Photo of the Week - January 25, 2009

Friends,

This week I was blessed with the time to have many meaningful conversations with friends. I was encouraged by many of the topics, and yet again found myself appreciating the friends in my life. See the smiling happy faces that Jennifer, Jason, Marianna, and I shared at an impromptu dinner out on Saturday night.

Jeff took me to see Slumdog Millionaire on Monday afternoon. The movie touched my heart and has stoked a fire in me to better understand the needs of those in poverty. I recommend the film to anyone who hasn't already seen it.

And, between chit chats and films, I finally got my shopping cart up and running for Weeping Willow Cards. Still Grassroots, but functional.

Have a great week. Let's all appreciate our friends!

Jada

Photo of the Week - January 18, 2009

Sometimes in life we are obligated to be adults. For example, when our plumbing breaks on Sunday AM and water collects in the basement. Other times in life we allowed to be kids. For example, when our friends beckon us for a sledding adventure on a Saturday afternoon. See the happy smiles.

The plumber will be here at 8:00 AM on Monday. I have learned today that the average washing machine uses approximately 24 gallons of water.

Enjoy the photos.

Jada

Photo of the Week - January 11, 2009

Friends,

It was back to work this week after the long holiday vacation. Luckily, I enjoy my work and going back to the office was not painful...except for the first three times my mobile phone alarm went off on Monday AM. Most of my New Year Resolutions have already been broken or altered. The plan to invest in my photography in 2009 is off to a slow start considering my camera has not left my house all week. However, I have recognized the need for creative expression and investing in the creative thought process. This week I saw a Picasso, Matisse, Chagall exhibit at the Lakeview Musuem in Peoria. Ok, Ok, not exactly the most exhaustive collection of 20th century art, but definitely worth the time (1 hour) and cost (3.50)...beat that?!

http://www.lakeview-museum.org/main_gallery.html

I did snap a picture this week (with my camera phone!). Little Caden Lane was entertaining the girls at dinner on Friday night.

Have a great week. Don't fear being creative.

Jada

Photo of the Week - New Year 2009

Happy New Year!

May the possibilities of the year ahead excite and encourage you. I have had a long 2 weeks of renewal away from work and away from reality. Today, I'm heading back to the office where I left off with a well rested mind and full of commitments for the year ahead. During the past week I enjoyed the chance to sleep a little later, cook a few more meals, exercise a bit more, pray without hurry, and spend free time with friends.

Here are a few photos from the week off. New Year's Eve was celebrated at my house with friends from work and church. We played games, toasted the New Year, and had a ball. The 2nd picture shows that Jeff and I had good team spirit for the UofI vs. Purdue basketball game. I wasn't upset when Purdue lost on Thursday.

Happy New Year!

Jada