Well all, I think the toughest week of project is over.
This past week was just really intense. Basically, during most of our free time, we would go out and talk to people about what they believe, as far as their faith. One of the toughest questions we asked is “What do you think happens after death?” It was sweet to hear all the different perspectives and opinions. At the same time, we would share how we believed that as people we are sinful. However, God gave us this amazing gift through Jesus Christ that we need to accept into our lives.
It was a great week but now I am excited for the coming week because it is all community building, which I love. The week is themed “All for One.”
One of the more ironic but great parts of project has been the choice of computers in my action group. My action group is basically a group of four students and one staff leader. We are a bible study and do a lot of stuff together. One of the great things is that three of us have Apple Powerbooks. How unbelievable is that. That’s right. There are many people that are realizing how superior and Apple is to any other computer.
Anyways, today has been the first day it has consistently rained in weeks. Because of that, I did not have to go to work. How great is that?! Also, a group of us wanted to go to New York this week, but we will see if that actually works out.
For the second time in my life, I went to a laudrymat today. It is kind of weird because I have always done my laundry either at my house, my apartment, or dorm. In a way, it’s a cool experience because it gives me a bunch of time away from everything and everyone to regroup and get things done. However, not being in the comfort of my own place is a bit weird.
One of the guys in my action group let me borrow a CD by Passion, called “How Great Thou Art.” For those of you who are into worship music, I would totally recommend it.
Other than that, it has been a good week and project has been going well.
Monday, June 27, 2005
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Deals, Steaks, and Sunburn
Here I am folks, four weeks into summer project and still trying to find time for everything.
Summer project is a lot like freshman year of college. You meet a ton of new people and there is always something to do with somebody. Whether you want to go play basketball, hang out, have a deep conversation, or just play MAFIA, you can always find a group of people to do it with. There are also the infamous phone number exchanges. Many times, at least during freshman year, I would exchange my phone number with everyone I came in contact with. Midway through the semester, I did not know half the people in my phone book. While it is a little different on summer project, everyone is getting around to exchanging phone numbers, e-mail addresses, etc.
For those of you who know I love Apple Computers, I have been blessed with great roommates. Out of the four other roommates I have, two of them have PowerBooks, how sweet is that!!
Ohh yea, I think I told everyone I was going to Philadelphia last week. A group of six of us went, which was sweet and we went around to three different Philly Cheese steak places to see which one was the best. While Pat�s is by far the most popular, most of us agreed that Geno�s was the place to be. If you ever go, make sure to get cheezwiz on the sandwich. That is the only way to go.
I also went to Atlantic City last week, which is only 30 minutes away. It is much bigger than Ocean City with a bunch of casinos and what not. One of the cool parts of the city is their outlet mall, similar to the one in Kenosha. I have found out that one of my new favorite stores is H & M. For those of you who have not been there, you are missing out. They have great clothing for reasonable prices. It is like the IKEA of clothing stores.
Speaking of great deals, I found this Chinese place right down the block that has this lunch special for only $4.80!! And there is a ton of food too!!
The Golf Course is going well. I really do enjoy working for my boss because he always compliments us on our work and is encouraging in general. I have learned that no matter what, I just want to work hard for him because I respect him so much. But the bad part about the job is that I got sunburn. I thought I never could get sunburn, but that is untrue. So my skin is peeling a bit and I am really itchy.
Other than all that, I have been learning a lot about God. While that sounds like the most general statement ever, it really is true. I am understanding how sweet it is to have a relationship with Jesus and really, how amazing of a friend He is in my life.
Alright everyone, that is it for now, I hope all is well!
Summer project is a lot like freshman year of college. You meet a ton of new people and there is always something to do with somebody. Whether you want to go play basketball, hang out, have a deep conversation, or just play MAFIA, you can always find a group of people to do it with. There are also the infamous phone number exchanges. Many times, at least during freshman year, I would exchange my phone number with everyone I came in contact with. Midway through the semester, I did not know half the people in my phone book. While it is a little different on summer project, everyone is getting around to exchanging phone numbers, e-mail addresses, etc.
For those of you who know I love Apple Computers, I have been blessed with great roommates. Out of the four other roommates I have, two of them have PowerBooks, how sweet is that!!
Ohh yea, I think I told everyone I was going to Philadelphia last week. A group of six of us went, which was sweet and we went around to three different Philly Cheese steak places to see which one was the best. While Pat�s is by far the most popular, most of us agreed that Geno�s was the place to be. If you ever go, make sure to get cheezwiz on the sandwich. That is the only way to go.
I also went to Atlantic City last week, which is only 30 minutes away. It is much bigger than Ocean City with a bunch of casinos and what not. One of the cool parts of the city is their outlet mall, similar to the one in Kenosha. I have found out that one of my new favorite stores is H & M. For those of you who have not been there, you are missing out. They have great clothing for reasonable prices. It is like the IKEA of clothing stores.
Speaking of great deals, I found this Chinese place right down the block that has this lunch special for only $4.80!! And there is a ton of food too!!
The Golf Course is going well. I really do enjoy working for my boss because he always compliments us on our work and is encouraging in general. I have learned that no matter what, I just want to work hard for him because I respect him so much. But the bad part about the job is that I got sunburn. I thought I never could get sunburn, but that is untrue. So my skin is peeling a bit and I am really itchy.
Other than all that, I have been learning a lot about God. While that sounds like the most general statement ever, it really is true. I am understanding how sweet it is to have a relationship with Jesus and really, how amazing of a friend He is in my life.
Alright everyone, that is it for now, I hope all is well!
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
A long time...
Folks, I apologize for not posting in a while. I have been in Ocean City for almost three weeks now and I am still attempting to get fully in gear. It seems as if each day brings so many new things that I cannot keep up. However, it has been pretty fun and exciting at the same time.
God is doing some sweet stuff out here. There are just some people I look up to so much already. The more I get to know some people, the more I respect them.
In addition, I have been able to find some great deals. A few of us walked into a store thinking it was a thrift store. It was not, but we did find the best deal in town. A 24 pack of Jones Soda 12 oz. bottles for $6. That comes to only a quarter a bottle for Jones Soda!!! Are you kidding me?!?! Then, on Sunday, we found this Chinese Restaurant down the block that has a lunch special for only $4.80 and so much food!! Ya, the deals have been great.
Lets see, I will be getting two new roommates this weekend. They both had to take summer school, I think, so they could not come until now. I am pretty excited because that will complete my Action Group.
For the first time since project started, I played sand volleyball next to the ocean. While it was sweet and all, the sand was not so good because there are so many shells in it. Unfortunately, some people got cut up and all, but there were some great games.
Like I said before, I work at Grate Bay Golf Course. My job is so sweet and laid back. I have never worked outdoors, but the time really does go by faster. My boss is really laid back along with all my coworkers. I have learned a lot of things and have made a few mistakes along the way too. Just today, I learned how to work the fairway mower, which is huge and sweet. It even has a speedometer that goes up to 10 mph. Which is pretty sweet for a lawn mower. My boss was like, “try to be careful, the thing is worth $40,000.” Are you joking me that is insane for a lawn mower!?!
Along with all that, the last week has been good. There are still so many people to meet and get to know. I will let you know how it goes. I am going to Philadelphia tomorrow to get a real Philly Cheese Steak. I will let you all know how that goes too!
That is it for now, I hope you are all doing well and would love to hear from you too! Ohh yea, if you wanted to send mail, my address is:
1301 Central Avenue
Ocean City, New Jersey 08226
Alright, that is it for now, take care!
God is doing some sweet stuff out here. There are just some people I look up to so much already. The more I get to know some people, the more I respect them.
In addition, I have been able to find some great deals. A few of us walked into a store thinking it was a thrift store. It was not, but we did find the best deal in town. A 24 pack of Jones Soda 12 oz. bottles for $6. That comes to only a quarter a bottle for Jones Soda!!! Are you kidding me?!?! Then, on Sunday, we found this Chinese Restaurant down the block that has a lunch special for only $4.80 and so much food!! Ya, the deals have been great.
Lets see, I will be getting two new roommates this weekend. They both had to take summer school, I think, so they could not come until now. I am pretty excited because that will complete my Action Group.
For the first time since project started, I played sand volleyball next to the ocean. While it was sweet and all, the sand was not so good because there are so many shells in it. Unfortunately, some people got cut up and all, but there were some great games.
Like I said before, I work at Grate Bay Golf Course. My job is so sweet and laid back. I have never worked outdoors, but the time really does go by faster. My boss is really laid back along with all my coworkers. I have learned a lot of things and have made a few mistakes along the way too. Just today, I learned how to work the fairway mower, which is huge and sweet. It even has a speedometer that goes up to 10 mph. Which is pretty sweet for a lawn mower. My boss was like, “try to be careful, the thing is worth $40,000.” Are you joking me that is insane for a lawn mower!?!
Along with all that, the last week has been good. There are still so many people to meet and get to know. I will let you know how it goes. I am going to Philadelphia tomorrow to get a real Philly Cheese Steak. I will let you all know how that goes too!
That is it for now, I hope you are all doing well and would love to hear from you too! Ohh yea, if you wanted to send mail, my address is:
1301 Central Avenue
Ocean City, New Jersey 08226
Alright, that is it for now, take care!
Tuesday, June 7, 2005
Folks, We gotta Job!
Holla at you boys, I got a job today!!! Hupila would be so proud. I am officially a grounds crewmember of a local golf course. How sweet is that?!? Lets see, the only real downside to the job is that I will have to wake up early in the morning because I have to be to work at 7:00 a.m. Other than that, I get to work outside with some other guys that are great and it is pretty laid back. I did not even fill out an application for the job before I got hired.
Other than that, it has been sweet getting to know a ton of new people. And even better, there will be whole wave of people coming this weekend because they are on the quarter semesters. Ya, I am pretty excited.
Project, in a way, feels a lot like the beginning of freshman year of college so far. There are just so many people and everyone wants to hang out all the time. It just seems like there is no time to break apart and spend some alone time doing things. As I currently type, there is a big card game going on in the room across from me and there are people doing random stuff upstairs. It is taking so much in my body right now just to sit down and attempt to concentrate. And to think, I have to go to bed soon, wow, lets see how that goes!
Well, it is almost 10:30 here, so I think it might be time for bed. Wow, I feel like an old man! I hope this all finds you well. Take care.
Other than that, it has been sweet getting to know a ton of new people. And even better, there will be whole wave of people coming this weekend because they are on the quarter semesters. Ya, I am pretty excited.
Project, in a way, feels a lot like the beginning of freshman year of college so far. There are just so many people and everyone wants to hang out all the time. It just seems like there is no time to break apart and spend some alone time doing things. As I currently type, there is a big card game going on in the room across from me and there are people doing random stuff upstairs. It is taking so much in my body right now just to sit down and attempt to concentrate. And to think, I have to go to bed soon, wow, lets see how that goes!
Well, it is almost 10:30 here, so I think it might be time for bed. Wow, I feel like an old man! I hope this all finds you well. Take care.
Saturday, June 4, 2005
The OC
Well, I am finally here in Ocean City, my home for the summer…(technically, I am currently flying on an airplane back home for my sister’s graduation, but who really cares about details.)
We arrived here on Wednesday night around 7:30. It was so sweet because we met up with three other cars in Pennsylvania, so we had this huge caravan of people through Philadelphia rush hour, which was definitely interesting.
Also, on that night, I was asked to emcee the first meetings tomorrow. Which were sweet and a lot of fun. I enjoyed doing it, although it was a bit nerve-racking speaking in front of people I really did not know at all. However, that quickly changed.
Over the past few days it is shocking to me how well I am remembering names and how much I have gotten to know people. It just seems like everyone is open and willing to share what is going on. This environment is totally me and I am excited to have that the rest of the summer.
I live in a place called the Ambassador’s Inn. It is four stories and 80 of us students live there. There are two other places on the same block that people live, they are called Grandmas and the Mansion. However, the Ambassador’s Inn is the main place. To explain a bit, Campus Crusade owns the Ambassador’s Inn. It is not a functioning hotel or anything. It doesn’t even look like a hotel. It is just sweet. If I can post some pictures somehow, I will.
I have already met some great people. I have met numerous Cubs fans and even two Bears fans!!! How exciting is that!!?? And there are still about 60 students to come to the project who go to quarter schools!!!
Some time the last few days have been spent trying to find a job. So far not luck in finding a coffee shop to work at, but I did apply to Ben and Jerry’s, which would be sweet to work at. So we will see what God has in store for me this summer as far as work goes.
Alright, that’s about all I am going to write for now. The OC is great. I am sure home will be fun too the next few days with my whole family for my sister’s graduation. Take care all.
We arrived here on Wednesday night around 7:30. It was so sweet because we met up with three other cars in Pennsylvania, so we had this huge caravan of people through Philadelphia rush hour, which was definitely interesting.
Also, on that night, I was asked to emcee the first meetings tomorrow. Which were sweet and a lot of fun. I enjoyed doing it, although it was a bit nerve-racking speaking in front of people I really did not know at all. However, that quickly changed.
Over the past few days it is shocking to me how well I am remembering names and how much I have gotten to know people. It just seems like everyone is open and willing to share what is going on. This environment is totally me and I am excited to have that the rest of the summer.
I live in a place called the Ambassador’s Inn. It is four stories and 80 of us students live there. There are two other places on the same block that people live, they are called Grandmas and the Mansion. However, the Ambassador’s Inn is the main place. To explain a bit, Campus Crusade owns the Ambassador’s Inn. It is not a functioning hotel or anything. It doesn’t even look like a hotel. It is just sweet. If I can post some pictures somehow, I will.
I have already met some great people. I have met numerous Cubs fans and even two Bears fans!!! How exciting is that!!?? And there are still about 60 students to come to the project who go to quarter schools!!!
Some time the last few days have been spent trying to find a job. So far not luck in finding a coffee shop to work at, but I did apply to Ben and Jerry’s, which would be sweet to work at. So we will see what God has in store for me this summer as far as work goes.
Alright, that’s about all I am going to write for now. The OC is great. I am sure home will be fun too the next few days with my whole family for my sister’s graduation. Take care all.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Out of the Office
So here I am, sitting at my brother's house in Columbus, Ohio after midnight in deep thought. It is kind of weird because I am in a physical and psychological transition period.
Physically, I am about halfway between my final destinations for the summer, Ocean City, New Jersey. Psychological, because I still have all the thoughts from home but I know in just a few hours I will be overwhelmed with a whole new world.
While I am extremely excited to be going on this summer project, I am sad to leave home, especially my family. I really love just hanging out with them and talking. We usually always have great conversations, although they can get pretty heated. I will miss them a lot this summer, but I know that God wants me to be in Ocean City. There is so much to learn and so many people to meet. I do not know exactly what to expect, but I know God will be moving.
Other than that, I had a great night at my brother's house in Ohio. It was a blast with lots of food, like usual, and good fun. James and Shiney (my oldest brother and his wife) are great people and unbelievable hosts. I love them both so much and cherish the times that we get to hang out.
Alright, now I am tired, I'm out folks....
Physically, I am about halfway between my final destinations for the summer, Ocean City, New Jersey. Psychological, because I still have all the thoughts from home but I know in just a few hours I will be overwhelmed with a whole new world.
While I am extremely excited to be going on this summer project, I am sad to leave home, especially my family. I really love just hanging out with them and talking. We usually always have great conversations, although they can get pretty heated. I will miss them a lot this summer, but I know that God wants me to be in Ocean City. There is so much to learn and so many people to meet. I do not know exactly what to expect, but I know God will be moving.
Other than that, I had a great night at my brother's house in Ohio. It was a blast with lots of food, like usual, and good fun. James and Shiney (my oldest brother and his wife) are great people and unbelievable hosts. I love them both so much and cherish the times that we get to hang out.
Alright, now I am tired, I'm out folks....
Saturday, May 28, 2005
Good News
Well, for about the last month, I have been on an alternate pool for a Community Advisor (some call it Residence Advisor) position for next year. Basically what that meant was that I was qualified to be a CA but all the positions were filled. They developed this alternate pool to replace the people who drop out throughout the summer and fall semester.
While all this does not sound like that big of a deal, it really was. I am one of those people that really like to plan ahead and have things set up. However, since the start of my sophomore year of college, I have been working on ways to be more spontaneous and easy going. Well, I did not know God was going to put me in a situation where I would be forced to either choose to be in an alternate pool with no gurantees or sign a lease so I would have a place to live next semester. In the end, I choose to stay in the pool and not sign a lease.
Over the last month, I really could not do that much. Nothing I did or said could really get me the position, so I learned to rely on God for the whole thing. It was pretty funny because I was joking with my roommates that they were going to live so far away next year (which they really are), but Hupila would always say, "At least I have a place to live!" Anyways, as of yesterday morning, I have a place to live too!
I received e-mail from the director for Housing and Residential Life telling me there was an opening in Frontier Hall for next year and if I would be interested in taking the position. Honestly, I did not even know what to think, I was just so blown away. Earlier in the week, I had told my mom just to continue to keep the whole situation in her prayers especially this week. And just the night before I was talking to a friend from school and she had also said she would also be praying about it. Last night before I went to bed I remembered a thought from the book The Prayer of Jabez. One of the things said is to not just to pray but to pray specifically. So I proceeded to pray that a position would open up in either Frontier or T-hall over the summer.
I have always had a special place for Frontier since freshman year. For those of you who are lucky enough to know my hallway (2S holla!) understand how close we still are and how sad we were to leave at the end of the year. I cannot wait to go back. My room will actually be 183, right below where I was freshman year (294), so now I guess its 1S holla!
Before I forget, I wanted to thank all of you who supported me through the process. Especially to Rohde and Dietrich and also Spencer who all opened up their apartments to me as a backup plan. Also Sean who let me have UV as a back up too. And to add to some seniors that I will miss who have helped me through the process: my old CA Peter along with Cara and Spencer again that have guided me from the application to now. I appreciate all your advice and guidance.
Alright, now that I sound like I am giving an acceptance speech at the Grammy's, I have figured its getting late and I need to wake up early...take care
While all this does not sound like that big of a deal, it really was. I am one of those people that really like to plan ahead and have things set up. However, since the start of my sophomore year of college, I have been working on ways to be more spontaneous and easy going. Well, I did not know God was going to put me in a situation where I would be forced to either choose to be in an alternate pool with no gurantees or sign a lease so I would have a place to live next semester. In the end, I choose to stay in the pool and not sign a lease.
Over the last month, I really could not do that much. Nothing I did or said could really get me the position, so I learned to rely on God for the whole thing. It was pretty funny because I was joking with my roommates that they were going to live so far away next year (which they really are), but Hupila would always say, "At least I have a place to live!" Anyways, as of yesterday morning, I have a place to live too!
I received e-mail from the director for Housing and Residential Life telling me there was an opening in Frontier Hall for next year and if I would be interested in taking the position. Honestly, I did not even know what to think, I was just so blown away. Earlier in the week, I had told my mom just to continue to keep the whole situation in her prayers especially this week. And just the night before I was talking to a friend from school and she had also said she would also be praying about it. Last night before I went to bed I remembered a thought from the book The Prayer of Jabez. One of the things said is to not just to pray but to pray specifically. So I proceeded to pray that a position would open up in either Frontier or T-hall over the summer.
I have always had a special place for Frontier since freshman year. For those of you who are lucky enough to know my hallway (2S holla!) understand how close we still are and how sad we were to leave at the end of the year. I cannot wait to go back. My room will actually be 183, right below where I was freshman year (294), so now I guess its 1S holla!
Before I forget, I wanted to thank all of you who supported me through the process. Especially to Rohde and Dietrich and also Spencer who all opened up their apartments to me as a backup plan. Also Sean who let me have UV as a back up too. And to add to some seniors that I will miss who have helped me through the process: my old CA Peter along with Cara and Spencer again that have guided me from the application to now. I appreciate all your advice and guidance.
Alright, now that I sound like I am giving an acceptance speech at the Grammy's, I have figured its getting late and I need to wake up early...take care
Thursday, May 26, 2005
Perspective
Wow...it has kinda been a while since I have written...
For some reason, sometimes, I get some weird perspective that just makes me feel really serious and just wanting to share it with someone. I am not sure if that last sentence makes too much sense, but someone has to agree that at times you just realize something that just makes you sit back and think. I will try to explain the current situation.
So about a month ago or so my sister got in a car accident that totaled her car (don't worry, she is totally fine). Then, the day I was to move back from Minnesota, I found out the car I was supposed to take to Ocean City for the summer has been having some problems so the car wouldn't be very safe to drive long distances. The conclusion of all this: our family needs to get a car. But the car is ultimately going to be my sister's and mine for going to school next year, and by default, because I am older, it is more my car. Anyways, the point of all this jabbering is that my parents are going to be buying me a new car.
Alright, I know what you are thinking, wow, "you are so lucky!" And ya, I totally agree. I am blown away that my parents would just be like we need to get you a car, and lets make sure its kinda nice. They also gave me the freedom to research and find the best deal I thought possible for the car I want. While that sounds easy, it is really tough in a family of six who all have their different opinions and are not afraid to share it and impose it. If any of you know my family, you totally understand what I mean by that previous statement. At the same time, it is really cool to see that especially my oldest brother would take so much time out of his day to help me find a good car.
Anyways, I have been so blessed. But driving home today from my friends house, I realized the extent of this purchase. This may very well be the last car my parents will ever buy for me. And that statement alone leads my mind to wonder about so many other things. I know some of you may have been independent financially from your parents since you were 18. On the other hand, I am not independent. Now don't get me wrong, it is not like I just go out and spend my parent's money. But I started realizing that I do take that for granted and in just a few years I will have to start supporting myself. Wow, I cannot believe it. I feel like I am on this roller coaster ride that is going way to fast and I want it to slow down.
It kinda scares me to think that I will have to become fully independent in a very short period of time. I still am not even completely decided on a major, let alone figuring out where God wants me to be post-graduation! So now I think about something my dad and I were discussing over lunch today. How God is the same God that was there early in my life, and the same God that took me through high school and college. He never changes. To think about that right now is so reassuring and sweet. I know that God will be right there when I graduate and figure out what I need to do.
Well, I have been just rambling forever now about that one thing. I have had a great week. Last night I got the chance to meet up and talk to a girl from high school. It is so cool because I feel we have the coolest relationship because we can go on and not talk for a few months straight but sit down and have a two-hour conversation about serious issues. Anyways, I am totally blessed to have people like her in my life too!
Alright, that is all for now. Less than a week until OC!!!!
For some reason, sometimes, I get some weird perspective that just makes me feel really serious and just wanting to share it with someone. I am not sure if that last sentence makes too much sense, but someone has to agree that at times you just realize something that just makes you sit back and think. I will try to explain the current situation.
So about a month ago or so my sister got in a car accident that totaled her car (don't worry, she is totally fine). Then, the day I was to move back from Minnesota, I found out the car I was supposed to take to Ocean City for the summer has been having some problems so the car wouldn't be very safe to drive long distances. The conclusion of all this: our family needs to get a car. But the car is ultimately going to be my sister's and mine for going to school next year, and by default, because I am older, it is more my car. Anyways, the point of all this jabbering is that my parents are going to be buying me a new car.
Alright, I know what you are thinking, wow, "you are so lucky!" And ya, I totally agree. I am blown away that my parents would just be like we need to get you a car, and lets make sure its kinda nice. They also gave me the freedom to research and find the best deal I thought possible for the car I want. While that sounds easy, it is really tough in a family of six who all have their different opinions and are not afraid to share it and impose it. If any of you know my family, you totally understand what I mean by that previous statement. At the same time, it is really cool to see that especially my oldest brother would take so much time out of his day to help me find a good car.
Anyways, I have been so blessed. But driving home today from my friends house, I realized the extent of this purchase. This may very well be the last car my parents will ever buy for me. And that statement alone leads my mind to wonder about so many other things. I know some of you may have been independent financially from your parents since you were 18. On the other hand, I am not independent. Now don't get me wrong, it is not like I just go out and spend my parent's money. But I started realizing that I do take that for granted and in just a few years I will have to start supporting myself. Wow, I cannot believe it. I feel like I am on this roller coaster ride that is going way to fast and I want it to slow down.
It kinda scares me to think that I will have to become fully independent in a very short period of time. I still am not even completely decided on a major, let alone figuring out where God wants me to be post-graduation! So now I think about something my dad and I were discussing over lunch today. How God is the same God that was there early in my life, and the same God that took me through high school and college. He never changes. To think about that right now is so reassuring and sweet. I know that God will be right there when I graduate and figure out what I need to do.
Well, I have been just rambling forever now about that one thing. I have had a great week. Last night I got the chance to meet up and talk to a girl from high school. It is so cool because I feel we have the coolest relationship because we can go on and not talk for a few months straight but sit down and have a two-hour conversation about serious issues. Anyways, I am totally blessed to have people like her in my life too!
Alright, that is all for now. Less than a week until OC!!!!
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
Back Home...
So I am officially back home in Kenosha..
My parents came and picked me up last Thursday afternoon and we were back home by night. It felt really good to be back. The sinks are deeper, the bathrooms bigger, and the toilet paper softer. It is the total package. Unfortunately I found out that I would not have a car once home because my sister totaled one and the other one was in the shop.
On Friday morning we flew to New York for an Engagement Party. Alright, I have been asked this a million times, why are you going to an engagement? Here is the low down. In the Indian Community, when someone gets married, they throw a huge engagement ceremony, usually at the bride's hometown. Then the wedding usually ends up at the groom's hometown. In this case, the bride was from New York and the groom was from Chicago. So my whole family flew to New York on Friday and flew back on Saturday afternoon. That's right, a total of about 23 hours in NY!
I finally got to meet up with some friends from high school on Sunday night. It was nice to see a lot of the guys again. I also met up with one my closest family friends. He has been one of the most influential people in my life and also our entire family. It was nice to get some advice on things that I had questions about and have a bit more clarity for the future.
Monday was so great because I finally just got to be plain out lazy. I slept until about 11:30 and basically roamed around the house all day. I did go out and cut the grass, which was pretty intense. Other than that, I was lucky enough to catch my sister's last Powder Puff game that was good but pretty boring. No one scored until the last play of the game with 14 seconds left on the clock. It was unbelievable (that’s not a good unbelievable either).
Over the last few days I have had the opportunity to hang out with my Appachen and Ammachi a whole lot (Grandpa and Grandma in English). It is such a blast just hanging out with them because they know so much. I made breakfast with my Ammachi this morning, which was such a good time. Banana, Chocolate Chip pancakes, always a big hit. Also, my grandparents filled me in on the way they grew up and how they ever came to be in the U.S. It is such a great story, truly a work of God. Just over the last few days, I have learned to appreciate how lucky I am to be where I am.
And finally, here is the biggest news of the week, if you already do not know. I am in a hunt for a NEW DIGITAL CAMERA! Yes, that is right. If you already do not know, I LOVE taking pictures and usually have my camera with me. However, the last few weeks of school I have been slacking because my camera has been acting up. So, my brothers said they would pitch in and help me get a new one. Wow, am I pumped. However, now I am on a frantic search to find the PERFECT camera. I don't know which one I want. Alright, for those of you who are digital camera savvy, here is what I am looking at. The Panasonic DMZ-FZ5, Olympus C-770 UZ, and the Kodak Z740. If any of you have any insight on these cameras in specific or the companies themselves, which would be great.
Other than that, I am meeting up with a few friends tonight for dinner. I am thinking about bringing my book of questions. For those of you who know about the book, you know that it is an instant good time. I cannot believe that two weeks from now I will be heading out to Ocean City!
My parents came and picked me up last Thursday afternoon and we were back home by night. It felt really good to be back. The sinks are deeper, the bathrooms bigger, and the toilet paper softer. It is the total package. Unfortunately I found out that I would not have a car once home because my sister totaled one and the other one was in the shop.
On Friday morning we flew to New York for an Engagement Party. Alright, I have been asked this a million times, why are you going to an engagement? Here is the low down. In the Indian Community, when someone gets married, they throw a huge engagement ceremony, usually at the bride's hometown. Then the wedding usually ends up at the groom's hometown. In this case, the bride was from New York and the groom was from Chicago. So my whole family flew to New York on Friday and flew back on Saturday afternoon. That's right, a total of about 23 hours in NY!
I finally got to meet up with some friends from high school on Sunday night. It was nice to see a lot of the guys again. I also met up with one my closest family friends. He has been one of the most influential people in my life and also our entire family. It was nice to get some advice on things that I had questions about and have a bit more clarity for the future.
Monday was so great because I finally just got to be plain out lazy. I slept until about 11:30 and basically roamed around the house all day. I did go out and cut the grass, which was pretty intense. Other than that, I was lucky enough to catch my sister's last Powder Puff game that was good but pretty boring. No one scored until the last play of the game with 14 seconds left on the clock. It was unbelievable (that’s not a good unbelievable either).
Over the last few days I have had the opportunity to hang out with my Appachen and Ammachi a whole lot (Grandpa and Grandma in English). It is such a blast just hanging out with them because they know so much. I made breakfast with my Ammachi this morning, which was such a good time. Banana, Chocolate Chip pancakes, always a big hit. Also, my grandparents filled me in on the way they grew up and how they ever came to be in the U.S. It is such a great story, truly a work of God. Just over the last few days, I have learned to appreciate how lucky I am to be where I am.
And finally, here is the biggest news of the week, if you already do not know. I am in a hunt for a NEW DIGITAL CAMERA! Yes, that is right. If you already do not know, I LOVE taking pictures and usually have my camera with me. However, the last few weeks of school I have been slacking because my camera has been acting up. So, my brothers said they would pitch in and help me get a new one. Wow, am I pumped. However, now I am on a frantic search to find the PERFECT camera. I don't know which one I want. Alright, for those of you who are digital camera savvy, here is what I am looking at. The Panasonic DMZ-FZ5, Olympus C-770 UZ, and the Kodak Z740. If any of you have any insight on these cameras in specific or the companies themselves, which would be great.
Other than that, I am meeting up with a few friends tonight for dinner. I am thinking about bringing my book of questions. For those of you who know about the book, you know that it is an instant good time. I cannot believe that two weeks from now I will be heading out to Ocean City!
Thursday, May 12, 2005
The End...
Well, there it goes, my sophomore year of college is over...
I have realized I get really sentimental about almost everything, so I think this little post will be purely a reflection.
It started hitting me today that tomorrow I will be back home again. The roommates I have been with for the last year will no longer be there. The apartment I am used to will be gone. Do not get be wrong at all, I love home, but still, it is just different. I was reflecting on how our roommate situation even came together. Towards the end of my freshman year, one of my roommates, Matt Hupila, and I were trying to figure out where to live. For about a month period, we had about seven different roommates who eventually all backed out on us. However, in the end, the group that was formed was pretty great. There were two guys we barely knew, Matt Hegar and Mark Anderson, and a guy I just met towards the end of freshman year, Travis Kluthe. Hupila and I really did not know what to expect. We really only knew each other. But looking back on the year now, it really was a pretty dynamic combination. Each of us brought something different to the table but we got along extremely well. I was just so surprised how laid back everything was, but at the same time, things got done. I learned a lot about myself this past year by being surrounded by people who had such different views as me. It was such a great thing, and I will really miss that this summer.
Tonight was also Lindsay Greco's birthday! I love how my hallway from freshman year works. We have always been known as "2 S" and I am proud to be a part of it. Some how, some way, we find a way to get together. I think the greatest part of our hallway was how open people were. Every time I am with the hallway, I instantly feel comfortable and able to speak my mind. It is such a great environment. I think all of us from the hallway would agree that we totally miss that environment. Again, the reason it was so great is that everyone brought something different to the table that really opened up great conversations and some funny times. One of my favorite moments was "The Prank" Evan K., Kevin, the Big O, Hupila, Shwa, and many others planned for months. It was a genius idea to use the wireless technology of a keyboard to scare the heck out of one of our friends, the unfortunate Taylor. While it was unfortunate we brought her to tears, we knew she wouldn't be mad at us and it was just a great time. Props to Taylor and the other girls in the hallway for putting up with us.
Before I forget, I wanted to give the guys in the Sanford Study a big thank you for taking Go and I out for dinner. Guys, that was really great and unexpected (even though I got an e-mail telling me the plan!) I really appreciate the thoughtfulness and will say it one last time. This year has been huge for me, I think I learned more from you guys then what I taught you. Your love for the people around you and each other is unbelievable. You guys truly blew me away and I love each of you for what you brought to study. Wow, here is a reoccurring theme, it was just dynamic to see how different each of you were, but how well you all got along. I cannot wait to see what God does in your lives!!
Other than that, I have probably spent a good 4 hours in the past 10 hours cleaning up the apartment. It being close to four in the morning, I am going to call it a day. Take care all!
I have realized I get really sentimental about almost everything, so I think this little post will be purely a reflection.
It started hitting me today that tomorrow I will be back home again. The roommates I have been with for the last year will no longer be there. The apartment I am used to will be gone. Do not get be wrong at all, I love home, but still, it is just different. I was reflecting on how our roommate situation even came together. Towards the end of my freshman year, one of my roommates, Matt Hupila, and I were trying to figure out where to live. For about a month period, we had about seven different roommates who eventually all backed out on us. However, in the end, the group that was formed was pretty great. There were two guys we barely knew, Matt Hegar and Mark Anderson, and a guy I just met towards the end of freshman year, Travis Kluthe. Hupila and I really did not know what to expect. We really only knew each other. But looking back on the year now, it really was a pretty dynamic combination. Each of us brought something different to the table but we got along extremely well. I was just so surprised how laid back everything was, but at the same time, things got done. I learned a lot about myself this past year by being surrounded by people who had such different views as me. It was such a great thing, and I will really miss that this summer.
Tonight was also Lindsay Greco's birthday! I love how my hallway from freshman year works. We have always been known as "2 S" and I am proud to be a part of it. Some how, some way, we find a way to get together. I think the greatest part of our hallway was how open people were. Every time I am with the hallway, I instantly feel comfortable and able to speak my mind. It is such a great environment. I think all of us from the hallway would agree that we totally miss that environment. Again, the reason it was so great is that everyone brought something different to the table that really opened up great conversations and some funny times. One of my favorite moments was "The Prank" Evan K., Kevin, the Big O, Hupila, Shwa, and many others planned for months. It was a genius idea to use the wireless technology of a keyboard to scare the heck out of one of our friends, the unfortunate Taylor. While it was unfortunate we brought her to tears, we knew she wouldn't be mad at us and it was just a great time. Props to Taylor and the other girls in the hallway for putting up with us.
Before I forget, I wanted to give the guys in the Sanford Study a big thank you for taking Go and I out for dinner. Guys, that was really great and unexpected (even though I got an e-mail telling me the plan!) I really appreciate the thoughtfulness and will say it one last time. This year has been huge for me, I think I learned more from you guys then what I taught you. Your love for the people around you and each other is unbelievable. You guys truly blew me away and I love each of you for what you brought to study. Wow, here is a reoccurring theme, it was just dynamic to see how different each of you were, but how well you all got along. I cannot wait to see what God does in your lives!!
Other than that, I have probably spent a good 4 hours in the past 10 hours cleaning up the apartment. It being close to four in the morning, I am going to call it a day. Take care all!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
