Yellow Card

     This is some version of my college essay. I think that it may sound a bit cliche and dramatic but that's what these essays are about. You have to follow a certain, unwritten rubric but also sound original. I mean if I have to do that to get into college I'll do it. Here you go. Enjoy this important story of mine that I wrote in college essay tone. 

     A word could not define me before she introduced me to this place. Each day passed without me knowing where I fit in. It was sophomore year and I did everything a normal highschooler would. I desperately tried to gain acceptance from my peers, please my parents with exceptional grades, and look like every other girl in the school. Everyone, including myself, attempted to figure themselves out in hopes of succeeding and obtaining even the tiniest tell into what their future might look like. Except I tried to be like everyone else because that is what I thought was the right thing to do. Actually it was the only thing I knew how to do. 

     Confusion and conformity describes myself from middle school up to sophomore year. Except my junior year things changed. September came and I met this person who changed my life in many ways that I never expected. We knew of each other but only because of mutual friends. Coincidentally we had all but two classes together that year. So in English class, when we got seated next to each other I learned a lot about her. She was different. She acquired that passion and singularity that I and seemingly everyone else I knew lacked. At first I thought that that she had been another friend I made out of convenience, but I realized that was not why I met her. I met her for a completely different reason and it all started with a yellow card she gave me. It had the address, time, and place printed on it. She even wrote her number, offering me a ride if I needed one. 

     She invited me to a church. I probably passed by it a million times and had no idea that it even existed. Little did I know that that building and the people inside of it would become a huge part of my life. After going for a while, something changed about me. I no longer conformed to the other high schoolers because I did not have to anymore. I found my passion in Christianity. Some people find their fire in sports,education, or music, but mine was found in a relationship with God. Despite my conformity, I still knew what I liked and did not like in life. Except when I went to church I finally got to understand what I loved. So I molded myself into my passion. I went to church religiously, I never missed my youth group service, and I took the time to know the people that shared the same love as me. I got to know the right place and the right people I could be myself around. I found my identifier, and was no longer a product of the place I called high school but the product of my own passion. All thanks to a girl who handed me a yellow card in English class. 

Description Of You.

     I'd probably compare you to a ray of sunshine because that's what you are to people. Whenever there's a stale moment you somehow lighten up the mood just with your presence. I never understood what it was about you that made you shine compared to everyone else. I would love to know. But sometimes your desire for constant happiness comes before others. You are generally a selfless person, but when it comes to what you want you become a little self seeking. Except I respect that because you can't live for others all the time. That's what you've taught me.

     It's so intriguing when you start to talk about something you really love, because even if I don't find it that interesting you make me want to listen anyways. You're eyes light up like a little kid, and it makes me smile everytime. You also somehow make everyone laugh. I don't know how you do it, and frankly I don't think you know either, but there is never a dull moment with you. That's why I love to have you around. I know that you are a loving person, but that tends to give you much pain at times. I don't know how you share your love so easily but it's something that I like. I don't think many people notice how much you care for them, but it's plain as day to me. 

     You're a mystery. I don't really know what you're necessarily thinking about most of the time, because you never let anyone know. Even though that is so, I still know that you must have so many thoughts going on in your head. You're smart, and the way you play it off makes me jealous all the time. You're very clever. I know you will be a successful person in the future, and I hope to witness that.  One thing that I love about you is that you're kind. You have such a giving soul and even though its not obvious, I know so. You're sweet and willing to do anything for those you love. I have witnessed it too many times not to notice.

     Many things don't make sense about you. You are a free, independent soul, but you also care about things going on around you. What people do, and what they think. You're free, but you're broken. Every time you get caught in a tough situation I get confused as to why you act the way you do. You've messed up a lot, but I understand why. You don't mean to hurt anyone but you somehow do anyways. Except I still admire you. You get excited about the little things and appreciate them. How you can find joy in such insignificant things is a mystery to me. You're heart, although broken, is still a loving one. Sometimes you love so much you don't seem to know what to do. But that's the beautiful thing about it.

     If there was a list of people who knew how to be a good friend, you would be at the top of that list. You seem to understand the dynamics of friendship so well, as if you created them yourself. You know that friends come first. Others have loved you, but you don't know how to love them. It's really a shame because there are so many people who have come to admire you, and I understand why because you're quite the character. But you seem to mess up or pull away leaving them confused. I know you don't understand the concept of letting yourself go, but I hope you will soon. As fearless as you seem, I know that fear beats you every time.

   

October the 13th: Testimony

     It's been exactly a year since my baptism. I can't believe that one year has already passed. It felt like such a short amount of time. It's weird, because I don't really know what to write about. So I think I'm going to talk about my testimony. How I came to know Christ. Basically the events leading up to my baptism.

     It was my sophomore year of high school and I don't think I exactly knew what I was doing with my life. I was kind of wandering around, trying to fit in like everyone else. I was going with the flow, but had no sense of direction. At least that's what it seems like now. Then I met this girl named D'Erika and I have a lot to thank her for. She's been my rock these couple of years I've known her. She went out of her way to invite me to Phoenix one day; though I think I kind of rejected her the first time. I believe I said "maybe," or "I'll try to come." But in my head I know I said that because I didn't want to be mean and say no. The reason I didn't want to go was mainly because I was really shy. I didn't even know D'Erika that well, so I thought it would be awkward. Not awkward because of the religious factor, but because of the social factor. Believe it or not, I used to be really shy. My friends who know me now, would completely object, but it's true. I always felt weird around people I didn't know. And I especially hated being in environments where I felt like a stranger. I was kind of a loser back then, now that I think about it. Thank God I'm so much cooler now. Well, that's debatable. So yes, I did end up going after a few weeks. I finally said, "what the heck, there's nothing to lose" and just went. I vividly remember my first experience at Phoenix. Pastor Matt high fived me, and looked so excited to see me there. D'Erika introduced me to her friends and they openly greeted me. I had never experienced something like that before. It was refreshing and frankly amazing to me. That's actually what brought me back the next week. At my old church I didn't really fit in. I know that sounds weird, but I felt like a stranger. And that was the most terrifying and dreadful feeling to me. And it was because of that feeling that I grew further and further apart from the church and my youth ministry. Sometimes I would skip the services, and just wander around the church waiting for my parents to finish their service. So you could say, for a long time I was lost. I read my Bible on Sundays and prayed every night but that was it. Nothing more. It was a routine more than anything. That burning desire to seek God was non existent.

     I've realized that the reason I couldn't grow as a Christian was because I didn't have a solid church family to guide me and push me in the right direction. Of course my old church was great, but it wasn't great for me. I used to think that it was myself who was messed up for not fitting in, but I realized that there is just a different church for everyone. I'm just glad that God used D'Erika to bring me into the Fair Oaks family. After a few months of Phoenix, I was baptized at Fair Oaks and a few months after that, I was a member faithfully serving every Sunday. And that's how this goes back to my baptism. It's been a year since my public declaration that I was a follower of Christ. I declared that I would follow him all the days of my life. And even after a year, I still promise to follow that. It's been a bumpy past year at times, but this day just reminded me of the promise I've made to God, and how important it is to keep it. Lately it has been hard to follow him with all of the distractions and stress going in my life. But I think that this stress has led up to this day, so that I can realize the joy I felt when I got baptized. I remember how happy and fulfilled I felt exactly one year ago. That's when I was continually seeking God, and setting my eyes on him and him only. Looking back, just reminds me how much more I should be doing to glorify God. I need to keep growing and growing, because I've come too far to go back to the way I used to be: lost and without Jesus.

In Honor Of Cara.

     I didn't know her that well. But I know many people who did. It's really a tragedy what happened. Taking the life of your own because living wasn't good enough. I'm very sorry that it happened.

     Cara was a junior at Fairfax. From the few times I talked to her I could tell she had a very outgoing personality that shined onto others. No one from the outside would have expected that she was in a bad place. I definitely didn't. To me, she seemed happy. She seemed adventerous. From the pictures she posted with her cross country team, it looked like she was having the time of her life making memories as much as possible. But I guess it's a lot easier to disguise you're inner thoughts than most people think.

     I only met Cara because she was a fellow FCA leader last school year. I remember she would always try to get people to join in on the games. She would greet people into the room so that they would feel welcomed. I appreciated that. She was a great leader of Christ and I admired her. I just  wish that I had got to known her better. Seeing as how much people miss her, just shows how extraordinary of a person she must have been. I'm sure it would have been a pleasure to be friends with her.

     I think that hardest part is, how much she will be missed. Friends and family are in so much pain and devastation. It hurts my own heart. Even as a person who didn't know her that well, I still feel the after math. I just want to wish those who were most affected my gratitude and respect. Especially her cross country team and family. No one really deserves to go through such tough times. But it's from those tough times we grow as people, and grow closer together. This morning, the moment of silence in the commons is an example of growing closer together. Almost everyone in our school wore blue in rememberance of Cara, and we had a moment of silence together as a rebel family. It was a beautiful moment we all shared together. It will definitely be stamped into my mind forever.

     Although it's a tragedy, it's comforting thinking that Cara will be up in heaven now, watching over us as we continue living our lives. It's bitter, but she's in a better place. A heaven without sorrow or any pain. She will be forever happy, and showered with God's eternal love. That's the one thing that keeps me going after all of this.

     So I would like to thank Cara for leaving such a positive impact on our school and community. It's amazing how you brought us all together. Rest in peace, we will never forget you.

Summer 2014 in 5 Minutes

     Three months in the making.

Link to the video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DObfhwhRvqI&list=UU2HFbLHYeQThfIWIdCTZW_A

p.s. I think the video is only working on computers for some reason

Blessed Beyond Belief.

     If you think about it, there are many things in our life that we have no control over. One being our childhood and the way we grow up. I was watching tv earlier today and saw a family volunteer at an orphanage in Thailand. It just made me tear up a little. I know that sounds really emotional and unnecessary, but I just felt really blessed. Blessed that I have luxuries they don't. It's really unfortunate that when we're children we can't decide if we want to live in a big house and/ or have all the toys we want. That's decided by our parents. And if you don't even have parents it's decided by whoever ends up taking care of you.

     I think in a way we are all really blessed. There will always be someone who is less fortunate than us. And it sucks because sometimes we have to think about that to realize how much we really have. Although sometimes I feel frustrated because I have to work harder than others to get what I want. But that's just out of comparison. I'm sure that there is another person who feels that same way towards me.

     Nowadays we all have this desire to be rich and plentiful. Have big houses and lots of money.

Lift Camp Video

Complied clips from Lift Camp 2014. Enjoy.

A Moment of Pure Bliss

     So many things have been going on lately in my life. Therefore I'll probably make an update post soon. But I thought that I would start with this one moment I had when I went to Kings Dominion on Friday.

 

     So as you already know, I went to Kings Dominion on Friday with my youth group. And I hung out mainly with my three best buddies D, Migs, and Austin while I was there. At the park, there was also a concert going on which had many Christian bands playing. So D, Austin and I went to see Sidewalk Prophets. They were amazing by the way. And that's where this moment of pure bliss played out.

 

     The song "Help me Find It" was playing (If I'm not mistaken).  And I was sitting there in-between D and Austin listening to the song. Then I started to look around just to see how many people were listening too. And that's when I saw some people in the crowd standing with their hands lifted high singing. That was the moment of pure bliss. I don't know what really happened, but seeing those few people raising their hands, singing along made me cry. I was actually crying uncontrollably for a few minutes. I was trying to hide it, but when D noticed it, I started crying even harder. It was very odd actually, but in the best way possible.

 

     The way I felt inside was complete joy. Seeing other people who love God just as much as I do, made me feel so good inside. Singing is one way of praising God, and that's what they were doing. Standing even when everyone else was sitting. Not caring about what anyone else thinks of them. It's amazing really. It's still really hard to put into words what I was feeling in that moment. I think that I was just overwhelmed with the beautiful sight of God's goodness. I had never really felt that way before and it was something special.

 

     I know that this all may sound a little weird, but I just had to write about this one moment where I felt so close to God. It was an insignificant moment to most people, but for me it was so much more. It shows how you can find such happiness in the little things. And because I know God, it was even better than any wonderful moment a non-believer has ever had.

 



    Take a listen to the song here

Jane Gets Her Wisdom Teeth Out

     Oh how great it is to get four teeth taken out! Try to count how many times I say OMG, and don't forget to notice how I'm an ugly crier. This if for your entertainment. Enjoy!

A Very Short Video & Some Prom Pics

                                                                                 

 

Juiet is a princess.

 

Everything is Okay, Okay?

     One thing that I don't like is when others feel sorry for me. I get that people get sad for me when things don't go my way, but I don't need anyone looking down on me. When you're in a tough spot, people tend to drag themselves down to your level and attempt to sympathize with you instead of bringing up you. Think about it: it's easier to feel sorry for someone rather than helping them out. It's simple as that.

     Life is tough sometimes. Not everyone has a loving family, is rich, or is popular. Especially as teenagers, there are somethings in life we don't have any control over. And that's why I can't wait till I'm an adult. But that's the whole point of it; learning to live with what you already have. So there isn't any need to tell a person how depressing it must be to have divorced parents, or no friends. Yes it's unfortunate, but saying that creates a sense of inferiority for the person listening. If you tell someone how sorry you are for them, it's portrayed like you're better. Or it makes it seem like they're missing out just for the sake of missing out. When in fact they can't do anything about it. And although that may not be your intention, that's how it goes.

     I can say that my life isn't that easy. And it's the same with everyone else. But that's my life. I can put up with the situations I am living with. It's a numb feeling because I deal with them all the time. I don't even realize what others consider "burdens" are actually burdens. Or "misfortunes," misfortunes. But when someone brings up how sad it is that I don't have this or that, it just makes me angry. And it also creates self pity that was never there in the first place. I'm sorry I don't have what you have. Except I'm okay with that. But not everyone understands. I think that sometimes people fail to realize it's not disastrous not having perfect families or a huge house. It's just how life is meant to happen. There's no negativity for the absence of things until someone makes it seem so. 

     Everyone wants to help a person out who's unlucky, or is going through a tough time. But not everyone needs it. Although I can really understand why people say they feel sorry. I mean if they don't, they feel helpless. And I even say that sometimes too. Except when those things are said, it's realized how we don't have everything good and sweet in the world. And that's what angers us the most.

    Sometimes we fail to realize that a listening ear is all that's needed for comfort. 

Four Clues Led Me Straight to You: Prom!

(Prom prom prom. Ain't that a fun word to say?)

     Hey guess what? Jane Yang is going to prom! So Will asked me to prom on Saturday. It was pretty great. I was sent on a little goose chase with 4 clues to find him. And that's how I got the idea for the title of this post. Pretty clever huh? Yeah I thought so. I'm a poet and I didn't even know it. So anyways, all of my friends were in on it and I had no idea. It was a great surprise and I'm happy that we'll be going together. Prom should be a fun night. So thanks Will for planning the best promposal ever, and making it awesomely awesome. It was very sweet of you. Seriously, that was a very well, thought out promposal. Oh and thanks to all of my amazing friends who helped him. I'LL SEE YOU GUYS AT PROM. 

 Jane Yang is now signing off with a bang.
(Wow no one can handle my rhyming skills)

Say Yes Juliet?

     Ayyyy, another one of my best buddies got asked to PROM!!! Yay for Juliet! So my friend Austin asked her to prom yesterday and it was great. He initially asked her over text (lame I know) but he redeemed himself on that day. Austin was actually pretty nervous though. Probably because he's homeschooled and has never gone to a school dance haha. But I'm glad he's going and I'll see both of them there! I hope Juliet felt like a princess because she is one. And I made this video for the both of them. I hope you guys like it!

Christine's Promposal!!!

 

     Just thought that this was the cutest promposal! My friend Stephen asked one of my best friends Christine to prom this Saturday. She totally had no idea about it. And I think that the fact she didn't know was the best part. Stephen and all of our friends had been planning for almost a month and it finally payed off. It was actually very adorable how much time and effort he put into this promposal. It's every girls dream to be asked in an creative way. Man, props to Stephen for doing that. I'm really really excited that Christine is going to prom with Stephen. I hope they have the best time!!!!!!!!!!!

     Seriously, promposals are the best time of year. 

Proud of You Migs

     So around the middle of my junior year, I met a guy named Miguel Salas (not salsa). And let me tell you he's been such a great friend to me and has been great company. It's a funny story of how I met him. He was always in my marketing class but we never really talked. I kind of got the vibe he thought I was annoying or mean, but I didn't really mind. Except one day we were in marketing and he asked his friend whether she knew about Hillsong United (an awesome Christian music group). Me being the creepy eavesdropper I am, said "I DO!" I think I caught him off guard because he seemed a little confused, but still excited non the less. And that's how our friendship started. It was weird because I somehow ended up sitting next to him later on, and that's how we really got close. I thought that Migs was the funniest, weirdest guy I knew (and he is). And that's what brought me closer to him. We just kind of clicked. Instant best friends I would call it.

     After being friends with him for a little while, I invited him to Phoenix (my youth group). And he said he would come, but he told me he had another youth group he went to instead. He either said he couldn't go because of that, or that he couldn't make it. And I understood. But I got the vibe that even though he went to youth group and church, he was still a little shaky in his faith. And that isn't a bad thing at all. I mean everyone starts somewhere. I used to be just like him. So that's why I made it my goal to bring him to Phoenix at least once. And what do you know, he came one week and then kept on coming. It was amazing how he fit in so effortlessly. He came to Phoenix week after week, and then soon enough came to church with me and my friends on Sundays too. 

     It's crazy how much Migs has grown in his faith in such a short span of time. He first came to Phoenix on March 1st, and has been coming ever since. And throughout a 2 month time span, he has already surrendered his life to Jesus, brought other friends to Phoenix, come to church with me every week, and even help me teach the kids on Sunday afternoons. I don't know about you, but that's amazing. I mean I know people who have gone to church for years and hasn't even done that much. And the greatest thing is, that I can tell that he is actually learning more about Jesus and the Bible. His relationship with God is now the most important thing to him, which is exactly how it should be. He used to simply learn about God, but now he's living for him. And that's one of the most beautiful sights to see. Watching someone grow in their faith right before your eyes. 

     Miguel has thanked me multiple times that I brought him to Phoenix, and introduced him to everyone there. And I feel so flattered when he says that. But It's all God's works that got him where he is now. God specifically used me to bring Migs closer to him. It's actually an honor, and I am so blessed. God used me. A minuscule percentage of all the people in this world. Me. And I know that God will use Miguel to bring another person to Christ as well. And let me tell you, seeing someone grow and become more involved with their church and community, is the single most rewarding thing. I am glad I got to witness that. And I'm excited for Migs to experience the joy of seeing someone grow like I have, and still am.

    I know for those unbelievers that this may sound like some mumbo jumbo but its not. It's completely real. For those who don't really know God, don't you think that it's more than a coincidence that I heard Miguel talking about Hillsong that one day? Or that I somehow got to sit next to him and know him better? Most likely no. Whether you know God or not, I know you can still believe that certain people are put in your life for a reason. That's just a basic philosophy. You don't need a relationship with God to know that. But it's who you give that credit to which matters. I give the the credit to God. I know that he placed me in Miguel's life someway somehow for a good reason. But if you don't believe in God, then who or what do you think brings these life impacting people into our lives? The Easter Bunny?

     Anyways, thank you Miguel for being a great friend, and actually acceping my invitation to Phoenix. I'm glad that you didn't regret it. 

-Janey

Beautiful Minds and Beautiful Hearts

     So a few hours ago, I got back from a Christian based camp called "Jill's House" with my Phoenix friends. It was a camp especially for children with special needs, and let me tell you it was a heck a lot of fun.

     So when all of us got to the camp, we were assigned a camper, and were their buddy for the weekend. Me and one of my youth group leaders, Tracy, got paired up with a boy named Johnny (That't not his real name but it's for privacy reasons). He was around 14 and had some intellectual disabilities as well as autism. But he had really pretty, blue eyes and tiny freckles all over his face. He also loved the book Tarzan, which was ironic because I am technically in the story haha. It was really cool to meet him for the first time, but it was really hard to communicate, because he was nonverbal. We did many activities with the kids, but it was difficult to get Johnny to do any of them, because he didn't really understand some of them or didn't like them. And he tended to hit a little if he didn't get to do what he wanted to do. Until the middle of the second day, Tracy and I had a hard time controlling Johnny. But on that second day, we discovered something new about him. We found out that he really enjoyed to take out our hair ties from our hair, and then tell us to put them back in our hair. He also liked us to tie his hair with a hair tie too. It sounds kind of odd, but I could tell that he really liked it, and it made him happy. And he was so gentle about it. He took the hair tie out of my hair slowly and carefully so I didn't get hurt. It was actually really crazy how good of a memory he had though. Even when there was around 5 different hair ties, some even the same color and from different people, he knew exactly which was whose.

     After getting to spend the weekend with Johnny, I've realized that he has taught me so much. He's taught me to be more patient with people. I am not a patient person at all, and so in the beginning I was really frustrated with Johnny and how he couldn't communicate verbally. But I ended up learning to understand that he needs more patience and love. And instead of communicating verbally, I got to use a lot of sign language which was probably the coolest thing ever. But the patience doesn't only apply to kids with special needs, but with everyday people in my life. And another thing Johnny showed me, was to be happy no matter what. I know that he wasn't always the happiest person but a lot of times he was. Johnny would have these random bursts of happiness, or smile because I tied his hair up. His laughs and smiles were so genuine, and I don't think you could find that anywhere else. Just the way his eyes lit up was really a beautiful sight.

     It's so amazing to think that these kids are still so happy with their lives even with a disability. I mean we are always complaining about how unfortunate our lives are, even though we are blessed with a healthy mind. Yet the kids who go through obstacles everyday because of their special needs, are able to see the good in so many things. They live lift to the fullest, and take good advantage of it. And even with their learning disabilities, in the end their special needs are exactly what they are: just special needs. I know that their diagnosis' can challenge them, but I find that it's just something they have to deal with, just like normal people. And we all know that they don't acquire the skills normal people have, but they may also have skills we can't ever have. They're a model to us and how we should lives our lives; being thankful because you're blessed. And that's why God made them the way they are. Except so many people don't understand why these disabilities exist. And they need to know that God made everyone the way they are for a purpose. He created these kinds of kids so that God's glory could be shown through them. And I witnessed that this weekend. In a sense it's a blessing.

     I just wanted to thank Johnny for teaching me so much, and making my weekend great. I have never seen such pure joy in anyone I know. He's made me see the world in such a better perspective. And I also thank all of the other kids at Jill's House this weekend too. Because of them, I've realized that there are so many good things in life to appreciate, that there isn't time to do anything else.  And if they can be happy with disability, then I can be happy without one.

A Man Born Blind 
"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the works of 
God might be displayed in him." -John 9:3

-Janey

 


   

I'm Moving?

     I'm really sad to say that I'm probably moving soon...back to Louisiana. So my parents like Fairfax, but a lot of my family lives in LA including my grandma. She's really sick and has my grandpa to take care of her, but it's hard because he has a small job to do on the side. He manages a family restaurant (Chang's BBQ). I mean my grandma isn't the prime reason we might move. My family also likes the atmosphere of the south better. I mean honestly I do too. In Fairfax it's a little too busy and lacks a lot of culture. In LA, there's Cajun food, beignets, crawfish, Mardi Gras, and most importantly southern hospitality. My family and I love it there because there's so many unique places and people are just more nice. You will actually have a conversation with your cashier there. And people will offer to help you unload your car. I remember one of my neighbors there brought us fresh fruit from her backyard like every week. And my other neighbor gave me and my bros an Easter basket with candy. I've never had such awesome neighbors before. Anyways, so yeah me and my family like it better there a tad bit. And it's sad I'll have to leave my friends. That's the one thing that makes this hard... Well I guess this is probably goodbye Fairfax. It's bittersweet but I guess I'm okay with it. I'm used to being new. Until next time. 

-Janey

Oh yeah and umm April Fools. Ha did I get you? Probably not. But I didn't prank anyone so I had to get at least one joke in last minute. It wouldn't feel right if I didn't. Yeah so I don't have a grandma in LA and I have never heard of Chang's BBQ. If you found that believeable you are racist... Just kidding, why wouldn't you belive it? But other than that, everything else was true. I do like the atmosphere better in LA. But the people I know in Fairfax make living here a little more bearable. I would love to move back to my old house with the awesome trampoline, but that's not going to happen. And I do like it here. So no I'm not moving. You guys will continue to see me walk the halls of FHS. 

    Chivalry is Pretty Much Alive Dead (And So are Manners)

Chiv·al·ry 

 noun \ˈshi-vəl-rē\:  an honorable and polite way of behaving especially toward women.
Man·ner
 noun \ˈma-nər\: a person's outward bearing; way of speaking to and treating others.

     So opening doors and allowing ladies to go first may seem to be overrated nowadays, but no it should still exist. I can't tell you how many times I was the one who opened the door for everyone even when there was a guy present. Don't get me wrong I actually love to do it. It's weird because I am kind of obsessed with manners and stuff like that. And I'm not complaining about me physically opening the door, but the fact that some guys don't make an effort to do it at all is what bothers me. I think that the simple idea of treating a lady like a lady or even people like people is something that should never grow old. I mean if guys think that they are so manly then they should live up to it. (And this doesn't apply only to boys but also girls). I've seen so many guys just worry about themselves instead of being considerate of their "girl" friend. Not a girlfriend girlfriend, but a "girl" friend. Well I guess it could be a girlfriend girlfriend. Anyways, I'm not trying to bash boys or men, it's just that chivalry isn't that popular anymore. And sorry if any boys are offended but sometimes you guys act... well like boys. I mean girls love it when y'all are polite. Hey, you might even get a girl just by holding the door for her. I COULD HAVE JUST HELPED YOU FIND A WOMAN. You're welcome. 

     So manners. Yep that is slowly dying as well. Many people who know me probably know that I don't like rude people. Or rude strangers to be more exact. I just think that the idea of not having manners is preposterous. Like a little while ago, I was at the movies and my friend just kept spilling popcorn everywhere so I told him to be careful. Then he just kept on throwing popcorn on the floor on purpose. He said that there are people meant to clean the mess so who cares? I guess this situation would fall better under the idea of being considerate, but that is an aspect of manners too. So alright I understand that there are people who are paid to clean the mess up, but why would you make a mess on purpose? Like seriously. I mean I doubt that the people who clean up at the movie theater love doing their job. Why would you want to purposefully make their job any harder? And even after the movie, I picked up our popcorn bag to throw away, and he told me to just leave it on the floor. I said no I'll throw it away, but then he asked why? I guessed he felt bad after asking that because then he said he would throw it away. But I said no and that I would. And that kind of went back and forth for like thirty seconds. A very awkward but tense thirty seconds at that. (Nothing personal against my friend btw). Being considerate, that's all I ask. Even a simple thank you just shows that you respect people. Don't you want others to respect you? I mean when people don't have manners, it just blows my mind. Brain splatter everywhere. 

     I really really love it when people are simply nice to others. It just shows that they actually care about someone other than themselves. Don't get me wrong there are plenty of well mannered people I know but there are also some that aren't. And I'm not always nice to everyone either. I can be a jerk sometimes too. I'm not trying to be Jane the innocent or anything. But if you are considerate and respectful towards other, I pretty much love you. Thanks for keeping chivalry and manners somewhat alive. 

-Janey 

D'Erika.

    So today I'm going to blog about my best friend D'Erika. I feel like she deserves to be blogged about since she is a big part of my life. So I first met D', sophomore year of high school. I used to be a pretty shy person, until I became friends with her (And that's a good thing). Somehow we had all but two classes with each other. I mean that's pretty crazy right?! And since we had almost every class together, I think that we were bound to be best friends. It was a sign from God, I'm telling you. Haha ha h....

     D' is one of the few people in my life that I have ever really opened up to. Believe me, I am a pretty secretive person at times. I just don't really like talking about myself personally. I can't really describe why. I'm like a book with faded pages. You can kind of read into me, but not that easily. Wow Jane that was pretty poetic of you. *snaps for Jane* And now you're talking about yourself on a blog post about your best friend. Ok let me get back on track... So yeah, I find it really comfortable to talk with D about what's on my mind. And that's something really really valuable to me. Although sometimes we may be too comfortable with each other... I won't really elaborate on that.

     As you probably have read in my last post, I am a pretty proud Christian. And I owe a lot of that to D'Erika (And God of course). If I had never met her, I would have never gone to Phoenix and get saved. I can't thank her enough for that. Ever since the first time I've gone to Phoenix, nothing has been the same. But in a good way of course. And what really reeled me into the whole "church" thing was due to how passionate D' was about her faith. I was really inspired by her and what she did for God.

     Honestly, I've never really had a friend like D' before. Even a best friend at that. I've always had "friends," but never someone who I was extremely close with. I know that sounds lame but it's true. I guess I just found it really hard to completely connect with another person. But for some odd reason, I got along really well with a girl who has a cool name. So D' is probably the most motivated and headstrong person I know. When she want's to do something, she wont quit until she's accomplished it. For example, she recited the entire chapter of Romans 8 in the Bible. That's 39 verses... She's like Barney Stinson from HIMYM. When there's a challenge, she accepts it. Challenge accepted. But seriously, that's a really difficult thing to accomplish. Other than motivated, she's also really caring and knowledgeable too. When I need help, she's there to pick me up. And I know she'll always listen to me when I need advice. Oh and btw she has really awesome advice. Haha. I can't even remember how many times I've felt better or made a right decision based on just the words that came out of her mouth and her actions. She even took me out for dinner once and got ice-cream because I was trying to get over a guy! Let's just say after that, I built a bridge, and got over it. I'm pretty sure she deserves the bestest best friend award, although that doesn't really exist. What the heck it does now. Jane Yang just created an award. Mark this day in  history people.

     So I just wanted to thank D' for being a great best friend. Words can't fully describe how thankful I am that she's in my life. She has really influenced me to just be a better person. She's done so much for me and I can't ever repay her enough. Her and her family are very dear to my heart and I love them so much. I've never really known what it was like to have someone there for me all the time, no matter what. But ever since I met D'Erika, I've never been alone. Wow I sound like a loser but who cares. So thanks D'Erika for being an amazing friend. I love you and hope that we can stay friends and make more inside jokes in the future because they're fun.

-Janey

I Was Sixteen Now Going on Seventeen

Friday at Chipotle

     I have finally turned seventeen today! (Well I started this draft on the 16th) Woah I feel so old now. I'm one year away from being an adult and having actual responsibilities. How scary. So far my birthday has been amazing. Well really my birthday was celebrated over this whole weekend. On Friday I was totally surprised by all of my wonderful, amazing friends at Chipotle. D'Erika got everyone to come and surprise me there. At first I didn't really know that everyone was there. The first person I saw was Will and I just assumed he was there to eat food too. But then I saw Glenn and everyone else and I finally understood what was happening! It was actually the best day ever. I spent the night with good company, frozen yogurt, and some apple pie. Oh and thanks Austin for the pie. It was pretty clever of you to buy it since it was pi day. So anywayssssss, we all played hide and go seek. Well Glenn, D'Erika, Will, and I just kind of talked for a little while since no one seemed to be looking for us, while we were playing. I really enjoyed the four of us talking because I got to spend more time with them than I usually do. Seriously we all need to talk again cause it was awesome man. A little while after that, everyone kind of met up again and we just talked until we had to go home. That was probably the best day out of this whole year so far. I had so much fun with everyone. Thank you D'Erika for getting everyone together just for my birthday. It means a lot to me. And  thanks to everyone that came. You guys are the best! 

Living it up at Toys R Us feat. Juliet

Saturday at Phoenix

     On Saturday I spent the day at the mall, Toys R Us, Target, Phoenix, and corners. So first I went to the mall with Juliet and we bought some stuff. And them we went to Target and Toys R Us. Juliet and I talked about our childhood while trying to ride the incredibly tiny bikes and skate boards. That was actually a lot of fun and I got to catch up a little with Juliet since I haven't really hung out with her one on one. Then I went to Phoenix which is where I always go on Saturday nights. It's pretty much the best place ever. I haven't missed a week since February of 2013. That sounds kind of sad, but there is something about praising God and learning more about him that makes me feel joy. I know that idea is sometimes hard for people to understand, and that's why I think that they should come. You have to start somewhere. Sorry I digress. Anyways, at Phoenix I was surprised with a giant cheesecake filled cake which was awesome! D'Erika tried to make it a surprise but I ended up waiting in front of everyone for a long, awkward time haha. But still thanks D'Erika and the Arboledas. You guys even made pasta for Phoenix because it is my favorite food! So after Phoenix, I went to the usual place where we all hang out: Fairfax Corners. We played hide and go seek and it was really fun. Miguel was there! P.s. Migs, I'm really glad you started coming to Phoenix and now hang out with me and my friends. I love it when you're there. 

Snow Tramps?

#selfie 

     Sunday, the day of my birthday, I went to church and taught the 5th and 6th graders about JESUS. It was great spending my birthday with them. They all knew it was my birthday and they sang to me! I love spending my Sunday afternoons reading the Bible and playing games with them. But besides that, a girl in my class named Jordan got baptized!! And it was on my birthday!!! Her "birth" day is now on my birthday. It was such an awesome thing seeing a young girl make her faith public. I was so proud of her. After church I went to Austins house with D'Erika, Geni, Christine, and Thomas. It was really fun because we all jumped on his trampoline while it was snowing. Oh and his home schooled friend Will was also there, and he seemed nice. He joked a lot about public school kids like we joke about home schooled kids. It was funny. He was cool but I'm not sure he really liked me. He couldn't even remember my name. How rudee! Haha well later on we all found out that there was no school which was the best news ever! So basically that was how my birthday weekend was like. I spent it with all of my friends over a span of three days. It was the most legend wait for it dary weekend of my life. Again thanks for everyone who was there. I love you guys a lot. And now that I'm seventeen, I can watch rated R movies. Woo!!!

-Janey

Introduction, Phoenix Anniversary, and Broom Ball

   

        D'Erika Arboleda Photography     

Welcome to my blog: janeelizabethyang!

So today is 2/23/2014, and I've decided to make a blog and write about whats happening in my life. But first let me tell you a little bit about myself:

     So my name is Jane Yang, but my close friends like to call me Janey, Jane Yang Bang Bang, or Yuna Kim (only applies to Austin P.). To be honest I really love it when people call me Janey. So if you're one of my friends reading this, keep that in mind. There are many things that I love in this world, but one of the top three would have to be Jesus, Psych, and Forrest Gump. First of all, I love everyone at my church and youth group. I've never met such amazing people in my whole life. I pretty much spend 8 days out of the week either at church, or with people who go to my church. I know for some people that may seem weird or a waste, but I find that I'm the happiest then. My favorite show would probably have to be Psych. But I also like HIMYM, Monk, The Following, Breaking Bad, Lie to Me, Body of Proof, Bones, Gossip Girl, One Tree Hill, Criminal Minds, Masterchef, etc. I think you now get that I really love T.V. shows. I just really love how they're so long. I especially like ones with crime. Psych is probably the best one. I know Tommy would agree with that. "You heard about pluto?" And for anyone who doesn't know what Psych is, here's the theme song.

Did that blow your mind or what? If it didn't then watch it again. And again. And as for Forrest Gump, well enough said. That movie was the most amazing creation ever. Forrest Gump taught me that life is like a box of chocolates and that shrimp is good. Oh and of course to never stop running when someone is trying to chase you down. So those are some of my favorite things in the entire world. I also really like Mumford and Sons and cookie dough ice-cream. Wow ice cream is the best. Butttt I cant forget all of my friends because I love them too. Well my closest friends are D'Erika, Christine, Juliet, and Genesis, oh and of course Emma. We all usually get along and try to deal with each other. But I'll talk about them later and you'll probably see them in my blog a lot. Oh and I really really really love puns, jokes, and cheesy pick up likes. There's no better way to a girls heart than a cheesy pick up line. So if you are punny and cheesy, chances are that I really like you. Well not like that. Or like that?

    SOOOOO yesterday was my one year anniversary at Phoenix and I've never missed a week!! Wow one year has never felt so short. So yesterday the whole phoenix crew went to the ice skating rink to skate and play broom ball. So on the bus I sat next to Quinn. I didn't really talk to you Quinn, so sorry about that if you're reading this. Just thought I would get that out in the open. So I was with D'Erkia, Zeke, and Silas for most of the time. They're a group of fun. Oh and p.s. D'Erika is my best friend for anyone who doesn't know. And Zeke is my new friend I just recently made. I never talked to him before like ever. I thought that he thought I was weird. But that's first impressions for you. Anyways, Zeke you are pretty cool and I'm really glad I got to meet you...A year after I've been going to Phoenix. You're actually surprisingly weird and outgoing. But in a good way. So Silas is one of my other best friends at Phoenix. He's really loud but veryy funny. Goodness I've never met someone like him. And that's a good thing. Anyways we played tag for a while and that was really fun. D'Erika fell a few times which was extremely funny. And Zeke tried to do some tricks and failed a lot. But that's okay. Silas, well lets just say he fell a lot. Ohh one thing that happened that was very embarrassing was that Austin Park. was telling people that the worker there had a thing for me! FYI Austin I totally had a crush on him. I was so blown away I forgot his name. hahaahaha do you get it? And D'Erika was trying to get his number?!!!! This is what I deal with people. Just kidding though cause I love you D. Well that's pretty much what happened. A lot of people fell and we ate some pizza afterwards. I have to take a shower so I have to cut this short. Sorry if anyone thinks this blog is already boring. This is what happens when I have nothing to do on a Sunday night. I will try my best to make it more entertaining. 

-Janey