"This moment contains all moments."  ~C.S. Lewis

According to the 2011 American Time Use Study by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Americans (15 and older) spend an average of 2.8 hours per day watching television.


Let's break that down a bit. We, as Americans, watch TV:

• 19.6 hours per week
• 1,019.2 hours per year

This is the equivalent of 42 days per year friends! And what's most disturbing of all, is that this does not consider the time we waste playing video games, on our smart phones, on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, mindless internet browsing, etc.

Let me admit, I'm just as guilty as the next person out there. I wonder how many hours, or days I've wasted soaking up pure nonsense. How many moments have I missed? How many conversations have passed me by? How many memories have failed to be made?

I'm currently walking through a workbook by Michael Hyatt. Hyatt tells a story, both in his book and on his blog, of CEO Eugene O'Kelly.

O'Kelly was a typical CEO. He worked many hours, was driven, goal oriented and it sounded like he struggled finding a work-life balance. At the age of 53, O'Kelly was diagnosed with terminal cancer. He chose to make his relationships a top priority in the final months of his life. He wanted peace and closure. He wanted "perfect moments."

"According to O’Kelly, a perfect moment is an experience with others when time stands still. It is a time full of the present, when the past is left behind and the future is set aside. It is a special time of focused attention and heightened awareness. Interruptions and distractions are consciously excluded. Cell phones are off. Hearts are wide open. All that matters is this moment—the people I am with and the conversation we are having now." {link to full article below}

What are the "perfect moments" we've missed in our lives because we are too busy or distracted?

Even so, we've all had "perfect moments." We just might have to work harder to recall them, or to even realize them as "perfect moments." Maybe it's a wedding, a birth of a child, a game winning goal, or a recollection of a simple Sunday afternoon at home.

What are some "perfect moments" you've witnessed in your life? (I'd love to hear from you below!)
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My Perfect Moment(s)

#1. I am beyond blessed to say that I am still best friends with my childhood best friend. Granted our definition of "best" has changed throughout the years. We don't talk every day, or every week. But when we do find a moment amidst the craziness, we pick up exactly where we left off. There's a confident sense of peace now. Knowing that we'll be there for each other, no matter what. There is no fear of being "replaced" and that even though we are 900 miles apart we are only a plane ride away.

As I was visiting her this past Fall we were having a "girls night in" after a busy day of shopping. We were curled up on each end of her couch, cozy under our blankets. I'm not sure what we were talking about over our glasses of wine. It doesn't matter actually. I'll admit I was startled a bit when she draped her legs atop of mine—it's something I don't do as an adult...just drape my legs over a friend. But after a moment, I smiled, realizing the beauty and the richness of the moment. 

I was taken back to our childhood, and reminded of the depth and breadth of our relationship. The memories of late night conversations. The sleepovers. The movie nights. The special moments only childhood playmates share. And I realized, although we are in our 30's now, deep down we are still those 7-year-old girls giggling in our sleeping bags so many years ago.


#2. A few weeks ago after an afternoon of sledding, I had to coax our 6-year-old nephew off of the hill. It was time to go ice skating. As we were trudging up the hill, dragging his sled behind him he breathlessly said, "Aunt Jenn, I'm so exhausted I just can't go ice skating today." I looked down and responded with agreement. 

He asked if I would carry his sled. Who could say "no" to those sweet brown eyes looking up at me? Moments passed in silence as we made our trek back up the hill. Then with excitement in his voice he said, "I have the perfect idea of what we could do instead!"

"What?" I replied.

"Let's go to Hawaii and go to a day spa for a massage." 

"That's perfect! When is our flight?"

He responded, "Whenever we want...I have my own private jet!"

We both giggled as we approached the top of the hill, knowing how silly our little dream was and that we had a plane to catch.

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You see, these "perfect moments" are not grand. They are moments when time stands still. Where nothing else matters. Just that moment.

They are moments that we will miss if we are behind computer screens, iPhones, iPads, or zoned out in front of Television sets. So let's break free of technology. Let's not wait until the end of our lives to realize what we've missed. Let's make more "perfect moments" today!


Much love dear ones,
~JAE






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Source of inspiration for this post was an article written by Michael Hyatt, a New York Times best selling author, former CEO of Thomas Nelson and an expert on leadership, publishing, productivity and social media. 

"Every day you should reach out and touch someone.  People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back."  ~Maya Angelou

As I sit here reflecting on my over indulgences of the Christmas weekend; the great memories made, the yummy food, the laughs, the beautiful sites of San Antonio and the anticipation of celebrating this great holiday again with our other family—I see how blessed we are!

At the same time I wonder how many others spend the Holidays alone. Or even if they have their small immediate family, they are still so far from their own parents and siblings.

Without a house, or apartment, stuffed to the brim with family. Without smiling faces across the table. Without a kitchen filled with too many territorial women. Without laughter. Or the small bickering. Without friendly competition over Dominoes or Settlers of Catan. Without couches draped with men "watching" football–or napping. Without little cousins thundering through the house tracking mud and giggles as they pass through each room. Without the Christmas carols. Or candlelit songs. Without someone to "just be" with.

How many of us take all of this for granted? 

How many of us see the loneliness around us?

Who have you reached out to this Holiday Season?

Who have you invited into your home?

It is so easy to get distracted by our to-do lists. Our own families. Our own plans. To ignore the loneliness and misery around us. To focus on our own little worlds. 

Please take a moment over the next few days to observe those whom you come in contact with. A coworker. A friend. An acquaintance. Maybe you'll be at an airport, or the grocery store, or the mall, or maybe walking a busy street, or sitting at a street light. And you'll notice someone without that sparkle in their eye. Maybe all you'll need to do is smile and wave. Say "Merry Christmas" or give them a hug.

Making a difference in someones life does not take grandiose gestures. It is truly the small things. It's the conversation over a cup of coffee. A dinner invitation. A night of fun over board games. Laughter over funny stories shared over cocktails. A hug. It's a smile.

Family is not a definition formed by blood. It is what we choose to make it. 

Choose to spread the JOY dear friends!

Much love and blessings to you and yours,
~JAE

"Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares."   Hebrews 13:2 (ESV)

“The greatest wealth is to live content with little.”  ~Plato

I’ve just started a great adventure into my fourth decade of life. I’m in a season of transition. I’m waiting, patiently—or trying to. Waiting to see what’s around the corner. Waiting, with much anticipation. 

I’ve always struggled with “the greener grass syndrome,” where the next thing always looks better, bigger or brighter. I couldn’t wait to grow up. I couldn’t wait to graduate from high school. I couldn’t wait for Christmas or Summer break. I couldn’t wait for my first, second, or third job. Always looking at what was ahead.

How many days did I miss because I was too distracted thinking about tomorrow?

How often have we thought:

“If only I lose 5 more pounds”

“If only I could afford those Manolo Blahnik’s or Coach purse”

“If only I could buy an extravagant house or car”

“If only I could travel more”

“If only I had a thriving career or a higher paid job”

“If only I were prettier”

“If only I were smarter”

“If only I had more friends”

“If only I were in a relationship”

“If only I had children”

"...I would be happier."

Truth is—we are never happier. Our “if only” statements change. We find something “better” to crave.

As we approach the holiday season, a time where we we tend to focus on material wishes and desires. I urge you to take a walk with me this season. To BE content. 

I know it will be a daily challenge, and I don’t know about you, but I just can’t waste any more todays looking forward to, or worrying about, tomorrow.

Blessings and love my dear ones!

~JennMarie

"No matter how busy you are, you must take time to make the other 

person feel important."  ~Mary Kay Ash

I came across this video on CBS Morning News a few months ago. 

After viewing the clip and reading Matthew Specktor's article, I thought about the last time I'd taken a moment to write a friend a handwritten letter. It was probably years ago, if I don't include my pathetic excuse at writing Christmas cards.

How great is it to run out to the mailbox and find, in the midst of all the junk mail, an envelope with your name handwritten in the recipient field? I will admit, most of the time I don't even make it back into the house before I tear open the envelope to see what it contains. The anticipation of what's inside almost kills me.

Since then I've sent a couple notes. Granted they were "thank-you" cards, but that's a start, right?

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I turned 30 this summer. I know I am blessed beyond measure that I've been here 30 years, but still that number was not the easiest to deal with. However something happened that made my transition into the next decade a little easier. 30 days before my birthday I received a little note in the mail. It wasn't a flashy card or on beautiful stationary, yet the words on it soaked into my soul. The words were just this, 



"Dear Jennifer,
As you prepare to enter in to a new decade of life- I want to share 30 reasons I love you in the next 30 days..."


Each day I'd hurry home from work to find a letter or two from my dear friend. Some made me giggle, remembering our silliness. Some made me cry, yearning to be with a dear friend so far away. Yet, each day my mailbox brought me a sense of excitement, joy, encouragement and love. 

My friend did something so simple, in the sense how our culture views gifts today. But to me, it is one of the best gifts I ever received. I will forever cherish those 30 letters, handwritten with love, tears and prayers. 

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"There is more to life than increasing its speed."  ~Mahatma Gandhi

Why don't we take the time to write anymore--even an email? Sometimes the extent of our relationships are the facades we see on Facebook. My life's great. My kid's awesome. I have the BEST marriage. Look at my great vacation pictures. 

Is this truly how we are intended to have relationships?

Why are we satisfied with surface level relationships? 

So with a little inspiration from Matthew Specktor and my kindred spirit Katie, I plan to write 3 letters this coming week. I'm not sure to who or what I will write about, but it's time I take a moment to focus on someone else and to send them some encouragement the old fashion way....snail mail!

Who can you encourage this week?

Blessings dear friends,

~JAE

A few months ago I ran into a couple from my church whom I admire. The gentleman asked when I was going to blog again. He told me that he enjoyed my blog and looked forward to reading each post. 

I was thrown off a bit because sometimes I have doubts about my writing. Who would want to read my words? Do I really have anything important to say? Does my voice even matter in the world of Twitter, FaceBook and millions of other bloggers? What do I have to say that is different than what's been said before?

On that afternoon, I realized that I need encouragement too. It's taken me awhile to compile this little post, but I've been reflecting on the amazing encouragers I have, and had, in my life. 

Upon reflection, I realized that encouragement comes in many different components of my life. I am so blessed for the friends and family who encourage me to reach my goals; the little ones, and the big ones.

Here are just a few of the categories I reflected on: {Please let me know what other categories of your lives you feel encouraged in}

“A healthy body is a guest-chamber for the soul; a sick body is a prison.”   

~Francis Bacon

Healthy Living: Let's face it friends, we live in a world of fast-food, processed junk and instant quick meals. We try to eat healthy, but life gets so busy that we use quick solutions. I'm sure we all know that the food we ingest has a direct effect on our attitude, outlook and physical well being. Having someone to hold us accountable for what we put into our bodies can make us feel better, look better, and often times can lift our spirits! 

"A river cuts through rock, not because of its power, but because of its persistence."   

~Jim Watkins

Exercise: Unfortunately many of us lack the motivation to hit the gym or hop on our treadmills by ourselves. We need accountability. We need someone to commiserate with us early in the morning hours or after a long exhausting day. We need someone that shows us tough love and will motivate us to get off that couch and to do something good for ourselves!

"Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."     ~Proverbs 27:17 (ESV)

Spirituality: Are we growing spiritually? Are we finding time for personal study? Do we seek guidance, whether through our Father, or through inner reflection? Everyone needs some inspiration here, regardless of your faith or beliefs.

"But what we can do, as flawed as we are, is still see God in other people, and do our best to help them find their own grace."     ~ Barack Obama

Relationships: We all think our perspective is "the right one." Our side of the battle field is the "good side." Whether in an argument with a spouse or a disagreement with a friend, there are times when a friend can show us both sides of a conflict or point out a flaw in our character. A good friend can tell you your flaws in grace and encourage you to be a better person.

“Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions. Small people always do that, but the really great make you feel that you, too, can become great.”     ~Mark Twain

Professionally: There are days we love our jobs and there are days we'd rather crawl back into bed. Often times it's our comrades that pull us through the day-to-day monotony, who are our cheerleaders on our toughest days, and celebrate our big and small triumphs.

“Our chief want is someone who will inspire us to be what we know we could be.” 

~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Dreams: Who knows our biggest dreams? What we want to be when we "grow up?" Our crazy ideas and dreams are often times counteracted with doubt and insecurities. We all need someone who encourages us to reach for our dreams; both big and small—and sometimes they help us discover what our dreams truly are! In fact, some friends may see that our dreams are too small and see something much greater for us.

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Try to take time this week to think about all the people who encourage you.  Maybe you have one person that fits each category, or like me, have many people who encourage you to be all that you can be! Take time to thank them. Take time to feed them with encouragement.

Who can you be of an encouragement to? 

Blessings dear friends,

~JennMarie

PS. Thank you Jerry for inspiring me to write again!

Thank you to my many encouragers: My husband, Mom & Dad, my Mother-in-law, our siblings, cousins, mentors, and friends near and far. I would not be the woman I am today if it weren't for each of you! {I wish I could call you each by name, but the list would be rather large}

"A career is wonderful, but you can't curl up with it on a cold night."

~ Marilyn Monroe

This week has been a week where I've done a lot of reflecting upon who I am. I will admit, that I struggle sometimes with not having a "full-time" job. It has been 2.5 years since I left Corporate America, and there's been many joys, but just as many doubts. My biggest struggle is seeing my Corporate America "accomplishments" side-by-side to my current "accomplishments."

As I was reflecting upon the above this week I thought about why we, Americans, define who we are by what we do. Why is it when we meet someone new we ask, "so, what do you do?" Does someone's job really define them as a person? Does a position give one individual more significance as a person than another? I sure hope not!

So let's stop defining ourselves by what we do, and start defining ourselves by who we are!

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What have you done this week to make someone smile?

What have you done this week that you thoroughly enjoy?

Are you just a list of "to-do's"? If so, cut it out! (I love a quote one of our Pastor's has posted in his office "Activity DOES NOT equal Accomplishment!")

When was the last time you sat down with your family for a meal?

Did you take time to REALLY play with your kids this week? (No iPhones, Blackberries or computers distracting you?)

When was the last time you called your Mom or Dad? Grandma? Sister? Friend?

Have you been there for someone, to just listen? Remember, there's always someone in your life who could use a friend's hug!

Does it really matter that there are Cheerios stuck to the floor, or your car needs vacuumed, or there's a load of laundry in the washer? Does tonight really need to be the night you work late? What are you missing because of these distractions?

Have you admired the world around you today?

Have you found God in the little moments? A smile. The sun, or for today, the rain. A roof over your head. Food. Clothes on your back. Friends, we are SO blessed!

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And the next time you meet someone, try asking, "So what makes you you?" rather than that dreaded, "So, what do you do!"

Remember friends, that you are loved and who you are is more important that what you do!

Blessings,
~JAE

Picture I took at the Pella, Iowa Tulip Festival

~ May 2008
A miserably cold and rainy day, but beauty was still everywhere!

Last week, we got together with our new small group!  I will admit I am very excited to get to know these 3 families better and dig into the Bible together. 


Joseph and I have a small home (more than enough space for the two of us) and it always seems overflowing when we have lots of friends over...overflowing in a great way though! We decided to put the girls in the other room with Dora as the babysitter and the adults were in the living room trying to get to know one another better.


Only minutes later, my large red yoga ball came rolling into the room with a tiny face just barely peering over it. With large eyes, a sweet smile and her little hands hugging it for dear life, Lainie pushed out this ginormous ball and giggled over and over, "BALL...BALL...BIG BALL!" 


I've thought about that moment a bit since then, not only because our 20-month-old little friend is so adorable and the memory of her wide eyes and giggles bring a smile to my face. I've thought about it because it was such a simple moment really, yet the look on her face was like she thought it was the best thing in the world.


It's just a red rubber ball, one that I walk by every day--and keep telling myself one day I'll use it. It's just like the memory with J-man, it was truly a small moment, yet again I find myself being taught a valuable life lesson from a 2 year old.


When do we lose the excitement about the little things? When do we grow up and walk past or not even notice the small things that we use to find such joy from (and I'm not just talking about a yoga ball friends)? When do we start taking the small things for granted?


Maybe life is just too busy. Maybe we don't take the time to notice the world around us. Or maybe we are just too distracted by all the stuff we have around us to notice how blessed we are.


Try to notice something around you that you miss everyday!


Love and blessings to you my friends!

~JennMarie