circuit to elysium

Photos from Blizzard 2010 (February 6-8)

2010-02-09T09:32:00.004-05:00

The now non-existent sidewalk to our mailbox

The front of our house

Our street

The bush in front of our house

Our street

And by the way, these photos we taken at 10 a.m. on Saturday morning. It didn't stop snowing until about 4:30 in the afternoon!

New Bedroom Flooring

2009-11-27T21:48:00.004-05:00

Hooray, we have finished our temporary bedroom flooring this evening (finally!). If you have missed it, we had to take out the carpet in our bedroom when we first moved in because it was really nasty (we took it out immediately). Unfortunately, we haven't had quite enough money saved up to get new flooring (we want to do the whole house at once), so we decided to put down reed mats (think Japanese Tatami Mats) in our bedroom. It is not perfect, but it is a huge improvement from the subflooring that we have been walking on! I apologize for the lack of before photos, and the less than amazing quality (our camera cord is still lost, so I used John's iPhone).

this always makes me smile

2009-09-09T13:41:00.006-04:00

most of you have probably seen this a long time ago, but I still love it...

2 weeks down...almost

2009-09-03T08:52:00.003-04:00

Well, I am almost finished with my first two weeks back to school. I have really enjoyed the material and I feel that I am grasping it really well. The hardest part has been having dishes stacked in the sink, dust gathering on the shelves and feeling too stressed to go to the gym (though working out would probably help me more than hurt me...it's a mental thing, I guess).

So, I'm learning what new mommies sometimes have to learn: it's ok to let the dishes sit, and to eat mac and cheese or blts for dinner. And a bit of dust doesn't really hurt too much either.

I'm going to try to take my first exam on Saturday...wish me luck!

School, School, School

2009-08-26T10:27:00.003-04:00

Ok, it is official! I have now started prerequisite classes in hopes of getting into nursing school. I know this may be surprising for some, but I had orginially planned on going to nursing school when I graduated High School. But, going to Kennesaw where the competition is so high, I chickened out and went with English instead. So, this is how is began:

I graduated with a B.A. in English, and have since had a difficult time finding a job (mostly due to the economy, I hope). John and I had been talking one day last spring about how it has been hard for me (mostly emotionally) to have jobs that don't require a degree...which I worked so hard for. And, I haven't really clicked with any jobs and after commuting to D.C. 3 days a week for an internship, realized that the commute would be just too much.

So, out of the blue a few days later John asked me: "What do you think about going to nursing school?" I said, "I think that would be great." And he said, "Well, do you want to go to nursing school?" and after a moment I said I did want to go to nursing. So, I did the research, worked out the numbers, and here I am, taking prerequisites online at a community college.

I hope to get into George Mason University's accelerated nursing program. This program is only for people who already have a bachelor's degree in another discipline. The program is 12 months straight and is highly vigorous. I can apply to the nursing program on January 15, and will find out in June(ish) whether I make it or not. The accelerated nursing program begins fall 2010.

So, I could potentially get a B.S. in Nursing in 2 years, including the prerequisites and nursing program combined. Not too bad, eh? If I do make it into the program, I will need to quit my job and go to school full time.

I am a bit scared, because this is a big jump for me. I am taking 11 credits this semester: Anatomy and Physiology I (1st 8 weeks of the semester--4c), Anatomy and Physiology II (2nd 8 weeks of the semester--4c), and Ethics (3c). I have a total of 20 exams, 20 quizzes, 12 discussion board assignments, 18 labs, and workbook exercises and drills.

Next semester I will need to take microbiology, psycholoy, and nutrition...I am expecting it to be a bit easier...I hope :)

Prayers would be much appreciated as I learn to balance working full-time, being a wife, and being in school (almost) full-time!

My new best friend:

And you want me to...

2009-08-14T09:43:00.009-04:00

...trust them with my healthcare?

So...if UPS and Fed/Ex are doing "just fine", and the post office is the one that has difficulties, why would I want to be on board with the government concerning my health and well-being, when (apparently) the government is having problems delivering the mail...?

New flooring...sort of

2009-08-07T10:58:00.005-04:00

We bought a foreclosed house, and got a great deal on it. However, that carpet is not that great. We regularly steam clean it, but it is just old. We had planned on getting new flooring for the whole house within 6 months of living there, but things didn't really work out as we had planned (since when does the timing of home improvements ever work out like we planned?). We had to take the carpet out of our bedroom because it was just terrible. So, we have been walking on subfloor for a few months past a year.

My new idea because I just can't take it anymore: tack down straw beach mats (hopefully we can find some on sale) as an alternative for another 6-10 months or so. It's a little strange I suppose, but it is similar to the Japanese tatami mats (but much cheaper and not quite as durable or neat-looking).

So, I'll be putting something (hopefully) that looks very much like this (below) on our floor:

John and I are both excited about it. It seems like it will be a relatively cheap way to make things bearable for a little bit longer. And, we don't need to worry too much about durability, because hopefully it won't need to be there much longer than 6-10 months or so. The biggest thing now is trying to find some mats (hopefully on sale as it is nearing the end of the beach season). If I can't find any around here, I'll have to buy them online.

lists

2009-07-15T09:28:00.002-04:00

Not a very inspired post today, but I have to write it all down somewhere.

Here is my schedule for today:

~ 8:30: Get to work after dropping John off at his work
~ 1:00: On my lunch break, go to the store and get salad and Texas Toast, drop off salad, Texas Toast, and london broil (that I made last night) at our friend's house, who just had a baby
~ 2:00: Go back to work, each lunch at some point
~ 4:30: Leave work
~ 4:45: Hair appointment
~ 5:30: Leave hair appointment, pick John up from work
~ 6:15: Go to the gym, after swing by Subway to grab some dinner
~ 7:15: Babysit for our caregroup leader and his wife

To do before leaving for the beach on Saturday:

~ Clean out the car and vaccuum it
~ Wash the car
~ Get oil changed, if posible
~ Do laundry
~ Pack--clothes, towels, beach stuff (sunscreen, tanning oil, etc.)
~ Paint my toes :)
~ Add fabric to the back of my bathing suit, if possible
~ Straighten up the house

fitness fanatics?

2009-07-08T09:13:00.010-04:00

John and I went to Gold's Gym in Chantilly yesterday because we are considering getting a gym membership. I was really excited once we got there and looked around ... they have a "cardio movie theater" that has treadmills, elliptical trainers, and bicycles. They play movies all throughout the day. It's a workout concept that is extremely appealing to me, as I am a visually stimulated individual...give me a tv and an elliptical trainer, and I can just go!

On the topic of getting fit, my parents told me I should check out livestrong.com. It has a huge database of foods where the nutritive content has already been entered (called My Daily Plate). It helps you set a caloric intake goal for each day, and it takes into account your exercise as well. I think I just might become addicted. I've already noticed that it helps me cut back on snacking and things.

All this, why? Most immediately, we're going to the beach in 1 ½ weeks, and I would like to be on my way to being in better shape ... not that there's a whole lot that can be done in that amount of time. But, at least I will be feeling better, I hope. A few pictures from former beach trips:

summer crafts from marthastewart.com

2009-07-07T10:38:00.009-04:00

Here are a few summer crafts that I hope to do in the next month or so...from my all-time favorite website, marthastewart.com:

Enamel Vases

"Dishwasher-safe enamel paint is sold at most crafts stores. Wash the bottle inside and out with soapy water; let dry.

Pour in a small amount of the paint's surface conditioner, which primes the glass for the enamel. Swirl to coat fully, then pour out excess.

Stand bottle upright, and dry for an hour. Pour in enough enamel to easily coat the inside. Swirl, and return excess to container for reuse.

Dry bottle upside down on a paper towel for 48 hours, periodically wiping excess enamel from the rim with a damp cloth during the first hour."

Pillowcase Tote

"Trim 1/4 inch off the closed end, and cut the case in half on the diagonal.

Turn the fabric of each of the four diagonal cut edges over by 1/4 inch, twice; pin, and hem.

Place one pillowcase half inside the other, lining up bottom edges; pin, and sew at front where fabrics overlap. Repeat on other side.

Turn fabric inside out, and hem case's cut bottom. Trim with pinking shears.

Turn case right side out, tie top ends into a knot, and you have a carefree summer bag."

I know I am a bit behind on the pillowcase tote, but it is something I have been wanting to do for over a year now and haven't gotten around to it. Hopefully I can get it done before the beach in two weeks!

the new job

2009-07-06T16:17:00.002-04:00

I've spent a good part of my afternoon redesigning my blog. I like it. It is nice to have a job that allows me to redesign my blog while I work. I have resolved (once again) to blog more often, and post more photos...as soon as I find my camera cord. Well, I leave in about 15 minutes, so I'll need to wrap things up. Hopefully I'll get a chance to post something of greater interest tomorrow. I just wanted to put myself back up on the board.

Mid-Winter Woes

2009-02-10T22:08:00.005-05:00

It is almost halfway through my third week of work, and it is going well. We went in to DC today for some training, and will be going again tomorrow...which means getting to work at 7 am to carpool to the city. But, the good thing is I get home before 4:30 or 5, which is nice.

I'm going to start working out. Seriously, I am. And I am writing this purely so that I have a record, hoping that it will help motivate me. Seriously, I think getting married makes (ok, helps) people gain weight. Our complex has a workout room, so I really have no excuse. Ah, I know running will make me feel better and be more productive.

For more motivation, here are a few photos from our honeymoon...

I think was at the Mexican (authentic) restaurant. We had a blast

The moon was beautiful that night, and the camera just couldn't do it justice.

Right before we went on our "Jungle Tour" to go snorkeling ... and we got to drive a little two-people speed boat.

This was our last night, I think. Or maybe second to last.

Arriving at the Cancun airport.

Ok, I know I am in a weird pose in this one (think 1 1/2 hours of sleep, excited to be in Cancun, etc.) ... but still.

All Over The Place

2009-01-24T22:50:00.004-05:00

Today John and I went to Georgetown with our friends Stephen and Laura Gallo...it was so much fun! We just bundled up and went from store to store window shopping and hanging out. We got coffee at a really cool place called Dean and Deluca. It was great, and cheaper than Starbucks (don't worry, I will always love Starbucks).

Afterward, John and I stopped by my Grandma's house and hung out with my mom and dad, who are staying with her indefinitely. For a quick update, my mom has a temporary job here, and my dad may get a job up here, too. I know it would be difficult for them to leave friends and family in Georgia, but I would LOVE to have them here; I still feel a bit selfish, though I know it ultimately has nothing to do with me. I want to be there for my parents, and I pray often that they will be able to find good, solid jobs that will help them out financially. My mom is a realtor, but the housing market is worse in Georgia than it is even here, so she has been unable to make enough money to pay the bills. Meanwhile, my dad resigned from his teaching job back in November, and is currently searching for a job. Please pray that they won't have to be separated, and that God will provide them with secure jobs, that they would have faith, and that they would feel the nearness and presence of God.

Speaking of Jobs, Monday is my first day of work! I am a bit apprehensive, just because I don't know exactly what it will be like (I always want to know everything about everything, from every angle possible), but I know that I will be good at it, and I am confident that this is the job God has for me right now. It should be good, I'll try to keep people updated!

By the way, I am in love with Anthropologie, mostly the houseware things. If you have never checked it out, you should...even though I probably won't be able to afford anything there for a looooong time!

Some House Ideas

2009-01-21T11:46:00.006-05:00

A little explanation: My guest bedroom is going to be modern shabby chic ... because I can't afford anything nicer! However, here are a few ideas that I really like and hope to incorporate into the room (or any room in my house). The big issue is the walls desperately need to be painted. I'll decide on a color when I feel like I can paint again. I'm playing with the idea of wallpapering one or two walls, but we'll see if I can find a nice wallpaper that looks semi-modern and won't become dated too quickly.

2009-01-15T10:41:00.012-05:00

So I got the job! I will be a Communications Specialist at WRB Communications, beginning on January 26, at 9:00 am. At first I wasn't too thrilled about the job; but, looking back, I can see how the Lord has prepared me in many ways for accepting this offer. I was actually originally a communications major in school before I switched to English. I loved the material, but I didn't care for the professors and the communications department at Kennesaw. So, you could say I'm going back to my original career goal in college.

One of the great things about this job is that it is about 7 minutes from John's work. This really is a blessing, especially because we have only 1 car. Maybe we can get lunch together every once in a while!

Ok, I must confess: One of the main reasons I am looking forward to this job is the shopping. I don't have many professional work clothes, certainly not enough for an entire week. So, I get to do a bit of shopping before I start work, and then when I start getting my paychecks, I can gradually spend a bit more. Hooray! In the spirit of shopping I am going to post a few pictures of items I would like to get:

New Year's Resolutions

2009-01-05T13:50:00.002-05:00

I don't typically make New Year's resolutions. But this year, I will. Three simple ones:

1. Create a house cleaning schedule (i.e. Mondays : bathrooms, Tuesdays: laundry, etc.)

2. Cook at least 3 dinners a week from scratch. We've gotten into the bad (and unhealthy) habit of frozen pizzas, pot stickers, and chicken wings

3. Get a job and get a gym membership

Not too shabby, and somewhat reasonable. I may be close on my way to #3...I had an interview last Friday with a communications company for a "communications specialist" position. It's a temp to hire position, so it is through a temp agency. Apparently my interview went well, so I will know something more later this week. The nice thing about this job is it is close to John's work, which is helpful with only one car. Anyway, I hope to post some belated pictures of the Christmas soon.

Monday Morning Suprises

2008-12-17T12:38:00.004-05:00

On Monday, John told me that the gas guy was going to come to our house and give us an estimate on how much it will cost to change all of our electric appliances to gas. So, he called me and said the guy would be there in 15 minutes. So up my hair went into a pony tail, on went the athletic pants and t-shirt.

The knock comes, I open the door.

"Hi we're from DirecTV...we have an order from Mr. John Beavers."

WHAT?! "Oh .... Um ... DirecTV?"

"Yes, we have an order from John Beavers. I just spoke to him on the phone about 15 minutes ago." Oh. So he's not the gas guy? Then he says, "Oh, this is a surprise?" in his Spanish accent.

I finally find my tongue and say something to the effect of "Oh. Yes. You're no the gas guy? Haha, this must be a surprise!" What a goober.

So I let them in, and they gave me satellite TV with a DVR.

My husband is amazing.

Dr. Cheney Duvall, M.D. Confessions

2008-12-10T20:04:00.005-05:00

So this is slightly embarrassing, but I cannot help sharing about it. When I was in high school, I became addicted to reading Christian fiction novels. I know it sounds cheesy, but some of them are very well written, entertaining, and completely junk-free. What more could you ask? I read books from authors such as Janette Oke, Linda Chaikin, Tracy Peterson, Brock and Bodie Thoene, Robin Hardy, etc.

But most of all, my favorite co-authors were Gilbert and Lynn Morris, Authors of the famed Cheney Duvall, M.D. series. I read this series multiple times (ok, maybe like 20 times), and eventually deemed myself too old for the series (The girl who still loves reading A Wrinkle in Time and the Harry Potter Books...right). But recently, as I have been riding the Metro for endless hours each week, I have run out of books to read (that is, books that I own...taking library books on the metro makes me nervous). So, in my desperate attempt to not be bored any more on the metro, I decided to read the Cheney Duvall series again (well, books 3, 6, and 7, since the others seem to be missing, though I used to own every book in the series except for the last one). But, it was no problem, because I still know the story line, and skipping a few books at a time was no biggie.

Until I got RE-ADDICTED. What? Yes. Re-addicted. They are just as good as they were in high school. And, as a college graduate with a degree in English, I am proud to assert that the writing is, in fact, still pretty good. Though there are a few cheesy lines here and there (which I LOVE and would not want gone for a second), the writing is good, considering the subject matter and the publisher. Most of all though...it's entertaining. Which, in my mind, is very important when it comes to the metro. If you feel like a fun (and slightly embarrassing read...just look at the covers) try them. They are addictive.

Georgia on my mind

2008-11-07T07:56:00.002-05:00

I bought the tickets last week. I'm going to Georgia! I'll be there November 21-24...hooray! hooray! hooray! I get to see my family, including Baby Joel. And other babies too, like Baby Arden. I claim her as a semi-niece. Babies!

Monday, Monday

2008-11-03T11:49:00.002-05:00

Monday's are...well...long days usually. I don't work today, and John hangs out with his friends after work, so I don't usually see him until 11:30 or midnight. So, I am alone all day, for the most part. Well, me and my phone. I make lots of phone calls on Mondays.

I had forgotten how beautiful fall in Virginia is. In Georgia, I'll say "It's fall! It's so nice." In Virginia I say, "Wow...this is gorgeous! I love fall!"

I love Virginia fall.

Organ Trails

2008-10-20T17:12:00.003-04:00

Did I just make a joke? Yes, I did. But it's accurate, you'll see.

John bought an organ. A what? A Hammond M3 Organ. Why? He's in a band. With Andrew Gallo, Duke Walker, and Chris Pittman. And apparently they needed an organ. So, Andrew found this guy who was selling his organ, and they needed someone to pick it up in Bethesda. So, John and I offered to pick it up on Sunday. Here's where the trail begins.

We leave Manassas Sunday morning to go to church, in Fairfax . After church, we borrow Marie Walker's van so we can pick it up. John forgot his guitar [which he traded for the organ], so we went back to Manassas . Then, we go from Manassas to Bethesda to pick up the organ. Then, we went from Bethesda to Alexandria to drop off the organ at the Walker's [that's where all their band equipment is]. Then, Alexandria to Fairfax to watch the first half of the Redskins game at a friend's house, then to Fairfax Corner to meet John's parents for dinner, who are driving through town. Then home, to Manassas.

That's our Organ Trail :)

Stolen from John's Xanga

2008-10-15T10:42:00.002-04:00

Ok, so John doesn't xanga much...it was a high school thing, mostly. Because of this, I never check for new postings. But, he does feel the need every once in a while to update. So, yesterday I thought I would look, and stumbled upon this...

Thursday, May 15, 2008

Currently Listening
X&Y
By Coldplay
Kingdom Come
see related

I'm Getting Married

Jenevieve: do you realize that you have the most beautiful face?

More than the first day I picked up a guitar, more than the day I sang my first little tune.
More than when I graduated from high school, and more than four years later, graduating from college.
More than moving to Northern Virginia as a boy of five, more than moving to Georgia at twenty-three.
More than the day I was hired for my first job, more than my interview in a suit for the job I have now.
More than just about everything that's happened to me in the twenty-four years I've been around, aside from my savior calling me to him: The woman I met two years ago is changing my life in such a good way, and I can't wait to celebrate my marriage to her tomorrow...and rehearse it today. The time beforehand has gone too quickly...it has been difficult but sweet. Now I'm a little apprehensive because I know I can't get this time back, and I want to make the most of it. But it's too late, the flowers have arrived, I need to go and pick up the tuxes today. Everyone's told me that marriage is wonderful and a welcome change. Taking the step is still terrifying, though. I have a lot to get done today...so I guess I should stop sitting around. I just want everyone who reads this (sadly...nobody really reads it) that I am moved to tears thinking about dancing with my wife at our wedding. I don't have delusions about the significance of blogging this. I just needed someplace to write this down!

For you I'd wait
'til kingdom come
until my days
my days are done
say you'll come
and set me free
just say you'll wait
you'll wait for me

So there. He loves me :)

Terry-Cloth Caddy

2008-10-13T20:09:00.003-04:00

For some reason this really caught my eye. [Have I mentioned I am completely obsessed with marthastewart.com?].

Anyways, I am going to hang this in my shower. We have a towel rod inside the shower, so I am just going to hang it on there somehow, and put all of my shampoos, conditioners, body wash, loofa, and razor in there. Since it is a towel, I can simply take it down every once in a while to throw it in the wash. It will also be convenient because then I can keep the sides of the shower nice and clean without having to move bottles and stuff all around. Yay for organization!

P.S. I'll show a photo whenever I get around to doing it. I do have a towel stained with hair dye...maybe I can get some fabric paint and make it look neat!

Nose Stud Adventures...tmi

2008-10-01T22:14:00.003-04:00

I love my nose stud. But recently, I have been a bit sniffly. So, today I blew my nose, and the stud shot right out. Gross, huh? I spent 5 minutes trying to get it back in, but the bad thing was, I had plans to go get coffee with a friend of mine who I haven't seen in 2 years, and was already running late (it was sooooo much fun, by the way! I've missed Hope). So I left it out.

Hours later, John and I got home, and I immediately began to try to get that stud back in. I tried. John tried. I tried again, from every possible angle. Finally, I took out my cartilage earring and tried to poke through...no good. Tried again. Finally, I prayed. "Lord, please help me get this back in...I really don't want it to close up!" So I tried one more time, and it slipped right through. I know it's silly but...thank goodness God cares about the lowliest of these who care about the lowliest stupid things in life.

Babies, Babies, Babies

2008-09-29T23:21:00.003-04:00

I went to a baby shower tonight for a girl in our care group. It was a lot of fun, and a smallish group, so it wasn't chaotic or anything, which was great. Anyways, a lot of people I know are having babies...if you live Georgia, you know that! But my sister just had her second child, Joel David. I can't wait to meet him! I feel a bit left out, because a close friend of mine, who is very much like a sister, had her baby, Arden Lucia this past July...so that is basically a niece for me. I can't wait to meet these precious little people.

John threatened me last night with secretly wanting a baby. I do want a baby. Several in fact. In several years :) I love just love babies, and they really do turn the crappiest, hardest, longest day into a day in which every endeavor has suddenly become either worthwhile or not important anymore. Babies make me smile, reminding me that life is more precious than the mundane little details or frustrations that we allow to fill up our everyday lives. That I allow to fill up my life each day.

Just a few photos of the most precious baby boy...

Lovers in Japan

2008-09-29T15:55:00.002-04:00

By Coldplay...one of my new favorite songs.

Lovers, keep on the road you're on
Runners, until the race is run
Soldiers, you've got to soldier on
Sometimes even the right is wrong

They are turning my head out
To see what it's all about
Keeping my head down
To see what is feels like now
But I have no doubt
One day we're gonna get out

Tonight maybe we're gonna run
Dreaming of the Osaka sun
Ohh, ohh...
Dreaming of when the morning comes

They are turning my head out
To see what I'm all about
Keeping my head down
To see what it feels like now
But I have no doubt
Some day the sun will come out

Fall

2008-09-25T12:33:00.003-04:00

It's finally starting to feel a bit like fall. I am so excited! I love it when things cool down, I can break out my fall/winter clothes...it's like I get a whole new wardrobe without paying a thing! (well, I end up buying a few seasonal essentials ;)

The weather is a bit cold today and very cloudy. It's supposed to rain all this afternoon and evening I think. And tomorrow all day as well. That will be fun riding the metro and walking around in D.C. going to work. But I like the rain, so it shouldn't be too bad.

Well, I'm really not going to go into much detail at all, but John and I will be facing some pretty big decisions in the next 3 months or so that could dramatically change our lives. So, we have been praying, talking, thinking, praying, talking...a lot. We would really appreciate your prayers, that God would lead us and give us clarity about these decisions. We are currently seeking counsel, and are excited for what God has for us...no matter what it is! It's scary, a bit exciting, and slightly overwhelming. But God is good :)

Thanks, friends!

Metro Adventures

2008-09-15T21:37:00.008-04:00

Since I have been commuting to my internship in DC 3 days a week via the metrobus and the metro, I'd say I'm getting used to the routine...I feel as if I'm almost an expert [that is to say, I don't get lost]!

Each day I secretly hope I hear some outrageous conversation, see someone fall on their face running to the metro...or just see anything out of the ordinary that is laugh-worthy. I've been disappointed each and every day for 3 weeks. Maybe I'm just not observant enough. The most I have seen is metro rules being violated every day. So...here are a few "rules":

1. Leave the floor to ceiling poles for the shorties. We can't reach the ceiling poles...and we'd rather not fall on our face, or worse...knock you over.

2. Wear deodorant. In rush hour, everyone is squished together. If you are going to pop people's personal bubbles, please smell nice...or decent at least.

3. If you want to walk up the escalator...use the left side. If you want to ride the escalator, stand on the right [and keep your bags clear of the walkway on the escalator]. Those of us who are trying to get a bit of exercise or make up for some missed time would rather not shove you to the side, or yell 'excuse me!' By the time the bystander finally moves, it causes a stampede from all the backup they caused in approximately 7 seconds...and stampedes are never good for personal safety or tempers.

4. Music is good, iPods are great. Maybe you could turn it up just a little bit more so we can all listen? I'll suggest a good one: All You Need is Love [The Beatles]

5. The lady on the metro [you know, the voice] says move to the center of the aisle when boarding. This means, do not step into the metro car, smile triumphantly that you made it safe in one whole piece, and take a half step to the side. Again, stampede = no good. Move, please.

6. For lovers: we're all glad that you have found your special person that makes you smile. Really, we do! However, please keep the kissing to another place other than a public transit station. Holding hands is adorable...stick with the innocent PDA, please.

7. One final escalator moment: if you choose to walk all the way up the stairs, once you reach the top KEEP WALKING. If you stop, you will get knocked over. Or nearly at least. We know you are proud to have reached the top in one piece, breathing heavily, and taking in the sunshine. However, please keep moving, or step far to the side. Thanks.

I really do enjoy the metro. It's fun, urban, gives me more exercise, and I love wearing my sunglasses to hide my people watching [though everyone knows that whoever wears sunglasses is secretly staring at people]. Oh well, I'm shameless, because 98% of the people on my car have most likely never seen me before.

Back to reasonable thinking, the metro is a great place to practice tolerance, especially for someone who gets annoyed easily :) But I am learning, and I just try to laugh [not at people, no, never].

Tomorrow...I will be watching and listening, hoping yet again that I will finally get to see or hear something laugh-worthy. Man, everyone's so serious on the metro.

Update

2008-09-10T10:25:00.005-04:00

Well, many things have happened since I last wrote. First of all, I started a cooking blog for a school project...as it turns out, I am pretty happy with it :) [though I still want to play with the logo a bit more]. The address is : shortplusweet.blogspot.com. It's a lot of fun, though a bit time consuming.

I started my internship. I like it a lot for the most part. Though the commute is about 1½ hours, it isn't too bad since I just sit and read. The area in DC is gay central, but it has really neat shops and buildings, and so I always enjoy my walks to and from work...and the rainbow flags are pretty ;) Also, I was able to do something my boss didn't know how to do yesterday, which was pretty great. I think they are realizing that I may be a bit more capable than the common intern [since I already had an internship with very similar duties, I've already learned a lot]. Anyways, I hope to get my foot in the door and find a way into the publishing business...I think after this internship, it shouldn't be too difficult.

School Project

2008-08-12T13:12:00.003-04:00

What?! Yes, I am already thinking about school. I start my final class, Computers and Writing, on Monday, the 18th. My semester long project is to create and maintain a professional style blog...with a theme. These themes can range anywhere from a hobby [cooking, photography, sports, etc.], a learning journal [research], or reviews/critiques [music, food, films, books, etc.] blog. Anyways, I was toying with an art blog, a cooking/recipe blog, a research blog, or maybe a Washington D.C. tourist blog (since I am here and can take cool photos and things myself). But, the reason I am posting this is because I'm interested to hear what kind of blogs you all think would be interesting...

any ideas?

Dreams, or what people assume them to be

2008-08-08T17:13:00.004-04:00

Most people would say they have dreams. Whether their dream is finally graduating college [ahem], getting married, being able to run 3 miles without feeling as if you are going to die, or simply finding out to make the perfect strawberry smoothie at home, it doesn't matter. A dream is a dream, a goal is a goal.

I, unfortunately, feel like I have never had enough goals and dreams, or maybe I have had so many and have fallen short so many times that they were never dreams at all, in the consideration of reality as it is. If my thoughts and so-called attempts had been dreams, when wouldn't I have achieved them already?

And then there is always the factor of God's will. His plans are not our own, I know that. And He wants us to do everything for His glory. Got that too. But where do lifelong dreams come in? God already has a plan...a perfect plan, to prosper me. To give me a hope. A future. A LIFE. So I guess it comes down to laying our dreams at the feet of Jesus, and humbly offering them up saying, 'it's yours God, I trust you.' Of course, easier said than done.

But this post isn't about my dreams. To be honest, as I stated earlier, I am sorely lacking in dreams. I wanted to get married someday. Check. I wanted to graduate college at some point. Almost check. I wanted to have a house of my own. Check. Dreams I haven't achieved but hope to someday, not necessarily soon: Having a good job in the publishing business. Being a mother. Staying thin and attractive for my husband [and me] when I get older.

God allows us to choose our dreams and goals. But ultimately, He is the One who gives dreams, and takes them away.

On another note. Ravioli for dinner?

Or fast food?

Raindrops on roses

2008-08-07T14:24:00.028-04:00

Ok, so I've decided to add more pictures to my blog. Not necessarily of me, John, and our friends, but just of things I like, find fun, yummy, or beautiful. So here goes.

White chocolate raspberry bars. I actually add almonds on top, and they are fabulous [though they may not look this good when I make them, I can assure you they taste just as good!]

Tornadoes and severe weather have always been a fascination of mine. They are beautiful, powerful, and destructive.

Tulips are my favorite flower...in any color, shape, or size!

Make-up. What more can I say? It's the best.

Nags Head Beach. There is no other beach that makes me happy [well, Cancun was amazing too]

Roses [or any flowers] from my husband

John's random photo shoots of himself

Thursday

2008-07-24T09:34:00.006-04:00

Today is Thursday, but I could swear it is Friday! I guess I have beach on the mind...!

I have a loooooong To Do list today. I'll share it with you :)

1. Clean all bathrooms
2. Straighten up living room and dining room
3. Clean kitchen
4. Paint two office walls
5. Do my training course for work at 4 (don't worry, I get paid)
6. Make the bed
7. Straighten up bathroom
8. See if John's rug matches the office, if not, to the basement it goes!
9. Plan taco dinner
10. Walk to the library if it isn't too hot, and return books (and pick up a few for the BEACH)
11. Finish the laundry that I have been doing since Sunday (omg, it's Thursday...wth?!?) by now
I have more laundry to start...for the beach :D
12. Re-cover two throw pillows for the bedroom (if I have time)
13. Put clean sheets on the guest bed, find extra pillows for the guest bed...?
14. Write more Thank You notes
15. Write a packing list for the beach, since I am the woman of the house I get to do the honors

Though not all of it has to get done today, I am hopeful. If not, what i don't get done today will get done tomorrow. I guess I should stop blogging, then. Oh well.

I START MY LAST CLASS IN 22 DAYS! (my last class of my undergraduate career...)

Northern Virginia memories

2008-07-18T16:07:00.004-04:00

It is neat to live in Northern Virginia, the place of childhood. Until today, however, the only thing that has been constant (that is, from my former life in Virginia, and my life in Virginia now) is my church...and even that has changed. I don't live in my old neighborhood, I can't go to the same pool, I am too far away and in the wrong county to go to my favorite book nook, Chantilly library. Prior to today, I have considered myself "home," but since so much has changed, it feels very much like I moved to a completely different place. Things have changed, and I have changed.

Today, I finally reconnected a bit with my childhood (I know that sounds silly, but it is true) that can stay constant. I went to the doctor's office...the one where I went as a kid, where I was diagnosed with pneumonia, and where the x-rays of my broken arm were taken. Having 3 other siblings, we were at the doctor's a lot...especially me. Since I haven't been feeling well for the past week, I decided it was time to find a doctor's office, and yesterday I had to decide which one. I wanted to choose a good office, so I called my mom and asked where we went as kids. I knew it was near Fair Oaks hospital, but I didn't know what it was called. My mom said it was called Fairfax Family Practice.

So, I looked it up, and found they accept our insurance! I made an appointment yesterday, and walked into the lobby this morning, early enough to fill out paper work; completely hit by memories and recognition. I went up to the 4th floor (which I remembered it being the fourth floor) and signed in. The kind lady directed me to the sitting area, where I had sat so many times with my mom. I could have sworn it shrunk! I remember the waiting room being this huge area with tons and tons of chairs. It was still spacious, I suppose, but not as big I remember...I guess that is living proof that I have grown :)

The doctor was very nice and helpful. I felt like she wasn't rushed, and was willing to spend as much time with me as needed. Though it was a 20 minute drive, I would say it was well worth it. Good memories (who would think a doctor's office would bring good memories?), and helpful insight from a good doctor. So, for the next few days, I am supposed to rest up and take things easy. No problem there :)

On a more sad note, I found out that a person I knew in 9th and 10th grades was killed in a motorcycle accident this past Sunday night (I actually heard about it soon after the fact). My mom was good friends with his mom, so she was able to attend the service on Wednesday. When you find out someone you know has died--whether they are a mere acquaintance or a close friend or family member--it always makes you stop and think. Kevin was 10 days younger than me. This incident reminds that life is precious, does not have an age requirement, and that it can happen in a single moment. It is sad to think that a loss of a life is my reminder of these things.

Finally (I know, long post)...Arden Lucia! Praise God for a healthy, beautiful niece! Okay, she's not technically my niece, but she might as well be :) Born to Francesca and Josiah Battaglia, July 14th at 1:04am (or was it 1:06?)

Friday night

2008-07-11T19:48:00.004-04:00

Sitting at home, again, waiting for John to come home. It's 7:48 and he probably won't be home until after 11...again. It's nice to have mom in town. She, grandma and I have been getting some new things done, which is always helpful and great. But mom and Grandma went home, and I stayed here.

I could:
read
take a bath
put the finishing touch-up paint in the hall bathroom
eat dinner
watch a movie
put away clothes
straighten up the living room

I have an exciting, glamorous life: see?

Quick update

2008-07-04T12:21:00.004-04:00

This week has been really fantastic. Jess, Jon, and Jon Lawrence came to visit Grandma, and it has been great hanging out with them (Jon also fixed our hot water heater and air conditioner...Grandma made him a silver [aluminum foil] medal that said 'Hero' on it), which was really amazing and super helpful.

My John has been working overtime all week and coming home (typically) after 10pm...so it has also been really helpful to be able to spend time with people during the day so I don't go mad.

This past Sunday Mark Mullery talked on marriage. It was great listening to a message on that subject, because now it was more applicable than ever before. one phrase stuck out to me: "he works, she waits." I couldn't have phrased my life right now in a better way.

Oh, Jewel's wedding was Sunday...it was a blast, and it was surely going to rain, but God clearly put a bubble on the Poe's backyard...totally gorgeous weather (a little muggy, but that's Northern Virginia).

John's parents are coming into town tomorrow, and are staying the night and leaving sometime on Sunday. They're coming to help us with a few other household-y things (hooray! fixing the kitchen sink leak, steam cleaning the carpets, and maybe some painting for the girls). So today, my job is to clean (what I can) before they get here tomorrow, though they are well aware the house is still a mess.

Mom comes in town next week! I am so excited, it will be great to see her. She will be able to see the house, and we can talk about decorating and, as Jewel would say, "all that jazz." Maybe she won't mind picking up a paint brush with me :)

Looking for a job is getting depressing. I may just go to my fallback: waiting tables. Ugh, I have some more praying to do in that area.

Oh, and the beach with John's family...in about 3 weeks. I am soooooooo excited, I can't stop thinking about it! Seriously, I can't. It will be a blast, and it will be great getting tan and sleeping and swimming and eating. Yay yay yay.

Back to Real Life

2008-06-17T09:47:00.002-04:00

So, here we are moved into our house. The place is still pretty disorganized and chaotic. Putting up paint on the walls makes the biggest difference! I'll try to post some photos in the next few days of some of the rooms.

I went to the social security office yesterday and officially changed my name to: Jenevieve Grace Newman Beavers. I couldn't bear to lose any of my name...so I didn't :)

These days, I bee mostly painting, trying to organize, and look for a job. I've applied for a few jobs, one of which is for SAIC, where John works. It would be really helpful getting a job there...because we have only one car, and commutes could get really tricky. Please pray that I find a job soon. I'm getting cabin fever and need to work! (not to mention we could use another income).

Off to go run and probably paint some more.

I'm Mrs. John Beavers!

2008-06-06T21:01:00.009-04:00

It's about time I update this thing! Here are a few wedding photos...they aren't in chronological order, and some are a bit dark, but...oh well. Also, my friend Jackie took some amazing photos... click here to see her website with the photos. The password is: beaverswedding

Update

2008-05-01T11:04:00.002-04:00

Since I have some time...

I had my surgery yesterday, and it went well. Yesterday I felt pretty good when I got home, and I was feeling less groggy than I had expected. John was very helpful yesterday...he brought me his pillow and a t-shirt (I love his shirts) and he sat on the couch with me and we watched the first 4 episodes of Band of Brothers, and he also made me soup. I had been wanting to watch Band of Brothers again and realized that in two weeks I won't be able to since we'll be married and moving!

Today it's not the same story as yesterday. I'm definitely hurting more and I feel very stiff and sore under my arms. I'm trying to psych myself up to take a shower, because it will probably make me feel better, but I don't feel like I have the energy.

Here's a list of things left to do:

-Pack (this is going to be difficult because the doctor said I can't lift or move anything that is even slightly healthy)
-Go over the music for the ceremony and reception
-Work on the design/make the programs (if we can get to it on time)
-Practice my hair and make-up (I know it sounds superficial, but it's gotta be done! :)
-Write one last paper...it's due on Monday, May 5th

I think those are the biggies. My dress is in it's final stages (hooray, it looks fabulous!), and I have gorgeous earrings and the shoes are on their way (hopefully they'll get here today or tomorrow).

I'm getting really nervous, and it's been starting to effect my appetite (not to mention the surgery has too). I hope to not lose much weight because then the dress will be too loose...oh well, mom can fix it if she has to...she's basically wonderwoman in disguise :)

Busy little bee who is ready to soon be a wifey

2008-04-26T21:37:00.004-04:00

Wow, time is flying by. Only 2 weeks and 6 days until the wedding...craziness!

And...I have only one paper, and one presentation, and one "conference" with a professor THEN I WILL BE DONE. I wrote a paper yesterday, two today, and I finished my portfolio today too. I feel so accomplished, and I think I have earned a nice hot bath with nice smelling somethings :D

Random note: my eyes have been bugging me lately so I have been wearing my glasses...and if I look studious, I feel studious, which means I will BE studious.

My surgery is on Wednesday. I hope it won't be too bad, but I'm not worried. Honestly, I'm sort of looking forward to it...I'll have an excuse to rest for a bit.

Cancun...3 weeks from today!!!

If you don't see me around...

2008-04-02T16:14:00.016-04:00

THIS IS WHY:

Friday 04.04 Bridal Shower
Monday 04.07 Critical Theory test
Wednesday 04.09 2 Outlines due
Friday 04.11 Drive to Virginia
Saturday 04.12 Shower in Virgina
Sunday 04.13 Drive to home to Georgia
Monday 04.14 Critical Theory Research Proposal due
Wednesay 04.16 Senior Seminar 2 copies of FINAL DRAFT (15-20 page paper)
Thursday 04.17 Foreign Lanuaguages and Cultures Final Presentation
Monday 04.21 British Literature Annotated Bibliography Due
Wednesday 04.23 Senior Seminar Final Copy Due
Critical Theory 3 Final Drafts Due in class
Monday 04.28 Critical Theory Final Essay Due
Senior Seminar Final Project and Portfolio Presentation
Tuesday 04.29 Foreign Languages and Cultures Final Exam Due
Wednesday 04.30 Surgery
Friday 05.02 Critical Theory Final Exam Due
Monday 05.05 British Literature Final Exam Due
Friday 05.09 Georgia Lingerie Shower
Tuesday 05.13 Relatives/friends come into town
Wednesday 05.14 More relatives/friends come into town
Thursday 05.15 Rehearsal Dinner
FRIDAY 05.16 I'M GETTING MARRIED!!!

So, it is a lot. But it will all get done. I am confident of that...I have a wonderful fiance, a wonderful mother, and lots of friends (and sister) to help me! Not to mention an adorable nephew and running to keep me sane.

6 weeks and 2 days until I get married...that's 44 days. Wow. We're almost to Noah and the Ark!

The start of a new week

2008-03-25T17:00:00.003-04:00

Well, it's Tuesday and the week has already been overwhelming. Not necessarily in a bad way...just overwhelmed.

This is my last week of my job (the freelance writing one). Out of my committments (outside of my fiance, family, and friends), something had to go: school, internship, wedding, or work. So, since I can't drop out of school, stop my internship (which I need and LOVE), and I certainly can't stop planning my wedding, work was it.

Countdown: 51 days

2008-03-12T12:19:00.008-04:00

Spring break is over, and the chaos has begun. I am already behind in school and work, and I am working desperately to take one day at a time...I honestly don't have much of a choice!

John and I went to Virginia this past weekend to look for houses. We found one that we really adore, and we submitted an offer on it Monday, so we are waiting patiently to hear back. The house is a 3 level, 3 bedroom, 3 bath, condo-owned townhouse located in Manasses, Virginia. It needs new floor and paint, a stove, and a washer and dryer. But, the price is right, and we will have a little money left over to do the necessary repairs. We may have to live on subfloor for a month or two, but we will survive (that is, if we get the house). We are trying to be full of faith, and are trusting God that He will provide us with the perfect house for us in His perfect timing. Please be in prayer with us as we endeavor to find a place to live in Virginia!

School is beginning to get really busy. I have something 'big' due about every other week, and it is certainly keeping me on my toes, though I am enjoying it (for the most part). After this week, there will be 7 more weeks of school, and then we get married in 1 1/2 weeks after that! It will be here soon :)

My internship is going very well. I am learning a lot, and absolutely love the work. I have been starting to look for jobs in New York, Boston, and Washington D.C., hoping to get a copy editing or proofreading job, so I can work from home. I have the opportunity to proofread and possibly copy edit for my internship boss, however if I choose to do so I will need to find other publishers to do the same work, since it is a primarily freelance job.

I've gotta run to class...I just wanted to give a little update :)

Engaged

2007-12-02T17:55:00.001-05:00

^ My handsome future hubby! ^

^ Happy couple ^

I should be working on final papers, studying for finals, and writing for work...but an excited girl needs some time to show it!

rain

2007-10-22T11:04:00.000-04:00

I woke up today to pouring rain. Like on all rainy days, I didn't want to go to school. I certainly have other things I could get done...like getting ahead on articles or cleaning my room and bathroom. I considered leaving early, but I had the misfortune of running into one of my professors this morning...I spoke momentarily with him, which means I HAVE to go to class. Rats.

It's another day

2007-10-17T08:28:00.000-04:00

One thing I really seem to enjoy complaining about is getting up early in the morning to go to class. Yes, it is painful. But I've realized that some days I grudgingly enjoy getting up in the bleary morning when the sun is still coming up. I enojy getting up early when I'm on my way out of town, or if I have an exciting day ahead of me. But for...school? That's much more difficult to be excited about. Especially if I had to stay up half the night writing a paper...or two.

Wednesday's are the busiest day of the week for me. It just seems that I am always going from 6:30am to 10 at night. Maybe 9:30, if I am lucky. I should probably pay attention to class, now. I'll learn about 2 Corinthians.

2007-10-16T16:19:00.000-04:00

Hooray, I now have my own space on blogspot! I'm not sure yet what I'll do with it. I'll probably post pictures, write journal entries, etc. I don't know what exactly possessed me to write more...I engage in several forms of writing for literally hours each day (I'm an English major and a freelance writer).

I think the primary appeal of writing on a blog is that I get to write what I want to write. When writing papers and articles, my freedom in topic or subject is limited. How refreshing it is to be able to write whatever I want, however I want, whenever I want; no deadlines!

P.S.
circuit to elysium = road to heaven (or paradise). It was inspired by none other than Shakespeare (King Henry V). So there you have it :)