May 19th

28ish

They say it's (almost) your birthday...

I walked into our staff meeting today to find a little pre-birthday treat...

And, since we were learning about and tasting our delicious new 'Summer Beverages', there was a bar--complete with bartender--at our meeting! (Went great with the cookies and cupcakes!)
...oh, and with the chocolates!

I've probably mentioned this a few times before...I really like my job.

...And, a (great) new twist on a (really great) old philosophy.

Earthquake!

OK...we just had an earthquake. I am SO not one to freak out...and, for the first few seconds, I just sat and thought, "oh, we're having an earthquake." For the next few seconds I thought, "oh crap, we're STILL having an earthquake..." But when it kept going, I actually jumped up and moved to a doorway--where for the NEXT FIFTEEN MORE seconds I stood there as I heard wine glasses rattling together, picture frames toppling over, and things falling off my bookshelves! My heart was beating...it seriously didn't seem like it was going to stop...house cracking, things toppling...ok, so I freaked a little!

Wow...wow...hope everyone is alright.
It's been a long time since I remember one like that...

Frisky business

In the canned food aisle of the grocery store this morning, I saw an older lady--about my height--attempting to reach the cans of soup stacked on the top shelf. I didn't want to insult her by offering to help, but, as she reached for the third and then the fourth can, I decided I could not watch any longer--I was sure that at any second she was going to be knocked out by the corn chowder or the tomato bisque...something was going to conk her in the head!

I said, "Excuse me...I am not very much taller than you, but may I help you get those cans?"
She said, "I'd love your help, dear! You may not be any taller, but you look a lot friskier!"

Frisky! YES--FRISKY! I'm telling you, it's my new favorite word.
It is just SO me!

Oh I helped her get those cans. And I've been frisky all afternoon.

London Cravings

My lovely friend Josh, a sweet bloke, is here on holiday from London...He donned his jumper and trainers and arranged a brilliant gathering of his old mates (including his current housemates) to enjoy a pint of warm ale aside bangers and mash and crumpets and biscuits...oh bloody hell...we enjoyed delightful pizza and beer!

Josh with Allison, Jordan and Luke
MIND THE GAP

THE CRAVE STAFF circa 2003
Dana, Jana, me, Josh and Francisco

And Dillon and Oscar...OH SO fun to see these people!

My two favorite London-loving blokes!

Only former Saddleback Staff truly understand the incredible JOY of walking around with a pitcher of beer in your hand!

...that's Ben, one of Josh's housemates. He told us he actually used to LIVE in America--in Kentucky. We told him that Kentucky was not actually America.

With dear friends Tara and Nicole...the evening was a smashing success! These are all people I have known and loved through my days of working in college ministry.

Blimey! Let's not forget amazingly artistic Annie, who is hosting the boys while in America!
Bobby, Quid, Loo, Fishmonger, UNDERGROUND...
it was a wicked night!
Cheers!!

It's (almost) my birthday!

And THIS might be the best birthday card I've ever received!