wes: true stories

One time I woke up in the middle of the night to tapping on my roof. I kind of got scared because in the exorcist they hear tapping in the attic before that girl gets possessed. The tapping continued for a short while until I heard a slide and then a thump. I thought to myself "hmm that was weird" and went back to sleep.

The next morning when I went out to go to school I saw a squirrel with a tiny top hat and tiny tap shoes laying on the ground dead. He should know that tap dancing on a slanted roof is dangerous.



Once I saw an ostrich at the zoo, it looked like a friendly ostrich so I decided to pat him on the head. The ostrich didn't like my hand apparently so he bit it off. Feeling a little angry and a bit sad I decided to jump over the fence to get my hand back. I chased the ostrich all over creation until I finally caught up with him. It has been said that ostriches can run up to 40 miles an hour and since I caught him that must mean I can run over 40 miles an hour. When I caught up to him I jumped on him and threw him to the ground. I decided that I would use the old eye for an eye tooth for a tooth rule and I tried to bite off his hand, but he didn't have one so I bit my other one off, and we had a hand eating contest.

The ostrich and I decided that hands were too hard to eat because they have too many bones. So I went to the restroom to sew my hands back on. It was nearly impossible sewing my hand back on because I didn't have anything to hold the needle and thread with.

Blog owner's note: I learned about tap dancing on a slanted roof the hard way too.

introducing: wes, again

Fortunately I totally called that Wes would say something to me about how Lydia got two blogs, so I told him that he could write today's. I am glad that I came up with this (genious) plan, and that it all panned out. You'll see why when you read his blog.

lydia: the sequel

i read before i go to bed. it's helps me clear my mind and fall asleep. if it's a really good book, i usually stay up way too late reading and then regret my decision in the morning.

i recently had my wisdom teeth taken out and i kept them. they're sitting on my desk. i like to look at them. i only got to keep two of them and i wonder how creepy it would be if i made earrings out of them.

my dad bought me a book called "make money not excuses: every woman's guide to getting really, really, rich." i don't read it. it looks boring. the woman on the cover does have a purse full of money though and that's appealing. only because there's a woman at work who wants to go to italy and i want to send her there.

i have a lot of pens. most of them are red. i like writing in red, it makes me feel dangerous.

i'm a huge fan of high school musical. call me crazy,but i love it!

my dad is the funniest man in the world. everything he says makes me laugh. here are some of his quotes from car shopping:
Salesman: are you here for the big car sale?
Dad: no, i'm here for the free hot dogs.

me: dad, are you going to help me haggle prices?
dad: (very serious voice) if you don't mind seeing me get ugly.

the end

introducing: lydia, again

Lydia is posting again for me. She is great.

I'd also like to update her last blog. Lydia has fufilled one of her dreams by driving my brother's truck. Kudos to my dad for remembering this and making her do it! We also listened to Brad Paisley. Went "off roading." One of the puddles she drove through splashed my arm that was out the window. She drove with one hand on, one hand out the window. Also made a 3 point turn and reversed. Basically trying to tell you that she is a pro.

Thanks, brother.

luke: luke

Blog owner's note: Apparently Luke was disappointed in his efforts. I, however, am not. I'm right, of course.

introducing: luke

I was debating several ways to introduce Luke. It included pictures of what happens when he and Adam steal your camera. It also included some pictures of what happens when you put Adam and Luke together (ex: matching outfits, crazy dances, etc.)

Luke and I were supervisors at a summer camp together. Luke cracks me up. I think that I should call him a randomly creative humorist. Or something.

I also want to claim part (or whole) responsibility for his blog.

I don't like mustaches. They are creepy (on most people). So when "Mustache Monday" rolled around every week I was forced to stay away from my guy friends. When Luke (finally) shaved his he put it in a bag and made me touch it. I don't remember the ultimatum, but it must have been pretty good. I also have a picture of that.

sarah: no boxes

As some of you know, I am just finishing up a year-long internship at Willow Creek. It has, by far, been one of the greatest gifts God has given me and my life has been completely changed by the things I have learned about myself and about God this year.

As I’ve been explaining to the people who ask, the biggest takeaway from the year has been what God’s love is like and the truth/freedom that comes from experiencing it. God has continually showed me his thoughts and love towards me through powerful experiences, through subtle whispers in my heart, through conversations with others, through gifts, through creation, through song, and countless other ways. And my heart is filled because – yesterday- actually, God showed me his love in a really cool way.

Yesterday I drove down to Lincoln Park because I had a lunch meeting with two guys (curt and joseph) from a church down there. On the drive down, I got a little nervous because my support has/had run out for the month meaning that I didn’t have money to buy lunch. I know that it’s usually assumed that if you have a lunch meeting set-up with someone, that they – usually- would pay….but I’m new to this, so I was unsure if that was going to happen. I felt SO silly (and trust me, I told God that) but I prayed and asked God that he would provide lunch for me somehow, because I had no way to supply it for myself and would have been embarrassed if lunch was NOT provided, and I had no way to buy it. I asked that He would put it on their hearts to pay for me, or that we would just be having lunch from the church – or something along those lines. (I giggled a little when I prayed for this, because, like I said- I felt it to be a little silly). I prayed for many other things too – more important things in my mind – and went to the meeting.

So we sat down at the restaurant and began our conversation. But as we began ordering, I felt the nervousness again because I didn’t know how I was going to be able to pay for the lunch. Well, we ordered and continued talking – and after a while – began eating the food that was brought to us.

In the middle of our meal the waiter came to us and said, “I just wanted to let you know that someone actually picked up the bill for you. So enjoy!” The two pastors were completely astonished and used phrases like: “No way man!” “What?! Who could it have been?” “That’s crazy!!!” I just sat there laughing to myself because my prayer (as silly as it was) had been heard. The two guys I was with assumed it must have been someone from their church and one of them – Joseph- immediately decided he would walk around the restaurant so he could see exactly who it was that did this for them/us. After patrolling the restaurant, he sat back down and said “you know what….I walked around the entire restaurant, looked everywhere, and saw NO ONE that I knew or recognized. I don’t know how our bill was paid!” And again, I giggled to myself – because – I knew EXACTLY who it was….

It makes me smile SO very much to see how God heard my prayer – as little as it seemed- and provided beyond what I needed/expected. What an awesome thing that He would not ONLY provide lunch for me, but also for the people with me! (God’s just awesome like that). It shows and reminds me that God loves me enough to listen to every word I speak to Him, that He loves me enough to give - when I deserve it and when I don’t, and that He loves me enough keep his promise to me (that he WILL take care of me). And you know what…..He’ll does the same for YOU too.

Blog owner's note: :)

introducing: sarah

I love Sarah's voice. It isn't the only thing I love about her, just what I thought I would start with. You can hear her singing with Wes in his song "Perfect From Now On." I wish I had a recording of the song that she wrote, too. Pretty soon she will be my roommate and I can make her sing it to me every morning. Also she is going to sing me to sleep at night. Every time I mention this she says that it will be weird to hover over my bed at night while she sings me to sleep.

Did anyone hear me say that? I think that singing me to sleep and hovering over my bed are two different things. Please tell me it is so!

I think the only type of animal that Sarah doesn't like is goats. Goats are among the top animals that I don't like. Maybe only beaten by cats. She really loves cats though, which is ok because I love her and she thought my "goodbye kitty" coasters were funny anyway.

Sarah is AMAZING. I am blessed to know her... much less be her friend.. and future roommate. I am so excited to live with this girl and learn from her. (And have dance parties, watch old movies, play games, etc.) Yesterday she called me up because she wanted to hang out. I was thrilled. Can't even tell you.

introducing: michele

Michele is my cousin and friend. We are two weeks apart which means we were in the same grade, at the same school. I should mention for you suburbanites that when you live in a small town, that means that you go to preschool through high school together. Michele also lived down the road from me.

I wanted Michele to come over to play ALL of the time. When my mom said no I remember telling her that when I had kids I would let them have Michele over whenever they wanted. So.. Michele.. warning that if I ever have kids you are at their beck and call so I can "show" my mom.

When we had a flood come through our town everyone ("everyone" being: Michele's aunt/uncle that live a mile away, her family, my family, and our grandparents who live in between us) came together to work towards getting things back in shape (clearing debris, fixing fences, chasing cows). While the grown-ups fixed fences the kids were concerned with saving the fish out of the road since we had a small niagra falls form in the (gravel) road and washed a small pond in there. Apparently we didn't save all the fish because I do remember somewhat of a smell for a couple of days/weeks.

I have so many great memories with this girl. I think I will always think of her when I see the number "11" and how she humbly dominated all of Dakota sports.

Michele has been there for many of my.. uh.. "Krista moments." Like the time that my grandma said "I think I lost my marbles." I think I was going for encouraging/clever when I said "Grandma, you didn't have any marbles to begin with." I meant literally, of course, but they both thought that was pretty funny.

I had all these great things to say about Michele but then I read her blog and I am too busy holding my gut because it hurts from laughing.

michele: funny stories

So, I’m Michele and I’m Krista’s cousin and friend. We were born only a couple of weeks apart and grew up in the same wonderful small area known as Epleyanna. As you can imagine we were pretty much together all of the time growing up. When I think of Krista and our great memories growing up what I remember most is playing hotel at my grandma’s house, going on walks and collecting ‘cool’ rocks to show our grandma which we mostly got from her yard, dressing up her dog Buffy in doll clothes, switching our clothes to ‘trick’ Krista’s mom in thinking that we were the other person (which Cheryl so nicely played along with…and we truly thought we fooled her…I’m pretty sure that we didn’t though) and going on creek walks (I actually pronounce the word ‘crick’ but wasn’t sure if that’s an actual word or not because I only ever hear the people of Epleyanna call it that???). That crick (I now think it must be a real word because spell check didn’t yell at me) is seriously the base of so many memories I have growing up. Like the one time that Krista, me and one of my friends went rafting and my friend peed in the raft we were all sitting in…it was pretty disgusting. But then again, how disgusting is the crick water we were wading around in anyways…my family’s cattle were always ‘relieving’ themselves of bodily functions in that water and who knows what else is in that water, but for some reason when a human pees and you are sitting in it, it’s more disgusting. There was a different time when I was about 9 or 10 years old that my older sister and I were down at the crick. She thought she’d show me this ‘cool’ trick of how here shoe floats on the water. So, she took her shoe off, placed it on the water and of course it sunk right to the bottom. She immediately started to freak out and demanded that I find her shoe. Apparently, when you lose one shoe, you are somehow disabled??? Of course this water is extremely dirty (please see above) and hard to see through. I tried to find her shoe, but had no luck. She made me carry her home. (Krista & Jodi – I’m sure you can take a pretty educated guess as to which of my older sisters would do this)

I miss those days of being a kid and care-free and just filling your time finding random things to do outside. It was always a blast and you never had to worry about stupid bills or going to work. All you did was have fun all day long and somehow all of your needs were magically met. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love my job…but how awesome would it be to not have to work??? Although, I do think I would miss my job. It can be rather entertaining sometimes. I work as a Financial Aid Specialist at Highland Community College and some of the students create for some interesting conversation. Like the other day, one of our ‘non-traditional’ (which is our nice way of saying OLD) students came up to talk with me 3 different times in one day….about nothing to do with financial aid. He was telling me about how he starts his new paper route tomorrow. He said ‘yeah, I only have about 8 routes now but before I went to prison my kids and I shared over 50!’. He continued to talk but all my mind kept wondering to was the part where he said ‘went to prison’….he acted like it was no big deal and it was just part of the conversation. There was another instance when an irate student called to ask me why he never received his loan money. I explained to him that since he wasn’t enrolled in college, he is not eligible to receive loan money from us….he called me a ‘racist’….over the phone….I’m still unsure of what race I’m against. There was another time that one of our student’s was unsure if his mom was married or not, so one of my co-workers had to call his mom to find out….turns out she was in fact married.
Go Cubs.

*Blog owner's note: No loan money if you don't enroll? I find that kind of strange.

I'm pretty sure it is a "crick." Since we lived by one and spent most of our summers IN one- we get to make the rules. I think it may have been rafting when a leech attached itself to my foot and I had a huge bruise for quite some time.

Also it is a KY-OTE. Not a KY-O-TEE. Right?

charlie: cupcakes

I used to work at a burger place in San Antonio called, Chester’s Hamburgers. Within 6 weeks of being there I began looking for a new job. I worked there for 2 years, which, to date, is still my longest time of employment at any of my jobs.

At Chester’s there was 3 managers, and towards the end, a manager trainee. The managers there were Madeline (who had hair that resembled that of an 80’s hair metal band, lots of hairspray), Michelle (who was pretty cool. Very strange, but still my favorite manager to work with), and Les (complete tool bag. Jerk. Tool bag.) The trainee that started towards the end of my long stay at Chester’s was Mitch. He was a big black man that had a car with hydraulics. He would never make it bounce, but I saw the gear, and I believe that it did.

Now, next door to the burger place was a store called, The Bottle Shop, or, at least that’s what we called it. She sold bottle. The old lady that is. And, by sold bottles, I mean, she had shelved and shelves of bottles of all types, for sale I imagine, but I never saw a single customer go in there. It was a place full of dank (I got that word off the Simpson’s. Means, dirty, sleazy place). Every day this old lady would bring over to Chester’s some home made cupcakes to sell. Simple cupcakes. Small in size with simple white frosting on top. There were in a separate case, being that we didn’t normally specialize in pastries. We would sell them for 50 cents a piece.

Dang, they were good, but I had no idea what I was eating. I knew they weren’t chocolate. The only vanilla I tasted was the frosting. And yellow cake, is, well, yellow, not brown, as these were. Often while I was working, I would throw my 50 cents into the jar she provided, and grab a cupcake. Sometimes, if I didn’t have 50 cents on me, I would help myself to one anyway, justifying that the manager I was working with was a tool, and I didn’t care if I broke a rule or two. It was Les.

The taste of the cupcakes always surprised me. It was so unfamiliar, yet so delicious. I never could figure it out.

I wound up finally getting a new job, after my senior year of high school ended. Quitting Chester’s was such a freeing experience that I couldn’t wait to tell my Algebra II teacher, Mr. Rathburn, who often went in to visit me while I was working. When I went in to pick up my last paycheck, Les asked me if I had my name tag to turn in. I said, no, I didn’t know I needed to bring it back. Being it was a simple, no-more-than-a-dollar piece of plastic with my name printed off of a label maker. He said since I didn’t have it, then I couldn’t have my check. So I drove the thirty minutes home and thirty minutes back to trade my name tag for my paycheck.

I’ve been back to Chester’s maybe a time or two since quitting. Later in life I went to a birthday celebration that had an unusual looking cake. Hesitantly, I tasted it. It was the same kind of cake as the old lady’s cupcakes: Carrot.

introducing: charlie

Charlie!

Well, Charlie thought my guest bloggers idea was so cool that he posted on his own blog that if people wanted to write, they could.

So I did.

Then I realized that I said everything on his blog that I wanted to say in my introduction so I am going to include a link to his blog right here.

This is not a picture of Charlie and I. It is a picture of Aaron and Charlie (in that order). Charlie, we need some pictures together to make it look like we are friends or something.

lynn: irreplaceable

To the left
To the left

To the left
To the left

Everything you own in the box to the left
In the closet, thats my stuff
Yes, if I bought it, then please don't touch

And keep talking that mess, thats fine
Could you walk and talk, at the same time?
And its my name thats on that jag
So go move your bags, let me call you a cab S

tanding in the front yard, telling me
How I'm such a fool, talking 'bout
How I'll never ever find a man like you
You got me twisted Y

ou must not know 'bout me
You must not know 'bout me I
could have another you in a minute
Matter fact, he'll be here in a minute

You must not know 'bout me
You must not know 'bout me
I can have another you by tomorrow S
o don't you ever for a second get to thinkin'
You're irreplaceable

So go ahead and get gone
Call up that chick, and see if shes home
Oops I bet you thought, that I didn't know
What did you think I was putting you out for?
Because you was untrue
Rolling her around in the car that I bought you
Baby, drop them keys
Hurry up, before your taxi leaves

Standing in the front yard, telling me
How I'm such a fool, talking 'bout
How I'll never ever find a man like you
You got me twisted

You must not know 'bout me
You must not know 'bout me
I could have another you in a minute
Matter fact, he'll be here in a minute

You must not know 'bout me Y
ou must not know 'bout me
I'll have another you by tomorrow S
o don't you ever for a second get to thinkin'
You're irreplaceable

So since I'm not your everything How about I'll be nothing? nothing at all to you
Baby I won't shed a tear for you
I won't lose a wink of sleep
Cause the truth of the matter is
Replacing you is so easy

To the left to the left
To the left to the left

You can pack all your bags we're finished
Cause you made your bed now lay in it
I could have another you by tomorrow
Don't you ever for a second get to thinkin' You're irreplaceable

Although Beyonce’s up-beat song with some decent harmony is a fun listen (I will admit, it is on the playlist that I run to), her message couldn’t be more demeaning. The other day I took a minute to actually listen to the lyrics and was appalled. I guess there is some controversy over the actual author but it doesn’t really matter who wrote it.

To me, the song goes against Christianity’s core, which is love and forgiveness, and ultimately makes relationships solely a selfish endeavor. It eludes that the second you are hurt or not the other persons first priority, it’s over. The main phrase “to the left” belittles the person to almost nothing and she harshly declares never to think that you are irreplaceable.

I know, I know—this is just a song. But I honestly think that it is a pretty blunt wake-up call to what our culture thinks and how we view each other. I mean, if someone can make a hit song saying that and no one flips out, what does that say about our value of life? What’s worse, are there people who actually believe this? In either position, Beyonce’s or the poor guy who she was “dating”, you are either so full of yourself that there is no one who can tell you otherwise or you feel like you are the scum of the earth and could never make a difference or be someone.

In a book renouncing the wishy-washy “love”, lies from people we trust that we so easily believe, and romantic psyches from the media, Brennan Manning brings the message that we are all broken and nothing without God but that by his grace he calls us his children who are loved unconditionally and eternally.

"All religious and political systems, Right and Left alike, are the work of human beings. Abba's children will not sell their birthright for any mess of pottage, conservative or liberal. They hold fast to their freedom in Christ to live the gospel-uncontaminated by cultural dreck, political flotsam, and the filigreed hypocrisies of bullying religion."--Brennan Manning from Abba's Child

How much more beautiful would the world be if we could look at each other with authentic love and care for each other out of genuine interest in seeing the other succeed? How much would change if difference became something to be celebrated and explored and uniqueness was an expression of the greatness of our God? How much freedom would we feel if the media didn’t dictate the standards anymore? How much beauty would we find if we didn’t have to all dress, think and act the same?
"May God deliver us from self-righteous judging and make us, instead, merciful carriers of Christ's salvation and freedom everywhere we go."--Jim Cymbala

Someone who I have deep admiration and respect for, who inspires me and challenges me, who lived what she preached and whose profound words and actions still impact lives today is Mother Teresa. She understood the huge value that every person has and lived her life showing it. She selflessly gave dignity to those who were treated as if they had none. She desperately served the poorest of the poor with a heart so full of compassion. The worth she gave each person she came into contact with was not from her but from someone much bigger who gave her the strength and wisdom.

“Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat.”--Mother Teresa

“Jesus said love one another. He didn't say love the whole world.”--Mother Teresa

Finally, there were few things Jesus stressed more than love during his time of ministry. It was the essence of his messages and the motivation of his actions.

John 13:34A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.

Romans 12:10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.

I would encourage you to read all of this Psalm where David is understanding God’s intimate desire for him because he is a exclusive and magnificent creation of His!

Psalm 139:13-14 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

Whether we are in Beyonces’ position or on the receiving end may we strive to love first and live freely, admitting our faults, knowing our immeasurable value to God, and showing each other just how precious God made each and every one of us. May our attitudes reflect hearts full of love. And may we live with integrity giving dignity to all with our identity rooted in Christ.

introducing: lynn

This girl is absolutely amazing (really, amazing). I love going to breakfast with her (especially at Le Peep). She loves camp (which is probably when I knew we'd be friends). She works at a coffee place (another good sign). One time we went rock climbing (we did rock climb.. but we also did a lot of chatting). There was a cool little hide out place (that also had really soft mats.. not that we were laying on them because we spent the ENTIRE time climbing). She is solid and funny (in no particular order). Soon we will be at Royal Family Kids Camp together (I can't wait). This girl is a challenger (herself and you.. so watch out. And get to know her!) Lynn- let's hang out soon (please).

My life is in some sort of disarray (you can tell because I can't find the rockclimbing pictures)!
I'll try to fix it soon (or we could hang out and take some new pictures...)

hmm..

I am almost ready to leave for a trip to Wisconsin for some fishing with my family and Lydia and Danielle. I am really pumped about it but not sure how I am going to do Sunday's blog post. Hopefully I can grab some internet or else you'll have four to read on Monday. Be ready!!

Also I will take this blog space to thank all of you that have participated. I feel loved, blessed, and entertained!

ben: boats and bears

This is one of my favorite "Krista" stories.

One summer when we worked together it came to be the Fourth of July and seven of us on staff at Camp Manitoqua decided to travel North to the Kappers family cottage on Lake Mary in Northern WI. Well it was a good trip North. The guys stopped at Kappers' house South and the gals stayed with Katie for the day just North of Milwaukee. Anyways the next day rolled around and things QUICKLY deteriorated.

We arrived at the cottage safe and sound and proceeded to buy fishing licenses that we wouldn't even use, and eventually we left to go out on...the boat. The boat was a 1977 wooden motor boat that was kind of usable for skiing etc...but more useful for frustrating it's navigator than much of anything else.

Anyways we maneuvered our way around the lake a couple times before the motor stopped...and then restarted and then stopped. We were stuck 400 yards away from our dock with very little hope. Well first we tried paddling, and then we tried the motor againg...and to our surprise it began to work...and then just about 50 yards from shore it stopped and instead of ending up at the dock we ended up drifting into a lagoon of sorts that was terribly over grown with weeds. Well about 3 hours, 200 curse words, lots of sweat and a strained friendship with one of the other boat riders later we made it to shore. It ended up that I got us to shore by throwing the anchor forward then pulling us along, then taking the anchor out and throwing it forward again....this was frustrating and exhausting work...and it was made worse by the fiercely negative attitude of one member of the trip.

Well anyways after this experience I was finished with the boat and ready to eat. And after a good meal we began to think about what else to do that weekend. Well we decided that we'd travel to Lake Superior and camp out for the night up there, and that's what we did. We arrived at the Great Lake around 1:00 and after searching and praying for an hour we found a campsite that was perfect for our camping needs. We got out, set up our tent, and started a fire. It was wonderful.

The next morning Krista and I got up early and decided we'd take the "3" mile hike to the lake to see the sunrise...well that three mile hike ended up being more like 8 and it was one of the LONGEST walks in my life. BUT it was fun and when we got to the beach it was fabulous. We saw bear tracks, a beach with NO footprints, and beauty that was pristine and natural. We took a picture, sat around for a bit, and headed back to camp.

AND THEN...

IT HAPPENED...

A bear popped up out of the trees 25 feet in front of us! AND it started running towards us! I panicked...and then my hero complex kicked in and I stepped forward and pulled out....my MAGLIGHT!!! YEAH!!! TAKE THAT!!! Well the bear was OBVIOUSLY intimidated and retreated off to our left and we moved swiftly in the opposite direction. After a hefty hike back to the tent we were exhausted and exhilarated by the experience and it was one that certainly will be emblazoned in my mind for a LONG time to come!

Blog owner's note:

Things you should also know:
When we woke up in the morning we found out we camped next to a lake. Had we known that at night... well... we probably wouldn't have just went to bed.
Ben talks/swears in his sleep.
I did use the fishing licence AND pole that I bought.. I think I threw out my line when we went into the boat later that night. Probably more to use them than to catch a fish.
I thought the whole boat/not being able to get in was kind of funny but I couldn't laugh because Ben was really upset.

introducing: ben

Ben is really very tall and also a good friend. He doesn't remember the first time we met, I suppose I don't really either. However, we worked at camp together and so I do remember meeting him the second time when he didn't remember my name. He felt really bad about it and made up for it with a great friendship.

He blogged about one of my favorite events ever. One of my other favorite events is when the counselors played with the earth ball at camp. The earth ball is HUGE (6 feet in diameter). Ben (being a slight bit competitive) kicked the ball and was completely laid out. At that point I started keeping a list of everyone that fell, and how.

Ben and I always go back and forth in our friendship in jest (Ben, we are friends right now I think), but it never really waivers in reality.

I could go on about visits to NWC, a trip to Michigan for a conference I wasn't invited to, stealing a canoe on our UP trip, etc. but I suppose I will wrap it up so you'll read Ben's blog!

scotty: sports injuries

Disclaimer: This is well worth reading. Take your time so you can fully enjoy my great personality and writing skills.

Three of my favorite things in the world are sports, laughing and people getting physically injured. What happens when you put all 3 of those things together? The answer is simple…………….awesomeness! The following is my top ten list of the funniest/weirdest off-the-field sports injuries of all time.

#10) Joel Zumaya injuring his pitching arm from playing too much guitar hero.

#9) Mike Matheeny missing the MLB playoff because sliced open his hand when he tried to sheath a hunting knife.

#8) Goalie Santiago Canizares misses the World Cup because he drops a bottle of cologne on his foot….and severs a tendon.

#7) Former MLB MVP Ken Camanitti has to miss some time due to a fall from a deer stand while hunting.

#6) MLB player Terry Harper dislocates his shoulder while waving a runner home at the plate.

#5) NBA player George McCloud breaks his foot getting off the couch.

#4) MLB player Moises Alou misses the entire season after falling on the treadmill and tearing his ACL.

#3) MLB player Marty Cordova misses a few games after burning himself severely while napping in a tanning bed.

#2) Pitcher John Tudor gets angry after a bad game and punches an electric fan. (next time use your non-throwing hand if you are going to punch something with blades)

#1) This is the greatest injury of all-time. Former Cub Glenallen Hill has a bad dream about spiders, so vivid that he woke up, crashed through a glass table and fell down a flight of stairs.


I hope you enjoyed all of these unfortunate mishaps. I would love to share some of my own sports injuries, but I don’t have any good ones. Actually, I peed outside between innings when I was ten and contracted a nasty case of poison ivy. I’ll spare you the details though. Ewww!

Blog owner's note: #1 scared me because I have a friend that has night terrors every night. Be careful! I like how these injuries could happen to anyone but we get to know about them (and laugh at them) because they are famous..

introducing: scotty

It is weird for me to use his first name without his last.

He makes me laugh.

He also calls me out on stuff (no thanks to you, Scotty ___).

He likes to tell me (via email/text/etc.) that he isn't wearing pants.

Do you want to know if I believe him?

I'm not telling.

One time he sent me an email telling me about the form that his patronus (from Harry Potter) takes.

I might still have that email.

I think mine would be a toucan.

If you meet Scotty he might tell you to read the book Boundaries by Cloud and someone.

Don't do it.

Just kidding. I looked it up at the library the other day but they didn't have it. I probably would have checked it out and then had to return it in three weeks, unfortunately.

Go Cubs.

meredith: teaching

Krista once asked if I had any good stories from work. I teach pre-kindergarten (3-5 year olds) and love it…well, at least most days.
Anyway, this particular day I was rapping up a math lesson and getting the materials cleaned up. One of my students, we’ll call her Jane, walked up to me and innocently asked, “What are you doing?”
I told her I was cleaning up. Then, she asked, “What is that?”
I was holding the teacher’s manual and explained to her that the book helps me teach. Then, Jane looked up at me thinking for a minute…finally she said, “Ooohhhh, so you’re a teacher.”
“Yes, Jane, yes I am a teacher!”
Now, this might be an expected realization in September, but this was MARCH!!! So either I have taught these children everything under the sun from social skills, problem solving, letters and numbers, math skills, and pre-reading/writing skills…and I skipped the lesson on who I am and what I do, or this is just another example of how it takes some kids a little longer for things to sink in.
Talk about a humbling conversation for this “super” teacher!

*Blog owner's note: What if her name really was Jane? Then we would know the real name but we would think it was the fake name. So you couldn't really get in trouble, right? That is what I was wondering about as I read this. I think the kids at work still don't know what my job is..

introducing: meredith

Meredith,

You are hilarious. I miss you a lot. I wish that I could hear your stories about work every day. Kids are crazy and I think that yours might be especially crazy. If I had kids, I would want to move so that you could be their teacher.

I have some stories that you would enjoy from pee wee soccer. If you are ever stressed or wondering what to do- you should go to a pee wee soccer game.

How is your hubby? Remember when you came into my room and started putting on your shoes? I looked at you funny because we've put on our shoes for a number of times per day for 22 years at that point and I didn't see what was making you so giddy this particular time of putting on some shoes. Good thing I asked to find out that you had been asked out for some ice cream by Kyle. Then you kept doubting if it was a date or not but we told you it was and, of course, we were right and now you are married to him!

Did I mention that you are hilarious? I love how it is at the most random moments and just the right thing to say. I'm not sure how you do it.

And you are full of grace and wisdom. I like the person you are, a lot.

Krista

jess: stories from classrooms

Fate definitely brought Krista and I together. She fought against it, but when you are meant to be someone’s friend you can’t get away. Our freshman year of college we had a class together – Foundations of Education. Let’s just mention here that I am a shy person. Not as much now, but back then I was a quiet girl. During that class I sat by Krista and I remember specifically trying to make conversation. She fought against this, apparently I looked shady? The friendship did not actually develop until she ended up living across the hall from me our junior year. At this point she could not escape me. I was bound and determined to make her my friend. Of course, she didn’t really remember being in class with me, which is unfortunate for her because I remember everything. Like the blue watch she had freshman year. I just thought the world should know that the reason Krista and I are friends is A) because obviously we are meant to be and B) she couldn’t get away from me and my persuasive ways!

I thought to end this blog I would leave you with some stories from my classroom. I teach high school English to sophomores through seniors. There are many instances where I am attempting to teach them something and they get distracted.

While writing a newspaper article about The Great Gatsby:
Dallas: Could I write this with a British accent?
Me: How would you do that?
Dallas: I could use words like chap and fellow…

Discussing Emily Dickinson:
Ms. Rabe, what’s your inseam?

I came back to my classroom from study hall to find my 4th period class staring at the locked door. Apparently they thought that if all of them thought hard enough about the door unlocking that it actually would. This is a semi-educational moment because they got the idea from Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird.

During part of The Great Gatsby there is a section where Gatsby and Daisy (his lost love) meet again for the first time in 5 years. The class I had contained twenty-two 17 year old boys which meant that they jumped to the conclusion that Daisy and Gatsby automatically hopped into bed together the moment Nick (organized the meeting) left the cabin. In response to that I told them that I thought they were probably talking and playing checkers. The rest of the year the boys came up with tons of reasons to ask if someone was “playing checkers”. That was last year and they still like to bring that up!

In my two years of teaching I have been asked to prom quite a few times. It’s probably because they’ve heard about my awesome dance skills. My favorite moment while being asked to prom went a little like this:
Tyler: Ms. Rabe, will you go to prom with me?
(Because I am sometimes hard of hearing I thought he said Ms. Rabe what’s the problem with me?)
Me: You want me to name just one problem?
Tyler: What?
Me: You asked what your problem was…
Tyler: No, I asked you to go to prom with me, but thanks for letting me know I have lots of problems.
-Good teacher moment.

I know I have a few other stories that are probably better than these, but in my old age I can’t seem to remember them!

*Blog owner's note: What is your inseam, really?

introducing: jess

Jess befriended me junior year of college when I came back from studying in Mexico and was living on her floor. She called me silly names sometimes but she is hilarious and fun so I didn't mind all that much. I still remember when she asked me if I would be a "pip" backup singer if she did the lip sync contest. I thought that I would do anything if Jess was going to get up on stage.

I did. She did. So did Nicole. We got second our first year, and third our last. There is really no way to beat the two boys that got first both years. I will say that we were pretty amazing though. Especially the first year when Nicole and I made our own dresses.

Jess has a memory like an elephant, which is handy since elephants are her favorite animal. I don't know how she does it but she can recall the most random fact/memory at the most inopportune time (for you) and then she jabs you right where it hurts but you can't be mad because it is too funny to be mad.

I'd tell you that her personality matches her hair but she gets mad at me when I generalize that all red heads are kinda crazy/spunky, so I won't.

She plans sweet events, too. Like the time (senior year in college) that we went to the Omaha zoo and we all wore animal hats and matching shirts.

You should check out her blog. I wish she would post a little more often but I guess it limits my sideaches from laughing... so I shouldn't complain.

I have enjoyed her visits to Chicago and I am excited for the next one! ALSO thanks, Jess, for getting me hooked on Harry Potter. I've enjoyed all of our discussions and excitement about the books, and movies.

I know I lied and said I posted this yesterday, but I didn't. Oh well.

technical difficulties

We are experiencing technical difficulties.
Please stand by.




Who knows how I got this one to post! Mysterious life this is..

tiff: special to me

*blog owner's note: I wish I had all of them on video. Well, or at least audio since I mentioned that they were usually hate songs from the shower.

introducing: tiff

I haven't been using last names on blogs but it is a little weird to not do that with Tiff since I always put her first with her last. It will also be weird with Scotty. Just a heads up.

Tiff and I always yell at eachother and fake fight. She kept me sane (and crazy) while supervising day camp 2006. (We also have some very good stories from living in the same room at camp with some other girls.) Tiff has been supervising day camp for 2007 and now 2008 so I am excited that she will be around this summer even though I am too old to go and visit her in the Arc anymore. Someone will probably think I am looking for my grankids or something.

the count: counting

I love to count. ah ah ah.

Let's count things from Krista's weekend together!

2 become 1. weird.
2 songs of Alex, Katrina and Krista feeling guilty for making Jody have a dance
2 semi-scandalous messages left on Jody and Shane's honeymoon car
3 nights in a hotel with great friends
3 apple pie lattes from Smokey Row (I miss it already)
3 nights at the local bar (which is a little more than 2 times how often Krista went there during her four years of college)
4 seconds it took Krista to recover herself from a wind incident
4 great friends she got to see right away when she returned to Chicago
5 "smart snack" stands (random snacks throughout the wedding= definitely Jody's)
6 dozen donuts Krista bought (some to share!) from Jaarsma's bakery
6 dead dear on the way home (at least she deducted that some of them were deer since they were large and could not probably be any other dead animal)
-20 seconds it took Krista to miss Katrina, Alex, Jody, Jody's family, Pella, etc.
32 really good pictures spread out on Katrina, Alex, and Krista's cameras
34 pop cans on a string
40 songs of feeling happily responsible for such a fun dance
196 people she made/helped sign the guestbook
20,923 tulips still looking beautiful

*blog owner's note: I have removed all of the "ah ah ah's" so if you miss them or don't believe that this is actually from the count.. you can insert them yourself.

introducing: the count

I contacted Sesame Street. I really love that show. I think that maybe grover has always been my favorite since he is a little off. He also has a great book called "Monster at the End of this Book." If you haven't read it, I can read it to you because I have a copy on my bookshelf. Anyway, now grover is even more of a favorite because on Sesame Street he is the one in charge of going to different countries and telling you about them.

However, I asked Sesame Street to give me whoever was available. Apparently that was The Count.

tyler: southern man

When the girls get a house I am going to do all their "manly" stuff.
I have a huge smile.
People like me.
I like to country dance.
And anything country.
Including my sweet country boots.
They're stylin'.
Krista is my favorite person... ever.
I laughed really hard at/with her with the email thing.
And gave her a big hug.
And then laughed again.
And told everyone.
I have a huge heart.
Not just literally.
I went to India once.
My brother's name is Brandon.
I sleep in Wes's bed sometimes.
By sometimes I mean almost every night.
This is definitely Tyler writing this blog and NOT Krista.

*Blog owner's note: Thanks Tyler, I thought you were going to blow off your blog but I am glad that you pulled through. :)

introducing: tyler

Tyler makes me laugh a lot. He also gives good hugs and he, in a fashion, takes care of me. I don't know if he knows how much I appreciate him.

I don't remember if I told Tyler or not, but I've wanted to. He grew up with parents that owned a bar (that isn't the part that I need to tell him.. he actually knows that part). I grew up with parents that were really really mad when I went to a bar (that my friend worked at) to get pizza once.

Tyler, I like you and your accent and your southern ways and your humor and your style and your way of caring for others. Thanks.

I don't like that I had to make up your blog.

jon: macs

I haven't blogged in over a week, so here's a blog that I intended to do for my own blog but is finding a home on Johnsonville. Also, it's another good reason for Krista to buy a Mac (and for the rest of us not to steal it).

So this apple employee had her MacBook stolen but thanks to the wonders of the Leopard operating system, when a friend saw her online on said stolen computer, she was able to use the camera remotely from work to snap a picture of the thief.




After passing the picture around someone recognized him and he is now known by people around the world as the guy who you don't invite to a party without first hiding your valuables.

That's all I've got...I'm out of practice.

Blog owner's note: This post being about a mac may not effect all of you, but it definitely makes me chuckle. Oh Jon..

introducing: jon man

Jon's post is supposed to be posted tomorrow but due to the slacking of another friend (give Tyler a kick in the butt if you see him) I am posting his today since he was early.

Jon is one of my favorite people. One time we were surrounded by people at a bar and we had an in depth conversation about some of the questions that don't really have answers. It was just what I needed. I often like to use Jon as my encyclopedia. He has a lot of knowledge about random stuff, and non-random stuff.

If you think he doesn't yell, you should sit next to him at a lacrosse game and if you think he doesn't get frustrated you should ask him to reread your questions when you play Trivial Pursuit. You should also definitely eat his cheesecake. YUM!

One time a friend was talking about buying a big drink in another country and it was $10 and you got $10 straws and Jon asked if you got 9 straws if it would be cheaper. I thought it was funny.

Jon, thanks for being an amazing guy. Let's hang out.

my brother: outdoor enthusiast

Yea that’s right the blog you’ve all been waiting for!!! If I had a dollar for every time Krista, my lil sis called me mean, I’d be so rich I’d be crapping gold! But obviously I'm nice, I mean I could be doing a hundred other things today cooler than writing this! Ha!

My parents were strict yes, and Krista probably got the short end of the stick because she actually followed them! But I do love my sister even though we probably never really got along till she moved out to college!

Ok so I’ll start randomly telling you about myself now. Kyle is my name, bradtski, (rhymes w/ brewski) is a nickname I've had since high school, I have a pretty sarcastic sense of humor and am a smart ass most of the time. I keep a light positive optimistic outlook on life! I've worked for five years now at a coffee creamer plant in Pecatonica, its union and a good gig! Teamster, you mess with us you'll end up in da boddum of da riva copeesh! I just celebrated my first year of owning my own home near Ridott! In the country, w/ the bestest neighbors ever Russ, Deb & Sheila Boyer, and someday Adam, Christina & Audrey, Cassie Boyer! I am always busy doing new stuff to my old house! I cant wait to start throwing bonfires whenever I start getting some time off! Anybody that knows me knows that I love snowmobiling, but it isn't my hobby, a sport, a past time....its my obsession! There really isn't anything I enjoy more than riding my sled as hard as I can...even though that usually gets me in trouble but I don't think my insurance agent is gonna read this! I love Minocqua/ Eagle River, Wisconsin. Anything outdoors is what I like to do, hunt, especially coyote, fish, atv, landscape, be with my dogs. I have three, a bluetick coonhound, and two miniature beagles. I'm passionate about music it is something that can reach out and grab my soul! Concerts! I just saw Montgomery Gentry again w/ Gary Alan! I am going to see Chevelle real soon and then Tom Petty again! I feel pretty complete as far as seeing my favorite bands go, I am overdue to see Sevendust and 311 again though! They are amazing!

Kyle's top ten things you should do...
1. Go to Eagle Rivers World Derby Races! Snowmobile racing ovals and snowcross and go at night!
2. Go to a Good Year Pimps concert, they are also known as the god damn pimps and just the pimps
3.Eat Fajitas at The Watering Hole in Minocqua, WI (and be extra friendly to Natasha!)
4.Go to Colorado.
5.ride in a boat plane
6. ride in a helicopter
7. go to a big ten football game GO Badgers BOO Hawkeyes
8. go to Miller Park, best atmosphere, seats, and Robin Yount is still there!!! Sorry Cubbies but someday some jerk will change the name of Wrigley field. : ( And its getting old saying, "maybe this year" every season
9. go to summerfest in Milwaukee. 5 days of music, everything!
10. Disneyland
11. give my sister Krista a hug, or make fun of her either way you're showing you love her!

*Blog owner's note: Yay for my brother and yay for number 11. It's true.

introducing: my brother

My brother has taught me a variety of things, although they look a little different than the lessons from my parents.

-I give my brother credit for my ability to cry on cue. I particularly remember one time when my brother got in trouble because I was (fake) crying, I laughed at him behind mom's back, he protested that I was faking it and mom said "Kyle, Krista can't fake cry." But I (still) can.

-Fast reflexes.

-How to tune almost anything out, sometimes without really realizing I am doing it.

I used to think I had it pretty rough with Kyle as a big brother. Looking back at it I probably was the bitchiest sister ever. Sorry, Kyle. I do cherish our memories and it has been fun to watch Kyle grow up (he has his own place! he shares his snowmobiles with me! he cooks his own food and cleans his own dishes!) I am happy to say that Kyle and I get along with almost no fights now, except about if I am going to visit him or he is going to come visit me (which has yet to happen).

One of the things I cherish most is from a "friend" book that I made my senior year of high school for a project. I asked Kyle to fill out one of the pages, which included a note to me and he said something to this effect: that though I think I am his worst enemy, he thinks of me as one of his closest friends.

Kyle is caring, thrifty, good at building things, and funny. He was patient enough to be there when my parents taught me euchre, and now that I love that game I know how hard that can be! It is fun to watch him take care of our cousins (although a few of them have gotten hurt in his care.. he would have taken the fall for them if he could have). They love him because he lets them be daring (I think that is definitely a boy's job!) I love him because he's my brother and he's great.

my dad: pond and family

I am Krista’s dad and this is my first attempt at blogging. I have worked for Kelly Springfield Tire Co., Goodyear and now work for Titan . Having gone through three tire companies at one location, I’ve managed thirty-three years of experience in the tire building industry.

Perhaps my greatest passion is my family. Our home’s walls are decorated with pictures of them and their accomplishments. My son, Kyle, has a beautiful etching of pintail ducks and Krista has a poem “The Holocaust,” two of my favorite possessions. I wish Kyle would pursue to give his talent of art more consideration and Krista also in writing of her poems. I’m a very proud parent. Both of my children give me great pleasure. Kyle has built Cheryl and I a fish pond at our home that we both enjoy tremendously. Cheryl takes care of the water and I take care of the plants around the pond. Kyle had spent many hours searching the farm area around the home for the stones for this pond. Krista has many mission trips and she and her friends give of their talents and time to camps for children each year. Her friends also are a joy and much like an extended family. They are called her blessings by Krista and I’m assured that the world is in good caring hands.

My children have wonderful grandparents. They have lived through hardships most of us can’t imagine. Both of Krista’s grandfathers arrived in Normandy’s beaches within days if not hours of one another - they didn‘t know each other at the time. My father-in-law and mother-in-law are great people with much wisdom and faith and I could have not asked for greater in-laws or influences for my children. The same can be said of uncles, aunts and cousins. Our family is very blessed.

As I am sitting here on a sunny day overlooking the three generation farm of my brother-in-law, I simply get caught up in the mystic ways and the beauty of God. My consuming thoughts of late is a priority of raising our children even as I look at the cows and calves in the pasture. I realize how protected and caring the animal kingdom is of their young and of how much more is expected of us in the human race. My wife, Cheryl, is the foundation of our family and it’s with her tireless effort, love and caring ways that also is credited with the character of Kyle and Krista. It may be known that I may harshly criticize but never yelled at my children. Old age may be a cause of lapses in memory though. One never knows!!!

*Blog owner's note: I was holding back the tears. It is kind of a wonder that they didn't start flowing.

introducing: my dad

I'm not sure where to start but here are my options.

1. My dad's birthday was yesterday. It is a day that I am extremely thankful for.
2. My parent's have caller ID. One time I called home and my father answered "Who's your daddy?"

I mentioned yesterday, while introducing my mom, that I have amazing parents. I do.

My dad has taught me a lot over the years. Chess, euchre, sports, planting, and fishing all included. He is patient, loving, caring, and a good listener. His words can make me (good) cry. He hasn't grasped the whole internet thing (mom typed his blog yesterday and sent it to me) except to buy fishing lures on ebay so I have received a lot of handwritten letters over the years. If you know me at all, you know I love letters.

My dad has taught me what love looks like and how a gentleman acts. Some of the best advice I have received has come from my father (often in lecture form :). To save, but to not save so much as to miss opportunites or to have fun. To explore and to make the most of every opportunity. Hard work, the value of the strangers checking out your groceries, and standing up for what you believe in.

I'm a daddy's girl. I think it drives my mom nuts, although I love them both more than I will ever be able to express.

my mom: raising kmb

Krista was born on her due date and has been on time ever since! Right? Actually, as far as I know she has never been late on an assignment … not that the teachers ever complained to me about. She has always been responsible for herself.

Newborn Krista bringing much happiness to the family.

It is pretty reassuring to know that she has so many friends … a little crazy (like her) from the sound of this blog. I think you need to know about her upbringing so you understand her a little better.

I tried my best to raise her right. She would tell you that I was a little tough. As I look back on her upbringing, perhaps I was a little tough, but then again, I could have been a lot tougher!
She said that we yelled at her when she didn’t approach Ashlee as a roommate. We did not yell at her … that would have brought tears and we do not like to see Krista cry. We may have encouraged her to talk to Ashlee in person at the college rather than internet, but never did we yell! (Ashlee was and is one of the best influences in Krista’s life -- glad that Ashlee took the initiative! Also thankful that Ashlee has a sense of humor like Krista‘s -- that she didn't take offense for Krista’s Amish jokes!)

Krista often reminds me of some parenting things that she was not happy with….. Like the TV shows that I would not allow her to watch. For instance, “Friends” which now is one of her favorites, but I did not feel it was appropriate at a young tender age. Ok, now you can watch it as you can make your own decisions as to what is right and wrong. Even now, when she comes home we do not have the same tastes in shows. (Sorry, Krista, hours of watching Man vs. Wild show is just a little too much for me. And “Whose Line is it Anyway“ is Krista’s kind of humor, not mine. She can be laughing hysterically and I just don‘t get it! Then she ends up laughing at me!) My favorites in shows: Dancing with the Stars; Super Nanny (do people really raise their kids like that? Hey, Krista, you could maybe get some helpful ideas here); Wife Swap (sick how some families live - and then again you can see the importance of rules); American Idol (just the singing -- not the critiques); Desperate Housewives; Brothers and Sisters; Everyone Loves Raymond; most anything on Lifetime or Hallmark channel (wow, I watch too much tv -- I guess ever since we became empty nesters!!!)

Ok, another parenting moment -- the time Krista went to our small town’s bar for pizza with a few friends. Perhaps I did over react, but I had a hard time with my daughter at a bar when she was under 21 years old and still in high school -- even though you were a senior and about to graduate. I guess you can legally hang out at a bar now if you want!


Bedtime was pretty important to me while Krista was in high school. At 10:00 p.m., the computer was to be off, unless she had homework to do. I just couldn’t understand how you could be at school all day and not talk to your friends at school, why on the computer???? (Hey, Krista, stay up all night now if you want to!) Curfew also was hard for her to accept when she had the only parents that gave curfew times???? Really!!! (I never checked this out with other parents since it didn’t really matter as curfew times were county and state mandated and therefore Krista’s parents mandated them too!)

Ok, I also MADE Krista finish anything that she started … like sports, 4-H projects, jobs, etc. Hope this hasn’t damaged you too much!

A happy day for the Central grad and her parents.

Unfortunately, I didn’t too well in the teaching of cooking ( I always preferred to do it myself as I was afraid of a mess??? - or perhaps it is because I am not the greatest chef. I stick to my basic recipes.) Glad to hear that Krista is willing to try many different recipes. Sorry, that I don’t know what half of the ingredients are!

I always had my reasons for whatever I did in the upbringing of Krista -- perhaps I could have been a little more lax, but on the other hand I think you turned out to be a pretty responsible, fine, young lady!

Family vacations were fun. Disney World was by car and I remember her dad getting pulled over by a cop for a warning ticket for pulling into the wrong lane. Krista cried. I don’t know if she was worried that her dad was going to be taken to jail or that we weren’t going to make it to Disney World! (She was only 3 years old!) Family favorite vacations were fishing trips and the competition over who got the biggest fish! So, no real big family travels and all by car (which was always fun with her brother and her getting along so well.) I know Krista said her friends couldn’t believe her first air travel was when she was in college and flew to Mexico on a mission trip. She had lived a sheltered life back here in the boonies! No wonder she loves Chicago and all of the opportunities!

We made it to Disney World!

I hope that Krista has inherited my good traits and not my bad traits…. Ok, one bad trait that you accuse me of is the worry genes and this is true…. Sorry! Blame my mother (your grandma)!
(See Ashlee -- you should have written this pretending to be me -- I think that was a great idea!!) Krista might have preferred that too!

I love you Krista, and couldn’t ask for a more loving and responsible and happy daughter!

See- your brother does love you!

P.S. See, Krista, I didn’t even mention the temper tantrums at ages 2 & 3 where you just laid down where ever you were to have your fit -- even if it was the doorway to the zoo! Sooo glad that you outgrew that stage!

P.P.S. I will be reading this on your blog, Krista, and comparing and making sure you did not use your right to delete anything I wrote!

*Blog owner's note: I won't deny that I wanted to change some things (apparently I have control issues) but all I changed was the name of MAN VS. WILD because my mom called it "Wild Man." Just had to get that straight. Also I think she forgot to mention that I ALWAYS won the big fish competitions. Or at least once..

When my mom says I couldn't watch friends at my "young tender age" she means jr. high/high school.

introducing: my mom

My mom has been hyping up her blog for some time now and I was a little worried. After reading it I think that I had some reason to be, but not really at all.


So, let's assume that I am a pretty good kid and I have turned out well since I am blessed with so many people that are amazing. That said, my parents are great. I know that I wasn't easy to raise. In my early years I did cry whenever I disappointed someone (I don't cry as often but I do have a tendency to people please). I know when I was a teenager I told my mom what I thought.. or thought I thought.. and she stuck with her guns most of the time and probably should have stuck to them the others. I probably made her cry herself to sleep some nights and I already regret that.


She's still the woman I call when I need some advice, some love, or something sent to me from home. I love introducing my friends to my parents because they love learning about my friends and welcome them into our home (usually, with some warning, she'll even make puppy chow!). Everyone seems to enjoy ganging up on me, including my parents, which makes these get togethers.. uh.. interesting. (Ok, I love it.) My brother, dad, and I gang up on my mom when it's just the four of us so I guess it all equals out.


Mom, I love you. Thanks for always loving me, even when I made it really hard. I know that you would do anything for me- or anyone else.

I think my weird neck thing is a shoulder bone or something.

dana: kinda random

Well, I kinda don't know where to begin. I have a hard enough time writing on my own blog but I LOVE Krista, so I am going to try my hardest!

My name is Dana Lyn (yes only one N) Crabtree
I have brown hair, and my eyes are blue.
I love SPRING. Spring makes my heart happy.
I like to tell Krista that she has fill lips.
I think I crave subway everyday of my life.
I have 4 brothers and 2 sisters.
One time I was the Tacky Prom Queen and Told Krista I would have to pray about still being friends with her.
God said the Friendship can continue.
I sing ALL THE TIME.
I like it when I catch people picking their nose while they are driving.
I have an obsession with brushing my teeth.
I really like awkward moments.
Krista is going to be my house mate in a few short months.
I am so excited I may pee my pants!
I never learned how to do a cartwheel.
My Favorite color is Brown.
I love it when I see old ladies singing in their cars, because I know that will be me someday.
I really like trees. They are beautiful.
My feet are very wide and my toes look like Tootsie roles.
I don't really like TV, unless its a show called LOST.
I don't shower everyday.
I would go barefoot everywhere if I could.
That's all.

I know I know I know, you wish you were me. Its ok, I understand.

*Blog owner's note: Maybe Dana should have mentioned that she has a huge heart. Not like, gorilla size (do they have bigger hearts?) but.. lots of room for people. Also she could have mentioned that she is full of random life facts but you kind of get that gist :)

introducing: dana

I met Dana right when our (amazing) small group started meeting. I hoped that night that we would end up being friends and I am really glad that we are!

I have a note on my wall from Dana that says: "You smell like sunshine and noodles." I'm not sure if that is true.. but I like it. I also like noodles and sunshine.

I made Dana restart her blog. She writes about once a year.

Dana is going to be an intern at Willow! That is very exciting for the Axis community. If you have money, you should give it to her.

Dana, I think it has been awhile since I've seen you. Over a week? Not acceptable. I can't wait until we are housemates and then if I need to see you I can just crawl in your bed.

Dana is the one in the middle, picking my nose.

leah: deep thoughts and poetic writing

My blog.

Now, I haven't been checking this blog regularly, so I'm not sure what the general theme/mood the blogs are taking. But here I go...

I am writing this blog in the midst of an intense season of life. Graduating from college and entering ministry has taken me on a road that has not traveled the distance, but it has been paved, leading me to depth. I suppose this immediate post-college journey is normal, but I hear so little about it. I think our culture would benefit in learning (learning defined as: knowledge that sinks deeply into the heart and transforms behavior, or behaviour for the Brits) about transitions. Who is ready to graduate and enter the real world? If only our college diplomas were equivalent to an "Insta-Adulthood" hot cereal... perhaps there would be ease in traveling the depths. But, I am also thankful for the lack of "learnedness" of the transition, because it has been for me to discover and find tailored to my own soul. I am one of those rule-abiding folks who actually likes school and listening, but I often find a streak of rebelliousness in my heart when I am told I must travel the same cookie-cutter journey of everyone else. That makes me want to hide in a hole, or do something rash or out of the ordinary or socially unacceptable (I would give examples of each of these, but... that would be embarrassing :-)).

Nonetheless, I am sitting here, at my computer at work. I just finished a conversation with one of our Advance team members (I don't want to explain our church leadership at the moment), cheeks pink, mascara smeared, mouth full of a funny, metallic taste, heart, mind, strength and soul tired... but I am thankful. For a workplace that is full of grace for my tears, my heart of intensity, my vintage green chair and my styrofoam, rubber-band rockets. In a season of general messiness, yet fullness...

hm... I wanted to end it within a sentence or two, but it was all going to get cliche. And this journey, this moment, this day, has been too precious and formative to reduce to a cliche. So I am ending with a word and a period. Shalom.

And... if this is the only soulish, wondering blog and it feels like an awkward contribution... then that's exactly what it was supposed to be, thus proving my life motto, "Life is awkward, if you can't handle it, just create more awkwardness." ..... just kidding... kind of... :-)

Thanks, Krista :-)

*Blog owner's note: By "haven't been checking this blog regularly" do you mean "haven't read this blog?" I haven't lynched anyone yet... (saying "lynched" always makes me think of a friend from college. Then I picture sicking him on someone and calling that "lynching." I will neither do that nor the real meaning to anyone who doesn't read this blog.. probably.)

introducing: leah

Leah,

Remember that one time that we went to a non-chain car shop in Iowa City? I was randomly thinking today about how I wish I could find one here. (Don't get me wrong, Hallmark, I love you.)

How about the time that we used to have dinner dates?

OR that time that I went to the zoo with some friends and you had your AUNT call us as a April Fool's Day joke and we waited by the tigers for some employee because we really wanted to feed the tigers and we figured someone was pranking us but we couldn't figure out who and we really wanted to feed the tigers?

We had a paint fight in Mexico one time. Do you remember that? I am pretty sure there were sound effects. Every good paint fight has them, though.

me and stamps

This is a "normal" post. Sorry if you are disappointed but.. it is my blog.

I was checking the United States Postal Service site to see if the stamp prices are GOING up or if they ARE up now.. I heard something on the radio this morning.

Anyway, I was happy to see THESE, even though I am still not sure if I need a $.01 stamp today or not.

Stamps AND Frank Sinatra. It's a good day.

If you'd like to know how much of a dork I am, here is a quick story. One time I sent a poster to Afghanistan. They put priority mail tape all around the tube, stamped it, and put the official documents on it and I thought it was the coolest thing ever.

Also, I think it is kind of ironic that probably very few of my United States Postal Workers are from the US.

danielle: funny quotes and things

First of all let me just say that this is my first blogging experience. I'm glad that I'm getting to share it with Krista!!! Who knows, maybe after this I'll start my own blog. Well, probably not, because I don't keep up with internet-y things that well. I have to start this off by saying that Krista is a fantastic person!!! I am super excited about being roommates--it's going to pretty much be the best thing ever. I decided that I would add to the blog a couple funny quotes and jokes I have heard along the way. Well, at least I think they're funny--you might think they are stupid. I've been known to find things humorous that others thought were really dumb. But I felt like I could really use a laugh today, so I thought I would share :).

This one we saw on a sign in a window in downtown Arlington Heights. It said "I don't skinny dip, I chunky dunk." Ha!

"If at first you don't succeed, then skydiving definitely isn't for you."

Lame pick up line..."Are you a parking ticket? You got fine written all over you."

Joke everyone has probably heard a million times but still makes me laugh--Where would a waitress with really big boobs work? -Hooters. Where would a waitress with only one leg work? ........IHOP

"How long a minute is depends on what side of the bathroom door you are on."

Funny things my students have said...

"I did a good job today because I decided to use my mind." (Well thank you. I was foolishly thinking at school we might use our minds every day...)

When one of them came in from P.E. with a bag of candy I asked "Where did you get that?" He said "Oh I know people, Miss Castens." I need to form similar connections.

One morning before school, one of them goes "Miss Castens! Did you hear the news?!" really excitedly. I said "No--what news???" He said, "About the worms!" I said "No, what about them?" "There are worms all over the parking lot--and I killed some of them." Then he just stood there looking at me like I should be strongly reacting. I said "So is that the news?" He said "Yep" and went and sat down. ??????????? I have a strange, strange job.

I was coughing and sniffing the other day and one of them said "You know, you don't look so good today. You should probably go down to the nurse's office when we go to recess. She can take your temperature and give you an ice pack, and you'll feel better." They think the cure for everything, from a scraped knee to a stomach ache to a paper cut, is having the nurse take their temperature and give them an ice pack. Going and getting a drink also somehow works miracles on any ailment.

From the Chocolate Festival we went to--"If I ate a chocolate every time I thought of you, my butt would be the size of Texas."

Now some Yo Mama jokes.

Yo mama's so fat when she went to the movies, she sat next to everyone.

Yo mama's so fat when she steps on the scale, it says "to be continued."

Yo mama's so fat she jumped for joy and got stuck.

Alright I think that's all I've got for now. Krista, aren't you glad that we're going to be roommates and I can tell you funny things like these all the time??? LUCKY, lucky you. Love you!!! :-)

* Blog owner's note: I am really really lucky! I think maybe the P.E. story is my favorite, but it is a tough call. The skydiving line is also clever.

introducing: danielle

Danielle is one of the sweetest girls... ever. I wish that I was a fourth grader. If I was a fourth grader I would move to the district that she teaches and go to her school. Actually, I think I live in the district she teaches in. Anyway, I guess right now I should wish that I was a third grader so that I could finish out the year with some ka-bob and then move to fourth grade next year and have the entire year with Ms. Danielle.

Actually, I remember fourth grade. I'm not sure that, even with Danielle as my teacher, I'd want to relive it. It's a close call.

Instead I guess I can just be really really excited for the day when we are roommates. I've enjoyed our chats and fun times and I am comforted to know there are many more to come!

I've decided to call people ka-bobs. I don't know why. I kind of like ka-bobs but I wouldn't want to be called a ka-bob so now ka-bob is a put-down. It is one of the "friendly" put-downs though. I just wanted to make sure I was clear..

friend kyle: pants

Well, blogging.....I guess I have never ever had the chance to blog. Definitely something new, hip, makes me feel young again. Do you remember the days in junior high when everyone would sit on instant messenger and "chat" all night long. Well I know I did, and what I loser I was for doing that. Squirrels. Yes, squirrels. Do you like squirrels because I do? Well my main question is what is your favorite color? Mine is green, why well because grass is green, certain types of tractors are green, my eyes are green, that's why. How can you not like the color green?

Well the only story I can come up with right now is about a certain experience I had turkey hunting a few years ago with my grandpa and a friend. The only reason I thought of this story is due to fact that I will turkey hunting again with my grandpa again this weekend. So here it goes......

So about two years ago I planned this trip in eastern Iowa to go turkey hunting with a friend and my grandpa. Since I didn't have the chance to visit this friend very often I decided to stay the night at his place. So get up at like 3:00 in the morning and grab a quick bite to eat. And the only the he had for us to eat was yogurt. No problem I 've thrown down quite a few yogurts in my day so I just ate it and we were on our way. So we pick up my grandpa and I noticed that I start to get a little bit of an upset stomach. No problem, sometimes you just gotta suck it when you're up at 3am and mental enough to be out there that early. We get to the spot where we were going to hunt and of course its about a two mile walk across these huge pastures back to the woods. So I agreed to take the turkey blinds and walk ahead so I could get them set up by the time my grandpa and friend, who both walk slower, would get there. So I start setting up the blind and keep getting these really bad stomach cramps. And I'm thinking, wow, this is going to be a rough day. Not to mention that at least twice I got really bad stomach cramps while walking back to these woods. Not to mention, I had to even to lay on the ground a few times it hurt so bad. So I set the two blinds up and decide I should probably get the stakes out and secure them to the ground. So I reached down, kind of in a squat, to put the first stake in and BAMM, that's when it hit. My drawers, we are talking Hanes Classic Cotton Briefs, were not filled to their maximum potential. If they had a fill capacity, they were definitely over it. If you still don't get this, think about the number 2. So I sat there frozen, in the dark, wondering, what should one do when you're in this position. Stand up and risk everything possible spilling over the sides, over do you just henge up and risk having the other two laughs there butts off at you. So very carefully and ever so slowly I stood up, walked over to the woods. Then slowly ever so careful remove everything and some how some way I was able to escape from that mess, clean up with a little of nature's toilet paper, and toss the soiled drawers into the brush. And yes, I got made fun of, but hey I toughed it out, I ended up hunting the rest of the day, commando, with all kinds of nast in my pants, and then even worse part was that both, my grandpa and I htos and missed turkeys that day. I finally called it at about 10am, after being sick to my stomach now because of the oderferous odor that lurked from my seat. The towel was thrown and I just had to go back to get a clean set of clothes on. Well that is my story and probably the least amount of fun I have ever had in the great outdoors. Well we are going to give it try number two this week. And there will be no yogurt being consumed anytime before and/or during this expedition. Have a great weekend everyone!



*Blog owner's note: gross.

introducing: friend kyle

For those of you that know that my older brother's name is Kyle, I don't want to confuse you. This blog is from my friend Kyle that I went to college with. He has a little sister named Krista. Isn't that kind of strange? This Kyle is also kind of strange. And the other one, too...

Anyway, Kyle is a maniac that likes to run and bike a lot. I don't really understand it but it is true. He also does really random things like snow shoe racing and ice fishing. He almost burned down his ice house once due to a heater. I think he put it too close to something. Not a smart move, Kyle.

We took a photography class and spent many hours in the dark room together. ow ow. (just kidding). Well we did, but nothing sketchy went on.

4 and 5

I love you.
Dear poo poo (laughter)
You love yogurt.
I double dare you to eat head cabbage.
Dear no one.
We love you.
We don't love you.
I like to build a jungle gym.
Poobah!
Doobah!
I love Krista.
I don't love her.
me: (finally trying to guide them a bit) What do you like to do? them: pee
We're eating breakfast and I made a tractor.
I'm going to throw yogurt at you.
I'm going to chomp your head off.
I love you, bye.
I don't love you, bye.

*Blog owner's note: They thought this was HILARIOUS.

introducing: 4 and 5

I have a lot of funny moments at my job.
So I thought I would have 4 and 5 do my blog today.

Today was actually supposed to be Lydia but due to someone else's lameness I accidentally posted Lydia yesterday. Lydia sent me hers early and the other dude didn't send his at all- so, of course, I got confused. If you are here anticipating Lydia's blog: just scroll down a bit (it's good). (I'm sure that everyone is looking off their original email, right?)

Don't let lameness happen to you!

I wish I could post pictures but instead I will show them to you sometime. Maybe I already have. I'd insert some stories but I am actually ignoring one of them at the moment. Whoops.

lydia: lydia

to do before i die:

~travel around the U.S in an RV.
~skydive.( i really want to do it, but i'm afraid if i do, i will pee as i jump out of the plane and that would be bad)
~run a marathon. (this will be challenging because the longest i can run is about 4 minutes. if i could run a marathon in 4 minutes that would be great!)
~get married. (i can't wait to make out with the love of my life for the rest of my life)
~graduate college (this is taking a while because i have an incurable disease; laziness)
~swim with the dolphins.
~be brave
~meet a celebrity
~drive a pickup truck (this will happen. when it does i will be listening to brad paisley and getting mud on the tires. i should have been a cowboy)
~keep a plant alive (i tend to think that watering plants is overrated and then they die.)
~read a really long book
~learn the dance from dirty dancing (i think that would be impressive if i could just bust out this dance. i'd be the talk to the town)



things i've been able to cross off the list:

~ask a boy to a dance (my junior year of high school i asked patrick to turnabout by writing a story of our friendship. he said no and i cried)
~be in plays (i did theater in high school. i was kind of a big deal)
~go golfing (not the most fun i've ever had)
~go to the batting cages (this was fun, although i had to wear sketchy helmet)
~ride on a motorcycle (i rode on a harley and it was really scary. i held on tight)



these are the things i'll be working on for the next few years. if anyone wants to help me accomplish any of the tasks that would be wonderful.

*Blog owner's note: I am curious to learn which list "skinny dipping" goes under.

introducing: lydia

Lydia you are one of a kind,

And always I want to claim you as mine.

You are hilarious and really cute, too,

When I am without you I feel very blue.

We are going to be roommates, I can't wait,

If you ever want to fish I would put on your bait.

I love our laughs and also our chats,

Soon it will be summer and there will be gnats.

Call me if you need me or just to say hi,

Soon when you sleep, I will be nigh.

I know that sounds creepy but it is ok,

Because, like I said, we'll be roommates someday.

Lydia is the one hugging me. Sarah (another future roommate! AND guest blogger!) is the one in the background being really funny.

luke: facts about lego movies

Krista tells me that regardless of my blogging subject she will be posting links to my Lego Movies. I should give credit where credit is due, my good high school buddies D. David and G. Gallaher can claim them just as much. (Hmmm, I was tempted to lay into a whole long list of names and thank-yous Oscar style, but maybe I'll just wait until my official nod from The Academy.) So now, a couple of facts for those of you who are interested enough to watch.

Yes, Lego Movies take a long time to make. Stop-animation requires us to take one picture, move the scene slightly, take another picture, move the scene again, take yet another picture, etc. etc. ad nasauem! 7 frames per second for the first three movies, 10 frames for the last. For some reason, though, getting to watch the finished product of 4 seconds or so after 45 minutes of shooting was still rewarding. And for people who grew up with an intense love of Legos as my friends and I all did, spending 50 hours on average per movie hunched on the floor, building movie sets and picking out and posing Lego guys is surprisingly enjoyable. As we improved in our movies keep a look out for special lighting, interesting camera angles and even some CGI! And yes, for those of you who know me, you will probably recognize my voice as I usually was assigned all the sound effects.

The Battle of Bunker Hill - Our first movie. It was for a school project for a class that I wasn't even in. There were five people in the group, so my friend let them write the paper and we'd work on the movie. The camera was not too stellar and the animation is a little clunky, but I still think this one is my favorite. No, that is not my voice in the rather long and boring introduction. Keep your ears tuned for Monty Python references in this movie and all the rest. And if you recognize the soundtrack from another box-office smash, I claim it is purely coincidence.




Ninja Slain by Cook - I am not completely certain what our generation's obsession with ninjas is all about, but we were definitely a part of it. No particular point in this one other than to make another movie. With two Lego Movies under your belt you have probably noticed the high level of violence in the movies. My apologies, but there's really not a whole lot you can do with Lego men on film than have them fight each other. (It's all red playdo by the way.) We haven't found the proper chemistry for a heated drama yet. Please note near the end of the movie the amazing wine-rack in the kitchen. That thing was extremely fragile and kept having to be repaired during shooting, but I love it!




ABC's - This one was also for a school project, but this time both Gabriel and I were in the class. For Art we had to do a stylized alphabet. So cue up a Sesame Street style alphabet presentation. As creative as it might have been, it got really boring by the time we were halfway through. So we added a little flare. (It's kind of unclear in the movie, but the reason the cops show up in the movie is because the Lego guys beat up their director.)





What's With the Tulip - The previous three were done in high school. This last one is our college installment. So, as one would expect, there are several upgrades. (Including a trailer for a movie that, I assure you, will never be made!) Technically, it's our best movie, and it's hilarious to anyone who is familiar with Pella. I imagine it's a bit confusing to anyone else. It also marks the first time we tried to do anything even remotely romantic in our movies. No worries, it is rather cruelly cut short in about 5 seconds. So if you're ever headed to Pella, IA for Tulip Time please consider this movie our friendly Public Service Announcement.




My thanks to Krista for opening a spot on her blog for me and for her consistent reminders that I had better write something soon cause I have a deadline! God's blessings to you Krista, and to all.

Luke

Blog owner's note: I think these are hilarious. I don't think it is just because I love Monty Python and the Quest for the Holy Grail. I think it is also because I thought about how much time had to go into it... and because they are hilarious.

introducing: luke

I thought Luke was cool even before he showed me his Lego videos.
I have really good judgement.

He is also one of the most philosophical and smart guys you'll ever meet.

Luke is the one in the Dutch Volleyball tshirt. I am in the superman shirt, in case you needed assistance. This was on a trip to New Orleans.

michael bublé: confessions

You're a falling star, You're the get away car.

You're the line in the sand when I go too far.

You're the swimming pool, on an August day.

And you're the perfect thing to say.

And you play it coy, but it's kinda cute.

Ah, When you smile at me you know exactly what you do.

Baby don't pretend, that you don't know it's true.

Cause you can see it when I look at you.

And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times

It's you, it's you, You make me sing.

You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.

You're a carousel, you're a wishing well,

And you light me up, when you ring my bell.

You're a mystery, you're from outer space,

You're every minute of my everyday.

And I can't believe, uh that I'm your man,

And I get to kiss you baby just because I can.

Whatever comes our way, ah we'll see it through,

And you know that's what our love can do.

And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times

It's you, it's you, You make me sing

You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.

And in this crazy life, and through these crazy times

It's you, it's you, You make me sing.

You're every line, you're every word, you're everything.

You're every song, and I sing along.

'Cause you're my everything.

Blog owner's note: Oh my goodness! Michael I had no idea that you originally wrote this song for me. You little stinker I can't believe you have kept it from me for so long but I am glad that you decided to announce to everyone your love for me on MY BLOG. (Way cooler than doing it via accidental email.) I'm glad I could share this moment with y'all. (That y'all goes out to Tyler and Charlie.)

Here is a picture of the two of us. Don't we look happy? In fact, I look really really different. Come to think of it, we don't really look that happy. We are.

introducing: surprise blogger!

In my original email I used a friend (sorry man) to cover up for my SURPRISE BLOGGER.


This man and I have been close for quite some time.
He sings me to sleep.
He sings to me in the car.
He sings to me at work.
I've taught the kids who he is. (Or I have at least taught them to answer with his name when I ask "Who sings this song?)


Probably a lot of you didn't know we were so close. But the secret is out.

alex: camp nerds forever

So let me start off by telling you that I am odd, not like socially awkward odd, as Krista likes to call it, but weird odd. This will help in the story that follows and it also explains how Krista and I became friends. But before I get to all that, I should probably say a couple things about myself..besides being odd. I am a Californian,born and raised and now live here once again after being out in the Midwest for what seemed like an eternity, not that I don't like the Midwest, but it is definitely different than here. Anyway, I work as a youth pastor at a Christian Reformed Church out in Modesto. I absolutely love my job! I get to go and hang out with kids everyday and get paid for it. Guitar hero is my new addiction and I have to say that I am pretty darn good.


Now let me tell you a little story about how Krista and I met. We were both working at Camp Manitoqua the summer of 2005 and one day a bunch of people were hanging out in the living room area. I decided to attempt to be social and go meet some of the "new" peeps. I happened to sit down next to Krista and maybe said three words to her,when she turns to me and says, "you're weird...I think we should be friends." I was so confused and somewhat flattered at the same time that I didn't know what to say. And it went from there, now I cant get the girl to leave me alone, always calling and sending those Hallmark cards.


One more story that I think you will enjoy. About 2 years ago, when I was going to seminary in Michigan, Krista came up to see me for a weekend. Being the camp nerds that we are, we decided that we wanted to go check out some of the local summer camps around there (In case you didn't know, western Michigan has the most summer camps than any other place in the country). Camp Geneva was only about half an hour away, so we made our way down there and decided to just drive on in and take a walk around. There were some cars in the parking lot, but we thought nothing of it and started moseying around the grounds. As we walked we noticed that there were an awful lot of couples walking around. We said hi to a few of the couples and kept walking, even though we were getting some odd looks. After making the loop around the camp, we went up to the office area. We went into the office and as we walked in the door, we saw a saw that said "Engaged Encounter Weekend". We both just started laughing so hard... no wonder everyone was looking at us weird, they thought we were one of the engaged couples! How embarrassing, yet very funny at the same time. Anyway,that is a moment I will never forget...hilarity.


*Blog owner's note: When I started reading the story about camp, I thought Alex was going to tell you about the time that we went to Spring Hill. We were looking around (tresspassing) when a truck starting coming toward us. Obviously, they saw us yet Alex's reaction? "Run and hide!" She started to run away and I called her back because I knew we had to talk to them. It turned out to be the camp owner, who apparently didn't care that there were camp nerds walking around the grounds. Which was really good.

introducing: alex

Alexandra Louella,


It seems like a really long time ago that Jody made up your middle name. I'm glad that you were my camp supervisor, yet the one encouraging me to get into all sorts of trouble. I like that we hid from the other supervisors so that we could do highs/lows, talk, read Harry Potter, and pray past curfew. Oh and that one time we went with one of the other supervisors for a little golf cart ride. It's funny that supervisors are the ones at camp that would have to bust people stealing the golf carts but instead you were driving. Anyway, that night we went for a little joy ride on 28. I love that Jeff took the governor off that thing. Otherwise I will still not know what a governor was. Anyway, when we practiced "switch-a-roo" with four people on a non-moving golf cart the first time we probably should have moved back to our original spot. I think that is what made me unsure of what to grab when I was trying to move from the back to the front as the golf cart was moving. I knew I couldn't grab the steering wheel, and my other options were limited. I guess I could have grabbed it though since you swerved for the tree anyway and I went flying out of the golf cart. I remember a lot of laughter and a lot of bruises. I hope that our camp boss, Nathan, doesn't read this blog.


Thanks for all the great memories. And quotes. Like that one time I asked you if you were having a party and you started singing stripper music instead of disco or techno music. I love that we share a love of HP. I know you really love the books and movies even though I beat you that one time in HP scene it.


Thank you for being Alex. I really like you. You are hilarious, fun, godly, random, and weird. All of my favorite qualities.


Krista

wes: from florida

I would like to start off by saying that I am honored to be a guest blogger on Krista's Johnson blog. Kind of sounds dirty when you put it that way. I think this is a pretty clever idea, not as clever as Krista's roundabout way of confessing her love for me but clever. Just kidding. You can erase that if you want Krista.

Right now I am sitting in a condo in southwest Florida that is decorated an 1989 pastel western motif. I have been sitting in the sun all day and I am parched and tired, but I probably shouldn't be complaining since I am in Florida. I am highjacking an old ladies wireless internet from down the hall so I can write this thing, and I am listening to one of the prettiest songs I have ever heard called Window by Damien Jurdado with Rosie Thomas singing harmony. If you have 99 cents to spare I would suggest purchasing it on itunes, it's worth your money.

Highlights from my day were:
1. Reading and Journaling while eating Honey Bunches of Oats and drinking coffee next to the Gulf of Mexico.
2. Swimming in the pool
3. Talking to my little brother on the phone
4. Meeting a 60 year-old man named Betty Boop while eating seafood at this place called the Hungry Heron. He had Betty Boop's face tattooed on his ankle and he carried a Betty Boop wallet. He invited me to eat breakfast at his restaurant sometime this week. I'm not sure if I am going to go or not.
5. Watching the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico on an isolated beach. I saw a dolphin swim by right before it sun went over the horizon.

I came down here to slow down for a bit and hopefully learn some stuff about myself and God. Every couple hours I get anxious because I haven't spent this much time by myself before and I'm not sure if I will make the full week. I really enjoy alone time, but those times have been sparse lately. It was nice not having an agenda today and didn't even carry my watch with me. There is something freeing about that.

The condo I am staying in doesn't have cable or a DVD player but they do have a VCR and about a hundred VHS tapes all of which are kids movies or Adam Sandler movies. I went to the local video rental store tonight and picked up a couple tapes that I could watch if I ever get bored this week. Let's be honest I will probably watch them all tomorrow.

I am making a video blog for everyday that I am here, I realize that is super dorky, but I am a dork so I don't care. If you want to watch them click here.

*Blog owner's note: Apparently I shouldn't have started these because I (surprisingly) don't always have something to say. I will tell you that I am very jealous of Wes's location right now and the sunset/dolphin story really doesn't help matters.

introducing: wes

Just a few things about Wes since I feel like I have said so much already. I'll just throw out there that he was famous around these parts before I made him more famous with that email.

With that said, here are a list of names that I call Wes/he goes by. I thought it'd make the best introduction. They are in no particular order except maybe the order that I use them most often (just kidding).

1. Shit

2. Little shit

3. Wes

4. Wesley

5. Mathias

6. Porkchop

7. Wesh

8. Wessy

9. West

10. Sport (ok, that's a lie)

11. No beard the pirate (that one time.. when he didn't have a beard for about a day)

12. Famous man

One time Wes asked me over his apartment intercom "Krista, how's your herpes?" I don't really have herpes.

allison: here it is here it is...

Grits. Yes here I am sitting on my golden couch eating a bowl of grits. They are buttered and salted. Like most grits should be in the world.

My name is Allison. I am white and American. I work in ministry with international students, live in a black neighborhood, and work with a staff team that is predominately Asian American. Let me say that my life is interesting. If you need a consultant on cross-cultural or ethnic conflict please ask Krista for my number. Actually don’t, because it is a big hot mess most times.

Some call me Alli, to others I am A-Bomb, and the best call me simply “A.” I have learned in my cross-cultural experiences that A-bomb should not be used in the ‘name game’ while Japanese students are present.

It has been done.

And it will never be done again. I have also learned that a simple and innocent wink at an Indian student is not received how I intend it to be received. It probably is never advisable to give any person that you mentor connotations of the like.

Currently I am learning the upside-down nature of the Kingdom. And in Kingdom I do not mean anything of the fantasy or RPG type world. I see this nature as He somehow uses simple people to impact the PhD’s and scholars of this world. I see this nature as the foreigner receives voice to challenge its welcomer. I see this nature as clay-like and fragile containers are left to contain powerful substances.

Sometimes I prefer tangerines over apples.

But I have always preferred potatoes over any vegetable. If vegetables had a hierarchy of value, I would put the potatoes at the top. If potatoes had a hierarchy I would give sweet potatoes the position of privilege and honor over the white potatoes or red potatoes. But I guess it all is relative to ones own preference?

I have learned and I am learning much. Deep goes to deep. Bigger just gets bigger. And grits are always grits.

*Blog owner's note: I don't really have one but I thought I should keep up with the tradition.

introducing: allison

I think my first interaction with Allison was when she said I must be from Minnesota, but I'm not. Our freshman year in college we took Mark Bible study together in Weller. We had a conversation outside the room once that the time in our study wasn't enough and we wanted to dig deeper. I invited her to join me in the library, with only a Bible dictionary and a Bible encyclopedia and we spent around 3 hours looking stuff up and finding out how sweet the Word of God is.

Allison is hilarious. She loves awkward interactions (which is great since she has a ton of them.) I love that she has a job that is a perfect fit for her. I also love her dance moves. I also love when she silent laughs and shakes.

Here is a small "clip" of Allison. Enjoy.

From: Allison

Sent: Mon 4/28/03 9:26 PM

To: kmb

Subject: fluffy scorpian

narrative poem by allison to kmb:

sometimes you remind me of a fluffy scorpion
sometime you remind me of a ball of earwax
sometimes you remind me of my disformed pinky toe (oh shoot, I don't' have a pinky toe)
sometimes you remind me of the squirrel that chewed it off
sometimes you remind me of a dandelion
but most of all, you remind me of a dung beetle

love ya,
allison

I decided to go with a picture from our freshman year at Central.

jodi: the blogger's blog on my blog

The other Jodi here…not the roommate…the other one…the “older Iowan” (did you know this is an official day at the State Fair? Older Iowan’s Day…Yep! Fun times) Anyway – welcome to my post:

The pressure is absolutely INTENSE when you have to write on someone else’s blog because they were too lazy to post this month…umm..I mean when you have the honor of posting on someone else’s blog. You want to be funny or insightful and wise or sentimental. I’m feeling not much of any of these things tonight. I think it comes down to the DEADLINE factor. I hate deadlines. Hate em, hate em, hate em. Thank you Krista for giving me one – really ‘preciate it. I don’t have these issues with my own blog. I write whatever I want, whenever I want. You have a blog, you say? Why, yes I do! Thanks for asking! It is a Mommy blog I guess you’d say. I could tell you all of the things I post about, but really you should just read it yourself….subscribe to it in a Reader…cuz I like it when people read my blog. I like it even more when you leave comments. Aren’t comments to a Blogger like crack to a drug addict? (which reminds me – my 2-yr-old calls McDonald’s the “Diet Coke House” – yes, Diet Coke IS my crack, thank you very much). I think all bloggers have a bit of a need to be read – fuel for the self-esteem when hundreds (I jest…dozens if I’m lucky) a week peer into your mind – your life (ok – suddenly I feel creepy about that – nevermind).

Anyway, I created my blog at first as a way to record these years for my children (Bailey (12), Lauren(2) and Grant (7 months).

Since I am now outnumbered by children (advice for you youngins…stop at two people – or hire a Nanny if you must have more – cuz when you have to switch from the parental man-to-man to a zone defense…things get ugly). Here’s the guy I zone defense with:

I love scrapbooking but never have the time (see previous sentence about being outnumbered)…so this blog thing was going to be my way of recording pictures, the funny things the kids say, the accomplishments, the tears, etc. Today it is so much more! It is my outlet – my journal I guess. I’m actually kind of blog-addicted. And it isn’t just MY blog….I am currently subscribed to over 70 blogs – I KNOW! Insane, right? But I heart them! Some are other Mommy blogs, some are couponing/money-saving/thrifty blogs where they tell me where the sales are on shampoo and where to get coupons online or otherwise and get the stuff for FREE! (love that!). Some are celebrity gossip (I know – bad…but I pretend it is for “work” - I am a PR freelancer and work for a women’s magazine – my job is to get “celebs” interested in a cover story), some are recipes/cooking…I even have a whole category of blogs specifically about garage saling/yard sales.

Ok, so now that you know I’m a little weird, you won’t be surprised to learn that I’m actually RELATED to Krista. =-) Krista is my cousin. (My Mom & her Mom are sisters). We have a unique relationship – I am 13 years older than she is (I think? Crap – I’m old!) Anyway – I was old enough to remember when she was born. (crazy!). Krista is 11 years older than MY daughter (I think?) Anyway – I obviously love Krista because she is family – but our relationship is more than just the typical “cousin” relationship. Because of how she lands between me and my daughter’s ages….sometimes I have this maternal feeling about Krista – sometimes a sisterly feeling and sometimes I feel like she’s my friend. I hope I’m communicating this ok – and that it doesn’t come out weird or creepy. I guess what I’m trying to say is that I think Krista is amazing – she’s an absolute RAWK STAR! She is funny, smart, kind, beautiful, grounded, faithful, sensitive, compassionate, encouraging, truthful, loving….….but she totally sucks with e-mail. Apparently once she actually forwarded something really embarrassing to a huge list of people…but didn’t mean to. I’m sure it was the computer’s fault….darn Jody’s (roommate) computer. She is a great role-model for my daughters and just an overall beautiful person. If you know her…and call her friend…here is a reminder that you’ve been blessed.

Alrighty…well…this has turned into a random thoughts post – sorry. I had higher hopes for myself…my Krista’s blog debut….but it is 9 p.m….May 1 (because the naggy Krista is DEMANDING we turn in our posts at least a day ahead of time! How does THAT work anyway? Make people do your blog work and then demand a deadline out of ‘em. Hmph!)…and I’m getting tired (Remember – I told you I was an “older Iowan” and that I was outnumbered my rugrats). Plus I have to go watch the latest episode of “The Office” that I TiVo’d earlier tonight (LOVE THAT SHOW!). Other shows I love (and then I’m finishing – I mean it):

The Bachelor (can’t help it…like a train wreck…just have to watch)
Boston Legal
Jon & Kate Plus 8
Little People, Big World
What Not To Wear (It is the same as watching Aerobics to me…I should be DOING it…following their wardrobe advice…but instead I sit in my sweats watching it)
Brothers & Sisters (LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this one!!!)
Grey’s Anatomy

….just to name a FEW

Ok – hope I didn’t bore you too badly. If I did? You know who to blame…and it rhymes with Sistah =-)

*Blog owner's note: I hope that you have better pictures of me than this, Jodi. Grant is my godson. Bailey is Jodi's daughter, whom I've posted about before. Lauren is really cute and gets excited to see me and it is one of my favorite things. Jodi makes me laugh a lot. I want to watch Man vs. Wild with mark on his HDTV.

introducing: jodi

For all of you that are checking off your original "guest writers" email- there is a little switch up. I am a little nervous that it is only the second day and I already have a slacker writer. (Love ya, Allison.) So... today's writer is Jodi.

Although she complains about how I had a deadline, she got her blog to me early which actually worked out really really nicely. The rest of you better not slack, though.

Jodi is my cousin. She says it well in her blog but we have a very unique relationship. I love her. I want to be her. I would really like to steal her kids. There was a time when I was contemplating moving to Des Moines and a lot of it was so that I could be closer to her and her family because I hate that I am not there to see them grow up. Although I always have things pulling me back to the Des Moines/Pella area so I get to see the family quite often.

Jodi is an amazing mother, friend, daughter, wife, and person. She challenges herself and loves to learn. She is proud of her kids and has reason to be. I love the times we laugh at silly things and share crazy emails. Don't get us talking about our family because our eyes will fill with tears at the amount of blessing that is wrapped up in it. And a quick thank you to Jodi for always letting me steal your half-read books.

ashlee's "your blog, my blog, bloggity bloggity blog"‏

Here you go! It is longer than I thought it would be. I made it blue.

Hello fellow bloggers! So, I must confess that it took me a while to figure out what to write on this blog. I think that I pressured myself to have this awesome blog, and everything I thought of seemed dumb. But, in a way, I guess that I am dumb. So, on with the blog. (If you say “blog” many times, you can’t help but start laughing. Especially if you add hand motions and watch yourself saying it in the mirror. That’s just what I have heard...) Today, I sat down and made a list of all of the things I could talk about on this blog (blog, ha ha). See, apparently I think that lists are the way to solving the problems of my life. Here are some examples of lists I have right now. I have lists of life goals, things to do today, this week, this month, this summer, and this year. I have lists of possible songs that I could play at my brother’s wedding in August. I have lists of things that are true and things that are lies. I have lists of what lists I should make. I am pretty much list-oriented, but still completely clueless about life. Here was my list of things to write about in Krista’s blog (some of them might have sub-lists).
1. “Am I normal?” – the list of all the weird stuff I do that I secretly wonder if anyone else does also. Like, ok, everyone picks their nose when driving, right? But what do YOU do with the booger?
2. Talk about the myths of childhood. Like, all the things I thought I would do when I was an adult, and now I am supposed to be an adult, and life isn’t anything like I had planned…yet. Like, I don’t own a red convertible or have a big pet tiger or a roller coaster take me work at a job where I get paid to do whatever I want.
3. Funny subbing stories. Like the time when I was teaching 6th graders and we brainstormed ways to control the rabbit population. When the ways turned a little violent (like, shoot them, throw firecrackers at them, shove Alka-Seltzers down their throats (I did not encourage these violent ways)), the teacher’s aid said something like, “We cannot control the rabbit population by hurting the rabbits.” And some kid said, “We can neuter them!” and another kid said, “That hurts! Believe me!” And I changed the subject. (This was today). (Re-read the teacher’s aid’s comment. Does it make sense to YOU?)
4. Vent about the random jerks that anger me, and ask you people if you know people like this, and discuss possible solutions to end jerkiness. (Like, shoot them, throw firecrackers at them, shove Alka-Seltzers down their throats.)
5. Wacko dreams I have had or weird things I have done in my sleep. Last night I dreamt (dreamed?) that I was playing whack-a-mole, but with a garden hose and flames. Last year I sat up in bed, yelled “Jackpot!” threw an imaginary football as hard as I could, and hit my sleeping husband in the stomach, causing him to whimper.
6. Convince all people to save the world by being Amish. But then, I would be a hypocrite because I would have to use technology to convince you of this.
7. Random thoughts I have had today (but that is a little scary and usually embarrassing.)
8. Tin-snips/garbage-man/dump-truck story (but that is too long…as if my current blog isn’t)
9. What I did today (because every little thing that happens to me is really a dramatic story of hilarity)
10. Pretend like I am someone else writing a blog on the wrong day, so that everyone could make fun of that person. But that would probably be acting like a jerk. Especially if I pretended to be Krista’s mom. (Hi Cheryl!)
11. Write about something that makes me sound intelligent. That way I can fool all of the people who do not know me into thinking that I am really smart and ultra-cool. But then, the people who know better would probably think that someone wrote my blog pretending to be me. And I would get made fun of.

So, there you have it. And there I have it. My blog for today is finished.

Love you Krista! It would be really embarrassing to me if I said something like, "I make a pile of boogers in my car's cup-holder" and then you accidentally posted it with my blog. Note: this paragraph is in BLACK, and my blog is in BLUE. and if you put this in there, you will be BOTH. ha ha. I am laughing really hard at myself right now, and I didn't even have to say it many times in front of a mirror with hand gestures. hahaha. Later! i will call you tonight.

ashlee

*Blog owner's note: I actually called to make sure it was ok to post the black part. She told me I would pay, but I thought it was worth it. Also she asked me to make some disclaimer that she actually doesn't put them in her car's cup holder... she said something about how she only puts them there if she is full because usually she eats them. Or flicks them out the window. I can't remember...

introducing: ashlee

Some things you should know about Ashlee.

a. She used to have a different last name. Then she switched her last name for protection purposes. Or because she got married.
b. She likes to burn stuff.
c. So does her husband.
d. I convinced people in college that she was Amish. Because she is. (people actually believed I went to Central's gross pond to get her bath water since she couldn't use electricity/showers. I swear it's a legit school..)
e. She is really really funny.
f. That's why we are friends.
g. That and a million other reasons.
h. She keeps me real. Jerk.
i. She really loved when I crawled into her bed to snuggle. (or the exact opposite)
j. One time we laughed the exact same for a few minutes. It was quite weird.
k. I was going to ask her to be my roommate at freshman orientation, got scared, said goodbye. Got yelled at by my parents. Went back to ask her and she was with a group of girls so I said "goodbye" again (came back to say goodbye?! right. awkward). When I got home there was an email from her asking if I wanted to be her roommate. It's been love ever since.
l. She has a "toe thumb." The best part is that she thinks the other one is straight because that is the thumb she sucked as a child.
m. She sent me this letter.