Beanhead!!

Printer problem- so CUTE

2008-06-03T09:47:00.004-04:00

Dear Geek Squad,

I recently purchased an 'HP' Printer, and when I am in the room watching it, it works perfectly.? However, nearly every time I leave it unattended, the papers come out wrinkled, sometimes even shredded, with blurred ink.? If I restart the print job and baby sit it, there are no problems. You can imagine that this has been very frustrating, and I wold appreciate one of your technicians coming out to fix whatever the problem is.

Thank you,

Dave Larson

Dave,

Thank you for contacting the Geek Squad. As you know, one of our top technicians was dispatched to investigate your printer problem. His initial findings mirrored your experience, so he set up a hidden camera to document what was causing the paper disruption. Please review the attached video, and thanks again for your business. And for the laughs we all had upon discovering the source of your problem.

Sincerely,

Mark Donaldson

Geek Squad

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDASjiCwq0Q

follow-up

2008-05-01T14:57:00.003-04:00

Hello then. Pty was amazing. My camera was stolen/broken/turned into lost and found on the 19th at a concert (We are Scientist. I bet they're awesome. I paid 0 attention once my bag was stolen half way thru 1st number. phone-found. camera-see above. drivers license- gone. cash- guess.)

ANYway, enough sob story. Good bits of that night are a new skirt and jacket since my outfit was ugly and I wanted to feel pretty and had 1 hr of day to shop. Other good bits, amazing subway sandwitch at, like, 2am. final good thing worth mentioning, falling asleep on ed at a casino trying to say up till 4 to watch some boxing match. i didn't even try, and cared not at all that i was sleeping in some public place. quality night!

All that to say, no pics of my own of ed's b-day party, but there are some on facebook... i could save and post here, but the only one who reads this blog has a facebook and is my friend, so that's a much easier option =)

HAHAHA but this is worth posting.. chech this video out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=byx8kt0O_mk
it's disturbing.

2008-04-24T06:44:00.004-04:00

ok, me being awesome (with luck)

Me and my boy (and our child? not sure about that one. regardless, sexy)

How hot is he? seriously! i'm a sucker for masculinity.

http://www.visualhollywood.com/movies/300/photos1.php - more pics...

And facebook for pics of our faces superimposed onto our characters. quality!

300 PARTY

2008-04-22T04:26:00.005-04:00

YAY This Friday is Ed's 300 themed party. His b-day is Wednesday so we're celebrating Spartan style, which means I get to be a Spartan Queen. Ok seriously, amazing. AM Nervous... have no idea how to make my costume. but that's my project for the day. photos to come..

lol for now, I always think it's quite hilarious seeing characters on stage looking so out of place. for example: (it's small. i couldn't figure out how to get it bigger.)

OR my character... she's just a little gorgeous...

2008-04-18T06:44:00.003-04:00

ALRIGHT

I tried posting before- didn't work. I gave up.

LAMB you are way too good at this. I have a million free seconds to post and all that does is make me more lazy.

I had a breakdown about 2.5 weeks ago. called me mama cryin because i was feeling a bit worthless. basically being a performance oriented person w/ no job drove me over the brink. and i didn't want to give up and go home, so i cried. lol. I was given a project to take pics of things starting with A - Z for an childrens alphabet book. good project. doable. then I was shipped off to York and took pics of heads posted on sticks around a bar. war in england was great. probably not conducive to a healthy childhood, though!

I feel Almost on top of the world now. NOt quite, but I did see an old friend, Alina, and it was such a tonic to share memories and laugh with an old friend.

Got an offer from ISV to guide in Australia this summer. Was hard to turn it down, and I hope they don't give up offering me stuff, as I'd do it again someday. Just not this summer. Great to feel wanted, though, ya know..

It's raining and very cold here. but it's a great excuse to stay in and, erm, blog? lol I actually do have project to complete, finally!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pictures: (why not?) i should probably send some of these to Leasa and Carlo, eh? ... I like that the group shots are one posed and one not. ok, i kinda posed. meh

HAHA funny article on the England earthquake

2008-03-19T16:33:00.002-04:00

Letter sent to a magazine:

It's not often I send these types of things out, but the earthquake the other week really made me think. With all the news on TV about hurricanes in America, typhoons in China, flooding in Europe and mus slides in South America, we shouldn't forget that the UK has its share of natural disasters too.

Attached is a photo illustrating the damage caused to my home by the earthquake. It really makes you cherish what you have and reminds us no to take things for granted.
- Cheney Wilson

kitty =)

2008-03-19T16:25:00.004-04:00

Ok, so we were just talking dogs, but how Cute is this kitty!! I was walking back from town today and a black kitty meowed at me and wanted a cuddle. So of course I did. was fun. ...

now JJ wants a dog, especially when out walking

2008-03-17T13:15:00.004-04:00

Lamb, I have no idea how your posts aren't scaring me off. Instead, I want one, too. Obviously not crazy enough to actually go out and GET one, but who's pointing fingers... lol

Dr Seuss' secret art. not so secret anymore.

2008-03-17T13:10:00.003-04:00

If you ever get a chance- check out The Secret Art of Dr Seuss. Amazing. truly. Even better- go to La Jolla (pronounced La Hoya) in San Diego and visit his art studio. He's not there. but the art rocks my little world.

my cryptic answer

2008-03-12T14:42:00.001-04:00

thick thick fudgy brownies (sometimes with caramel)
and
dark chocolate

For my Uncle Ernie

2008-03-12T14:28:00.004-04:00

OK OK Because Lamb's blog is so fantastic, I will finally bring mine back to life. I will do what I can.

First news is sad news. My Uncle Ernie passed away on Monday. I just found out and haven't come to terms with it. I'm not used to death.

Good memory of my uncle: Abby was getting married and her parents were moving out of Timber Creek basically the same day my Aunt and Uncle were moving in 2 doors down. Lamb and I are at Abby's parent's and decide to go for a walk around the neighborhood. We just get started and I say, OH look, it's my Uncle Ernie working in his garage. Lamb doesn't believe. I say no, really! they just moved in. She doesn't believe. She says You don't have an Uncle Ernie. I say look, i'll say hi to him. She gets scared. I yell out Hey Uncle Ernie. She freezes, pees her pants, turns to run, and chokes. He looks up, says Hey Jana! And comes walking over to visit, as friendly as can be. I don't know what scared her more- having to talk to a stranger or having to admit i was telling the truth.

My uncle was always really friendly, happy to see us and to visit when he had the chance. I was just beginning to learn more about him and his family- He spoke Polish, knew the Christmas wolf, appreciated good keilbasa, loved his wife and dogs and family, and was a great friend to my grandpa. He had gone into shoulder surgery Monday morning, and ended up having a heart attach Monday night. It was a surprise, and I (we all) will miss him.

OK, half a year later...

2008-02-12T09:41:00.001-05:00

For the sake of my Lambhead, I am once again going to run this blog. I will try realllly hard not to laze-out of it again!

BTW this is a picture of Ed's first snowman... What!? Poor bloak. hehe, this isn't his favorite picture, but I like it =)

Appreciation

2007-07-31T02:27:00.000-04:00

Hey there. No, this doesn't mean I'll be a blogging regular again. Let's face it, I don't communicate well while overseas =)

But I got this in an email from my grandpa, and am dripping tears in an internet cafe (actually in a red vw van that has been transformed into an internet cafe, but that's not the point)

.....

Gift.....

The other day a young person asked me how I felt about being old.

I was taken aback, for I do not think of myself as old.

Upon seeing my reaction, he was immediately embarrassed, but I explained that it was an interesting question, and I would ponder it, and let him know.

Growing Older, I decided, is a gift. I am now, probably for the first time in my life, the person I have always wanted to be.

Oh, not my body! I sometime despair over my body ... the wrinkles, the baggy eyes, and the cellulite.

And often I am taken aback by that old person that lives in my mirror, but I don't agonize over those things for long.

I would never trade my amazing friends, my wonderful life, my loving family for less gray hair or a flatter belly.

As I've aged, I've become more kind to myself, and les s critical of myself.

I've become my own friend.

I don't chide myself for eating that extra cookie, or for not making my bed, or for buying that silly cement gecko that I didn't need, butlooks so avante garde on my patio.

I am entitled to be messy, to be extravagant, to smell the flowers.

I have seen too many dear friends leave this world too soon, before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.

Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer until 4 a.m and then sleep until -- ?

I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 50's & 60's, and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love...

I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the bikini set.

They, too, will get old. (if they're lucky) I know I am sometimes forgetful.

But then again, some of life is just as well forgotten and I eventually remember the important things.

Sure, over the years my heart has been broken.

How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when a beloved pet gets hit by a car?

But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion.

A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect.
I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turn gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face.

So many have never laughed,and so many have died before their hair could turn silver.

I can say "no," and mean it.

I can say "yes." and mean it. ; As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myselfanymore.

I've even earned the right to be wrong. So, to answer your question, I like being older. It has set me free. I like the person I have become.

I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be.

And I shall eat dessert every single day... (if I want).

Today,

I wish you a day of ordinary miracles.

Love simply.

Love generously.

Care deeply

Speak kindly.

from around the world

2007-05-17T22:59:00.001-04:00

At this point, in my accommodations, I have met people from:

England
Ireland
Israel
Denmark
Australia
Germany (roomie in Bay of Is.)
Austria (roomie in Bay of Is.)
Belgium
Argintina
Korea
Minnasota
and
North Dakota

I Freakin' love hearing different accents, eh! and Chocolate is the Universal Language for sure =)

my Bay of Islands trip

2007-05-17T22:53:00.003-04:00

I visited this area of the world: northland New Zealand

I Lived Here: Saltwater Lodge, aka backpackers, aka Hostel. http://www.saltwaterlodge.co.nz/

SO FUN

And Sailed on She's a Lady, but there was no wind...

HAHA how I wish I could go to this!! Check out the trailers

2007-05-17T22:42:00.000-04:00

"Kirk Redgrave and Flint Weaver met only three weeks ago. But that hasn't stopped them from becoming the greatest pirates the Great Salt Lake has ever known."

free screening in LA may 16th

http://www.myspace.com/potgsl

2007-05-17T03:11:00.000-04:00

Kate and Jana, aka lovebug and pumpkin =) New Years 2007, Paramount Pictures, LA

why is this relevant? BECAUSE I'LL SEE KATE W/IN THE WEEK- she's a Kiwi thru and thru, and I'll be in her hometown of Wellington

(aka Wellywood- home of Peter Jackson, the furthest most capital in the world, spot of 10,000 earthquakes and architecture to match, and more- but I'll tell you more abt it later!)

2007-05-13T06:12:00.000-04:00

http://www.chalkydigits.co.nz/

OK seriously, check out this clothing brand! SO CUTE. It's all made in NZ with organic material- AND they use famous landmarks as their patterns. I'm in love.

the problem?

$300 for a jacket and $129 for a shirt is a bit much.. even with the exchange rate. Hopefully it's just the big touristy store in the tourist center of a tourist city that made it cost so much....

2007-05-13T05:56:00.000-04:00

My latest destination- Work starts on Thurs (I'll be helping out in the office) so I figure I need to go out while I can!!!

I ran into an ISV recruiter from Philly (yeah, Philidelphia) We had pizza and talked each other's ears off. It was great fun. Not an exciting story, but great fun! haha

the All Blacks HAKA (Maori war dance)

2007-05-11T04:00:00.000-04:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtlmkvbMRAQ

I'm In Auckland, New Zealand!!!

2007-05-11T03:43:00.000-04:00

I'm surrounded by water =) And fantastic accents!!!

A fellow ISV guide is from here, and we have a good week before work, so I've been sleeping in, eating seafood, and "tramping" along the northwest beaches while Scotty surfs the freezing waves. it's fun

That beach below is one we went to yesterday- If you look at the huge rock right, it looks like lion laying down. Thus, it is called "Lion Rock". Those Kiwis are tricky- hehe.

And I discovered (thanks Kate) that Soda/pop/etc is called fizzy drink

I have yet to go up in the sky tower...

2007-04-29T04:10:00.000-04:00

My Status: I made it, my bad didn't. We think it's in San Fran? Ah well- what's another few days in the clothes of 20 flying hours? At least planes are always cold- sweat wasn't a problem!

From a Forward- I thought they were pretty powerful

2007-04-29T04:03:00.000-04:00

If you get a chance, lift up a prayer for safety and peace! Of course for our troops, but for the whole broad spectrum, too!

I saw a sign here in Sydney Australia that had a map of Aus and big red letters saying "Protect Australia from Terrorists." It was interesting.

Right now I feel like the most powerful thing in my power is prayer- for the terrorists just as much as for us

2007-04-27T01:19:00.000-04:00

The Newest Addition To The Family!
*sniff*
I'm so proud.

w/out necessity

2007-04-26T20:59:00.000-04:00

Here you go: 2 random pictures for the sake of random pictures.

The final is me sayin' Hasta Luego'- I'm off to Aussie Land tomorrow. yay =)

how did i miss hearing about this??

2007-04-26T20:53:00.000-04:00

Sunglass-Clad Teen Girls Rob Bank of America Branch in Georgia

Feb. 28: This photo released by the Cobb

County (Ga) Police Dept., shows two female bank robbery suspects, described as between 16 to 24 years old.

ACWORTH, Ga. — Two females who police said might be as young as 16 were clad in sunglasses as they handed a bank teller a note demanding cash, smiled as they waited and walked out with an undisclosed amount of money Tuesday, police said.

"This is something totally new to us," Cobb County police spokesman officer Wayne Delk said of the robbery at a Bank of America branch inside a grocery store.

The girls approached the teller inside the Kroger store shortly after noon, and witnesses were unable to tell investigators whether they

left in a car.

Their only disguise was the sunglasses, and they were clearly pictured in surveillance camera shots.

"The pictures are too good. Someone's got to know them," Delk said.

------

Heather Johnston and Ashley Miller, both 19, were videotaped wearing sunglasses and laughing during the Tuesday robbery of a Bank of America in Acworth, a well-to-do suburb in neighboring Cobb County, about 30 miles north of Atlanta.

Police also arrested a bank teller, saying the heis

t appeared to be an inside job.

A police detective testified at a hearing Thursday that the two suspects went on a shopping spree after the heist and even gave money to the homeless. "The whole thing started out as a joke,"

2007-04-24T12:37:00.001-04:00

Create your own visitor map!

Alaska critters

2007-04-23T10:18:00.000-04:00

My sis is in Alaska right now and here are a few critters found in the tide pools- the tides there are 30 ft!!!!!

school in America

2007-04-23T10:15:00.000-04:00

This gave me goosebumps. I had to post it. I 'd love to sit with people and just talk about it someday

http://www.afr.net/newafr/wekickedgodout.asp

a prayer

2007-04-21T22:53:00.000-04:00

I met a wonderful woman on one of my recent flights. She is elderly, classy, and incredibly sharp. She was part of the Reagan administration, along with an impressive list of involvements and achievements. I am happy to have been added to her mailing list, and here's the latest. I simply needed to post it.

Father, right now we acknowledge You & we acknowledge Your presence &
Your sovereignty. Father we lift up Virginia Tech & the people
affected
by the evil that has taken place on the campus. We pray that Your
Spirit
> be with them. We pray that Your loving arms be wrapped around them &
> comfort them in this tragic time. We pray for families, neighbors, &
> friends. We pray for staff, professors, & administrators. God, we
pray
> for people. We pray for humanity. We pray that this event will not
cause
> people to turn from You but it will cause a nation to run to You like
> they have never run before. We pray for increased faith. We pray for
> spiritual growth. We pray for Christian fellowship & salvation of
souls.
> We pray that your hand will move mightily over Blacksburg, VA & over
> this nation. Touch souls right now & comfort broken hearts. Forgive
us
> for our sins Father. In Your Son Jesus Christ name we pray. Amen.

Purpose

2007-04-19T13:28:00.000-04:00

“On the third day of the fast, Esther put on her royal robes and entered the inner court of the palace,

just across from the king’s hall.

The king was sitting on his royal throne, facing the entrance.

When he saw Queen Esther standing there in the inner court,

he welcomed her and held out the gold scepter to her.

So Esther approached and touched the end of the scepter.

Then the king asked her, “What do you want, Queen Esther?

What is your request?

I will give it to you, even if it is half the kingdom!”

~ Esther 5:1-3 [New Living Translation] ~

Do you know your purpose?

Michigan Again

2007-04-19T13:22:00.000-04:00

That light blue area- that's home. I'm there 'till April 27th. Let's hang out =)

Michigan Again

2007-04-19T13:16:00.000-04:00

Two of the most important people that entered my life in Boulder CO have some amazing pics to share. Alina is living in Romania with her beau, teaching English and loving on orphans there. Jen was able to visit.

Below:
- Romanian countryside
- Jen and Alina
- a Dutch Festival - their version of mardi gras, so I've heard =)

for the website

2007-04-11T13:37:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I had to chose a photo to use in the ISV website. I sent these 3 and am letting my "jefa" decide for me... I think I like the caving one most but the emails already sent... we'll see what shows up =)

the website = www.isvonline.com

rolly-coasters

2007-04-10T01:19:00.000-04:00

Can I just talk about how fun a roller coaster park sounds right now? Seriously!

Now substitute Cedar Point in for roller coaster park and life is perfect =)

SUMMER PLANS- ISV NEW ZEALAND

2007-04-09T13:31:00.000-04:00

I haven't been this excited about a summer in a while! Thank you LORD for being so generous. Seriously, go check out the word mercy and think about how much it affects us. it's incredable!!! That may seem like a random statement but it isn't at all.

Yay!

In-and-Out

2007-02-23T17:48:00.000-05:00

Mmmmm best burgers ever
Natural
Fresh (can watch them cutting the veggies and slicing the pototoes for fries!)
Christian-owned
Only found in So. Cal (ok, and Vegas and Scotsdale AZ. but that's it!)

Yay In and out

http://www.in-n-out.com/

Whoa. video

2007-02-13T14:04:00.000-05:00

www.masterplanthemovie.com

Shared with me by my kiwi friend/graphic designer Kate

My Choice: BROWNIES

2007-02-13T13:44:00.000-05:00

Now don't cheat on this one, go with the first dessert you choose!

If all of the desserts listed below were sitting in front of you,
which would you choose (Sorry, you can only pick one!)
Pick your dessert,and then look to see what this says about you.


Here are your choices:
 1. Angel Food Cake
 2. Brownies
 3. Lemon Meringue
 4. Vanilla cake with Chocolate Icing
 5. Strawberry Short Cake
 6. Chocolate on Chocolate
 7. Ice Cream Cake
 8. Carrot Cake

No, you can't change your mind once you scroll down,
so think what your choice will be........

OK - Now that you've made your choice this is what
research says about you.

1. ANGEL FOOD CAKE -- Sweet, loving, cuddly. You love all
warm and fuzzy items. A little nutty at times. Sometimes you need
an ice cream cone at the end of the day. Others perceive you as
being childlike and immature at times.

2. BROWNIES -- You are adventurous, love new ideas,
and are a champion of underdogs and a slayer of dragons. 
When tempers flare up you whip out your saber. 
You are always the oddball with a unique sense of humor
and direction. You tend to be very loyal.

3. LEMON MERINGUE -- Smooth,  sexy, & amp; articulate
with your hands,  you are an excellent after-dinner speaker
and a good teacher. But don't try to walk and chew gum at the same time.
A bit of a diva at times, but you have many friends.
 
4. VANILLA CAKE WITH CHOCOLATE ICING -- Fun-loving, sassy,
humorous, not very grounded in life; very indecisive and lack motivation.
Everyone enjoys being around you, but you are a practical joker.
Others should be cautious in making you mad. 
However, you are a friend for life.

5. STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE -- Romantic, warm, loving.
You care about other people, can be counted on in a pinch
and expect the same in return. Intuitively keen. Can be very emotional.

6. CHOCOLATE ON CHOCOLATE -- Sexy; always ready to
give and receive. Very creative, adventurous, ambitious, and passionate.
You can appear to have a cold exterior! but are warm on the inside.
Not afraid to take chances. Will not settle for anything average in life.
Love to laugh.

7. ICE CREAM CAKE-- You like sports, whether it be baseball, football,
basketball, or soccer. If you could, you would like to participate,
but you enjoy watching sports.  You don't like to give up the remote control. 
You tend to be self-centered and high maintenance.

8. CARROT CAKE -- You are a very fun loving person, who likes to laugh.
You are fun to be with. People like to hang out with you. 
You are a very warm hearted person and a little quirky at times.
You have many loyal friends.

I actually really am Patriotic. and Christian. so here ya go... it was a forward from my aunty

2007-01-29T22:49:00.000-05:00

In case we find ourselves starting to believe all the anti-American sentiment and negativity, we should remember England's Prime Minister Tony Blair's words during a recent interview. When asked by one of his Parliament Members why he believes so much in America, he said:

"A simple way to take measure of a country is to look at how many want in ... and how many want out. Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you:

1. Jesus Christ

2. The American GI

One died for your soul, the other for your freedom."

You might want to pass this on, as many seem to forget both of them.

I want to transfer these photos to myspace, thought I may as well keep em here, too

2007-01-20T14:22:00.000-05:00

Aight y'all, these posts should be sufficient for a while at least.

2007-01-17T20:33:00.000-05:00

Jenny- hope u visit! Lamb- I know you do. Thanks for your faithfulness =) MI friends, I may have lost u for good... i know this.

all others, cuidate mucho!

First Outdoor Rope Climb!!!

2007-01-17T20:22:00.000-05:00

So, despite reassuring the 'rents that all I do is boulder, I plunged into climbing. Incredable. Yeah, you'd think So. Cal. would be nice and warm for it. No. We were at Malibu Creek St. Park, and climbing over ice puddles. Heard today that it was SNOWING in MALIBU! Does that Happen?? Anyways, happy climbing!!!

I

New Website!!!!

2007-01-17T20:19:00.000-05:00

Dominican Republic on my mind...

www.crossroads-online.org

super-brief snippet of the holidays...

2007-01-17T16:10:00.001-05:00

Not my usual style, but they seriously Rocked my night!

2007-01-16T12:15:00.000-05:00

My Weekend!

2007-01-04T20:28:00.000-05:00

Alright, so obviously I don't have much time to upkeep this anymore...I'll do it periodically so don't leave me for good. Right now, I have to update because I've had, well, a weekend and a half!

Friday: BBQ at a friend's new place. Fun people and good food. Left before it got wild

Saturday Day: Rock Climbing (actually, bouldering) in Malibu Creek State Park. beautiful- and had to traverse over water in certain places.

Saturday Night: The Laugh Factory Downtown! Saw Dane Cook live. Could say soooooooooo much on this one, but am going to let it be. He was alright, but the company I was with stole the show!
literally. haha.

Sunday- New Years Eve: pretty much the First New Years big occasion I've ever had. Went to downtown LA to the New York set of Hollywood (where Sinfeld and other NY scenes are filmed) and saw the KILLERS at MIDNIGHT. pretty much made my life. I was with awesome aussie friends, too. Happy New Year 2007!

All other days were chill,so I'm outta here.

MUCHO AMOR to you all. I feel the pressing need to go journal about all of the above now- hehe

So so impressive!

2006-12-28T14:53:00.000-05:00

Here is my too late for the day but very awesome Holiday Post.

http://media.putfile.com/wizardsofwinter-sm/e

I LOVE YOU ALL

My precious friend is in Romania with her beau- this email is Amazing

2006-12-19T16:18:00.000-05:00

12/19/2006

Dear family and friends, As December rolls in, so does the Christmas spirit. We remember you all during these special times and we send our greetings to you and yours with the warm wish of blessings from God. Looking back just a few days we come to thoughts of Thanksgiving as well.

It is no wonder that this is the favorite Holiday of so many people as we turn our focus from ourselves and ascribe value to the things that we are thankful for. This Holiday season we are thankful for our families and our friends, for the work that we have and for the fact that our needs are met. We are also thankful for the love that God has for us, and that as precious as he is, he offered his life for us so that even though we were opposed to him and far from him, we could come to him. We could find forgiveness from the only one who does not need forgiving.

It is good for us to ask forgiveness from someone who also needs forgiveness, but it has no power of reconciliation between us and God. By this I mean that a human relationship can be reconciled giving a feeling of freedom, but this does not change a person’s position before God and reconcile our relationship with Him.

Does one cellmate say to another, “I forgive you, man, you are free.” No. But it is the judge that must release the man. And a fair judge must still uphold the requirement that the penalty be paid. What greater purchase is there than the one requiring a man’s life?

It is with this life, this perfect life, we have been redeemed, the penalty having been paid, the judge having spoken. And to those who ask for his forgiveness he gives this freedom from guilt and from condemnation. Do we then have freedom from responsibility? No.

For now we have the greatest responsibility. We must live the life of integrity, putting on the outside what we have been given on the inside.

It is this wonderful season that brings all of these things to the surface once again, if perhaps they have slipped from our minds and our deeds.

Thanksgiving was a wonderful time here in Transylvania. Here in our town, in our small private school we were able to host 55 some locals and around 15 native English speakers for a wonderful and tasty traditional Thanksgiving meal. We were able to share these things that we are thankful for as Bryan Damron and I shared our stories to the group.

We are very encouraged by all of the things going on here at the school and are really glad to be a part of it all. It is really incredible to see how the school puts us into contact with so many people from so many different personal backgrounds and then gives us the opportunity to have real and meaningful relationships with them. God is drawing people to himself and we look forward to sharing more with you in the future about the lives that are being changed.

We also have recently gone to a Gypsy village for the first time to see a church service that they were holding there. It was a wonderful time and experience and we plan to go back soon. The community there is in desperate need of love and attention from people who care and understand.

We have a lot to learn but hope we can contribute more soon.

Thank you again! – Bryan and Alina

Prayer Requests
Please pray for:
• Rest during this Christmas break.
• Safety for Alina’s family as they travel here to visit us!
• Language ability as we learn Romanian
• Safety in general and in the spiritual battles that exist here.
• Our students, that they would be drawn closer to the Lord.

Financial Info:Please contact Bryan’s Mom, Lyn, if you did not get an envelope from Global Outreach (GO) to send in your support, or you have any other concerns.LynGullett@aol.com

funny- forgive the swear word!

2006-12-02T10:55:00.000-05:00

GO BUCKS

2006-11-20T12:35:00.000-05:00

http://ohiostatebuckeyes.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/osu-m-footbl-body.html

No. 1 Ohio State Clinches Outright Big Ten Title in 42-39 Victory over No. 2 Michigan

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio State Heisman Trophy candidate Troy Smith completed 29 of 41 passes for 316 yards and four touchdowns to lead the top-ranked Buckeyes to three straight victories over Michigan with a 42-39 win against the second-ranked Wolverines Saturday in front of a record crowd of 105,708 fans at Ohio Stadium.

The win clinched the first outright Big Ten title for the Buckeyes since 1984 and is its 31st conference title in school history. The victory extended the nation's longest win streak to 19 games. Ohio State now is 12-0 overall and finished 8-0 in the Big Ten.

TBDBITL

2006-11-20T12:07:00.000-05:00

Posted By:jenx

Get this video and more at MySpace.com

ok, only 'cause I like this picture

2006-11-15T19:43:00.000-05:00

I admit, I'm posting this because I found this pic on facebook (aka was tagged) and like it.

Dominican Limestone Caves- the beauty on the left is a girl from Alaska and she sent me chocolate chip cookies.

i love her!

star struck photos

2006-11-08T17:58:00.000-05:00

Not that you can really see him, but here is My photo of the romance novel dreamboat...

In addition, here is a lovely email from my mama- it cracked me up =)

"Rumor has it that you have a new boyfriend! Fabio! Ha! Is he handsome in person? Did you slip him your number? (just kidding!) How fun is that!!!" ...(email goes on and then ends with)... " I love you! Say Hi to Fabio for me! Love mom"

FABIO

2006-11-07T11:30:00.000-05:00

My Fabio Story

I'm pumped.

-Went into a restaurant on Sunset with my sis- her friend works there
-To Sonja she says "wanna sit next to Fabio?" I don't hear.
-Son says to me, "So you see that guy over there that looks like Fabio? It is Fabio"

-What?

- I sneak my camara out and take a 'secret' picture- HA- I look at the picture and he's looking directly at the camera.

-oops

-We manage to be normal, eat dinner, chill out till the restaurant starts clearing out.

-We get up to leave and they do too, and he walks by us to get to the door (I guess
people do that when they're leaving) and I look as he's walking by

KEY = He catches my eye and says "HI"

-So now I am telling people that Fabio is my boyfriend.

-that's my story. STILL can't believe it.

2006-10-26T12:50:00.000-04:00

Bummer: I posted last night and lost it.
anyways, here's a follow-up post

1) I love Melissa!!! She rocks my world because
a. she has faith in me 100percentsignhere
b. her nickname is "giggles"
c. she's in paris. how romantic is that?
d. she commented =) merci mon amie

2) I FOUND A HOME!!!!
Not by the beach, but by the mountians! It's crisp and cool and smells like pine, and it's close to a cute downtown area! I didn't even take a day to think about it, I just said yes right away. Why?
-Because I know the girl I'll be living with already (big downside to craigslist! and I know she's a Christian)
-Because it's furnished
-Because utilities are covered
-Because I live with a Pug =) yea, I'm a lil allergic... but she's the cutest thing ever!

3) My SISTER'S in town!!!!!!!!!!!!
- I drove hours (thanks drivers of LA) to see her.. and it was well worth it. and the sushi we ate was phoenomenal.

4) There's more, but I gotsta work.

ps. pic below is of coworkers and I (with a little photoshop help and web genius magic)

Life? what life?

2006-10-09T01:13:00.000-04:00

Alright, so my work has become my life. But it is okay, because I kinda like it =)

My first 2 weeks in the LA area (apparently the OC is not LA and heaven forbid I confuse that) has been a good whirlwind that really isn't slowing down anytime soon.

Blips:
- I live with 80 (more like 90) year olds. Nope, not being funny. Art and Bernice are well over 80 and goin' strong. Why do I live with them? long story that isn't exciting. I won't be here forever, but they left for Thailand today (did I mention they're going strong? they went Coup and all) so I'll be in the house at least until they come back.... in 2 weeks and in 1 piece, let's keep our fingers crossed.

- I've been to a hookah bar- no, didn't smoke any. but the stuff smelled really good. I'll let you know if I do cross this line...

- I saw the Hollywood sign today- on my way to the LA zoo. It was exciting enough without being the first time.

-I still haven't been to the beach! horrifying.

-I have started going to a Climbing Gym. So Fun. hard. but So Fun. hopefully I'll be ripped by Thanksgiving (kidding.)

- Got in contact with an awesome college buddy- I went to an Open House Art Gallery thing last night. Met 2 cool girls who will hopefully be my friends. Hung out with Raffy, which is always fun. and ate meatless bacon which tasted surprizingly like bacon.

-The church I'm checking out: www.rockharbor.com It's no Crossroads but I like it so far =)

This post and the pics should go a bit of a ways for a bit of a while. Until next time...

(and please pray for my faith and for my job. I want to do so well! but it's tough)

Eddie our web genius put these together. I'm so impressed!

2006-10-09T01:02:00.000-04:00

Ooooh, i wanna go!!

2006-10-03T15:37:00.000-04:00

Lead Singers of Switchfoot and Mae to Headline Benefit Concert

Switchfoot front-man, Jon Foreman, and lead vocalist of Mae, Dave Elkins, will each play acoustic sets from their popular musical hits at a benefit concert at Biola University on October 6 to raise funds and awareness for Invisible Children, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to changing lives of the underprivileged kids in Uganda by providing education, healthcare, employment and safety.

The concert will be held in Biola University’s Chase Gymnasium at 7:00. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at www.ticketforce.com.

For more information on Invisible Children, Inc., visit http://www.invisiblechildren.com/.

Cali, baby!

2006-09-29T19:40:00.000-04:00

I'M HERE. Yes, it is very warm and sunny. I haven't been out yet to really experience it =) But it makes lunch time really special!!

My Job: North American Program Coordinator

sounds kinda important and very vague. I know.

But I am basically in charge of the Faith Based division of ISV: organizing four trips to the dominican republic starting May 18 and every 2 weeks after that.

Two weeks at Crossroads doing hands on dirty work with the western hemisphere's poorest kids and people
www.dominicancrossroads.com

and Two weeks doing crazy adventure activities like Spelunking, White Water Rafting, Waterfall Rappelling, Horseback Riding, Surfing, etc etc.
www.isvonline.com click on Dominican Republic photo gallary.

Want to come???
yeah, i'm not kidding!! come with me.

2006-09-14T22:35:00.000-04:00

caving (splunking) and swimming in another cave, pueblo...

2006-09-14T15:39:00.000-04:00

more casa bonita, ferry, crazy snakeskin dude and club

2006-09-14T14:46:00.000-04:00

and more...el capital, island, rope swing..

2006-09-14T14:21:00.000-04:00

more (bonfire)

2006-09-14T14:10:00.000-04:00

more (kareoke)

2006-09-14T13:59:00.000-04:00

more 2 beetle and sunset

2006-09-14T13:40:00.000-04:00

more casa bonita and bus

2006-09-14T13:26:00.000-04:00

yay pictures, in no particular order, but of the adventure tour

2006-09-14T12:46:00.000-04:00

see for yourself... =)

2006-09-12T22:13:00.000-04:00

Music Video:LOVE GENERATION (by Bob Sinclair)

Music Video Code provided by VideoCodeZone.Com

From Jamaica to the world,
It's just love,
it's just love,
Yeah!

Why must the children play in the streets,
broken hearts and faded dreams,
peace and love to everyone that you meet,
don't you worry, it could be so sweet,
Just look to the rainbow, you will see
the sun will shine till eternity,
I've got so much love in my heart,
No-one can tear it apart,
Yeah,

Feel the love generation,
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah,
Feel the love generation,
C'mon c'mon c'mon c'mon yeah

Feel the love generation,
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah,
Feel the love generation,
ooh, yeah

Don't worry about a thing, gonna be alright (x3)
gonna be, gonna, gonna, gonna, gonna be alright

It's all love you know, it's all love, from I and I to everyone
got the love, we got the love yeah
there's no need to cry yeah
got the love, we got the love yeah
gotta live that love, you know what I'm talking about

C'mon, feel the love generation
yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Feel the love generation,
C'mon, c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, yeah (x2)

Feel the love generation, ooh yeah
It's all love, you know,
feel the love generation,
got the love, got the love, oh we got the love, yeah, yeah

What the below entries are all about...

2006-08-26T22:40:00.000-04:00

Me (jana) talking: This link, the excerpt below, and having it be a friend makes this a sober but powerfully inspirational series of posts. Since I go for ages now without posting, take your time getting thru them, but Really read them. Raf was a good friend of my sisters and her husband, and he was such a good man. I want his life and love to reach everyone I care about.

below is from the home page of his site www.rafaelgaspar.com

Rafael was struck suddenly at age 30 by an APS (Hughes Syndrome) attack which led to multiple surgeries, eventual organ failure, a year-long listing at UCLA for intestinal/liver/pancreas transplant, and sadly, despite valiant medical efforts, his death during transplant surgery on 8/24/04. The hope that transplant provided his body and spirit afforded him one more precious year with us.

Drive for Raf honors his incredible life, filled with adventures that took him to the far corners of the world while touching the depths of our hearts and souls. This joyful event commemorates Rafael's unique wisdom, contagious smile, encouraging words, bold actions, courage facing adversity and intense love of life. Considering organ donation and support of it will be a lasting tribute to him.

Our heartfelt thanks to each of you.

Doris and Luis Gaspar and family

Raf's "Rules for Living"

2006-08-26T22:38:00.000-04:00

1. Think Positive.
2. Set goals – long term and short term.
3. Set time lines.
4. Take steps toward those goals (no need to reinvent the wheel).
5. Start small, focus and finish.
6. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
7. Be a Positive Partner.
8. Be ready to stand alone and you won’t have to.
9. Be true to yourself and others.
10. A house built on lies is a house of sand.
11. Face your fears.
12. Strengthen your weaknesses, not your strengths.
13. Go with your gut always.
14. Never make excuses. Solve problems and move on.
15. Always be moving forward.
16. Surround yourself with successful people; walk away from the negative.
17. Get a library card.
18. Persistence, Patience and a Positive Attitude.
19. If the road’s closed, go anyway.
20. Learn from yesterday, plan for tomorrow, but live today.

Some of Rafael’s Favorite Quotes

2006-08-26T22:35:00.000-04:00

“Things do not change, we change.” Thoreau

“The man who does not read good books has no advantage over he who cannot read them.” Mark Twain

“I am part of all that I have met.” Alfred Lord Tennyson

“I would set a record that will not be broken until man finds water amongst the stars.” Tristan Jones (The Incredible Journey)

“Lost time is never found again.” Poor Richard

“The road to success is always under construction.” A.R.

“Nothing has any meaning except the meaning we give it.” A.R.

“Don’t try to change the world. Change yourself and the world will change around you.”

“Give gifts don’t trade them.”

“ Dance like no one is watching”

“ It is a rare soul that is successful in anything they choose.” Rafael

“A virtuous heretic shall be saved before a wicked Christian.” Ben Franklin

“An honest man’s pillow is his peace of mind.” J.M.

“Those who give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.” Ben Franklin

“If I were a Roman Catholic, perhaps I should on this occasion vow to build a chapel to some saint. But as I am not, if I were to vow at all, it should be to build a lighthouse.” Ben Franklin?

“One person with a belief is equal to a force of ninety-nine who have only interests.” John Stuart Mill

“Stop the bleeding.” Tim

“Remember that even the crappiest days on the road make the best memories.” Rafael

Rafael’s Journal Entries, Selections

2006-08-26T22:29:00.000-04:00

12/23/98 … You must do what makes you happy. My bride is out there somewhere. When I am ready to see her, with a little luck, she will appear. Till that day come, the road shall be my mistress, adventure my true love.

8/3/00 HavanaIt is funny how this whole day I tell people “I have no money” and the look hat follows. It is like Bill Gates telling you he doesn’t have enough change to take the subway.”

12/00 St. Johns, Virgin IslandsLooks like I’ll have to do another trip in July. Hopefully before then I will get a chance to explore some of the other islands. There are ferries to some and island hopper lanes to others. Each island has its own culture and character, so it should prove to be quite interesting. At different times thorough winter and spring each island has a week or month of Carnival. From the sound of things it gets a little out of control. Lots of music, dancing and plain fun. The beaches and caves are beautiful. Saw a 3’-4’ reef tip shark on my morning swim a couple of days ago. It was awesome… Despite my fear of wild donkeys, drunk drivers and lack of a surfboard I am having a good time.

7/27/01 on SaturnSo now I sit here under a beautiful night sky and a half moon, trying to figure out how to sum up the feelings of this trip. It is pointless, feelings change as fast as the wind. That is why we travel. I can say they told me “You’ll never find a boat for 5 grand.” ‘Make sure you get it surveyed.” I paid way too much for a piece of s… and somehow put a boat together. They said, “Whatever you do, don’t go out there and raise a sail. “Dave and I got out there and made it back. Sailing Fundamentals baby. When I asked about the trip down island, some said it couldn’t be done. They said we couldn’t do it. But then there were a couple with that wild look in their eyes. “Yaa, you’ll make it, just watch he weather” and “You’ll get wet, you’ll see.” I like those guys. We listened to those guys. After 41 days and 778 miles Blue and I pulled into Puerto Santos under the most beautiful sunset of the journey. Sipping on rum Ting sundowners, of course. Enough of this pen work, I need another glass of wine.”

2/13/04 Los Angeles…The other thing that got me today was putting on a hospital gown. It brought me to tears pulling the damn thing on. It’s wild what can trigger pent up feelings. The last time I welled up like that was back when they let me out for the firs time in San Diego. When I sat down next to that fountain and felt the water I lost it. I was on the verge of balling my eyes out. But now here I am back in a hospital bed in fairly good spirits.This is my life. Happy to have one. My feelings on the subject bounce around a bit. I am lucky to be alive, while being struck down in the prime of my life. I tend to not suffer from the “why me” syndrome but at the same time get pissed when I see druggies shitting away their bodies or listening to oversensitive spoiled brats complain about how unfair life is.In the end I see how lucky I am to have the family and friends I have been blessed with. The Big Man gave me thirty solid years to do whatever I wanted, it’s more than most people in the world can claim. I am a lucky man. Now let’s get me some new organs.

2006-08-10T01:51:00.000-04:00

Check this out

http://www.invisiblechildren.com/

Break away from Blockbuster Hits. it's worth it.

The Lowdown

2006-07-25T23:52:00.000-04:00

Clean and clear, here's what I'm up to. Some people VERY dear to me are finding this news out from my blog. Please know I apologize for that. I love you and and you know who you are and you can be angry at me, but not much and not for long... 'k?
I have been offered a full-time position with ISV setting up a new Faith-Based department. As of now, ISV is completely secular (which I love. such amazing and eccentric people come thru these groups. Like now, I've got a mix of Scottish, English, Canadian, and American. rock on) and I'm stepping in to join another as we create this new division. Not sure what all it entitles, but that detail will come later.
This important part is that it means I'm moving. yeah. to LA.
How do I feel?
- sad about the move. really, that feeling is number 1
-apprehensive. it's a lot of responsibility and i don't tend to like that "r" word much!
-honored at the offer
-peaceful. one ISV pamphlet on my chair in my random business class lead to this. I've done nothing, and the road goes on (the road goes ever on and on down from the door where it began now far ahead the road has gone and i must follow if i can pursuing it with eager feet until it joins some larger way where many paths and errands meet and whither than? i cannot say. -jrr tolkien.) I have learned what feeling to follow, and it (He) hasn't let me down. So I trust, and I say yes.

Having said this, anyone know someone in LA lookin for a roomie? let me know!

Crossroads.

2006-07-17T22:07:00.001-04:00

My time off is not time off, indeed. I am a project leader for the 2 week volunteer bit, which means my new home is: http://dominicancrossroads.com/crossroadspictures.html

Don't be fooled. My life is here: http://dominicancrossroads.com/villapictures.html
which is a slice of heaven for the Haitian families who have homes here in Ascension.

We have dreams. I'm not talking deep sleeping visions. I'm talking DREAMS. These people don't know the first thing about life outside of their hell. They have no tv, books, magazines, radio. No form of communication to give them a sense of the outside world. They Dream of Food. that's as far as they get.
"So I dream for them. I live to feed and serve the poor." Jana Amelingmeier
http://dominicancrossroads.com/childrenphotos.html

Me talking: There are people in this world that I run into, and I find myself face to face with a hero. But their hearts beat just like mine. their bodies move like mine moves. In this case, even the name is the same. I'm talking about the Jana from the quote above. Check out what the students do 2 weeks before they're with me, and what I'm up to now- thank you Lord!
www.dominicancrossroads.com

I apologize because every single sentence is an inside joke, but it's so fabulous that I had to post it!

2006-07-17T22:02:00.000-04:00

Once upon a time in hispaniola, centuries after columbus first came ashore, a group of gringos from cities near and far (and canada too, eh) united in a banana-like fashion to distribute leche, do the conga, and save the world one blue shutter at a time.

After unloading their "begs" they promptly began to drink, sweat, and puke brugal. Adorned with their golden mesh bracelets they brought blue bouncy balls and a map to the children's program. 20 tipico meals and 5 helpings of white-icing dessert (that's what she said) later, they asked themselves, "why are we walking when we could be dancing?" The answer was creepily clear: Suplise! The caller's upstairs!
Later on, as they were pullling leaves off the trees and placing them neatly into the pool they began to wonder, "Que hora es senor lobo?" Suddenly mother superior and her little cyster turned on the hose beckoning everyone to their metal cots. As they slept, visions of boy bands and sugar canes danced in their heads. 5 hours, 2 donkeys, 27 dogs, 1 panda, ruffies and roosters later they woke up like a virgin. Their work here was done and it was time to say bye, bye miss canadian pie to their "responsible" drunk leaders, to the little boys who "love you for you," and the crazy old lady who lived in a shoe...I mean garbage dump.

They arrived ready for their adventures with little pink dots gallore where they met Jana, known lovingly as Jyna, who would lead them into a bloody oblivion through el dudu, shortly after which they were subsequently scared shitless, literally. The next day they were treated to a delicious buffet and complimentary long-distance phone calls...Ha HA ha!!
It wasn't until a rendez-vous with pube-lo, awkward, that they discovered all they need is ay amor and un pato. Un que? Many cuidados reverberated through the canyons as the group plunged to their deaths many a time (oh my gato!) via thrilling, adrenaline-filled activities with guides whose helmets mysteriously sprouted baby's legs...awkward, that's what she said!
Sadly enough it was dominican time to sing one last round of Alabare and lean on me and say farewell or better yet hasta pronto to the memories, the friendships, and the tres monositos en la grande selva.

2006-07-13T11:30:00.000-04:00

I'm learning again the struggle of saying goodbye. After 3 groups, I'm getting tired of getting close and letting go. However, the big news is that we may be branching into a faith-based section. nothing sure yet.
More big news, I might be getting my bum out to Colorado again for a certain someone's wedding in September!!
Other than that, all the things that have been keeping me both busy and awake half the night aren't worth writing out, but they're still my excuse for a lame summer blog.
I'm off to Crossroad's tomorrow (the Dominican version!) It's remote, but full of lil kiddies running around desnudo and singing the Banana's Of The World Unite song. Lambhead, this is where the adoption temptation comes into play =)

that's my update. more to come. sorry there's not much humor in here- my sense of humor goes with my sleep.. what can ya do?

gringos learnin' to dance...

2006-07-02T22:25:00.000-04:00

An all-time FAVORITE

2006-07-02T22:21:00.000-04:00

Isaiah 55:8-10 (English Standard Version)

8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

an email worth contemplating! sorry for the language, but i'm leaving it as is

2006-06-30T21:59:00.000-04:00

Hola amigos, como estan?

I just read about 235 emails from most of you ladies and decided that I should get some communication happening just like you guys.

First off: No pictures yet, I have computer difficulties at home and find it really difficult to go to wal-mart and spend a bunch of cash. But, as I get some more money saved up I will get around to it.

Second: Damn!!! Where are all my girls??? I don't know what the hell happened. One day I was surrounded by all these georgous ladies from all over the continent and the next they are all gone. I miss all of you a great deal... when I let myself think about it. I have gone out to chill with a friend that is a couple of years younger than I (been friends since we were 11 and 8 years old) and he has these two highschool girls that follow him around. Keep in mind these are pretty much the first females I have been around that are relatively close to me in age. They blew me away. These girls were so clueless. It made me realize that I kind of took all of you for granted, but at least I know that there are some badass girls out there and all I have to do is look to find you.

Third: Whoa!!! This country is fuckin wierd. (Sorry about the F word, but sometimes it is the only word that seems to get the point across) I have been working at my Stepdad's bar. We throw so much food away. I could get seriously depressed if I thought about it every time I had to throw away half a chicken sandwich and 2/3 of a salad. I watch people blow 40$ on alcohol in one sitting and can't help but wonder "Is there anything better that these people are trying to do with the other 40$ they have in their wallet?"
So it has been hard for me to return to this land of vast luxury. I see everyone spending butt-loads of cash on things that do nothing for them and nothing for anyone else. (I am starting to sound bleak, but don't give up on me) I just wish that I had the ability to snap my fingers and show them that they could seriously improve their own life as well as the lives of others all over the world if they would only broaden their horizons and think beyond their own moment to moment self-gratification. If my friends took one night a week and saved the money they spend on beer and smokes they could probably do something comparable to what we did. How much would that change their lives? I feel like I will never be quite the same person as the slightly younger guy that left his home for a 32 days. I can only thanks God, or the world, or whatever got me there with all of you.

Four: Damn I feel good being back here. Despite all of the eerie things like escaldes with 20 inch rims and aisles upon aisles of useless crap, I feel like I am enjoying my life more than ever. I feel like I have seen, if even only briefly, that I am incredibly fortunate. I have so many resources at my fingertips it is almost dizzying. All I have to do now is decide what I want to do and where I want to go and KAZZAAM I can be there in a matter of months. I feel the doors have been blown wide open and my life is suddenly like an open book that I can write myself. I hope some of you are having the same feelings. I hope all of you have a new sense potential for your life. i know that every single one of us has nagging thoughts everyday about the waste in our Consumer society, and I image that most of you, like me, fall asleep and wake up thinking about the DR and the people we met there. I know that it isn't exactly easy for any of us to be back all of a sudden and have to re-evaluate our daily lives. But i hope that I am not the only who feels like the air is fresher everywhere I go since I took that little trip to do some volunteer work in the Dominican Republic. I hope all of you have bigger and better visions for the next few years of your lives.

OK, sappy-melodramatic time is over. I can only handle so much of it when I am the one writing it... I hope ya'all don't have to stop reading and run to the bathroom to barf after reading that mooshy stuff. None-the-less, I meant every word. And it feels really good to write to you. Talking with friends and family is good and all, but writing this I know that what I say will be understood becuase I am talking to people who have been through (and are going through what I am) the same experience.

So if you made it this far congratulations you have amazing email reading stamina. I love all of you and miss all of you and sincerely hope I get to see one of you soon. Maybe at crossroads in the future...

Peace, Jeffrey Scott Johnson

DeleteReplyForwardSpamMove...

Random picture

2006-06-26T21:47:00.000-04:00

Here's a photo.. students are starting to put their pics. online. YAY.
A few girlies and me (not the best shot ever) and some Japanese military men chillin in Santo Domingo. Did not know them, nor did we talk to them, but they came to the table for a photo, so we took one, too
Along with the random photo: random comment. I played a kissing game in the DR! lol, it was more innocent than it sounds. and it was at a bonfire on the beach! quality setting..

...

2006-06-24T23:59:00.000-04:00

I Suck.
I know this. A very poor job keeping up on the blog. Why can a person (namely me) write tons when I´m home doing nothing, and nothing when I´m away doing tons?
My partner Melissa would say, because life is one big joke.
i suppose.

anyways, sorry that I suck. I´m working on it.

Me Personally

2006-06-10T22:08:00.000-04:00

How am I? I am realizing that no matter how much I love home, it is soooo satisfying to witness such an experience impact such awesome students. Really. They are going home in 5 days, and they will never be the same. Never look at children, education, their houses, waste, running water, immigrants, and travel the same. just to mention a few things. 2 of 24 are staying longer to return to the Haitian villiage. One is coming back in August to live and work for a year. Others are planning their futures to make an impact like the one they witnessed the Crossroads family making. It's meaningful and real. It's tangable.

Digging Not so deep, I am looooving the massage trades I've made tonight- 3 so far. I"m trying Desperately to learn the Belly Roll for belly dancing. I stand in front of my mirror alone in my room!!! I fail miserably. quite upsetting- lol. I'm scared to begin the books I brought because I know I'll get sucked in (Barbara Kingsolver) I'm loving the convo's we've been having about religion but am not taking advantage of them. Chocolate here sucks. Milky Ways are expensive. I'm neglecting my email terribly.

I will be far from civilization for a good 3 days, so hang tight and be happy! This pic is of NOT me, but it's an adorable belly dancer. so lovely! yes, cartoon. but they are all so lovely!

Mountains, baby

2006-06-10T22:00:00.000-04:00

I can't undo the underlining, sorry! Anyways, whazzup now?

Being here (location ananymous)

Doing this:

And then more canyong/repelling and exiting the river one this rickity (sp?) bridge. It was super perfect for shaking until. well. until a students was scared. Not part of the job! Anyways, cool.

Fun Facts: This is one of the ONLY places in the entire Carib. that has Pine Trees. Yeah, right next to palm trees. soo pretty and it smells sooo good. It's because it's higher in elevation, and they are even able to grow apples and strawberries here. not the season. super bummer.
Another fun fact: only place in Carib. to have been glaciated.
the stuff we learn!

my past week

2006-06-07T22:10:00.001-04:00

Ok. i stink. I actually did type and retype a post 3 days ago, but it was long and i lost it twice and gave up. So here's a "nutshell" post!

Stuff worth writing: My group Rocks! In out hotel lobby before I even Met them they sang an acapella (sp?) version of Stand by Me. Like, full on with beat box and everything. amazing. Working together building stuff and singing with kiddies certainly helped =) i was emotional.

Canyoning is fabulous, and resulted in a lisp. What does that mean? Being that I can't be normal, I decided to Flip of a 30 ft cliff instead of nicely jumping. dumb. fun, but dumb. I am fine, nothing bad happened, but it was an impact "muy fuerte" and so there's a bit of a chip off my front tooth. don't worry, I still smile and it's not too noticable. i do have to relearn how to talk though. or move to Espana (Spain)... here's a pic of one of the waterfalls we repelled. we had to drop the last few feet =)

Let's see, we horseback rode to swim in this:

I am forgetting my stories, darn it! LOL, there are benefits to 22 girls and 2 guys in a group. For example, we went windsurfing and there were not nearly enough boards or instructors. but there were a bunch of chicas in bikinis. within minutes, we had kayakers and windsurfers all around to help us out. NO not sketchy, just extremely amusing! and pretty darn fun when the wind actually picked up.

I'm afraid that's all I got. if there's something y'all are curious about, tell me and i'll post it. I thought blogging would be easier here, but i was wrong...

Regardless, take care eh!

countdown begins

2006-06-01T12:32:00.000-04:00

I get my first student group Tomorrow. Finally =) !!!

enough, i know. but yet, here are more...

2006-06-01T12:26:00.000-04:00

Pics again. I hope you aren't tired of them yet! There's only so much to post at this time, and I figure photos are always better than nothing to look at! They both center on Big Bear lake- one looking at it and the other on it. That training seems SOOOOO FAR AWAY now that I've been here for 2 weeks.

Story of a cab ride. Lamb, it's another for you.

2006-05-30T14:33:00.000-04:00

STORY OF A CAB RIDE

Twenty years ago, I drove a cab for a
living. When I arrived at
2:30a.m., the building was dark except for a
single light in a ground floor window.

Under these circumstances, many drivers
would just honk once or twice,
wait a minute, then drive away. But, I had
seen too many impoverished people who depended on taxis as their only
means of transportation.Unless a situation smelled of danger, I
always went to the door.

This passenger might be someone who needs my
assistance, I reasoned to myself. So I walked to the door and knocked.
"Just a minute", answered a
frail, elderly voice. I could hear something
being dragged across t he floor

After a long pause, the door opened. A small
woman in her 80's stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a
pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940s movie.
By her side was a small nylon suitcase.

The apartment looked as if no one had lived
in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets.
There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the counters.
In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware.

"Would you carry my bag out to the car?" she
said. I took the suitcase to the cab, then returned to assist the woman.
She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb. She kept
thanking me for my kindness.
"It's nothing", I told her. "I just try to treat my passengers the way
I would want my mother treated". "Oh, you're
such a good boy", she said.

When we got in the cab, she gave me an
address, then asked, "Could you drive through downtown?"
"It's not the shortest way," I answered quickly.
"Oh, I don't mind," she said. "I'm in no hurry. I'm on my way to a hospice".

I looked in the rear-view mirror. Her eyes were glistening.
"I don't have any family left," she continued.
"The doctor says I don't have very long."

I quietly reached over and shut off the meter.

"What route would you like me to take?" I asked.
For the next two hours, we drove through the city.
She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator
operator. We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband
had lived when they were newlyweds.

She had me pull up in front of a
furniture warehouse that had once been a
ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl.

Sometimes she'd ask me to slow in front of a
particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness,
saying nothing.

As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said,
"I'm tired. Let's go now." We drove in silence to the address she had
given me. It was a low building, like a small convalescent home,
with a driveway that passed under a portico. Two orderlies came out
to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent,
watching her every move. They must have been expecting her.

I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door.
The woman was already seated in a wheelchair.
"How much do I owe you?" she asked, reaching
into her purse.

"Nothing," I said.
"You have to make a living," she answered.
"There are other passengers," I responded.
Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly.
"You gave an old woman a little moment of joy," she said. "Thank you."
I squeezed her hand, then walked into thedim morning light.

Behind me, a door shut. It was the sound of
the closing of a life. I didn't pick up any more passengers that shift.
I drove aimlessly lost in thought.For the rest of that day, I could hardly
talk.

What if that woman had gotten an angry driver,
or one who was impatient to end his shift?
What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away?
On a quick review, I don't think that I have done anything more important in my life.

We're conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments.
But great moments often catch us unaware-beautifully wrapped in what others may consider as mall one.

things God won't ask:
1...God won't ask what kind of car youdrove; He'll ask how many people you drove who didn't have transportation.
2...God won't ask the square footage of yourhouse, He'll ask how many people you welcomed into your home.
3...God won't ask about the clothes you hadin your closet, He'll ask how many you helped to clothe.
4...God won't ask what your highest salarywas, He'll ask if you compromised your character to obtain it.
5...God won't ask what your job title was, He'll ask if you performed your job to the best of your ability.
6...God won't ask how many friends you had,He'll ask how many people to whom you were a friend.
7...God won't ask in what neighborhood youlived, He'll ask how you treated your neighbors.
8...God won't ask about the color of yourskin, He'll ask about the content of your character.
9...God won't ask why it took you so long toseek Salvation, He'll lovingly take you to your mansion in heaven, and notto the gates of Hell.

KB

2006-05-29T15:32:00.000-04:00

I finally got to try it... and on this beach, too. AMAZING. ok, so I just had the first lesson and haven't even tried it with a board yet, but just being Dragged on my Belly was a blast!!! I'm hooked.

Melissa's taking pics. tomorrow at my 2nd lesson (if there's wind). and then maybe i'll actually put a few of me on here. lol, we'll see...

future plans? me?

2006-05-28T17:41:00.000-04:00

I'm going out on a limb here... I never talk about my future plans because I never really have any... lol. anyways, here goes:

I am loyal to my job right now, but it leaves me with heaps of free time.

I love being home, but there is no $ to be made there.

My thoughts?

Massage Therapy for HEALING PURPOSES. yeah, the holistic kind... not just a day spa- the neuro healing stuff. crazy but it's been on my mind for AGES.

not exactly in immediate relation to my religion major, but it certainly could head that direction. Oil and the laying on of Hands. I believe that.

Coworkers

2006-05-27T20:27:00.000-04:00

Sorry, none of me- but these are my crazy coworkers... it was an awesome fiesta in big bear. and it was the day i got a hole in my foot, which is healing well, by the way. good good people! the group at the end are not here in teh DR with me. it's just a good memory picture

while you're here:

2006-05-26T18:42:00.000-04:00

Check out this video. soo funny!!!!!!!

http://www.negatorium.org/archives/2005/12/the_chroniwhatcles_of_narnia.php

ooh, i like this game...

2006-05-26T18:38:00.000-04:00

Quoted (stolen word for word) from Sierra's Blog:

"Go to http://www.thesurrealist.co.uk/slogan.cgi and type in your name and get a silly little slogan for yourself! It's dumb but kinda fun at the same time. Here's mine:
'The Sweet You Can Eat Between Meals Without Ruining Your Sierra.'
Well I hope you all enjoy it! Let me know what your slogan was! : ) "

Sierra, I love yours!!!!
Mine is:
Easy, Breezy, Beautiful Jana.
I can't complain about that! lol

Y'all out there should try it! and somehow tell me what you get!!! fun.

cashew trees

2006-05-26T18:28:00.000-04:00

They look like peppers... who knew??

email style

2006-05-25T22:36:00.000-04:00

Hello,
This is another "email style" blog post, if you can't tell. I have no personal pictures, so here are some stories instead
-I drove in 3rd world Latin America. It's, like, everything you want to do in the states but are prohibited to do so, with massive holes in the road to dodge and 10+ mopeds ("motoconchos") swarming the car at the same time. Perhaps that didn't make sense, but it goes with the theme. DR has no driver training, just 1 quick test and a birthday. i admit, it was fun.

-the hole in my foot is healing, but YES I have photos. just gotta get 'em on here somehow..

-We just visited every town, activity, hotel, and restaurant of the tour. in 3 days. Throw in one motoconcho accident (not worth writing details, just refer to story 1 and move on!)
2 free rooms in an unfinished- no, reeeaaallllyyyy unfinished- hotel,
some fruit of a cashew tree- Yeah like the nut... didn't know they grew on trees.. maybe i'll post a pic. of that!,
a DR cell phone- yessss
a night of dancing till 4am... is that bad? didn't realize the time....
2 weeks with out laundry- since i left home actually. is that bad??
and slowwww spanish.

then, once you throw all that together, you have my life. OH and my sister is in Ecuador hanging out with my boss.

i'm going to bed
LOL

OK, an update below

2006-05-21T13:27:00.000-04:00

Hi. I updated. I'll update real good later. and maybe use good english when i do. and maybe share a pic. of the big hole in the bottom of my foot. I sliced my callous off on a rock while catching a frisbee in flip flops. It's pretty gnarly! So that's all for now.

cheerio

The Faces of ISV

2006-05-21T13:20:00.000-04:00

The people in charge of me (including Mario below). I'm really pretty blessed to work for them!
Nationalities: The strange country of southern Cali (the "OC" if you will), Tazmania Australia, the Dominican Republic, and the big cold space up north (Canada)

Jen, this isn't kissing up if they aren't going to see it, right? LOL

MYSPACE

2006-05-21T13:03:00.000-04:00

3 Myspace background choices. I went with the snow. What's my fascination with Llamas lately??? no idea. but how cute is that??? Son and Tim actually took that pic somewhere in south America.

and yes, a repeat of the kids in the rain. I'm SOrry. I'm low on choices here! and short on time. but hey, if fans are asking for an update, who am I to resist =) lol