Hi Lo Ha La!

Hi

I took my last final for the semester on Thursday. I'm still waiting on my grade but hoping I pulled of an A. I really enjoy parts of grad school and really disliked other parts. I'm very thankful for a summer break.

Lo

My Nana went into the hospital on Tuesday and had surgery to remove 2 feet of her colon on Thursday. She had this same surgery almost 3 years ago. It has been a week of ups and downs with her health but she is doing really well now. She could still use your prayers though!

Ha

Saturday night I got to see girlfriends from high school and college. We try to get together every few months and we always have a great time catching up and laughing together.

La

I'm looking forward to Life Hurts God Heals graduation next Tuesday night. We have 29 graduates and 7 others who were involved. Graduation is always a great night, students have a great opportunity to share what God has done and is doing in their lives. It's always a bitter-sweet for me. It's nice to have a break and to get refreshed but I miss the atmosphere and the just seeing all of them on a regular basis.

I'm back!

Welcome back!  I've been totally out of the blog world for at least a month now!  I was on death row.  Not the prison death row but the sickness death row.  About 3 weeks ago I started feeling a little under-the-weather.  I went to the doctor and was diagnosed with Bronchitis.  After 3 medications and a shot...I was still sick.  I went back to the doctor and the Bronchitis had progressed into Pneumonia.  I was pretty miserable.  I did nothing but watching tv and sit/sleep in my recliner for a solid 10 days.  After three visits to the doctors office and 6 medications later, I am finally feeling better.  I'm not 100% yet but I'm hoping to get there by next week.

American Idol - Top 7 (Week 2)

Disco Week

Lil - "I'm Every Woman"

I do feel sorry for Lil.  Her song was fun but nothing original. She hasn't proved herself on the stage in a while.  She just seems so sad after every performance.  I think that's caused her to lose her fan base.  She should be glad she's made it this far and that she's touring!

Kris - "She Works Hard For The Money"

I haven't typically been a Kris fan, but tonight I was all about it!  I loved the arrangement and loved the band around him.  I don't always like the instruments but it all went together so well. Props to Kris for pulling it off!

Danny - "September"

I love Earth, Wind, & Fire and I still love DANNY!!!  He looked good tonight with his scruffy face!  HOLLER!  His dancing skills have definitely improved since the beginning of the show. He has a great time every time he's on the stage.  He has definitely been a solid performer the whole time.

Allison - "Hot Stuff"

Ever since the judges mention that she reminded them of Kelly Clarkson, I see it all the time.  Allison did well.  I didn't know the song or I just didn't recognize it from the arrangement.  I don't know that Allison can win the whole thing but she is extremely talented!

Adam - "If I Can't Have You"

I'm still warming up to Adam.  He's a little weird but the boy is crazy talented.  I loved his performance tonight.  You never know what you're going to get, it'll either be an incredible ballad or a crazy screaming thing.  I'm still not sure which type of artist he really is because he is good at everything.

Matt - "Stayin' Alive"

I do like Matt!  He's fun and always has a great time on stage.  I think he was trying to pull off a Justin Timberlake tonight.  I don't think he had the best performance but he showed his range throughout the whole song.  I'm so glad they saved him last week!

Anoop - "Dim All The Lights"

I didn't know this song either.  Anoop did alright, it wasn't bad but it wasn't brilliant either.  The last note sounded strange to me too.  He can sing but Anoop will probably be headed home within the next week or two.  Anoop may be headed home this week.

My Top 2

Adam

Danny

My Middle 3

Allison

Kris

Matt

My Bottom 2

Anoop

Lil

American Idol - Top 7

Music From The Movies

Allison - "I Don't Want To Miss A Thing"

Probably my favorite "movie song" of all time!  Allison totally made the song her own and I enjoyed the arrangement for the most part.  It wasn't my favorite performance of hers but I think she did quite well.

Anoop - "Everything I Do, I Do For You"

Oh Mariko, did you feel like Anoop was singing just for you???   I think this was an awesome song choice for Anoop.  The arrangement wasn't much different from the original but I really enjoyed it.  He actually did great 2 weeks in a row!  WHAT WHAT, ANOOP!  

Adam - "Born To Be Wild"

As creepy as Adam can be sometimes, the boy is crazy talented.  It's complete entertainment when he comes on the stage.  He is definitely a rock star!  The last note was insane too...WOW! 

Matt - "Have You Ever Really Loved A Woman"

I love when Matt plays the piano!   The song was a little shaky at parts.  Matt has slowly moved up into my favs but tonight wasn't his night.  I agreed with Randy that he tried to go over the top with the lyrics and his range.  I hope he gets another chance next week.

Danny - "Endless Love"

I think I officially fell in love with Danny tonight.  I know I've been talking about how much I like him but tonight he just swept me off my feet! :)  It wasn't his best song tonight but I think he pulled it off by the end.  He looked so strange without his glasses tonight!

Kris - "Falling Slowly"

I was really impressed with Kris tonight!  I'm glad he decided to sing without the guitar, I think it would have taken away from the emotions coming through the song.  He did a great job tonight, definitely my favorite song of his by far.  

Lil - "The Rose"

Once again, Lil did alright but didn't impress me.  I have had high expectations for her from the beginning and I'm not sure why.  Lil is talented but I doubt she'll survive much long on AI.  She just stood in the same spot and sang.  I didn't get much emotion out of her either.

This was a really hard week to rank the contestants.  It's getting a lot tighter and there are a lot of people I think should stay around.  I do hope Lil goes home tomorrow night.  My guess is that if it's someone besides Lil, the judges will use the save tomorrow night!

Top 6

Adam

Anoop

Danny

Kris

Allison

Matt

Bottom 1 

Lil

American Idol - Top 8

Danny - "Stand By Me"

I kept waiting for Danny to break out into song and when he did I broke out into chair dancing.  I cannot wait to see him at the AI concert!  I will definitely be screaming like a crazy woman.  I did agree that the arrangement was a little strange but he pulled it out!

Kris - "All She Wants To Do I Dance"

I did not like that they put Kris is the middle of 100 girls.  That seems a little over the top to me.  I also think he was faking the guitar tonight.  Kris was okay but he didn't impress me tonight.  Dancing was not all I wanted to do...

Lil - "What's Love Got To Do With It"

I really liked the chorus but the verses were a little strung out for me.  Lil is talented but it seems that every week I hope for a little more than I actually get.  She didn't blow me away but she did alright.  I did feel sorry for her...I would cry if judges were disappointed in me too.

Anoop - "True Colors"

Anoop was definitely dressed for Easter Sunday, he even looked a bit like an Easter egg.  I really liked Anoop this week.  I just wish he could be consistent week after week.  I never know what I'm going to get.  Hopefully, he'll continue to go up from here.

Scott - "The Search Is Over"

Scott creeped me out a little tonight in his intro.  I'm really beginning to get tired of Scott.  He seems to be a wonderful person but just not my type of artist.  He was off tonight and has been off several weeks in a row.  His song 

was strange all together especially the high notes.

Allison - "I Can't Make You Love Me"

I think I've said this before but I'll say it again, I've never really liked the younger contestants on AI but I love Allison.  She has such an incredible stage presence for a 16-year-old.  Her voice is so distinct and can go from one extreme to the other with ease.  She really does remind me of Kelly Clarkson, so I was glad Randy said that tonight.

Matt - "Part-Time Lovers"

Matt rocked it tonight.  I really couldn't take my eyes of the screen.  I just wanted to watch his dancing skills.  He was really entertaining and fun.  At one point, they panned out and show Paula dancing "on" Simon and that was a little awkward for me but he was awesome.  I hope that he gets a bigger fan base.  I think Matt definitely deserves to stick around.  If he does get the lowest vote this week..."The Save" had better be used.

Adam-"????"

The show ran over the scheduled time so my DVR cut off before I even knew what Adam sang.  I tried to find it on YouTube but had no luck.  What are your thoughts?  Where does Adam belong this week?

Top 4

Matt

Danny 

Anoop

Allison

I couldn't decide between Anoop and Allison and without hearing Adam...I decided to go with a Top 4 this week.

Bottom 3

Kris

Lil

Scott

Hi-Lo-Ha-La

Hi
This week I was able to recharge on all different levels. I got some much needed rest and some much needed Jesus time. It's always good to be filled!

Lo
I'm in an Addiction class and my professor is pretty bad. He's never taught before and has very little organization skills. I was really looking forward to the class but feel like I'm wasting 3 1/2 hours of my life every Thursday night. We have our first test this week and I have no idea what to study.

Ha
One of the pastors on staff pulled an April Fools Day prank on his 3 daughter by sending out a newsletter saying that the Jonas Brothers were coming in concert to our church. To make it more real, he told them they needed to RSVP to me. Once his girls figured it out, they sent it on to their friends. Five days later, I still have students (& parents) calling asking if it's possible to get backstage. It has been really funny until I have to let them down.

La
I'm headed to Colorado and am looking forward to spending time with Jess and Erin. I was a little bummed when I realized it was Easter weekend because I love my church services but I'm hoping to experience a sunrise service in the mountains. We'll see!

Jaci's Favorite Things #1

I wish I were like Oprah and could give people all of my favorite things. I love when I find something that I love.

Favorite Thing #1
Tide-t0-Go is a miracle in itself. Approximately 95% percent of my shirts have stains on them because I drop food on myself 95% of the time. I keep one of these in my car, one in my desk drawer, and one in my purse. They come in really handy. It's like magic and who doesn't like a good disappearing act.

Favorite Thing #2

Another great invention for clothes is Downy Wrinkle Release. I first heard of this from my friend Stefanie. I'm addicted to the stuff. It's another incredible magic trick. You spray your clothes, tug them a little and BAM your wrinkles are gone. I had my mom buy some on my last trip to Corpus and I'm surprised she hasn't tried to use it on her skin yet.

Favorite Thing #3

I love the new Fiber One bars. I can't decide which is better, the chocolate or the peanut butter. They are SO delicious! 9 grams of fiber and only 2 weight watchers points. As Dora would say, "Muy Delicioso!"

These are all inexpensive Favorite Things! If you haven't tried them, do! Then you can thank me for making your life easier and yummier!

American Idol - Top 9

If you went to the show, what would your sign say?  I think mine would say "I'll do the Hokey Pokey to get with Gokey!"  

Anoop-"Caught Up"

Usher is my crush and Anoop didn't give him justice tonight.  I love the song but I did not love his version.  I also thought his facial expressions expressed constipation.  I never know what I'm going to get with Anoop.  Sometimes I love him, sometimes I don't.

Megan-"Turn Your Lights Down Low"

Megan, Oh, Megan!  I really like Megan but I do think she should be in the bottom 3.  She's inconsistent and I don't know that she can really sing.  Sometimes it just sounds like she's talking funny when she sings.  

Danny-"What Hurts The Most"

I love me some Rascal Flatts and I love me some Danny.  The song is so powerful and Danny did are great job of making it his own.  I agreed that it was his best performance so far.  I put my right hand in, I put my right out...

Allison-"Don't Speak"

The past 2 weeks I've been waiting for her to "bring it" and she hasn't.  She's good but not as great as I have hoped.  I don't know why they talked about her outfit so much.  She is a 16-year-old...that's what high schoolers wear.

Scott-"Just The Way You Are"

Maybe it's the style of music that Scott sings but I am just not interested.  I haven't really like him since Hollywood Week.  It's true that he is talented on the piano but I hope he heads home soon.

Matt-"You Found Me"

I didn't think Matt should have been in the bottom 3 last week but this week he may deserve to be there.  He didn't make the song his own and I agree that the song choice was bad.  He goes back and forth and I don't know what type of music he really wants to sing.

Lil-"I Surrender"

I've never heard this song before.  I'm not sure how it's a top downloaded song but I'll go with it.  It wasn't the best song choice for Lil but she did pretty well.  I always like songs that I know better than ones I don't.  I hope she stays around so I can see more of what she's got.

Adam-"Play That Funky Music"

Adam is definitely a great performer.  I have a hard time with his style and personality though.  I like him but at the same time I don't.  Most people seem to like him a lot and I'm sure he'll go to the final 2 or 3.

Kris-"Ain't No Sunshine"

Kris wanted to have a moment and I think he has a little moment but not a huge memorable one for me.  He's definitely talented and he did do a good job.  I liked seeing him behind the keyboard for a change too.

Top 3

Danny

Kris

Adam

Middle 3

Matt

Anoop

Allison

Bottom 3

Lil

Scott

Megan

This week was hard for me, a few of the contestants could be flipped around but I think that Megan and Scott should definitely be the bottom 2 this week.

Self-Defense

I took a self-defense class with my friends Stefanie and Holly. We are offering a class to our students and wanted to show them some of our skills.  Enjoy!

P.S. I really could kill you...don't mess me with!

American Idol - Top 10

THE MUSIC OF MOTOWN - Berry Gordy and Smokey Robinson

Smokey Robinson looks good for a 69-year-old!  Seriously he must be doing something right.  He's a hot old guy!

Matt - "Let's Get It On"

I really liked Matt this week.  I loved that he started out at the piano and moved to the rest of the stage.  He did a great job and he has really started to stand out among the crowd.  I hope he gets to stay around for awhile!

Kris - "How Sweet It Is"

I noticed that Kris sings out of the side of his mouth and sometimes that bothers me but he is definitely talented.  I loved his song choice and think he is definitely a favorite among the ladies.  I liked him more tonight than I ever have before.  He kind of looks like John Mayer too!

Scott - "You Can't Hurry Love"

This has always been on of my favorite songs since I was a kid.  I love watching Scott play the piano but he still isn't impressing me with his singing.  He's not bad but he's not incredible either.  He doesn't stand out to me, it's just a little blah for me.

Megan - "For Once In My Life"

Megan sounded a lot better when she was practicing with Smokey.  She did not do well tonight.  I usually love her jazzy voice but it just was not there tonight.  She sounded off throughout the whole song.  She was definitely gorgeous tonight though!  I hope she gets to stay around and prove herself.  I don't think she should be on votefortheworst.com either!

Anoop - "Ooh Baby Baby"

Anoop did a pretty good job.  I do wish he would have done something a little more fun or creative.  I agree with Simon that he did a good job but he looked have asleep.  I like seeing his personality when he sings and it just missing for me tonight.

Michael - "Ain't Too Proud To Beg"

He's just a cute guy.  I love that he smiles so much when he sings, you can tell he's having a great time on the stage.  I think Michael did a better job tonight than the judges thought.  I do agree that he won't make it to the end but I don't know that he was the worst tonight.

BREAK TIME

Sometimes I feel like the judges make comments just to influence America.  I'm sure they do that but I wonder if it's something they actually plan.

Lil - "Heatwave"

I had big expectations for her tonight and I was a little let down.  She did a good job but could have done much better with another song.  Her outfit and hair were perfect for the song though!  Simon was actually a lot nicer than I thought he would be.

Adam - "The Tracks Of My Tears"

I thought I'd never be a fan but he made me one tonight.  I didn't even recognize Adam tonight.  He did an incredible job on the song.  He showed a side that I never knew he had in him.  

Danny - "Get Ready"

I cannot say it enough!  I LOVE DANNY GOKEY!  He's an awesome performer and has such a great time on the stage.  I like he raspy voice too!  He's just fun.  I think I'm becoming a little bias about Danny...but it's my blog so I can be. :)

Allison - "Papa Was A Rolling Stone"

I had pretty high expectations for Allison tonight too.  She did a really good job tonight!  I still can't believe that she is only 16.  I hope she isn't in the bottom 3 this week because she does not deserve it!  

Top 3

Adam

Danny

Allison

Middle 4

Matt

Kris

Anoop

Lil

Bottom 3

Michael

Scott

Megan

P.S.  Did anyone else notice Paula's fairy costume she was wearing tonight?  AND what was the deal with the mustache at the end?

American Idol - Top 11

Grand Ole Opry Week!  

Michael - I've always loved Ain't Going Down til the Sun Comes Up.  It's a fun song and Michael did an okay job with the song but it didn't do much for me.  I like his personality but don't think he'll be around more than a couple more weeks.

Allison - Okay I love this girl!  She is the only youngin' that I've ever really liked on the show.  She's cute, she's fun, and she's definitely got the funk. 

Chris - Pretty boy has a pretty voice but he hasn't really impressed me yet.  He just sat on a stool and sang a love song to all the teenie-boppers.  Simon just liked him because it wasn't real country music.  Come on Chris, give us a little more.  He'll stick around because of all the girls.

Lil - Independence Day should have been taken off the list after Carrie Underwood sang it on Season 4.  It's definitely a well-known country song but Carrie just blew everyone away when she sang it.  Lil did alright but she didn't impress me either.  Country just isn't her thing.

Adam - OH MY!  Randy Travis makes me laugh.  I love Johnny Cash so maybe it was the middle-eastern thing or something but I hated it.  That is not country...it was more like CREEPY.  Simon totally made me laugh because he said what I was thinking.  Boo Adam Boo!  

Scott - I'm still not a Scott fan.  I do think he did better this week than last but I wouldn't rush out (or turtle walk) to buy his cd.  He's ok and I think he'll get vote but everything he does is pretty safe.  I agree that he needs to "up his game" and I may like him more.

Alexis - I think that she needs to visit a counselor.  It seems like she has a lot of built up anger.  Maybe I'll offer her my services.  She's wasn't entertaining tonight.  I actually fast-forwarded through the middle of it.  

Danny - I LOVE THIS MAN!  He is so authentic and real.  Seriously...I cannot even express in words how much I like him.  I'm so glad he loves Jesus!  

Anoop - He got my attention tonight.  He shows such great emotion when he sings.  I really enjoyed his performance and am actually glad he got another week to sing!  Anoop stepped it up and did AWESOME!  

Megan - I've always loved this song.  My first love actually sang this to me a church camp on summer.  I know it's dorky but I was 15 and in completely in love. :)  Megan did pretty well for being sick. I hope she sticks around for a few more weeks at least.  How did she get through that song without coughing...when she kept coughing at the end???

Matt - I actually forget about him every week then I see him and he's really good.  I just can't remember him from week to week.  I hope he stays awhile because I do like him, I just want him hear more.

Simon and I were definitely on the same page tonight.  I agreed with all but one or two of his comments.  I didn't like Danny's wardrobe.   I did think that Anoop went from zero to hero.  His comment about Adam's song choice.  I've loved it all!

My Top 3

Allison

Danny

Anoop

My Bottom 3

Adam

Alexis

Lil

Unfair expectations

Recently, I realized that the music I listened to as a child has harmed me. My mom was and sadly still is a die hard Billy Joel, Lionel Richie, and Rod Stewart fan. I think if she had to choose, she'd stick with Rod. Car rides were filled with this music and I as a 5-year-old became a fan as well.
I always thought I would be an uptown girl. I expected to live in an uptown world. I never had a back street guy (unless you count my love for the Backstreet boys) and my mama never told me why. I've been living in my white bread world as long as any hot blood could BUT I'm still looking for my downtown man.

Another song I loved as a child came from Lionel... Say you, say me, say it for always, that's the way it should be. Say you, say me, say it together, naturally. I HAD A DREAM, I HAD AN AWESOME DREAM...

NO, NO I did not Lionel. You and Billy both gave me unfair expections about life and love.

P.S. I never thought Rod Stewart was sexy, I never wanted his body and I never wanted to tell him so. Just wanted to throw that out there...

Glasses

I had never been to the eye doctor before last week.  Apparently, my parents neglected me because I should have gone a long time ago!  I'm starting to get used to them and can definitely see better!  Here are my specs!  

The new rule...

...The Judge's Save!  WHAT?!  I do hate that the contestant has to sing then has one more opportunity to be rejected.  Come on American Idol...don't be cruel.  I wasn't a huge fan of Jasmine so I'm glad the save wasn't used on her but still hate to see a girl cry.  

Kanye is one of the cockiest people ever.  He did a horrible job tonight.  I like his song on the radio but his performance was just really bad.  Kelly did great!  I love when they bring back past contestants.  It's cool to see how far they have come.

I'm glad Jorge is going home.  I like him but don't think he's as talented as some of the other contestants.  It was definitely his time to go.

American Idol - Top 13

I'm going to do my best to give a personal recap of American Idol every week.  I may not compliment the actual singing, but believe me comments will be made.  

I'm not a big Michael Jackson fan but I really did love the selections.  I'm also not a fan of Kara, maybe she'll grow on me.  Simon is Simon.  I would love to see Paula fall of the stage when she jumps up and starts dancing.  Randy is my Dawg, he usually says exactly what I'm thinking.  

Maybe Melissa from The Bachelor will start singing and show up on American Idol since she's on every other reality show now.

Lil - First of all, is that her real name?  I do hope big shoulder ruffles come back in style.  I have a few shirts in my closet I'd love to wear.  She started off the show well and so far I like her.

Scott - I think he is talented but not extraordinary.  I don't like that the judges are all about his disability.  An individual should come before their disability.  I think he'll probably make the Top 8 but I doubt he'll go farther.  

Danny - I really like him and yes, a lot of it has to do with the fact that he loves Jesus.  I  like that he's a little funky.  He is crazy talented!  Simon made fun of his dance moves...but I thought they were awesome.  He is who he is and I hope that people can see Jesus shining through him.

Michael - I like him too!  It seems like he is a hard worker and really proud of where he has come from.  He's married...but out of everyone, he's my type! :)  He didn't have the best vocal but I think he has a ton of potential!

Jasmine - I love the young ones (minus David Arculetta, I never liked him) but I never want them to win.  I think it's because I feel like the older ones deserve it more.  I'm not sure why...just my own logic.  I doubt she'll make it very far.  I also think her mom looks a little like a love child of Michael Jackson and Paula...strange.

Breaktime - Because I'm a reality tv junkie, I like a little drama.  I wish we knew a little more about their relationships with each other.  I'm sure someone doesn't like someone and that someone is interested in someone.  I wish I knew these things.  I know I'm nosy but at least I admit it.

Kris - I've been to his hometown countless times.  Conway is a tiny town in Arkansas where my youth pastor grew up.  I liked Kris and I thought he had some potential but don't think he showed much tonight.  It is nice that he helped everyone else out.  He wins the servant of the week award.  His poor wife...Simon says dumb things....she's so cute and I feel bad for her.

Allison - I can't believe she is 16.  She's so young.  I hope she doesn't just sing rocker music.  Maybe that's what she wants to do.  If so, I'm not really interested.  iI like her hair and her raspy voice though.

Anoop - He seems like a guy I'd be friends with.  He's funny and very entertaining.  It was a little karaoke-ish.  He didn't do very well this week but I hope that he gets to stay around.  I really think he can do much better.  

Jorge - I love his hair...the curls are great!  He seems real genuine and so proud of his country and family.  I don't think he'll last long though.  He's got the fun accent and a great story but I'm just not sure people will vote for him.

Megan - I immediately loved her during auditions.  I cried when they showed her missing her sweet, little boy.  My first tears of the season are for Megan.  She's fun and cute and has a lot of personality.  One question, "Did she really kaw at the end?"  I'm excited to see what she does in the upcoming weeks because she'll definitely be around.

Adam - I'm not all about boys who paint their nails but he did a great job.  He was really entertaining and fun.  I'm sure Adam will be around for a long time.  I hope that he can work with all the different genres AI does.  

Matt - Another one who I think has some great potential.  I really like his voice and his piano skills.  Most of the music I really love and listen to is what I think he is best at.  Hopefully he'll be around for a few more weeks too!

Alexis - She's okay, not awesome but not bad either.  I'm not sure what I think about her yet.  I think she definitely wants to sing and she has a powerful voice.  Maybe she needs a little more experience on the stage.  

My Picks

Top 2 (I can't pick a 3rd...I just thought they were way above everyone else.)

Danny

Adam

Bottom 3

Scott

Jorge

Anoop (sorry Mariko, I like him...but bad song choice!)

 

56 pages later

I really liked college.  I loved the feeling I got when I finished a test that I knew I did well on.  I loved the feeling I got when I turned a paper in.  It's like this huge burden that is completely lifted and gone.  I can't do anymore thinking or editing or anything...it's done!  

So far, graduate school has been different than my undergrad.  I'm not as much of a procrastinator as I used to be and I think I'm stressing about it more too.  It seems like it should be the other way around.  Maybe it's because my grad classes are really important to me and I want to do well because I want to be the best counselor I can be.  

As I turn my 56 pages in and do my group presentation and my individual presentation tonight I hope I get that feeling back.  I hope to have a great sense of accomplishment and I hope that my professor actually likes what I wrote.  I'm a little nervous about that.  We'll find out soon enough!

More like my mom

I was in the grocery store last night and I started talking to the person in front of me at the checkout. It was then that it hit me....I am becoming my mother. People say that it happens but I have vowed since middle school that I would never be like her.

It's not that I don't love my mom...I really do! I just didn't want to be like her. She is crazy, she is ridiculously embarrasing, and she's loud! You who are reading this are probably thinking....yes, Jaci, you are these things but just last night I realized it for myself.

My mom talks to strangers every where she goes. So do I. My mom sings and dances in her car. So do I. My mom talks to herself. So do I. My mom tells true life crazy stories. So do I. There are so many things that she does that I now do. It's scary but true.

Hi-Lo-Ha-La

Hi
Last weekend was our Student Ministries' Retreat. I always look forward to it because it's not as long and exhausting as camp but it's so much more fun than anything else. At times, I feel like I'm running around with my head cut off but it's definitely worth it! I loved spending time with our students and youth workers. We ended retreat on Sunday morning by coming back for a special service at our church. We had a spontaneous baptism service that was incredible. It was like nothing I have ever experienced before. God was present and moving throughout the sanctuary like I've never felt before. All together we had 174 people baptized! How amazing is that?! I just cried and cried...then I would run out of tears...then I would cry and cry. Several of our pastors were baptized and a couple of them even got to baptize their own children. They're were couples and entire families that were baptized together. It's really indescribable, but I felt the presence of God like never before.

Lo
I have so much school work to do it's crazy. I have 10-2 page papers, 1-5 page paper, 1-10 page paper, 2-class presentations and I'm sure a few other things that I haven't even thought of yet. I'm just tired of school and it's only my first grad class. I'm enjoying the classes, I really am. It's a sociocultural class and that can be difficult because we talk about a lot of racial issues. Last week there were 3 people in tears trying to "prove" that they weren't racist. It's an emotionally exhausting class. I'm defintely ready to turn in everything and move to the next thing.

Ha
I honestly can't think of a good ha this week...come on readers, make me laugh!

La
This goes back to my Lo but I'm just looking forward to turning in everything for my class. I'm ready to be done with this anxiety stuff...school is not cool.

My 2 loves...DVR and reality t.v.

I admit that I am a reality t.v. junkie.  I love prank shows.  I love game shows.  I love dating shows.  I love talent shows.  I LOVE REALITY TV.  I hate admitting this because I know some people will look down on me, but I'm all about honesty!  You have to step out of denial and into reality!  Now I know that some people believe that reality t.v. is not real...to you people I say, I DON'T CARE!  I STILL LOVE IT!

My top 10 favorite reality shows (@ the moment):

10. Survivor 

9. The Amazing Race

8. Road Rules/Real World Challenge

7. The City

6. The Hills

5. Howie Do It

4. Jon & Kate plus 8

3. The Biggest Loser

2. American Idol

1. The Bachelor

There are shows that I don't like, don't get me wrong there are some BAD reality shows.  I just love seeing people go for their dreams and to be honest I love seeing crazy people.  It's true entertainment for me!

Just last week, I joined the world of cable t.v and DVR.  My life will be forever changed. I've only had it for 6 days but DVR gets my award for the best invention of this century.  I don't have a lot of time to watch t.v. but man when I do...it's just me and my DVR.

Hi-Lo-Ha-La in Dallas #3

Hi

Jamie did a fun photo shoot of Mariko and I before we departed Dallas.  I'm sure pictures will be coming soon!  We had a great time playing on the train tracks!

Lo

I loved being with the girls and was sad to get in the car and drive 3 hours home.  

Ha

As I was climbing down off an old train car, I bit it.  I didn't realize how far down I had to go.  I jumped then fell.  It all happened so fast that I didn't have time to check to see if I was hurt or not.  Thankfully nothing dislocated!

La

This weekend is our Student Ministries retreat.  It will be busy at work but definitely worth it.  Retreat is always one of my favorite events of the year!

Hi-Lo-Ha-La in Dallas #2

Hi

We crammed as much into one day as possible.  This morning we went to the Dallas Art Museum's King Tut exhibit.  Egyptian pyramids was the only thing I actually enjoyed learning about in history classes.  It was really cool to see all the artifacts and learned more about their culture.

We also went to The 6th Floor Museum.  It is in the building where JFK was shot from.  I really enjoyed learning more about JFK's life.  It was really an emotional thing for me.  Tears came a few times, while watching footage of the parade and hearing Jacqueline talk about her husband.  

Shout out to Lindsey!  Thanks for the phone call, you are so thoughtful and my breast friend!

Lo

Similar Lo to yesterday...Dallas highways are too confusing and frustrating.

Ha

We were a little frustrated trying to find dinner once again tonight.  Mariko was driving and we were just trying to get back on the highway.  She turned left and as she did, we realized we were going the wrong way on a one-way street!  There was a large median and no where to go...thankfully God saved us from the crazy streets of Dallas.  Lots of laughter after the fear of death!

La

Tomorrow we are doing a little photo session.  I'm no model, but I think it will be fun!

Hi-Lo-Ha on location in DALLAS!

Hi

Seeing Jamie and Mariko!  They arrived at room 402 around 5:30 p.m. and we just had good times laughing and planning our friends destination weddings!  Get ready Erin and Lena...you're weddings are going to rock!

Lo

We drove around Dallas for 3 hours trying to find a restaurant to eat at.  Seriously, this is Dallas!!!  It's a ginormous city!  What in the world!  I drove on about 25 different highways and througohly did not love it!

Ha

After finding a restaurant, we were compeletly lost.  I stopped at a gas station to pick up a map and get us back to the hotel.  As I was walking up to the regester, a man saw me and ask where I was trying to go.  I showed him on the map and as he kept touching my back and my arms, he tried to explain to me how to get back.  I kept backing away from him and his bad breath.  I finally just said, "Thank You" and walked out.  He followed me and once again explained how to get back to the hotel.  He then grabbed my hand and asked me if I had a boyfriend.  I said, "Yes!" and as I walked to my car he asked, "Can I get a hug?"  Before I could reply he was already hugging me.  Yuck!  Dirty, sketchy men in Dallas!  Definitely not my type! :)

La

We're are headed to the King Tut exhibit at the Dallas Art Museum.  I've always loved pyramids and Egyptian history.

LET THE FESTIVITIES BEGIN!!

My friends, Jamie and Mariko, are awesome.  They live in Austin and a couple months ago mentioned meeting halfway in Dallas!  We decided to turn down all of our Valentine's Day dates and do it!!!  I'm at our hotel waiting for them to get here and can't wait!  Get excited for this....I may have a Hi-Ha every hour!!!

My Friends

My Family

My Words

My friend, Jamie, found this website that is really cool.  Check it out at http://www.wordle.net/.

You just put a link to your blog in to the website and it pops up a "picture" with the words you use most often.

Phone Calls

I really love my job. Sometimes I answer the switchboarch calls when the receptionist is busy.

Phone calls I've received at work:

Call #1 - An elderly woman
Me: Good Morning, how may I direct your call?
Person: I was wondering if you help people with food.
Me: We don't have a food pantry here but we can refer you to the ROC.
Person: I don't eat rocks.
Me: The ROC is an organization that can help with food and clothes.
Person: I don't need clothes.
Me: Well let me give you their phone number. They can give you some food.
Person: I AM NOT IN A BAD MOOD.
Me: MA'AM THE ROC CAN GIVE YOU FOOD.

Call #2 - A man
Me: Student Ministries, this is Jaci.
Person: I'm trying to talk to a pastor. Are you a pastor?
Me: No I'm not a pastor. Our pastors are in a meeting right now. Can I help you though?
Person: I need someone to help me.
Me: Ok well how can I help.
Person: I'm not a Christian and I know I'm going to hell and I'm ok with that. I just need some quarters for the vending machine. I'm in the hospital and they won't let me out. They think I'm crazy. I just need a Dr. Pepper. Can you bring me some quarters?
Me: Well, let me pass this message on to one of our pastors and we'll see what we can do.
Person: You are an angel. Let me read you a poem. (The man proceeds to read me a 5 minute long poem he wrote about an angel named Jaci. I'm pretty sure he was making it up as he spoke.)
Me: Thank you. That was really nice.
Person #2: Who is this?
Me: This is Jaci from Bethany First Church. Who is this?
Person #2: I am his doctor. You are not allowed to call patients.
Me: I didn't call him, he called me.
Person #2: He is not allowed to call people.
Me: Um ok.
Person #2: Please don't call here again.
Me: Um ok.
Person #2: Goodbye.
Me: Bye?

Call #3 - A woman
Me: Good Afternoon, how may I direct your call?
Person: Can you help me find a Bible verse?
Me: Maybe, which one are you trying to find?
Person: It's about God.
Me: Ok. I'm going to need a little more detail.
Person: It's about God and his love.
Me: Ok. (I proceed to give her 4 verses about God and his love.)
Person: No it's not those. You work at a church shouldn't you know Bible verses.
Me: I guess I don't know them all.
Person: Let me talk to a pastor, hopefully they know the Bible better than you.

Call #4 - A woman
Me: Good afternoon, how may I direct your call?
Person: DO YOU KNOW THAT JESUS CHRIST, SON OF GOD, LOVES YOU AND DIED ON A CROSS FOR YOU?
Me: Um, yes I do.
Person: HAVE YOU GIVEN YOUR LIFE AND SOUL AND SPIRIT AND BODY TO HIM?
Me: Um, yes.
Person: HAVE YOU BEEN BAPTIZED BY THE HOLY SPIRIT, LORD GOD, ALMIGHTY SAVIOR?
Me: I think so. (I'm started to get confused...)
Person: WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU THINK SO? YOU SHOULD KNOW!
Me: OH YES, YES I HAVE!
Person: GOOD! I CAN'T WAIT TO MEET YOU IN HEAVEN.

Call #5 - An elderly woman
Me: Student Ministries, this is Jaci
Person: Do you help with food?
Me: We can refer you to the ROC, they have a food pantry.
Person: Oh not for me, for my cat.
Me: Um, I don't know if they have cat food.
Person: I have 4 cats, they all need food.
Me: We don't have any cat food here. I'm not sure what else I can do.
Person: Do you need a cat?
Me: No I don't. I have a dog and she doesn' t like cats.
Person: If you need one I'll give you one.
Me: Oh ok thanks. I'll let you know.

Hi-Lo-Ha-La!!

Hi

Wednesday night I had the oppourtunity to speak to our middle school students. I talked about being a "Secret Survivor". We all have secrets. Some secrets are funny and some secrets are serious. I shared a few of my own "secrets" and then let them share their own. We have to talk about our secrets and our hurts to truly begin to heal. I love seeing God work in their lives as well as my own. Secret Survivors is a book that Megan Hutchinson (LHGH) and Jen Howver put together. It tells the stories of 7 individuals who found healing in sharing their secrets. It's a great book!

I also went to Cuppies & Joe with Stefanie, Holly and the kids! I love that place. It's such a great atmosphere and I always run into people I know. For those of you who don't know, Cuppies and Joe is a cupcake and coffee spot in an awesome bungalow house. It's about 1/2 a mile from my school so C&J & I will become great friends!
Lo

I'm in my second week of grad school and I'm already behind. Not by a lot....it's only one chapter of reading but I really want to be ahead. Stress is not my friend.

Ha
I think I'm going to have to stick with my previous post about my friend Justin and his girlfriend. I am a dork.

La

I love college football and I could careless about professional football, but I am looking forward to the Superbowl. I really like the commercials and the community of people!

Awkward Moment

Have you ever thought the word awkward is spelled awkward? I had to open up Word to make sure I was spelling it right. Typically, I'm a pretty good speller but thank goodness for spell check.

This Sunday I was walking into church and saw an old friend from high school. We had grown up at church together then after college he had moved to Chicago. He got married a couple years ago and we really haven't kept in touch at all. As soon as we saw each other we shared a huge hug. He was with him mom and wife. I couldn't remember her name so I just started saying, "Hi! We met a long-time ago at your shower. You look so good! How are you?" I'm a rambler, I often don't give people a chance to talk in situations like this. Justin finally interrupted me with, "Um this is actually my girlfriend, the whole marriage thing didn't quite workout." I was completely embarrassed. I started rambling again, "I'm so sorry, this is so awkward, oh my goodness, so sorry!" This is my most embarrassing moment of the year thus far. Feel free to share your own!

The Perfect Chair

Do somethings just feel wrong?  I'm not talking about dating relationships or bad decisions...I'm just talking about silly things that aren't really that important.  For instance, there are a couple roads in the OKC area that I just can't stand.  I'm not sure why.  It's not because there are busy or that I have a bad memory there...I just hate them.  I will drive 5 miles out of the way instead of going down that road.  

But just as there are something I don't like, for a reason I can't even begin to fathom, there are somethings that I love, for reasons I also cannot fathom.  I just found the perfect chair at the Oklahoma City University library.  The library has 5 floors and I went to all of them just to check them out today.  I started at 1 and it was too busy.  I went to 4 and it was too musty.  I went to 3 and it was just too loud.  I went to 5 and it was nasty.  Then I went to 2 and it was nice.  Good atmosphere, good noise level, I wandered through a few rows of books then I saw it....the perfect chair in the perfect corner of the perfect floor!  It's these little things that I really love!

First Night of Grad School

I started graduate school last night. My first class is called, Sociocultural Foundations in Counseling. I was really excited and had a lot of ideas of what it would be like. When I arrived I realized it would be nothing like I thought. It wasn't awful but it wasn't great either. I really thought there would be more people just like me...not that I think I'm wonderful or anything. I just assumed there would be several compassionate Christians. I live in pretty much a Christian bubble. I work at my church, I live 6 blocks away, I am next door to a Christian university...I honestly do not have any friends who are Christians and a large majority of them are Nazarenes! I've prayed over the last year that God would bring non-Christian friends into my life. I wasn't prepared for what that would look like.

One girl who cusses at least twice when she speaks, the one guy in my class that spoke about kissing another guy, a black girl who doesn't like other black people.....the list goes on and on. This will be a great experience for me, I'm sure of it. I know that it's good to be uncomfortable in these situations because it makes you grow...at least that's my prayer.

I do love the readings and my professor. She is very eccentric which makes it fun. She's probably in her early 50s and she has a streak of purple hair. She's not real organized and she's really laid back. She definitely wants us to come to our own understanding of Sociocultural backgrounds which I like.

Our first assignment was to write a one-page paper on who we are and where we've come from...what are our sociocultural foundations. I had never really thought about a lot of those things. My paper was about being a white, heterosexual, female in a middle-class family. I realized that I'm not a grateful for my privileges as I should be and I'm really looking forward to learning more about myself and why I am the way I am.

God, Use me at OCU. Teach me and give me your wisdom and discernment. I want to a light for YOU!