Photo of the Week - March 31, 2008

Friends!

This week work allowed me to return to Brazil for a quick visit. I had the opportunity to visit universities in Sao Paulo to discussing employee recruiting opportunities for Caterpillar. It was a phenomenal experience to be back in Brazil and especially Sao Paulo. In some odd way, the chaos of the city left me with a happy heart. Certainly it had everything to do with the fun loving and generous spirit of the Brazilians.

I had the chance to catch up with friends on Saturday. This week's photo shows me with my "Brazilian Sisters," Rosana and Cris. (Clau, we missed you!). It was great to meet Rosana's fiance, Rodrigo too. After we finished our coffee we went to the shoe store in the back of the picture. Of course, I couldn't come back from Brazil without a few treasures!

Have a blessed week.

Jada

Photo of the Week - Easter Sunday

Friends and Family,

It has been a glorious Easter Weekend. It started off with a dose of creativity with friends as we decorated Easter Eggs. Check out the masterpieces in the photo! After our decorating, we took time to reflect on the meaning of the Easter celebration and the gift of grace we have received. The time provided a few nice reminders...I am never too old for Easter Eggs. Yellow + Blue = Green!

May the hope of Easter linger in our hearts.

Jada

Photo of the Week - March 16, 2008

Friends and Family,

Spring is knocking on the door and soon to arrive! Mom and Dad came into town this week for a visit and we enjoyed a lovely afternoon walk in the warm weather on Friday. But what brought them to Peoria you ask...Why it was the Queen of Country, herself...Loretta Lynn. The Kentucky native was in top form during her show in Peoria on Thursday night. We had a great time in our 7th row seats...YES, 7th row. I bought the tickets just minutes after they went on sale!

Enjoy the photos.

Enjoy the week ahead...may it be filled with new beginnings.

Jada

Photo of the Week - March 9, 2008

Friends,

It has been a week filled with many blessings. My manager and I traveled safely to St. Louis through some rough winter weather on Monday and Tuesday. Thankfully I was NOT driving and we made it safely. On Thursday I had a fun and creative "girls night out" with some of the gals from Caterpillar as we painted pottery at Fired Up! in Peoria.

This Saturday I went hiking at Starved Rock State Park. The frozen waterfalls were amazing. Even more amazing is the fact that I didn't fall on the icy trails...not even once!

Have a great start to your week. Could it be Spring is around the corner for the Midwest US?

Jada

Photo of the Week - March 2, 2008

Friends!

Mardi Gras was alive and well in Peoria this weekend. Big Brothers, Big Sisters held their annual dinner on Friday. I took Beckie and her little brother Jr. (Miguel). It was hosted at the new Embassy Suites in East Peoria. What a wonderful event in all dimensions... Fun company, nice environment, and a worthy cause. Check out our beads and masks; We were decked out for the event!

Enjoy the kids in your life!

Jada

And a Happy Birthday to Jill and Happy Anniversary to Mom and Dad!