Leanna's Blog

A Crazy, Intense Week

2010-04-30T16:16:00.000-07:00

I always say one of my favorite weeks of the school year is finals. This may seem strange until you have the college experience yourself. I have found the week before finals to be a week not for the weak or infirm of spirit. Every imaginable project comes due, not mention all the thousands of pages of reading, and of course the infamous reflection papers. The only people I pity more than a college student at this time is a college professor, although its hard to remember this at three in the morning when I'm typing the "Strange Woman" paper. I only have one paper to type, but they have upwards of twenty to grade. Bleh!!!
Some of my unique experiences of the week include losing my keys only to find them again in the trunk lock of my car two days later. Another was my first all-night study session of college. I know you may all realize what a weakling I am now or else excellent student, I'm not sure which, but Senior Worldview Seminar really takes it out of a person. Since at least Wednesday of last week, I have been in high-stress mode over this project that is worth 80% of my grade. I decided on the subject of "The Culture and How It Affects Our Children." Wow! What a loaded subject! I loved the books I found on the subject because they confirmed many of my preconceived ideas of how the culture is affecting our children. It was a powerful reminder to be vigilant in guarding the things we allow to impact our children. Dr. Glick seemed pleased my report, even though given after a sleepless night and the class enjoyed a really good discussion. Thanks to all those other slackers out there who chatted with me on Facebook and kept me from utter depression as I struggled through the wee hours of Tuesday morning!

What Can I Blog about in 10 Minutes before Supper?

2010-04-14T13:48:00.000-07:00

The other day I almost saw my good friend Cesar Perez die.
It was a normal Sunday afternoon at Kid's Club, and on account of the awesome weather we were outside messing around, waiting for the kids to get there. Cheryl, Cesar, and I were throwing the arobie which is basically a frisbee without the middle. They fly really easily which is both cool and not good at the same time. One uncontrolled fling and the arobie will soar into a tree, house roof, etc. Cesar had terrible aim with one throw and landed it right on the church roof. Cheryl really wanted her arobie back and since Cesar was the reason it was up there, she gave him this look that said, "You better get that." Josh Williams who is somewhat of a giant at 6'5" offered to boost him onto the roof. This went pretty smoothly, and Cesar managed to shimmy up about 4 feet to grab the arobie. But by the time he reached it, he realized his hands were on FIRE! The sunny day had the shingles radiating some major heat. He gave the arobie a weak throw and managed to get it stuck in the gutter. He then started to SLIDE down the roof because his hands hurt so bad and the steep angle kept him from being able to get a foothold. It was so scary. Luckily, the gutter stopped him and Josh was able to throw some rags up to protect his hands.
The next step of this exciting event was getting Cesar off the roof in one piece. I suggested getting a truck under him so he could jump. Josh said, "If you jump, man, I'll catch you." Cesar decided to trust his roomie. After scooting as close to the edge as he could, he began to have second thoughts. "How do I jump?!" he yelled worriedly. "Are you sure you can catch me?" "I'm sure! Just jump on the count of three!" Josh said. "One, two, three.... Okay, let's try that again. One, two, three...." Finally after a couple false starts, Cesar worked up the nerve to fling himself off the roof and Josh amazingly was able to catch him with no harm to either of them. It was crazy!!!

"Turning Over a New Leaf"

2009-09-26T19:05:00.000-07:00

That is what I write every time I have no idea what happened to the concept of balancing my checkbook. I just write in my current balance, hoping its correct, and reprimand myself by saying "Turning over a new leaf" to remind myself not to let it happen again. This now applies to blogging. It's been so long. What shall I write about to wow the world with my witticisms? (That was alliterative:)
I'm a senior this year. I think I should have some clear ideas about where I go from here. Instead, I have alot of vague fuzziness. I trust God to lead me, though, and I know He won't let me down. Its kind of like living life on the edge, this Christian walk. Many times when I've most tried to control my life, its gone pretty rottenly. The most successful times of my life have been the decisions that were sorta haphazard. My college choice was based on getting far enough away from home so that I couldn't easily return every weekend and a Christian college so I wouldn't feel like a total weirdo living in the dorm. Looking back, I can see that GBS has been one of the best things ever for me. I've grown so much here spiritually. In about 5 years, I'm gonna look back and be amazed by where all God has taken me. I can't wait!

Dead Kitty:(

2009-03-05T15:59:00.000-08:00

I work off campus for a family as basically a laundress and part-time homework policewoman. My duties also include light housework and babysitting. The newest event of interest in the Weimeyer (identities have been changed to protect privacy:) household is the adoption of a stray cat and her new litter of 6 kittens. Unfortunately, little Sox passed away today much to the chagrin of Gretta and her friend who had planned to adopt the kitten when it was weaned. They took the little corpse to the church to have prayers for it. Gretta's friend then carried the body around all afternoon petting it like a good luck charm. After picking up the girls at the church, I asked them why they wanted to tote a dead kitty around. The concept seemed rather gross to me. Gretta informed me that, "The kitten may not be dead yet." When I gave her a single raised brow 'whatever' look, she said, "You just need to think more positively."
Well, there you have it. Never assume that a kitten which is not breathing is dead. With the power of positive thinking, anything is possible!

Are Those Ducks Real?

2009-01-29T17:22:00.000-08:00

I brag on and on about my cute nephews and here is proof of that fact once again. When I noticed the pictures with the ducks I was like "Wow! That is so cool! How did they keep Jacob (the younger one) from squashing them to death?" I quickly noticed that the little ducks looked pretty much the same in all pictures. Then I realized how preposterous it would be to use real ducks especially around little boys:) I can be a little ditzier (is this really a word) than I like to admit sometimes.

2009-01-24T19:10:00.000-08:00

Watching such a young family take the role of First family is quite intriguing to me for some reason. In some ways I feel like I should be worried about the lack of wrinkles and gray hair evidenced by Barack and Michelle Obama. These characteristics generally signify wisdom, experience, and security. Although I am definitely not at peace with the all the positions our new president holds, I'm still very happy for African American people across our country and what Barack Obama's swearing in signifies to them. These two aspects of Tuesday inauguration make me really curious about what will happen during Obama's term.
I watched some news clips about Mr. and Mrs. Obama's debut as Mr. and Mrs. President at a series of inaugural balls. What interested me most is the fashion statements the First Lady has been making so far. The white ball gown she wore has been a hit all around. One thing I thought was cool was how she kept her plans a secret and then chose to wear the designs of little known American desinger Jason Wu. When asked what labels she often chooses to wear she replied that J. Crew is a favorite of hers. American women love the fact that they can mimic their First lady in affordable fashions. I think it's great that she doesn't think she has to have hoity-toity labels to make her family look good.
I like the novelty of observing this young family including daughters only ages 7 and 10 take the White House. I pray they will do the best things for this country and always remember that there is a sovereign God they will have to answer to for their great responsibility.

10 Things I'm Thankful for Right Now

2009-01-05T17:04:00.000-08:00

1. Christmas gifts especially new clothing (my closet and drawers aren't doing so well)
2. Hot drinks (coffee, tea, and hot chocolate:)
3. A really great college
4. Easy access to the Bible
5. Really really cool friends both at GBS and at home in PA
6. The ability to walk
7. A family that cares about me
8. My VW Jetta that has carried me so many miles
9. My jobs as an RA and part-time housekeeper/babysitter
10. Jean skirts- it doesn't get much more comfortable than that
*the purpose of this post is to remind me to look at the glass as half full as admonished by a good friend, namely Brittney Brander. It feels good- I like it!

In Defense of Snow

2008-11-22T11:49:00.000-08:00

I have certain friends who do not share my passion for snow. Whenever they get all "Bah, humbug," about snow, I feel like a little child who has been told that Santa Claus does not really exist. Who can't enjoy fluffy whiteness falling from the sky and making the city and country look beautiful and clean for at least a little while? The dancing snowflakes hold stories and memories of cups of hot chocolate, families laughing around a fireplace, people whipping down slopes on skis, and many a great scene from book or movie savored from childhood. My mind always travels to the Laura Ingall Wilder series and how Laura and her sisters would do these awesome things in the snow like sledding, sleigh riding, and snowball battles. I wish I had time and enough snow to enjoy these activities myself.
The cool thing about snow is that each snowflake is different. To me that reminds me that I don't have to just savor past wintery memories. Each new winter and snowfall is a fresh chance to try some new memory-making method. I am still hoping for that chance to sing "Jingle Bells" as I'm really riding in a sleigh on some snowy evening. I hope I have convinced at least several people that snow is worth it for the fun and beauty that it provides. Now bring on the SNOW!

Friday's Musings

2008-10-24T10:55:00.000-07:00

The effect of a rainy Friday is not near what the effect of a rainy Monday would be. Sitting here in the DOW office of GBS, I feel peaceful and happy and the rain seems only friendly and comforting. Would it be a Monday, I would feel out of sorts and depressed by such weather. When I got back from a coffee run, I noticed that the birds are singing as well even though the rain is rather cold and uncomfortable. If I were a bird I don't think I would feel that good, but it was definitely cheering to hear them singing. This made me think that I should never ignore chances to reach out and encourage others no matter what the weather of my life may be like at the time. It may mean more than I can ever realize. Others have done that for me, and it is so cool when it comes at a time that you feel totally stressed and downhearted. So go out and be an encourager even in the cold, rainy times:)

Fall! How Beautiful!

2008-10-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

I can resist no longer! I must blog about this delightful thing called fall.
So I was walking down the steps in my GBS approved open heeled shoes, when I tripped and can you believe it, FELL.
Thoughts on this delightful time: OUCH!

The Art of Convincing People

2008-10-11T11:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had the opportunity to watch an funny interchange which turned out to be a valuable learning experience as well. Some friends, namely Sam, Melissa, and Duane invited me to go out for Chinese with them. After we jumped in the car, the usual group decision making process began. "So are we still thinking Chinese?" asked Duane. "Yeah, that will work," says Sam. Mel and I don't much care because we've already eaten. "The only thing I would be interested in is a drink or dessert," says I. "Where would you like to go, Sam?" Duane asks politely. "Well, there's a place in Clifton and that other place over in _____. There pretty authentic" Sam says. "That could work," says Duane. "How about P. F. Chang's?" I pipe up with,"I've never been there before." "Alright, I'm thinking Chang's, plus Leanna's never been there before." We all settle in for the ride, relieved that the decision has been made. My mind has begun to wander, when Duane leans over with a satisfied smile and says, "I decided on P. F. Chang's in chapel."
Moral of the story: Just let people think they have a part in decision making and all will go your way:)

Stuff I've Read Recently

2008-09-02T17:06:00.000-07:00

1. Ninety Minutes in Heaven - This book helped me start looking forward to heaven. As a young person, I could never quite grasp that excitement that older people have when they talk about going "home." It's going to be so wonderful, and this book helped me have a much better picture of the joy and fulfillment that is so tremendously unlike anything we can experience here on earth.
2. Dear Enemy, - A compilation of the correspondences of a young woman, this book records the growth of a pampered debutante who becomes a young woman whose passions are focused on helping orphans she is responsible for. Her fiery Scotch/Irish personality make her better fitted for the job of bringing new life to an orphanage and dealing with problematic individuals who stand in the way of her newfangled ideas than she herself wants to admit. Her most consistent opponent is a doctor whose very scientific ideas about how to deal with the children conflict with Sallie's directly. Hence he is addressed as Dear Enemy, in her letters to him. This amusing book culminates in the laying down of arms between the two young people as they realize their mutual respect and love for each other.
3. Call of the Wild - I get a little emotional when I read about how Buck was mistreated in this book because (firstly) I'm a girl and (secondly) because I really like dogs. Even though London is rather bleak in his books, he is a phenomenal writer who had an uncanny ability to see into the nature of a magnificent creature such as Buck. The whole fight for survival and all that makes for a really interesting read.

Well, I'm taking advantage of the slow start into classes and am preparing to tackle a trilogy by Ted Dekker which should be very exciting!

The Familiar Halls

2008-08-19T16:20:00.000-07:00

My return to God's Bible School and College has been a fairly smooth transition. This has definitely been a blessing from God. I was rather amazed at myself when I realized how happy coming back here made me. As I contemplated this, I began to recognize how this is a place where I've seen really good things happen. I've seen the affects not only in my own life, but in the lives of many of my friends. Sometimes I wonder if I had more spiritualized eyes, if I could see God's presence hovering over this school. Yes, I know this isn't some utopian setting, but miracles happen here.
On the more everyday level, life seems very much the same here while yet having the potential to be profoundly different. I already miss some of my graduated friends, but the change will be that I get to make new ones among this year's freshman. My sister and best friend Cheryl left me for 3rd floor where she is now the R.A. so I'm rather at loose ends about who to bug or borrow clothes from. The cool thing is that now we are once again co-workers, and she has a big, new room with an air conditioner where we can crash.
I think my classes this semester will be very enriching as I navigate my first Dr. Brown class and also take a course in Shakespeare who I love reading. Hermeneutics will teach me how to better study the Bible, and I'm not sure what I'm going to learn in Hymnology but I'm sure it will be good.
Well, picture me holding a glass of some non-alcoholic beverage and giving a toast. "Here's to a great fall semester at God's Bible School and College!"

Trucking with My Pops

2008-07-16T12:53:00.000-07:00

I've been a trucker's daughter for my whole life and know pitifully little about this aspect of our transportation system. My dad got a new job a few years ago where they allow him to take one passenger at a time if permission is asked. With my reduced work hours this summer, I decided this was the time to take advantage of this opportunity. All in all it was a really cool experience and I just wanted to hit the high points of interest.
First, I was fascinated by trucker lingo. Try translating this:
"A bear just pulled over a hammer-down four wheeler at the 205." (What I got from it was that a police officer had pulled over a fast-moving four wheeled vehicle at mile marker 205. It sounds so much cooler the way they say it, though.)
I got to see the St. Louis Arch during the day and also night which was pretty cool. I preferred definitely the nightime view to the daytime one.
Also, I slept so much I think I was getting tired from sleeping. I was able to finish reading 3 books and spent alot of quality time with my cool dad.
It was great spending time with my dad who I don't see a whole lot since he's gone all week long. We had plenty of time to talk and I felt like I definitely got a better view of what his world is like. I'm glad I can relate better to him now.

The President's Motorcade

2008-07-03T16:14:00.000-07:00

When I went to D.C. last Saturday, I was really excited about what I might see. High on my list of things I wanted to see was the Presidential motorcade. I know you can't exactly order up "one Presidential motorcade with lots of Secret Service men and guns, please" so I didn't have my hopes very high. As my friends and I were exiting the Washington Monument information building, I started getting really excited when I noticed police officers jumping out of their cars and blocking off the road. What would they block the road off for other than a motorcade?! I excitedly ran to the edge of the road and whipped out my handy-dandy cell phone to record this cool event. First came two policemen on motorcycles who motioned the people to get back. Next came several several dark SUV's one with windows rolled down and SS guys hanging out the window with guns ready. It was so awesome! There were several police cars with sirens going as they all flashed past. I have no proof that it was the President's motorcade I saw, but it was definitely someone important or else those policemen and SS guys were just out joyriding. It totally made my day!

Speeding Tickets

2008-06-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

I have gotten two speeding tickets in my life for reasons that are obvious to most people who ride with me for a significant distance. This summer I think I've started to analyze why I have this compulsion to speed. I came up with at least two reasons.
The first reason I came up with was that there is little that lifts my spirits as quickly as a drive through the country on a warm summer evening. For the conditions to be right the windows must be down and some good music playing on the radio. Country roads around my house are usually fairly empty and since I drive them often I know them like the back of my hand. I know where the 90 degree turns are and the little humps that make you feel like you left your stomach behind. I hit the turns just as fast as you can safely take them without even thinking. On the straightaways, I quickly give into the temptation to hit 60 mph to have that satisfying feeling of the wind rushing in and blocking all other noises out.
The second reason I came up with is that driving and thus speeding as well is in my blood. My dad has been a truck driver for over 30 years and is very good at his profession. He also has a heavy foot although he tries not to admit to us. I don't know how many tickets he's gotten over the years but I know its quite a few. I have inherited from him the love for driving and traveling. So my claim is that speeding is also genetic.
I'm really trying to work on this problem now that I've somewhat diagnosed my problem. I try to be more deliberate about my driving and not just kick myself onto autopilot which for me tends to set the speeds too high:)

The Wisdom of a 3 Year Old

2008-06-20T17:29:00.000-07:00

My nephew Camron who is 3 years old is quite adventurous. One day as we were eating lunch on the front porch, he started climbing the wrought iron porch post. I told him he looked like a monkey. Touching him on his back just above his rear, I jokingly told him I thought I saw a tail growing.
He looked at me indignantly and said loudly for the neighborhood to hear, "Its not a tail- its a butt!"
I love kids!

Distinctly Summer

2008-06-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Strawberry shortcake
Uninterrupted time to read
Mown grass
Mosquito bites
Exciting amusement parks
Road trips

Diving boards
Air conditioning
Youth camp
Songs of the insects

Summer Life

2008-05-25T13:32:00.000-07:00

Howdy! I have been home in good old PA for a few days now. So far nothing life-changing has occured. I have realized that I have way too much clothing and it is time for a closet purge. I also have contemplated the odds of getting a decent job just for the summer. They do not seem favorable. I will be working at former employer several days a week, but unfortunately the full-time position I was hoping for evaporated since mid-winter break. Bummer! Oh, well, I think God is opening up doors for me to do some things that I've been wanting to do for a long time, including working with my little sister Amy. She is 14 years old and deaf. She has other delays that making learning difficult for her as well. My mom has born the main brunt of taking care of her over the years and I want to enable her to take on some projects she's been wanting to complete. This will be a total switch for me after being a "working girl" for the past 5 summers. My mom is also insisting that learning how to cook better is imperative so this is probably the summer it will happen. I also plan on learning to master the grocery store since I am always amazed at how long it takes me to find all the stuff on a short shopping list. I mean, with all the practice I've had with shopping, I thought it would come naturally. Apparently it doesn't so I set forth to conquer the grocery store this summer.
I just wanted to give a quick update on what my summer is looking like at this point! Please return the favor:)

Sorry for Being so Self-absorbed

2008-05-18T20:42:00.000-07:00

I often struggle with coming up with a fresh topic to blog about. We all know most people on campus are tired of school, had a great camp meeting, and think they have the best summer plans of anyone they know. It disturbs me that I can't think of anything else significant to talk about. Why do the subjects I write about have to be related to me? That caused me to realize how often I think of things only in relation to how they affect me. This bothers me because as a follower of Jesus, I want to make others my focus. I often think of this little song we used to sing in first grade that said, "J-O-Y This must surely be, Jesus first, yourself last, and others in between." Pretty much nails it if you ask me. (I can't believed I just used a fragment but I didn't want to tack that onto the previous sentence which seemed too long already) (Wait... is that a run-on???) Anyway, I'm not sure how I can change this aspect of my life, but I also realize I can't change on my own. God will continue having to work on me to help change my mindset.

So this summer I hope to further develop my mind by reading some more intellectual material. This was Missie's suggestion for a word so to clarify I simply mean not fluffy reading but more of the classics and things that will be helpful to me as a teacher. (Wow! I must say I sound like a dreadfully boring individual) Maybe then I will be able to latch onto the secrets of the universe and mankind and have something awfully exciting to blog about. I thought about politics but that is one baby I am just not ready to tackle. I also hope to get involved in a kid's ministry back home so that would give me other noteworthy items to blog about other than "my boring, meaningless existence" (Missie Lehman). I will endeavor, though, to keep you updated on the most important personal happenings that are of possible interest to my readers.

Happy summer wishes to all!

Why a Massage Would Be So Nice

2008-05-08T17:32:00.000-07:00

1. Today was the first day of finals and my mind is starting to get fuzzzzzyyyy...
2. I can't remeber things anymore like how to spell simple wodrs.
3. After a 6 page exam for some reason my shoulders were a little tight.
4. I have to work tomorrow and I really, really, really don't want to.
5. Because like most people on campus right now, I could use a little "me" time.
6. I think it would be like hitting my inner refresh button.
All that to say this- I am so thankful to God for getting me through the past couple weeks. To be completely honest other than feeling like I've been run over by a Mack truck, life is looking pretty good. I'm going to hear the Pops tomorrow night, and I'm going to King's Island on Saturday. What fun!

Life Is a Whirlwind

2008-05-06T18:16:00.000-07:00

Life is so interesting! We jump from one thing to another
like ping pong balls.
O, look a squirrel!
O, look at the fairies....
Pampers are the best diapers.
Cause Mr. Crater was cracking up...
His arms were flailing, but nobody was singing.
Such are the things we can glean from our fellow human beings.

-This is Leanna and friends signing out from the office.

The Famous GBS Volleyball Semifinals Part II

2008-05-02T18:12:00.000-07:00

We Won!!!!!
Ok so this is slightly belated but still relevant! Just in case you were not informed the Defenders, the dark horse team of the tournament, had a stunning victory at the GBS lock-in Friday April 25, 2008. Enough said. Look for us in the yearbook.

Life is getting to the point where I feel like something has to give. I am ready for a change. I think the change my body, emotions, and will desires is that wonderful thing called home. I NEED MY MOMMY... Just kidding! I really don't go in for that sentimental mush, but I really do miss my mom... and my bedroom and my friends and my shortsleeves among other things. I am afraid, though, that when I get home I will realize what I've lost. Which would be the uniqueness of my second year of college. So many friends are leaving that I refuse to think about it. I will be a mess without Missie, Brenda, Vita, Kristen, Becky, Alicia, Valerie, and Maria. I'm totally gonna be part of the older generation here at GBS, and I'm not sure I'm ready for it. Luckily, I have a very good feeling about the younger generation so I think I will get along with them capitally. If I try really hard I may even be able to blend in. Well, to all who are ready for summer and a change of scenery- this is for you! I will miss everyone here dearly though and I hope everyone keeps me updated on exciting events in their lives.

The Famous GBS Volleyball Semifinals

2008-04-23T10:53:00.000-07:00

The edges of the gym and the balcony level were filled with screaming GBS students last night. Some I'm sure would claim to be fans while others were doing what they do best- just creating a spirit of excitement by yelling raucously at each other, the ref, and the teams playing. Adrenaline was running high on both sides as two well-matched teams duked it out on the court. I know from personal experience that it was the most intense volleyball I have ever played here at GBS. This was not necessarily due to the quailty of the playing but the intensity of the players. Everybody was pulling out all stops, sacrificing elbows and knees for the sake of the team.

During the two semifinal matches last night, there were brilliant saves on both sides. My team's opposition presented a wall-like force against the powerful hits of Bennett and Jesse. On the other hand, however, we would not take losing as an option. After a very close first game that we lost, we handed them a 21-3 victory. What an upset! But I was impressed with the Disciples resiliance as they proceeded to match us point for point in the deciding game. Due to Brian's solid serves we were able to build a 5 point lead which led us to a 15-9 victory. Go Defenders! I am so proud of you!

After my heart stopped beating double rhythm and my face lost its beetlike quality, the reality of what had happened set in. I was in the perfect mood to do something crazy. But all that was available to me was watching the other semifinal match in the gym. This turned out to be the perfect release for my excess adrenaline-induced energy. So I joined the screaming maniacs surrounding the volleyball court. The spirit of excitement was so prevalent nobody noticed how nuts I was acting. The team I was supporting managed to pull out two wins following a loss, and this provided the icing for the cake of the evening.

Now, I'm ready for Friday night. I have this feeling it will be somewhat anticlimatic since the energy and excitement of last night will be somewhat diffused as students will be more spread out and focused on their own agendas for the evening. I think the game will prove to be worth the effort that it took to get there. May the best team win!

Spring

2008-04-08T16:58:00.001-07:00

How in the world do you capture the delicious feelings of watching the world coming back to life after a long, cold winter? It is an infectious blossoming of flowers, human spirits, animals, and insects. Even the most depressed, bogged down, and sleep deprived souls respond to this panacea know as spring. People crave sunshine and gentle breezes as much as the growing flowers and trees. The parks so recently dead both in plant and people life are now filled with the delicate scents of blossoming trees and the footsteps of people trying to walk off their extra winter weight. Somehow there is a release from the grip of fears, old burdens, and fatigue. New resolves are formed, and any task seems surmountable.

In the face of all the projects I have to finish, I am so thankful for this change in weather. God knew I needed this divine motivator to be able to finish out the semester with a smile on my face. Thank-you God!!

Spring Break

2008-04-03T11:32:00.000-07:00

My spring break was much different than the stereotypical spring break activities. It was probably alot more tame than the normal college student's break but no less enjoyable (at least to me). Vita was able to visit my family, and we had a party spending time with her before she leaves us to return to Ukraine. In that aspect it was bitter-sweet because this was just the beginnings of the lasts we will have with her. She was my first friend here at GBS and next year she'll be gone. That pretty much stinks! I hope some day I can go visit her and her soon-to-be husband Steven in Ukraine:)
We put her through pretty much a continual whirl of activity that usually accompanies a trip home. She was able to experience a family get-get-together complete with pumpkin pie and lots of other good food. She met my very cute nephews Camron and Jacob, and they both promptly fell in love with her. We went out for desserts at Damon's with a bunch of my friends to celebrate some birthdays and did some shopping as well.
I think one of the most memorable moments was our unofficial whipped cream battle. I was kindly trying to help her top off her meal with a little dessert by squirting whipped cream straight into her mouth. Apparently, it comes out alot faster than you think and Vita was drowning in whipped cream. She then decided it was my turn and I got whipped cream not only in my mouth but on my shirt, hands, and glasses. I tried to return the goodness to her by flinging it back at her. Don't worry-things fortunately did not get out of control as these things often do. We ended the fight amiably enough and helped each other clean stray cream patches off the walls and floor and me. What fun!
My friends are so awesome. I really treasure the chance to catch up on their lives when I'm back home. My friend Genet had her monumental 21st birthday and my friend Jan turned 22 so of course, celebrations were in order. We planned to go to Coldstone at the mall which was closed for some reason so we decided on Damon's instead. With 9 crazy girls all trying to talk at once, we made quite a commotion. The giant chocolate chip cookie sundae was phenomenal!
Well, anyway enough said for now. I'm hoping I can get enough momentum now to finish out the year.

Something Positive

2008-03-14T17:43:00.000-07:00

Somewhere on my to do list is the reminder to look on the sunny side of life more often. In contrast to my last blog, I want to uplift spirirts and renew hearts with my council. The other week when we had a chapel about the importance of time, I was really convicted about this concept. As much as it may seem like I have a long life ahead of me and plenty of time to get serious about being used of God to help others there is no time like the present to start practicing His love.
I think I often fail to realize how every day is a gift from God to serve Him by serving others. I allow the responsibilities I have to weigh me down and get me grouchy at my to-do-list. Not to be morbid but I could die tomorrow in a tragic car accident. I want my last thoughts on earth to be joyful because I'm going to see my Savior, not remorseful because of all things I failed to do for Him.
The beautiful thing about it is that each day is exciting and rewarding in its own way. If I strive to follow God's will to the best of my ability, my life will be so fulfilling. I am very thankful for that!

Reasons Why I'm Ready for Summer

2008-03-08T19:05:00.000-08:00

1. Alright.... enough with the snow already!
2. I miss flip-flops (in the sense that they can be worn for occasions other than just showers).
3. I think I need to get a tan. I'm starting to look sickly.
4. Homework is no longer fun (not like it was ever really actually fun but I am horrified at the excuses I have lowered myself to to get out of doing it).
5. It would be fun to watch a good movie.
6. The cash supply is perpetually running low while in school.
7. I miss my cat.
8. Totally kidding about the cat.
9. I want to be able to want to eat ice cream to cool down (not just because there are no other desserts available).
10. I love driving with the windows down, the sunroof open, and the tunes cranked. O yeah!

Here Are the Promised Profound Thoughts

2008-02-15T19:46:00.000-08:00

I was babysitting the other day, and I was reminded of the delightful nature of children. But just when you think they couldn't be any cuter- they wind up and kick you in the shins. I love observing their little carnal natures mixed with true sweetness that an adult can never hope to imitate.

I've also been observing lately that some parents, grandparents, or other close relatives seem to think the way to keep a child happy is to shower them with all sorts of expensive gifts. Though this does serve that purpose for at least 5 minutes or so, many of these kids just become more and more demanding. "I'm booorrreeedd!!!" -is a common quote heard from these children. I feel bad for these kids because they learn to depend on things to entertain themselves instead of using their imaginations to have some truly exciting adventures. This is the reason why kids should not be given everything they want.

I have also observed that when kids are always denied what they want it can be just as detrimental. These are often extreme cases where kids are denied even basic needs like love and food because their parents don't care about them. This has far reaching affects on the emotional and mental health of that kid. It breaks my heart to see situations like that. I also think the second part of this quote can be applied to parents who strictly control all the activities of their children. Although this is not nearly as harsh as ignoring them all the time, I think it still is detrimental to a child's development. For one thing some of my fondest memories as a little kid were when my sisters and I were out roaming the neighberhood with our friends and having all sorts of clubs and adventures and bike races. And for another thing how are kids supposed to be able to think for themselves if they are never allowed to? No matter how much parents want to shelter their children from pain, the best way for most people to learn is through experience.

Anyway, just some random thoughts. And I totally can't wait to see my nephews in 3 days!

Interesting Quote

2008-02-13T15:28:00.000-08:00

"Two worse things for a child: 'Always to have their own way or never to have it.'" from The Secret Garden by Francis Hodgson Bernette

Great thoughts on this quote will follow later.

My Reactions to the Frigidness

2008-02-11T19:14:00.000-08:00

When I was at Starbuck's tonight, I began to think of what I could blog about. My mind began to wander and in its ramblings it struck upon the memory of talking about visiting the Carribean.

Before my trip to Starbucks, I was participating in my normal Monday evening activity which is physical science lab (the equivalent of beating my head against a brick wall). Tonight was not as bad as some nights as far as the lab work was concerned, but the temperature of the room was frigid. This was due to the fact that a window was open and could not be closed because it was jammed, frozen, broken... Who knows? (According to Maslow's hierachy of needs, we should not have had lab because it was so cold some of us undoubtedly were unable to learn.) My friend and lab partner Alvin made some comment about his home in Grenada and the fact that I have been there and then....

I am floating on the crystal blue waves of the Carribean Ocean. With my goggles and snorkel in place, I look like the typical tourist, but I don't care because this is totally awesome. I'm pretty sure they could come up with some sort of therapy that consists of just allowing your body to bob up and down in the waves of clear, warm salt water. I am not a person who generally forms very distinct memories of events in my life, but I will never forget that sensation of being cradled by the waves. Wow!! The sand on the beach was white (or at least it looked really white compared to the beaches on the east coast), and my friends and I had this expanse of beach completely to ourselves. We exposed our very pale selves to the genial sun hoping for that perfect tan in only a weeks time. When that got boring, we began doing beach Olympics which included the long jump, cartwheels, and various other activities.

Why am I rambling about this cherished memory? It is my rebellion against this fearsome weather which we are currently experiencing. Even if it feels like 10 below in Cincinnati at least I have a happy place to go in my mind:)

Andvanced Comp

2008-02-05T18:24:00.000-08:00

So I'm in a class this semester called Advanced Composition. Sound ominous? So far it hasn't proven to be too horrible. We are reading various essays which is fine with me since I love reading. What's really nice is the brevity and sometimes levity (tacky, i know:) of the essays amid all the long and boring chapters I have to read for other classes. The only catch is that by the end of this semester, I'm going to have to be able to write a 10 page essay. Ahhhhh! Can you believe it?! We barely even have to write 10 page research papers around here and I'm gonna try and come up with 10 pages of material completely unique with me. Needless to say, I'm a little worried about it.

Mr. Profitt tells us that even though essays appear to be random thoughts just strung together at the author's whim, they are, indeed, carefully crafted to appear this way. Bummer! I was thinking I could do this cool stream of consiciousness thing where I write whatever pops into my head for 10 pages. Apparently there actually has to be a rhyme and reason to my madness. So I'm hoping blogging will help me in this dilemma by helping me to learn to write more casually. What I really need help with though is subject matter. So if anybody has any ideas about what I could try my hand at rambling about- please, please give me ideas. I would forever be greatful and I will give you very generous recognition.
Thanks,
Leanna

Volleyball

2008-01-29T20:16:00.000-08:00

Volleyball, oh volleyball what have you done to me? Tonight there was no magic whatsoever. My team here at GBS played a team that had 3 players while we had 5 players (and we nearly lost). I think I've been playing too much lately cause I could not get my feet unglued from the floor. I felt bad for my team because they had to deal with my many mistakes. Ahh! Unless you think I no longer like volleyball let me clarify. This past week I had a chance to play some competetive girls' volleyball against some visiting high school girls who were here for a guys' basketball tournament. We had two practices this past week which were quite strenuous. The actual game was fairly tight as well. We had game point in the last game when they came back and somehow won. So playing intramurals was sort of anticlimatic for me since it was switching back to a totally different way of playing. In co-ed volleyball, girls naturally take the supportive roles and aren't the ones spiking and blocking. I miss that stuff. But now that I've got that out of my system, I think next week will go better. I have a great team, and I think we have the potential to go far. Rock on Defenders!

Winter Jam

2008-01-27T18:54:00.001-08:00

This is a hot topic at the moment so I'm going to give into the need to relate my exciting experiences as well. Winter Jam was a concert featuring several different Christian bands. I was really pumped up about it cause some of my favorite groups were going to be there. They did not disappoint. I totally loved Mandisa's (former American idol contestant) stage presence and voice. She could totally belt it! Newsong was rather a surprise for me since I wasn't really expecting to like their music. No offense to them or anything, but I thought they looked like a bunch of old men have beens. They were phenomenal! They had some of the best lyrics and voices.
Mercyme deserves their own paragraph cause they were a step above everyone else in my book. When they hit the stage I was like "Yeah! This is what I was waiting for." They sang some songs from their new album that have some really powerful lyrics. Me and my friends (Sam, Mel, and Cheryl) were totally getting into it. Then they sang some of their older songs I was more familiar with and it was fun being able to sing along.
The most unique experience was getting to meet some of the stage hands and lesser known groups when we went back to look for Mel's lost phone. The one had this very cool Australian accent. "Unload all the cardboard boxes first will ya, mate?" Fun:)

Leanna's Plans

2008-01-23T18:19:00.000-08:00

I am just writing down what Leanna said as she contemplated her weekend plans...

"I think it would be cool to yea, be with people that we know. I haven't been to a concert in a long time and its not super expensive. We need to get up there on the stage and like, ya know, bust a few moves. [edit] Tonight. My room."

Disclaimer: This conversation is not all that it seems. Don't worry. She's not gonna try anything at the concert (or so she says)

Tales from the Office

2008-01-17T12:05:00.000-08:00

Ummm *laughter*
"It's gonna be very random. I don't think I read that. Great Expectations? Is that Charles Dickens?" she said as she sat reclining in her office chair with Sophocles in her lap.
*ahem*
*more laughter*
"So Sam, how you doin?...I'm waiting on your response"
He just laughed. She laughed even more.
"I'm not getting much homework done."
"Thanks to...." *ahem* Sam said.

"Well we need a lead pipe, knife, rope and a wrench. Any help?" he asked.

Leanna continued, "I know a really funny dialogue. Also more-so than funny actions. but I do like funny action movies too, I think I'm kind of half and half. Thats movie made me sad though... Hamlet? Freak!"

Leanna: Missy just laughs uproariously.
Missy: That's not funny
Melissa: That's why the laugh was fake.

A Day in the Life of a "New R.A."

2008-01-17T07:08:00.000-08:00

So did you want to be an R.A.*? Did you sit at the R.A.'s table before you became one? Did you ask for the job? How does it feel? Do you like your new job? You should give them points! You do know as an R.A. your gonna lose all your friends. So are you going to change?

These are all comments I have heard within the past 10 days. To be honest I have struggled with my carnal nature when asked these questions. On many occasions I had to bite my tongue and say to myself, "Now be nice be nice Leanna, these people are just curious about your new job." I really wanted to just rattle off some sarcastic response and be completely stupid. Well, when I agreed to be an R.A., it was because I thought it would just be a little sidenote on an otherwise normal semester. So far it has dominated my normal college habits. It's hard for me to handle all that change at once so the past two weeks have been a little strained for me. But God has definitely been good to me by consistently ministering to me through the school-wide revival and services at church.

My opinion of an R.A. was that they were a person put in a position to help keep the dorm from going nuts. I always thought they were pretty cool, and they didn't invade my space to much so we cohabitated very well. So my line of reasoning was something like this when Miss V asked me if I would consider being the 2nd floor R.A. "I like the R.A.s. This job seems like an answer to prayer in the financial area so why not?" I talked to God about it and had this distinct feeling that this opportunity had come along at this point in my life for a specific reason. So I took a big step and accepted the position. Little did I know how much it would alter my image in many peoples' minds.

I guess my answer to the aforementioned questions would be "No, I am not power tripping. I'm not planning on changing except hopefully only to become more mature in my walk with God. I am still the same person and I still feel the same way about all my friends and acquaintances on campus." I wish and hope they will feel the same way about me.
*R.A.= resident assisstant

My Obsession with Dark Chocolate

2008-01-10T12:31:00.000-08:00

I feel like I've just discovered dark chocolate. I have no idea how I survived without it. It is a small piece of heaven for me. I used to be a big fan of milk chocolate. I am now amazed at my ignorance.
Whenever my mom would buy those bags of mixed chocolates, I always ate anything except the dark chocolate. I thought it was too bitter. Well, after I found out dark chocolate was actually slightly more healthy, I decided I should give it another spin. My more mature taste buds were obviously better able to appreciate the sensation, and I am now a dark chocolate fanatic.
As I sit here stuffing my face with some chocolate my aunt gave me for Christmas I am able to comfort myself with the fact that the antioxidants are doing wonders for my health. How nice!!

Christmas Greetings!

2007-12-12T19:30:00.000-08:00

So this is something totally new for me- blogging that is. I am very excited to see what becomes of it. I am very much in the spirit of the holidays this evening since I have just spent the last 4 hours admiring staff and student decorations across the God's Bible School and College campus. Hence the name of my first blog- Christmas greetings. This is a magical time of the year, and I thank God so much for it. You know even though this time of year has become very commercialized, for me as a Christian and for many others I am sure, this time of year causes reflection as well. Amidst the whirlwind of shopping, eating, and visiting family, my mind is still drawn to the reason for the season. (please pardon the cliche) Jesus came as a baby! How cool is that?! Amazing if you ask me.