Super Busy. Super Thankful.

My oh my have I been busy.

If you know me, you know that I love to stay busy and productive. And indeed I have been doing that for quite sometime now.

I am keeping busy with work- working full hours and exhausted at the end of the day. My days off, I intern at a family agency learning new techniques of the welfare system and having fun. I have also recently been given the opportunity to use my talent of planning.... stuff. At church, I have been asked to be on the nominating committee. I have also been asked to coordinate a Christmas program at my church, as well as lead out in classes for the young adult. I still tutor when I can and also manage time to stay active and keep in shape.

I am loving new opportunities and new ways to put time in things that matter and I love that I am feeling  useful! Lately, I have been having this sense of fulfillment with were my life is at the moment. I have been finding out more and more about myself each and everyday and that is something I have been enjoying very much. I feel as though the Lord is preparing me for something that is going to happen soon and I have no idea what it is.... but Im excited. I believe that I am where I need to be..... but for how long? Im not sure. In the midst of all of this, I still wonder, where am I going? Where should I be next? What have I not found out about myself that I havent already?

Notice how all of those questions begin with the word "I"? That's because that is all who I am thinking about at the moment. That is all I have been thinking about for the past year and because of that, I have learned to really focus on my needs and what is important to me. You know how amazing that is? Just a thought.

Life is great. Life is busy. Life is happening. I am excited to see how the Lord can use me in as many ways as He can while I am still around Vegas and I hope He doesn't stop there. I am thankful for Him and his ability guide me in the direction that only HE knows is best for me. During this Thanksgiving season, I would like to thank Him for that. I hope you have a wonderful holiday and let's keep in mind the good things that are happening in our lives. :) Until next time...

Cheers.

I'm listening....

So I talked with family.

Some changes will be taking place soon.

So great to have insight from some people I trust the most.

Keepin busy....

Life has been workin out pretty great for me. For those of you who know me, know that I like to keep busy... good thing? bad thing? Not sure, but it's who I am.

Work has been great. I work as a front desk receptionist for an Orthopedic Surgeon's office and it has been pretty fun. Learning a lot and loving the busy-ness of it all. On my days off, I volunteer at a family agency along with other social workers and learning more about the system and how low income families and individuals seek assistance such as medicaid, welfare, food stamps, etc. I've been learning a lot and everyone there has been so helpful. I am tutoring kids from church a couple times a week which has been great because I get to brush up on my algebra and English grammar rules (which I can't complain about!). I also do my best to stay fit and active and finding time to work out when I find a chance. I also work at a farmer's market/pumpkin patch for 8 hours on Sundays in the sun which has been a lot of fun, but tiring. But hey, we sell donuts and cider so what up!

What can I say, God has been blessing for sure. However, daily, I ask myself (and God), am I doing what I am supposed to be doing? Am I where I need to be? Am I making the best decisions in life right now? SHOULD I be in Vegas? Where am I going to be in 6 months? 8 months? 1 year from now? I am here living at home, working in a field I didn't get a degree in to save up money until I figure out what to do as my next step and can start my actual career as a Social Worker elsewhere.

Because I'm human, asking these questions to myself absolutely freak me out. Where my mind is at right now is working, but having fun. I want to travel, see the world, but I have work the next day at 7 am and have bills to pay! Along with those unwlecomed and dreaded school loans I need to start paying. Freakin a.

All in all, I am a happy woman right now. I just need to know that I am where the Lord wants me and needs me to be. How do I know for sure? I don't yet. But I'm listening and I'm keeping Him involved in my plans. He is molding my plans into what He knows is best for me, and I must say that that thought helps me sleep at night.

That is my life update. Busy, questioning, but happy.You know how I do.

The Life of a Twin

I am a twin. I grew up accustomed to sharing a birthday, clothes, a face, and just about anything you can think of (except DNA since we are fraternal and not identical). We also grew accustomed to when we would go to places together, we get the double take. As in, someone takes a glimpse at us, turns around, and quickly turns around again to make sure they are NOT delusional and that there is in fact two girls that look a lot alike. As well as getting the dumb questions of, "So if your birthday is on March 28, when is your twin's birthday?" or the one that I will never forget, "Do you ever look in the mirror and forget if you are YOU or your sister?" (what an idiot).

This was the life I knew.... until I moved to California for college.

When I was off at college, people knew me as JENN and not "Jessy", "twin", "Jessy's twin", or "I'll-just-guess-who-you-are-since-I-cant-tell-you-guys-apart".

It was just wonderful. I was Jenn. I had an identity. I was an individual.

Annnnnd now I'm back.

My life is now back to having to tell people "YES we are twins now quit looking at us like we have 8 arms." Walking into church every week, it is almost a guarantee that at least 3 people will come up and hug me and greet me. I then have to stop them, "I don't know you. You think I'm my sister. Hi, my name is Jenn." Just the other day, I was at the gym and two random girls were waving at me and I had this confused look on my face. Almost right away I had to explain that I am not Jessy, I am her twin. I'm not a negative person, but it's ANNOYING. And I have no choice but to deal with it. I feel like just announcing to the huge city of Las Vegas, NV-- " Hey, Vegas. There are two of us. We are twins. PLEASE learn to tell us apart"... but I'm not going to hold my breath.

Such is the life of a twin. On the bright side, I have met new people and have received more hugs from people I don't know. Could be worse.... I guess.

Travel Bug

Due to the fact that I am in a point in my life where I am absolutely unattached or have any major obligations in life, I have found myself itching to see more of the world and what it has to offer. I would like to see and experience new things. Nothing drastic, but a little bit. I have never really left the country (just for half a day to Mexico with my family when I was 12) and someday, I do in fact plan on leaving the country to see what is out there. However, before I pick up and "see the world", I really want to go see what this country has before I seek outside the country for adventure.

I was born and raised in Las Vegas, NV, attended college in California for 5 years, and now Im back in Las Vegas. There is still more that I want to see! I understand that it's not the end of the world if I have not traveled, but I sure would like to check out some places. See different lifestyles and cultures and I don't believe that I have to leave the country to do just that.

Here is a list of places I have been wanting to see and become acquainted with:

                                                                       
                                                                     Portland, OR

                                                                      Denver, CO

                                                                          Boston, MA

                                                                     Washington DC

                                                                        Seattle, WA

                                                                              Alaska

                                          New England (Vermont/Connecticut/Maine)

Yes yes. To some of you, you may be thinking, "Oh Jenn, you've never been to these places? Really? Do you live under a rock?" Well my answer is no, but thanks.

I want to travel. I want to see what else is out there. I am in my 20's, single, up for adventure, and curious about life outside of Las Vegas and California. I always hear people saying, "Travel and see the world now while you're young. Now is the time to do that... blah blah blah." I totally get it, but how in the HAY am I supposed to fund these much wanted random trips? Oh, and who would want to come with me? I dont know anybody in these places so who would I stay with? How will I get around? How do people go about this? I'm new to all of this so some input would be appreciated :)

So for now, I'll just keep workin and saving up my hard earned money until I find a way to venture off to new places.

Who's comin with?

Nature Girl

Man I miss this.....

 

There are many things that are difficult about the transition from moving back home from college- especially with the fact that I am absolutely in love with the place that I resided in for the last 4 years. In my 4 years at Pacific Union College, I made one of MANY self discoveries. One huge discovery I made was that I am simply happy when I am in the presence of nature. I miss having easy access to the outdoors and being able to actually ENJOY it. In Las Vegas, access to nature is possible.... except the sort of easy accessible nature in Las Vegas: Rocks, cactus, and palm trees. Sorry, just doesn't cut it for me. I have access to beautiful mountains 45 minutes away. But that's just the thing... 45 minutes away. I am a full time worker with a busy schedule, I can't drive out 45 minutes just for a quick hike in the mountains. AHHH.

I miss nature. I am having withdrawals. Adjusting back to a life that is different than what my life HAS been in the last 4 years is just a part of life. It is apart of growing up. I understand that. But I sure miss my green.

Maybe I should just buy a plant or something.

Self Discovery #13

I don't really like Mediterranean food. Too strong.
No Greek Salad for me or dont take me out to a Greek restaurant. Let's go get a sandwich instead.

Starting Week 3 of My Life in Vegas....

You know what? Life is good right now.

I got a volunteer position at a Family Resource Center here in Las Vegas. I got in contact with someone and they would like me to come in and work with them for a few hours every Tuesday since that is the day I have available. I will be given the opportunities to help families that are in need of some sort of resource in the community. I will be coming in for my first meeting in a few days and they will tell me what they would like me to do. Apart of my volunteering will involve counseling some sort of group of young kids or teens, facilitate in parenting classes, making phone calls, and possible child care? Im not sure, but I am excited to be able to help the community in some way and gain some great experience. This makes me excited.

I am really feeling blessed right now. I am happy to get involved in my church again. This morning, we went to go feed the homeless downtown. Being with those that are less fortunate than myself just for a couple of hours puts life in perspective for me. I believe that we are put on this earth for many reasons. One of those reasons is to show goodness to others.  Why cant I remember that ALL THE TIME?

Life is so unpredictable. I am back at home... and happy. I have a good job that gives me the opportunity to save up money. However, I am making good use of my free time to better prepare me for my next step in life. I pray that my motivation stays consistent.

Life is good.... but I'm missing California.

My Life Lately.

I am no longer in California. I am now back in my hometown, Las Vegas, NV. I was living in California for about a month after I graduated. During that time, I have been working part time for the college in the afternoon and volunteering at the nursing home in the morning and applying for work. I have been looking in countless of websites and sending out resumes. Apparently, no one needs an unexperienced and under qualified social worker.. go figure.

A few weeks ago, I got a job offer at a Knee and Shoulder Institute Clinic here in Las Vegas, NV as a receptionist at this high end clinic. I took the job offer and moved back home. I am working at this clinic and saving up money for the "next step" in my life... which is unknown at this point. I am actually very much enjoying my new job! I am getting to know a lot of people and have been learning a lot, which are two things I very much enjoy.

Moving back home is a little overwhelming. Having my last few years of college and moving my life back into one small room was weird. Crazy enough though, I am feeling good. I have been placing my future in God's hands and the fact that I somehow ended back in Las Vegas, I cant help but to know that I need to be here. I am still aiming to get experience in what I graduated with and knowing that I am doing that while working full time, I pray that I am making the best choice that I can at this point.

So that's that. My current life in a nutshell. Moved back home, working full time at a clinic and saving up, still looking into social work opportunities, and keeping my eye on the prize.

God is good. Life is good. Stay tuned :)

How are you not freaking out?

The majority of my friends either getting engaged or getting married.

Doesn't marriage absolutely freak them out at all? I mean, it's forever. Is that concept only terrifying to me at this point? How do they know it is going to last forever? Aren't they scared?

Craziness.

My first week as a college grad....

So my first week as a college graduate has consisted of:

Sleeping in
Part time work in the afternoon for 3 hours a day (nothing)
Swimming
Spending way to much money on food
Volunteering at a nursing home
Get online, look for jobs, and end up watching a tv show instead


I will be the first one to admit, I have not been my most productive in the last week. I need motivation. I feel like my years of college and my sweat, blood, tears, and hard work has finally finished and I need to take a break. That's deserved right? Can't I get a break? No? Okay...

That's it, I'm brushing up my resume and applying for more jobs this week. I need to get back on my game.
Except wait.... let me finish this show first.

I graduated... now what?

So I graduated college yesterday.... still don't know what's going on.

Graduation weekend was probably the best weekend of my life. It was wonderful being surrounded by fellow grads and family. No greater feeling in the world than the feeling of accomplishment. All with the help of my Jesus. I felt very blessed this weekend. I love that feeling.

So... sweet... I graduated... now what?

I've been applying to a few places and have not heard anything back. Now that I have time, I'm going to keep on truckin and sending out those resumes and filling out those applications. But hey, at least it's not papers and research projects Im working on. I can live with that. Except, wait... I'm unemployed.

Needing Encouragement...

Applying and looking for jobs is depressing.

I am feeling very discouraged.

Finally... Feeling Productive.

I have officially applied to about 4 jobs. I have also looked into numerous websites of agencies I am interested in working for. I looked through the websites of agencies I am interested in, found contact information to individuals that were listed as either human resources representative or the "head" person of an agency and emailed them that I am interested in working for them and sent them my resume.

Finally... I am feeling productive!

At this moment, I have applied for jobs in:

Colorado
Oregon
Washington
Florida

I know the Lord will provide but I am doing my part and I am finally feeling like I am getting somewhere. Here's to prayin and hopin. Graduation is right around the corner and I am still anxious to see what adventures I am to set sail on.

When I find more time, I will continue looking for more. Until then, I will stop and continue on my homework assignments, research paper, and focusing on acutally passing college....

But Mom, I Don't Want to Grow Up....

I popped my head off my pillow this morning half hour earlier than I had to wake up because it hit me... it's almost MAY! Which means, it's almost the month before I graduate! I have not done anything!!!

I have my resume completed. This is the piece of paper that I am going to be giving agencies telling them, "Hi. This is a sheet of paper that tells you exactly why you should hire me and why I am awesome. Please take a chance on me." Because of this, I feel that my resume still needs some fixing up to do- considering this will be the only thing that will inform the given individual (of who may potentially be my boss someday) about who I am and why I am qualified. For this reason, I have not been able to take that leap of faith and send in my resume to some sweet job opprutunites that I have my eye on. Maybe I need to get over myself and send it anyway...

Another thing- I have decided that I would like to start looking for jobs in Oregon and Colorado. These are two states that I have never visited but I feel like I know enough about these places to know that they will fit my personality and interests quite well. I have looked for jobs in these two states and it seems as though they are both looking for Social Workers. Well that's great, isn't it? Except, the other part of my brain is asking, "Jenn, do you really want to move away to a state where you have no family or friends? Are you really ready to pick up and live somewhere new? And on your own?"

I want to go somewhere new. Start a new life and have a fresh new start. However, I feel as though I do not have enough resources (experience, independence, and MONEY) to do so. How do people go about a situation like this? I understand that there is always the option of going back home. I have a wonderful home to go back to with loving parents, sister, and dogs. However, I do not have the desire to move back. Is it a pride thing? I'm not sure. I am eager to start a life of my own, meet new people, make a new network, and finally gain work experience in a field that I enjoy very much.

Problem: I am terrified.

I know how to do school because that is what my life has consisted of for the past 18 years. Changing direction annd transitioning to something completely different is excitingly scary. Apart of me is waiting for my wonderful and merciful Lord to place oppurtunites on my lap and make things easy for me. But, if my God made things easy for me, let's face it, when would my faith be tested? Pretty sure that's not how it works...

I am beginning to feel overwhelmed because not only are these thoughts filling my mind throughout the day, but I am also wrapped up in hours of class a day, 8 hour day internship, work, extra cirricular activites, and making sure I am actually passing my classes so I can graduate. I understand that millions of young people in my position are experiencing exactly what I am right about now. I understand that I need to get over myself and come up with a game plan. I think I know what I should do now. I will be working on finalizing my resume and start sending a few out this weekend. That's right. THIS WEEKEND. Once I start to send a few out and start the application process and praying to my sweet Jesus at the same time, I am hoping that I will be able to get a better clue on what this "growing up" gig is all about.

So for now:
Resume sending, applying, and praying...let the fun begin!

One pair? Au Pair?

At this point in my life, it seems as though I come up with a new and different "game plan" everyday. A few weeks ago, I had an idea of after I graduate (and after my one remainder month of being being in this small awesome town in California to be in my dear friend's wedding), that I pick up and go to Europe, specifically Scotland, and possibly pick up a social service kind of job there for few months then come back to the states and look into getting into grad school for the winter? Is acceptance to grad school even possible for the winter? I have no idea. But hey, it was just an idea I had and I loved it for like 2 days then came up with something new the next day. So at this point, my mind plays little ways and find ideas on what to do with my life for the next year or so.

Today I overheard this girl talking about some sort of nanny-ing job in Europe and my ears perked up. I have heard of this gig before. My friend did that a few years ago in France and if I remember correctly, she loved it? So Iget online, find this website that gives me all the details on this Europe-Nannny-Needing business (except they are called Au Pairs, not nannies). I go on this website and it gives a list of families that are in need of an Au Pair. Each entry (which were like 200 about) had a small bio and information about the family, why they need an Au Pair, the kids ages, and the perks for this gig. TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE it seemed like. A lot of "English speaking-great with kids- nice-and honest" Au Pairs are needed- I think I fit that quite well! My mind began to imagine fun thoughts about me exploring and having adventures in Europe doing this for a few months. Nothing permanent.

This is a fun idea to think about but then again, knowing myself these days, this idea may just leave my thoughts in about 3 days. Im not sure. But that is the fun part about planning my future- I am allowed to have ideas because well... why not? I am constantly putting my future in the Lord's hands and doing with my future what he knows is best for me. Until I know what that is, random searches for oppurtunities on GOOGLE has been my favorite hobby.

Should I nanny? Should I be a missionary? Should I pick up water basket weaving? I have no idea! Im still figuring things out. But for now, Ill practice my French and work on that passport....