Dana Marie

New blog

2008-10-12T16:23:00.000-07:00

So, you voted, and I can't be lazy. I set up a new blog and even have already posted on it!!

http://danaessex.blogspot.com/

John Paul said he didn't need to be involved in the blogging, so I was selfish and just used my new name. Which is still so weird to see!! See you around the new blog!

-Mrs. Essex

one week later

2008-10-09T18:31:00.000-07:00

So, we've been married a week now. It's strange. Things are still the same, yet way different. Found out he snores and steals covers, he found out I like to sing in the shower, but don't realize that I do it.

I feel sorry for him because he's got a lot of on campus interviews, tests, and homework and getting married added a lot of things for him to do. He's been trying to figure out all sorts of insurance and financial information, and I've been feeling more pressure because I'm the only one making money, and now that we are married we are spending more money. Not to mention that changing your name on everything is crazy!!

So, a week later we are happy but really stressed. Hopefully things will die down in a month or so... wait then it's the holidays lol. What were we thinking? ( we were thinking why wait any longer 5.5 years was long enough) any thoughts or prayers you can send our way will be greatly treasured.

oh, and do I need to get a new blog because my name changed? vote in the poll!! I was toying around checking and it's exciting that Essex isn't a common last name, and neither is John-Paul lol. There's a lot of options to choose from!

-Mrs. Essex

Pictures!

2008-10-06T16:30:00.000-07:00

I'm a Mrs.!!!

2008-10-06T12:29:00.001-07:00

We are finally married!! I'll be getting the large file pictures from Jackie (the photographer) tonight, so I'll post some then.

There's always so much to do when you get back from vacation, and I have to do all the name changing stuff on top of that!!

Everyone at work told me I looked really tired today. I thought that was a little mean of them, I mean, I just got married! lol!

Kansas City was great, and I'm looking forward to going back in a few years for our anniversary!

more details/ pictures to come!

-Mrs. Essex

Bachelorette party!!

2008-09-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

so my friends came from all over to help me celebrate the fact I'm getting married in just a few days. it was fun and embarassing! My friend Amy brought the veil her mom wore when she got married 30 years ago!

I made a fun cake, and we went out to a piano bar and I had to be sang to. The man was crude, but it was fun!!

Just a few more days!!

we are liscened to wed!!

2008-09-25T14:01:00.001-07:00

We went down to the courthouse today, and got the license!!!! Just a few more days!

ahhh!!

2008-09-23T12:41:00.000-07:00

So much is going on I haven't really had time to write. Even with not doing anything really big for a wedding, it still takes a lot of time to get married!!

The reception is turning out to be kindof a big deal, but luckily a lot of people are helping with it.

I think if I can survive the next 8 days, I'll be fine!

Employee of the Month

2008-09-12T03:41:00.000-07:00

so, I found out yesterday that I am the Employee of the month at our Staples stores! I'm really excited! this is only the beginning of the 4th month that I've been there! God's truly blessing the works of my hands.

Engagement pics!!

2008-09-08T12:50:00.000-07:00

Here's the first batch. Our wonderful photographer and friend, Jackie Teauge, has another photo shoot planned for this weekend. Exciting times!!

Wedding Registry

2008-09-06T07:19:00.000-07:00

So, Thursday after I got off work John-Paul and I went down to Bed Bath and Beyond to register. Everyone says if you can get through that you will be fine right? well I guess we survived. It was annoying, but hey, when is shopping with men not? lol

Our registry # is 5677642, but if you search you need to put in John-Paul Essex, or search for me but Cox as my first name and Dana as my last name. Weird I know, but that's how it is. lol

The lady talked us into registering for some china stuff. We were talking last night we are thinking about taking it off. Really, how often are we going to use it and how much of a hassle will it be to store and move it. It's not like we will do a family thanksgiving for several years, and then we'd probably use paper plates.

No pressure to get us anything. Ganny was trying to look, so I was helping her find it.

There's not a whole terrible lot on there because I've been living on my own for several years and I've gotten stuff I wanted, well little stuff that is. That made it really hard to register. I would look at little stuff and John-Paul would say we don't need a lot of stuff just sitting around. I thought I liked that he was a minimalist lol! Sometimes it's not fun, especially because I have too much stuff already!!

Much love!
-Dana

And the date is....

2008-09-01T18:36:00.001-07:00

October 2nd!!! I felt bad hiding it from everyone, so there it is. The rule is if you live in Tulsa you can come, if not, we're having a reception in Chickasha (date TBD). Not being mean, I just want it super small. Getting married is between John-Paul, God and myself. We don't need 100 people there for that.

I'm glad the date turned out cute. John-Paul and I started dating on 1-2-03, so all he has to do is remember to add a 0 behind the 1 and add a few years lol! 10-2-08. Mom also pointed out that 10-2=8. He's go no reason to not remember the date! lol Also, a friend of ours from high school that I went to church with is getting married on the 4th. They can help remind each other lol!!

I'm super glad I'm no planning anything big. This long weekend, John-Paul went home and I did planning, and I'm already wedding-ed out. Just 30 days to go!!!

There's still a lot to do. We are going to counseling, taking engament pics, registering, planning a reception, and we still have to go home to buy wedding rings. I'm soooooo excited!!

Much love!!

changes....

2008-08-30T20:24:00.001-07:00

So, I was curious how my wordle thing would have changed over the last few weeks, and it has. Again, it's totally cool. I'm excited about getting married, and it shows!

http://wordle.net/gallery/wrdl/153102/word-thingy_2

I don't remember how I got the picture to show up in here the first time, but it says going married really big lol

plans!!

2008-08-28T12:17:00.000-07:00

Not that all I'm thinking about lately is getting married, but it's close lol. Since you asked a few questions, I'm taking it that you want to hear all about it!

We are getting married in a city park not far from my (soon our) house. It's wooded, with azaleas all underneath. Not that they will be blooming, but it's a nice shrub. One of my friends from OSU works in the park, and it's her job to find a perfect place. She's also making me a bouquet since everyone says I have to have one. Friends are a great blessing!

I got my dress in the mail yesterday, it's pretty long, so I'm going to have it altered a little. I'd tell you about it, but I don't want to risk giving it away to John-Paul. I want him to be surprised that day.

We are getting married in Tulsa because if you go somewhere to get married you have to get there in time to get the license and all that mess. I thought it would take a little pressure off by getting married here, and that way we have witness that we at least know lol! Jackie (a friend of ours from high school, who goes to TU) is going to take pictures for us. Hopefully next week we will be able to take some official engagement pictures.

We are going home this weekend for lots of reasons. I wanna check on Ganny. She's under the weather. John-Paul's dad got a new car yesterday, so he HAS to check it out. Not to mention the fun stuff like picking out wedding bands, and maybe registering at stores at home.

ahhhhh!! I'm so excited!!!!

Set a date!!

2008-08-27T15:48:00.000-07:00

So, we set a date! I'm excited, but not telling anyone. So don't feel left out!

The dress came in the mail today. It's pretty, not quite what I expected but great any way. My friend Jackie who's taking the pictures thought it looked fab! I'm really excited! Not that much longer and I can't wait!

So excited

2008-08-25T14:07:00.000-07:00

So, John-Paul is back in Tulsa. I've seen him every day for the past 4 days, and it's wonderful. I'm soooooo excited to get married. This evening we are having dinner with the pastor and his wife to get to know each other and set out a plan for counseling. eeekk!! (that's an excited noise)

Other news, our friend Jackie is back in Tulsa. She studied in London last semester, and I really missed her. So, we have a great friend here in town again. She's going to be doing our photos for us. Hopefully this weekend we are going to get some official engagement pictures taken. Gotta have something to put in the ol' express star lol!

Life is really coming together and taking off all at the same time. For once in my life I feel like the future is really exciting instead of fearing the unknown. God's got a plan, and I'm seeking it, knowing that it's going to be awesome! Even if it's not awesome, I won't be alone in it!

John-Paul's Birthday

2008-08-22T09:30:00.000-07:00

So, I worked longer yesterday to get things done so I got off early today.

I found out that John-Paul's plane was delayed so, I get to pick him up at the airport. He's been on vacation with his family the last week, so they will ride home without him. I'm sooooo excited!! I'm going to be able to celebrate his birthday with his family. I originally wasn't going to go home since I went home last weekend, but I just don't want to wait until tomorrow to see him!

It was so great to see him for the few hours we were together last weekend, I don't want to miss another minute with him.

So, the pastor said it will take 6 weeks to do pre-marital counseling so we have to wait 6 more weeks to get married. ahhh!! I'm so excited! That means by no later than the end of October I'll be Mrs. Essex!! Might have to change blogs lol!!!

Wordle!

2008-08-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

A wonderful person had this on her blog, so I stole it.
I'm sooooo excited that God, Love and John-Paul were
all big and right in the same little area!

Click the image to see it larger. If you want to
make your own, the link is http://wordle.net/

Lately

2008-08-10T16:54:00.000-07:00

So, lately there has been a lot going on in my head, heart and soul, but I didn't report on it because it wasn't really accompanied by any big activities.

I've been going to work coming home, and occasionally spending time with a friend. I've been spending a lot of time on the phone with John-Paul, eagerly awaiting his return to Oklahoma (he'll be in Chickasha in 6 days!!!)

In the last few weeks, I've been reminded of how blessed I am to be loved by so many people. As I was awaiting John-Paul's arrival home, I was pondering where he was going to fit into this new life I've gotten. Between my church friends from both the Seventh day adventist church and the Nazarene church, and my friends from college who live in town, not to mention the friends who wander through to visit me. Where will I find time for him? I'm blessed to be loved by so many people who don't have to! I'm thinking that means we just need to get married, so he will be at the house all the time lol!

In the past few days, John-Paul and I have made big headway on some problems that we have been dealing with for awhile. God's grace is abundant, and His love for us is where our love for each other comes from. Sometimes we just forget the latter part. When we begin to live our life without the focus being on God, it's not the best place to be!

I'm finding a lot of joy in my job. At first it was hard to. I didn't get what I would call the best quality training. But, I've made the best of it, and can do it on my own for the most part. It's so exciting to enjoy work. I don't dread going. It's an adventure and a challenge. It's great! What I may be giving up financially, God is more than making up for with His presence in all things. Living in faith, while it's hard, is so rewarding! God isn't just a shadowy personage that I talk about. He's someone that I know.

The past few months have been hard/lonely/stretching among other things, but through that God led me to a RELATIONSHIP with Him. It's such a wonderful place to find myself. I pray that God can be blessing you with the peace, love, assurance and joy that I've found!!!

Breaking Dawn

2008-08-03T22:09:00.000-07:00

I went ahead and reposted this picture. The others were almost too small to get the awesomeness that are our shirts lol! Mine is covered in glitter. I used a whole can of spray paint glitter. Ellen's says Team Jacob, but she almost ripped it up, it was awesome. We won the t-shirt contest. There wasn't a lot of people. We both had our books in 15 minutes after midnight. I was in the second group in line and she was in the 3rd group. I can't imagine that it took that long for everyone to get through the line.

I officially finished the book at 4:30 this afternoon, it was so good I couldn't put it down, but now I'm sad it's over.

Happy reading to you if you haven't finished!!! Go Team Edward!!

Breaking Dawn party

2008-08-02T13:38:00.000-07:00

Memories

2008-07-31T13:46:00.001-07:00

This is fun!!

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses.

Memory Lane

2008-07-27T18:56:00.000-07:00

So, when I was at home this weekend, I ran across this picture of me. It's my senior picture from high school. It made me laugh, and think what was I thinking, but a little bit I miss that crazy kooky side of me. I don't know exactly where she went, but deep down I know she's still in there.

May you all have a giggle at my expense, I know it's making me smile as I type this.

Pic for Ganny

2008-07-15T18:49:00.000-07:00

Ganny asked for a closeup of the ring. it was really hard to get one in focus, that the flash didn't drown out, and even was close to capturing the beauty that is my ring. Ok, it's a little fuzzy, but this is like the 20th picture. It's so much better in real life!

The Whole story

2008-07-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

Sorry it took a few days to get this posted. I found out just before I left that a full time job at Staples opened up, and I've started training for it this week. Praise the Lord I'm scheduled for over 40 hours this week. He's really providing!

Any way, the story. I went to visit John-Paul in Denver where he is interning for the summer. We went up to Winter Park for a hike. He had went up a few weeks earlier to scope out a good place to go hiking. (I didn't know what he was planning) So, we got sandwhiches and headed to the base of a trail. After about an hour hiking, we came to a clearing with a little waterfall below it, and an awesome view of the other side of the creek.

He was really meticulous with his instructions on how to fold out the picnic blanket. He wanted it to be double thick but for me to just flip it open. I figured a careful unfold was better, and I revealed duct tape lettering. I turned around and instead of digging out the sandwhiches, he had dug out a ring box!

I gave him a big kiss and said yes, and he put the sparkely ring on my finger. it's soooo pretty! So, we had a picnic and headed down the mt.

The rest of the trip was pretty fun, but not really eventful. The next day we called our parents, because we were spending the 4th with some of his family. We thought our parents should hear the news from us, not his uncles.

The fireworks were amazing! We were sitting on a mountain side, and they were exploding about eyelevel a mile or so away, but the town was in a ravine, so we heard echos several times as the noise traveled through the canyon. It was amazing!!!

The next day we had lunch with the lady I lived with when I was in Denver. It was nice to tell someone else. Then went shopping and to an arts festival. it was fun, but we were both tired. The altitude really kicked my bum.

The last day we did lunch at the Botanic Garden where I worked, then had to head to the airport. It was sad, but we hung out in the terminal for as long as I could before going through security. It was so sad to leave. But, now that I'm back I'm so busy I can't miss him. I'm working a lot, and I've got a huge to do list.

We haven't set a date, but we have planned to elope. After seeing other weddings, I don't wanna deal with all the stress related with planning one. We are hoping to be able to just go away, and come home and let everyone know we got married. We will throw a big party after that lol!

We got engaged

2008-07-07T07:04:00.001-07:00

Just posting pics for now, I will post the story soon. I have to got to work today, so it will be after that. I was just so excited I wanted to share at least a little!

Birthday Fun!

2008-06-28T17:13:00.001-07:00

So, I had a pretty lame birthday. I worked all morning, and then after work I was able to talk to lovely family members and friends. It was nice catching up with people from all over. About 6, a van pulled up to my house and delivered flowers from John-Paul. They are amazing!

After that I went to dinner at Kilkenny's (my Favorite resturant, a little Irish pub) with Dena from Chickasha. We both work at staples, and she took pity on me since I was going to be all alone on my birthday. After dinner we spent a little time together, and then my friend Ellen came and got me for late nite ice cream at Braums. Ice cream at almost 11 pm is not a good idea. O well!!

I had to work again this morning and it was so hard to get up. I told my co-workers I had a ice cream hang over from my birthday lol! Ellen came over after work and took me out for cupcakes (see pictures) It was so much fun. It was sad not having a cake on my birthday, but I didn't really need to eat a whole cake, so the cupcake was great!

A wonderful visit

2008-06-26T12:27:00.000-07:00

My lovely friend Jessie came to visit me for an early birthday. It was great. We sat around eating junk food, watching movies, and knitting/ crocheting. I'm so blessed to be surrounded by love. God's really making me realize how loved I am. It's amazing!!

Family

2008-06-20T21:16:00.001-07:00

Bubba and his family came through Tulsa on their way to their family vacation. Matt, Kinsley and Tanner (the one in the yellow shirt) stayed with me. Kim and the other 2 boys stayed with her cousin. We visited Safari Sanctuary. It's pretty much someone's farm where they built cages in and they rescue lions, tigers, bears, snakes, and normal farm animals.

It was nice to get to know the boys a little better. I haven't really ever spent much time with them. It was even nicer to talk to Matt. We haven't really had a sit down conversation in years. It was nice to start to get to know him after years of little communication.

(Side note: I'm on Team Edward.)

deep breath

2008-06-16T13:28:00.000-07:00

So, lately I've had a few things to do. I gave in and have been reading the Twilight series. Arin was right, they are great. I read all 3 in just a week or 2. One book I read in 24 hours lol!

Last week was my first to work at Staples. I trained and worked the register. It was a little stressful, but I think I'll survive. Just so much to learn!!

I went home this weekend for my Ag teacher's retirement party and father's day. Bubba took dad and I out to dinner with his family to celebrate father's day. Doesn't dad look like a proud grandpa? It was good to see everyone. Matt and his fam are going on vacation next week, and as a part of that they are stopping by to see me. So there are things to always look forward to!

I'm planning a trip to Denver to see John-Paul over the 4th of July weekend. I'm soooooo excited!

Exciting times

2008-06-08T18:44:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had my best friends over, and we all went to a wedding on Sat. night. I didn't catch the bouquet again, but hey that's ok. We had a lot of fun. We bought the patterns for the bridesmaid dresses for Amy's wedding. (She and Bethany were friends visiting) There was fabric drama. It's crazy how much drama there is. She's been engaged only a month and the wedding isn't until march. Goo!

I'm really excited about next week. I'm going to start working at Staples on Monday. Tuesday I'm going to help getting the parsonage for the new pastor, who I'm going to helping move in on Wed. It's like 3 days in a row with a plan!!! and maybe Tuesday and Wed. I will get to work too!!

life is going well. I'm still unsure what the future holds but it is looking up!!

My weekend

2008-06-02T14:05:00.000-07:00

So, here's little Kinsley. If she doesn't look like Bubba, I don't know who would. She's getting bigger.

So, there are 2 girls grabbing for the bouqet. I'm the one in beige. That other girl came out of no where!! I thought it was coming into my hands, and then outa nowhere, that other girl grabbed it seconds before it woulda been in my hands. I didn't cry, but I was really bummed. O well. I'm going to another wedding next week. I'll get it then lol!

This is the picture of the small part of the group in attendence of the first "group" wedding. John-Paul has been friends with the same core group of people since the 4th grade. There's about 10 people in "The Group." So, it was really sad that only 3 others (2 other guys were in it so they had to be in it lol) showed up for the wedding. O well. I guess we are growing up. (the groom is in the middle lol)
So, this is the cake that I made for Jackie's coming home party. After a semester in London, it seemed like a piece of art was the way to welcome her home. The original is below. Not exactly the same, but I think it looks pretty good considering I just used knives and spoons to swirl my sugar around instead of brushes and paint. It was such a joy to make a cake again. It is so fun to be creative, and it's great to eat the product!!I came back to Tulsa to try to find a job. It was so hard to say that I was looking for a job when people would ask me what I was doing now. I spent a lot of time at the feed store, and saw a buncha people at the wedding. I felt like such a loser being unemployed, but I'm going to get a job! I know that God had something out there for me, I just have to move my feet to find it. I pray that I can find His path for me.

Going home

2008-05-30T06:39:00.000-07:00

I'm getting ready to turn Fred (my laptop) off, and put him in my car for the trip home. I'm going to spend the weekend there. I'm attending a friend's wedding (not depressing) and attending a coming home party for a beloved friend Jackie. She goes to TU with John-Paul, and we normally hang out all the time, but last semester she was in London. Can't wait to have her back!!

She's having a party for "the group." (John-Paul's friends since like the 4th grade. They are all really close) I'm making a cake. I'm going to decorate it with a monet painting. I'll post pics when I get back to Tulsa on Monday. So excited!!!

Have a great weekend yourself!!

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-26T19:25:00.000-07:00

John-Paul got to Denver Sunday afternoon. I'm missing him a lot. Even though the past few months were pretty hard in our relationship, I miss him so much. I thought I would be ok, but I've kinda been a mess.

I've been doing a lot of reading and journaling. I walked to church on Sat. and Sun. It was nice. It was cloudy, but I made it without getting rained on.

I was hoping someone would invite me to some sort of cookout for Monday, but that didn't happen. The Nazarene Pastor is having the church over for a cookout in 2 weeks. So, it just didn't happen when I wanted it to.

I was really lonely, so I called my friend Rachel Sunday night. She graduated from OSU from the hort dept a year before I did. So, we got together and talked about plants and life in general. She's super busy, and i'm just bumming around for awhile.

I was determined to make it through the day today, but I finally broke down and called the only other person in Tulsa that I consider a friend. The sweet lady from the Nazarene church, Rhonda. We went over to her friend's house and had the most wonderful dinner. Grilled pork loin and home made ice cream. It was the most amazing homemade ice cream I have EVER had!! it was so good, it didn't need anythign chocolate in it. I don't like plain vanilla ice cream, but man!! *drooling thinking about the ice cream*

I'm going to go to bed, so I can get plenty of beauty sleep. I have my interview at the temp agency in the morning. I pray I get a job, I'm going to go batty just sitting around my house for much longer!!

Love,
Dana Marie

Pictures of me, John-Paul and My house!

2008-05-22T19:12:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures so you can see some of my world. I really thought I had posted pictures of my house. Thanks Arin for pointing out I hadn't. Maybe some day everyone can come visit!

Crazy or just misguided?

2008-05-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

So, in the midst of huge changes in my life I find myself totally crazy, I'm trying to tell myself I just don't have a plan so I'm misguided. I'm one who likes to have a plan. God's really teaching me that He's got the script and He'll show me the pages as we shoot the scenes. Right now I just wish I knew where the next scene was going to take place, or maybe even who the main characters will be would be nice.

I met with the pastor of the Nazarene Church yesterday afternoon. He's the interim pastor. He's got a job as a executive trainer, meaning he helps people get promotions. In the midst of my fear yesterday, I remembered him. So, I gave him a call.

In spite of the fact there are so many unanswered questions, of one thing I'm sure. God is and He cares. If He didn't care, I wouldn't have had any one to turn to in these scary times. I realized how blessed I am to have so many people who love and support me. It's amazing, really awesome. People I barely know are reaching out and really embracing me.

He helped me form a short term plan. Like super short term. Today, we planned today. I was to go to a temp agency. Part of my fear was not knowing where to go. He gave me a suggestion of where to go. So, I got up and went. I filled out a buncha forms and they told me to come back next week for an interview lol. So, I didn't accomplish much, but the wheel was set rolling.

I took the Mardel gift card I got from the Chickasha Nazarene church, and went shopping for some encouraging books. I love mardel's, it's a Christian books store. i asked if they had any openings and they are looking for part-time cashiers so I got an application. Maybe a baby step for a bright new future.

On a happy note, one of the people I interviewed with on Monday went to a conference with the 4-H educators I worked with last summer. So, they asked him what he thought, and he said he couldn't say much because there were still more applicants to interview, but I was one of the stronger candidates. So maybe all is not lost.

God is and He cares. (that's the mantra the pastor kept telling me, I get it in the brain, trying to engrave it on the heart)

Much love to you, and may your dreams be coming true!

Frozen by fear

2008-05-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

So, I know I need to find a job. Really, I understand this. I just can't do it.

I've got all the paperwork saved to go down to the temp agency. Just gotta print it off, well take my zip drive to kinkos and get it printed off. I've also scoped out some help wanted signs around my house.

I can't get out of my house to chase down the leads. I'm just crying and crying instead. I know that God won't lead the right job to me if I'm just sitting on my duff, but i really can't make myself move. Fear is awful. Please pray for me.

On a happy note, John-Paul came to visit. He is racing today at Hallett. One of the guys he met at his internship last year gets some of his friends together and rents out the track for a day. He's really excited. He came in last night and we went to eat a quaint little Italian place. He's going to come back and stay one more night, before he goes to Denver. *sighs* it's looking like it will be a long summer.

Fun Quiz

2008-05-19T20:31:00.000-07:00

The rules are simple:
1. Go to http://www.flickr.com/.
2. Type your answer to each question in the “search” box.
3. Using only the first page, pick an image.
4. Copy and paste the picture into your blog.

What is your first name?

What's your favorite food?

What high school did you go to?

What's your favorite color?

(item and color!!!)

Who is your celebrity crush?

(Fernando Alonso- F1 Driver)

What is your favorite drink?

What's your dream vacation?

What is your favorite dessert?

What do you want to be when you grow up?

What is your favorite indulgence?

What do you love the most?

I noticed that i put a lot of chocolate in here, guess it's obvious that's something that I really like!

Vacation?

2008-05-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

So, last week I didn't have to "work" but I tried very hard to be prepared for my interview. I went all over talking to all sorts of people getting ideas. After my interview today, I realize I didn't spend as much time on my presentation as I should have.

It didn't go well, but I can't change that. I guess now I'm waiting again. They said they are interviewing some more people. They are hoping that they can find someone to fill the position by JULY 1st. So, I'm going to a temp agency to see if I can get something for awhile, and who knows how God can work through that.

I did get to spend time with friends and family. I got to see Kinsley. She's growing. I'm an awful person and didn't take any pictures. I got to see one of my wonderful cousins. It was so great to catch up after so many years.

I don't know what the future brings in any area of my life, but it's in God's hands. I just can't try to take it out of His hands.

It's offical...

2008-05-10T13:33:00.000-07:00

So, it's official I'm unemployed. Friday was my last day of work. I'm looking forward to going home next week to see friends and family, and preparing for my intensely insane interview. God is so amazing. I can't wait to see what HE has in store for me!

I got another interview!!

2008-05-06T15:18:00.000-07:00

I called today to check on the status of setting up an interview on campus. I'll be interviewing there on may 19th. So, I'll have a weeks "vacation" before then.

I'm excited to go home and see my niece, and the Clift's twins (a couple from church), and I'm super excited to see one of my beautiful cousins who will be visiting!!

I got an itinerary for the interview, and I'll be there from 1-5!! I have to interview separately with several people, and present a lesson.

I'm sooo excited to see all the things God has in store for me. If this job isn't it, it's because HE has something better. I don't know what I'd be more excited about, so I'm hoping this is it!!

God's so amazing!

2008-05-04T11:45:00.000-07:00

Well, so much has happened in last few days. I'm just rejoicing in God's abundant love.

I called the extension where I interned and the boss let me know what the job on campus was looking for. That whole day I was pondering on what he had told me, and thought how much I'd like that job, but if the county where I'd applied called I'd say yes to them because I just needed a job. Well, that afternoon I found out that they offered the position I applied for to someone else. I was a little sad, but excited that it opened me up for the 4-H/ Horticulture job on campus.

It seemed like everyone was telling me that I needed to find a job that would start right after I didn't have a job, but I felt that quiet voice in my heart telling me to be still and know HE is God. So I was praying that God would provide.

I was sad that John-Paul was going to leave me all alone here for the summer, because his finals were over, so I started praying that God would bring me friendship.

This weekend, I went to both the Seventh day adventist and the Nazarene church. At the SDA church, the women's ministry group is setting up a partnership program that pairs women up for spiritual encouragement. 2 different ladies invited me to sign up, so I am. I'm was excited that God was answering a prayer. Little did I know the love HE wanted to share with me

At the Nazarene church, I sat in a different place, and after service a lady I'd not met came up and told me she had seen me sitting alone and she invited me to sit with her next week, and if I was lonely that I should come visit her any time. She was lonely too. Wow! God's really awesome right?

Well, after that another little lady came up to ask about the job. I'd been keeping her updated about it for the past few weeks. I let her know that next Friday was my last day, but I had an interview so I was being still and seeing what God had in store for me. She grabbed my hand and said God would provide, and left some money in my hand. I tried to give it back, but she wouldn't take it.

I've been rejoicing ever since I got home that God so CLEARLY answered my prayers and said that He's been listening to me, and that He had it all under control. I don't know what exactly is in store, but I know as long as I keep my eyes on Him everything will be ok.

Even though the last few months have been hard, physically and emotionally, I wouldn't change it for anything. I've gotten so close to God. I've learned so many lessons about His love, care and mercy.

I just wanted to give God the glory for all the good things that He's doing in my life. It's only with His help will I get out of this valley I find myself in right now. I know the mountaintop He has planned will be greater than any that I could come up with myself!

Thanks for all your prayers for me. Even though I don't know very many people here, I've been blown away with all the support that I'm getting from friends and family from ALL over the country. I had no idea I was so loved, or important to so many people. What a blessing love from another is!! Thank you for that!

Job update

2008-04-29T18:28:00.000-07:00

I found out that I will only have a job until May 9th. It's a little worrisome. I haven't heard from the extension yet. It was 2 weeks since my interview last Monday.

On happy news, I applied for a job with the Department of Horticulture on OSU campus in Stillwater. It's a 4-H/ Horticulture extension assistant. I would be in charge of the 4-H horticulture program for the whole state. I got a call from them today, and they are interested in interviewing me, but it will be after May 12th. I have to get a lesson together to present, so they can see that I can teach. I haven't decided what I want to do it over, but I have time to put something together.

I've been getting a lot of support from the county where I interned last summer. They have been sending e-mails of support, and if they find out any information. I got a call from them today. The county director got a call about me from the Horticulture department about the other job I applied for. He wants me to call him tomorrow, so he can give me some pointers about the job.

I'm excited equally about both jobs, and both of them would be great. Both of them would start well after I don't have a job. So, I filled out an application for Lowes. I just need a job for a bit until I hear about the 2 jobs I really want. O the joy of waiting!

My Interview and more

2008-04-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

I interviewed for the 4-H job today. My bosses were awesome, and they scheduled me for a light day, so I only had to work until 11:15. I had plenty of time to come home, get pretty, and get to my interview on time.

It went really well. I was Dana. I let my personality shine, without being too over the top. I hope I made it clear how much I wanted to work in extension. It was encouraging that the County Director was asking personality questions to make sure I'd fit into the office.

He mentioned he had heard my name in the grapevine, and thought I had found a job in another county. It made me feel good that I was known in the extension sphere. That will help me get a job, even if it's not this one.

I took a picture of me in my new suit, but my internet isn't liking me, so It won't let me post it. I'm hoping it will let me post this when It's finished.

I should hear in 2 weeks if they have made a decision. I'm praying that they like me and it will be easy for them to choose me!

John-Paul and I had a great weekend. We visited a Seventh Day Adventist Church near my house, and liked it. It was better than the huge church where John-Paul wanted to go. He agreed that it was nice. After church on Saturday, we went and scoped out where my interview was. It was nice to go for a little drive (it's an hour)

Sunday the services were canceled at the Nazarene church to encourage the congregation to visit a church to experience what being a visitor felt like. John-Paul agreed to go with me to a HUGE Methodist church. My bosses go there and invited me to come and visit. It was an experience. They had a full orchestra and a huge choir. It was so huge. I wasn't very comfortable, but I'm glad that I went. Next weekend the Nazarene church is getting together after church and having a pot luck and everyone is going to share their being a visitor experience. I'm excited to see what kind of experiences everyone else had!

I'll keep you updated about the job, and hopefully I'll be able to post the picture of me in my suit. it's so cute!

Job Interview!!!

2008-04-07T15:07:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that I got a call today from the Washington County Extension office, and I have an interview with them on the 14th!! That's next Monday!!!

My bosses are really great about it, so I'll get off in plenty of time to make it I hope!! My replacement started today. He seemed pretty nice in the 10 minutes I was in the shop with him.

God has great plans for me. I don't know exactly what they are yet, but He's a better planner than I am. I'm stretching my faith muscles, and waiting to see what's in store!!

Since I realize I only talk about jobness on here, I thought I would branch out a little lol

I've been visiting a little Nazarene Church not far from my house when I've been in town. It's really dwindled in the past few years, but they are getting a new pastor soon, so there is excitement in the air. The people are ready and willing for change, so it's an exciting place to be. It's fun to go because I'm like the only person there under 40, well other than visiting grandkids and such. So, all the little ladies come and talk to me. It's good to be wanted somewhere!!!

And on a totally random note, one of the bummers about my job is I don't have a microwave available to me, which makes lunch really not fun sometimes. You can only eat so many sandwiches, and really what else do you eat that doesnt need to be warmed. Well, when I went to the grocery store this weekend, I found these little Gourmet on the Go meals. Imported from france, which wasn't what sold me on them, but pretty cheap. $3.10 a pop. I got a salmon and veggies (potatoes, carrots, celery, and peppers) It was amazing!! i didn't have to heat it up, and it was good, and the ingredients didn't have any weird long words I didn't know!! I don't know if you can get them in your store, but gooo! they are awesome, especially for not heating them up. They come with their own fork and sea salt and pepper packet!!! I checked out the website, and they didn't have the little meals on there, but they had some fun stuff. www.stdalfour.com if you want to check it out. It was so good I went after work today, and bought 2 of every flavor!!

Looking forward to changes

2008-04-01T16:57:00.000-07:00

So, my replacement starts working on Monday. I have a job through May 1st, maybe the end of may. It depends on how much it costs to employ every one. I'm praying that I'll hear from the extension by may 1, so I don't have to push the fertilizer spreader around for a long time.

I'm hoping to get a call to schedule an interview this week. They told me they were interviewing in the middle of April, so I'm working on my Faith muscles. I know God has an awesome plan for me, and I'm so excited to see what it is!!

Mom and dad came up last weekend for a visit. It was pretty fun. We pretty much just hung out, but it's nice to see them. I'm dreading next weekend already. I'm going to have to work on Saturday. We are trying really hard to get the weed treatment done by then. I dont' think it's looking so good because today, I worked 10 hours, and still didn't treat 10 houses!! crazy times.

4 more weeks!

2008-03-25T17:31:00.000-07:00

So, my bosses interviewed people yesterday and they really like one. They were checking his references, and I think I'll have a job for 4 more weeks. His 2 week notice and 2 weeks while he's getting trained.

the extension is interviewing the middle of April. I'm hoping that I'll at least have interviewed before I loose my job. I'm planning on applying to Lowe's as interim thing. But I'm not going to do that until I have a date nailed down when I'll quit at spraying yards.

John-Paul is upset that I'll be with out a job for awhile, and I might have to move, but I'm so excited about the possibilities. I think he just doesn't want me to move. I don't really want to move either, but it's just 45 minutes north. It's not like we haven't lived farther away than that. God has a great plan, and I'm still excited to see what it is!

The dog that bit me is up to date on shots, so hopefully I won't get rabies yay!

so ready!

2008-03-24T17:34:00.000-07:00

So, Today was a loooonnnnnggg day at work. I did a lot of pretty big yards. I would say it was pretty uneventful, except I got bitten by a dog.

I had a note to call the dog owner and let her know I was coming. So, I called and said I'd be there in about 15 minutes. I pulled up to her house probably 12 minutes later. Thinking the dog would be inside, I went right on into the back yard, but I did close the gate behind me. I got all the way to the back fence and then I noticed a large fluffy dog running toward me. I began to hightail it to the gate, but the dog nipped me behind the knee. I rang the homeowner's doorbell, and asked her to put her dog in. She asked if I was ok, because I was crying a little. I let her know the dog bit me, but I was wearing my underarmor long johns and couldn't pull them up far enough to see behind my knee. When I got to back to the shop, I took the long johns off, and there's a little bite mark.

I was able to show both my bosses because they were at the shop doing interviews. I think they might have a hopeful or two. I really hope they do. If they hire one of these guys, I'll have a job for at least 2 weeks while Trevor is training the new person. In that 2 week period I'll put my application in at Lowes, and pray that I get an interview/and job at the extension.

I know God has a great plan, and I'm trying to be patient to see what it is!!

job fun

2008-03-19T15:41:00.001-07:00

So, those are my legs today. We are spraying yellow chemicals and blue dye, hence nice green legs. Just one of the many reasons I think about that convince me I need a new job.

This weekend I went to the big livestock show in OKC to meet the county director of the county where I applied to be a 4-H educator. I was able to talk to him a little, and a couple of other people we both knew, so hopefully he remembers me and thinks I'm great! They will be interviewing in the middle of April for the job.

My bosses are interviewing a few people tomorrow for my job. They aren't really excited about any of them. Lori said it was hard looking for another me. lol! So, I've decided if I don't get the extension job, and they haven't found a replacment I'll just stay. That way I won't have to move or anything, and I'll be smokin hott by the end of the summer.

I have only lost 2 lbs since I started, but I'm firmer all over. Muscles are growing and my pudge is shrinking a little. I went shopping with a friend from Stillwater on monday and I bought a pair of shorts at target, size 3!!!!!! I didn't have to force the button and zipper. The pudge I have is a little bit above the top of the short so a tee should hide it nicely. I'm soooooo excited!!

so, today....

2008-03-12T18:51:00.000-07:00

I didn't want to go to work, like always, but I did anyway, because I have to.

When I got there my boss informed me that they are trying really hard to find a replacement for me and he thinks they have a good lead. My former academic advisor's son, Ben. Ben had called a friendly competitor who didn't have any room for them, so the other company called my boss. So first thing in the morning, I feel like staying at this job isn't an option, which is good. I had been praying for clarity in whether or not to look elsewhere. Question answered.

So, I need to call the county office that I put my letter of interest into, to make sure that they got my information. Hopefully they will be interviewing in a week or so.

I called the Optometrist in Chickasha that I worked for over summers and breaks, and she's going to be calling around to her friends in practice up here, as well as asking sales reps about openings. She also called a florist in town, and gave me a contact for someone who would be good to talk to to find a florist job.

So, I'm officially job hunting again. It's sad. I really want a tropical plant job, either as a grower or interiorscaping. there's not anything open that I know of like that in Tulsa. So, my next rain/snow/wind day off I'm going to just cold turkey go to their office and give them my I'm great, have lots of experience and drive you should hire me spill. I've practiced it on days that working really stinks. It's getting pretty good I must say lol.

Somehow the stress of looking for a job, when I know i should be looking is way less than stressing if I should look for one at all, if that makes sense.

So, please be praying that I can be sane while looking for a job. I know God has a place that's perfect for me, and this time I'm going to wait on HIM to help me find it!

what to do?

2008-03-11T17:59:00.000-07:00

so, I went to the Chiropractor for an hour after a 9 hour work day today. He said he wouldn't tell me to take the day off to heal, but he also said that it's going to take longer for it to heal with all the strenuous labor I'm doing.

I'm upset that I had a 9 hour work day, and didn't get all of my houses done today. A little bit I was moving slow, a little bit I got lost, but mainly it was because I normally do 15-18 houses. Today I had 20 invoices. Why in the world would they do that to me? They talk about how I'm being a trooper to work, so we don't get behind, but I can't work like this every day and ever hope to get better. *sighs*

I wanna take a day off because I hurt, but we will be behind another day. A little part of me thinks they over worked me today, so I should punish them by not going in, but really it would just punish me later. I'd just have to work longer days later or Saturdays. Being a grownup stinks

birthdays and backs

2008-03-10T16:32:00.000-07:00

so, Ganny is sad I haven't posted in awhile. So here's for you Ganny.

Last Monday, I fell in the shower and tweaked my back, and then later in the week, Thursday I full out threw it out. I took the day off Friday, and went to the chiropractor. I had to return this Monday morning, and they made appointments for Tuesday and Friday. I miss Dr. Essex just adjusting it once and it was better. It will be at least 3 months until he can do it, he flew out to Iraq Friday morning.

After I threw my back out I made a birthday cake for the party John-Paul and I were to attend on Friday. the "group" was getting together for the last 2 people to turn 21. They both like the simpsons, so I made a Duff cake (That's the brand of beer on the Simpsons)

After the chiropractor we headed down to Norman where I layed on the floor and enjoyed hanging out with people. It was a nice change after mainly being in Tulsa alone.

I'm going to lay down on my back with the ice

Rainy Day Happiness

2008-03-03T07:17:00.000-08:00

So, it's raining, and it's really cold outside. The wind is blowing really hard, and that means
I GET THE DAY OFF!!!! I'm sooooo excited. I don't have to go outside, and I don't have to drag the big hose all around. it's a smile inducing day. I love rain!!

catchup

2008-03-02T16:59:00.000-08:00

So, I haven't posted in awhile because I've been busy. I put in a lot of time at work this week, and it took it's toll. I was unsure if I really liked the job, and Wed. I just couldn't stop crying. I had planned on going to lunch at a chemical supplier with my boss, and I didn't wanna go because I'd be the only girl, and I was crying. And mainly, if I didn't go I could get home earlier. So, I called my boss and let him know I didn't want to go to the lunch. I was crying, and i could tell he didn't know what he should do, so he called his wife lol

She called me a little while later, and I told her I was unhappy. I was tired all the time, grass is really boring, I'm lonely on the truck all day, and I'm not coping to being outside like I thought I would.
So, Thursday we had a staff meeting, and I'm supposed to know in a week if I want this job or look for another one. I have no idea. I don't want to look for another oen, but this one is SO physically demanding. everyone says it will get better, but I'm so tired of hearing that. I'm still just as sore as before! I'm worried about working outside all summer in the heat. I have no idea what to do, but it's been really getting me down, so I haven't gotten online much. So, there's my depressing update.

Meet Kinsley Mattison

2008-02-24T19:25:00.000-08:00

Here she is. I think she really looks like Matt!

out on my own

2008-02-21T14:28:00.000-08:00

Tuesday was my first day to be out on a truck by myself. It went rather well I suppose. The best and worst part of the day were the same incident, so I thought it was note worthy.

So, the trucks are equipped with a 400 foot hose, like a garden hose but heavier to withstand pressure. So you pull on the hose reel and get to the back of the yard. You spray, then gather the hose up, and use the amazing automatic winder to recoil the hose on the reel. Well the worst part of the day was I got a kink in the hose, and it got through on the reel. I couldn't moved the hose any more, physically or with the auto winder. So I began to tug, pull, cry, and pray.

After about 10-15 minutes of this, a Scott's lawn truck drove by. I prayed harder for help, and the guy turned around!!!! He pulled up and parked and helped me un-tangle my mess of a hose. It's so great to be reminded that there are nice people out there. I would have been there forever trying to untangle my mess.

Wednesday it was kinda icky out, and way too cold to spray so we fertilized trees instead. I didn't have to go by myself which was nice. I enjoy the company. Thursday it was gross outside again, so we worked in the shop. Tomorrow, it's supposed to be a little bit better, so we are going to try to treat lawns. I'm bummed it's going to get better tomorrow, because John-Paul is going home to Chickasha tonight, and I want to go with him. I'll have to drive by myself Friday, which is a bummer because the turnpike from Tulsa to OKC is BORING!!!

Well, I'd better get packing for the weekend so I'll be able to head out right after work. yay!! lol

Valentines

2008-02-15T15:04:00.001-08:00

Well I became an aunt again on Valentines. Kinsley was born. I heard she had a lot of hair. People told me how much she weighed and how long she was, but I didn't store that information for more than a second or two. She's a baby, and that's about all I have to say about that. I'm planning on going home in a week or so to visit and get a few pictures... Being an aunt isn't a big priority to me, but I think that's because my sister-in-law isn't my biggest fan and has kinda given that opinion to the boys. O well, can't worry about that anyway. Glad I don't like kids much anyway.

Kids are great I suppose, but I've just never wanted to be a babysitter or a mom. People think I sound mean when I say I don't like kids, but I just don't know how to connect with them, so I'd prefer to not have much to do with them. (sorry you moms out there. Your kids are cute and i love to see the pictures, but please don't ask me to babysit for them.)

I had a long day at work on Valentines, but that's ok because I got Friday off. It was going to be below freezing and raining, and since there isn't much to do outside in that weather I got to stay at home and get ready for the Nazarene Student Center friends to come over this evening. I don't think it's a big group, but it will be fun to see them.

John-Paul put a cute poem in my mailbox for me to get when I got home from work, and then when I got inside he had left a little box of chocolates and a cute card. It made me feel nice that he found time to come over while I was at work. He only has class on Tue and Thur, so those days are really busy for him. Our pizza was great, and I fell asleep on the couch while we were watching tv. Not real romantic, but hey is life isn't a movie right?

Saturday V. Sunday

2008-02-13T15:29:00.000-08:00

This has been a big week already, and it's only Wednesday!! I had the pastor of the Seventh Day Adventist Church over on monday night for dinner. John-Paul was raised in the SDA church, and wants to continue to go there. I had some questions, so I bribed the pastor with food to answer them lol. John-Paul wanted salmon, so I went and bought a too big piece and about died when I paid for it, but John-Paul is happy. He's enjoying the leftovers immensely.

The pastor went through a lot of scripture about the Sabbath, and since there's no clear place saying hey let's meet on Sunday in the Bible, I guess I'll go with John-Paul and be happy. I know that I should submit to the spiritual leadership of my (hopefully soon future) husband, but it's sad. I really liked the Nazarene church here. i really felt welcome, and I could see a lot of places that I could have plugged in, but that's ok. I'm sure there's opportunities at the SDA church too. It's just so big, i feel lost in the crowd. O well I guess.

Prayer works, just in case you didn't know. This morning my car door wouldn't latch so i couldn't go anywhere. I went into the house to get my tool box after fiddling with the door for a while. I was praying that I wouldn't be too late to work, and when I came back outside with the tools, the door was fixed. It was amazing. I was only 30 minutes late. That just meant it was a few degrees warmer outside when we started.

I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I'll get my first delivery pizza to my house. Papa Johns has heart shaped pizzas, so instead of fighting crowds in every restaurant, John-Paul and I are going to stay in and watch a movie. Boring, but o well.

I'm getting ready for the Nazarene Student Center group to come over for a gathering at my house on Friday night. I'm looking forward to seeing all my friends. I miss being so close to so many people I know. John-Paul is about the only person I know and see besides my boss lol.

So, I'm famous!

2008-02-09T08:08:00.000-08:00

I was checking on the blog of my fav knitting shop (ok, it's the only knitting shop that I know of) and they had posted pictures from the un-super bowl party. My Princess Leia hat made the cut of pictures they posted. Yay!!! I feel special!!

If your interested the link is http://www.loopsknitting.com/blog/ You have to scroll down a buncha pictures of yarn in boxes, I'm the last photo under super bowl party. I'm excited. John-Paul doesn't think it's a big deal, but they took about 30 pictures of finished projects, and mine made the cool cut!! lol

The Working Life

2008-02-07T14:46:00.000-08:00

So, today we sprayed yards again. Monday it was so hard and hot, I thought I wasn't going to make it. Today went much better, but it might be that my boss, Trevor, sprayed back yards and I sprayed fronts. You don't have to pull the hose as far to spray a front yard.

I have learned that I hate the hoses a lot. They are heavy, and when it's cold they don't like to straighten out so you can roll them back up easily. Luckily there's an automatic winder for all the hoses. That makes me happy! I've successfully tied a knot in the hose 2 or 3 times. Trevor laughs every time, and calls me a rookie.

I don't think I've put in 8 hours any day this week, and I'm very excited that I get paid for 8 every day! Tomorrow I'm going to learn how to drive the 2 wheel riding spreader. We will be fertilizing, and Trevor said that was easier. No hoses yay!!

Tagged and not too tired!

2008-02-05T15:04:00.000-08:00

My lovely cousin tagged me, and today was so easy compared with yesterday I thought I'd do it right now!

A-Attached or single: Attached
B- Best Friend: John-Paul and Amy

C- Cake or Pie: Cake (chocolate with chocolate fudgy icing)
D-Day of Choice: Sunday
E- Essential Item: my laptop with internet connection!
F-Favorite Color: Cant choose between yellow, orange and green. I like that pie piece of the color wheel.
G- Gummi bears or worms: hmm... the sour worms? I do love gummy bears too tho
H- Hometown: Chickasha, OK
I-Indulgences: sugar (cookies, cake, brownies, milkshakes....) and fast food, there is a little overlap there. (I'm dying for a Braums Milkshake!)
J-January or July: July, I like the fireworks and homemade Ice cream (see above lol)
K-Kids: none unless my car and John-Paul count
L-Life isn't complete without: Love
M-Marriage Date: sometime in the hopefully not so far future.
N-Number of Siblings: 1
O-Oranges or Apples: Apples are so much easier to eat!
P-Phobias or Fears: Someone breaking into my house.
Q- Quotes: "Fake it til you make it." My house parents in Denver
R-Reason to Smile: I've worked 14.5 hours this week and will be paid for 16, and John-Paul will be over soon!
S-Season: Spring, all my favorites are blooming. I love spring bulbs!!
T-Tag Six: I don't know 6 people on this site lol
U-Unknown Fact About Me- I want to go to culinary school and open a little cake shop. (Gotta pay of student loans first ick)
V-Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animal: Grew up raising cattle to put in the freezer. Gotta love a nice juicy burger (again, Braums is calling my name.... arg!)
W-Worst Habit: I would have said biting my nails until about 2 months ago, but now I think it's letting my emotions get the best of me.
X-X-Rays or Ultrasounds: never had an ultrasound, and I don't want one, so I guess X-rays.
Y-Your Favorite Food: Dessert!!
Z-Zodiac: Cancer

First day of work

2008-02-04T14:48:00.000-08:00

it was a very long hard day. I pulled hoses all over people's yards spraying chemicals. It was hot today, 82. That didn't help. The thing that makes me happy is that tommorow there's a 60% chance of rain, and we can't work in the rain. I'm hoping for a shop day!!

Fun times!

2008-02-03T19:25:00.000-08:00

Today I had the best time I've had in a while. Sad, but true.

I went to church at a nearby (less than a mile) Nazarene church. I've visited there a few times, and the people are super sweet. They had potluck, so I had to stay. I was the only college aged person there, and that's not a big deal except they are about a block from campus... any way, they are in transitions with pastors, so they were having a roundtable discussion about the mission of that church and where they were heading. It was interesting, and I really felt like my opinion was really valid and the little old people were excited to have me there. I'm really looking forward to fellowshipping there. I'm nervous about talking to John-Paul about it because he really wants to go to the Seventh Day Adventist church in town, but they are not nearly as friendly there. So, we will see what happens I guess.

After potluck, I went to a non-Superbowl party at a knitting shop. It was lots of fun. I met a lot of people and was able to knit for hours. I finished a project, so I got a discount. I got 10 bucks off my purchase, so I bought some of the needles I had been wanting for awhile. I don't think I have laughed so hard or so much in a long time! They said come back any evening and theres most likely people there knitting. I can't wait to have a project to make!!

It was good to spend the whole day with people. If I had been alone all day I think I would have been freaking out about going to work in the morning. I know this because as soon as I got home, I started freaking out about going to work in the morning. The weather is supposed to be nice tomorrow, so I'm sure we will be out spreading pre-emergent herbicides all day. It will be an adventure, and I'm not sure if I'm ready for it or not, but it's going to happen regardless... Guess I'll get online tomorrow and give an update.

Weekend adventure

2008-02-01T16:53:00.000-08:00

I get to spend the whole weekend alone!!! John-Paul went home for the second weekend in a row. He didn't ask me to go with him, so I didn't have to be mean about saying that I didn't want to go. It feels so good to sit here in my little house, and there's no one to make me feel guilty, no one to make me feel sad. It's just me, the stack of movies I rented at Blockbuster, the insanely hard jigsaw puzzle that took my friend 3 months to put together, and the big takeout box from Pei-Wei.

I went to Wal-Greens and got a new fingernail polish. It's exciting that I finally quit biting my nails. I'm enjoying being able to feel the nails tapping on the keys. It's almost as exciting as getting on the scales and seeing a lower number, and not being able to wear any of my jeans without a belt.

I'm watching Waitress. The only nice thing I can say about it is it makes me want pie, and andy griffin is in it. The pies in it look amazing. Chocolate ganache, berries, bannanas, so many yummy things. I like pie. Not as much as cookies, and those not as much as brownies, but my favorite is cake. I love cake.

Now I'm just rambling. I'd better be off. The jigsaw puzzle is calling my name and I rented 3 other movies, all cartoons. yay growing up

Dana Dana and more Dana

2008-01-30T18:46:00.001-08:00

Here's some pictures of me over the past few years. I'm pretty sure they are in chronological order. I've gotten really boring in the last year or so, and I don't really have many pictures to document it lol!

A Fresh Beginning

2008-01-30T13:30:00.000-08:00

I'm a grown up, and it's freaking me out a little.

I just finished college, moved to a new town, and am looking forward to starting a new job in a few days. It's amazing the freedom that I have now, but man there is a lot more responsibility than in college. I don't have a neat freak roommate anymore to do the little every day cleaning around the house, but I'm finding joy in doing those things for myself. I love having my own house so much, I'm still excited about taking the trash down to the curb!!

This is my lovely house. I'm not dating a cop, nor am I living with one. He lives across the street, and parks his car in my yard because there's not much room on the street. I don't mind at all, it's kinda like a free security system. I have a really big yard. It's almost like my house was built on the ally, because it's so far from the street. I'm lucky all the other houses on my block are RIGHT on the street!

I love that I'm so close to John-Paul. I've gotten to see him every day! It's such a treat after having a long distance relationship for 5 years. Hopefully we will get married soon, so I don't have to make him walk in the cold the 9 blocks to his dorm every night!

I can't wait to start working. I went to a informational seminar with my boss yesterday, and it was nice. Well, the seminar was boring and pointless for the both of us, but we got a free lunch, and I got to know my boss more. I will be starting on Monday. We will be doing the first pre-emergent treatment of the season. Keeping those weeds out of lawns all over the Tulsa Metro!!

Hopefully I'll find enough exciting things to post often!