"There's no place like home," Dorothy Gale repeats as her mantra while clicking the heels of her red ruby slippers in the 1939 MGM film, The Wizard of Oz.
Yo, Dorothy with the good hair, I feel you.
If you have been around me for more than four seconds or you have followed me on any social media platforms for an extended period of time, you have probably heard me fangirl over anything about Oz. The lovely movie has become a mainstream pop culture phenomenon. I loved reading the 1900 book (originally titled The Wonderful Wizard of Oz) by L. Frank Baum in junior high. I performed in The Wizard of Oz in community theatre where I met many great friends. I fell in love with Wicked's 2003 original Broadway cast recording in high school. And, Wicked has become my absolute favorite musical which I have seen seven times.
I'm so extra when it comes to Oz stuff. I did reports and speeches over the books and musicals while growing up in school, and I directed a straight play adaptation during my stint as Drama Club Director. The most easy gifts for friends to give to me are pieces of Oz memorabilia, and I absolutely love each of them! One of my favorite emojis is the green heart because I use it when tweeting about Wicked and The Wizard of Oz. Further proof of high levels of being an Oz nerd: I did not have to look up any info for this post. Also, the slippers in the original book were silver, not red.
Imagine my joy upon realizing that I hear at least one Oz reference at school each week. (Eek!!! What is this life?? I literally cannot even.)
Last Wednesday, I had a mini-project in class in which my group talked about the dangers of seeing life through Emerald City glasses. The next day, I had a professor trying to sing Popular. It was hilarious to see him impersonating the sparkly character...and he acknowledged that it is Galinda...with a Ga. Back to back Oz references with other topics concerning Broadway musicals = happy KT.
My professor's point and cause for singing Popular was not to fulfill my weekly quota of Wizard of Oz references, though it certainly didn't hurt. We were discussing the power of a transformative story: one that changes over time and evolves as we grow and (hopefully) mature.
Seeing the characters through the tradition lens of The Wizard of Oz changes when experiencing the contemporary musical Wicked. We get to know the reason why Elphaba becomes known as the Wicked Witch of the West. In the same view, the way in which we have read scripture, experienced truth, and understood theology changes while studying in theological school with a shift, an adjustment, a transformation.
Two months into school, I feel like I am in a constant state of change with little to no solid consistency. Things are good most days, but I feel a tug between where I call home. I love my little hometown and this mess of a region that I grew up in and chose to live in for the past few years. I love the people from home dearly and so deeply. On the other hand, I am quickly loving the life of suburbia, of making new friends, and of becoming a new version of me. "There's no place like home," strikes images of Illinois and New Jersey, of a place where I have lived for years and a place where I have lived for months.
I'm certainly in a season of life reconstruction. I have been cautious to do anything too big or too drastic that could happen too quickly as I settle in. While I may never feel settled in New Jersey or anywhere else that life may take me, I have to recognize that I have uncomfortable, unsettled feelings in Illinois as well. I'm living in and leaning into the gray areas, into the questions, into the still uncomfortable and always unsettled parts of life regardless of my physical location.
Where has your yellow brick road taken you lately? What encourages you to lean into the tension and discomfort for this season of life?
Monday, October 16, 2017
Monday, September 25, 2017
Onward through this quest and FAQ
Since moving from southernmost Illinois to suburban New Jersey, I feel like I have a list of frequently asked questions. It's not a fault of those around me - I would rather be asked questions to engage in conversation than be ignored - though there is certainly a repetitive nature.
----------
FAQ #1: Why did you choose Drew?
Answer #1: As I was looking at theological schools in NYC and the surrounding area, Drew came up from either a Google or Wikipedia search. I looked into it and loved the focus on social justice. When I visited the campus in February, I fell in love. The cute, eclectic downtown atmosphere is similar to the downtown area of the small city where I did my undergrad. The campus is known as "The Forest," and my hometown is literally in the middle of a national forest. As cliche as it is, everything felt like home when I got to campus, and it has become my home base for the next few years.
FAQ #2: Why did you move here?
Answer #2: I have loved my travels to NYC in the past, and I knew that if I would move from home, I would want to be near this city. My home of southern Illinois is directly between Nashville, Tennessee and St. Louis, Missouri. I knew I would end up back at home if I moved to one of those locations, so it was really go big or go home. I was already home, so I thought I might as well go big. I've always loved Broadway, and it's great to be this close to superb theatrical experiences.
FAQ #3: What is your experience working with youth?
Answer #3: I have worked in a public school for the past six years in after-school clubs. I started as a volunteer and was later hired as part-time staff in addition to substitute teaching. I loved working with my students in academic and performance-based clubs. I have worked with a youth retreat for the past couple of years. (I leave out the details of all of the work that I have done with Chrysalis because it's too much to fit into a sound bite.) For about a year and a half, I worked with the youth in my church in Illinois as a Sunday school teacher. It's a small church, so I often only had one or two in my class. We got to know each other really well.
FAQ #4: What part of Illinois are you from?
Answer #4: I'm from the very bottom part of the state, closer to Kentucky or Missouri than anything else.
Q: *references being in Chicago once for a trip or going there for college*
A: Oh, I love Chicago. Fun times. I'm a lot further south, though.
Q: So like Carbondale?
A: Even further south, but yea, close enough.
FAQ #5: What's your church background?
Answer #5: I grew up in the Church of the Nazarene as a pastor's kid. For the past five years, I have gone to a church that is now non-denominational. I like the structure of a denomination, but I'm not sure where I align exactly. I'm Wesleyan-ish.
FAQ #6: You're getting an MDiv? What made you want to do that?
Answer #6: I know the normal thing with this degree is to want to preach, but that's really not my thing. I would love to do youth ministry and writing at some point. I have a 20 year plan to run a youth organization and publish a book, but I don't know what the steps are to get there at this point. I want the knowledge from a Master of Divinity to apply that later to what I'm doing.
----------
I have these answers basically down to a science when I'm asked at school, at church events, or in interviews. I really don't mind that people are getting to know me because it's nice to make connections and friends with people in the area, but yesterday I was called out for reciting one of my answers as if I was reading a resume. Haha oops.
One of my professors has stated over the past few weeks that the Old Testament exiles were experiencing much more of a quest than a journey. They didn't know where their paths would end up, but they were going forward anyway. I can relate to this; I'm out of my comfort zone and taking up new challenges. I don't know what's at the end of the road for me. I am on this quest anyway.
I have been reading the book of Matthew lately, and I got to verse 5:48 last night in The Message paraphrase. "Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."
That is the direction toward which I aspire to live. I felt as if I had virtually no identity at the beginning of the month, but as I journey through this quest, I am picking myself back up and God is putting me back together.
Friend.
Reader.
High school girls' mentor.
Observer.
Book launcher.
Family member.
Social media enthusiast.
Student.
Christ-follower.
Onward through this quest.
What quests are you going through at the moment? Do you foresee your ending, or is it open to the mystery of what may be in store?
----------
FAQ #1: Why did you choose Drew?
Answer #1: As I was looking at theological schools in NYC and the surrounding area, Drew came up from either a Google or Wikipedia search. I looked into it and loved the focus on social justice. When I visited the campus in February, I fell in love. The cute, eclectic downtown atmosphere is similar to the downtown area of the small city where I did my undergrad. The campus is known as "The Forest," and my hometown is literally in the middle of a national forest. As cliche as it is, everything felt like home when I got to campus, and it has become my home base for the next few years.
FAQ #2: Why did you move here?
Answer #2: I have loved my travels to NYC in the past, and I knew that if I would move from home, I would want to be near this city. My home of southern Illinois is directly between Nashville, Tennessee and St. Louis, Missouri. I knew I would end up back at home if I moved to one of those locations, so it was really go big or go home. I was already home, so I thought I might as well go big. I've always loved Broadway, and it's great to be this close to superb theatrical experiences.
FAQ #3: What is your experience working with youth?
Answer #3: I have worked in a public school for the past six years in after-school clubs. I started as a volunteer and was later hired as part-time staff in addition to substitute teaching. I loved working with my students in academic and performance-based clubs. I have worked with a youth retreat for the past couple of years. (I leave out the details of all of the work that I have done with Chrysalis because it's too much to fit into a sound bite.) For about a year and a half, I worked with the youth in my church in Illinois as a Sunday school teacher. It's a small church, so I often only had one or two in my class. We got to know each other really well.
FAQ #4: What part of Illinois are you from?
Answer #4: I'm from the very bottom part of the state, closer to Kentucky or Missouri than anything else.
Q: *references being in Chicago once for a trip or going there for college*
A: Oh, I love Chicago. Fun times. I'm a lot further south, though.
Q: So like Carbondale?
A: Even further south, but yea, close enough.
FAQ #5: What's your church background?
Answer #5: I grew up in the Church of the Nazarene as a pastor's kid. For the past five years, I have gone to a church that is now non-denominational. I like the structure of a denomination, but I'm not sure where I align exactly. I'm Wesleyan-ish.
FAQ #6: You're getting an MDiv? What made you want to do that?
Answer #6: I know the normal thing with this degree is to want to preach, but that's really not my thing. I would love to do youth ministry and writing at some point. I have a 20 year plan to run a youth organization and publish a book, but I don't know what the steps are to get there at this point. I want the knowledge from a Master of Divinity to apply that later to what I'm doing.
----------
I have these answers basically down to a science when I'm asked at school, at church events, or in interviews. I really don't mind that people are getting to know me because it's nice to make connections and friends with people in the area, but yesterday I was called out for reciting one of my answers as if I was reading a resume. Haha oops.
One of my professors has stated over the past few weeks that the Old Testament exiles were experiencing much more of a quest than a journey. They didn't know where their paths would end up, but they were going forward anyway. I can relate to this; I'm out of my comfort zone and taking up new challenges. I don't know what's at the end of the road for me. I am on this quest anyway.
I have been reading the book of Matthew lately, and I got to verse 5:48 last night in The Message paraphrase. "Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."
That is the direction toward which I aspire to live. I felt as if I had virtually no identity at the beginning of the month, but as I journey through this quest, I am picking myself back up and God is putting me back together.
Friend.
Reader.
High school girls' mentor.
Observer.
Book launcher.
Family member.
Social media enthusiast.
Student.
Christ-follower.
Onward through this quest.
What quests are you going through at the moment? Do you foresee your ending, or is it open to the mystery of what may be in store?
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Jokes and reading and more jokes and more reading
Today begins week four of classes at seminary. Good news: I no longer feel like vomiting or hyperventilating when I say that I'm in theological school. Bad news: I finish a week of my studies and get a break from reading for about four seconds, and then the next week of classes begins. Good news: I love reading. Bad news: It never ends.
The cycles of unending reading are broken up by classes and chapel services on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays as well as spending time with friends and attending church on the weekends. I have some great professors (and I could write #fangirlyourfriends posts about all of them and those who I don't even have this semester!), and they say some funny things.
Rather than a serious post, here's a collection of funny pull-out quotes from professors:
1) I have a professor who begins each class period with a devotional reflection time. She got to class one day and said, "Does anybody have a Bible in here? It's Jesus school, and I forgot mine." I think only the TA had a Bible because the rest of us pulled out our phones. :)
2) My pastoral formation class is very informal and experience-oriented. We were discussing boundaries, and my professor said, "Sometimes, you have to set up boundaries as a religious leader. I had to change grocery stores because I would get stopped six times in the produce section, and I just wanted my apples!" Humorous in the moment (and boundaries are for real, so it has life applicability, too).
3) One professor was beginning class by saying, "We're going to start by..." when a student's phone GPS randomly turned on and said, "Go to the left." The professor included it in her opening and said, "We could start by going to the left, but I'm already pretty far there, so I'm not sure I could go any further." Her statement caused a good laugh for an early morning before a full day of class.
4) I have a professor who likes to make wordplay jokes. THESE ARE DIRECT WAYS TO KNOW HOW MY BRAIN AND MY HEART FUNCTION. I was literally laughing out loud today in class and had trouble controlling myself because I think he is absolutely hilarious. The joke that caused uncontrollable laughter: "You could find that on Google or Bing...Bing..They pay me to say that. I always mess it up with Bling." Gosh, so funny in the moment. I'm a mess who can't stop laughing at theoretically sponsored search-engine jokes. Bring me to your next comedy stand-up night because you'll have at least one audience member who laughs at the bad jokes. You're welcome.
5) Same prof. Same puns. "You already have the tree and the roots. Now, you're adding truncation. It's not what you take with you on vacation."
6) One last one. Because we're at theo school and we like jokes. "Catalogs are often like the trinity. There are mysteries, but Augustine did not write on them [catalogs]."
You could say I'm having a good time. You could also say that I didn't leave my apartment for 28 hours (after only being gone for half an hour) because I'm reading constantly. Both statements are equally true.
Monday, September 4, 2017
Moving, exploring, and gaining new identities
Once upon a time, there was a 24 year old who decided to move across the country to go to school for something that she never saw herself doing but she is loving the experience thus far.
Hey, what's up, hello (shoutout to my boy, Fetty Wap). That 24 year old is me
A lot went into this move. I know I started thinking about it sometime last summer, I toured the school in February, I was accepted in April, I told immediate family in May, and then I resigned from all of my positions at the end of June before sharing everything via social media on July 2nd. Fast forward to September 4th, and I am writing in my bedroom in my apartment in New Jersey where I have been for two weeks as of tomorrow.
The story of all of the pieces moving together to get here is for another day. I find it necessary to acknowledge that I wouldn't be here without the support of friends and family at home, and I wouldn't have considered the possibility of all of this without the encouragement from the For the Love launch team Facebook group, brought together two and a half years ago. Thanks, J-Hat, but really, thanks, God.
Genuinely, I am loving it. I worried that I wouldn't because I am the worst at change unless I can completely control it. Lol life.
-----
This semester at Drew Theological School, I am taking theological writing and research, introduction to educational ministries, pastoral formation, and a hybrid biblical literature / preaching. I love the readings for educational ministries, everything about my pastoral formation class seems wonderful, and biblical literature is already opening my mind to things I never would have considered before. It's cool.
As my mind is being opened and my knowledge is being deepened, I am encouraged to ask more questions about the text rather than accept the stories as they previously have been presented to me. One professor was speaking about this topic and brought up the parable (aka a Bible word for stories that Jesus told to make a point) of the prodigal son (check out Luke 15:11-32 to read all of it). I am extremely familiar with this story because it is read at every Chrysalis Flight, so I have heard it approximately 80,000 times.
The professor, still, had a new perspective. The story opens with a man and his two sons which should already bring questions to mind. "A man doesn't just get two sons. Where is his wife? His girlfriend? His baby momma?"
So that was hilarious.
-----
Despite my introversion, I think I am doing well at stepping out and making new friends. I am getting over a respiratory infection which has limited my friend time a bit, but I am taking opportunities as they come (and as they balance with all of this reading that I get to do) and being adventurous, courageous, and brave.
The hardest part, really, is the lack of identity. In June, I could have identified myself as so many things. Beta Club Sponsor of the best club in Illinois. Drama Club Director of a small but talented group of kids. Chrysalis Community Lay Director, a pretentious thing for a 20-something to run a non-profit biannual youth camp, but a position that I loved and respected. Sunday school teacher to a tiny group of girls who want to learn more about the Bible, how to help others, and how to achieve their goals in life. Worship band guitar player. Sometimes community theatre participant but frequent theatrical patron. Person surrounded by numerous special friend groups with an always busy schedule from all of her commitments that she loved.
Now, a few less titles: Student seeking a Master of Divinity. New Jersey transplant. Sister, daughter, friend from afar. Jesus follower.
In Luke 22:25-26 MSG, Jesus says, "People in authority like to give themselves fancy titles. It's not going to be that way with you. Let the senior among you become the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant."
And that's hard. When we have done class introductions, mine goes something like this, "Hi, I'm Kirsten, like CURSE-ten. I just moved here from Illinois. I want to do youth ministry / non-profit work and write a book at some point, and I'm happy to be here."
It's all new. It's all happening. And I like it.
Hey, what's up, hello (shoutout to my boy, Fetty Wap). That 24 year old is me
A lot went into this move. I know I started thinking about it sometime last summer, I toured the school in February, I was accepted in April, I told immediate family in May, and then I resigned from all of my positions at the end of June before sharing everything via social media on July 2nd. Fast forward to September 4th, and I am writing in my bedroom in my apartment in New Jersey where I have been for two weeks as of tomorrow.
The story of all of the pieces moving together to get here is for another day. I find it necessary to acknowledge that I wouldn't be here without the support of friends and family at home, and I wouldn't have considered the possibility of all of this without the encouragement from the For the Love launch team Facebook group, brought together two and a half years ago. Thanks, J-Hat, but really, thanks, God.
Genuinely, I am loving it. I worried that I wouldn't because I am the worst at change unless I can completely control it. Lol life.
-----
This semester at Drew Theological School, I am taking theological writing and research, introduction to educational ministries, pastoral formation, and a hybrid biblical literature / preaching. I love the readings for educational ministries, everything about my pastoral formation class seems wonderful, and biblical literature is already opening my mind to things I never would have considered before. It's cool.
As my mind is being opened and my knowledge is being deepened, I am encouraged to ask more questions about the text rather than accept the stories as they previously have been presented to me. One professor was speaking about this topic and brought up the parable (aka a Bible word for stories that Jesus told to make a point) of the prodigal son (check out Luke 15:11-32 to read all of it). I am extremely familiar with this story because it is read at every Chrysalis Flight, so I have heard it approximately 80,000 times.
The professor, still, had a new perspective. The story opens with a man and his two sons which should already bring questions to mind. "A man doesn't just get two sons. Where is his wife? His girlfriend? His baby momma?"
So that was hilarious.
-----
Despite my introversion, I think I am doing well at stepping out and making new friends. I am getting over a respiratory infection which has limited my friend time a bit, but I am taking opportunities as they come (and as they balance with all of this reading that I get to do) and being adventurous, courageous, and brave.
The hardest part, really, is the lack of identity. In June, I could have identified myself as so many things. Beta Club Sponsor of the best club in Illinois. Drama Club Director of a small but talented group of kids. Chrysalis Community Lay Director, a pretentious thing for a 20-something to run a non-profit biannual youth camp, but a position that I loved and respected. Sunday school teacher to a tiny group of girls who want to learn more about the Bible, how to help others, and how to achieve their goals in life. Worship band guitar player. Sometimes community theatre participant but frequent theatrical patron. Person surrounded by numerous special friend groups with an always busy schedule from all of her commitments that she loved.
Now, a few less titles: Student seeking a Master of Divinity. New Jersey transplant. Sister, daughter, friend from afar. Jesus follower.
In Luke 22:25-26 MSG, Jesus says, "People in authority like to give themselves fancy titles. It's not going to be that way with you. Let the senior among you become the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant."
And that's hard. When we have done class introductions, mine goes something like this, "Hi, I'm Kirsten, like CURSE-ten. I just moved here from Illinois. I want to do youth ministry / non-profit work and write a book at some point, and I'm happy to be here."
It's all new. It's all happening. And I like it.
Saturday, January 28, 2017
2016 in Review
For the last few years, I have done a year in review blog post in which I talk about books and movies and music and such that I was really into. I have summarized the year, my thoughts, my successes, and my struggles. I have talked about the previous year's one word hashtag, and I have gotten pumped about the current year's one word hashtag.
In 2016, it was the year of #2016adventure. And while it is true that I took adventure, it was much more a year of bravery and of rest. For the first time in my adult life, I haven't changed jobs in a year. I moved from an apartment alone to a house with a friend in my hometown at the end of January 2016, but I kept the year consistent afterward.
It is nice to take up the moments of rest and of growth and of finding new passions within myself; it is also difficult to be complacent, to be open, to be still. I wish I could say that it was easy to rest in my life, but it's not. I'd much rather be telling people about everything new. It wasn't the year for that.
In 2017, I expect big changes. Also, I expect big things to stay the same. I am terrible at predicting anything, but I am giving away my fear and placing my trust in God, "fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith," (Hebrews 12:2 NASB).
So, here we go, #2017courage. I'm as ready for it as I'll ever be.
Before I get ahead of myself too much, let's wrap up some great things from last year.
Movie of the year: Bad Moms. Oh, dang, I'm not a mom, but I could watch this every day (which is why I bought it on DVD the minute it was released). While there are obviously questionable parts to the movie, I just love how the "bad moms" became comfortable as imperfect leaders. They accepted that they aren't polished, but they want what is right for their kids and for the school. It's a layered movie with a great cast, and I *maybe* saw it in theaters twice because I am obsessed with it.
Animated movie of the year: Ok, so it's a toss up between Zootopia and Moana. I didn't know what to expect with Zootopia, and because I'm not an animal-loving type of person, I assumed I would have to pretend to like it when I watched it. Nope. I loved every second of that justice-loving, truth-seeking little rabbit's life. Also, Moana gets all the heart emojis. I knew I would love the music because it was written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, but I also loved the story. Let's not agree to send pre-teens on a solo adventure across the sea in real life, though I'm totally ok with Moana going to find her way, meet Maui and soften his arrogant heart, and personifying the ocean. Such a cool idea. Mad props to the crazy grandma because I think that's me in 50 years.
In 2017, I need to start listing tv shows that I watch. I know I got through Gilmore Girls (love!), 30 Rock (funny but not always attention-capturing), Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life (love but confusing at times...and the ending...whoa), and of course Glee (because it's Glee).
Musical theater album of the year: Umm, I don't think I bought one. Seriously. All year. Because I listen to Hamilton every.single.day. I'm still drinking the Kool-Aid on that. #Hamilobsessedwitheverything
Professional musical theatre performances I saw this year: Wicked (6th time), Beauty and the Beast, If / Then (2nd time), and If / Then (3rd time). The first three shows were at the Fabulous Fox Theatre in St. Louis, and the final show was at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in Nashville. I am limiting myself to only seeing Wicked once per year, so it was really sad that I couldn't justify going to see the show at distant cities over the summer because I had already watched my favorite musical of all time on January 2nd. After seeing If / Then on Broadway in the summer of 2014, it was so cool to see the visual changes to the show while on tour. I had not intended to see If / Then in Nashville until I found out that LaChanze, part of the original Broadway cast, was rejoining the tour for that stop, so *of course* I had to go.
I saw some really great local theatre as well this year. Two of my favorites included Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Children of Eden. Both shows were performed at a local university, and I am wondering who is obsessed with the Old Testament in the musical theatre department. Regardless, I loved both musicals that are new to me.
In 2015, I really neglected traveling, so I was intentional about taking as many trips as possible. As always, I went to Springfield, IL in March for Beta Club state convention with my students. In May, I went to Ft. Walton Beach, FL for a weekend with my family. I came back before the rest of the family, and driving back alone was brutal, though I felt extremely accomplished (and tired) upon arrival at home. I traveled with my students in June to Beta Club national convention in New Orleans, LA. It was neat to get to experience such a different culture within our country with some phenomenal students. In September / October, I traveled with a friend to Texas. I had never visited the state, but I put it on my list of things to accomplish in 2016. We went to Dallas for the Belong Tour, and I met some of my friends who I had made from non-fiction book launching. Then, we went to Austin where we accidentally ate Chicago-style pizza (because we couldn't find the bbq place I was looking for and got frustrated) and then worshipped with Austin New Church which was started by some of my favorite authors, Jen and Brandon Hatmaker. Most of my trips were really short, but each one packs great memories.
In 2016, I vowed not to read any fiction books. It was such a change after loving fiction and exclusively reading it until a few years ago to now cutting myself off from it intentionally, thought I didn't really miss it. I read some fiction when I helped my sister with homework, and I considered reading a few Shakespearean plays, but I mainly stuck with non-fiction, and it was awesome.
Narrowing down my favorite books I read in 2016 may be the most difficult part of my day, and I'm ok with that. I could talk about books all day, er'ry day (throwback to 2009 me for existing).
In the non-Christian non-fiction genre, I think #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso was my favorite. I haven't worked at an art gallery just for the health insurance (though it's not a bad idea...) and I won't be building a fashion empire like Nasty Gal, but I love her desire to stick with her creative skills while also balancing her administrative capabilities and responsibilities, something for which I strive to find balance. I also liked Orange is the New Black by Piper Kerman. I know it's typical #litnerd of me to say that I like the book better than the tv show, but it's true. While I did enjoy the first season of OITNB, the book is a much more honest portrayal of Piper's real experiences in prison. The book opened my eyes to the difficulties of the prison system (but Netflix's documentary, 13th, is much more in depth about this).
In the Christian non-fiction genre, I have picked a few books, though I could go on and on about the great things I read. I did a lot of launch teams (basically I got a free book in exchange for writing an honest review and doing promotions) in 2015 and the start of 2016, and I slowed down the second half of the year. I was leaning into my rest and enjoying the words rather than forcing myself to read faster so I could get content out quicker.
Honorable mention: Create vs. Copy by Ken Wytsma (launch team). I love how Ken write that we are all meant to be creative because God created us. It was such a profound idea at the time of reading it, and it put words to the thoughts I had.
Third place: Giddy Up, Eunice by Sophie Hudson (launch team). Sadly, I didn't know much about Sophie before I was chosen for this team, but I'm so glad I get to know her now. I love her wisdom, her humor, her kindness, and her love for Christ and for others. Sophie writes about the power of multi-generational friendships which is a big part of my life, and I deeply connected with the parallels of biblical examples in the book. Also, my roommate created an alternate title for the book (you would have to ask her what it is), and my mom and sister asked if the book is about horses. Lol no.
Second place: Let's All Be Brave by Annie F. Downs. This book came out a few years ago, but I just got my hands on it this past year. I was hoping to find some answers and commonalities in the book about bravery since my adventure to bravery year was going so strong, and I got more than I asked for. God affirmed some ideas I had through Annie's stories about following where Jesus leads her, whether it is expected and desired or completely unknown. I'm still learning what this means in my life, and I'm thankful that Annie was willing to share her experiences.
First place: Doing Good is Simple by Chris Marlow (launch team). I have been familiar with the work of Help One Now (a non-profit which Chris started) through the work of Jen and Brandon Hatmaker, Sarah Bessey, Jamie Ivey, and others. I loved reading where Chris came from and what inspired the start of HON. As one who has friends who have all gone on typical and atypical mission trips and learned their good and bad things from afar, I just feel like Chris gets it. I see the work of HON to empower sustainable projects to support families staying together, and it makes sense to me. Help One Now seems to help others so well, and I try to model that in my life.
That was it for movies and music and books, 2016. You exceeded expectations in some areas, and you failed in others; I think that's ok. I took risks, I sought wisdom, I opened myself to vulnerability and emotions, and I took adventures. I only hope I can do the same and more through #2017courage.
"Be strong. Be courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified, for the Lord your God goes with you. he will never leave you or forsake you." -Deuteronomy 31:6
In 2016, it was the year of #2016adventure. And while it is true that I took adventure, it was much more a year of bravery and of rest. For the first time in my adult life, I haven't changed jobs in a year. I moved from an apartment alone to a house with a friend in my hometown at the end of January 2016, but I kept the year consistent afterward.
It is nice to take up the moments of rest and of growth and of finding new passions within myself; it is also difficult to be complacent, to be open, to be still. I wish I could say that it was easy to rest in my life, but it's not. I'd much rather be telling people about everything new. It wasn't the year for that.
In 2017, I expect big changes. Also, I expect big things to stay the same. I am terrible at predicting anything, but I am giving away my fear and placing my trust in God, "fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith," (Hebrews 12:2 NASB).
So, here we go, #2017courage. I'm as ready for it as I'll ever be.
Before I get ahead of myself too much, let's wrap up some great things from last year.
Movie of the year: Bad Moms. Oh, dang, I'm not a mom, but I could watch this every day (which is why I bought it on DVD the minute it was released). While there are obviously questionable parts to the movie, I just love how the "bad moms" became comfortable as imperfect leaders. They accepted that they aren't polished, but they want what is right for their kids and for the school. It's a layered movie with a great cast, and I *maybe* saw it in theaters twice because I am obsessed with it.
Animated movie of the year: Ok, so it's a toss up between Zootopia and Moana. I didn't know what to expect with Zootopia, and because I'm not an animal-loving type of person, I assumed I would have to pretend to like it when I watched it. Nope. I loved every second of that justice-loving, truth-seeking little rabbit's life. Also, Moana gets all the heart emojis. I knew I would love the music because it was written by Lin-Manuel Miranda, but I also loved the story. Let's not agree to send pre-teens on a solo adventure across the sea in real life, though I'm totally ok with Moana going to find her way, meet Maui and soften his arrogant heart, and personifying the ocean. Such a cool idea. Mad props to the crazy grandma because I think that's me in 50 years.
In 2017, I need to start listing tv shows that I watch. I know I got through Gilmore Girls (love!), 30 Rock (funny but not always attention-capturing), Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life (love but confusing at times...and the ending...whoa), and of course Glee (because it's Glee).
Musical theater album of the year: Umm, I don't think I bought one. Seriously. All year. Because I listen to Hamilton every.single.day. I'm still drinking the Kool-Aid on that. #Hamilobsessedwitheverything
Professional musical theatre performances I saw this year: Wicked (6th time), Beauty and the Beast, If / Then (2nd time), and If / Then (3rd time). The first three shows were at the Fabulous Fox Theatre in St. Louis, and the final show was at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center in Nashville. I am limiting myself to only seeing Wicked once per year, so it was really sad that I couldn't justify going to see the show at distant cities over the summer because I had already watched my favorite musical of all time on January 2nd. After seeing If / Then on Broadway in the summer of 2014, it was so cool to see the visual changes to the show while on tour. I had not intended to see If / Then in Nashville until I found out that LaChanze, part of the original Broadway cast, was rejoining the tour for that stop, so *of course* I had to go.
I saw some really great local theatre as well this year. Two of my favorites included Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Children of Eden. Both shows were performed at a local university, and I am wondering who is obsessed with the Old Testament in the musical theatre department. Regardless, I loved both musicals that are new to me.
In 2015, I really neglected traveling, so I was intentional about taking as many trips as possible. As always, I went to Springfield, IL in March for Beta Club state convention with my students. In May, I went to Ft. Walton Beach, FL for a weekend with my family. I came back before the rest of the family, and driving back alone was brutal, though I felt extremely accomplished (and tired) upon arrival at home. I traveled with my students in June to Beta Club national convention in New Orleans, LA. It was neat to get to experience such a different culture within our country with some phenomenal students. In September / October, I traveled with a friend to Texas. I had never visited the state, but I put it on my list of things to accomplish in 2016. We went to Dallas for the Belong Tour, and I met some of my friends who I had made from non-fiction book launching. Then, we went to Austin where we accidentally ate Chicago-style pizza (because we couldn't find the bbq place I was looking for and got frustrated) and then worshipped with Austin New Church which was started by some of my favorite authors, Jen and Brandon Hatmaker. Most of my trips were really short, but each one packs great memories.
In 2016, I vowed not to read any fiction books. It was such a change after loving fiction and exclusively reading it until a few years ago to now cutting myself off from it intentionally, thought I didn't really miss it. I read some fiction when I helped my sister with homework, and I considered reading a few Shakespearean plays, but I mainly stuck with non-fiction, and it was awesome.
Narrowing down my favorite books I read in 2016 may be the most difficult part of my day, and I'm ok with that. I could talk about books all day, er'ry day (throwback to 2009 me for existing).
In the non-Christian non-fiction genre, I think #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso was my favorite. I haven't worked at an art gallery just for the health insurance (though it's not a bad idea...) and I won't be building a fashion empire like Nasty Gal, but I love her desire to stick with her creative skills while also balancing her administrative capabilities and responsibilities, something for which I strive to find balance. I also liked Orange is the New Black by Piper Kerman. I know it's typical #litnerd of me to say that I like the book better than the tv show, but it's true. While I did enjoy the first season of OITNB, the book is a much more honest portrayal of Piper's real experiences in prison. The book opened my eyes to the difficulties of the prison system (but Netflix's documentary, 13th, is much more in depth about this).
In the Christian non-fiction genre, I have picked a few books, though I could go on and on about the great things I read. I did a lot of launch teams (basically I got a free book in exchange for writing an honest review and doing promotions) in 2015 and the start of 2016, and I slowed down the second half of the year. I was leaning into my rest and enjoying the words rather than forcing myself to read faster so I could get content out quicker.
Honorable mention: Create vs. Copy by Ken Wytsma (launch team). I love how Ken write that we are all meant to be creative because God created us. It was such a profound idea at the time of reading it, and it put words to the thoughts I had.
Third place: Giddy Up, Eunice by Sophie Hudson (launch team). Sadly, I didn't know much about Sophie before I was chosen for this team, but I'm so glad I get to know her now. I love her wisdom, her humor, her kindness, and her love for Christ and for others. Sophie writes about the power of multi-generational friendships which is a big part of my life, and I deeply connected with the parallels of biblical examples in the book. Also, my roommate created an alternate title for the book (you would have to ask her what it is), and my mom and sister asked if the book is about horses. Lol no.
Second place: Let's All Be Brave by Annie F. Downs. This book came out a few years ago, but I just got my hands on it this past year. I was hoping to find some answers and commonalities in the book about bravery since my adventure to bravery year was going so strong, and I got more than I asked for. God affirmed some ideas I had through Annie's stories about following where Jesus leads her, whether it is expected and desired or completely unknown. I'm still learning what this means in my life, and I'm thankful that Annie was willing to share her experiences.
First place: Doing Good is Simple by Chris Marlow (launch team). I have been familiar with the work of Help One Now (a non-profit which Chris started) through the work of Jen and Brandon Hatmaker, Sarah Bessey, Jamie Ivey, and others. I loved reading where Chris came from and what inspired the start of HON. As one who has friends who have all gone on typical and atypical mission trips and learned their good and bad things from afar, I just feel like Chris gets it. I see the work of HON to empower sustainable projects to support families staying together, and it makes sense to me. Help One Now seems to help others so well, and I try to model that in my life.
That was it for movies and music and books, 2016. You exceeded expectations in some areas, and you failed in others; I think that's ok. I took risks, I sought wisdom, I opened myself to vulnerability and emotions, and I took adventures. I only hope I can do the same and more through #2017courage.
"Be strong. Be courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified, for the Lord your God goes with you. he will never leave you or forsake you." -Deuteronomy 31:6
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)