I think this looks like Annie Smith

I took this picture while I was waiting for my frappuccino.

I think the barista in the drawing looks like Annie Smith.

See for yourself:

Chicago Photos...

1) At the "Married With Children" fountain




2) At Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs...also in Sleepless in Seattle ("Somewhere where everytime I go around the corner I don't think of Maggie."--Sam Baldwin)

I hit 100 last night

Not in bowling (though I wish my scores were that high)...or in golf (though I wish my scores were that low).

In posts. This is actually #102.

In TV, the 100th episode is a big deal. It certifies your show as "Good TV" otherwise it wouldn't have lasted this long.

Does this mean my blog could be considered "Good Posting"? Probably not, even if people didn't read it, I'm pretty sure I'd keep posting.

Can you name some TV shows that have hit 100 episodes?
I'll start: FRIENDS (And, FYI: The 100th episode of FRIENDS is called THE ONE HUNDREDTH and is the one where Phoebe gives birth to her brothers triplets.) Now if that isn't "Good TV" I don't know what is!

Guilty Pleasures #4

I love to talk to myself. Out loud.

I love to process things aloud in my car, in the shower, in my room, in my office (when Mariah's not around).

I really love to speak in a British accent. Or in a "speech impediment" voice (like Amy Poehler's character on SNL).

Today I stood in the bathroom, looking at myself in the mirror, practicing my speech impediment with fake JH announcement so that I can film a video next week...for about 10 minutes.

I love to pray aloud in a British accent.

Maybe it's blasphemous...but I like to think that God knows everything about me and loves it...why wouldn't He love the part of me that likes to pray out loud in a British accent?

P.S. I'm becoming quite good.

Allison Does Not Work Well With Others

Over the last few days I have had a few truly honest conversations with friends: they have been honest about me, to me.

Tonight a friend told me that I don't work well with others. At first I was caught off guard, but he went on to explain that since I want everything to be done well, I do everything myself. And in that way, I don't work well with others. Totally fair, and honest.

And true. I am aware that my standards are too high at times. But I don't want to cross off "team player" because of my high standards. Most of the time I define "team player" as one who is willing to help whomever, whenever. And I think, in that respect, I could be considered a team player...I want to help get things done...and I want them to be done well.

But, when is excellence a ridiculous thing to expect? Is there anything that is too small to necessitate excellence?

If we are serving the Lord, why would we not put our all in to it?

At what point does pouring our everything in to ministry turn in to being too dry to truly serve the Lord?

I don't want to be difficult to work with. I don't.
But I don't want to sacrifice our excellence level either.

Chicago...

It was so great. I love going on a trip and hanging out. I also love going on a trip and running around, seeing everything.
I guess I just love going on trips.

We spent most of our time with the JH team from Willow Creek. We had a great time. They had planned so much for us: they took us to lunch, let us peek over their shoulders as they put the finishing touches on their weekend, took us out on a boat, with jet skis, wakeboards, etc. (I had jeans on, so I played observer). They ordered Chicago deep dish pizza...which was so delicious that I was sad when I got full, I wanted to eat more...We watched 2 JH services and 1 HS service...We hung out at the JH pastor's house and played darts, watched football and laughed a lot. We went to see Gridiron Gang, we drove through downtown Chicago...It was honestly a blast.

I made pages of notes on things that we could do to improve our ministry. Not even anything super dramatic, just small pieces that they are doing well that I think we could do well as well. (that was meant to be funny, but I think it came across as awkward).

Some Highlights:
* Testing the "Diet Coke & Mentos" phenomenon.
Kurt, Shaun and some of the Willow staff put a bunch (6-10) Mentos in their mouth and poured Diet Coke in too. It shot everywhere. I don't think I have ever laughed so hard with a crowd of people I'd known for 12 hours.

* Driving in the Gay District of Chicago
On the way from Sears Tower to Wrigley Field we took a wrong turn and ended up in Gaysville. No joke: Cocktail, Parrot Bar, Ram, ManHole, GayMart...these are not fictitious names...

* Talking and laughing with Katie until 2:30am
We were in such fun conversation that we didn't even realize what time it was. It was really nice to have someone to relax and hang with.

Okay, now it sounds like I'm writing in a yearbook.
Suffice to say, it was a productive trip.
I'll keep you posted on upcoming changes to our ministry per this trip.

My Favorite Restaurants in the World #6

I know these are supposed to appear on Saturdays, but I figured since I missed it, you probably did too.
Thus, I will post it on Tuesday.

The featured restaurant for today is: Lucille's BBQ, located in Brea, CA...quite near to the Brea Mall (and "The Hat"-the original).

Though I have not been to the South, I like to think that Lucille's is as close to authentic Southern food as you can get in CA.

Let me explain: the beverages are served in little jars...alongside the drinks they serve hot biscuits with apple butter...Then comes the main course. Typically, I order a few side dishes in lieu of a main course...that way I get a small portion of everything I wanted to order. So, with Matt Jensen's full rack of ribs (only about $30, not too bad) comes my sides: macaroni & cheese (which is mouth wateringly delicious), garlic mashed potatoes (also high class), and an appetizer of chicken fingers, or something to make me feel less stupid for ordering 2 side dishes.

Now, I never said this place was low-carb...looking at my order you might wonder if there is anything healthy. I think there are some salads on the menu, but who wants lettuce when you could be eating homemade mac & cheese? Not I.

Honestly. If you have the means, I highly recommend checking it out.

I told Matt Jensen that I would buy him a full rack of ribs for each Harry Potter book he finished. Needless to say, we have not been back since. (That was a year ago!)

Actual Google Searches That Lead Here: Vol. 2

a) Chicago rules...or at least the Willow JH staff.
b) I don't have much more time, so I just decided to post

Actual Google Searches That Lead Here:
world's ugliest dog
fair Sept OR September "Brian Litrell" -video -welcome -healthy
"kidnapped", nbc, song lyrics
matt hibbard

It's my kind of town...

So, in 31 minutes we're leaving for Chicago.
I've never been before, so I'm really excited.

I'm traveling with my friend Katie, so I'm excited about that, too.

We're heading out to Willow Creek to check out their Student Ministries programs. My main focus is to watch how they incorporate and empower their weekend leaders.

With our JH ministry at the largest its ever been (at least weekend attendance-wise), we're going to have to step-up the relational side of our weekends.

I'm not sure if I'll get to blog while I'm gone...I'll try...otherwise, be prepared for a boat-load when I return!

Fall Season--Survivor

Today in the office we started what, I hope, will be a small tradition for the Junior High team.

We sent around the CBS website for Survivor.

Everyone had to choose the winner. Based solely on picture and biography. It was a 'first respond/first choice'.

I chose Sundra.

Matt Hall chose Cao Boi (and then wrote "Giddy Up"). I laughed pretty loud about that...

More to come as the season progresses...

Stolen from Josh Griffin

My friend Josh Griffin has a weekly feature called: "Google Searches that Lead Here"

He helped me out and now I can do the same thing...so here goes.

Actual Google Searches that Lead Here: Vol 1
justin timberlake
kate beckinsale
"practical wedding gifts"
1g12 cab

Google Searches I Wish Lead Here
amazing crossword puzzles
great food reviews
actually kinda funny
runner-up for senior superlative "Most Likely to be Famous"

Crossword Puzzle #3

Across
2. writer/actor of 30 Rock
3. capital of France
7. first anchorwoman
10. Creators of iPOD
11. suri cruise debut magazine
12. Arquette married to Courtney Cox
13. perry of studio 60 on the sunset strip
17. singer wife of Marc Anthony
19. gained his fame from Jackass stunts


Down
1. Frappuccino marketers
4. Jill Munroe--original Charlie's Angel
5. supposed number of "minutes of fame"
6. typical church day
8. amazing race network
9. Disney World state
10. artist, Campbell Soup Cans
14. typical wedding dress color
15. typical rainslicker color
16. Britney Spears' pregnant with her ______ baby
18. peanut butter cups and pieces

RE: Snakes on a Plane

Mat Jensen called me and asked if I would want to meet him at Regal to see this movie.
I said sure.
Cathi, that's how I decided to see it.

I was thinking it might be like a car accident: so bad you couldn't help but watch it.
It actually was like a high school play. Sort of bad, there were some good characters, and overall you weren't super stoked when you left, but not wanting your $10 back.

Also, the "villain" in the movie is named: Eddie Kim!
When I was an intern, HSM had an intern (for a brief time) named Eddie Kim!
So that gave me a laugh every few minutes when they would say "Eddie Kim will stop at nothing to kill you!" or "Eddie Kim is a maniac!"

Oh yes, and then there was that famous Samuel L. Jackson line "I'm tired of these MF snakes on this MF plane!"
I needed to use the restroom pretty much from the start of the movie, but didn't want to miss that line...of course, he didn't say it until the end...I had to hold it for about 2 hours!

Snakes on a Plane

All in all, not a terrible movie...in the B- movie category.

The acting, by most, was pretty laughable. The dialogue was ridiculous at best.

But Samuel L. Jackson kicked some snake butt...and that made it a pretty decent movie.

I'm not saying you should go see it. In fact, if you have $10 to go see it, give it to me instead. I could use $10.

My Favorite Restaurants in the World #5

Today's installment of my Favorite Restaurants is from New York City. (Yes, another...and a few more to come).

Serendipity 3 is a delicious eaterie in New York's Upper East Side (East 60th between 2nd & 3rd). Just a block(ish) away from Bloomingdale's.

Now, this is a location most people are aware of because they filmed a movie of the same, starring John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale. (side note: we were in NYC when they were filming this movie--same day they were filming in the park for an episode of Sex and the City).

So, Serendipity. Outside of movie fame, they boast an amazing Frrrozen Hot Chocolate (or, my favorite Peanut Butter Frrrozen Hot Chocolate)...among a list of other pretty fabulous desserts.

What few people know, is that their Chicken Pot Pie is also worth ordering. The menu is chuck full of sandwiches, burgers and salads...oh, and a foot-long hot dog.

Honestly, eating there is so worth it.

It's a bit pricey, and the service is kinda slow...so make a reservation (FYI, reservations are for meals only, you may not order solely desserts) and plan to make an afternoon of it.

I enjoy the atmosphere and food at Serendipity 3 in New York City. One of my Favorite Restaurants in the World.

tonight.

I had a great time this evening. Despite my sleepiness, Matt Jensen convinced me to hang out with some people.
Here's the fun part about this group: all of them are from different 'eras' in my life and they have now fused together to form a group. Two years ago if you had told me that these 4 would be friends...show up in a car together...and hang out without others to unite the pack, I would have said you were joking!

You know the strange feeling in your dream when you look around and you're standing next to your 3rd grade teacher. And behind him is your neighbor. And then the woman at the checkout counter is your local barista? That was this evening. I just kept thinking how random the group was.

Despite the eclectic group, it was a really great night. And a really late night too.
Technically I should be blogging about a favorite restaurant since it is Saturday right now...but I'll save that for noonish.

I check blogs twice a day...

I was talking to Matt McGill last night while I was checking blogs on the computer in his kitchen nook.

He was teasing me for "catching up on my bloggery". (his words, not mine).

I told him that I like to look twice a day at the blogs of others; once in the morning before work, and once in the evening before bed. I like to see what people have to say...I'm interested.

I also feel like commenting on the blogs of others is a decent way to be a good friend. (Oh, how our world has changed.)

Anyway, Matt says he only checks about once a week.

How often do you check?

Shaggy is a genius.

I'm not talking about this Shaggy.






I mean Shaggy as in "Mr. Boombastic". For those of you who just began to sing "...very fantastic..." in your head, let me explain. I am not making this statement based on his music.

His pure brilliance lies in his business strategy.

Look, this man turns out one hit single every year or so. And by doing so, he remains famous. He is then free to slip back in to the night with his pockets full of cash. When the funds are low...quick, write another hit!...and top of the charts again!

Honestly, he's been famous (in my world) since I was in 7th grade. (Boombastic)...so 1995ish? Since then he has released 6 songs that I can audibly recognize (of the 150 recorded Shaggy songs on iTunes).

That is 1 hit every 1.8 years (roughly). And as lame as they are, most adults between the ages of 16 and 45 would be able to sing a few lines from "It Wasn't Me" or "Angel" or "Luv Me, Luv Me" (Mr. Lover, Lover)...

I'm telling you, he is arguably as famous as Carlos Santana, (okay, maybe that's a bad example)...but he is pretty famous...and he has not needed to record as many albums...or mass amounts of ridiculous compilation duet CDs.

And furthermore, he has not needed to reinvent himself with culture change. All of his songs sound the same...and nobody minds. They all head-bob along.

All I'm saying is, if I'm ever famous, I'm hoping to get some business (not musical) tips from Shaggy. Because that man is smart.

Oh! Guilty Pleasures. (#3)

I almost forgot to divulge a Guilty Pleasure for this Wednesday evening.

My Guilty Pleasure for today is: 80's Television.

I LOVE Growing Pains. And The Cosby Show.

I own Seasons 1 & 2 of The Cosby Show. And Season 1 of Growing Pains.
(Any other seasons would be appropriate gifts for me.)

If I could travel back in time, I would marry Bill Cosby. Or Kirk Cameron (pre-Left Behind days). When he looked like this:




Seriously, who could resist that?

(I just asked Matt Jensen and he said these 1980 marriages are not offensive to him.)

And, FYI, my favorite episode of each show is:

COSBY: "Happy Anniversary"--Season 2, Episode 3. (Dr. Huxtable's parents: Anna and Russell are celebrating their wedding anniversary, the Huxtable Family sings "(Night Time Is) The Right Time" by Ray Charles. Rudy lip synchs "Baby!")

GROWING PAINS: "Reputation"--Season 1, Episode 18. (Mike is studying for a test, decides to cheat by writing answers on the bottom of his shoes. But, while writing it all, he begins to learn. During the test, he knows it all and doesn't need to cheat. He gets an A. Then comes the best line: "I am number 1!"--Since he has a bad reputation, they think he cheated...it's a great storyline!)

Until next week. Watch more classic TV.

The book.

I've been reading this new book...

Special Topics in Calamity Physics by Marisha Pessl.

We've decided (or I've asked and I'm hoping Matt agrees) to name our first daughter Blue (probably spelled Blu).

Blu Jensen.

I love it.

Also, Cathi and Josh will recieve copies of this book because they are both big readers...and love most of the same books that I love...if you are an avid reader, what books do you love? **Note: Your answer may qualify you to receive a copy as well.

Beautifully written

I'm reading a great book right now. In fact, I stopped mid-chapter and purchased two copies for my friends Josh Peters and Cathi Workman (Surprise, guys! You're gifts will be shipped in 3-5 working days).

Here's the sentence that spurred the Amazon.com visit:

"It was one of those chime-laughs that knifed cleanly through the morning, through the tired muttering of all the other kids, hinting this person had never known embarrassment or awkwardness, that even her grief would be gorgeous in the off-chance she ever experienced it."

I wish I could write like that. Someday. Maybe.

who knew?

Apparently if you want to be a millionaire all you have to do is open your own embroidery business.

Poor Brian spent all day calling and questioning embroidery companies (embroiderists? embroiderers?) to try and have some Wildside shirts embroidered...turns out no one will embroider a darn thing for under $20.

Seriously. I must be in the wrong business.

Who knew?

This is in no way meant as a reference to the Bon Jovi song.

When waiters or cashiers tell me to "have a nice day", do they really mean it? Or is it simply a space filler?

I picked up my to-go order at Wahoo's yesterday, after I had paid, I was trying to balance my food whilst getting my keys and the woman behind the counter said, "Have a nice day".

As I left, I couldn't help but wonder if she only said that because she felt she had to say something, and "goodbye" wasn't appropriate at that moment. She had already said "thank you", but needed more closure. But I doubt very much that she cared about the remainder of my afternoon and evening.

When I worked at Starbucks, I would use the phrase almost as an impulse. I would hand them the change, or their beverage, and say "Thank you! Have a nice day!". I meant it when I said it to the cute guys (grande caramel latte or iced venti quad vanilla latte)...but I would also say it to the crazies (grande chai with 7 pumps of chai, no water, extra foam and in a blue cup or triple venti nonfat, extra whip, mocha) and I'm not 100% sure if I meant it.

I am beginning to feel the same way when people tell me to "drive safely". I'm thinking that you couldn't come up with anything better to say in that moment. I said it tonight. Because I couldn't think of anything better to say.


What other phrases are used as silence-avoiders?

"you should blog about this..."

Here's a list of things people have told me to "blog about" this weekend.
I may expand on a few of these sometime:

1) Wearing the same dress as Johnny Baker's wife at the wedding today.
2) Some kid ruining my nice new shoes at a birthday party.
3) Eating Leigh's daughter's food at the wedding. (He told me I should make it my "favorite restaurant in the world")

Okay so there weren't that many, but I had told Leigh that I was going to blog about this...so I did.

"The Faithful"

Right now on iTunes, they have "Back to School" Playlists.

Seen here

They are divided up by 'cliques', so there is: "Hippies", "Sk8ers", "Greeks"...and a list titled "The Faithful".

Here's the description:
The Faithful can be hard to recognize at first,
but a quick glance at their music collection will
offer up names like Newsboys and Jars of Clay.
Key factors to be aware of: large periods of time
may elapse in conversation without hearing any
foul language, song lyrics are taken especially
to heart, and inspirational quotes are in abundance
(whether in printed form or conversational).

And, to be fair, the playlist is actually pretty good.
Crowder, Relient K, Plumb, Natalie Grant...
Oh, and Brian Littrell (yes, of BSB--Backstreet Boy--fame)

They could have pegged them for Michael W. Smith and Cheri Keaggy, or Amy Grant.

Crikey! The Croc Hunter died!

Of all the animals that Steve Irwin tackled, who would have thought a stingray would cause his death?

He swam with crocodiles, for crying out loud!

Read more about it here.

Crossword Puzzle #2

Across
1. Jessica Simpson's new love
2. October holiday
4. Harry Potter's brilliant companion
5. star of Rounders
7. beverage sold exclusively by 7-11
9. author, THE FIRM
10. sings about her "london bridge"
11. one-eyed face in playing cards
14. Gwyneth Paltrow's daughter
15. Steve Carrell on The Office
18. popular search engine
21. Emmy award winner for Best Actor
24. one of the Jacksons
25. popular number puzzles
26. known for difficult crossword puzzles
27. singer or sea mammal
28. new addition to "The View"
29. popular low-carb diet

Down
1. star of The Pelican Brief
3. comedienne Sarah
6. Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje's character on LOST
8. academy award winner for Good-Will Hunting
12. host of Jeopardy
13. villian in Peter Pan
16. late night talk show host o'brien
17. number of Star Wars movies
19. nickname of Britney Spears' husband
20. time machine in Back to the Future
22. scooter or cell phone
23. water made by Coca-Cola

I really like to be taken "to the chorus"

At the risk of sounding like a 15-year old KIIS FM lover, I really dig Justin Timberlake's "SexyBack" song.

The words are rather sketch...but I can't help dancing as he tells me to "get my sexy on".

The album is out on September 12th. All I'm saying is, I'll be at Target sometime that day picking up my copy.

Dear McGills,

I hope you love me and Matt Jensen alot...because here are the shows I hope to watch at your house this season.

Mondays:
9-10 Heroes (NBC)
10-11 Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip (NBC)

Tuesdays:
American Idol (FOX--beginning in January)

Wednesdays:
8-8:30 30 Rock (NBC)
9-10 LOST (ABC)
9-10 (Tivo) The Biggest Loser (NBC)
10-11 Kidnapped (NBC)

Thursdays:
8-9 (Tivo) Smallville (CW)
8:30-9 The Office (NBC)
9-10 The OC (FOX)

Sundays:
8-9 The Amazing Race (CBS)
8-8:30 (Tivo) the Simpsons
9-9:30 (Tivo) Family Guy

I think the season begins in two weeks (or so)...see you every night after that.
Your friend,
Alice

My Favorite restaurants in the World #4

In order to enjoy this favorite restaurant, you would have to travel all the way to the other side of the world.
This is not 100% a restaurant, but it is the 'catering' part of a hotel...so there is sitting and food involved.

My favorite restaurant for today is THE KITALE CLUB.

The Kitale Club is the "hotel/resort" we stay at in Kitale, Kenya.

Now, I know what you're thinking...you're thinking I was hurting for restaurant ideas, or just wanting to insert Africa...but you are incorrect.

The Kitale Club happens to make the BEST grilled cheese and french fries ever. Honestly. That is my favorite meal in Kenya. So much so that on my first trip, that is all that I ordered for lunch and dinner for 2 weeks. They also make a mean 'chicken and cheese' sandwich.

If you have the means, I highly recommend checking it out. Oh, and order a Coke. Because Coke from a glass bottle...with grilled cheese and french fries...magnificent!

speaking of amazing photo searches.

This week is National Waffle Week...and I wanted to make an announcement in JH this weekend.
So, naturally, I was looking for a picture of waffles to use for the background.
When I typed waffles in, this is the photo that showed up:



I didn't use it for the announcement, but I sure as heck saved it for future use! He's just so cute...and so excited for his waffles!

do you sudoku?

I do. And I'm totally loving it.

I try to do a few puzzles every night to wind down before bed. I've really found my process...but if I try to finish too quickly, I get all messed up.

Anyway, I know I'm a nerd for blogging about it, but it is seriously a large part of my life these days.

Also...when I typed 'nerd' in to google, this is the first picture that came up:

In about 7 weeks

It will be my birthday.
Just in case you would like to buy me a ridiculously over-priced, beautiful but soon out of style, birthday gift...
Please purchase these...size 10.
Thank you, in advance.

Things I have known in recent conversations because I've seen FRIENDS too many times...

1) Yemen is an actual country.
2) Who Soupy Sales is.
3) The colony of Jamestown was in Virginia.
4) Oklahoma has a city named Muskogee.
5) What Ultimate Fighting is.
6) Hummus is made from the chickpea.

More to come, I'm sure...

Guilty Pleasures #2

Time for another Guilty Pleasure...

My guilty pleasure for today is: Board Games

I love board games. I could play them all night.
My favorites are Sorry and Yahtzee.

I also love the Scene It: FRIENDS...and Scene It: Harry Potter (though that one is very tough).

Matt and I played "I Love the 80s" game tonight (even though we were both born during the 80s and had not seen a few of the shows or movies to answer the questions...) It was pretty fun. But I'd really like to play "I Love the 90s". I think I'd be pretty good at it.

I'm a total loser...

I watched The Emmys tonight.
I had Tivoed them on Sunday night after only watching half at my mom's.
That's not the part that makes me a loser.
Nor the fact that I actually watched some of the commercials even though it was Tivoed.
Nor is it the fact that I watched them while doing Su Doku.

No. What makes me a loser is that one of the commercials that I watched was for The Office season premiere.
All about Jim and Pam...the cliffhanger...

And while I was watching it, I started to cry.

I know, I'm a total loser.
But I'm also a sucker for romance...even the fake tv mockumentary romance.

Here's the commercial that could bring a tear to a glass eye...or just mine. twice. (I was double-checking to see that this was the right commercial...and I am totally crying again. LOSER!)

My very first crossword puzzle

As most of you know, my dream is to someday write crossword puzzles for People Magazine.
So, what I've decided to do is create a portfolio of my own crossword puzzles (in case I ever go for an interview and need to show samples of my work).

Here is my first attempt. I'll admit, it was harder than I thought it would be. But bear with me, I imagine I'll progress.



Across
3. urkel star--now a motivational speaker
4. new album 'continuum' in stores in september
8. racecar driving ferrell
9. pavarotti, domingo, carreras: the three ______
10. capital of norway
11. cruise and selleck
12. documentary on cross-word puzzles

Down
1. the magazine i will work for someday
2. what you are reading right now
3. rachel greene
5. award show that aired sunday night
6. boyfriend to cameron diaz, justin
7. joan to melissa rivers
11. check your local listings

the weekend

So it was a packed weekend...but I feel more excited coming out of it than drained...which is pleasantly surprising.

Friday we took 58 girls and 12 leaders to L.A. for the day. We went to Ripley's Believe it or Not, ate at a fairly sketchy McDonald's (some went to a much more sketchy Burger King), then we did a photo scavenger hunt (Becky Pogue ended with a stealing-home-in-the-bottom-of-the-ninth-tie-score-world-series slide in to the 'home base' table...it was very well received, though she did lose the competition...sorry Becky), then some free time to shop, bowling at Lucky Strike, 2 hours in freeway traffic, dinner at the Foothill Food Court...Elizabeth and I shuttled borrowed vans back to their owners until about 11pm...It was such a great day. Elizabeth's going to run it next year and it's gonna be even better!

Saturday morning we (Elizabeth, Alanna and I) met at 7:15 to drive up to Irvine to a staff retreat. The morning was really refreshing. Rick talked about the working through discouragement...the importance of resting and replenishing your body and mind. It was so much more than I thought the morning would be.

Then Wildside had a beach baptism. I wasn't there, but I heard we had a great turn out. 13 students and about 75 family members. So cool! I stayed behind and had an amazingly productive afternoon. Have you ever had one of those days where you feel as though time must have stopped because there is no way you could have done so much in so little time? That was what these 3 hours were like. Such a load off of my mind to have that piddly stuff done.

Then off to band practice. We had 2 new 7th grade boys singing with us this weekend. They were actually really good. They sang well and had the beginnings of some good stage presence. And plus, you just wanted to squeeze their little faces they were so cute singing.

Saturday night I watched 3 episodes of FRIENDS and completed about 5 sudokus...and still went to bed at 9:45!

Sunday morning, more services. Good turnout of volunteers...especially at the 9am. When a boy hit the impossible shot, a bunch of the guys ran around the room cheering...it was cool to see how many yellow shirts we really had there. Oh, and I sang "Crazy" by Gnarls Barkley...it was a fun experience (the bass player with a giant head-banging afro made it even better).

Sunday afternoon I went to a wedding shower. I love practical wedding gifts: blenders, toasters, waffle makers, cereal bowls. GENIUS! I'm all about practicality with gifts.

Sunday 4:30 service was actually filled with some participation. Not 100% participation, but maybe 65-75%. Which is great for that service.

We gave out Hostess Snack Cakes this weekend...they were sitting on each chair when students walked in. A sign was on the screen saying "please don't eat your snack cake until the end of the service". Kurt spoke on self-control, to wrap up our 10-week Fruit of the Spirit series. Students (most) actually had enough self-control to wait and eat them at the end. Very cool.

After all of the services, I went to my mom's. We had dinner and talked about the weekend. I made some goody bags for my friend's birthday party (well, her 7-year olds party)...we watched the Emmy's. Then I went to Matt's and he worked on homework while I brainstormed some weekend stuff.

Good things are coming. I promise.

My Favorite Restaurants in the World #3

It's Saturday. And you know what that means.

Today, I thought I would show a little California love and share about one of my favorite restaurants in CA. (It is not a CA-only restaurant, but it is not in London...which is a shame!)

I'll bet you can guess what it is...Chipotle.

Absolutely delicious...a majority of you probably don't need convincing because you have been there yourself...but just in case.

Chipotle is Americanized Mexican Food at its finest. The portions are gigantic, so that $7 will last you about 85% of the day.

I love that they are able to make so many different choices while only offering 4 or 5 menu options: tacos (hard or soft), burritos, burrito bowls, salads. They are unburritable.

It may seem like a cop-out to talk about Chipotle so early on in the favorite restaurants list, but it really is my favorite...and I had it for lunch today...

Until next time. Eat at Chipotle.

Frustrating Things

I had a very frustrating afternoon. I think mostly because there was so much happening that my head was spinning trying to remember it all. Everything is ready to go...and it will be great.
But in all the madness, this list was created in my head:

1. If you see someone drowning in the weight of their responsibilties, ask if you can help. Even if you won't actually be able to remove any of that weight, just asking makes that someone feel better, feel cared for.

2. Don't ever assume someone is pregnant. Saying things like "How far along are you?" or "Have some cheesecake, it will be good for the baby!" is not helpful to the non-pregnant woman...or your face, because you're about to be punched.

3. I will delete your name from my "Blogs I read Daily" list if you do not blog for more than 2 weeks. Otherwise, I am lying to all of the people who visit my blog. I can not, in fact, read your blog daily, if it's been old for a fortnight.

4. Backing out on an event at the last minute is a crappy thing to do.

5. On the off chance you see 75 waters (still in the box) sitting around, please do not help yourself. Chances are they were purchased for something specific, say a Girl's Day. Taking 3 or 4 waters only means that 3 or 4 of those 75 event attendees will be rather parched because of your selfish entitlement.

Excellence vs. Perfection

If you have read more than one of my posts, you have probably realized that I am a little snobby.
I am coming to terms with this...but have not yet decided that anything about that needs to change.
Matt (my boyfriend) says this is a direct result of how I was raised. (My brother is amazingly snobby as well.)

So, in keeping with the snobbiness (not an actual word)...today's thoughts.

Is there a difference between excellence and perfection?

I think so. I think perfection would be free from error, whereas excellence would be to the best of your ability.

If this is the case, I don't see anything wrong with striving for excellence all of the time.

Why is it that some people are okay with being mediocre?
Why do something if you are going to half-ass it?

(This coming from the girl who did just enough to get by in college. Hooray for a 3.0!)

Guilty Pleasures

Jason Pogue told me that it's stupid to have a recurring blog on Saturday's because nobody reads blogs on Saturdays. (Not entirely true; I read blogs on Saturday...twice.)

Anyway, I decided to create a Tuesday recurring blog as well. This one will have very little to do with food...and, instead, have everything to do with other things I love.

And now, for your enjoyment, Guilty Pleasure #1.

Guilty Pleasure #1: Love Songs on the KOST
(These are, in no way, in order. This was just the spark of this mighty and beautiful flame.)

Tonight as I drove home from my mom's, I sang along with Diana Ross and Lionel Richie to "Endless Love".
I have to say, I loved it. I really liked singing

"No one can deny, this love I have inside. And I'll give it all to you. My love. (My love, my love). My endless love."

The best and worst part about it? I found myself hoping that the next song would be Olivia Newton-John "I Honestly Love You".

But seriously, one night I was Kosting along with Karen Sharp and I listened as she read the dedication, "Sally is Kosting along in Bellflower. She says she loves you Jim and she is so glad that you've decided to open your arms and give her your heart. So she's dedicating this next song to you, Jim. She's hoping you'll be her forever lover...And so, from Sally to Jim, here's "Pour Some Sugar on Me" (okay, so it wasn't Def Leppard, but it was something ridiculously unfitting.)

So, that's my Guilty Pleasure.
Stay tuned.

Oh, and check in on Saturdays. (but not you, Jason Pogue)

I hope to someday have a family that takes the meaning of 'togetherness' this seriously...

Amazing...

Oh, and this is for Josh Griffin:

fake or flight?

How do you act around someone you don't really like?
What if you have to spend mass amounts of time with them?

Do you play fake?
Do you confront the situation and let it be awkward as all get out?

I'd really like to know.

Right now, my response it to play fake. I act as though this person is my friend (or at least tolerable), when in reality I can't wait until the conversation is over and I can walk away.

How long do you wait before acknowledging to yourself that you just don't mesh with this person and stop trying?
I hate being fake. It feels so see through...but I don't think I can react in any other way...

Maybe I sound shallow...or stuck-up...but I have a strong suspicion this person feels the same way about me.

Help!

Packing and Moving

So, how close to a move do you pack the essentials?

We are moving offices on Thursday and I have been packing my A-to-Z off since last Thursday afternoon. I have bare walls now and all of my drawers and cabinets sufficiently stowed.

But, I am having some issues with the small necessities.

When do I pack my stapler, post-its, paperclips and pens? I need these items daily. But I will not feel TRULY packed if these are still on my desk. Do I put them in a box and only close the box on Wednesday night?

Oh yeah, I'm also plotting to take my sweet chair to the new offices. I'm not sure when or how, but if you have a suggestion, I'm all ears.

I just...

killed a spider in my bathtub.

I can't kill spiders with kleenex because I don't like feeling the crunch of its corpse between my fingers.

I sprayed it with air freshener until it had trouble moving...a few of its legs stopped working.

Then I turned on the shower and washed him down the drain.

If he lives now, I'll take him out front and let him go free.

I know, this way was much more humane...

Under-Rated Actors

This is a short list of actors I think should get more attention than they do:

1. Jonathan Silverman
I LOVED his show "The Single Guy". I was kinda sad when it was cancelled.
I'm watching "Weekend at Bernie's" right now, I really like him.

2. Jon Cryer
I always wanted to meet Ducky. I think we could have been in love.
I know he's on a new show...but I don't think it's a huge hit or anything...

My favorite restaurants in the World #2

Hello. It's time for another rousing edition of "My Favorite Restaurants in the World".
For those of you that missed #1, I set up the concept and then discussed Dallas BBQ.
You can read about it here.

So, for week #2, I would like to take you all to my favorite city in the world (an entirely separate list): LONDON!

My favorite restaurant in all of London is WAGAMAMA.
Now, here's an important thing to remember: sometimes the food that is the best is not the food from that country.
Wagamama is Japanese food that really is so delicious I could fly there right now.
The last time we were in London, we ate at Wagamama's at least 8 times in 15 days.

I know that it's lame to say "everything is good", but seriously, we have never been let down.

My favorite (and by favorite I mean the only item I would order because I didn't want to risk being let down by any other meal...left to wish that I would have stuck to the familiar just to have something truly delicious) is the Chicken Ramen.
Chicken Ramen is similar to a fancy bowl of Top Ramen, served with sliced grilled chicken, spinach and some menma (which is a nice name for bamboo--it tastes like unflavored mushrooms).

Matt's favorite is...well, let's be honest, Matt eats anything. Matt is VERY adventurous with his food (more on that later)...so he orders something new everytime. On our last night in London, we took some of our friends out to Wagamama...Matt ordered TWO meals because he couldn't decide which to order as his last Wagamama for a while.

Oh yes, also order some GYOZA (Chicken Dumplings)...And some Edamame.

And, I've been told that the Asahi Beer is quite good with the rice dishes...but I typically stick to the Diet Coke (1) because I'm on Saddleback Staff and (2) because it's served in a glass bottle...and coke in a glass bottle is WAY better.

Okay. Here is the website if you'd like to visit and wish you lived in a country that was blessed with fine cuisine.
Also, I own the cookbook if you feel adventurous and would like to make me dinner one night.

Mish, there is a whole load of vegetarian meals there too...so you don't have to miss out.

Until next week...I will, once again, leave you with a picture of me enjoying this delicious food.
And FYI, I'm having Top Ramen for dinner as a sad substitute for Chicken Ramen.

have you ever?

Had one of those weeks where you feel like you are constantly making lists in your head to remind yourself of things you still need to do?

That is my week this week.

I'm not saying this so you feel bad, I'm just letting you know why I haven't been all about posting.

I promise, I'll come back around.

in honor...

I've chosen not to blog today in honor of David Hughes' brilliance.

Check it out.

I look everyday in anticipation of a good LOL.

He has not failed me this week.

Come on David, don't let me down now.

countries

I'm in to lists today. Brian Hurst challenged me to name countries.
There are 243 countries (according to Wikipedia). I'll bet I can name at least half. (let's say half is 122).

Here goes:

United States Romania Niger Antartica
Canada Ireland Nigeria Yemen
Mexico Albania Chad Krygrezstan
Panama United Kingdom Liberia South Africa
Haiti France Australia Democratic Republic of Congo
Jamaica Nepal New Zealand Malawai
Peru Bhutan Papua New Guinea Russia
Dominican Republic Malaysia Ethiopia Lebanon
Cuba Bangladesh Madagascar The Congo
Caribbean Crete Sicily Spain
Greenland Mauritania Vatican City Portugal
El Salvador Monacco Sweden Ukraine
Puerto Rico Lichtenstein Peru Pakistan
Colombia Malta Iceland Slovenia
Venezuela Palestine Finland Cote D'Ivoire
Honduras Fiji Malta Benin
Barbados Australia Togo Senegal
Guatemala Sudan Netherlands Libya
Bolivia Kenya Denmark Isreal
Paraguay Egypt Belgium Thailand
Uruguay Mongolia Uganda Hong Kong
Chile Laos Bali Abudabi
Ecuador Tibet Tanzania Yugoslavia
Brazil Indonesia Somalia Persia
Argentina Philippine Islands Cameroon Armenia
Costa Rica Taiwan Zaire
Guam China Myanmar
Switzerland Japan Khazakstan
Austria Tunisia Iraq
Czechezlovakia Angola Iran
Germany Botswana Uzbekestan
Italy Mozambique Sierre Leone
Turkey Swaziland North Korea
Greece Ghana South Korea
Poland Algeria Lithuania


Not bad. 130 total. There are 113 I couldn't name.
That's a LOT of countries.

Off to Su Doku...and FRIENDS Season 5. (Mind rest...)

50 states and capitals

Here I go...trying to name all 50 states and capitals as fast as I can.

It's 8:47. Go!

Alabama Montgomery
Alaska Juno
Arizona Phoenix
Arkansas
California Sacramento
Colorado Denver
Connecticut
Delaware Dover
Florida Talahassee
Georgia Atlanta
Hawaii Honolulu
Idaho Boise
Illinois Chicago
Indiana Indianapolis
Iowa
Kansas Topeka
Kentucky
Louisiana Baton Rouge
Maine
Maryland Annapolis
Massachussetts Boston
Michigan Lansing
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana Helena
Nebraska Lincoln
Nevada Carson City
New Hampshire
New York Albany
New Mexico Santa Fe
North Dakota Bismark
South Dakota
Wyoming Cheyenne
Washington Seattle
Oregon Salem
Ohio Columbus

That's 37 states...which am I missing? But only 27 capitals...

West Virginia Charleston
Virginia
South Carolina Columbia
North Carolina Raleigh
Wisconsin
Pennsylvania
Vermont
Rhode Island

45...still 5 more?! and 30

Texas Austin
Oklahoma Oklahoma City
Tennessee Nashville

48 states, 33 capitals...It's 9:14.
I stink at this game!


(By the way, I looked it up...I'm missing Utah and New Jersey)

did you know...

each drop of blood in your body goes through your heart every one minute.

that is very interesting to me...
though I am also quite interested in how quickly (and successfully) I can name all 50 states and their capitals.

I think I'll try tomorrow.

Books...

I found this on Mark Oestreicher's blog and thought it was pretty cool.
I'd be interested to read other people's answers to this as well. (Especially you, Josh Peters)

1. One book that changed your life: Intensity by Dean Koontz. This is the book that made me love reading. (The same is true for you, Alanna, right?)

2. One book that you’ve read more than once: The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

3. One book you’d want on a desert island: The Complete Works of Shakespeare or the entire Harry Potter series.

4. One book that made you laugh: A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius by Dave Eggers. Good stuff. It reminds me a lot of having a conversation with Todd Cooper...only better.

5. One book that made you cry: The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks. (Really anything he writes makes me cry)

6. One book you wish had been written: How to Become the People Magazine Crossword Puzzle Author. My dream job...honestly.

7. One book you wish had never been written: War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy...I'm sure as an English major I'm not supposed to say that, but has anyone actually read this book? I don't think so. People like to claim they have...they're lying. I tried to read it once, but I couldn't...

8. One book you’re currently reading: Special Topics in Calamity Physics by Marisha Pessl

9. One book you’ve been meaning to read: Pawn of Prophecy by David Eddings. This was part of my agreement with McGill: if he read Harry Potter, I would read this book. He has since read the entire series and I have read 3 pages.

10. One book you’d like to write: How to Love Shakespeare. So few people do.

Blog #50

This is a big deal, I think.

50 posts...well, 49 and this one...

50 is a good number.

It is the number of states in the U.S.
It is the number of most commonly used prepositions.
It is the number of Beautiful People in the People Magazine issue of beautiful people.
My dad is 50. (Okay that one doesn't count, my blog didn't turn 50.)

I think I'm just getting in to my element with this whole blog thing.
Get ready...things are about to get good.

Weekend Thoughts

I have been thinking this over a ton...but have been sort of unable to make any changes...at least as things are now.

I would love to change the face of our weekend ministry. I really think amazing things could happen if we had the volunteers.

Right now, as it has been for a while, the emphasis of the weekend is on the program. The weekend revolves around what happens on stage and a "successful" weekend is based on how smooth and exciting each piece is.

This is great. Obviously, there is no way the weekend will completely stop focusing on the stage elements...but what about the crowd?

There are an average of 250 students at our services. What about them? Will they remember the messages? Probably not. Will they remember the games? Maybe, some of them. Will they remember the volunteer who knew their name and greeted them each weekend...knew when they weren't around...was able to ask about the important life issues? More than likely.

We, as a JH team, cannot know each student by name. We cannot keep track of each individual student. We cannot ask each one how his or her life is going. We aren't expected to do so for the 600 students in our weekly small group program, so why should we be expected to do so during a weekend?

We need volunteers. We need lots of them. Otherwise our ministry to the weekend students will remain just okay.

I don't know if I'm okay with it staying that way.

Cash Cab

For those of you who live outside of the Discovery Channel bubble...let me enlighten you on my new favorite game show: Cash Cab.

This is a game show that takes place in a New York City cab. Ben, the driver, picks up unsuspecting taxi-users, and quizzes them on the way to their destination. The value of each question rises as the level of difficulty rises. One strike for each wrong answer, three strikes and you're out...which means he literally pulls his cab over wherever they are and kicks the passengers out.

So, you must be able to see why I love this show.

Here are a few sample questions, so you will be ready when you see the lights of cab 1G12. And you hear Ben say "You're in the Cash Cab!"

**Here are the local listings if you want to check out this amazing show for yourself.**

My favorite restaurants in the whole world

When Matt or I tell someone we went to London, one of the questions they typically ask is, "How's the food? I've heard it's disgusting". Well my uncultured friend, you would be incorrect. Technically, anywhere you go could have disgusting food...it all depends on where you eat. If you came to CA and only ate Del Taco and Miguel's, then, to you, CA would have terrible food.

So, I would like to take a moment each Saturday to tell you about one of my favorite restaurants in the whole wide world. This way, you have no excuses when you travel to other states or countries, but to enjoy the local eateries and leave satisfied.

We will begin our Festival of Food in New York City, seeing as I just returned from a brief visit.

One of my favorite restaurants in all of NYC is Dallas BBQ.

For just $6.99 you can have yourself a half chicken, smothered in bbq sauce and served with fries or a potato and some cornbread. For rib lovers, that half chicken can be accompanied with a rack of ribs for just a few dollars more.

That's right my friend, a whole meal...too much for even Matt Jensen...for under $15.

Oh, and that $15 includes a "Texas-size" soda (which is the biggest soda you will find in any New York restaurant...believe me, I've asked).

Here is a picture of me and my dad enjoying said dinner. Note the Texas-size drinks, as well as the "onion loaf", a large piling of onion rings served in a dome formation. (In this picture it is almost gone...we hadn't eaten all day)



Until next Saturday...eat now, thank me later.

Things I Love About My Home:

Here is a list of the 10 things I was the most excited for when I returned home from camp today.

1) Not having to haul all of the shower necessities to and from the shower with me.
I love being able to leave things in the shower and not worry they will go missing or grow spider webs.

2) Not having to use seat covers to go to the bathroom.
To some, this may be insignificant, but to me it is wonderful.

3) Not having to touch dirty things after washing my hands.
As a budding germaphobe, I have to admit, the idea of washing my hands in a sink used by 90 junior high girls makes me
sick. I washed my hands in my home today with hot water, lots of soap, and an actual towel (no more wiping it on paper towels--with dispenser handles that are just as dirty as my pre-washed hands).

4) Not having to brush my teeth in a sink that is filled with other people's hair.
I think this one speaks for itself. No germ fears required.

5) Not carrying around the entire camp's worth of dust in my nasal cavities.
I know this is a total junior high observation, but in that much dirt, there is no way anything clear or white comes out of your nostrils.

6) Having water pressure more powerful than someone spitting at me.
If my shower and your shower got in a fight...mine would win, everytime. We have amazing water pressure in my house. (I know I already mentioned my shower, but it's that important to me)

7) Not having to listen to 12 other people's thoughts and conversations.
I totally dig camp. Seriously, I do. I really like having all of that time with students. I don't think you can build relationships like that in any other place. But, I like silence too. All I can hear right now is the sound of tapping computer keys. LOVE IT!

8) Not having to wear shoes.
Stepping out of the shower, or off of my bed and not worrying about having half eaten jolly ranchers or wet bathing suits in my path: priceless.

9) Not having to eat camp food.
I'll admit, the rest of my list may be high-maintenance...and borderline OCD, but you can get behind this one. One night we ate beans that tasted (not smelled, tasted) like ashes.

10) Being somewhat attached to society.
I missed the blogger. I love to read the posts of my friends each night. I like to check my email several times a day...and post comments on myspace at will.


All in all, camp was great. I had 12 of the most low-maintenance girls in the history of youth ministry. We laughed a ton, slept for 8 hours every night, and had some pretty deep biblical discussions. (One girl's response to "What will you take away from camp?" was "I will take away that Christianity is more than I thought it was. It's more than just believing in God...more than even believing in Jesus. I need to take steps to grow closer to Him and live like Him.") Pretty cool from a 12-year old girl.

Camp Camp, Summer Camp

The craziness begins at 1.

I have 7th grade girls this year, which I love...everything is exciting for them because it's all new. They've never been to this camp before so the freshness of it all is a little overwhelming, but never boring.

I feel a little underprepared from being gone this entire last week, but I know it's going to be great.

I'll try to post while I'm gone.

back...but not for long

so, we just flew in from new york (and boy are my arms tired...boo)

we had the craziest flight. THREE crying babies...the entire time...
craziest part about it...it was all ONE family!

i threw most of my clothes in to the washing machine so that i can throw them back in a bag tomorrow...

we leave for summer camp in the morning. (and boy are my arms tired...what?)

wow. so much fun with so little time in between.

Little Miss Sunshine

Just might be my new favorite movie.
I totally loved it...
See it. Soon.

pretty sweet...

I'm posting this blog from the Apple Store on 5th Avenue in New York City.

Pretty Dang Sweet...mostly because it's 95 degrees outside and they have killer air conditioning in here.

Start Spreading the News...

Oh, now I officially feel like I'm becoming my parents. When I was little and we went to New York, my parents would ALWAYS sing this song on the way to the airport.

But, seriously, I'm leaving today. The shuttle is coming in a few minutes. Our flight leaves Orange County Airport at 7:50ish.

I planned a facial and a manicure/pedicure...I'm really excited to relax...

Then next week is JH camp. Talk about a change of pace!

So I may not be posting...but I'm sure going to try!

I've changed my opinion

I no longer believe that Kathy was the killer of FRIENDS.

Her departure corresponds with the arrival of Emily (with a few episodes in between)...

Emily is the worst.

Just FYI.

Open-ended Letter

Dear Blogger.com,
Here are some things I find frustrating about you:

1) You did not work last night. I tried my hardest to post something...and read my friend's posts...to no avail. Why? Why?

2) When I use your spell check feature, there are still some obvious words you do not recognize. BLOG being one of them. Possibly you should add this to your vocabulary.

3) A few of my friends have written comments on my blog. Some of my posts say 2 comments. Others say 1 comments. Can you please learn to check for subject/nominal agreement?

As bothered as I am with these things, I will still continue to visit faithfully.
Your friend,
Allison

The heat is on. The run is off.

So...it's been decided.
My dad's run across America has been cancelled.
With the explosion and delay in replacing it, there is no way to fund and prep a new RV at this point.

So, what was once our trip to New York to give my dad a nice send-off is now a great relaxing vaction to New York to help my dad cope with the loss of his 50th Birthday dream.

Any requests for souvenirs?

Dudes. I'm famous.

Tonight I was having dinner at Chipotle with my mom and grandparents.
A man came in and was smiling at me (it was actually kinda creepy)...

After he waited in line and got his food, he came back by our table and smiled again. And waved.
I smiled, politely, and continued my conversation.

He bent in to the table and said, "I just want you to know, you are my favorite singer at Saddleback. I think you should be on the program, American Idol."

That's right, I was recognized tonight. I'm famous.

Interesting Fact about Nature

The Bald Eagle is well on its way to being removed from the endangered species list.

There are 7066 known pairs in the US today. (Compared with 4500 pairs in 1995.) *

*Information found in Marie Claire August 2006 issue.

Who says you can't learn anything from a fashion magazine?

90% chance of RV

My dad just came home to tell me that they have a 90% chance of getting an RV tomorrow.
Which means they could leave Thursday...and he would actually run across America.

More info to come...

My dad was supposed to run across America.

Yep. That was the original plan. 50 miles a day for 60 days. New York City to Newport Beach. We are flying to New York on Sunday...so that we could be there when we began his run on the 5th. This was the plan until Friday night at midnight. (So technically, first thing Saturday morning.)

At 12:01am on Saturday, July 22nd, the propane tank keeping the refrigerator refrigerating in the RV that was meant to house my dad on his run exploded, blowing a hole in the roof and the driver's side of the RV.

The fire was so strong that even a team of firemen could not put it out in time to save the RV.

Luckily, my dad's 15 pairs of running shoes, 70 DVDs and the camera crew's equipment was not harmed in the fire. Unfortunately, everything else was ruined. Including the plans they had for the team (with my dad's dog) to leave Saturday at 10am to drive to NYC to meet my dad for his departure.

I am unsure as to what the exact plans are now. I'll update you as I find out. I may just be in for a sweet NY vacation.

Three Buttons is One to Two Too Many

I have these striped shorts that have three buttons. Last night we were at the movies and I was thinking, in a real bathroom emergency I would be in trouble. As cute as these shorts are, I waste a great deal of my day buttoning and unbuttoning the excess of buttons.

My Super SUCKS Girlfriend

Matt & I just came back from seeing this movie.

My opinion: Suck-city 2006. Don't waste your time, or your money.

Honestly. We're talking worse than City of Angels. Worse than Ghostdad.

Seriously. Terrible. Bad.

September 12, 2006

will be the best day of the year.

Here are the reasons why:

It is my friend Katie's birthday...always proves to be a fun par-tay.

Justin Timberlake's album will hit stores...I've been awaiting it's arrival...so much so that it has now been the topic of two blogs
Along with

John Mayer's newest album Continuum...I'm hoping to enjoy a great deal of it before we see him in concert.
And finally,

Smallville Season 5 out on DVD...which has also made two blogs.

On this day, I may make a public appearance at Target and Katie's party...after that I'm staying home to enjoy the other 3 things on the list.

I love the smell of brand new 3-ring binders.

We walked through Target today and I couldn't help but smile when we walked past the school supplies. The "Seasonal" section is now all pens, pencils, markers, folders, etc...things that make most kids scream with the sad reminder that fall is almost here.

I, however, find so much enjoyment in buying school supplies that I actually am a tad remorseful that I will not be attending classes this semester and so will not be needing any new pencil sharpeners or protractors. Oooh! Or a brand new box of 64 Crayola crayons that are all unused with the flatened tips.

So if you see me walking around with a notebook...chuck-full of dividers, college ruled paper, and a small pencil pouch...you know it's because, much like a chubby girl coming home from school to the smell of fresh baked cookies, I just couldn't resist.

Eat it Sarah Jessica Parker

Sarah Jessica Parker can wear high heels for an entire day (or evening) and not let them stop her from enjoying herself.

I have been striving to obtain this same level of comfort in heels. Last night, my friends, I made it.

We went to our friends' wedding last night and I wore white heels. Oh, they did not slow me down. I stood and walked in grass, stood and held a baby while dancing, danced with Courtney Gause (keeping up was a feat of its own).

I am very proud of myself. Sarah, I hope you are proud of me too. You were my inspiration.

Beach Camp #2

So...we're back...safe and sound. With the addition of some sunburns and quite a few rashes, we are all home where we started.

For being a 3-day camp, it sure felt like we were gone for a week. I hope students felt that way too. TONS of fun crammed into those 3-days. Lots of beach time packed in (appropriately enough for being a beach camp), a few delicious meals, and a fun trip to Boomers (where I SMOKED Wendy in Dance, Dance Revolution...pictures to come).

I loved the small camp experience, I felt like I knew 26 of the 31 girls names in the end, and a majority of the guys too...

Really a great time...Well done Mariah.

Beach Camp

How many jobs (beside Lifeguard) involve sitting on a beach for the next 3 days with a little Boomers and Pat and Oscar's in between?

Mine does.

I'll be looking for "blog-ortunities"...but I may just post Friday night.

One person's opinion

This woman wrote an article on "How to write an Interesting Blog".
Would you agree or disagree?

1. Have your own niche but write about other topics as well.
2. Pace Yourself: Don't write too quickly
3. Have Opinions
4. Keep it Short
5. Encourage Participation
6. Mix up Topics
7. Explore New Areas
8. Avail of Your Own Experiences

I would disagree. I think all you need for a good blog are friends who are funnier than you to comment about it.

is it too much to ask?

I am growing increasingly more frustrated with the lack of GOOD customer service.
In the past few days I have been so bummed by employees that I have almost walked out of the store(s)--3 to be exact.
AND I have almost said something to all the dummies involved (but chose to say it to you instead).

I'm sure it's because I'm slightly anal...and I'm also sure that it wouldn't bother very many others.
But why? Why must you have a conversation with your co-worker whilst you are helping me?

I'm ordering a bagel. I'm the only one in the store. Finish helping me and then go back to your conversation.

I'm ordering my Starbucks. Your friend can finish ordering his lunch from you in 2 seconds.

I'm buying a gift card from you. Talk about his girlfriend in 1 minute.


If I were the manager watching this happen, I would kick some tail.

While we're at it, I saw a sign posted at Starbucks on an employee board. Mind you the board is posted in PLAIN SIGHT to all customers standing at the bar to receive their drinks. The sign says, "BE SURE TO PUSH THOSE BANANA FRAPPUCCINOS. WE NEED TO SELL 80 TODAY! OUTSELL THE OTHER STORES!"

Excuse me. I can read. And I don't want a banana mocha frappuccino. All I want is the time I am paying for: 90 seconds? 1 minute? I really don't think I'm asking too much.

Fears

I admit, I am afraid of a lot of things that I should not actually be afraid of...
I am afraid of being attacked, abducted, raped and/or murdered (more than likely in my house, at a gas station, or out front of the McGills).

All of those things are fears of mine...along with being bitten by a black widow spider, having my Achilles tendon cut by the person hiding under my car, and my house catching on fire while I'm in the shower or only in underpants and having to run outside devoid of clothing.

To be honest, I think these are viable fears. I am mocked to no end, by people who call themselves my friends, about being overly afraid of things that will never happen. I think NEVER is a strong word.

The truth is, these things happen all the time...why couldn't they happen to me?

Some say if I truly trusted God I wouldn't be afraid. To which I answer, God allows bad things to happen...so I can trust Him and still expect the unexpected.

I'm not saying that I am not living life because I am paralyzed by my fear...all I'm saying is if there is a sudden ambush or fire, follow me, because I would have been planning my escape route since I walked in the room.

this afternoon

I purchased tickets for Matt and myself to see John Mayer & Sheryl Crow.
Two of my all-time favorites.

If you would like to buy me a present...

I would like subscriptions to these magazines.

Entertainment Weekly
US Weekly
Teen People

Just FYI.

Countries of the World

As a kid, I could memorize anything that was put to music.
Here's how I memorized all of the countries of the world.
Give it a try!

An easy way to make some money

About a year ago, maybe more, a friend of mine called to see if I would come and record a song that he wrote and wanted to pitch to Disney. So I spent about 2 hours learning and recording this song...and went home with a little money in my pocket. Not too shabby.

About a month later I get a call from that same friend telling me that Disney loved the song and I should be getting a call soon from someone in the company. Turns out they were planning to use the songs during the end credits of the Disney Channel movie "Stuck in the Suburbs". They liked my voice and said had they not already promised the song to Anneliese van der Pol, they would have kept my voice as the main vocals. But since she was promised, they were keeping my background vocals. Still pretty dang cool.

So I filled out some paperwork, sent them my vocal resume, etc...and they send me money each time the movie plays on the Disney Channel. It's a great deal. I sang for two or three hours, a year ago, and they pay me every six months. It's not a ton of money, but it still a nice surprise.

Oh, here's the song, in case you want to hear Disney genius. You can not hear my vocals at all, which makes the payment even funnier!

I'm Google-ful.

About 6 months ago, if you had typed Allison Hibbard in to Google, you would have had to sift through a mess of Allison Hibbard star athlete (those of you that know me are able to laugh at the oxymoron that is that statement) to find the two results that are actually me (each an article from Saddleback, one on HSM and one on growing up in Saddleback).


Now if you type Allison Hibbard in to Google, my blog is the first result.

Number one of about 145,000.

Pretty dang sweet.

Public Service Announcements.

NBC has some fake Fake Public Service Announcements from the cast of The Office.

This one, from Pam, is my favorite...
My second favorite: Jim's on black jelly beans.

You're Welcome!

Embarrassment with Austin Carty

So...Austin Carty from Survivor: Exile Island is here at the conference with us this week. (While searching online for a short video to show at the conference we found a Lie Detector Game that told us he was once a Hanes Underwear Model.) He flew in today, went out to dinner with us and came to our evening session. Just thought I'd let you in on what quickly became my MOST EMBARRASSING MOMENT.

Austin walked in to the Tent and I saw him searching for someone who could point him in the right direction. Here was our interaction...
Allison: "Hi! Can I help you?" (In true customer-service form)
Austin: Are you Jana?
Allison: No, I'm Allison, but I can still help you out.
Austin: Oh hey, I'm Austin.
Allison: (interrupting) Oh yeah, I know who you are, I saw your underwear model thing online.

Not "I saw you on Survivor"...not "I heard you were coming to the conference"...
Nope. Here's me: I saw your underwear model thing online.

Yep, I'm stupid.

criticism...how much is too much?

I've always been aware of my tendency to over-criticize others. Recently, I've noticed this more than ever. Our ministry is amazing...This conference has been incredible...I just can't help picking things apart. I turn to the person next to me and say what I'm thinking.

What gets me is that as it's leaving my mouth I'm thinking in my head "There's no need to say this...you're acting as though it was much worse than it really was..." But I continue to tear-down.

It's more out of lack of conversation...or nervousness that others might be thinking it and say it first...preemptive strike...

I want to stop. I do.

Everybody, do the Urkel Dance!

This is one of my favorite TV moments from my childhood.
Just FYI, I can "Do the Urkel".

World Series of Pop Culture

Holy Moly. I can't wait to watch this show. I haven't seen it yet, so I can not give a thumbs up or down. All I know is that when I saw the ad for it in PEOPLE I was, in the words of Stevie Wonder, Overjoyed.

Josh Treece, if they do a TEAM competition, we should join. No one knows more useless crap than the two of us. (Except maybe Alanna).

If you'd like to practice, they have a Pop Culture Challenge Computer Game.

Thank you to PEOPLE magazine for bringing so much joy to my life...having introduced me to the World's Ugliest Dog Competition...and now this.

World's Ugliest Dog Contest

No joke, this is Miss Ellie. She was RUNNER-UP in the World's Ugliest Dog Contest

Every year the Sonoma-Marin County Fair holds The World's Ugliest Dog contest. The thrice crowned champion, Lil' Sam, passed away in 2006 and left the title open for a new champion.

Petaluma, CA...here I come... June 2007: 19th Annual World's Ugliest Dog Competition.

Oh, by the way, here's a picture of the winner:

Student Leadership Conference Session 1

So I know that the top of my blog says it won't be about ministry...but this one is.

Tonight was Session 1 of our SLC. It went really well. A few minor glitches (microphones, changes to the schedule) but other than that, things went great.

Shout out to Stephanie Jameson. I don't know what we'll do when she's not around for a conference. We'll probably have to hire Soeren for a week period. She totally owned. PPT, Mediashout, videos, upload, download, you name it, she can do it. She is beyond amazing.

More tomorrow...Can't wait!

Great Google Search

I have been Googling for the last 25 minutes or so and I just found out some great things:

1) Harry Potter 7 (as yet untitled) is rumored to be on shelves July 7th, 2007. (7th book, 7/7/07)

2) Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix movie will be in cinemas on July 13th, 2007. My Harry Potter widget is now counting down to this date.

3) Season 2 of LOST will be released on DVD September 5th, 2006.

4) Season 5 of Smallville will be released on DVD September 12th, 2006.

5) Justin Timberlake's second album will also be released September 12th, 2006. I'm not sure how I feel about the album title "FutureSex/LoveSounds", but if the album is anything like "Justified" I'll be buying concert tickets.

Student Leadership Conference

It's 10:20pm. I am one of five people in the office still working on the upcoming SL Conference. The sixth left only 25 minutes ago. The "new sixth" is on his way in.

I am running on about four hours sleep and was outside more today than I was all of last week's workdays combined.

I am literally exhausted.

BUT. I could not be more excited for this conference. It really is going to be something amazing. I am totally confident that it will be a week that is simultaneously fun and challenging. Lives will be changed. I can feel it.

If I'm this stoked on it while I'm this tired...I know it's going to be good.

ready for the flack

I just came home from Pirates of the Caribbean.

VERY long...and to be quite honest...not very good.

I will, of course, see the third in hopes that it will uphold true trilogy format (Great #1, So-So #2, Stellar #3).

I'm sure many of you are disappointed with this review, but I am just stating my opinion.

Me and Tom Hanks: M.F.E.O.

I have a strong feeling that Hollywood stars play characters that are remarkably close to their own personas.
**I don't necessarily think that every feature and opinion of the character needs to reflect the actor's, but I do think that generally, they lean toward like-minded, like-tempered roles.**

Take Tom Hanks, for instance. He plays calm, light-hearted, somewhat romantic, generally even-keeled roles. I would imagine that he, in "real life", is similar to his "reel life" counterparts. Please note that my above statement would apply to his role in Philadelphia (he probably does not have AIDS) and his role in Toy Story (1 & 2), (he is not a toy cowboy). However, if you look at the line of characters he plays (Tom Hanks) a majority are down-to-earth, loveable guys.

(For one minute set aside the fact that my favorite movie ever is Sleepless in Seattle...) Judging by the movies he chooses to star in, I think I could be friends with Tom Hanks. (and his wife Rita Wilson) Along these same lines, Reese Witherspoon, Courtney Cox, Matthew McConaughey, Meg Ryan, John Corbett, Luke Wilson, Owen Wilson could also be my friends (no pun intended for Courtney Cox). Oh, and Sarah Jessica Parker.

If my hypothesis proves true, there are some other people who are probably crazy in reality: Kevin Spacey (always plays the bad guy--and plays it VERY well--maybe he's a cuckoo in real life?), Christopher Walken, Anthony Hopkins...I'm sure Josh Treece could name dozens more.

Let's take it one step further. Let's say I'm right in my assumption. So, here are some Hollywood stars that choose to be slutty in movies. Does their life echo these cinematic displays? Amanda Peet (always naked in movies), Jennifer Aniston (I hate to say it, but she's made some slutty choices lately), Sharon Stone (I've never actually seen anything she's been in, but she always looks slutty at awards shows)...

Say what you would like, but I'm sticking to my guns. I think you only choose to portray people like yourself. Since you draw from your own life, it makes things easier if you have something in common with the character. Spacey must think, I would love to create an island out of crystals and kill Superman. Perfect role...

Meg Ryan thinks: I really like kissing bald men and crying when my husband dies...Bingo!

also missing...

I'm a little sad that I put myself in such a tight bubble with the 10 things...
Or I'm sorry I created the list so quickly.
I competely forgot something that is VERY important to me.

Harry Potter



It really should have been #1.
Above Matt Jensen.
And the McGills.
And Starbucks.
But maybe not above People Magazine Crossword Puzzles.

That's how much I love Harry Potter. (Apparently #2).

addendum to previous blog

My good buddy Josh pointed out that I am missing one very important thing on my list of loves...

LOST.

It should have been #1...I can't believe I forgot it.

10 things that I love

1. Chipotle...burrito bowls...with those tasty lime chips.

2. FRIENDS...I care for Seasons 1-4 (the first half) a great deal...in my personal opinion, it goes down hill from there. Right after Kathy. (Sorry Josh Treece, I know you love her...but she was the show's downfall).

3. The McGills...house, family, hang...mostly when it is just me and them and Matt Jensen. I don't really love sharing my McGill time with others.

4. Matt Jensen...he is number 4 because I know that he won't mind...and because these are in no particular order.

5. TiVo...I know that it is all the rage nowadays, but I still love it. In today's world, who has time to waste watching commercials? It amazes me when people still say "Have you seen that commercial where..." No. I haven't.

6. Blogs...I can write about whatever my heart desires and you can't tell me to stop (well, technically you can, but I don't have to listen).

7. Coke Slurpees and Nacho Cheese Doritos...7-11 was one of the first places to take ATM (or at least in my High-School-go-off-campus-for-lunch-world). There are very few other places that can provide such a crave-quenching meal for such a low price.

8. People Magazine Crossword Puzzles...There are very few times in my life that I feel as accomplished or brilliant as when I complete a People Magazine Crossword Puzzle...I can also finish them in a record time. Call Mr. Guinness...give him my name.

9. London...doesn't get much better than that...honestly...

10. Starbucks. I know, 3 of the 10 have to do with food...at least they are delicious items...and they truly are things that I love. You can count on me to steer you in the right direction when it comes to food.