropical locale? The race course did not disappoint. The path took us through multiple San Diego neighborhoods, where there were fans cheering us on pretty much the entire way! It was so funny to read the signs, see the roadside table set-ups, and hear the different high school cheerleading squads and bands root us on. There were also several live bands along the course, which added to the awesomeness of the race.
The first 6 miles were up and down with a few bigger hills, but after that it was mostly a flat race, which I totally appreciated. For the first time ever, I had to stop during the race at a restroom pitstop, and it just so happened that it occurred after one measly mile. Oh well! I finished the race and got a sweet sparkly medal and a fun t-shirt, so I was happy. After the race we walked another mile or so to the main stage and got to listen to a concert by Gavin DeGraw. I scoffed at first because he is kind of a "has-been", but he put on a great show for an hour and a half.
All in all, the trip to San Diego was special and was a blast! I'm now thoroughly enjoying retirement and looking forward to lifting weights and improving upon my 5K time through some speed workouts. I hope running will always be part of my life in some capacity, but for now my health is going to take priority! To those of you who are still with me, thanks for sticking it out to the end.
PS Are you partial to the east coast or west coast?
PPS Where should half marathon #6 be in 2018?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
First and foremost, for those of you wondering about my "dogter", Ella, she's still alive and well. In the four months I've had her, she's gone from a sweet little 8 pound pup to a 40 pound running, jumping, brilliantly klutzy dog. We are still figuring each other out and don't always like each other, but I'm glad she's in my life. She's a fun challenge and I think she likes me most of the time (and vice versa).
I have continued to run, of course. In preparation for the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego 1/2 Marathon, I did a 10-mile race in Dallas, and just completed my umpteenth 5K at the Wounded Warrior Military Miles 5K in Irving over the past weekend. Before I write about my San Diego trip, I'm officially announcing my retirement/hiatus from long-distance running, for those of you who hadn't already been informed. I ran my first half marathon in October 2014 and since then have completed 5 halfs. Frankly, I'm a little burnt out on training, my body is a wreck, and I am ready to focus on other aspects of fitness for a while. I do plan on pulling a Michael Jordan and returning to the half marathon in approximately 2 years, so look for a blog post on my sixth half marathon in winter 2018. ;)
Now for the fun part of this post: SAN DIEGO. Most of ya'll know, I love taking racecations, and my friend Shane and I have now done 4 half marathons together, 2 of which were to amazing destinations. The first was, of course, Disney World, and this time we took it to the left coast for the Rock 'n' Roll San Diego half marathon. We also brought along two other friends, our two additional sole sisters. As a team of four we are running 2,016 miles this year.
This was my first trip to California, and I was more than excited to get a taste of the beautiful weather, beaches, and scenery I'd heard so much about for many years. I expected it to be similar to Florida, since both are beachy and touristy, but I was w-r-o-n-g. To compare SD to Florida is like comparing apples to oranges, because they're completely different places entirely.
 |
| Torrey Pine trees over the Pacific at Torrey Pines |
I was shocked to find that San Diego is jam-packed to the gills. Literally. Everything is built on top of everything else and it's just clustered and busy! I also expected the weather to be muggy and warm, but that was also another mistake. It was pleasantly cool in the evenings (around 60!) and warmed up to 75 or 80 during the day, but it wasn't humid, which was thrilling!
While in San Diego I ate some good food, and some not great food. My favorite meal was not really a meal....it was the ice cream. I ate ice cream three times in five days, and I don't regret a second of it. I also had some delicious spinach and chicken gnocchi for my pre-race carb load Saturday night. My least favorite meal was at a little Mexican restaurant in the Gas Lamp district. I ordered a bowl which included shrimp, rice, and beans. To my dismay the shrimp was unpeeled and I learned that shrimp have legs. I just couldn't stomach peeling the little guys who still had their extremities and tasted like they came straight out of the dirt at the bottom of the Pacific.
 |
| Scotch Eggs at Balboa Park for brunch |
 |
| One of many delicious ice cream treats (FYI brown sugar ice cream is delectable) |
 |
| Spinach & Chicken Gnocchi at a fancy Italian restaurant I wore workout clothes to for dinner :) |
Another highlight of my trip was seeing Switchfoot in concert. I can't even tell you how thrilled it made me to see them in their hometown at the Del Mar fairgrounds right off the coast. It was an amazing show (as all 5 of the shows I've been to have been) and I thoroughly enjoyed singing along to each song for the 90 minute (!) show.
I was able to see the amazing wildlife at the San Diego Zoo, and also visited multiple museums at Balboa Park in San Diego. They have 19 museums there, but our daily admission pass only allowed us to check out five of them. I saw some awesome old automobiles, learned about ancient Egypt and genealogy, and saw Tony Gwynn's jersey on a wall. Pretty sweet stuff. We also spent some time on the beach. The water was much colder than I expected, but like usual, I got in and took advantage of it. Unfortunately, a sting ray got ahold of my left foot and left me with a nice souvenir. Thankfully, after 90 minutes of hot water soaking, the toxin dissolved and I was back to 100%. Seriously the weirdest thing ever, but praise God it didn't do any real damage.
 |
| Koala hanging out. I officially decided the koala is my spirit animal. DYK--they sleep 20 hours/day! |
Finally, for the wrap-up of the reason I went to San Diego in the first place: the half marathon. Going into this event, I had zero expectations and my only goal was to finish. I developed a shin splint in my left leg a few weeks prior and cut out most of my heavy distance training because it just wasn't worth it to me to have excruciating pain with every step. I was still running several miles each week, but broke it up into 1-3 miles each day and stopped doing super long runs aside from the 10-mile run in Dallas two weeks prior to heading to SD.
I had always heard the RNR race series was super fun and interactive, so what better place to participate than a tropical locale? The race course did not disappoint. The path took us through multiple San Diego neighborhoods, where there were fans cheering us on pretty much the entire way! It was so funny to read the signs, see the roadside table set-ups, and hear the different high school cheerleading squads and bands root us on. There were also several live bands along the course, which added to the awesomeness of the race.
The first 6 miles were up and down with a few bigger hills, but after that it was mostly a flat race, which I totally appreciated. For the first time ever, I had to stop during the race at a restroom pitstop, and it just so happened that it occurred after one measly mile. Oh well! I finished the race and got a sweet sparkly medal and a fun t-shirt, so I was happy. After the race we walked another mile or so to the main stage and got to listen to a concert by Gavin DeGraw. I scoffed at first because he is kind of a "has-been", but he put on a great show for an hour and a half.
 |
| Post-half marathon with my Sole Sisters! |
All in all, the trip to San Diego was special and was a blast! I'm now thoroughly enjoying retirement and looking forward to lifting weights and improving upon my 5K time through some speed workouts. I hope running will always be part of my life in some capacity, but for now my health is going to take priority! To those of you who are still with me, thanks for sticking it out to the end.
PS Are you partial to the east coast or west coast?
PPS Where should half marathon #6 be in 2018?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Saturday, April 16, 2016
Bachelor Best Fest
Hi, readers (hi, and hope you're surviving the monsoon, Mom)! I think I forgot to post anything last week, but oh well. This week's post will more than make up for it! Quick life update: I'm training for a half marathon, raising a puppy, and working. The end. Just kidding (kinda).
I am going to dive right into the topic of this week's blog: the Bachelor Best Fest. When my brother got engaged in February, I'll admit, I had a couple of tough days realizing it's not the Jace & Jen show anymore, and that he's moving along in life to start his own family. I couldn't be more excited about my future sister-in-law and all of the adventures they'll experience together, and that I'll share with her as part of our bigger, better, awesome-r family unit. It's just that, whenever we were young my parents told us "You two will have friends come and go throughout your life, but you'll always be in each other's lives, so be best friends." For whatever reason, probably the grace of God, we stuck to that. In most relationships, you hear people say they've had their issues and tough times, and sure Jace & I have gotten into a few arguments here and there, but I can truly say I don't feel like we've ever really had major dysfunction or problems with each other. It's a one of a kind thing, so understandably, him moving on is happy and sad (in a happy way).
Anyway, before I get too mushy, Jace & I decided that we needed one "last" best friends hangout weekend before he ties the knot. Unfortunately there wasn't a Switchfoot concert anywhere near us, so we settled for the next best thing: the beach. We toyed with a few ideas and a few beaches before settling on a random town near Texas, Surfside Beach. It's about an hour southwest of Galveston.
We got up early Saturday morning, and had Dunkin Donuts for breakfast, because we're obsessed with Dunkin and our dad raised us well. Then we hit the road for four and a half hours. When we pulled up to Surfside, we went over an intercoastal waterway bridge, and all of the sudden there was ocean as far as the eye can see. I don't care how old I get, the first sight of the ocean after not being there for some time will never ever get old. Some might call it an obsession; I'm fine with that.
We grabbed some greasy food at a little local place across the street from the beach, then went to spend some time by the water. We were pretty sleepy, so a beachside nap was in order. After that, we just started walking. We talked about everything under the sun (literally and figuratively) for a couple of hours. Then once we realized our legs were getting kind of tired and we were hungry yet again, we headed to Clute, TX, about 10 minutes from the beach. We went to the grocery store and got some amazing food at a well-reviewed Mexican restaurant. Unfortunately, my computer isn't cooperating, so I can't share pictures. We decided to share an appetizer of shrimp and rice in an amazing southwestern/Mexican-style sauce. Then we had tres leches cake, which was divine as usual.
Then we headed back to the hotel at what seemed like 10 pm, but was really about 8 if I remember correctly. Jace remembered to pack the N64 in his luggage, so we played Mario Kart, reminiscent of many years growing up, as well as the 2 years we were roommates in Wichita while I went to PT school and he played baseball and studied in undergrad. It was so much fun! I was so tired though, so at one point I was basically driving and sleeping and forgot to push the button and my little character's car went nowhere....being 26 is exhausting.
The next morning, I really wanted to get in a little beachside run while the sun was rising. We got up pretty early and drove back to Surfside. I also wish I could share a picture of the sunrise with you. Southwest Kansas has gorgeous sunrises, but there is no such a thing as a more beautiful sunrise over the ocean. I think I was meant to be a mermaid. Or a beach bum. We ran a couple of miles and just talked about life some more. I secretly think Jace is actually the oldest child, because he's way more wise, mature, and knowledgeable than me.
After we ran, we had breakfast and went to buy some kites and a football to play with on the beach. I don't know if I'd ever flown a kite before, but it was pretty cool. I felt like such a kid again. We played catch with the football in the ocean too, and I got seriously tackled by a couple of waves. So much fun. After a few hours of fun and unknowingly burning to a crisp we decided to have one last meal on the beach. I had shrimp tacos, which were good, but really weird to eat. I just feel like shrimp should be consumed by the whole, so trying to bite them in half as part of a taco felt awkward.
The ride home was a little tough because we were both pretty exhausted from spending all that time in the sun, but it was good to just keep talking and having important life discussions (and not important discussions, too). I'm so thankful we got to hang out for our "bachelor best fest." More than that, I'm grateful to God every day that I was blessed with such a close relationship with my brother. I can't wait to see how it changes and grows with all of the big things happening in the next year!
PS For you Cali & Florida beach snobs, a beach is a beach. I just had to get that off my chest. Go grow up in Kansas.
PPS What's the best road trip or beach you've ever been on/to?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
I am going to dive right into the topic of this week's blog: the Bachelor Best Fest. When my brother got engaged in February, I'll admit, I had a couple of tough days realizing it's not the Jace & Jen show anymore, and that he's moving along in life to start his own family. I couldn't be more excited about my future sister-in-law and all of the adventures they'll experience together, and that I'll share with her as part of our bigger, better, awesome-r family unit. It's just that, whenever we were young my parents told us "You two will have friends come and go throughout your life, but you'll always be in each other's lives, so be best friends." For whatever reason, probably the grace of God, we stuck to that. In most relationships, you hear people say they've had their issues and tough times, and sure Jace & I have gotten into a few arguments here and there, but I can truly say I don't feel like we've ever really had major dysfunction or problems with each other. It's a one of a kind thing, so understandably, him moving on is happy and sad (in a happy way).
Anyway, before I get too mushy, Jace & I decided that we needed one "last" best friends hangout weekend before he ties the knot. Unfortunately there wasn't a Switchfoot concert anywhere near us, so we settled for the next best thing: the beach. We toyed with a few ideas and a few beaches before settling on a random town near Texas, Surfside Beach. It's about an hour southwest of Galveston.
We got up early Saturday morning, and had Dunkin Donuts for breakfast, because we're obsessed with Dunkin and our dad raised us well. Then we hit the road for four and a half hours. When we pulled up to Surfside, we went over an intercoastal waterway bridge, and all of the sudden there was ocean as far as the eye can see. I don't care how old I get, the first sight of the ocean after not being there for some time will never ever get old. Some might call it an obsession; I'm fine with that.
We grabbed some greasy food at a little local place across the street from the beach, then went to spend some time by the water. We were pretty sleepy, so a beachside nap was in order. After that, we just started walking. We talked about everything under the sun (literally and figuratively) for a couple of hours. Then once we realized our legs were getting kind of tired and we were hungry yet again, we headed to Clute, TX, about 10 minutes from the beach. We went to the grocery store and got some amazing food at a well-reviewed Mexican restaurant. Unfortunately, my computer isn't cooperating, so I can't share pictures. We decided to share an appetizer of shrimp and rice in an amazing southwestern/Mexican-style sauce. Then we had tres leches cake, which was divine as usual.
Then we headed back to the hotel at what seemed like 10 pm, but was really about 8 if I remember correctly. Jace remembered to pack the N64 in his luggage, so we played Mario Kart, reminiscent of many years growing up, as well as the 2 years we were roommates in Wichita while I went to PT school and he played baseball and studied in undergrad. It was so much fun! I was so tired though, so at one point I was basically driving and sleeping and forgot to push the button and my little character's car went nowhere....being 26 is exhausting.
The next morning, I really wanted to get in a little beachside run while the sun was rising. We got up pretty early and drove back to Surfside. I also wish I could share a picture of the sunrise with you. Southwest Kansas has gorgeous sunrises, but there is no such a thing as a more beautiful sunrise over the ocean. I think I was meant to be a mermaid. Or a beach bum. We ran a couple of miles and just talked about life some more. I secretly think Jace is actually the oldest child, because he's way more wise, mature, and knowledgeable than me.
After we ran, we had breakfast and went to buy some kites and a football to play with on the beach. I don't know if I'd ever flown a kite before, but it was pretty cool. I felt like such a kid again. We played catch with the football in the ocean too, and I got seriously tackled by a couple of waves. So much fun. After a few hours of fun and unknowingly burning to a crisp we decided to have one last meal on the beach. I had shrimp tacos, which were good, but really weird to eat. I just feel like shrimp should be consumed by the whole, so trying to bite them in half as part of a taco felt awkward.
The ride home was a little tough because we were both pretty exhausted from spending all that time in the sun, but it was good to just keep talking and having important life discussions (and not important discussions, too). I'm so thankful we got to hang out for our "bachelor best fest." More than that, I'm grateful to God every day that I was blessed with such a close relationship with my brother. I can't wait to see how it changes and grows with all of the big things happening in the next year!
PS For you Cali & Florida beach snobs, a beach is a beach. I just had to get that off my chest. Go grow up in Kansas.
PPS What's the best road trip or beach you've ever been on/to?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Sunday, April 3, 2016
The Significance of Hills
It's April, guys (hi Mom)! I find it so hard to believe the year is already 1/4 over....it was just New Year's Day, wasn't it? Gotta enjoy it while it's here, or else it's gone quickly! It definitely feels like early summer in North Texas, and there are already wasp nests in every corner of the front porch. Sigh. Anyone want to come tackle them with wasp spray and a broom? We all know I'm a giant crybaby when it comes to bugs.
I have just been running, working, sleeping, and repeating. Holy smokes, there are a lot of injured people right now, and I'm trying to just help get them back to normal but it has been a little taxing being so busy, I'll admit. Half marathon training is also taking up a lot of time, but I'm still really enjoying my training plan by Nike! I have not done the same workout twice, so there's not really the whole "falling into the same old routine" thing going on, which is refreshing. Some of the longer runs are still tough but challenge builds character, right?
Speaking of running and "longer" distances, I got to head out to East Texas yesterday morning for the Tyler Azalea 10K. I've always heard that the eastern part of the Lonestar State is really pretty, so I decided to run a race there and find out for myself! WOW. Everyone was right, as it turns out. First of all, the weather was about 50 degrees and absolutely perfect for race day. Second of all, the course was seriously gorgeous. I've run through some really pretty places (i.e. Disney World, Galveston Beach, Trinity River) and I'd have to rank this race #1 as far as aesthetics go. Tyler has a lot of old, historical homes, which are in and of themselves beautiful to begin with. To add to the intrigue of those homes, all of them had beautiful flowers blooming in front of, around, behind, and in every direction you could see near them.
The course itself was actual pretty great too. There was running on old brick roads around the town square, through neighborhoods, and alongside some of the city's roads. There was a half-mile long hill (literally) at mile 4, which was so tough. Ironically, Thunderstruck came on my playlist at that time so I just laughed as I thought about how the pavement was being struck by my "thunder" thighs. Yeah, I have weird thoughts during races sometimes... To coincide with my weird accompaniment thoughts I also started thinking about hills and running and how it truly is similar to real-life. I apologize if my analogy is too cliche or if you've already thought through it before.
Basically, in life, we go up and down hills, with a few bursts of flat terrain, too. Of course the uphills are parallel to the tougher times in life, the challenges. I think God allows these uphills so we lean on him more, praising Him while we go up, have a hard time breathing, and feel pain. These ascents are where we are reminded so much of God's mercy. He could allow us to just go through the tough stuff on our own, which we deserve; but He doesn't. He pulls us up, all the way to the top of the hill, where we can finally see what we have been climbing toward. Uphills are a blessing, because we grow more and see more of God's power and sovereignty in these times.
Then there are downhills, glorious downhills. These are expressions of God's grace; the better times in life where we don't understand why it's happening, but God is blessing us beyond what we deserve. There can still be glitches if we don't watch our footing or get carried away going too fast, but descending down these hills are often such a relief after climbing up and being worn out. I like to say where there is an uphill, there's always a downhill....sometimes you just have to wait it out and run a really long uphill (like a half-mile long).
Of course there are flat parts of races too, the "day-in, day-out" parts of life. These are often where the race of life is made or broken. Sometimes, in races as in life, I'm guilty of just coasting through the flats, taking days for granted or not serving/loving/learning/praising/witnessing as I should, when this is the perfect time to adjust speeds and push it a little. Flats should be a time to work on different skills. In races, it might be speed, foot strike, cadence, or breathing. In life, it could be seeking out more ministry opportunities, visiting an old friend or loved one, checking something big off the to-do list, etc. Regardless of what it looks like, we should continue to offer praise and adoration to our creator for giving us these opportunities.
If you've never run, I hope the parallels above made some sense; I realize it seems a little scattered. In the end though, in both running and reality, I hope to follow in Paul's footsteps, where in 2 Timothy 4:7 he says, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." I can't wait for the crowns of righteousness awaiting me, but most of all I can't wait to see the One who guided, protected, loved, and was an object of my adoration and worship throughout all of the uphills and downhills throughout my time on earth.
PS Read 2 Timothy 4. The whole chapter- SO good.
PPS What's the most pretty race you've ever run?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG:@jenbeingjen
I have just been running, working, sleeping, and repeating. Holy smokes, there are a lot of injured people right now, and I'm trying to just help get them back to normal but it has been a little taxing being so busy, I'll admit. Half marathon training is also taking up a lot of time, but I'm still really enjoying my training plan by Nike! I have not done the same workout twice, so there's not really the whole "falling into the same old routine" thing going on, which is refreshing. Some of the longer runs are still tough but challenge builds character, right?
Speaking of running and "longer" distances, I got to head out to East Texas yesterday morning for the Tyler Azalea 10K. I've always heard that the eastern part of the Lonestar State is really pretty, so I decided to run a race there and find out for myself! WOW. Everyone was right, as it turns out. First of all, the weather was about 50 degrees and absolutely perfect for race day. Second of all, the course was seriously gorgeous. I've run through some really pretty places (i.e. Disney World, Galveston Beach, Trinity River) and I'd have to rank this race #1 as far as aesthetics go. Tyler has a lot of old, historical homes, which are in and of themselves beautiful to begin with. To add to the intrigue of those homes, all of them had beautiful flowers blooming in front of, around, behind, and in every direction you could see near them.
The course itself was actual pretty great too. There was running on old brick roads around the town square, through neighborhoods, and alongside some of the city's roads. There was a half-mile long hill (literally) at mile 4, which was so tough. Ironically, Thunderstruck came on my playlist at that time so I just laughed as I thought about how the pavement was being struck by my "thunder" thighs. Yeah, I have weird thoughts during races sometimes... To coincide with my weird accompaniment thoughts I also started thinking about hills and running and how it truly is similar to real-life. I apologize if my analogy is too cliche or if you've already thought through it before.
Basically, in life, we go up and down hills, with a few bursts of flat terrain, too. Of course the uphills are parallel to the tougher times in life, the challenges. I think God allows these uphills so we lean on him more, praising Him while we go up, have a hard time breathing, and feel pain. These ascents are where we are reminded so much of God's mercy. He could allow us to just go through the tough stuff on our own, which we deserve; but He doesn't. He pulls us up, all the way to the top of the hill, where we can finally see what we have been climbing toward. Uphills are a blessing, because we grow more and see more of God's power and sovereignty in these times.
Then there are downhills, glorious downhills. These are expressions of God's grace; the better times in life where we don't understand why it's happening, but God is blessing us beyond what we deserve. There can still be glitches if we don't watch our footing or get carried away going too fast, but descending down these hills are often such a relief after climbing up and being worn out. I like to say where there is an uphill, there's always a downhill....sometimes you just have to wait it out and run a really long uphill (like a half-mile long).
Of course there are flat parts of races too, the "day-in, day-out" parts of life. These are often where the race of life is made or broken. Sometimes, in races as in life, I'm guilty of just coasting through the flats, taking days for granted or not serving/loving/learning/praising/witnessing as I should, when this is the perfect time to adjust speeds and push it a little. Flats should be a time to work on different skills. In races, it might be speed, foot strike, cadence, or breathing. In life, it could be seeking out more ministry opportunities, visiting an old friend or loved one, checking something big off the to-do list, etc. Regardless of what it looks like, we should continue to offer praise and adoration to our creator for giving us these opportunities.
If you've never run, I hope the parallels above made some sense; I realize it seems a little scattered. In the end though, in both running and reality, I hope to follow in Paul's footsteps, where in 2 Timothy 4:7 he says, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." I can't wait for the crowns of righteousness awaiting me, but most of all I can't wait to see the One who guided, protected, loved, and was an object of my adoration and worship throughout all of the uphills and downhills throughout my time on earth.
PS Read 2 Timothy 4. The whole chapter- SO good.
PPS What's the most pretty race you've ever run?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG:
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Easter: I Get to Go HOME.
Happy Easter weekend, y'all! I got to make a trip back home to my parents' house for the weekend. Originally we were all going to meet in Lawrence and do Easter there, but due to some last minutes flips of the script we all ended up in Moscow, which I'm hoppy about (stupid pun intended). Jace and I of course had to get in a little lift at the old high school weight room, where we determined how much more athletic I am now compared to high school. For the umpteenth time, praise God I was tall. We also got to hang out with some family who lives close by, which made for an awesome, fun-filled Saturday! Now if KU could win and get to the final four, it'd be a near-perfect day....
This week as I was pondering topics to write about, I kind of had a writer's block. Then on the drive home last night in between listening to podcasts and teaching Ella how to whip/nae nae (she's a natural), it hit me: Easter.
Easter is a broad topic, but how could I not proclaim the gospel on the weekend we set aside to formally celebrate it as a holiday? My drive back to Kansas found me on the road until the wee hours of the morning, but my thoughts were vivid and clear. Just like I was driving to my earthly "home", Jesus was slain on the cross so that eventually I can really go HOME.
This weekend is the actual turning point in history, in the present, and in the future. God sent His son, one precious son, and He in turn endured the most painful death a human could go through. All the sins of the world, ever, were abolished because He submitted to His Father's will to bear your sins, my sins, the sins of the literal world population. Then he lay dead in a tomb before rising from the dead. You guys, He was resurrected on the third day, and because of that I get to spend eternity in the best home, heaven.
Coming back to Kansas and spending time with family and friends is such a blessing, and I do enjoy it immensely. The joy I get from it though, is not even one iota of comparison to the joy, awe, wonder, shock, love, etcetera I will experience when the few short years I'm on this earth are through. That's what gets me going, not trivial earthly pleasures, people, places, or things. Heaven can't come soon enough, but while I'm here I get to tell y'all about Easter and what it means to our lives.
Does everyone go to heaven at the end of their lives? Nope. That'd be cool, but in Romans we see "those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified." I can only hope and pray to be an instrument He uses to open hearts and eyes.
Easter is more than bunnies and eggs. It's the only thing that matters. You and I and our eternal destination fully depend upon what happened on a blood-stained, wooden cross, and we are alive in Him because He overcame the grave and was resurrected.
If that doesn't humble you and cause you to fall on your face I don't know what will. Think about that in between your next handful of jelly beans.
PS what's your favorite Easter candy?
PPS on a scale from 1-10 how elated are you that Jesus died for your poor soul?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
This week as I was pondering topics to write about, I kind of had a writer's block. Then on the drive home last night in between listening to podcasts and teaching Ella how to whip/nae nae (she's a natural), it hit me: Easter.
Easter is a broad topic, but how could I not proclaim the gospel on the weekend we set aside to formally celebrate it as a holiday? My drive back to Kansas found me on the road until the wee hours of the morning, but my thoughts were vivid and clear. Just like I was driving to my earthly "home", Jesus was slain on the cross so that eventually I can really go HOME.
This weekend is the actual turning point in history, in the present, and in the future. God sent His son, one precious son, and He in turn endured the most painful death a human could go through. All the sins of the world, ever, were abolished because He submitted to His Father's will to bear your sins, my sins, the sins of the literal world population. Then he lay dead in a tomb before rising from the dead. You guys, He was resurrected on the third day, and because of that I get to spend eternity in the best home, heaven.
Coming back to Kansas and spending time with family and friends is such a blessing, and I do enjoy it immensely. The joy I get from it though, is not even one iota of comparison to the joy, awe, wonder, shock, love, etcetera I will experience when the few short years I'm on this earth are through. That's what gets me going, not trivial earthly pleasures, people, places, or things. Heaven can't come soon enough, but while I'm here I get to tell y'all about Easter and what it means to our lives.
Does everyone go to heaven at the end of their lives? Nope. That'd be cool, but in Romans we see "those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified." I can only hope and pray to be an instrument He uses to open hearts and eyes.
Easter is more than bunnies and eggs. It's the only thing that matters. You and I and our eternal destination fully depend upon what happened on a blood-stained, wooden cross, and we are alive in Him because He overcame the grave and was resurrected.
If that doesn't humble you and cause you to fall on your face I don't know what will. Think about that in between your next handful of jelly beans.
PS what's your favorite Easter candy?
PPS on a scale from 1-10 how elated are you that Jesus died for your poor soul?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Friday, March 18, 2016
Spring Breakin'
Hi spring breakers (hi Mom, on the couch 10 feet from me)! The title of this post is a little misleading, because I actually have no idea what spring break is anymore. It is definitely one of the very few things I miss about school! My parents still get one each year though, so they decided to vacay in north Texas this week, which has been nice. Ella is getting spoiled rotten, and I'm pretty sure she is now the favorite girl in the family. It's fine, I wouldn't dare try to compete with that cuteness.
I finished the Whole30 on Tuesday, and aside from the baby shower cake incident, I was about as compliant as I could have been, I think! It went really well. My measurements and overall body composition didn't change much, but I felt so much better! I really hope to stick to that type of eating the majority of the time now, just because I do know it's better for me to not consume so much processed junk. And if I'm disciplined and just decide "I don't eat something," then it's really not that hard to say no to the extra little treats that can be so tempting. I also just ate pizza and breadsticks for dinner, but it's Friday night, it was convenient, and I hadn't had it in a long time. I'll just have to make it a priority to keep track of when I will and won't allow myself to indulge! I think round 2 of the Whole30 will take place in June, between the RnR San Diego half marathon and my brother's wedding, because you know, pictures last forever. Stay posted for that, and seriously consider joining me! It wasn't even that bad.
Speaking of San Diego, half marathon training is nearly two weeks underway and is going well! I have done 8-week plans and 12-week plans in the past; this cycle I went with a 14-week plan written by Nike running. I am loving it so far, and would recommend it to anyone training! So many plans are just not doable for average runners, or busy people who have real jobs and don't run for a living. This plan is totally different! I am able to do every workout either outside or on the treadmill at the gym. I also like that it's not the same 4 workouts every single week. The track/speed/hill workouts are different every week, and although they're pretty stinking tough, I look forward to the variety of the runs. Lastly, I've also been enjoying the fact that I'm able to still lift heavy twice a week on this plan. I usually do a short run, then hit arms, legs, or back fairly hard. I'm learning more and more how important strength is in running (and life in general).
Last weekend, I ran the Panther City 5K in Fort Worth. It's been pretty rainy here, so the run next to the river was b-e-a-utiful. The river is full and the banks are so lush and green, it's like running in a movie during springtime. The course for this race got changed because of some overfilled levees, but it was still quite pretty and serene. It was windy on race morning and there were a few little, tough hills, but I ran my fastest pace in awhile, which was so encouraging! Ella even got to make the trip to cheer for me! I can't wait till her attention span allows her to run with me for a few miles.
In other news, KU won the Big XII tournament and is one win in to winning the national championship (a girl can dream). The Final Four is in Houston this year sooooo that would be a cool blog post, am I right? They need 5 more wins!
For those of you on spring break, I hope you enjoy it! Don't take it for granted, because there are people named Jenica who don't get a spring break. Boo-hoo. I've got some exciting stuff coming up this weekend and next week, so be sure to be on the lookout for the next blog! As always, thanks for hanging in to the end if you've made it this far. Ya'll are rockstars.
PS Taking a poll: will KU win the national championship? I say yes, of course.
PPS What's your favorite lift?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
I finished the Whole30 on Tuesday, and aside from the baby shower cake incident, I was about as compliant as I could have been, I think! It went really well. My measurements and overall body composition didn't change much, but I felt so much better! I really hope to stick to that type of eating the majority of the time now, just because I do know it's better for me to not consume so much processed junk. And if I'm disciplined and just decide "I don't eat something," then it's really not that hard to say no to the extra little treats that can be so tempting. I also just ate pizza and breadsticks for dinner, but it's Friday night, it was convenient, and I hadn't had it in a long time. I'll just have to make it a priority to keep track of when I will and won't allow myself to indulge! I think round 2 of the Whole30 will take place in June, between the RnR San Diego half marathon and my brother's wedding, because you know, pictures last forever. Stay posted for that, and seriously consider joining me! It wasn't even that bad.
Speaking of San Diego, half marathon training is nearly two weeks underway and is going well! I have done 8-week plans and 12-week plans in the past; this cycle I went with a 14-week plan written by Nike running. I am loving it so far, and would recommend it to anyone training! So many plans are just not doable for average runners, or busy people who have real jobs and don't run for a living. This plan is totally different! I am able to do every workout either outside or on the treadmill at the gym. I also like that it's not the same 4 workouts every single week. The track/speed/hill workouts are different every week, and although they're pretty stinking tough, I look forward to the variety of the runs. Lastly, I've also been enjoying the fact that I'm able to still lift heavy twice a week on this plan. I usually do a short run, then hit arms, legs, or back fairly hard. I'm learning more and more how important strength is in running (and life in general).
Last weekend, I ran the Panther City 5K in Fort Worth. It's been pretty rainy here, so the run next to the river was b-e-a-utiful. The river is full and the banks are so lush and green, it's like running in a movie during springtime. The course for this race got changed because of some overfilled levees, but it was still quite pretty and serene. It was windy on race morning and there were a few little, tough hills, but I ran my fastest pace in awhile, which was so encouraging! Ella even got to make the trip to cheer for me! I can't wait till her attention span allows her to run with me for a few miles.
In other news, KU won the Big XII tournament and is one win in to winning the national championship (a girl can dream). The Final Four is in Houston this year sooooo that would be a cool blog post, am I right? They need 5 more wins!
For those of you on spring break, I hope you enjoy it! Don't take it for granted, because there are people named Jenica who don't get a spring break. Boo-hoo. I've got some exciting stuff coming up this weekend and next week, so be sure to be on the lookout for the next blog! As always, thanks for hanging in to the end if you've made it this far. Ya'll are rockstars.
PS Taking a poll: will KU win the national championship? I say yes, of course.
PPS What's your favorite lift?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
I Just Want Some Chocolate!
Happy hump day, readers (hi, MOM)! It's been SO rainy here this week. I am thankful it's not snow or ice, but man I miss the sunshine. Everyone down here always says, "just remember you said that when it's 100 degrees this summer", to which I respond "oh, I know; that's why I'm down here and I don't complain when it's hot". I live for sunshine and warm days.
As many of you remember, I started a Whole30 about 3 weeks ago, which means yes, FINALLY, I'm on the home stretch! YAY! I also have a confession: I'm kind of a Whole30 fraud. So the story goes, Saturday some ladies from work had a baby shower for a co-worker who's pregnant. Of course, there were all kinds of delicious snacks and treats to eat, which I avoided. I had some of the ham and lots of fruit off the fruit tray. Easy peasy. Then, the leftover cake was left at my house.
Disaster.
I had already planned to freeze a piece for next week when the Whole30 is over. So I was cutting the cake up into different pieces to freeze and take to others who hadn't made it to the shower. I got some icing on my finger and the rest was history. Ya'll don't even KNOW how much I love cake, much less homemade, delicious cake with perfectly buttery icing.
I may have had some of the cake. Or a significant amount. Whatever.
Did it derail the Whole30? Technically, yes. Did I just throw in the towel and completely quit? Heck no. I got back on track and I'm going to finish strong.
I have been struggling SO hard this week though, thanks to hormones (girls, you know what I'm talking about). I JUST WANT CHOCOLATE! I even have, like, 2 bags of "paleo" chocolate chips in the pantry, but I'm not gonna do it. No sir-ree. There is plenty of fruit in the fridge, and I've got some dried jackfruit in a pouch which is pretty sweet too. If you haven't had jackfruit before, you should seek it out and try some! It's similar to pineapple, I think.
Like I mentioned in my previous post, I feel way better and way more energized since I've begun eating this way. However, I can't wait to eat the frozen piece of leftover cake and have a donut or two. I'm trying to figure out moderation, something that's never come easy to my black & white, no gray area, self.
Thanks for reading my little vent session; I hope it provided a little laughter or entertainment! By next week's blog post, hopefully KU will have won the Big XII tournament and I'll be sharing about my 5K and time with my family! :)
PS What's your favorite healthy sweet treat?
PPS What's your favorite cake flavor?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
As many of you remember, I started a Whole30 about 3 weeks ago, which means yes, FINALLY, I'm on the home stretch! YAY! I also have a confession: I'm kind of a Whole30 fraud. So the story goes, Saturday some ladies from work had a baby shower for a co-worker who's pregnant. Of course, there were all kinds of delicious snacks and treats to eat, which I avoided. I had some of the ham and lots of fruit off the fruit tray. Easy peasy. Then, the leftover cake was left at my house.
Disaster.
I had already planned to freeze a piece for next week when the Whole30 is over. So I was cutting the cake up into different pieces to freeze and take to others who hadn't made it to the shower. I got some icing on my finger and the rest was history. Ya'll don't even KNOW how much I love cake, much less homemade, delicious cake with perfectly buttery icing.
I may have had some of the cake. Or a significant amount. Whatever.
Did it derail the Whole30? Technically, yes. Did I just throw in the towel and completely quit? Heck no. I got back on track and I'm going to finish strong.
I have been struggling SO hard this week though, thanks to hormones (girls, you know what I'm talking about). I JUST WANT CHOCOLATE! I even have, like, 2 bags of "paleo" chocolate chips in the pantry, but I'm not gonna do it. No sir-ree. There is plenty of fruit in the fridge, and I've got some dried jackfruit in a pouch which is pretty sweet too. If you haven't had jackfruit before, you should seek it out and try some! It's similar to pineapple, I think.
Like I mentioned in my previous post, I feel way better and way more energized since I've begun eating this way. However, I can't wait to eat the frozen piece of leftover cake and have a donut or two. I'm trying to figure out moderation, something that's never come easy to my black & white, no gray area, self.
Thanks for reading my little vent session; I hope it provided a little laughter or entertainment! By next week's blog post, hopefully KU will have won the Big XII tournament and I'll be sharing about my 5K and time with my family! :)
PS What's your favorite healthy sweet treat?
PPS What's your favorite cake flavor?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Thursday, March 3, 2016
Lent & Elections
Hello, March! Hi, Mom! How in the world is it already March? Here in Texas, it's still super warm but March has "come in like a lion", as the old adage goes. Sometimes I think God likes to remind me of home when I miss it, so He gives me 30 mph winds. I'm not that mad about it.
I don't have another race for a couple of weeks, and Ella is just growing, biting everything, and being adorable, so I wasn't sure what I wanted to write about this week. Then it dawned on me: it's the season of the 2 E's. Easter and elections. Stick with me here. You'll see how they're related soon enough.
I grew up in mostly non-denominational churches where Easter was a huge deal, as it is in most Christian churches. However, there was no Easter season; it was simply Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Occasionally I'd see friends or classmates walking around with soot on their foreheads on Ash Wednesday but didn't think twice about it. Then a couple of years ago I started to research Lent a little more. Through my research, I decided it is actually a pretty cool season to participate in and joined in.
Why do I celebrate Lent? Is it to get extra "points" or "level up" in Heaven? Is it to cancel out some of my sins and have God look at me in a better light? No, no, and no. None of it is about me, nor do I ever wish my salvation rested on my fallible human self. In celebrating Lent, one typically gives up something worldly or something that takes time away from Jesus. In addition, you typically add more Jesus to your life.
It's easy as a Christian (or at least for me) to fall into a rut, reading my bible, praying and going to church. These things are all extremely valuable in my daily walk, but any time I can get more of Jesus and less of the world and myself, I think it's pretty important to jump all over that opportunity. There is never enough Jesus in my life, and there is always too much Jenica. Jesus literally DIED on the cross; a painful, agonizing death that He in his human state felt every last bit of. And I think I'm too "busy" or forgetful to pray or memorize scripture? Yeesh. It's my hope that even after Easter is over, God will graciously keep me on the path toward Him.
So what does Easter have to do with the elections going on right now?
Lately, there have been posts all over social media about why one candidate should win and why the others are garbage. Blah, blah, blah. I also work with the public so there's a fair share of political conversation there too. The main issue I have with everyone debating over all of these candidates and their stances is this: Jesus gets no place in it. I hadn't really thought this way until recently, but it's so clear how selfish and just worldly we are in this country.
You see, we know from reading scripture that God's Will is purpose. We also know that He also has planned and thought out every moment of time from before Adam & Eve all the way through eternity. I get that there is confusion about elections and who runs the country by people who don't know God. But Christians getting bent out of shape? That baffles me. If you profess to know Christ and believe in His plan, I challenge You with this: chill out and let God run the world, because your imperfect human self is 100% incapable. Before you get angry about me being judgmental, please know I'm also speaking directly to my own brain here. I frequently get fired up about different issues (mostly sports, but occasionally politics) which just says to God, "look at how smart I am; why should I follow You?"
During this Easter season, I challenge you (and myself) to remember the power of Christ and His sacrifice. If He can die on a cross then raise again 3 days later, I'm pretty sure He's got this year's future president in His hands too, whether or not you or I like the outcome of the race. Keep this in mind: in the end, Jesus wins. And if you're saved by His grace, you win too. Heaven is going to be so much cooler than the U.S. And with that understatement of the year, I bid you adieu until next week.
PS Who are you voting for?
PPS If you have trouble believing or understanding this, why? And how can I explain?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
I don't have another race for a couple of weeks, and Ella is just growing, biting everything, and being adorable, so I wasn't sure what I wanted to write about this week. Then it dawned on me: it's the season of the 2 E's. Easter and elections. Stick with me here. You'll see how they're related soon enough.
I grew up in mostly non-denominational churches where Easter was a huge deal, as it is in most Christian churches. However, there was no Easter season; it was simply Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Occasionally I'd see friends or classmates walking around with soot on their foreheads on Ash Wednesday but didn't think twice about it. Then a couple of years ago I started to research Lent a little more. Through my research, I decided it is actually a pretty cool season to participate in and joined in.
Why do I celebrate Lent? Is it to get extra "points" or "level up" in Heaven? Is it to cancel out some of my sins and have God look at me in a better light? No, no, and no. None of it is about me, nor do I ever wish my salvation rested on my fallible human self. In celebrating Lent, one typically gives up something worldly or something that takes time away from Jesus. In addition, you typically add more Jesus to your life.
It's easy as a Christian (or at least for me) to fall into a rut, reading my bible, praying and going to church. These things are all extremely valuable in my daily walk, but any time I can get more of Jesus and less of the world and myself, I think it's pretty important to jump all over that opportunity. There is never enough Jesus in my life, and there is always too much Jenica. Jesus literally DIED on the cross; a painful, agonizing death that He in his human state felt every last bit of. And I think I'm too "busy" or forgetful to pray or memorize scripture? Yeesh. It's my hope that even after Easter is over, God will graciously keep me on the path toward Him.
So what does Easter have to do with the elections going on right now?
Lately, there have been posts all over social media about why one candidate should win and why the others are garbage. Blah, blah, blah. I also work with the public so there's a fair share of political conversation there too. The main issue I have with everyone debating over all of these candidates and their stances is this: Jesus gets no place in it. I hadn't really thought this way until recently, but it's so clear how selfish and just worldly we are in this country.
You see, we know from reading scripture that God's Will is purpose. We also know that He also has planned and thought out every moment of time from before Adam & Eve all the way through eternity. I get that there is confusion about elections and who runs the country by people who don't know God. But Christians getting bent out of shape? That baffles me. If you profess to know Christ and believe in His plan, I challenge You with this: chill out and let God run the world, because your imperfect human self is 100% incapable. Before you get angry about me being judgmental, please know I'm also speaking directly to my own brain here. I frequently get fired up about different issues (mostly sports, but occasionally politics) which just says to God, "look at how smart I am; why should I follow You?"
During this Easter season, I challenge you (and myself) to remember the power of Christ and His sacrifice. If He can die on a cross then raise again 3 days later, I'm pretty sure He's got this year's future president in His hands too, whether or not you or I like the outcome of the race. Keep this in mind: in the end, Jesus wins. And if you're saved by His grace, you win too. Heaven is going to be so much cooler than the U.S. And with that understatement of the year, I bid you adieu until next week.
PS Who are you voting for?
PPS If you have trouble believing or understanding this, why? And how can I explain?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Saturday, February 27, 2016
I Love the Cowtown
Happy Saturday (and hello, mom)! I can't get over the fact that we have not had any winter weather in Texas. It's been so mild, and there are still wasps flying around in my yard. WASPS. And they've been growing since summer, so they're enormous. I also had to mow the lawn this morning, because it never did the whole "winter dying" thing. I can't complain though; that means better running weather, and more outside playtime for Ella!
This morning I ran the Cowtown 10K in Fort Worth. It is one of the only races I will run repeatedly, and it's kind of become a little tradition in my life. I ran my first 10K EVER in 2014 at the Cowtown, so it's a bit sentimental (that's about as sentimental as I get). I was supposed to run it last year, but there was an ice storm so the 10K was cancelled. I still got my shirt though, of course! Last year was also supposed to be the first time I did a race with my friend, Celeste. We should have done 3 races together up to this point, but this year's Cowtown was our first! Technology is great, but it was so good to finally meet her in person!
The weather this morning was about 50 degrees, which is my ideal running temperature. There was a light breeze, and the sun was rising over downtown during the race, one of the prettiest sights to see.
Going into the 10K, my goal was to run the whole thing and not have to take any walk breaks. However, upon starting this morning, I was unsure if that would happen or not, because the longest "training run" I'd done to this point was about 4.2 miles, when I run/walked the 10K in Waco at the end of January.
At about mile 3, I was ready to take a little walk break, but I overcame the mental weakness and pushed through. I felt like I wanted to stop a couple more times, so I slowed my pace a little but decided to just suck it up and RUN. I achieved my goal of no walking, which was great for my mental and physical strength, especially since this week marks week 1 of half marathon training for San Diego.
Overall, it was a slow and steady race. I've always said I'm the tortoise, and that'll likely never change. :) I can't wait to do the Cowtown again in 2017; running in Ft. Worth has become one of my favorite hobbies. I'd recommend it to anyone living in or traveling through the metroplex!
Just a short Whole30 update: it's going really well. I've told a few people what I'm doing and they're incredulous, wondering if it's extremely hard. It honestly hasn't been hard at all yet. Today marks day 12 and it's been smooth sailing, thank goodness. I have wanted a few paleo chocolate chips, and I miss stevia in my coffee terribly, but as for actual food, it's not that bad. I do feel much better, and I hope to mostly continue this style of food consumption after the 30 days are over. Of course, I'll have to spring for Dunkin on occasion, but all the added sugar just isn't really worth it (somebody remind me I said that in a couple of months).
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to watch KU wrap up their 12th straight Big XII conference title! RCJH.
PS: Who is going to win the NCAA national championship in basketball?
PPS: What's your favorite race you've ever run?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
This morning I ran the Cowtown 10K in Fort Worth. It is one of the only races I will run repeatedly, and it's kind of become a little tradition in my life. I ran my first 10K EVER in 2014 at the Cowtown, so it's a bit sentimental (that's about as sentimental as I get). I was supposed to run it last year, but there was an ice storm so the 10K was cancelled. I still got my shirt though, of course! Last year was also supposed to be the first time I did a race with my friend, Celeste. We should have done 3 races together up to this point, but this year's Cowtown was our first! Technology is great, but it was so good to finally meet her in person!
The weather this morning was about 50 degrees, which is my ideal running temperature. There was a light breeze, and the sun was rising over downtown during the race, one of the prettiest sights to see.
Going into the 10K, my goal was to run the whole thing and not have to take any walk breaks. However, upon starting this morning, I was unsure if that would happen or not, because the longest "training run" I'd done to this point was about 4.2 miles, when I run/walked the 10K in Waco at the end of January.
At about mile 3, I was ready to take a little walk break, but I overcame the mental weakness and pushed through. I felt like I wanted to stop a couple more times, so I slowed my pace a little but decided to just suck it up and RUN. I achieved my goal of no walking, which was great for my mental and physical strength, especially since this week marks week 1 of half marathon training for San Diego.
 |
| Literally thousands of people participate in the race weekend |
Overall, it was a slow and steady race. I've always said I'm the tortoise, and that'll likely never change. :) I can't wait to do the Cowtown again in 2017; running in Ft. Worth has become one of my favorite hobbies. I'd recommend it to anyone living in or traveling through the metroplex!
 |
| Sweaty, Sleepy, Success. |
Now if you'll excuse me, I'm off to watch KU wrap up their 12th straight Big XII conference title! RCJH.
PS: Who is going to win the NCAA national championship in basketball?
PPS: What's your favorite race you've ever run?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Friday, February 19, 2016
Ella Meets World
Happy end of February (hey, mom)! As some of you have already seen or already know, Club Mockingbird welcomed a new addition last Saturday, Ella Jay. I'm officially a puppy mom.
Last Saturday after my 5K in McKinney, I went to McKinney trade days with a couple of friends, just to look around. I bought a set of sheets (a great purchase, because they're seriously the softest sheets ever) for like $22; and a cute cardigan for $10. As we kept walking, we started to pass by a bunch of people selling dogs. I'm really not much of an animal person, but I'd been thinking about getting a dog for awhile. Last year I had a dog for a day but because of sensitivities to her dander, I was unable to keep her.
I had been looking around online for different doodle mixes, because they're hypoallergenic. They are also SUPER expensive, so I held off. It just so happens that there was a woman there with a litter of 3 male and 2 female Spinoni doodles. We walked by and I looked at them a little but decided I'd need to think about it, because I'm a impulse buyer and am trying to work on that.
We kept walking around and I just couldn't stop thinking that one of those puppies might be a good fit for me. So we went back to the booth and I bargained with the lady and got her to come down in price a little, and went home with Ella!
I debated on the name for a little while, but finally decided on Ella Jay. My favorite Disney princess is Cinderella and in case you hadn't heard, my favorite team is the KU Jayhawks. Thus, Ella Jay was born.
This first week has been quite interesting. My family never had puppies or inside dogs while I was growing up, so potty training and figuring out what to do has been a little tricky at times. Thankfully she's pretty smart, so it hasn't been the worst thing ever. Plus, she's so stinking cute and awkward right now, it's hard to stay mad at her for too long for the little things.
I don't know what her full size will turn out to be, but I'm hopeful she'll get big enough to take running. I also can't wait to go on different, fun adventures with my new little partner in crime! :)
PS Do you have any house training tips or tricks for puppies?
PPS What are some tricks I should teach her?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
Last Saturday after my 5K in McKinney, I went to McKinney trade days with a couple of friends, just to look around. I bought a set of sheets (a great purchase, because they're seriously the softest sheets ever) for like $22; and a cute cardigan for $10. As we kept walking, we started to pass by a bunch of people selling dogs. I'm really not much of an animal person, but I'd been thinking about getting a dog for awhile. Last year I had a dog for a day but because of sensitivities to her dander, I was unable to keep her.
I had been looking around online for different doodle mixes, because they're hypoallergenic. They are also SUPER expensive, so I held off. It just so happens that there was a woman there with a litter of 3 male and 2 female Spinoni doodles. We walked by and I looked at them a little but decided I'd need to think about it, because I'm a impulse buyer and am trying to work on that.
We kept walking around and I just couldn't stop thinking that one of those puppies might be a good fit for me. So we went back to the booth and I bargained with the lady and got her to come down in price a little, and went home with Ella!
I debated on the name for a little while, but finally decided on Ella Jay. My favorite Disney princess is Cinderella and in case you hadn't heard, my favorite team is the KU Jayhawks. Thus, Ella Jay was born.
This first week has been quite interesting. My family never had puppies or inside dogs while I was growing up, so potty training and figuring out what to do has been a little tricky at times. Thankfully she's pretty smart, so it hasn't been the worst thing ever. Plus, she's so stinking cute and awkward right now, it's hard to stay mad at her for too long for the little things.
I don't know what her full size will turn out to be, but I'm hopeful she'll get big enough to take running. I also can't wait to go on different, fun adventures with my new little partner in crime! :)
 |
| This is how we feel about me not knowing what I'm doing |
PS Do you have any house training tips or tricks for puppies?
PPS What are some tricks I should teach her?
Twitter: @jen_being_jen
IG: @jenbeingjen
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