Good morning! I’m over the moon today to have the privilege of introducing you guys to my awesome friend, Jenn Petersen! She is the most amazing singer/songwriter I’ve ever met…not that I’ve met a ton, but even if I had, I’m certain she’d be my favorite. 😀
You can check out a few of her songs on ReverbNation, and read a couple articles she’s written on Worship Design Collective. (Also, if you look up her single, “With Us Now,” that’s my adorable baby, Smiles, on the cover!)
Anyhoo, she’s also a wonderfully whimsical friend and mentor, and she and her family recently took an incredible leap of faith and moved from Dallas to Manhattan because they felt God tugging on their hearts to go plant a church there!
Without further ado, here is my interview with Jenn:
1. Tell us a little about yourself in 140 characters or less.
Well, I love Jesus, my husband, my kids, people, music, and a sweet cup of coffee with great conversation. I’m learning what it means to listen to God’s voice in the midst of a busy New York City life.
2. Do you have any secrets for intentionally connecting with your kids in the middle of busy, crazy, or just plain overwhelming seasons of life?
I heard someone say this once, and I’ve tried to put it into practice (especially since they’ve gotten older): when your kids are starting to drive you crazy, it probably means you need some quality one on one time with them. I find that when I can have some simple face-to-face time and conversation with my kids, I get to hear their hearts more clearly. Maybe that’s simply going for a walk, or doing some window shopping, or going to Starbucks. But just by me stopping and focusing on them individually, I think they feel valued and heard. Those are two huge things for adolescents.
3. What’s your fall back dinner when you can’t think of anything else to make?
Now that we live in NYC, it’s a heavenly thing called Seamless. Hands down the best order-in app available. But a time-tested easy favorite in our family to make is the good ol’ Midwestern Tater Tot Casserole.
4. If you knew you were about to be stranded on a deserted island and could only take one book with you (other than the Bible), what would it be?
Anne of Green Gables (can I also bring Anne of Avonlea?). A close second would probably be Love Does by Bob Goff. Or Walking on Water by Madeline L’Engle.
5. If you could opt out of ever again having to help your kids with their homework in ONE subject, which would it be?
Math. No question. I no longer have any patience for it. 🙂
6. What’s been the most unexpected blessing from moving to a new city with your family?
I have learned so much about myself over the last four months of moving to New York. I am relying on God more than ever before, and I love how He consistently surprises me with little nuggets in conversations, the people He puts before me, and how He shows His love in unlikely places. I feel like I’m walking around with a new set of glasses.
7. Most importantly, how do you like your coffee?
My go-to Starbucks drink is a sugar-free vanilla soy latte. But I also have a husband who makes me a handcrafted Chemex pour-over most mornings. I always drink it sweet and blonde, just like my hubby. 🙂
Thanks, Jenn! I can’t wait to see what God does through you and your family! You guys rock socks! -Heather