Photo of the Week - June 29, 2008

Friends,

This Saturday, it was a Girl's Night Out honoring friend and Bride To Be, Jennifer. We painted flower pots, went out for dinner and dessert, and hit the local pub to toast our friend. The sash, tiara, and the flashing button made for interesting conversation as we toured the town.

Today I went to an all church worship service and picnic. There were games and activities for the kids and a chance to talk and enjoy the afternoon for the adults. With the 4th of July just around the corner I couldn't help but include the shot of this little one getting her face painted. Just too cute!

Have a blessed week. For those in the US, enjoy the holiday on Friday!

Cheers!
Jada

ps. My apologies for any SPAM you got from me regarding a Hi5 networking site. I opened an invite that I had received and without knowing, sent an e-mail to everyone in my Gmail account. Opps!

Video of the Week - June 24, 2008

Yes, that is right...Video of the week. Check out my acting debut as a pew. Yes, a very unique orange pew!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=Eea1qHue1Zo


Jada

Photo of the Week - June 22, 2008

Friends,

It has been a beautiful June weekend in Peoria. After a long work week, I'm feeling quite happy, joyful, and inspired this weekend. On Saturday morning I trekked off to the downtown Peoria farmer's market to take a stab at being a vendor. I peddled greeting cards with photos I have snapped. Good news! I sold 22! I was encouraged and plan to head back to the venue with an expanded inventory next week.

Yesterday I had a "date" with friends Jason and Jennifer. We went to the local driving range to hit golf balls. It has been a LONG time since I had clubs in my hands...but who cares...we had a blast.

Today was my first "long run" with the local marathon training group. While I've run for quite awhile, this is the first time I've joined a disciplined group. 14 miles later, I'm wondering if I'm crazy or stronger for the effort. Stay tuned for the final verdict!

Be encouraged to try something new (or something you haven't tried in a long while). Have a fantastic week!

Jada

Photo of the Week - June 15, 2008

Friends,

It has been a whirlwind week of excitement. I traveled south to Country Music City, Nashville, TN. I had the opportunity to catch a Craig Morgan concert with my peers from work. It was an international group and seeing country music through the eyes of the European, Latin, and Asian crew was a fresh and fun experience! The photo was taken from my camera phone and does no justice to Craig's physique.

Yesterday, I completed the 15K in the Steamboat Classic in Peoria. It is a challenging race, yet rewarding to run it through the streets where I regularly train. Today marked the first day of Fall 08 Marathon training for me. More details of running to come.

And the bee was the sight I caught on camera after coming home from my morning run. I love summer!

Have a great week. Enjoy the flowers.

Jada

Photo of the Week - June 8, 2008

Friends,

It is a close to yet another fun filled summer weekend. As I sit now and look back on weekend, I am very content remembering each moment and the time spent with friends. After two years in Peoria, I have been quite blessed with such authentic friendships. At moments of reflection like now, I am reminded that life is much more about the "who" than the "where."

This week's photo is a snap shot from my Caterpillar training class reunion. We celebrated 11 years since we started our careers. My, the adventures we have each had since those days as new college graduates. It has been a fun adventure for us all.

Have a blessed week!

Jada

Photo of the Week - June 1, 2008

Friends and Family,

What fun and unusual entertainment I have had this week. On Thursday, I worked the early sign-in for the annual Big Brothers, Big Sisters golf outing. It was my first golf outing (no I didn't embarrass myself by trying to golf) and I had a ball. After check-in was complete, I helped sell beverages from the beer tent. I guess it was 5 o'clock somewhere! The event raised $20,000+ for the organization and was a beautiful day for the outing.

On Friday, the weather turned rainy, making for an interesting environment for the SAE Mini-Baja event being hosted at Caterpillar's demonstration center. Hundreds of college kids arrived from as far as Korea to race and compete with their cars. It was wild fun and the rain and mud and overall challenging elements made for all the more excitement.

And on Saturday, the skies opened up again and made for the perfect day to get married. I cried throughout the lovely ceremony for Jon and Chrissy Metz. I couldn't be more pleased for this couple and wish them well as they start their life together. Congratulations! In MTC063 we trust!

Enjoy the sunshine...and the rain.

Jada