Applebees is fun it's true!

Tonight was my last night of server training at good 'ol Applebee's. I've been working there for a bit now as a Hostess, and have spent time working for the kitchen. I'm now officially a server. That is....if I pass my final exam. I really never liked tests, which is partly why I didn't go to grad school. I like learning by doing - not by studying. Tomorrow I will memorize what ingredients create a Perfect Margarita and a Long Island Ice Tea - Top Shelf, of course. Then I take that test so that I can serve my own tables tomorrow night. Please come visit me sometime! I promise you'll get great service. :-) Maybe I'll even give you a free Sunday and sing you the birthday song.

Brand Jesus at Christmas

I finally went to my first Emergent Cohort meeting! I have been waiting three months to be able to go. Today we talked with the author of Brand Jesus. We discussed consumerism and Christianity, particularly relating to Christmas.

I have never thought so much about how my buying choices say something about who I am. Just the way that I dress, even if my clothes were given to me, dictate so much about my personality. The world has created a consumeristic culture, even when donating to charity. Everything about the way we live is related to consumerism. Something to think about when shopping....

Why don't you wear a head covering?

A few weeks ago I went on a spiritual retreat. I needed to get away and have some time, just Jesus and I. I headed out to beautiful Falls Mill for a Sunday, but did not plan very well. I arrived early, around 9:00, to find out that they did not open until 12:30. On to plan B. I started driving and praying that God would show me a place where I could stop and worship Him. I meant a park or rest stop where I would be comfortable in my jeans, sweatshirt, and tennis shoes.

Instead, God sent me to a Mennonite church. Since I'm a member of the Mennonite church, I thought that would be perfect. And it was. Only - this was a traditional Mennonite church. I sat on the women's side, of course, surrounded by women and children with long hair in buns wearing head coverings and simple skirts. The worship service was very simple and traditional. A capela music, only men leading the worship. There were several lessons, which I took notes on. They were just what I needed to hear that day. Also, I showed up on communion day. They only take communion twice a year, it includes public confession and feet washing.

How beautiful to hear individuals stand up and say to the church "I have confessed my sins, should any of my brothers or sisters find something impure with me, I ask that they bring it to my attention. I would like to participate in communion." (that's the best I can remember what was actually said.)

After several reverant prayers and songs, communion, and feet washing, the service ended. Unfortunately, I did not feel that I should stay for the celebration dinner that followed. My fellow believers did offer to make me a plate of food. They were so kind and loving to me, even though I obviously stood out like the terrible burn on my finger right now. I did have the opportunity to explain why I was there, which I'm sure was passed around after I left.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit a Mennonite church, I highly recommend it. I also recommend dressing a little nicer, simpler, than I happened to that day! It was a joyous experience which I am grateful for. Worshiping with other believers and fellow Mennonites was a God-given beginning to my spiritual retreat.

Job Searching

So, I'm in the middle of searching for a "real" job right now. Working at Applebee's as their favorite hostess helps to keep me busy and brings in some money, but I moved here to work with at-risk teens. There aren't many of those at Applebee's, although my coworkers definitely have their issues (don't we all?).

I have sent out only a dozen resumes, and have kind of burnt out the last two weeks. There is a place I want to work for, but I haven't heard back from them yet (and yes, I followed-up). Then there is the place who offered me a job....I should probably pursue that a little more. However, the administrator made it very clear that working there would not be the place for me. Then there's....the third place. A place where I could probably get a job if I chased after it. After visiting the program though, I'm not so sure that it is a program I can support.

Here is where YOU come in. Please leave me a comment and let me know what your opinion is. Should I accept a job because it's a job, and some experience, or should I hold out for something that I can support and be happy doing, even if that doesn't come along quickly?

Moving Woes

I've learned from my friend, Nancy, the benefits of a top-ten list. Here's my first! The top 10 reasons to re-consider moving.

1. Purchasing new auto insurance
2. Changing residency - new Driver's liscense
3. Registering my car in a new state
4. Meeting new people
5. Finding my way around a new city
6. Job search
7. Health insurance
8. Unpacking - or in my case, trying to find what I need that is still in storage
9. Finding a church
10. New budget

It's amazing how much time all of this takes! As a dear friend taught me, just take the list one thing at a time. It will all eventually get done. But if you are considering a move, be prepared to spend lots of time cutting through red tape!

AL/TN update

update 2

My sis in DC

Finally! New Photos!!