What a difference a week makes....
Last Saturday at this time, I was sitting at home, playing Wii with my Dad and sister with nothing to do until I babysat later in the day. The Packers were playing just like they will today, but I had the ability to watch them from a comfy couch.
This week? I am planning out the most efficient way to get all my homework done before tomorrow is over. There is already a lot of stuff to do that is piling up. Rather than get overwhelmed however, I am blogging!
I sure wish I was at home in the comfort of my own bedroom and just hanging out with my favorite people. But, here I am in Bethany, waiting for "winter weather" to show up. Apparently it could snow, sleet, and become icy tonight!
I am constantly having to remind myself to be content where I am now in my life. For this season, it is being bombarded with homework and living in a dorm room in Oklahoma. In all things, find joy!
Have a great weekend, wherever you might be!
Saturday, January 12, 2013
Friday, January 11, 2013
Playing Catch Up
Hello there friends.
Life has been crazy lately. I can hardly believe it is 2013 already. The year I become a college graduate.
Last semester, despite my good intentions to blog "often"-- I failed miserably. It wasn't because I had nothing to say, but the semester itself was my toughest yet and at times I wondered if I would make it through. I am not saying that to be dramatic at all because it really was the truth. Long story short, I had a professor who was new to my school that taught one of my favorite subjects. I barely could pass the tests and despite multiple trips to the professor's office I was told, "I just don't know what to tell you to help you get the grade you want." I thought that was a really encouraging way to handle a whole class full of people struggling to get through. :D
Anyways, God really taught me a LOT last semester such as, there are things (most everything, in fact) that Jenna Johnson cannot control or change. Other things such as, despite the fact I struggled with Social Psychology and I didn't understand why that was the case most days, that God was still good and still came through with teaching me what I needed to learn - not only through academics. However, I first had to stop and realize that I couldn't conquer Social Psychology, but God could... and then I had to let Him!
Along with that difficult class, I had a full plate of other time consuming classes. I soon found out that having a lot of upper division psychology classes at the same time meant a never ending to-do list of papers and assignments, which left very little time for things other than sleeping and attending classes!
I had an amazing opportunity though, to have my first internship with Reaching Our City, a local non-profit organization here in Bethany. I arrived not really knowing what to expect, but yet again, God provided many teaching and learning moments for me. I witnessed and worked alongside of people who live in poverty and found that my heart needed a serious reality check. I was able to gain some practical experience dealing with a diverse group of people through facilitating an event called the Christmas Toy Store. This program allowed the parents of underprivileged children to take part in a "shopping" experience where brand new toys were able to be chosen for free. Talk about learning the meaning of giving to others!
Christmas break came at the perfect time. I was worn out and ready to go home! I was able to come back to SNU rejuvenated after spending time with my family. We were also able to travel up to Wisconsin where I saw my best friend and other family.
Now, I'm back at school. The semester started yesterday and I am already tired! How does that work? Thankfully this semester is social psychology free and new classes are readily welcomed! After attending all of them, I've determined it will be yet another busy semester, but I think I am ready for the challenge. If God has taught me anything thus far, I cannot accomplish things on my own. Being the control-freak, perfectionist person that I am, it is a hard lesson to learn. In fact, I am still learning. Even though it took me a good two and half years of college to understand just how badly I need Christ daily... even in what I think are the silliest, most minuscule things I don't think He is concerned about.... I am so beyond grateful that God cares about all aspects of my life. This semester, I am encouraged about going through assignments with the assurance that God has brought me this far and He will get me through the rest of college--and the rest of my life--- if I learn to depend on Him. SO simple, but again, my controlling nature seems to get in the way sometimes.
I've learned a valuable lesson in college so far.... life is a learning experience. My expectations freshman year were to graduate with a whole bunch of book knowledge, yet I have been constantly surprised at how many life experiences that I have witnessed in addition to academics. It's been a crazy wonderful journey with all of the ups and downs.
So, here I am... beginning the first weekend of my last spring semester of college. I am officially a senior. I hear senior year is just as crazy as previous semesters... if not more... so I can't make any promises to "blog every day" or even every week. However, looking out my window tonight as I type this post, I can't help but feel blessed that God has His hand on every portion of our lives. He does care about my struggles because He promises to remain faithful in both the easiest and the toughest times. What a blessing it is for me to continually realize and accept His goodness!
Life has been crazy lately. I can hardly believe it is 2013 already. The year I become a college graduate.
Last semester, despite my good intentions to blog "often"-- I failed miserably. It wasn't because I had nothing to say, but the semester itself was my toughest yet and at times I wondered if I would make it through. I am not saying that to be dramatic at all because it really was the truth. Long story short, I had a professor who was new to my school that taught one of my favorite subjects. I barely could pass the tests and despite multiple trips to the professor's office I was told, "I just don't know what to tell you to help you get the grade you want." I thought that was a really encouraging way to handle a whole class full of people struggling to get through. :D
Anyways, God really taught me a LOT last semester such as, there are things (most everything, in fact) that Jenna Johnson cannot control or change. Other things such as, despite the fact I struggled with Social Psychology and I didn't understand why that was the case most days, that God was still good and still came through with teaching me what I needed to learn - not only through academics. However, I first had to stop and realize that I couldn't conquer Social Psychology, but God could... and then I had to let Him!
Along with that difficult class, I had a full plate of other time consuming classes. I soon found out that having a lot of upper division psychology classes at the same time meant a never ending to-do list of papers and assignments, which left very little time for things other than sleeping and attending classes!
I had an amazing opportunity though, to have my first internship with Reaching Our City, a local non-profit organization here in Bethany. I arrived not really knowing what to expect, but yet again, God provided many teaching and learning moments for me. I witnessed and worked alongside of people who live in poverty and found that my heart needed a serious reality check. I was able to gain some practical experience dealing with a diverse group of people through facilitating an event called the Christmas Toy Store. This program allowed the parents of underprivileged children to take part in a "shopping" experience where brand new toys were able to be chosen for free. Talk about learning the meaning of giving to others!
Christmas break came at the perfect time. I was worn out and ready to go home! I was able to come back to SNU rejuvenated after spending time with my family. We were also able to travel up to Wisconsin where I saw my best friend and other family.
Now, I'm back at school. The semester started yesterday and I am already tired! How does that work? Thankfully this semester is social psychology free and new classes are readily welcomed! After attending all of them, I've determined it will be yet another busy semester, but I think I am ready for the challenge. If God has taught me anything thus far, I cannot accomplish things on my own. Being the control-freak, perfectionist person that I am, it is a hard lesson to learn. In fact, I am still learning. Even though it took me a good two and half years of college to understand just how badly I need Christ daily... even in what I think are the silliest, most minuscule things I don't think He is concerned about.... I am so beyond grateful that God cares about all aspects of my life. This semester, I am encouraged about going through assignments with the assurance that God has brought me this far and He will get me through the rest of college--and the rest of my life--- if I learn to depend on Him. SO simple, but again, my controlling nature seems to get in the way sometimes.
I've learned a valuable lesson in college so far.... life is a learning experience. My expectations freshman year were to graduate with a whole bunch of book knowledge, yet I have been constantly surprised at how many life experiences that I have witnessed in addition to academics. It's been a crazy wonderful journey with all of the ups and downs.
So, here I am... beginning the first weekend of my last spring semester of college. I am officially a senior. I hear senior year is just as crazy as previous semesters... if not more... so I can't make any promises to "blog every day" or even every week. However, looking out my window tonight as I type this post, I can't help but feel blessed that God has His hand on every portion of our lives. He does care about my struggles because He promises to remain faithful in both the easiest and the toughest times. What a blessing it is for me to continually realize and accept His goodness!
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Monumental
Most of society would consider the significance of tomorrow to be a monumental moment in life.
Don't get me wrong, tomorrow is a big day, but the reasons don't have anything to do with trying alcohol.
Tomorrow, I turn 21. And that number makes me feel old.
One reason I feel old, is that I think I've reached the beginning point of looking back on previous experiences while reflecting on both the good things and the bad. Above all, I can't stop thinking how overwhelmingly good God has been.
I remember when I was a child and I saw college students and thought they were so mature. I was sure I'd never make it to the point in life where I would be in a place similar to theirs. Yet, here I am... just 4 short weeks from finishing my junior year in college. More than anything, this semester has been my toughest. But, I have found underneath the stress, frustration, and the exhaustion, that I have needed and relied on God in ways that I never have before. Contrary to what I observed my cousins going through years ago, college is so much more educational than just going to class and taking tests. Life experiences are learned that I would have missed out on had God not placed me at SNU. This semester has been tough, but regardless...I am blessed. Many people don't have the opportunity to go to school; let alone live in a beautiful dorm, have a Christian education, or meet some awesome people. Don't even get me started on my family. Without them, I wouldn't be here... it's as simple as that. I just can't express how great they all are or what they mean to me. Their influence, both my parents and my sister, allowed me to find Christ at a young age and continue to cultivate my faith throughout the years. For that alone, I am grateful.
I hope that despite what I face in life, in both the hardships and the joyous moments, that my life will be a reflection of Christ- always.
Even though I feel old, I am blessed... beyond what I deserve. I'm excited to see what year twenty-one has in store!
Don't get me wrong, tomorrow is a big day, but the reasons don't have anything to do with trying alcohol.
Tomorrow, I turn 21. And that number makes me feel old.
Two important things:
1. I have no desire to drink... now or ever... so don't get any ideas.
2. I am so beyond blessed.
One reason I feel old, is that I think I've reached the beginning point of looking back on previous experiences while reflecting on both the good things and the bad. Above all, I can't stop thinking how overwhelmingly good God has been.
I remember when I was a child and I saw college students and thought they were so mature. I was sure I'd never make it to the point in life where I would be in a place similar to theirs. Yet, here I am... just 4 short weeks from finishing my junior year in college. More than anything, this semester has been my toughest. But, I have found underneath the stress, frustration, and the exhaustion, that I have needed and relied on God in ways that I never have before. Contrary to what I observed my cousins going through years ago, college is so much more educational than just going to class and taking tests. Life experiences are learned that I would have missed out on had God not placed me at SNU. This semester has been tough, but regardless...I am blessed. Many people don't have the opportunity to go to school; let alone live in a beautiful dorm, have a Christian education, or meet some awesome people. Don't even get me started on my family. Without them, I wouldn't be here... it's as simple as that. I just can't express how great they all are or what they mean to me. Their influence, both my parents and my sister, allowed me to find Christ at a young age and continue to cultivate my faith throughout the years. For that alone, I am grateful.
I hope that despite what I face in life, in both the hardships and the joyous moments, that my life will be a reflection of Christ- always.
Even though I feel old, I am blessed... beyond what I deserve. I'm excited to see what year twenty-one has in store!
Friday, August 24, 2012
Beginning the "end" of junior year
Hello Fall semester! You're here already!?
My lack of posts over the summer resulted from being tired, working a lot, and taking 3 classes! Needless to say, it was a hectic summer! My last two classes ended TWO days before this semester began!
These are my books for the semester and apparently there will be 60 page "excerpts" from other books that are printed out for me to read too. 4 of my profs so far have sent me on my way with copies of chapters to read and write over!
Praying for a great semester for everyone in school!
My lack of posts over the summer resulted from being tired, working a lot, and taking 3 classes! Needless to say, it was a hectic summer! My last two classes ended TWO days before this semester began!
These are my books for the semester and apparently there will be 60 page "excerpts" from other books that are printed out for me to read too. 4 of my profs so far have sent me on my way with copies of chapters to read and write over!
Praying for a great semester for everyone in school!
Friday, May 4, 2012
Final Friday
Well, today is it. The last Friday of the semester is here, and it is nearly over. In some ways, this semester drug on and on and on and on, but in other ways, it seemed to go by really fast!
I of course, have the countdown set for my last final- and my departure from Oklahoma for a while. I am so ready to head home and spend a few months in my own bed. I'm also excited to spend time with my sweet family! Weekends are the loneliest at college! Just four days and a few hours away from being Texas bound!
The other night, after my food from the cafeteria was burned, I decided I needed some normal food. I went and got my favorite Chinese take out here and it was delish! Tai Pei's Tangerine Beef hit the spot, AND I was able to have three meals from it! Score!
I am one final and one paper away from finishing my sophomore year of college. It does seem like just yesterday I was heading to college and scared to death of the days that would follow. However, now it has become a pattern and studying all the time has become my routine! My last final, Philosophy, is the one I'm really dreading. There is so much to memorize and study and I can't seem to remember it all! I'll be praising Jesus on my drive home Wednesday that I hopefully made it through!
My weekend will consist of a whole lot of this:
....which is of course, Philosophy notes! Even though ancient theories and concepts in Philosophy rarely make sense, I am so thankful for a strong mind which is able to learn new things each day!
Finally, I was getting on the elevator the other night (at midnight!) and when the doors opened, I was greeted with two chairs and a garbage can. I'm happy I was the only one in line, otherwise there wouldn't have been much room for others! When I got off on my floor, two boys with guitars were signing a song about elevators and asked if I enjoyed my ride. They were a little bummed when I told them three floors wasn't necessarily enough time to sit and get comfortable. Oh dear! I thought it was quite clever though, so I applaud them!
Happy weekend!
Friday, April 27, 2012
Update
Hey there! This semester has been busy, busy, busy. My spare moments have been consumed by sleeping :-)
I am less than two weeks away from finishing up my sophomore year of college. I can't really believe it! I have worked out my schedule so that I will graduate in December 2013; a whole semester earlier than I should really graduate. So, this fall, I will be entering as a second semester junior! So thankful to be blessed with a strong mind to learn new things!
Unfortunately, when I head home, I have to begin searching for a car. On my trek back to school from break, I was rear ended (in Fort Worth... my favorite city. NOT!) and then pushed into the car in front of me. Since my car was "sandwiched," it had damage in both the front and the back. I wasn't at fault, and the woman who hit me had insurance, which was a blessing, but, since my car is 12 years old--- no one wants to fix it.
The damage doesn't look like "totaled" damage, but that is what they are saying my car is! We are going to see how much we can get for it, and then use that and the insurance money to get me something different. I am sad, because this 4Runner has been such a great car for me. Maybe this time, I can get something with more than 15 MPG :-)
Now I am just focusing on finishing the semester strong, heading home, having a weekend off, and then starting one of my summer classes 3 days later! It will be a busy summer, but I am ready to be home!
Friday, March 30, 2012
Dorm Life.
Does this happen to anyone else who shares a dorm dryer? EVERY time I was clothes, and then put them in the dryer, the end result is spotty clothes and sheets. After my shirts were nearly ruined, I had the bright idea to just hang dry pretty much everything. While I do drip-dry my sheets every once in a while, I don't always. Today, I took them out of the dryer and I was so frustrated!
This one you can't really tell, but near the bottom, there are so many spots. I guess at least my sheets are clean, even if they don't look like it!
In the basement of our cafeteria, we have a little hang out called Pops. They serve Starbucks coffee!! My newest thing is an Americano with vanilla. Oh they are so addicting. However, this morning, a tall americano was NOT enough to get me through the day.... is it summer yet?! I. am. exhausted.
My countdown as of a few hours ago!! My sweet aunt is flying to Texas to spend her break with my family. I kind of cannot WAIT! Also, I am excited to go home and sleep in my own bed again! Praying I made it home without any trouble!
This semester is coming to a close! I don't remember how many weeks exactly that are left, but there are final projects coming up soon, so that has to mean something!! I have two tests next week, so my weekend will be spent studying!
My school is hosting a little "show" tonight. It's called Lip Sync and basically all types of crazy people get on stage and act out skits and songs and make fools of themselves. One of my football-player friends is in a skit with some of his friends and they are all wearing tights! I am excited and looking forward to a break from studying! Have a great weekend!!
Friday, March 2, 2012
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Thursday
Thanks for the prayers on my test. I don't have the results yet, but I think it went well! I should know on Monday!
I only have one class tomorrow because my other class got cancelled. Hopefully I can sleep in, or finish working on my final paper for one class!
This weekend is full of studying, like normal...hopefully I can go to the lake to enjoy the weather!
Today was gorgeous! It seriously was a wonderful way to welcome March! Two weeks from tomorrow I'll be headed home for spring break! I can't wait!
I only have one class tomorrow because my other class got cancelled. Hopefully I can sleep in, or finish working on my final paper for one class!
This weekend is full of studying, like normal...hopefully I can go to the lake to enjoy the weather!
Today was gorgeous! It seriously was a wonderful way to welcome March! Two weeks from tomorrow I'll be headed home for spring break! I can't wait!
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