Dear President Obama,

You’re the President of the United States now. That’s a tall order to fill. Regardless of my personal political affiliation or who I voted for on election day, the charge is now yours to lead this land that I love. I pray for your guidance and success.

On Tuesday morning I watched you begin your road to becoming President. My heart swelled with pride to be an American. I watched you stand amidst a spectacular background of red, white, and blue as the flag proudly waved. You were confident and poised. I was privileged to be a part of history as our nation swore in the first African-American President. I watched as crowds of people got tears in their eyes to witness this historic day. Only in this great land could such a feat be accomplished. We are truly blessed to be Americans.

I was struck with awe as I watched a peaceful transfer of power. There were smiles and handshakes and general good wishes as the former power gave the mantel to the new power. I think it’s this peace, this non-violent manner, that really stands out in my mind as a miracle that day. Another testament to our great land.

You showed such respect for the Office of President, as well as great personal respect for President Bush. I was touched to see your wife give Mrs. Bush a gift as you greeted the couple on the White House stairs. I think the manner in which you treated Pres. Bush and his wife speaks volumes about your character. Your wife showed me how to be an example to young women everywhere. Her graciousness, her class, and her dignity are characteristics that should be emulated in the world today. Your love and respect for your wife were also noted. I loved how you walked around the car to open her door and walked beside her as you took on new responsibilities…together. It’s obvious to me that you are both in this; it’s not a one-sided job.

And now, as we move forward into the future, it’s my wish that you will succeed. That together, as a nation, we can be united and bring about change. Together, we can make the world a better place for all of us, for our children, and for future generations. All eyes are on you now to see if you will bring about the change that you talked about all during the campaign. Don’t let us down. And may “God bless America.”

Sincerely,

Jen

When I Leave My Desk Unattended

This is what happens.

The poor puppets...they never saw it coming.

Word of the Day: Gratitude

Gratitude: a word I needed to adopt today.

I'm grateful...

- Even though there is no easy way for me to get home from work thanks to construction (that will last until November 2009), I'm grateful for a home to go to.

- When the snow just keeps falling and falling and falling and the temperatures just keep falling and falling and falling, I'm grateful for a safe commute with drivers who are also being safe.

- When I drop my purse in a huge pile of snow, I'm grateful my purse was closed.

- Even though it was just "one of those days" where no matter how hard I tried it just wasn't good enough, I'm grateful for my drive and my desire to find a solution to problems...even if there was no real solution at the end of the day.

- When I tripped and almost fell down the warehouse stairs and really hurt my foot, I'm grateful for no broken bones.

- I'm grateful for completing a goal I set for myself this week.

- For this little guy...just can't get enough of him.

- Even though I didn't get to take all of the vacation I wanted to over the Christmas break, I'm grateful for a job to go to. Even if SuperDaysh throws things over the top of the cubicle that hit me in the head.

- And finally, I'm grateful for a week of "freedom."

A Letter to 2008

Dear 2008,

Here it is, the end of another year, and I feel like I was just barely getting to know you. You, 2008, were not exactly what I was expecting this year. Your brother 2007 was a wild ride…he took me over seas, brought me a new nephew, and took me in a new career direction. 2007 was full of ups and downs; excitements and let downs; the end of some things and the beginning of others. 2008, you were much calmer. And yet, in your own right, you brought something new and wonderful to me.

It’s true, I didn’t go on any exotic vacations…although I really wanted to. I didn’t change jobs…although there were times when I really wanted to. There were no huge life-changing experiences, no big, bold revelations, and there were no real surprises. 2008, you were constant.

You certainly weren’t as exciting as your brother, 2007, but 2008 you taught me the most about myself. I learned more about who Jen is and what it is that she really needs and wants in her life. In fact, you taught me how to accept life just as it is…even if the path I’m on is so much different than the path I ever expected.

You taught me how to play the office polictal game…the right way. It’s not always about being right (even when you are) and it’s not always about having the best idea. Sometimes, you just have to learn to play nice, even if it’s painful. Eventually, your hardwork and determination will pay off. It just may take a little more time than originally thought.

You taught me to accept life’s circumstances. It’s true, I did not (and still don’t) want to be going to that family ward. Yet, it’s where I need to be. Even if my calling is being the “nursey treat coordiantor.” Perhaps, somehow or somewhere, I may be touching a life. Maybe my example is helping someone else live a good life. I sure hope so.

2008, you taught me to love myself. Sure, I can no longer fit into those “skinny” jeans, but I don’t dwell on that. I’ve accepted me, all of me, for who I am. But, 2008, will you do me a favor? Will you please ask 2009 to bring me a little bit of weight loss success? (I’m not asking for too much, I promise.)

I learned that I am a wonderful person…just the way I am. I learned that I have much to give professionally, spritually, and mentally. I am a strong, courageous woman. Sometimes, I am scared and worry. Sometimes, I wonder if my life is as it should be, if I’m making the right choices. And sometimes, I just wish things were different. 2008, you showed me how to accept all of these things about myself, even the weaknesses. And for that, I consider this year to be a success.

So, here’s to another year. Here’s to more self-exploration, more peace and contentment…and maybe even an exciting vacation or two. And 2009, I really do mean it when I say I want world peace.

Love,
Jen

An Update of Sorts

It’s been a long time since an update! Sorry SuperDaysh. I still don’t have much time to update so here’s a quick run down on life right now:

- It’s almost Christmas. And it’s cold and snowy. But I don’t have much Christmas spirit. I blame it on work.
- Speaking of work, I’m still mad at Dane.
- I could really use a long nap right now.
- Or a cruise to some warm, exotic location.
- I kicked a full glass of Pomegranate 7-Up all over my carpet. Oops!
- I can’t believe that the people on The Biggest Loser lose nearly half of their body weight percentage. It’s incredible!
- I’m going to be very grumpy if I don’t get to use my time off during the Christmas break.
- I saw Twilight…and liked it. Shocking, I know.

Good Morning America

OK, so I don't usually talk about work on my blog here (you know, because it's my personal blog and I need an outlet OUTSIDE of work). But this is just too cool to pass up. It's a fun time to be in marketing!

Watch this!

I Wish I Were Gwyenth

Dear Gwyenth,

You are one lucky woman. Not only is your husband a cutie-patutie, but he puts on one heck of a concert! And the rest of the band, not so bad either. Thank you for sharing him with the rest of Salt Lake City. It was much appreciated.

Love,

Jen