JennaFest part II

I just noticed that my last post was my 50th post. Happy 50th to all! Especially those of you who have been reading from the very beginning. Here is to 50 more in my second year in AmeriCorps!

Anyway, like I mentioned previously, I went home to Oregon for seven glorious days. I had an absolutely fantastic time. My number one highlight, by far, was seeing my Grammy. I flew in to Oregon at 8:30 pm Saturday night and my first stop was her house. I cannot even begin to describe all the emotions I was feeling. She looks so fantastic! It was like looking back in time and seeing the grandma that helped raise me and take care of me while I was growing up. As soon as I saw her, I burst into happiness tears. I'm tearing up right now as I type just remembering the moment. This is the Grammy I remember and I hope she can stay this way being happy and healthy.

Over the week I got to see my very good friends, some of whom I did not get a chance to see over my last visit home in May/June. I loved every minute I spent with them and was so happy to get to catch up with them and spend some quality time with them. Y'all know who you are, so thanks for the great times.

Last, but, of course, not least, I got to spend time with the Momma. She managed to get a day off during the week on short notice, so we spent the day doing what we love best; shopping and eating Chinese food. She even bought a Build-A-Bear for me at the mall. We were just passing the store and I said that one day in my life, I will have a bear from this place. And she asked if I wanted to make one now and I said, "Yeah!" I now own a tan teddy bear named Lola Jane and she is wearing khaki pants, a UO shirt and aviator sunglasses. The Momma now thinks of the bear as the grandchild she doesn't have (and she won't be getting a real one for a long time!). It kinda weirds me out, but feel free to make fun of her about it when you see her.

I had a wonderful but all to short week back home. I'll save my airport dramas for the next post (comedy and drama all in one post, so don't miss it!) Only one more week until I leave my team for TL training in Sactown!