Home At Last

I made it home this afternoon!

It has been nothing short of fantastic...Kira picked me up at the airport late last night, my parents met us for breakfast this morning, I got fitted and measured for Erin and Dan's wedding, then we headed to Wisconsin.

We have been busy playing with Woofie, making our own Johnson music on Rock Band, visiting Gma and Bernie and Unca, and sledding down the icy hills. Pictures will follow soon.

The agenda for tomorrow: cross country skiing, making krumkake, hanging out with family friends, and playing games!

I love this.

With joy--
HGJ

Surviving Christmas

I survived this week with flying colors! How about you?

It was actually a great time--though I am really...really... excited to be flying home tomorrow night!

Here's a quick rundown of the past few days:

Dozens of generous presents from the Our Saviors Community

11 people I celebrated Christmas day with

10 calls home in the past two days

9 rounds of "golf" with the Quams

8 minute sermon written to be preached tomorrow morning, but I need to make it longer!

7 types of goodies I've eaten since Christmas eve

6 mile hike/climb up and down mountain

5 friends from my old church visiting from up north

4 Christmas church services lead

3 Christmas celebration meals in 3 locations with 3 different families

2 frosts that left car windshield to be scraped

1 overall--generally--happy person :)

Hope you are all well. I probably won't be writing again until I'm in Wisconsin. I cannot wait. I'll be sure to update you with the happenings and snow reports while I'm at home!

Peace--

HGJ

Swimming in the Rain

My first thought this morning was, "blah." Now I don't want to spend my whole day saying that, so I thought I should do to commemorate Christmas in AZ in lieu of the family fun happening at home.

Cleaning? Needed, but no.

Running through the morning church service? Not fun. No.

Going for a jaunt around the neighborhood? It was raining.

So...I figured if I was going to get wet anyway, I might as well go swimming. So that's what I did!

So I swam and water jogged as I planned my children's sermon and channeled Gene Kelly's song--with my own twist of course.

I'm swimming in the rain,
Just swimming in the rain
What a glorious feelin'
I'm happy again!

Swimming in the rain
Dee-ah dee-ah dee-ah
Dee-ah dee-ah dee-ah
I'm happy again!
I'm singin' and swimming in the rain!

You've got to do, what you've got to do to survive :)

Joy to the World...Merry Christmas.

Peace--
HGJ

Go Tell It on the Mountain!

We're here...the time we've all been waiting for has finally arrived!

Although my Christmas doesn't officially begin until Sunday night, the festivities and work commence in its honor. It's off to church and parties we go to welcome and celebrate the great event of Jesus' birth.

Wherever you find yourself, Merry Christmas. May your time with family and friends be blessed with joy!

Ok, I'm off to church. This is going to be a LONG night and morning.

All the best,
HGJ

Year in Pictures

I love this time of year. Most of the big projects are done by this time--homework, papers, card writing, present buying, sermon writing--well maybe not all of it--but we're getting close!

I also love it because it's like our "twilight." It's the end, and it's the beginning. It's our time to reflect on this past year, and it's our time to re-gear and re-center for the next year.

I got one of my favorite Christmas presents today. It's not from family or friends--though my growing amaryllis from a parishioner is pretty cool--but it's from MSNBC, of all things.

Each Friday they publish their "Week in Pictures." It's one of the highlights on my day off. It's the first thing I click into in the morning. I love to see the photos and experience the news in a unique way.

My present was that today MSNBC published their "Year in Pictures"--both news and sports. The slide shows recap 2008 in a way like no other. The photos are stunning and vivid, heartbreaking and heartwarming, complicated and simple, fresh and a good reminder of all that has happened in the last 12 months.

I was reminded of the floods in the Midwest, the Russian bombings, war in Kenya, Hurricane Ike, the jet crash and rebel fighting in the Congo, Michael Phelps' victories, the storms in the west, the volcanic eruption in Chile, the May 12th earthquake in China, the economic crisis, Obama's election...

Anyway, I recommend checking it out, if you have extra time in the next few days (follow the link above). Plus you get to vote for your favorite pic!

Have fun, and enjoy!

Peace--
HGJ

ALF

Today has been interesting. As usual, things never turn out as expected.

I tried to go to the post office. Too busy.
I tried to stop and get my bread & butter donation for the staff party. Too many people.
I tried to take a nap. Too much commotion outside.
I tried to swim. Too cold.

But...BUT...today was not a loss. It was actually a pretty good day in the end. You might think I'm crazy, but I found old episodes of ALF online tonight. It is fantastic!

I loved him when I was a kid. And I have to admit I still do. I mean, who doesn't like an alien who pastimes are eating cats and causing extra drama in a family?

Watching him brought back a lot of good memories. He made me smile. How could he not?!
It's official...it's been a weird day. But certainly a good one.

Peace--
HGJ

What to do?

I’ve been doing a lot of teaching lately—bible studies, forums, classes, devotions, etc. I love it. It’s my favorite part, outside of youth ministry and visitations, that is. I like thinking of ways to engage the text and topic in new ways. I enjoy gathering with them in a circle (a new format for some) and facilitating discussion. I am glad to know I learn as they learn.

But recently, I have been faced with some interesting thoughts during these teaching sessions. Here are two examples for you.

Yesterday we got on the topic of suffering and death—not an uncommon topic for many of these groups. One woman in her 80s was sharing how hard it has been to have lost her son. She ended her comments by saying, “But I guess this is just God testing me.” The other group members agreed in unison. Before I could jump in and say something, another woman, also in her 80s, commented about how she lost her sister when she was very young. She said “the thing that has gotten me through” was a “token” someone told her at the funeral. That person said, “God wanted extra ‘flowers’ in his ‘garden,’ and so he chose (Louise) because she was extra special and beautiful.”

WHAT?! Why would God do that? What kind of God do we believe in?

Once again, I was ready to jump in and say something…but I couldn’t.

What do you say to someone that has made sense of their story for 60+ years with these anecdotes—as unfair as they might be? They believe it is the truth. Is it right to call them out on it in a group setting such as this? How do you exercise fairness and honesty while being patient and delicate? Do sayings such as these benefit us?

Some things to ponder today. Hmmmm...What do you think?

Your friend--
HGJ

Baby It's Cold Outside...

It's not only one of my favorite Christmas songs, but it's a reality--relatively speaking, of course.

I just got home from church, and I am cold! It's 48 degrees in Mesa. Brrr...Today was the first day I wore socks and clogs. Every other day has been Chacos. What despair! The sun is hiding and northern Arizona is getting hit with snow.

I know, I know, I shouldn't complain...and I'm not. I'm lucky I don't have a negative sign in front of my temperature, like at home. In Osceola today, the wind chill factor was -30. Ah! I'm starting to get worried that my parents don't know where my winter jacket is.

Uh oh.

But I am enjoying the cold while it lasts. I was kindly reminded by a church member tonight that soon we'll be roasting like chestnuts on an open fire. Another uh oh.

Wherever you are tonight, I hope you are warm!

All the best,
HGJ

Sunday Responsibilities

1. Greet Santa Claus at the door.

2. Take care of Santa during the morning.

3. Hang out with youth.

4. Coordinate writing Christmas cards to the shut-ins.

5. Laugh with the youth at Confirmation.

6. Eat lasagna made by a nice mom.

7. Listen to the Christmas Cantata at church.

8. Hug some people, shake hands with others.

9. Cheer on the Vikings against the Arizona Cardinals!

10. Figure out what today meant.

Yep. That's my day.

Two weeks until home :) I think I can make it.

Have a great week.

Peace--
HGJ

PS...I'm writing a final paper this week for my online Lutheran Hymnody course. I basically need to write about a hymn I think should be forever canonized in Lutheran hymnals. Any suggestions? I'm not too excited about this.

Beautifully Quiet

The chaos of the holidays is here--although this 70 degree weather, Chacos everyday, and sunshine have me believe it's still September. I think I would have to be here for a full year in order for this season without snow to make sense.

But...the stores are packed, the post office is just plain ridiculous with the crowds (I opted to go to a Box and Mail today--but the price was outrageous!), the cactus are lit, and my calendar is telling me otherwise. It really is almost Christmas.

Next week, and actually the time up until I go home, is crazy busy (Two week from tomorrow!). I know I'm not the only one with the intense schedule, I feel like I need a secretary just to keep track of all the engagements.

So, in preparation and in hope of preventing a "crash," I took some time yesterday and today to recuperate and rejuvenate. It was fantastic! Indeed, it was "beautifully quiet" and fun.

My favorite thing? Today I went to Mark & Karen's (my supvervisor's home) to learn how to make Krumkake. It was a blast! Now, I'm saving up for my own iron :)

So the good news of the week: I feel ready, Christmas. Bring it on!

Hope you are all well! I miss you.

Peace--
HGJ

Advent Conspiracy

I didn't have many interesting things happen today, so my writing is limited. Instead, I've decided to share something intriguing with you.

My friend Nina blogged about "What's it really about?" today. She wrote about Christmas and life, and it's great. It's a good reminder what this season is all about...not consumerism, but worshiping more fully, spending less, giving more, and loving all.

Get inspired from Advent Conspiracy. Check it out and then watch the video she posted.

I dare you.

With joy--
HGJ

Graced by love

These are the only words I can express about today....I have been graced by love.

Things might not always be the best, but small surprises and acts of grace always seem to find me. They are, as one of my favorite professors Rollie Martin says, my "well-springs."

Cases in point:

-the arrival of Christmas cards in the mail from friends and family far away.

-an amazingly wonderful package from Nina today. She is nothing short of spectacular.

-being saved today from my unlucky Tuesdays by my friends and coworkers at Our Saviors.

-fun emails from friends across the country about the adventures they have encountered.

-talking to my brother Micah this afternoon who just returned from Vienna and Slovakia (his first time abroad). He has promised to travel with me now!

-dinner and games at my home away from home in Gold Canyon. The Hackneys are always so kind and generous--they even let me win tonight :)

-having many wonderful and fantastic weeks with my good friend, Erin, who is now returning to Minnesota in the morning. I could not have asked for a better present than to have her around. She was a lifesaver.

Thank you to those of you who give so much. You are heroes.
I hope that in some small way I can also be same for you.

Peace--

HGJ

Weekend Update

Another weekend...come and gone already...it's been way too fast! It has been full of so many adventures, I can hardly remember yesterday. But here are a few highlights:

1. Sitting with Bri (Matt's wife) at the Women of the ELCA's Advent Breakfast. All of the company was good, but it was fun to sit with her and know that I wasn't alone in the under 55 category. The other women were so kind and the food was good too!

2. Dinner date with Erin at P.F. Chang's and concert at the Mesa Arts Center with Erin and her aunt and uncle. We went to hear the Gin Blossoms (Don't ring a bell? Think "Anywhere you go, I'll follow you down" and "Hey jealousy"). We had fun. It is a beautiful center. And we scored backstage passes for a "Meet and Greet," though once we got back there, we realized we had no idea who these people really are--or what they look like--so we took a quick picture and escaped.

3. And we both fell in love with one of the opening acts: Benton Paul. He's Jason Mraz + John Mayer-like. Check out his website sometime when you need a distraction.

4. And it was another good church day, though the four services of Holy Communion + 2 hours of Confirmation (I love the youth) tend to put me in a coma for the rest of Sundays. I enjoyed much of this morning though, so that was a nice treat.

Speaking of communion, my friend Laura in New York wrote a wonderful blog today on it. It's a good one, and I think it will make you smile. Check that out too...

Ok, I am off to write out some "thank you's" and listen to Benton Paul.

Peace to you all--

HGJ

Skipping Christmas?

I just returned home from an evening of Christmas music and holiday goodies with the staff at Our Saviors (the first evening of two). It was a nice night with new friends. Good food and company.

But as I sat there tonight, I realized I kind of feel like skipping Christmas.

Now I'm not talking about ignoring the celebration of Jesus' birth, but I'm talking about some of the other stuff.

As much as I try--and will continue to try--this year won't feel like Christmas. No family and lifelong friends. No snow. No tree. Not even fondue, Name That Tune with UB, and present opening on Christmas Eve.

My holiday will revolve around church and lighted cactus. Now this doesn't mean it won't include good food and fun festivities, but it won't be the same.

I keep trying to think that my next Christmases will be different but many pastors--young and old--have been honest with me about the whole situation and have shared that this is pretty much it. Not that there isn't good in it, but they've said, and I know, that Christmas will be different from here on out.

And of course, it didn't help that my gmail account was flooded tonight with pictures from home like this one:Good ol' Popparoni and Kugroni with our new tree and an identical sign to the one I held up in front of the Taj Mahal three years ago this December.

Ok...enough wallowing. Tomorrow's a new day. It begins with the WELCA Advent Breakfast. At least I don't have to cook or do dishes.

Peace and Grace--

HGJ

Shocked

I just came home from youth group tonight, and there is only one word to describe how I feel about the youth of our country and church:

SHOCKED!

Now I wouldn't consider myself naive about teenagers, their choices, manners, etc. I haven't been a rebel by most standards, but I've been around youth enough--especially in the past two years--to understand what's going on. Still, the reality of many of these kids' lives is dumbfounding to me. So much of what 15-16 year olds were doing when I was that age, is now being done in the 11-12-13 range (relationships with their families, dating, parties, skipping school, etc).

But, I have to say their stories and sharing tonight shows why I like youth ministry so much. They aren't afraid to be transparent and to be real about life and God.

I appreciate that.

It also makes me never want to have kids--or kids that turn into teenagers!

Ok, now I sound like a grandma--or as some of the kids called them tonight "raisins." Oh dear.

Hope you are well--

HGJ

Rabbit, Rabbit!

December 1st, 2008.

My 10th grade math teacher always used to say "Rabbit, Rabbit" for good luck on the first day of the month. Superstitious? Of course. I fell for it. But I really like it because it officially marks a beginning. Another month to give more, love more, try more.

A year seems like a long time, but break it down into 12 Rabbit, Rabbits, and its nothing.

Ok, I'm officially crazy, or I'm really tired. Probably both.

I hate it when I can't sleep.

So, if this brings us more luck...or just plain fun...Rabbit, Rabbit.

Your friend,

HGJ

CPE Revisited

This morning after church, one of the pastors asked if I would make some hospital visits today. Flashbacks of CPE came rolling through my head as he listed off the 7 people for me to call on at one of the hospitals. Cancer patients, heart patients, people post-op, some in for routine things, others for emergencies, their family and friends.

(The number of Our Saviors people in the hospital continues to grow as the winter visitor population increases. And I wasn't even seeing all of the people on the list today.)

As I drove to the hospital, I was thinking about this last summer and the good and bad I encountered at United. I kept trying to remember what I learned from my 400+ hours spent as a chaplain and what kind of an impact it made on me as an individual and as a pastor.

But I am still kind of speechless about the whole thing.

Maybe it's because I have a horrible memory, or because the experiences I had have become such a part of me that I don't remember pastoral care "pre-CPE." Or maybe it's simply because I haven't thought that much about CPE in the past three months, even though I'm in the hospitals almost on a daily basis. I'm sure it's a combination of all three.

However, I do know that I am grateful to have had the experience of being with those people in June, July, and August, just as I am grateful to have visited these people today. I think this is what I like most about this ministry. Actually, I know that this is what I like most about ministry.

I'm not huge on sitting in an office and reading. I get too antsy. I don't especially like doing exegesis or shuffling through Bible commentaries. I get bogged down. I don't even get that excited about liturgy and traditional hymns.

I like to visit people, greet them, and remind them that we (God, the church, me) care. I like taking time to hear people's stories. I like to smile and to laugh with them. I like to joke about the horrible hospital food and Sunday football scores. I like to support and encourage them while holding their hands and praying with them.

Sure it takes time, but this escapade today was a good reminder for me as to why I'm here. Some days I wonder. I guess it's my nature to do so. Tomorrow might be different (it probably will be!), but, for some reason tonight I know.

And that's certainly something to be thankful for!

Have a great week. And Happy New Year :) (It's the first Sunday of the church year.)

Peace--

HGJ

Little Extra Sunshine

Some might think that Arizona gets all the sunshine it needs, no problem. I disagree.

It was rainy/stormy/damp/gloomy on Wednesday and Thursday. It helped to make it feel like home for the holidays. Kind of. Still, it didn't make up for missing Thanksgiving at home.

But...little extra pieces of "sunshine" have made it into my life in the past three days, and I am so grateful.

Erin & her gracious family have been lifesavers. I almost felt "normal"--like I would be in MN or WI--this weekend.

After church on Thursday morning, I headed north to Mayo Hospital to do some visits before heading to Erin's aunt & uncle's house in Scottsdale for some turkey & fun. It was a little awkward at first to be a part of a different family's day, but in the end, it was a good time.

Friday morning, Erin and I went on a quick jaunt in the neighborhood, then ran to Target to check out their $3 movies and eat. And even though the Christmas music has been playing and decorations are going up, this weather makes it hard to be convinced that its Advent or anywhere near Christmas.

And last night was spectacular! Mark (my supervising pastor) and his wife Karen invited to LUMI: a luminaria celebration at the Phoenix Botanical Gardens. The desert has its own beauty, but on top of that, the Chihuly exhibitions throughout the park were breathtaking. We spent hours following the lit trails and admiring the glass sculptures. It was an absolute amazing thing to see. I highly recommend it to anyone in the area.


But the fun didn't end there. This morning, we headed back to Papago Park. Grandpa Chuck (Erin's g-pa) gave us tickets to the Phoenix Zoo! I love zoos. We saw giraffes, monkeys, rhinos, snakes, goats, tigers, a lion, cheetah, flamingos, turtles, and everything in between (well, things that can survive in the desert, at least). Now, I'm gearing up for the San Diego Zoo!


And then Erin and I spent the rest of the day eating our favorite Indian food, napping, going to see Polar Express in 3D at the Imax theatre, and stopping in at the only local REI.

I could not have asked for a better weekend to kick-off the holidays.

I've realized this is all so much easier having someone around to do things with. It makes being here 150% better. The only bad news is that Erin's only here another 10 days before heading home for good. At the same time, it also means its 10 days closer until I get to go home for a visit. You're right, Laura, let the countdown begin!

Well, now that you know everything that I've done in the past 72 hours, I had better figure out what I need to do to get ready for church tomorrow.

Miss you. Hope you are well!

With joy--

HGJ

No...vember...Thanksgiving for Family

Here's my sermonette for tonight and tomorrow. Thought I would share it with you :)

I miss you all. I wish we could be celebrating this "giving thanks" weekend together. I would give anything to be there with you...in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, New York, and California, that is!

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!

Peace-- HGJ

No flowers. No sun. No warmth. No leaves. No green. No…vember. When I was in 3^rd grade my teacher helped our class write a story about the month of November with these lines. Ms. Momchilovich was obviously referring to the cold, gray, rainy, days that are typical this time of year in the Midwest, not the experience most of the time in sunny Arizona. Because here and in many parts of the world, November is filled with flowers, sun, warmth, leaves, and green or greens for those of you golfers out there. But Ms. Momchilovich missed a big part of November in our story, the best part of November…Thanksgiving.

In our family, we think of the holiday that arrives tomorrow as a Giving Thanks Day because it helps us to remember what the occasion is really about. Not the turkey, or sage dressing or Grandma’s giblet gravy, the pumpkin pie or even Uncle Ronnie’s highly coveted Corn Mush or the Mason Family’s (my mother’s side) Beet Salad and Mincemeat which you have to serve even though nobody eats it. It’s not about the family gathering, the traditional family portrait, or even the game of 500 and the same family stories we share without fail each and every year.

It is about gathering before the meal and saying an extended blessing that includes thanks and praise to our Creator of the feast and all the good things that have been showered upon us in the past year. It is a time for remembering loved ones passed and recognizing family and friends present. It is the breadth and length and height and depth of gratitude that we experience and express on Thanksgiving that mirrors the love of Christ showered on us each and every day. It is the way we experience God through the love of other people gathered with us, whether they are our biological families or relational and church families.

For me this year, this Giving Thanks Day: No immediate family, but plenty of friends. No Corn Mush, but plenty of fresh lemons from the Hoffman tree. No family stories, but plenty of new tales to hear. No rain, but plenty of sunshine. No falling leaves, but plenty of desert beauty and plenty sun, plenty warmth, plenty greens and a breadth and length and height and depth of gratitude showered upon me daily and returned in Thanksgiving to God and to this church family. Amen & Happy Thanksgiving!

They're baaaaaaaaaack!

Today I woke up to cloudy skies for the first time in over three months. And it isn't that they were just cloudy this morning, but they have been all day long.

It's a little depressing because I'm not exactly sure how to live here without the sun. I certainly wouldn't want to. But today, for the most part, it has been the most wonderful treat.

And then, I went to Target to grab some band-aids, straws, and popsicles (weird shopping list, I know), and I was shocked.

The "winter visitors" (they don't like the term "snow birds") are back. Well, some of them, at least. I couldn't find a parking place, there were people everywhere inside and out, and in the style of most residents of Mesa, they were going very, very slowly. I never want to go shopping here again. And this isn't even the height of the season!

It's kind of fun to watch cars and see where people are from. And of course, it helps to know which cars and lines of traffic to avoid.

Now if I could only temporarily swap my WI license plate for an AZ one, people wouldn't flag me as a snow bird!

My goodness. Life...and Arizona...are full of surprises.

Well, I'm headed back to church. Tuesdays are my day at the Epiphany campus in Apache Junction.

Peace--
HGJ

The Weekend Bucket List

1. Make it to Vegas and back. Check.

2. Learn about coaching. Check.

3. Have fun with the Phoenix co-hort. Check. Check. Check.

4. Catch up with friends on the phone & play phone tag with others. Check.

5. Hang out with Erin. Check.

6. See Twilight & fall in love with the Cullens. Check.

7. Preach my sermon. Check. (It went really well).

8. Lead the adult forum on giving. Check. (Surprisingly, another success!)

9. Teach confirmation about every day mission. Check. (I love kids.)

10. Smile, now that it's all done with. Check.

11. Give thanks. Check. Check. Check.

12. Take a nap....I'll let you know how it goes :)

It's been a good weekend. Lots of fun with fun people.
And it's only a three-day week now. Woohoo!

Hope you are all well.

Peace--
HGJ

Everyday Mission..in Mesa & Vegas!

These days are flying by. So much to do, so little time. I am missing youth group tonight to catch up on the things for Sunday: sermon, children's sermon, adult forum, and confirmation. All of it is centered around the movie The Bucket List and the 29-Giving Challenge. Basically, the focus is on everyday mission.

I'm kind of nervous talking about it, and I'm not quite sure why. Some people already think we "do" enough, but I think it's a delusion. We can never do enough. Others argue it's works righteousness, but I don't think that's what the gospel lesson is about this week or what we are about anytime. We'll see how it goes...I'll keep you posted.

Anyway, I'm off to Las Vegas early tomorrow through Saturday with the co-hort interns for fun and, if there's time, a coaching workshop :) Just kidding. We are going for the workshop, and we'll have a little extra time for fun too.

And now laundry is calling my name, as is the coaching book that I am supposed to read by tomorrow!

Peace--
HGJ

Good News

Good news today!

My dad's procedure went well this morning. Thank you for your prayers!
He is home recuperating and under the care of Woofie :) I miss them both.

And now, I'm off to do some homework and head to bed.

With joy--
HGJ

Papparone!

Some of you know this, but just a heads up and a prayer request.
My dad, Neil, aka Popparone, is having surgery tomorrow morning back home. He is having his 3rd pacemaker/defibrillator put in. No complications are expected, but most people don't get 3 pacemakers in their lifetime, and it's different this time because I'm not close to home.

I'll update tomorrow night, but if you would please keep him and the rest of my family in your prayers tonight, I would greatly appreciate it!

Hope you are all well. I'm glad we survived another Sunday. What a LONG day! A good day, but a long one.

Best--
HGJ

Time Machines...

Time. Sometimes I like it. Some of the time I don't. I wonder what our lives would be like without following time all the time.

(I wonder how many times I can say "time" in this blog?!)

I think I would like life better if we didn't count down the years, months, weeks, days, hours, minutes, seconds...and yet I can't help it. I guess it motivates me.

1 1/2 years until school is done.
9 months of internship left.
2 weeks-ish until Thanksgiving.
43 days until I go home.
11 hours until I should be at church.
2 minutes until my tea should be done.
A few more seconds until I click into my gmail.

It feels like time flies by when we don't want it to, and it takes forever when we want to get done with something.

I just wish I had a time travel machine to go back in time and to fast-forward time (like Keith & Shirley's dvr)! That sounds like fun, doesn't it?

Anyway, I was thinking about last November 15th. A bunch of us were out celebrating Scott's birthday at Midway Bowl and Perkins. It was a good night. Great people. Lots of fun. (Photo courtesy of ASM).
I was thinking though, if I had a time machine, I would use it tonight, and it would be awesome! Plus, then we could hang out with Dustin who's wearing his cool bowling shirt.

If only I were an inventor...or I could find one on ebay.


Peace--
HGJ

Sunday, Monday, Happy Days...Tuesday, Wednesday, Happy Days

So, I haven't blogged in a few days...but I don't really have that many exciting things happening this week. I think I am well settled into the life of an Intern Pastor. I guess this is kind of what normal life is for adults. Hmmm.

But I am content with most of what's going on. That's a good thing to be able to say, right?

I'm just hoping that Wednesday follows suit. Tomorrow is full of meetings, studies, intern committee discussions, and, my favorite hours of the week: hanging out with the youth. Today I am considering taking a call as a youth pastor when I'm ordained. Doesn't that sound like fun?

Anyway, it is hard to believe it is 11.11 today. Only a few weeks until Thanksgiving, and 57 days until I fly home! (Not that I'm counting or anything.)

I hope your days have been graced by love and lots of fun.

Peace--
HGJ

PS...Happy Veteran's Day!

A shocker...

Not only did the Vikings squeak by in their game today against the Packers, but that wasn't even the biggest shocker of my day...

I saw rain for the first time in months!

Holy moley, I almost forgot what it looks like, feels like, even smells like.

It was so refreshing...Don't get me wrong, I love to see the sun every day, but change is nice.

Have a great week.

Peace--
HGJ

500 Miles

One of my favorite songs is The Proclaimers' I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles). It makes me happy just to think about it.

It popped in my head today when my Mom and I walked around our neighborhood, to the mall, to the movie theater, to Target, K-Mart, Michael's, Sally's, Circuit City, and Chili's. No, we didn't walk 500 miles, but we walked a good distance. It was wonderful to be outside and enjoying the 8o degree weather on a gentle trot through E. Mesa.

I have to say though, people around us thought we were crazy. I guess people don't walk here, even when it's nice out. In all reality, people don't spend much time outside at all, apart from golfing. It kind of makes me sad.

Theory of the day: If we walked more, we would be all-around happier.

And now I am off to practice my sermon for tomorrow out at Epiphany. It's called "Once Upon a Time." I'm excited.

Peace--
HGJ

My fill

I often talk about getting "my fill" of things. Mostly it is in reference to things that aren't fun and are usually overwhelming. In the past, I have gotten "my fill" of meetings, homework, chores, & busy work schedules, to name a few.

But today, "my fill" is a little different. I have been filled with joy and hope as I received surprise letters in the mail, talked with some of my favorite people in far away places, and discussed politics with some of Arizona's most fascinating youth.

To those of you who added to my daily quota in abundance, thank you.

All the best,

HGJ

A great day for the United States

Regardless of who you voted for, it was, undoubtedly, a great day for the United States of America.

The people have spoken.

I could not be more proud.

There is still hope for us all.

Now, the work begins...not just with our President-Elect, but with each and every one of us.

I sleep tonight with a smile on my face.

Peace--
HGJ

You can vote however you like...

This made me smile on this election eve.

It's called "You can vote however you like."

Obama on the left
McCain on the right
We can talk politics all night
And you can vote however you like
You can vote however you like, yeah

Democratic left
Republican right
November 4th we decide
And you can vote however you like
You can vote however you like, yeah

(McCain supporters)
McCain is the man
Fought for us in Vietnam
You know if anyone can
Help our country he can
Taxes droppin low
Dont you know oils gonna flow
Drill it low
I'll show our economy will grow

McCain's the best candidate
With Palin as his running mate
They'll fight for gun rights, pro life,
The conservative right
Our future is bright
Better economy in site
And all the world will feel our military might

(Obama supporters)
But McCain and Bush are real close right
They vote alike and keep it tight
Obama's new, he's younger too
The Middle Class he will help you
He'll bring a change, he's got the brains
McCain and Bush are just the same
You are to blame, Iraq's a shame
Four more years would be insane

Lower your Taxes - you know Obama Won't
PROTECT THE LOWER CLASS - You know McCain won't!
Have enough experience - you know that they don't
STOP GLOBAL WARMING - you know that you won't

I want Obama
FORGET OBAMA
Stick with McCain and you're going to have some drama
We need it
HE'LL BRING IT
He'll be it
YOU'LL SEE IT
We'll do it
GET TO IT
Let's move it
DO IT!

Obama on the left
McCain on the right
We can talk politics all night
And you can vote however you like
You can vote however you like, yeah

Democratic left
Republican right
November 4th we decide
And you can vote however you like, I said
You can vote however you like, yeah

I'm talking big pipe lines, and low gas prices
Below $2.00 that would be nice

But to do it right we gotta start today
Finding renewable ways that are here to stay

I want Obama
FORGET OBAMA,
Stick wit McCain you gone have some drama
MORE WAR IN IRAQ
Iran he will attack
CAN'T BRING OUR TROOPS BACK
We gotta vote Barack!

Obama on the left
McCain on the right
We can talk politics all night
And you can vote however you like, I said
You can vote however you like, yeah

Democratic left
Republican right
November 4th we decide
And you can vote however you like, I said
You can vote however you like, yeah

Going Wild!

This weekend has been a crazy one, to say the least. Busy, busy, busy!

I preached again this weekend at E. Mesa and Gold Canyon (I'll get the audio uploaded as soon as it's available), had the annual Council retreat, confirmation, and the hockey game.

Attendance continues to grow, as do the number of worship services/weekend. We are up to 8, and next week we'll be at 9. Talk about a lot of people!

But the highlight of my weekend (outside of preaching & Sunday lunch) was the hockey game.

Last night 55 of us carpooled over to Glendale to Jobbing.com Arena for the hockey showdown between the Minnesota Wild and the Phoenix Coyotes. (Perfect game, huh?) It was a blast!

The arena is amazing. The fun incalculable. Plus, we (meaning the Wild) won 3-2.

Here is my favorite picture from the night: our van-load of friends.



And now the good news for today: Erin Marie Green is in town for her P.A. rotation, so more fun is a guarantee!

I hope you had a fantastic weekend.

Your tired friend,

HGJ

Happy Halloween!

This past week at Bible Study, I asked those in attendance to introduce themselves and, if they had celebrated Halloween when they were little, to share what their favorite costume was growing up. Most of the people didn't dress up or celebrate (for some, Halloween didn't exist when they were young), but some had creative tricks they pulled on people. Surprise, surprise!

As I sit in 90 degree weather, it doesn't feel like Halloween. I just talked to Kira in MN though, and she said it is in the 60s at home. I guess that doesn't feel like Halloween very much either.

Some of my favorite costumes growing up?

A dinosaur (we won a contest), a Twins Homer Hankey (91 World Series and year of the blizzard), Pippi Longstocking, a lion!

Oh the fun!

I loved Halloween because it meant we would go visit some of our shut-in neighbors and family friends, pie at Grandma and Bernie's, Garfield's birthday celebration (he's 103 this year), and king-size candy bars at Unca's.

Last Halloween was spent with friends in South Minneapolis. Kira was a crayon, and I was a penguin.

This year, celebrating will be a bit different, but good, I'm sure. I'm not convinced there will be any trick-or-treaters, but we'll see. If nothing else, I'll work on my "All Saints" sermon.

Peace--
HGJ

Unstuck

Convocation (noun):
the act of convoking; a group of people gathered in answer to a summons; assembly.

Today was the Bishop's Convocation for the Grand Canyon Synod. The interns--along with all pastors--were required to attend. 100+ of us gathered at a church on the west side of Phoenix for discussion, networking, lunch, and study.

I wouldn't consider it to be the most fun day of internship...or of my pastoral career. In fact, I did not learn particularly anything new. But I found my "spot" among the crowd at a table in the back with other interns and a few joy-filled pastors who weren't in the mood to take the day too seriously.

We kind of had our own convocation. Even in the midst of long sessions of sitting and lecturing, we laughed and observed and had a nice time.

These assemblies are beneficial for many reasons: for the purpose of gathering, for sharing, for talking with the Bishop, for continuing education, but I think, at the same time, they can be a dead giveaway as to why the church--especially the Lutheran church--is struggling today.

Two things really stuck out to me. (Here goes some blanket statements, so beware)-->

1. A high majority of the people in the room (including myself) all looked the same and come from the same background. We express diversity, but it is not always evident in our leadership or even in our congregations. Yes, outreach to diverse populations is a large part of the church, but how come we aren't asking why there isn't more diversity in the pews or even in the pulpits?

2. Worship was nice and, although it was very much rooted in Lutheran tradition, it was not especially engaging or even "of today." Simply, I was not able to relate. I'm not trying to justify changing worship to match our world, but don't we at least have to consider what is happening outside the church's doors?

I think sometimes Lutherans (and other religious groups) are so grounded in tradition (with language, songs, how we hold our hands, etc), we become stuck. The rituals, words, and actions are so ingrained it becomes monotonous. Maybe it's just me...but I have an inkling I'm not the only one who feels this way.

So, my proclamation for today: I want to become unstuck.

Or maybe I need to shut up.

Either way, there's work to be done.

(Of course, I say all of this believing and trusting that the Spirit IS at work among us.)

Peace--
HGJ

Blogs I Like

I love blogs. I think they are one of the greatest things about the internet. They are way better than Facebook and are much more encouraging than CNN or world news (for the most part).

Everyday I check for updates on my favorites--many of them from fellow interns sprawled around the country.

I decided it was time to share them with you. Check out the left side of the page and you can click to new blogs.

You will find musings and pictures from New York to California and places in between, on surfing, ministry, bicycling, poetry, religion, outreach, even on operating vehicles.

Enjoy! I certainly do...

Peace. I'm off to the pool.

HGJ

So, I missed it...

I missed the first snow fall at home today. Of course, none of it accumulated, and it is expected to be back up in the 60s this week, but I have to say...

I kind of missed it.

Shocker...I know.

Undoubtedly, I am enjoying the sunny weather every day, but I always love the thrill of seeing the snow for the first time each fall.

It means my favorite scarves, mittens, and hats can officially come out. It means there's finally a chance for "snow days." It means the season for warm fires, hot cocoa, sledding, and snowman building is here. I also know it's the season of ice, falling, slippery roads, and shoveling, and I won't miss that, but I do know there's good to snow too!

I have many fond memories that included snow. Check out one of my favorite pictures (courtesy of ASM) with my some of my best seminary friends: Amber, Brian, and Scott.




Oh, winter. I guess I'll catch up with you after Christmas.

For now---
HGJ

Tortilla Flat: Population 6

Today was another day of adventure courtesy of our Gold Canyon friends, Keith and Shirley!

We traveled the windy roads of Route 88 up to Canyon Lake and Tortilla Flat. It is AZ's smallest official "community" with a post office and a voter's precinct.

.

The day was nothing short of wonderful. The temperature was perfect, the company was fantastic, the food was delicious (complete with spicy chili, cowboy burgers, and prickly pear ice cream--made from cactus flowers), and the views were spectacular. My mom compares its beauty to the Grand Canyon.

I could not think of a better way to spend my day off and to see more of Arizona's landscape.

Slowly but surely, the desert is growing on me :)

Oh, and plus, we had fun taking pictures with Shirley in the bathroom too:) It is quite the place if you ever get a chance to visit.

All in all, a good Friday!

Peace--
HGJ

This is most certainly true!

As I struggle to write my "learning service agreement" for internship and wonder what I have learned over these past two months and what I will learn over the next nine, I am not sure of much. Everything is mostly a blur. Sure, I can remember some things and people specifically, but not exactly. Every day kind of flows into the next.

But I do know this:

I like to be together with people.

I like to be in the company of others.

I like to share daily life with those around me.

I like to talk and to play games and even to laugh with real people better than I do with the people in movies or on TV.

And, I like to have family and friends close by (My mom is back for round two, and phone calls to family and friends are daily life savers!)

I don't like to be alone, and I don't like to come home to an empty apartment.

Now, if I can only express all of this to my candidacy committee and negotiate some things, I think my career in the ELCA might be well-lived.

This is most certainly true.

Be well--
HGJ

DailyTestaments

Some of you might know this, others probably not, but each day I name a "Hero of the Day." It's always a surprise for me to figure out who it is. Some days I have to look closer than others to find the person, but they are always there...working in both big and small ways. I hold all to be miraculous.

Today, I have multiple "Heroes"--from family in Osceola and Cloquet, friends in Minnesota and California, to the woman I brought communion to and the man I visited in the hospital...even the plumber who rescued my apartment this afternoon!

Anyone who says miracles do not happen anymore is crazy.

And now, I am off to make chili (I'm going through cold weather withdrawal, so turned the a/c way down and am rebelling by making cold-weather comfort food), and to clean the apartment because....a visitor is coming tomorrow!

I'm so excited.

All the best,

HGJ

Tennis with the President

Oh the joys of living in Arizona!

This afternoon I played tennis with the President...Our Savior's Council President that is. Even the 90 degree weather didn't stop us from playing.

I am not shy about my poor hand/eye coordination, but I had a blast playing with Doy. I even surprised myself...I was better than I thought I was. Sadly, I am not much competition, but I am proud to say I wasn't shut out! :)

I guess I'll add this to my to-do list while I'm here.

The other great news of the day: I got a wonderful package from home, and I don't have to go to church until tomorrow!

I like the weekends.

With joy--
HGJ

Hero of the Day: Margaret Mead

The challenges of change are things I have been struggling with for a long time. The more I witness & experience struggles in the church due to stagnancy and the idea that "well, we've always done it that way before," the more I am reminded how hard ministry is...at least the kind of ministry I am passionate about.

Some days it feels like a never-ending uphill battle. For some reason, this week has been full of those days.

When I was a sophomore at Gustavus I took a class called "Changing the World." It suited me to a tee. I loved studying, learning, discussing, and dreaming about expanding the potential of the world. I was inspired every day.

Today I found my bright green t-shirt from the class. I forgot I had even brought it with to Arizona. On the back of it, one of my favorite quotes is written:

"Never doubt that small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world; indeed it is the only thing that ever has."--Margaret Mead

I am reminded that hard work paired with intentionally focused and grounded people can make a difference.

Our world certainly needs change. And right now, I think the church needs to follow suit.

Best--
HGJ

Spirit of the Desert

I just returned home from Spirit of the Desert Retreat Center in Carefree, Arizona--about an hour north of Phoenix. It was beautiful!

All of the interns and their supervisors in the region gathered for our first cluster meeting. We spent time sharing stories, discussing issues that face our churches, and laughing. I have to admit I was a bit hesitant about going in the first place, but in the end, I am glad to have had a day away and time to connect with people my own age who are experiencing some of the same sort of things as I am.

We don't meet as a whole group officially until next spring, though we plan on running into each other at the Bishop's Convocation in two weeks.

The other great news is that next month our missional cohort is headed to Las Vegas for another retreat and coaching workshop. Road trip, anyone? :)

These small getaways are making these weeks a lot easier and more fun. Thank goodness!

Peace--
HGJ

PS...Here are some fun pictures of the desert landscape.

Polar Bear Swim

The meteorologists say the temperatures are almost 20 degrees lower than normal. However, they have been confidently assuring desert residents that by the end of the week it will be up in the 90s again.

I have decided that Arizona can't make a wuss out of me, so I decided to go swimming this morning.

So just after 7 am, I put on my normal swim garb--my swimsuit, shorts, tank top, and sandals and headed to the pool. On my way there, I watched kids go off to school and adults headed for work dressed in long pants, either sweatshirts or jackets, and closed-toed shoes. I even saw someone wearing a hat.

Here's what I found when I got to the pool area:

Still, I found the air to be refreshing, so I took a chance...and I had a blast!

It was a bit cold getting out of the pool and running back home, but it made my day. And it's not even 8:30 yet.

Take that, Arizona!

With joy--
HGJ

What's going on?!

It's colder here in Mesa than it is in Wisconsin right now.

No, I'm not confused. Yes, I said that correctly.

Who would've thought?!

Tomorrow I'm off to cluster meeting #1 at Spirit of the Desert.
I'm excited to see more of Arizona and to reconnect with other interns.
Should be interesting :)

Have a great week!

All the best--
HGJ

PS...Hoops & Yo Yo forever, right Popparone?

For the Beauty of the Earth

Happy Saturday!

So, for some reason, over the past few weeks, I keep getting the song "For the Beauty of the Earth" stuck in my head. The hymn has a memorable tune, but I can never remember the words. After a quick Google search, I realized there are LOTS of words in the song...there are six verses!

The first verse is this:

For the beauty of the earth,
for the glory of the skies,
for the love which from our birth
over and around us lies;
Lord of all, to thee we raise
this our hymn of grateful praise.

Good lyrics, for sure. And they are fitting for these photos I received from home today.


I sure wish I was back in Wisconsin today! Not to say it isn't nice here, but I miss Autumn and spending time with family on Saturdays like this.

And the exciting news of the week from the Johnson front: Walter Mondale is going to be at the ArtBarn tomorrow. My parents are so excited. I am too!

Now it's off to make lunch, although cooking isn't as much fun when you are only feeding one person. Thank goodness for leftovers :)

Peace--
HGJ

Sunny Side Up!

I just finished my article for Luther Sem's The Concord, and I thought I had better share it with you...plus throw in a few pictures!

Hope you are all well--

HGJ

Sunny Side Up

It was a year ago that I began dreaming of internship: of being out of the classroom full-time, of being in an unfamiliar place and spending time with new people, and of truly beginning to own my pastoral call as Vicar or Intern Hannah…whatever those titles meant.

I write to you now from sunny Arizona—temperatures in the mid-100s when I first arrived and now “cooling off” in the 90s—with six weeks of internship under my belt. Officially, I am the “Pastoral Intern” at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Mesa—one of the four churches part of the missional cohort in the Phoenix area. Our Savior’s is a unique church in that it is one congregation with three campuses, focused on mission re-development in the East Valley.

I have to admit I could not be more excited about this year. Each day brings about new adventures, whether it’s in planning worship services and coming up with new sermon ideas (workingpreacher.org is a lifesaver), visiting with the sick, spending time on Thursdays with the quilters as they tie blankets and discuss politics, leading the Men’s Bible Study (not many women get to do that!), or getting lost in the identical 55+ communities en route for communion visits, even with a GPS.

Of course, this internship also has its challenges. The transition to my new home 1,600+ miles from St. Paul and those I love the most was not the easiest thing. I miss seeing the changing of leaves and “Minnesota nice.” Often times, I am the youngest person by more than a few decades, and I fail miserably at remembering people’s names. Finally, the ever persistent pastoral work can be daunting day after day.

Still, I am reminded every day what a blessing it is to be here. I recently asked one of the members, “How are you?” His response was, “Things are sunny side up.” This rings true for me in both the literal and figurative sense. The sun shines brighter here than anywhere else I have ever been, and I feel such warmth and care from these people that I experience the living God on a daily basis. These people embody the notion that “faith” is not only a noun, but a verb. It is my prayer that I may return that blessing to them, knowing that the light of Christ is shining forever.

Sick

I love politics. I love to hear people's opinions on health care, the economy, education, foreign policy, taxes, the environment, and energy. I love to discuss with people what they think the "real" problems are and their solutions for them. (Didn't McCain just say he would tap into the smartest Americans for this?)

But for some reason tonight, I can't bring myself to watching the Presidential debate. It makes me sick.

Ok, I'm already not feeling well, but to hear both Obama and McCain take jabs at each other and to try to prove themselves to the world makes me nauseated.

As for the statistics they keep throwing around, do your research before buying into any of them. Seriously. Talk about manipulation.

Tonight I give up on this nonsense. This election can't come fast enough.

I guess I'll have to wait to read the news to find out how everything ended up.

Peace--
HGJ

PS...Is anyone keeping track of how many times McCain calls us his "friends?" I'd like to know the ending number on that one.