Breaking the Ice: Getting to know me beyond the Basics

I figured my first post should be a sort of get to know me type. Who’s behind that keyboard? Who is this Jordyn character, anyway? So here goes…

I’m a software engineer by day, working for a fruit company on the accessibility team. My most sincere passion is enabling people of all abilities to live productive and independent lives, and my work on the VoiceOver screen reader and Braille support gives me great fulfillment and joy.

I’m a foodie, avid book worm, lover of podcasts and music, and a NOVICE pianist by night. Nothing says “key to my heart” more than Oreo cheesecake, Secret Breakfast ice cream, chocolate gummy bears, guacamole, or a steaming plate of pasta carbonara with extra bacon. I have two darling kitties, Ava and Bee. They are domestic short haired cuddly monsters. The loves of my life.

My favorite podcasts right now are Getting Curious With Jonathan Van Ness and The Moth.

Oh wait, did I mention I am completely blind? I was born 15 weeks early, weighing only 1 LB, 9 OZ. My grandpa could hold me in the palm of his hands. I am nothing short of a MIRACLE! God has called me to do great things, and I honor Him and glorify Him in everything I do. My blindness is just a characteristic. It has never defined me, or my goals, hopes, and dreams for the future. But now you know… Get ready for some awesome blind humor!

Beyond The Basics

I’m a sucker for ice breaker questions. I just love them! I’ve answered a few below. I want you to know me, beyond just the basic stuff. Post an answer to one of the questions below in the comments! Let’s get to know each other.

What message would you put on a billboard that thousands of people would see every day?

You are loved. You are here for a reason. Be brave. Be courageous.

What’s the strangest family tradition in your family?

We sing “Happy Birthday” to each other at the top of our lungs in the loudest and most obnoxious voices possible. It’s wonderful!

What is the grossest food you thought you had to eat to be polite?

Fisherman’s Wharf. Summer 2015. I thought I had to look cool and impress my intern friends by eating an oyster. That slippery, slimy, booger of a food sliding down my throat was enough to make me a second away from vomiting. NEVER AGAIN!

What is the kindest thing a stranger has ever done for you?

I was walking through the middle of Times Square to meet a friend for lunch. A little boy jumped over my cane, easily snapping it in two between his little legs. Of course I didn’t have a spare! Out of nowhere, these musicians on the sidewalk spring into action, running into a nearby store for tape, and grabbing up popsicle sticks, wood chips, and even a marker! They performed the most miraculous cane surgery I’ve ever seen, and in the end, I walked away with a working cane. God places the most amazing people in your life, right when you need them. Angels were looking out for me that day.

What is the best praise or advice you’ve received?

My grandpa once told me, “The safest place you can be is where God has you right now.” Whenever I question my current circumstances, or where I’m headed, I remember God’s plan for my life is so much greater than I can even imagine. It’s OK to just be content where you are. With God leading the way, the sky’s the limit. He’s creating a masterpiece out of you and me.

Want to learn more? Check out my About and Media pages. Enjoy the rest of your Sunday, and remember to subscribe below to get my updates delivered to your inbox.