Random thoughts from the mind of Jen...

I have been thinking alot lately, about many different topics. There is much rolling around in my mind, so bear with me. Recently, the news about the hostages in Iraq has been disheartening. The Canadians, American and German that are still there are alive, and appear to be doing well, however, the only way they're going to be released is if all Iraqis are released. This does not seem like a logical solution, and knowing the American government it will never be done. It's a catch 22 where no one is happy, and it seems like George Bush, who instigated all of this, doesn't want to do anything about the situation at hand. It's almost as if it's worth it to risk the lives of these four peacekeepers, for what he thinks is right. It's a sad situation.

Another topic that's been weighing heavily on my mind recently is the ever so popular topic of Christian, specifically Catholic sexuality. It is a topic that people are reluctant to address. Although I must say, I am impressed that Pope Benedict has released his first encyclical, and it's on that topic. From what I've been told, married Catholics are now allowed to enjoy sex. Which is wonderful, and it shows we're moving in the right direction, however there is hardly any resources to help out young adults who are struggling with it. It's not a negative struggle, it's a normal struggle that I'm sure we have been dealing with for years. There is tonnes and tonnes of material aimed at teenagers and reasons why they should wait, but there is next to nothing available for young adults and postsecondary students, who in some ways are the ones that need the most encouragement. Everything that's presented has sex in it, or has strong undertones of sex. If anyone knows of any books or websites to help me along on my journey, please let me know. Leave a comment.

The good news is that in the past two months I've lost 2 pant sizes! I am quite impressed with myself, and I never thought I could do it but it wasn't that hard. I'm working towards a better me, both physically and mentally, and it is helping out greatly. The best part of it is my excellent network of housemates and friends and family. It's great to have encouragement, and most of my housemates are also trying to eat healthier, so we keep each other going. I

My last semester was the best one I've had yet! My marks are on the rise, by a significant amount. It's kind of sad that it's taken me until third year to figure out how to study, but I'm glad I caught onto it. I've also decided to stay for a fourth year, as I figure I'm best off doing so.

I have several things planned in the upcoming months. In March I am off to New York again, for the same conference as I attended last year, as well as going to Peru for two weeks in May on a Global Connections learning experience. I am very excited for both, as they are making me work harder in school. I just got back from an amazing vacation in Florida. They are always lots of fun, and I feel so blessed to be able to take regular trips there. I come back refreshed, inspired and tanned. It's the old adage: work hard, play hard. That's my current goal is to work on that at the moment. Making the best use of my time in all ways possible.

Thanks for reading.

Love,
Jen

In the year 2006 I resolve to: Stop checking my e-mail at 3:00 in the morning. Get your resolution here

enough said.