Hello, dear Readers,
First of all, I ask you to forgive me for the haphazardness of this post. So many ideas and subjects for writing have been swirling around in my head the last couple of days… so please, bear with me.
Here is a blog post from 367 days ago:
http://onestrokeofhisbrush.blogspot.com/2010_12_01_archive.html
I've been thinking about surroundings lately, and how they affect us. In a long term way and on a daily basis. The households we grow up in and the people who raise us play a huge part in shaping us into who we become. Everyday, the atmosphere we are in and the people we are subjected to… school, work, home… they all impact us continually. The scary thing is, we often don't realize it.
Last year at this time, I was in Birmingham, England with my sister, mom and aunt. We were at our cousin's tiny house and very well taken care of. We had food to eat, warmth, pleasant, sweet company, tea, and coffee ON THE HOUR… yeah, it was nice. But, I literally felt sick. I think that was the first time I've truly understood and physically felt real homesickness. Our flight out of London had been canceled, and then two others out of Birmingham after that were canceled. The Lord definitely used the time to open my eyes to the fact that I was completely consumed with my own little world, the traditions of my family, and my own selfish desires. I'd never not been with my whole immediate family on Christmas, and our extended family rituals are something I hold in high esteem. Anyway, the point is… that was last year. It was sad. But good. I can look back with fondness on the queen sized bed that the three of us attempted to sleep in, the 12 different vegetables and turkey we enjoyed for Christmas dinner, and the constancy of the soaps streaming through the big screen. Now, I can smile with thankfulness that I'm sitting in my living room on Christmas eve, listening to my family joking and laughing around the table in the other room, that I could drive anywhere if I wanted to, and that I can sleep in my bed and wear any of my clothes. They are simple things, but I am thankful.
I've been reading in Hebrews lately. Wow. Just wow. It's so good. I challenge you to look into that book if you haven't recently. Talk about reasons to be thankful.
Yes, Christmas is about Jesus being born, but how can we celebrate the birth of Christ without thinking about the death and resurrection; the prophecy which he came to fulfill?
A baby Jesus doesn't seem to offend people much at Christmas time, but what about a high King who created the world and defeated death for all mankind because of Love? Who hates sin and loves his creation? A God who is jealous for our hearts, and vicious toward his enemies? Who died on calvary for my sake, that I may spend eternity with him in paradise?
That is the baby Jesus I celebrate this year... And that is a dang good reason to be thankful.
What Jesus do you celebrate this year?
-Jami
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Good news of great joy...
Ever wonder what happens at a home church at Christmastime?
For the children of course...
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
For the children of course...
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
Monday, November 14, 2011
Annnd…. there goes a month...
Dear readers… anyone there? I cannot blame you for not coming around anymore… I'm sorry for abandoning my little corner of cyberspace for so long. Life is flying by and I miss having the time to spend on personal creative endeavors. And lately, I've so longed to write. Alas, I cannot seem to find much spare time to set apart for it, among the many other creative pursuits.
So, instead of writing a long post tonight, I will share with you a blog post that I read earlier this evening by Michael Gungor of the band, 'Gungor.' It's subject matter is so good and true and something I've often thought about. It's a bit lengthy, but definitely worth the read.
Michael's blog post: Zombies, Wine, and Christian Music
Let me know what you think.
Peace and Blessings,
J
So, instead of writing a long post tonight, I will share with you a blog post that I read earlier this evening by Michael Gungor of the band, 'Gungor.' It's subject matter is so good and true and something I've often thought about. It's a bit lengthy, but definitely worth the read.
Michael's blog post: Zombies, Wine, and Christian Music
Let me know what you think.
Peace and Blessings,
J
Friday, October 14, 2011
derailed
There's a light up ahead,
can't see it yet- got a feeling instead.
I've been de-railed from a one-way track,
Free indeed, not looking back.
No more worry or a wondering mind,
'cause a heart split apart is a gem in a bind.
There is one who is true; not me, not you,
the healer of wounds, of which I've had a few.
Still winter must breath to bring forth the spring,
and 'til it awakens, I'm content just to be.
But when the day comes, I'll be eager to flee,
to find the adventure, the adventure for me.
can't see it yet- got a feeling instead.
I've been de-railed from a one-way track,
Free indeed, not looking back.
No more worry or a wondering mind,
'cause a heart split apart is a gem in a bind.
There is one who is true; not me, not you,
the healer of wounds, of which I've had a few.
Still winter must breath to bring forth the spring,
and 'til it awakens, I'm content just to be.
But when the day comes, I'll be eager to flee,
to find the adventure, the adventure for me.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Quoth the raven, `Nevermore'
Amelia, the genius that she is, hosted a night of whimsy…
Scarves, knee socks, hats, ties, and a pocket watch adorned.
Tea, small desserts, and lovely cupcakes were taken.
'Penelope' was watched.
'The Raven' was recited… and present.
Zombies and a kitten were seen.
Insults were hurled.
Fiction families and british accented banter ensued.
Even some serious discussion found it's way in around 1 o'clock or so.
Needless to say, it was a fun gathering.
I don't have enough photos to do the evening justice, nor are the ones I have, of great quality.
Alas, they are a small portal through which you may catch a glimpse of said festivities.
Please bear in mind that these last few were taken at peculiar hours of the morning :)
Live whimsically!
Scarves, knee socks, hats, ties, and a pocket watch adorned.
Tea, small desserts, and lovely cupcakes were taken.
'Penelope' was watched.
'The Raven' was recited… and present.
Zombies and a kitten were seen.
Insults were hurled.
Fiction families and british accented banter ensued.
Even some serious discussion found it's way in around 1 o'clock or so.
Needless to say, it was a fun gathering.
I don't have enough photos to do the evening justice, nor are the ones I have, of great quality.
Alas, they are a small portal through which you may catch a glimpse of said festivities.
 |
| David and I won most whimsically dressed and got prizes (thanks Amelia!) Though here our outfits have been compromised and we just look crazy. Yes, David is wearing socks on his ears. |
 |
| Our lovely leader. |
Please bear in mind that these last few were taken at peculiar hours of the morning :)
Live whimsically!
Monday, October 3, 2011
Dearest Mumsy and Papi...
A silly poem I wrote for my world traveling parents. Love and miss you!
Nothing is quite the same without you around,
only reflections of your living- why, they abound.
Your messes lay lonely, your projects unfinished,
the days go quite smoothly, but the quality is diminished.
Your voice, your words I'd love to hear,
I must take them for granted when you are near.
Always ready for whatever is needed,
you give of yourself time that is pleaded.
Give it a week, or maybe a couple,
and life will be normal with all of it's bustle.
But until you come back and complete what is missing,
please know, of times past, I'll be here reminiscing.
Nothing is quite the same without you around,
only reflections of your living- why, they abound.
Your messes lay lonely, your projects unfinished,
the days go quite smoothly, but the quality is diminished.
Your voice, your words I'd love to hear,
I must take them for granted when you are near.
Always ready for whatever is needed,
you give of yourself time that is pleaded.
Give it a week, or maybe a couple,
and life will be normal with all of it's bustle.
But until you come back and complete what is missing,
please know, of times past, I'll be here reminiscing.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Never be ready.
We'll never be ready,
for the days ahead.
As much as we hope
to prepare and scope.
No, we'll never be ready
like the dress made to fit.
The candles will be lit,
but we'll never be ready.
'Cause love is a lesson for all who find
a need for a reason to be unblind,
And love is something that grows in time,
amidst the thorns upon the vine.
To learn is to live,
until we come home.
And though we'll never be ready,
love's made a way to the throne.
for the days ahead.
As much as we hope
to prepare and scope.
No, we'll never be ready
like the dress made to fit.
The candles will be lit,
but we'll never be ready.
'Cause love is a lesson for all who find
a need for a reason to be unblind,
And love is something that grows in time,
amidst the thorns upon the vine.
To learn is to live,
until we come home.
And though we'll never be ready,
love's made a way to the throne.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
that person.
Most days I just wish I was Different. Better. Able.
Wouldn't it be great to be one of those great people?
That's pretty much my thought process.
I wish that when I had a sudden flood of emotion or joy,
I'd have the ability to sit down and compose a gorgeous tune,
or paint a masterpiece- original and personal,
or write a short story or poem, full of allegory and meaning.
Because it's all in there, it just doesn't know how to come out.
Most days I think, "If only. If only I was that kind of person."
Then some days, not nearly as often, in fact, very rarely do they come- I think, "What if I was that kind of person? Would I wish to be another kind? Would I really be satisfied in my abilities. Is that true life? Is that where 'it's at'?"
Probably not. I'd probably have other desires, like of being an average person who dreamed a lot and hoped for adventure- like the person I really am. Though, I'll never really know…
The point is that no matter who we are or what we can't do, we'll always be wanting to be something else.
Joy comes from being fully satisfied in Christ. And living fully comes from joy.
Dissatisfaction in who I am striving to be points to something deeper- attempting to be something on my own- searching for fulfillment elsewhere than in Christ.
Sometimes being a person is hard. And makes me tired.
The fact that I know the creator of the universe… now that is a reason to live, and live fully.
-j
Wouldn't it be great to be one of those great people?
That's pretty much my thought process.
I wish that when I had a sudden flood of emotion or joy,
I'd have the ability to sit down and compose a gorgeous tune,
or paint a masterpiece- original and personal,
or write a short story or poem, full of allegory and meaning.
Because it's all in there, it just doesn't know how to come out.
Most days I think, "If only. If only I was that kind of person."
Then some days, not nearly as often, in fact, very rarely do they come- I think, "What if I was that kind of person? Would I wish to be another kind? Would I really be satisfied in my abilities. Is that true life? Is that where 'it's at'?"
Probably not. I'd probably have other desires, like of being an average person who dreamed a lot and hoped for adventure- like the person I really am. Though, I'll never really know…
The point is that no matter who we are or what we can't do, we'll always be wanting to be something else.
Joy comes from being fully satisfied in Christ. And living fully comes from joy.
Dissatisfaction in who I am striving to be points to something deeper- attempting to be something on my own- searching for fulfillment elsewhere than in Christ.
Sometimes being a person is hard. And makes me tired.
The fact that I know the creator of the universe… now that is a reason to live, and live fully.
-j
Saturday, August 27, 2011
a higher lesson.
Yesterday, I finished filling the journal I've written in for quite some time now. Kind of a momentous occasion. I don't free write near as often as I'd like, but the stuff I do have from the past few years is so special. I love looking back and seeing the way God has changed me and answered my seeking heart. But, sometimes I just feel like I've gone full circle and I'm back where I was, with a heavy heart and regrets.
Just opened up to this entry, well this is part of it. Often my journal entries evolve into prayers. How relevant this is in my life now…
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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June 7th 2008
You and only you know my heart, my deepest secrets. Creator of my inmost being; lover of my soul. Life is nothing without you, God- what joy can come after I've tasted you? What joy besides yours, my king?
Psalm 51
v. 10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
v.12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.
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What joy indeed? None. The ongoing lesson of true satisfaction being found in him only, continues.
*sigh* Am I the only one who deals with this? Surely not…. hopefully.
He is faithful.
-j
Monday, August 15, 2011
Windy Words.
Lana and I went to Boone to visit our incredible Grandparents and Aunt and Uncle and cousins. Then we came to the appropriately named windy city, Chicago. Just for fun. The great thing about having a sister like Lana is that we're so similar, so when it comes to traveling, and adventuring we are pretty great. ha.
I've been to a lot of cities in my twenty years and I've been to Chicago twice before, also. (Well, if you count O'hare, I've been here many times… but that's irrelevant…)
In big cities, there is a lot for the senses. Lots of good, pretty, pleasant, and new things. But there are also plenty of ugly, dirty, sad, scary things as well. I continue to struggle with the 'homeless' dilemma. But perhaps that's for another time. When I'm placed in the midst of large amounts of people, (and in small amounts or more dispersed crowds- it just hits me harder with the masses) I can't help but wonder about individuals… wonder about their pasts, their wounds, their hearts. I hate thinking about the hurt and pain in their lives. I hate thinking that so many people don't know Jesus. Don't know how much they're worth. Don't know the truth. Don't have joy and security in Salvation. So as much as I enjoy visiting cities and traveling, I also feel burdened.
Now that I've got you all somber and thoughtful, I'll share a few photos of the trip.
A couple more things first…
We've spent some time in Starbucks here, too. Apparently, the toilets are just as loud here, but the people are also just as friendly. So all is well with that.
My friend, Zach was in Chicago at the same time as me, attending a geek, comic convention- we were even a few blocks away from each other at one point, but we never were able to meet up. I was sad about that, but life happens, I guess.
Live today.
-j
I've been to a lot of cities in my twenty years and I've been to Chicago twice before, also. (Well, if you count O'hare, I've been here many times… but that's irrelevant…)
In big cities, there is a lot for the senses. Lots of good, pretty, pleasant, and new things. But there are also plenty of ugly, dirty, sad, scary things as well. I continue to struggle with the 'homeless' dilemma. But perhaps that's for another time. When I'm placed in the midst of large amounts of people, (and in small amounts or more dispersed crowds- it just hits me harder with the masses) I can't help but wonder about individuals… wonder about their pasts, their wounds, their hearts. I hate thinking about the hurt and pain in their lives. I hate thinking that so many people don't know Jesus. Don't know how much they're worth. Don't know the truth. Don't have joy and security in Salvation. So as much as I enjoy visiting cities and traveling, I also feel burdened.
Now that I've got you all somber and thoughtful, I'll share a few photos of the trip.
We're heading home today. Which means, returning to work, reality, normal life.
I'm always peppered with a mixture of feelings upon the return from an adventure away from home.
A couple more things first…
We've spent some time in Starbucks here, too. Apparently, the toilets are just as loud here, but the people are also just as friendly. So all is well with that.
My friend, Zach was in Chicago at the same time as me, attending a geek, comic convention- we were even a few blocks away from each other at one point, but we never were able to meet up. I was sad about that, but life happens, I guess.
 |
| Yes, that's the amazing Misty May Treanor! :) |
Live today.
-j
Sunday, August 7, 2011
love everlasting.
How can you love me? I am unfaithful.
How can you care for me? I have turned from you.
How can you see me? I am invisible.
How can you help me? I am unwilling.
How can you keep me? I run away.
How can you treasure me? I am flawed.
How can you use me? I am inadequate.
How can you want me? I am dirty.
How can you rescue me? I am lost.
And yet, you do.
Your love astounds me.
I am broken. But, I am yours.
 |
| Photo Credit: Lana Jensen |
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Social Media for a higher purpose?… and some typical nonsense.
Hello there.
I've been thinking… 'A dangerous pastime, I know.' Name that show?
Okay, I'm getting super distracted by the music I'm listening to. I have a hard time multi-tasking sometimes. I also have to use extra restraint to keep myself still when I'm sitting in Starbucks, listening to lively music that only I can hear.
Back to thinking…
How much time do we spend social networking? I mean really, let's be honest… how many hours a day? minutes a day? days a week? I think it's safe to say that, well- I'll just make this about my own life- I waste way too much time on Facebook, which is my social media website of choice, currently. Oh, yes. I was a tweeter once, but out of good intending, self will, I ended that. What a sacrifice. (I'm completely mocking myself, if you weren't with me there.)
So we've established that plenty of time is passed online doing not-so-important things. What if we-- excuse me-- I, what if I spent more of that time learning, educating myself, and sharing information about real life- issues, topics, current events, truth. I've been challenged with this idea recently and would really like to act on it more regularly than I have in the past. I mean, with Facebook, or any social networking site, we really have a huge opportunity to get information or ideas out there to get people thinking. I'm seeing how many chances I miss, simply because I'm too busy living in my own little world where everything I see and do goes through the tunnel of 'how does/will this affect me?'
Just like in real life, I don't want to miss opportunities to share truth and life with other people. And on Facebook, that could be through posting facts about abortion, opportunities for serving, encouragement through words… etc.
I want to be bold for what I believe and take a stand for truth. I want to be a leader in the places I am. Facebook and Blogspot are where I am very often. Why should I be a lukewarm, quiet crowd member when I have been given the gift of life, with a purpose to share the truth and be a spark of hope in a dark world… in this case, a cyber-world.
Does any of this resonate with you?
Let's talk about it.
Also, I'm hoping to be posting much more consistently on here and on my website blog- theblueroom
<3
J
I've been thinking… 'A dangerous pastime, I know.' Name that show?
Okay, I'm getting super distracted by the music I'm listening to. I have a hard time multi-tasking sometimes. I also have to use extra restraint to keep myself still when I'm sitting in Starbucks, listening to lively music that only I can hear.
Back to thinking…
How much time do we spend social networking? I mean really, let's be honest… how many hours a day? minutes a day? days a week? I think it's safe to say that, well- I'll just make this about my own life- I waste way too much time on Facebook, which is my social media website of choice, currently. Oh, yes. I was a tweeter once, but out of good intending, self will, I ended that. What a sacrifice. (I'm completely mocking myself, if you weren't with me there.)
So we've established that plenty of time is passed online doing not-so-important things. What if we-- excuse me-- I, what if I spent more of that time learning, educating myself, and sharing information about real life- issues, topics, current events, truth. I've been challenged with this idea recently and would really like to act on it more regularly than I have in the past. I mean, with Facebook, or any social networking site, we really have a huge opportunity to get information or ideas out there to get people thinking. I'm seeing how many chances I miss, simply because I'm too busy living in my own little world where everything I see and do goes through the tunnel of 'how does/will this affect me?'
Just like in real life, I don't want to miss opportunities to share truth and life with other people. And on Facebook, that could be through posting facts about abortion, opportunities for serving, encouragement through words… etc.
I want to be bold for what I believe and take a stand for truth. I want to be a leader in the places I am. Facebook and Blogspot are where I am very often. Why should I be a lukewarm, quiet crowd member when I have been given the gift of life, with a purpose to share the truth and be a spark of hope in a dark world… in this case, a cyber-world.
Does any of this resonate with you?
Let's talk about it.
Also, I'm hoping to be posting much more consistently on here and on my website blog- theblueroom
<3
J
Monday, July 18, 2011
a silly sunday story.
My Sunday afternoon in the studio- sorting out treasure, cleaning, and visiting with Jose.
ha!
Not ready for Monday…
-J
Saturday, June 25, 2011
throw 'em out the winda.
As good as my intentions are for planning and executing thought out, pointed posts… often times they just aren't realistic. They aren't me. When I opened up my computer a few minutes ago, I was not planning on blogging, yet here I am!
I'm learning that's how life is a lot of times. I can have an idea in my head about how I think it should look, how I'd like it to play out, the things I want to do, people I want to see, places I want to go.
God usually has other plans. Way better ones. I want to strive to be so in love with him and so close to his spirit that his dreams become my dreams, his plans become my plans, his life becomes my life.
I say "I want to strive," because saying "I strive" would not be true. And truth is something that matters.
This is about the twentieth time I've written this post, but it's true. And I will keep saying it.
Life is for living, and I desperately want to do that, gracefully, humbly, righteously, courageously, lovingly, and as always, adventurously.
I bid you farewell for now.
I am off to go visit urban gardens in KC with my Mother. Fun times ahead!
And if you missed it before, don't forget to check out my new site: theblueroom :)
What is new with you?
<3
J
I'm learning that's how life is a lot of times. I can have an idea in my head about how I think it should look, how I'd like it to play out, the things I want to do, people I want to see, places I want to go.
God usually has other plans. Way better ones. I want to strive to be so in love with him and so close to his spirit that his dreams become my dreams, his plans become my plans, his life becomes my life.
I say "I want to strive," because saying "I strive" would not be true. And truth is something that matters.
This is about the twentieth time I've written this post, but it's true. And I will keep saying it.
Life is for living, and I desperately want to do that, gracefully, humbly, righteously, courageously, lovingly, and as always, adventurously.
I bid you farewell for now.
I am off to go visit urban gardens in KC with my Mother. Fun times ahead!
And if you missed it before, don't forget to check out my new site: theblueroom :)
What is new with you?
<3
J
Thursday, June 16, 2011
phineas and theblueroom
Go read Numbers 25:6-13
Thoughts?
I have a lot.
Lord, make me zealous like Phineas, willing and courageous to be your vessel- to further your kingdom and save your people.
In other news, much less important in comparison, but quite exciting for me… I finally started my art website. It's not much now, but take a look if you want: theblueroomventures, and let me know what you think.
I still plan to write on here, as well, in a more personal, whatever-i-feel-like sort of fashion. And hopefully more often than I have been.
I do hope life is giving you plenty of adventures and stories to tell.
-J
Thursday, May 19, 2011
blue skies.
Hopefully soon, I will write a 'for real' blog post, like old times. I definitely have the material for it.
For now, at 1:01 A.M. -- throat sore, body tired, mind faint at the prospect of the hours of rehearsing this weekend will demand, and heart heavy with many questions and worries, I'll share with you this…
{On days of gray
When doubt clouds my view
It's so hard to see past my fears
My strength seems to fade
And it's all I can do
To hold on, 'til the light reappears
Still, I believe though some rain's bound to fall
That you're here next to me
And you're over it all}
Grant Cunningham; Matt Huesmann
For now, at 1:01 A.M. -- throat sore, body tired, mind faint at the prospect of the hours of rehearsing this weekend will demand, and heart heavy with many questions and worries, I'll share with you this…
{On days of gray
When doubt clouds my view
It's so hard to see past my fears
My strength seems to fade
And it's all I can do
To hold on, 'til the light reappears
Still, I believe though some rain's bound to fall
That you're here next to me
And you're over it all}
Grant Cunningham; Matt Huesmann
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Monday, May 16, 2011
Last week.
Hello there.
I'm going to share a few things I did this past week. I didn't get past making the notebook… meaning, I decorated it and then worked on other stuff and it's still blank :) Oh well. I'll just post a few photos.
One evening, my art teacher told me I was going to paint with oil. I've done this one time before and discovered how little patience I have. ha! Anyway, I gave it another try and had fun just working with a few shades. Simple. It makes me think of the ocean, or the sky. Deep and Dark.
The embellished notebook… pages still blank. Oops.
Headband with the same type of flowers; modeled by my lovely friend, Diana :)
As I mentioned before, I've been playing around with Elements and creating my own textures.
Here are the textures I threw together. The paper already had the nice velvet design.
I had a fun week :)
And once again, thanks to Kim Klassen for helping me not get lost in the confusion of Photoshop Elements :) I'm taking a mini e-course from her this week to learn more. Yay!
Oh! And I'm super excited about my new workbench/table and slowly evolving workspace. Photos soon, perhaps.
Thoughts?
-J
p.s. My 'Adventure' photo on flickr
I'm going to share a few things I did this past week. I didn't get past making the notebook… meaning, I decorated it and then worked on other stuff and it's still blank :) Oh well. I'll just post a few photos.
One evening, my art teacher told me I was going to paint with oil. I've done this one time before and discovered how little patience I have. ha! Anyway, I gave it another try and had fun just working with a few shades. Simple. It makes me think of the ocean, or the sky. Deep and Dark.
The embellished notebook… pages still blank. Oops.
Headband with the same type of flowers; modeled by my lovely friend, Diana :)
As I mentioned before, I've been playing around with Elements and creating my own textures.
Here are the textures I threw together. The paper already had the nice velvet design.
I had a fun week :)
And once again, thanks to Kim Klassen for helping me not get lost in the confusion of Photoshop Elements :) I'm taking a mini e-course from her this week to learn more. Yay!
Oh! And I'm super excited about my new workbench/table and slowly evolving workspace. Photos soon, perhaps.
Thoughts?
-J
p.s. My 'Adventure' photo on flickr
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