Christmas Eve

Day 218 (Dec. 24th)

"Dude, I know you!"

Christmas Eve! I will admit I was pretty darn excited. Christmas came and went so fast this year. I mean, I still can't believe it's come and gone for the year. This Christmas Eve, I woke up late in the morning. Mom and I had to go to the mall, again. We had to pick up one last Christmas gift. I also had to get pictures printed at Superstore. Once we were done all that, we headed home.
I relaxed for the afternoon; watched television and stuff. I then got ready for the annual Christmas eve service at my church. I always look forward to that. I wore my favorite red dress and just left my hair to be all Taylor Swifty.
After the service was done, I went downstairs to say a merry Christmas to my friends. I ran into one Zack Davis, that I'd met several months earlier at Potential Impact. Apparently his family lives in the area, although he lives several hours away. It was so cool to see a familiar face!
Dad picked me up after the service and we drove to Irving Big Stop. It turns out that the restaurant there was close. So where did we end up going? McDonald's of course. The employees made me laugh as I waited to pick up our "food." They really do have the greatest staff there.
Once I arrived at home, I decided to watch The Holiday. Christmas tradition and all. It may come as a shock, but not long into the movie, I fell asleep. Ah well.

-Jessica Dryden

Christmas Shopping

Day 217 (Dec. 23)

"Boys are nothing but trouble"

I woke up on Sunday only a few minutes before it was time for church, so I decided not to go. Instead I prepared myself to go to the mall. Surprisingly, it wasn't that bad. I really thought it was going to be busier than it was. I had to do some last minute Christmas shopping that day. And by "last minute Christmas shopping", I mean I bought everyone's Christmas present on that day.
For lunch, we took a quick break and went to McDonald's. It was the first time I'd had a Big Mac in so long! After lunch I continued on my shopping spree for Christmas presents and by the time we'd left the mall, I had almost everyone's present. I was quite happy, I must say.
I went home and chatted with my best friend via Facebook while watching The Little Mermaid 2. I was exhausted from being at the mall all day.

-Jessica Dryden

Winter

Day 216 (Dec. 22)

"I dropped a breakfast burrito in my shoe."

Quite the beautiful day it was yesterday. One of the nicest days we've had here in weeks, I'd say.

I woke up late morning. Kaitlyn and I had made plans to go to the market at some point, but that didn't work out as planned. So I spent the morning not really doing much. I just hung around the house.

Around 3 o'clock, I went to over bestest friend's house. Since we're both off school now, we decided to hangout. And of course, a photo shoot was in order. 

The weather and lighting were both so perfect for taking photos. We walked around the view, taking pictures in the park. I think this photo is my favorite from the evening. My best friend is so gorgeous.

It was starting to get dark and cold, so we headed for home. Once we arrived at Tera-Mae's, we had some supper and then she drove me home. I love my best friend.

At home, I edited pictures and listened to Taylor Swift. Then I was feeling kinda Disney, so I watched The Little Mermaid. I never realized how ridiculous the plot line of that movie is. I began watching The Little Mermaid 2 but shortly into the film, I fell asleep. 

-Jessica Dryden

Young Adult Life

Day 59

"Oh I hope he's working"

Tera-Mae and I decided to go shopping for clothes at Frenchy's. I'm practicing young adult life; a life with no money.
We both managed to find some cute clothes. Then we headed to the mall, because there were some really good sales that day. After about an hour at the mall, we left and went to McDonald's. The one on mountain road, of course. We got ice cream, and it was delicious. Definitely worth the stomach ache.
                                                                             

-Jess Dryden

Farewell, Benjamin

Day 58

"Hey dude, stop taking my grass!"

I think it's safe to say Tuesday, July 17th was a sad day for all of us.
Tuesday was the last day most of us spent with Ben, our former youth pastor who worked at Riverview Baptist for about six years.
We (most of the youth group) went to Ben's house on Tuesday for one last BBQ, which we usually have at the end of summer. We went to the park down the street, had water fights (and grass fights), drank lemonade, and had one heck of a time together. Our last time together. </3

After everyone said their goodbyes, I left and went to the mall with dad. We drank tea, and went shopping for clothes. I ran into one of my best friends, Nathan! Like, this wasn't even planned. For someone who "hates" the mall, he sure is there a lot. After dad and I were done shopping, Kaitlyn, Nathan, Courtney, Jessica and myself went to see The Amazing Spiderman in the theatre.  It was a mildly entertaining movie, but it had a terrible ending. My rating: 3/5.

Nathan and I went in Court's time machine, uh, I mean car and we drove Nathan home. It was a pretty sketchy drive home because there was fog everywhere and then some cat thing ran across Nathan's driveway. It was actually the sketchiest thing.
Court drove me home, and I went to bed.
                                                                                                              -Jess Dryden

I'm Always in the Mood for Nachos

Day 57

"Well I'll be hornswaddled!"

Monday was the first time I've been to the beach all summer. It's kind of sad, really. We arrived at the beach around lunch time. I ate nachos for lunch! I <3 nachos.
I like the beach a lot. I mean, I'm not big on swimming but I like sand. And no matter how many people are at the beach, it's somehow always so quiet and peaceful. I also love walking in the water.
We stayed at the beach for  a couple of hours, then headed home to Moncton.
After we arrived in Moncton, I went to Tera-Mae's house to watch Napoleon Dynamite. I had not seen that movie since I was like, 10 years old. It was just as stupid as I remembered it to be. I suppose it was funny, too.
                                                                                               -Jess Dryden

Working Hard, Not Hardly Working

Day 56

"That's just 'cause he's whipped"

I went to Sunday morning church, of course. I went home to have some lunch after the service. Have you ever tried gluten-free egg mcmuffins? It's like eating cardboard and egg.
Around 3, I went to work at Maritime Idol. I finally got to work a coffee machine, which has been my dream for, like, ever. After I was done working, Styler came to get me and we went back to my house to watch a movie. Yep.
                                                                                                            -Jess Dryden

Becks!

Day 55

"Just let them go free and bouncy"

I went to the market on Saturday! But before I went there, I picked up a driver's handbook. I figure it's about time to get my license.
Upon arriving at the market, I went to see The Stams. Oh, how I miss working beside them. I didn't stay at the market for too long, because mom and I had to go get groceries. I did manage to get some gelato though. John makes the best!
So we went grocery shopping. I got enough boxes of fruit roll-ups to last me about 48 hours. I honestly have an addiction.
Tera-Mae came to get me around 7 PM because Becks was in town, and we all made plans to hangout. Becks is a camp counselor, so we barely get to see her in the summer time.
We all met up at Tera-Mae's house. We went to Bulk Barn to get snacks, and then we walked down Main Street that evening. I <3 Tera-Mae & Becks.
It was getting pretty late, so Tera-Mae drove me home, but not before we went to Taco Bell. Mmmmmm.
We were also going to go to McDonald's to see someone, but Tera-Mae drove to the wrong McDonald's. Oh Tera-Mae!
                                                                                     -Jess Dryden

A Quiet Afternoon

Day 54

"We just moved here from Ontario."

On Friday, my sister came to get me around lunch time. We went to Sobeys to get some groceries. Then K945 was having a mystery BBQ outside Sobeys, so we waited in line and scored some free tickets to Magic Mountain. While waiting, we met a girl who just moved to New-Brunswick a short time ago. She was from Ontario.
Ontario's a cool place. I'd definitely live there.
Anyway, after get our passes we headed over to visit Tyler at work. We then headed to a car repair shop place thing to get Styler's car fixed.
I left the car repair shop place thing around 1:45 PM, seeing as I had to be to work at 2. It wasn't too busy at work, so I mostly read.
                                                                                                   -Jess Dryden

In Love

Day 53

"I'm officially in love with Pinterest."

Yes, it's true! I'm in love with Pinterest. It's like, the best invention since pepperoni.

On July 12th, I went to VBS in the morning. It was great, as always. We were all in the kitchen, getting snacks. I got a glass of water, and I look away for a second and my glass of water becomes a swimming pool for gold fish crackers. The things my youth pastor does.

I walked home from VBS a little early because I wasn't feeling well. Once I got home, I had a nap and then decided it was time for me to get a Pinterest account. So I did, and well, I'm in love. I spent a great deal of time that night with Pinterest. 

                                                                                                         -Jess Dryden

Concert in the Park

Day 52

"What's a hipster?"

"Basically a hobo with an iphone"

I went to VBS in the morning. It was a good time, it was!
After VBS Britt, Tera-Mae, Daniel and I went to pick up some lunch. We went to Wendy's then, we went back to the church after dropping Daniel off at home. We ate our fast food, then I had to head home. I walked home. As soon as I arrived home, I started making cookies for the Youth In Action bake sale we were having in the park that night. I made tons of cookies while completing my afternoon chores.
Around 6, Jessica picked me up and her Kaitlyn and myself went to pick up the rest of the stuff for the bake sale, along with some ice for to keep the drinks cold. We arrived at the concert in Caseley Park. There wasn't a very big crowd, but we did manage to sell some stuff. Then Nathan showed up.
After the bake sale was over, Nathan walked me home again.
                                                                                                           -Jess Dryden

It's a Long Walk Home

Day 51

"Enjoy your cheese"

July 10th! It was a Tuesday. I was suppose to be going to VBS that morning, however I wasn't feeling too great. And since I was working that evening, I figured it best I stay home and rest. So that's what I did. I was feeling better after a couple of hours though.
I went to work at 5:30 PM. Right in the middle of work, Nathan called me and made me aware that he was coming to see me at work. He finally arrived like, half an hour before I was done work.
After I was off work, Nate walked me home. But before we went to my house, we we walked to superstore. While walking there, we ran into our best friends; the men wearing nice suits. We stopped to talk to them for a bit, and then went to superstore to get cheese. Unfortunately, they didn't have the kind of cheese I wanted so we went to McDonald's instead.
From there, it was about a 45 minute walk to my house. So we walked, and talked, and it was dark. After we finally got home, I went inside and Nate biked home to his house. Such a good best friend for walking me all the way home.
On a side note, I'm totally aware that my cat looks dead in this picture, but I assure you he's just napping.                                                                              
                                                                                              -Jess Dryden
                                                                             

Vacation Bible School

Day 50

"It says jews!"

VBS! I absolutely love Vacation Bible School. It's the week I had been waiting for all summer long.
I arrived at the church at approximately 8 AM, to help set up and stuff. Basically everything was already set up though. Britt informed me that I was going to be Tera-Mae's assistant for the week. VBS was from 9-12.
After it finished, Tera-Mae and I walked over to the church office, while singing Lion King songs. Tera-Mae had to work. Then Britt and Jordan showed up. We all hung out for a bit. Ben eventually arrived at the office, too.
After a while, they all decided it would be funny to post embarrassing things on my Facebook wall, and I couldn't get internet access to see what they were posting. Sometimes I think my friends are only my friends because they like to embarrass me. But I love them just the same.
Kaitlyn came to pick me up and I went to her house so I could use her trendy Mac to check what was posted on my wall. Then she drove me home.
                                                                                                  -Jess Dryden

Happiness

Day 49

"I'm the happiest girl in the world right now!"

I really was the happiest girl in the world on July 8th.
Don't get me wrong, it was a good day. Every day is a good day. Thing is, I don't know why I was so happy on that day. I just was. It's like nothing could bring me down; nothing at all. It was such a nice feeling. The truth is, I too often let things get me down.
Anyway, I didn't go to Sunday morning church. I did go to work from 2-5:30 PM. Like I said, it wasn't a really exciting day, but I was so happy. It was so nice.
                                                                                                            -Jess Dryden

Post-Birthday Parties

Day 48

"Pass the nachos?"

I'm always in my most indecisive state when I'm shopping for birthday presents.
On Saturday, July 7th Dad came to get me so I could go to the mall and get Kaitlyn a birthday present because we were celebrating her birthday that day. Since dad took time off work to come get me, I had to make this shopping trip quick. I was in and out of the mall in under twenty minutes. Pretty impressive if you knew how much time I spend at the mall.
I decided upon a tea kettle (because apparently Kaitlyn loves David's Tea now) and a movie gift certificate for a birthday present. A gift bag, a card and some tape; I was outta there.
Around 7 PM, Kait and Jess came to get me. We went to Kait's for nachos and cake! Britt and Court also came.
Britt had to go home after a while because she wasn't feeling well, but Court, Jess, Kait and I went driving around town. Of course, we did drive-bys!
We then went to Harry's Pizza to, well, to get pizza. It was delicious as always. By the time our pizza was ready, everyone was beat and we all decided to go home.
                                                                                                    -Jess Dryden

Chickens & Driving; Something Different

Day 47

"Let's waste time, catching chickens"

Well, from what I can remember of July 6th, it wasn't very exciting. I did get up to write a Facebook note sometime that morning, meaning I must have been incredibly bored. I probably played guitar, too. I remember listening to "It Makes No Difference" by The Band, and "No Surprises" by Radiohead. I listened to those two songs over and over again, all day.
Although, the evening was pretty exciting! Nathan invited Brittany, Kaitlyn and I (or rather, we invited ourselves) to go see his chickens.
We drove to his house and we went inside for a bit. Then we went to the backyard where there's like a little mini farm. We saw chickens!
Afterwards, we went to Britt's house. There were people there. We left Britt's and went to Kaitlyn's to get snack food, after leaving superstore. Then we drove around town. I had to be home rather early that night, so they dropped me home first, instead of Nathan.
It was just Netflix and I for the rest of the night.

                                                                                              -Jess Dryden

Birthdays on Thursdays

Day 46

"The Phantom of the Opera is here"

Thursday, July 5th was Kaitlyn's birthday.
Jessica came to get me that morning so we could run some errands. We went to Canadian Tire to get some paint, then we went to the mall to get Kaitlyn a birthday present. I couldn't decide what to get her, but Jessica picked something up for her.
We had a fast lunch at McDonald's of course, and then went to the dollar store. After successfully completing Jess' list of things to do, she drove me home.
Then in the evening, Kaitlyn texted me and ask if I wanted to hangout. I said yes, of course and she came to get.
Upon arriving at the mall, Kaitlyn and I ran into Brittany and Alyssa. Figures I'd run into Brittany Akerley at the mall. Happens ALL the time. Then I texted Myra (Britt's mom) and we went to see her! We also saw Justin, and Sterling. Gosh, basically the whole family was there.
We departed the mall after a quick stop in American Eagle to visit Jessica at work. We then drove to Nathan's house to pick him up.
Then we did drive-bys and went to Tim Hortons, while blasting Phantom of the Opera music. Nathan ordered timbits in a British accents. I think he really charmed the girl that was taking our order, because she gave us forty timbits when we asked for twenty.
Theeeeeeen we went to Britt's house for a bit. It was getting late so Britt came with us, and we drove Nathan home and then Kait drove me home. With another happy birthday I said goodnight and went to bed shortly after arriving.
                                                                                                        -Jess Dryden

Eat. Sleep. Preston.

Day 45

"I'll read it write away!"

My laptop and I have a very good relationship, and he doesn't like to be left alone. So I give up having a life, just to spend time with him.
I spent more time with Preston than usual on July 4th. I needed to catch up on some blogging. In fact, I think all I did was watch movies and blog on that day. I remember waking up really early, showering, and then going back to bed. Preston has really messed up my sleep cycle.
I also practiced my guitar and probable ate something at some point of the day. MLIA.
                                                                                              -Jess Dryden

Last Minute Plans

Day 44

"Girls and guys can't be friends!"

"Yeah, haven't you ever seen When Harry Met Sally?"

July 3rd was a Tuesday! A pretty great Tuesday, if I do say so myself.
I woke up at like, 6:30 AM. That never happens. I was suppose to have plans that day, but my plans never do work out unless they're last minute plans.
I stayed home all day. I practiced guitar for like, an hour. I'm really starting to like playing guitar.
Around dinner time, mom and I went to the mall because she wanted to buy some new clothes. I just wanted some italian soda, so I went to Second Cup. I was so happy to see Beatrice Campbell was working that day! We chatted for a bit, and she made my italian soda. (Thanks Bea <3)
I also went to Taco Bell that day, while mom was shopping. Pretty sure I actually have a fast food addiction. At least it wasn't McDonald's again.
                                                                                      -Jess Dryden

Weeknight Ventures

Day 43

"I'm not really a big fan of breakfast cereal"

Monday, July 2nd was an interesting day. Well, during the day was actually really boring, but the evening was pretty interesting.
Nathan asked me if I wanted to hangout. I said yes and an hour later we met at superstore. We didn't really have a plan, but that's pretty typical for us. We decided to go for a walk. We walked up and down the river front. It was such a nice night, and the weather was delightful.
Then we decided to go to McDonald's, because, you know I *never* go there. Seriously, I don't know why I don't already have a job there.
After eating food that will one day kill us, Nathan and I started walking again. We went to Dairy Queen because we were being eaten alive by blood-thirsty misquitoes. Then Henry and Thomas showed up. We all sat down for a while and talked, but I wasn't really paying attention to what was going on. Then we left and went to Thomas and Henry's house.
A few shorts moments after arriving, Thomas made a sandwich. I sat awkwardly beside him while he ate his sandwich and read the paper. He's. So. Cute.
We all hung out for a bit, then Henry took me home because apparently I have a curfew now. We saw a bear on the way home! Okay, it wasn't actually a bear. It was probably an over-sized cat, but it looked like a bear! It was dark, and I was tired. Yeeeeeeeah.
                                                                                            -Jess Dryden

Fredericton: My Second Home

Day 42

"Would you like to hear a poem for a penny?"

I spent Canada Day in my favorite place in the world; Fredericton. It's a beautiful place, it really is.
I woke up early July 1st and got ready. I didn't go to Sunday morning church because, well, it's a long drive to Fredericton. We left the house at approximately 11 AM. The main reason why I wanted to go to Fredericton on Canada Day, was to see Joel Plaskett. Unfortunately, I didn't get to stay and see his concert.
We arrived in Fredericton at around 2 PM. I was so excited. It had been such a long time since I'd been there.
We arrived at Officer's Square. The only bad thing about Fredericton is that there's never any place to park. Ever. But eventually, after driving all over the city, we found a place! I jumped out of the car and we headed for the bridge so I could walk over it which I do almost every time I'm in Fredericton.
Anyway, I did all my regular Fredericton stuff, then went to Officer's Square and got Greek food! It was yummy. Mom and I stayed for some of the music that was playing. There was actually a band playing, and the members were from Fredericton. They were surprisingly a really good band. I was impressed.
Then we went for a walk around town. That's all I really wanted to do at that point, because there were way to many people in the square. So, we walked around and saw some boys doing parkour.
Then some guy came up and asked if we wanted to hear a poem for a penny. I thought it was a pretty good deal, so I said yes. I liked his poem so much that I gave him a dollar.
Afterwards, mom and I went to a Bar & Restaurant to get sweet potato fries, and non-alcoholic drinks. I was getting exhausted quickly, so we left for home.
I was surprised that I didn't have as good a time as I thought I would, but I think it might have been because there were way too many people.
After a long, tiresome drive home, I watch a movie or two, and then mom and I went to see the fireworks. I must say, Moncton was looking pretty beautiful that night.
                                                                                                           -Jess Dryden

Hot Fuzz? Check!

Day 41

"I really hope I can get to Fredericton tomorrow."

From what I can recall, I spent most of June 30th trying to figure out transportation to Fredericton for Canada Day, so I could see Joel Plaskett. And you know, so I could go to Fredericton.
We also got Netflix on that day! I decided to cross a few movies off my list. I started with Hot Fuzz. Mom and I watched it together. I usually watch movies alone, but since it was a comedy I didn't really care. It was mildly amusing, but overall, it was a pretty dumb movie. Then, I started to watch Water for Elephants. It wasn't a terrible movie.
Not an overly exciting day, but still a good one.

                                                                                                                             -Jess Dryden

Magnificence

Day 40

"Look at the magnificence that is you"

Friday (June 29th), was such a good day. I didn't actually do much in the day time, but once evening hit, I was busier than a bee! Just before sunset, Steph & Tyler (also known as Styler) came to get me. Steph had just gotten something new for her camera. She asked me if I wanted to model, and I said yes. Where as you're used to seeing pictures I took, it was actually her who took the beautiful photo above.
I got to spend time with Styler, and I got a new profile picture. It was a win-win.
If you'd like to see more of her amazing work, here's a link:
http://www.facebook.com/recapturingbeauty

After photos, mom and I went to see Magic Mike. Maybe not the most appropriate movie. I don't recommend it, kids. After Magic Mike, I went McDonald's of course. I'm addicted. Ah, what a day.
                                                                                                                  -Jess Dryden

My Memory is Fading

Day 39

"You have a cat?!"

I really don't remember much of June 28th. It probably wasn't a very exciting day, to be honest. Based on my everyday routine, here's what I probably did:

Woke up late, skipped breakfast, listened to the song Boston, checked Facebook, and watched a movie. 

Also, I might have played guitar. I've been putting my guitar to good use lately, instead of just letting it sit and collect dust. In fact, I've been practicing daily! I'm not as terrible as I used to be at playing that thing. Although, I still have a lot of practicing to do.

I did spend some of the day editing, and posting pictures from the retreat. Also, Tera-Mae found out I had a cat. I guess I forgot to tell my best friend I have a cat, which is weird because the subject of cats has been coming up a lot in our conversations. She loves cats. 

                                                                                                      -Jess Dryden

Spiritual Retreat- Day #5

Day 38

"Hey I just met you, and this is crazy- squirrel!"

Day 5 of Spiritual Retreat (June 27th), the final day, was bittersweet. I mean, I was happy to be going home to my friends and stuff, but at the same time, I was going to miss spending time with my youth group.

We woke up, had a devotional, had free time, then packed and cleaned up around the cottage. We departed the cottage at around 3 PM and we had some car troubles but nothing too serious.

I was so happy to finally get home, and as shallow as it is, I was so happy to text. I really missed my phone, and Facebook and all the other things I went five days without. I know, tough life I have, right? Also, I went five days without listening to the song Boston. New record!

A couple hours after my arrival, Kaitlyn came to get me so we could do drive-bys. We drove all over the city trying to find Nathan, but no luck, so we went to McDonald's instead. 

                                                                                                               -Jess Dryden

Spiritual Retreat- Day #4

Day 37

"A gem for a gem."

Thinking all the way back to Tuesday, June 26th, it was a pretty good day. Well, of course it was! It was a Tuesday. I <3 Tuesdays.
I woke up fairly early that day. I remember that. It was raining, like it was pretty much all week. After breakfast, I went upstairs to put some finishing thoughts into my devotional that I was suppose to be giving that day. After I was done, we went over to the other cottage and I, uh, presented my devo. It was on worship, and I think it went quite well.
We had free time after that, so I decided to go for a walk in the pouring rain. Andy and Ben decided to join me. We walked up the dirt road and then turned back. On the walk back, we went puddle jumping. Then we went down to the lake to wash off our feet. I knew Ben was going to pull something and try and toss me and Andy into the lake, but I somehow cleverly avoided it. Then me and Andy, fully clothed, decide to jump into the lake. We were soaked from head to toe and my towel became my best friend. That was the closest I came to swimming all week. Everything good happens on Tuesdays!
To top off that perfect day, we had tacos for dinner. Then Tera-Mae, Andy and I did best friend surveys. It was such a great day.
                                                                                                           -Jess Dryden

Spiritual Retreat- Day #3

                   Day 36
               "In your pants"

I think Monday was probably my favorite day of Spiritual Retreat. You think it would have been Tuesday, right? But no, it was Monday.
It didn't completely have to do with the weather, but it was really nice to see the sunshine that day. People went swimming and I went and took pictures. Tera-Mae, MJ, Ben and I went for a walk to "heaven", AKA the farm up the road from the cottage. It's a really nice spot.
Then there were some conflicts that needed to be dealt with among the group, so we all came together and dealt with those conflicts.
Then since the weather was so nice, we had a campfire and set off fireworks. And we had s'mores, of course. I was wearing yoga pants! I'm officially in love with yoga pants.
We returned up to the cottage where we spent a good ten minutes arguing about the correct pronunciation of the word taco, until Tera-Mae came out and told us all to get to bed.
                                                                                                                -Jess Dryden

Spiritual Retreat- Day #2

Day 35

"And I can say welcome to the jungle"

Oh man, June 24th was a good day!

We went to Sunday morning church at Shannon Baptist. We always go there the Sunday of Spiritual Retreat . It's such a cute little church. And when I say little, I mean little. With our group of 20, we more than doubled the congregation. 

It was a good service though. They asked us to sing and everything. We hadn't really prepared anything, but we did "Father I Adore You" like we usually do when in doubt. 

After the service we went home and had some lunch. Afterwards, Tera-Mae, Ben and I went to pick up some fireworks. We also might have picked up a person, too.

So Tera-Mae, Nick, Ben and I went back to the cottage. We had an afternoon devotional on The Holy Spirit. We then had a short prayer and had dinner.

Then came my favorite part; quiet time. I love quiet time for so many reasons, but mostly because it's the only time during the week that everyone is actually quiet. Other than sleeping, but even then silence isn't guaranteed.

After quiet time, we had cheese s'mores. I know what you're thinking, but it's actually delicious. We spent the rest of the night talking about movies for my next list.

                                                                                                  -Jess Dryden

Spiritual Retreat

Day 34

"Hahaha, duties"

Meet Emma! She told me she always looks awkward in pictures..

I woke up way too early on the morning of June 23rd. I had to finish packing and finish up the devotional I had prepared for Spiritual Retreat.

Spiritual Retreat is a trip I take every year with my church. There's usually about 15-20 youth, and a couple of leaders. This was my sixth year attending. We go up to our youth pastor's parents' cottage for about 5 days. I was in desperate need to this trip. I just needed to get away from this crazy town. 

Saturday was a great day. We arrived at the cottage at around 3 PM. I amazingly didn't get sick on the car ride down. We had some time to get settled into our rooms and then we went over some rules. We had free time until dinner. After dinner, we had quiet time. I read my bible then dozed off into a nap. 

I woke up after like, two minutes and it was time for devo. Our devo was given by Tera-Mae. It was about preaching the gospel. We then had free time but I just went to bed. I <3 sleep.

                                                                                                            -Jess Dryden

Solitude and Sister Time

Day Thirty-Two

"That's like saying 14 is a year away from 15 which is half-way to 30, so everyone is grade 9 is basically 30."

It's been a while, hasn't it? My apologies for not posting, but I've been away for the past few days.
I spent most of last Thursday in solitude. I didn't really want to speak to anyone. I go through that every now and again when I just don't really want to talk to anyone. Last Thursday was one of those days.
So I spent the day editing Tera-Mae and Brittany's prom pictures. It took a while, but I was able to get them up on Facebook that evening. I've never received so many notifications in my life. Three hundred notifications later (literally), I decided it might be a good idea to begin packing for Spiritual Retreat. I started packing and then headed to bed.

                                                                                                               -Jess Dryden

Day 33

"Why do you hate me?"

I spent Friday with my favorite sister. She came and got me in the morning and we went back to her house. We did some Facebook creeping, email answering and picture tagging. Then she made us lunch on the barbeque; it was delicious.
I was also suppose to go help Tera-Mae prepare some food for Spiritual Retreat, but I was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
                                                                                                               -Jess Dryden

Let's Make a Getaway

                     Day 31

    "I feel my flesh burning with sin"

I took a little road trip on Wednesday. 

Kaitlyn and I decided to go to Sackville; not before we picked up Nathan, of course. We drove there, which took forever because of construction. When we finally got there, we took a walk around town to go see the swans. Then we went to Mel's to get milkshakes. We walked and talked and it was nice to not be here. On the way back to the car, we stopped in to see Kaitlyn's G-Ma. She's so cute and she's absolutely hilarious. She gave us homemade bread and cookies and then took our blood pressure. After saying goodbye, we drove back home. 

We dropped Nathan off and then Kaitlyn and I did drive-bys. And we ran into some people we know at Irving. Totally a coincidence!

                                                                                          -Jess Dryden

Oh, Prom!

Day 29

"Are you up, gurl?"

I don't really remember much about Monday. I probably spent all day in bed. I did go to work at 5:30 PM though! I remember that. I remember watching John Tucker Must Die at work. I have a bit of an obsession with that movie lately. I also remember my friends coming to visit me at work for a bit. 

After work I decided I would go to Tim's. I forgot they stopped serving bagels that late at night, so going there would be pointless. I decided to walk to Wendy's instead. On my way, Kaitlyn drove by and then kindly offered to drive me there. When we got there, I ate of course, and Kaitlyn and I decided to make a plan to crash prom. Probably the best idea I've had all week. Then mom came to get me. 

At 11 PM, Kaitlyn texted me and asked if I was still up. Of course I was, so she came to get me so we could do drive-bys. Worst idea we had all week.  But anyways, we indeed did drive-bys, then she drove me home. I then starting watching a movie and fell asleep. Pretty typical night for Jess Dryden.

                                                                                                             -Jess Dryden

                                 Day 30

               "I'll take you to prom next year!"

Oh boy! Tuesday was just the bestest! I told you Tuesdays are always great. 

Why was this Tuesday so splendid? One word: prom. Yes, the event every girl looks forward to all of her teenage years. No, I didn't go to prom, unfortunately. Well, I did actually. Let me just explain. 

I'm in grade eleven, so I only get to go to prom next year. I wasn't overly excited for prom, in fact, I wasn't even planning on going until Tuesday. This past Tuesday, I had the pleasure of spending the entire day with Tera-Mae and Brittany. I took their prom pictures. Seeing how excited they got for prom made me want to go so bad, and I made a decision that day to go when I'm in grade twelve. It just so happens I found a date, too. It all worked out quite perfectly. 

I absolutely loved spending the day with these girls. Going to get hair and make-up done, and then going to take pictures. They looked stunning, with their handsome prom dates. They've grown up so fast, and turned into such lovely ladies :') Love you girls <3

Anyway, Kaitlyn and I decided to crash prom. We managed to sneak into one prom, our school's prom, but we couldn't get into the other one. Which really kinda sucked because we could hear the music playing and it sounded like such a good time. Since we couldn't get into that prom, we decided to randomly walk around the Delta hotel and take pictures. I talked in a British accent so it would confuse people. Then Kaitlyn's mom needed the car, so with another failed attempt to get into prom, we went home and had pizza.

I actually can't wait for prom <3

                                                                                                 -Jess Dryden

Simply Great

Day 28

"If only I had a baseball bat....or some steel toe boots!"

Sunday was such a good day!

I went to Sunday morning church, of course. It was a beautiful service, and there was a BBQ afterwards. It was delightful! I love food. 

After the BBQ, I went home for a very brief amount of time. Out the door again as I went to visit dad at work to give him his Father's Day card. Then mom and I went to The Corn Crib because she had to go there for some reason. We then drove up to see my G-rents for the afternoon. Visiting with them was nice. I never realized that my G-pa was so funny. 

We took some pictures on the way home. And by the time I actually got home, I was exhausted. I spent the rest of the day editing pictures, and watching movies. A perfect ending to a simply great day.

                                                                                                         -Jess Dryden

Gummy Whales

Day 27

"Send the sharks down after it"

For the first time, I started to like Moncton. 

Saturday was an interesting day. I worked from 2-5:30 PM. Towards the end of my shift, Maddy showed up. Then Cameron because she was working the shift after me. We all hung out for a while, then Maddy and I caught a bus to the mall. We met up with Nathan (a little late) in the mall parking lot. Then I ditched those kids to go get some gummy whales. I love gummy whales. (They're actually sharks but whatever!). I found Maddy and Nathan eventually and we all went to Taco Bell. We ate tacos and stuff. So much for our plan to go Father's Day shopping. 

It was getting late so we started to walk home. We stopped in at Harry's on the way home. I kinda have a huge craving for Harry's Pizza 24/7. Unfortunately, we didn't have time to get pizza so we just kept walking. We walked and walked and walked for what seemed like forever. But it didn't take as long as I expected. Finally we got to R-View and mom came to get me. Pretty sure I was exhausted and went to bed shortly after walking through the door. 

                                                                                                         -Jess Dryden

             

Enchanting Evening

Day 26

"I was enchanted to meet you"

Friday was the best Friday I've had in quite a while.

I took two exams in the morning (Chem and Bio), which were my last exams. I was quite happy about that. So after my exams, Jess drove me home. 

I was so bored but thankfully Tera-Mae asked me if I wanted to hangout. Around 5 PM I met her at the church then we walked down to the R-View market. We ran into Henry there! He was playing guitar and singing. He's really kind of amazing at that stuff. Tera-Mae left and I went with Henry to McDonald's because I somehow always end up at McDonald's. It's getting a little ridiculous. Anyhow, we ate, well he ate and I had a bite of his ice cream because I wasn't all that hungry at the time. Then we talked for quite some time. I quite enjoyed our conversations. Afterwards, Kaitlyn came to get us and we drove Henry home. 

Since Britt was all the way in Hopewell Hill, we had to wait for like, two hours before we could pick her up. So we phoned Nathan and went to pick him up because he was super bored. Then we went to Joshua's house to see if he wanted to waste time with us. Unfortunately, he had other plans. We did a few drive-bys and then finally went to pick Britt up. We did more drive-bys and went to McDonald's. I spend so much time there. I should have a membership by now, or at least a job. We left Nathan at McDonald's for a brief amount of time, but we came back for him. 

We somehow ended up at Henry's house again. I don't know how that happened. 

Henry and Nathan both got in the car and we drove around the neighborhood. Then we all just sat outside his house for a bit and talked about random stuff that had nothing to do with anything. I'd say this is becoming quite typical for all of us. Then we had to go so Henry, Nathan and I got out of the car and my friends drove away without me because I was taking too long to say goodbye, apparently. But before they could get too far, Nathan started running around the vehicle so they couldn't go anywhere. "He looked like a dear in headlights".  It was such a good day because I got to spend it with my favorites <3

                                                                                                            -Jess Dryden

 

School in the Summer?

Day 25

"Wash that man right out of your sweater"

Today was most people's last day of school. Sad I can't say the same for myself. While my friends are chillin' at the beach and doing drive-bys, I'll be stuck in summer school. It's official. Turns out summer school is a real thing. I really thought it only existed in movies. The fortunate thing is, it's only for a month. So I'll still have all of August. Even though I'll be stuck in school during the morning, I'm so looking forward to summer!

Today was great, as always. I went to school, then Jessica and Kaitlyn drove Tera-Mae and I to the church. It was Tera-Mae's first day working there. I assisted her in planning a few of the events for the summer. Then Ben took us to Subway for lunch.

Eventually I went back to school so I could talk with my teachers about my horrible marks. Most of my teachers are pretty great, I must say. I'm really going to miss grade eleven, but I'm tremendously excited for my grad year! It's going to be so great, you know.

I should be off to bed since I have an exam at 8:45 AM tomorrow. 

                                                                                                   Thanks for reading

                                                                                                          -Jess Dryden

This Could Be the Start of Something New

Day 24

"It's not that our love died, it just never really bloomed"

It's been another great day. Had an exam this morning. Exam week is the only time you will ever catch me wearing sweat pants in public (unless I'm going to the gym) and even then I usually just change when I get there. Unfortunately, I don't think I did too well on my exam. School just really isn't going too great this year.
After my exam, Court drove me home. Then Ben and I went to lunch.
It's kinda sad because it was probably my last lunch with Ben, while he's still my youth pastor. It's going to be so weird not having him around. I went home again and then I went to work at 5:30. Dad picked me up for pizza afterwards. Second time I had pizza today.

I made a promise to myself today. I made a promise that I was going to get my life together. Get organized, do better in school, be a better person, and stop wasting time. I'm such a time waster. I'm real good at keeping promises, just not the ones I make to myself. But I really hope I can keep this one.
                                                                                               -Jess Dryden

Second Cup is my First Choice

                                Day 23 

                          "PAUUUUUL!"

I don't know what it is about Tuesdays, but they are always just amazing.

I woke up this morning and chilled around the house for a while. Then I walked to Maddy's house. It was a million degrees outside. You can't really tell from this photo, but I'm a little sunburnt. 

When I got to Maddy's, we grabbed some popsicles and when to the buses. Of course, we stopped at the ice cream stand to talk to Cameron first. We bused to Moncton and went to Wal-Mart where we met up with Nathan. We chilled in Wal-Mart for a while, then walked to Second Cup (which is waaaaaaay more than a 20 minute walk, Maddy!).

So like, 35 minutes later we were just about at Second Cup when some random boys in a vehicle yelled out to us "Girl! Girl! Girl! Girl!....." It was kinda weird. Then we saw Amy and Emily in Second Cup. What a coincidence! It was good catching up with them. I spent the rest of my time at Second Cup taking pictures with people. The cutie standing beside me is Thomas. He's, well, he's real cute!

After all the coffee (which I didn't drink) and good conversation, Peter dropped Maddy and I off in the small little town we live in.We walked back to Maddy's and her 'rents drove me home. 

Now here we are at the end of my night. It's been such a great day. I was so happy to see everyone since they just got back from America and all. Although, a couple of important people were missing this evening. 

I should probably be off to bed considering I have a Math exam tomorrow morning at 8:45. Or maybe I'll stay up and watch movies all night.

                                                                                                -Jess Dryden 

Chicken Toast

                      Day 22

               "Chicken toast!"

Once I move out, I'm buying a toaster, and stalking up on chicken toast. Then I'll be golden.

Today was a great day. I got to sleep in a little bit because my exam was at 11 AM. My friends came to get me around 10:30. We drove to school and I did my exam. I can say with confidence that I probably failed that exam. I'm really not too impressed with myself. I should have actually finished reading Oliver Twist. But, what's done is done and all I can do is hope for the best. 

After my exam I stayed in the cafeteria and read until Tera-Mae was done her exam. Then we walked to her house and had chicken toast! Yes, that's right! CHICKEN FREAKIN' TOAST! A little while after we had chicken toast, we went upstairs and Tera-Mae played a bunch of songs on her trendy new Macbook, so I could guess the title and artist. I thought I was doing an okay job until Tera-Mae's brother walked in and schooled me. (You're going down next time, Justin!)

Tera-Mae drove me all the way home but when I got to the door, it was locked and I didn't have my keys. So I got back in the van and we drove back to Tera-Mae's. We got out of the van and went for walk around the block. We had good conversation, as per usual. Then she drove me home again. Luckily, my 'rents were home this time.

So then, this American I know put ramen in his coffee because, well, I'm not really sure why. He's the coolest person I know.

I'm so looking forward to tomorrow as I may get to see my friends who just got back from America. And you know, it's Tuesday.

                                                                                                         -Jess Dryden

Summer's Coming

                                                               Day 21

                                                         "Awkwaaard"

Another great day. My Sundays usually aren't this exciting, though.
I went to Sunday morning church, of course. It was Grad Sunday. I couldn't hold back tears when they played the grad video. I'm so proud of our four grads! These four lovely ladies are becoming such Godly women. Watching them grow in Christ has been amazing. I can't believe I have to say goodbye to them in the Fall, but I know God will take plenty good care of them as they venture out into the world of adulthood.
Still, goodbyes are always hard.
Shortly after church, I went to a baby shower with mum and sister. Tina (mother-to-be) is due at the end of the month. She has the cutest baby bump ever!
Finally, at 5:30, I went to work. Nathan and Madison came to visit me. We ran into our best friends, who's names I've already forgotten that we met last Saturday. I don't remember anything unless I write it in my diary. Then dad came to get me and took me to Wendy's to get a salad.
It may not seem overly exciting, but I quite enjoyed it.

Oh! And Thomas said hi to me from America.
                                                                                                        -Jess Dryden