Cyber-relating...to post or not to post.

At the moment I am feeling somewhat aloof. As though my experiences and thoughts are unique enough that I am the only one in the world who could somewhat relate with myself. I think that is why I am drawn to music and books and art and people. Sometimes there is a phrase, or a note, or a colour smear that moves my heart and reminds me of the existence of beauty and joy. Which then serves to prove that I am not alone. But rather I am a link, a movement, a part of this life thing. In simple terms, I think that it is easy to feel unique (which we are) but it is also important to remember that we are more alike than we realize, once we start talking and sharing our thoughts...

Here is the part where I share and force you to read about myself. This is called cyber relating.

10 things you probably never knew about Jennie:

1. I wanted to be a photojournalist for National Geographic for most of my life.

2. I never planned on moving to Manitoba. Ever. It just happened.

3. I played field hockey for one year. It did not end well. Something about my "high stick" tendency.

4. When I was in grade 9 I threw bouncy balls at cars from the top of a parkade. And I never got caught.

5. "Reading Rainbow" was my favourite show as a child.

6. In high school I learned that I could hide in the library and people thought I was smart...just because I read books. ha!

7. My hero is Ferris Bueller. He is just so cool.

8. Avocados are my favourite vegetable.

9. I experience middle child symptoms.

10. My nickname in elementary was "Bucky" because of my large, protruding front teeth. Thanks for the braces mom and dad.

Convoluted LIFE

There is something about life that is very odd. Chocolate does not fix existential problems. Sunshine does not drive away sadness. Social work classes do not automatically presume that one is aware of their purpose and meaning in life. And issues occur for which there are not 3 step solutions.

BUT.

Friends and food and tea are delightful encouragements for any malady.

I am uplifted.

This morning we made waffles.

I should be studying, but...

...they are just that good.

Wind

Blown by God toward Newness
by Walter Brueggemann

The news is that God's wind is blowing
It may be a breeze that
cools and comforts.
It may be a gust that
summons you to notice.
It may be a storm that blows you where you have
never been before.

Whatever the wind is in your life,
pay attention to it...
and the blessing of God,
Father, Son, and Spirit,
will abide with you always.


I am hoping that the wind in my life will blow away the sixty dollars of fines that I have accumulated at the library...

I have some time off before school starts on Monday and so I am enjoying listening to some nice music...

Check out Rue Royale
I think they are pretty awesome.


And Angus and Julia Stone
I think they are also pretty awesome.

Home Again

Christmas is over, and the new year is upon us! For some reason inexplicable joy is abounding in my stomach despite the necessary goodbyes which were uttered 15 minutes ago. I think I am excited to get back into the routine of school and work, despite my reservations about the rather unfortunate classes that are required this semester (blech, group counselling...no more video assignments, PLEASE!) I am also excited about being able to share the utility bills with 7 people rather than 4. YES, that is right...3 more roommates are arriving this weekend to live in our big green house. It is going to be a FULL house. But I still have the personal oasis of my bedroom. I love people. I think it will be good to have more people around.

For Christmas I received several gifts of particular enjoyment. I got an authentic Greek Fisherman's hat, which I wear with the pride of any good Greek boy (apparently they are all the rage for the male youth of Nelson. I plan to start a trend). I also got several sheets of beeswax with which I can make numerous candles. And I got a scarfette (See Etsy for definition) knitted by my sister. And a GREAT book about AIDS orphans in Africa.

I also was given a hand-me-down camera which has limited button functioning, but can still take a picture...so I can put some more pictures on my blog.

And so, despite my personal chagrin about NOT having a delayed flight (I wanted to stay home longer) I am happy to be back in Winnipeg, in dearest ugly house.

My new year's Resolutions:

1. Wear my glasses more
2. Pay the bills on time
3. Do more readings
4. Love