Person of the Week: Summer Martin

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor. For if one falls down his friend will help him up. But woe to him who is alone when he falls for he has no one to help him up. "

Summer is one of those friends! She is a faithful friend whom I love and cherish. I met Summer about 3 years ago at the college and we have gotten closer over the years. She is a close confidant. The following are reasons why I love and appreciate Summer: 1.She is my sister in Christ. 2.She is a faithful friend. 3.She encourages me. 4.Her pursuit of Christ makes me want to seek Him more. 5.She loves the beach as much as me (maybe more.) 6.She pursues me as a friend. 7.She laughs at my dumb jokes. 8.She laughs and cries with me. 9.She is creative. 10.I love her laugh.

Summer, I love you! Faithful are the wounds of a friend (Proverbs 27:6)! When a person is faithful, he is loyal. He is a true friend. That is you to me. You have been such an encouragement to me especially in the last month. The Lord has blest us with our frienship. He gives us what we need when we need it and He has given us a wonderful friendship that He he is pleased and honored by. I have loved our conversations, texts and songs that we have shared. Thank you for loving me and encouraging me even when you were hurting. I'm thankful that I have you to share this time of life with. Our God is great and faithful and He has proven that to me once again with your friendship. I love you sis!

Psalm 62:5-8
My soul wait silently for God alone,
For my expectation is from Him;
He only is my rock and my salvation;
He is my defense, I shall not be moved.
In God is my salvation and my glory;
The rock of my strength; and my refuge is in God.
Trust in Him at all times you people.
Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.

These verses have become a favorite of mine. I have been trying to memorize more scripture and meditate on it throughout the day. It has been sweet. There is much comfort to be found in the Word of God. I have really enjoyed my time with the Lord recently and as I've been going through some personal trials I have longed to be in the Word to be comforted and to listen to God's truths. I have been so thankful for the hope I have in Christ. I need to always keep my eyes fixed on Him no matter what the circumstance. In doing this I have seen Christ more clearly and to this I'm grateful.

*Today I am thankful for faithful friends.

I HEART Christmas Vacation...

I always look forward to the holiday as the college shuts down the week between Christmas and New Years! I have had to work on and off perodically but the sleeping in and not having to get ready in the morning has been wonderful. I spent the last day and a half in Palm Springs with Summer. We checked out a house her parents were looking at and did girl stuff. (shopping, talking, pedicures, and had good conversations on what we are learning in our studies.) It was a good time. I included some pictures for all you in the mid-west. This is us hot-tubbing in the 50 degree weather....HOLLA! Have I said how much i love Southern Cali?

Ivy is coming over to spend the night tonight as Kelli, Matt, Mom and dad are going to a party. I hope everyone out there is having a blessed week with loved ones!

I finally got around to getting some Christmas photos posted. It was a great time as my parents were able to come out this year. They arrived on Ivy's birthday which made it extra special. I haven't spent a Christmas with my parents in about three years so it was nice for us to be together. Kelli's cooking was off the hook all day long. One thing I love about Kelli is her love for food. I think she had the menu planned for about a month. Breakfast, snacks, and the main meal were all yummy. We were blest to share our family fun with my friend John as he was unable to go home this year. It was such a nice day to be with loved ones. We had lots of stories and laughs all day long. (There's NEVER a dull moment with the fam!) The only thing missing was Kyle, Becca and the kids.

None But Jesus

A friend encouraged me with this song this week. I love the words. It encouraged my heart. (Thanks Summer!)

In the quiet, in the stillness
I know that you are God
In the secret of your presence
I know there I am restored

When you call I wont refuse
Each new day again Ill choose

Chorus:
There is no one else for me
None but Jesus
Crucified to set me free
Now I live to bring Him praise

In the chaos, in confusion
I know Your sovereign still
In the moment of my weakness
You give me grace to do your will

Oh when you call I wont delay
This my song for all my days

All my delight is in You Lord
All of my hope, all of my strength
All my delight is in You Lord
Forevermore



*Today I am thankful for the $35 Christmas tree I found! YES!!

The True Meaning of Christmas

"Then the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manager." Luke 2:10-12

"But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying out "Abba Father!" Therefore you are no longer a slave but a Son, and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ." Galations 4:4-7

"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved." Acts 16:31

Person of the Week: Ivy Elliott

I was compelled to do a post on Ivy this week as it's her second birthday today!It was two years ago that she was born. Kelli and Matt had been trying for years to have kids and were never able to so they decided to adopt. This is where precious little Ivy comes in. I remember the moment that I fell in love with her. When I first met Ivy it was at the hospital up in Northern California. Having been a social worker for 5 years I was a bit guarded knowing that she could be taken from us up to 30 days. I remember it was about day 28 and Kelli, Matt, and I were at their house and we were pretty certain that she would be ours forever. I remember holding her and we were all crying and Matt prayed and thanked the Lord for blessing us with her. I felt so much love for her at that moment and it has never changed. I'm not even her mom and I can't imagine the love Kelli and Matt have for her. I love all my neices and nephew but there's something special about Ivy because she was chosen.

It's been so fun seeing her grow and learn new things. Here are some of the reasons I'm thankful for her and reasons why I love her.
1.That she has Godly parents who will raise her in a Christian home. 2. The way she makes me laugh. 3. The way she tries to scare me. 4.The way she sings with me in the car. 5.Her big lips. 6.They way she calls me and talks jibberish. 7.The way she laughs at me. 8.The way she hugs me so tight.

Ivy, I love you! I am so thankful that you are in my life and I love that I get to see you all the time. I pray you become a Godly young woman who loves Jesus with all her heart. I look forward to seeing you grow and being a part of your life.

Cornerstone...

Today in our Sunday School class we had a time of food, fun and fellowship. It was a nice change and I loved having all the kids around. It was fun to talk to people you don't normally get to talk to and hear about everyone's holiday plans and the busyness of life. The first picture are two dear friends of mine Angela and Maryann. I have loved getting to know these girls this past year and establishing a close friendship with them.
The second picture is of Miss Ivy. She thought she owned the place this morning. She was running with all the big kids and after having a big breakfast at Aunt Hollie's house this morning went on to eat a donut, eggs, and probably 3 muffins. The girl can eat!

*Today I am thankful for Christmas music that bring you into the Christmas spirit and reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas.

Ivy

Ivy is spending the night with me tonight and we have so much fun together. She found her Christmas present and I couldnt help but let her play with it. (sorry kelli you will find out Tuesday)

She has been saying my name all night. It got me a little teary eyed. We are getting ready for dinner but i wanted to show you a picture of her giving me some sugar (kisses). I love being an aunt.

PS She has chocolate on her face...it's not dirt.

*Today I am thankful for sweet kisses from Ivy.

This is a picture of all the Enrollment and Student Life staff at the college. We all met at our fearless leaders house (Mark Tatlock) for a luncheon. It was a great time to hang out and a group of us played a rowdy game of Charades.

Sweet Thoughts...

My friend Summer bought me a sweet book, "31 Days of Praise." I wanted to share a post that spoke to me as these are constant thoughts that go through my mind. . It's a praise to God.

"I magnify you O Lord, I exalt your name. You exercise your gracious authority over all nations- and over each individual in the World. There is none like you the true God, the living God, the everlasting God.

I prasie you for your soverignty over the broad events of my life and over the details. With you, nothing is accidental, nothing is incidental, and no experience is wasted. You hold in your own power my breath of life and my destiny. And every trial that you allow to happen is a platform on which You reveal yourself, showing Your love and power, both to me and to others looking on. Thank you that I can move into the future nondefensively, with hands outstretched to whatever lies ahead, for You hold the future and You will always be with me, even to my old age and all through eternity."

*Today I'm thankful for you Summer. Thanks for the sweet little gifts today. You are a sweet, fun, faithful and Godly friend who spurs me on to always look to the cross. I am thankful for you.

Mason Gorsh...My nephew

I had to show you this post my brother did on my nephew. Seriously he is the cutest thing. He's so senstive and tender hearted too. I love him. Here is the post verbatium...

"This very presidential picture of Mason should remind us all that we need to get out and vote in the months to come. Get informed, reflect on your values and know which republican you're voting for. These are very important times in our countries history and we need to be involved. God bless this country, God bless the great state of Iowa, and God bless the Iowa Hawkeyes! Vote for Mason in 2052."

I love my family! :)

Would You Rather Wednesday?!?!

Would you rather hate your life but everyone liked you or have everyone hate you but you enjoy yourself? Death in not an option.

*Today I am thankful for Julie Lee driving all the way to Santa Clarita yesterday in the rain to eat lunch with me. I've appreciated her pursuit of our friendship and her frankness in getting to the heart of all issues!

I wanted to share a Christmas present with you. My co-worker Gary got me this neat new crockpot for Christmas. I'm trying to get into the cooking thing more and he's trying to help me! :) This is not your average crockpot though. It's the mack daddy of all crock pots. First of all it has multiple functions. You can saute, cook, store, and serve all in the same crock pot. It's a stoneware crock pot too.

It features programmable countdown technology and a digital timer that alerts you when your meal is ready. The crock pot automatically shifts to warm when done. This is a great gift for a beginner like myself and came with a recipe book. (sorry it's a slow blogging day!) Thanks G! Great gift.

*Today I am thankful for special suprises from friends. I had a couple sweet notes and gifts when I came into work today. Unexpected, thoughtful and undeserving. Yet I'm grateful.

Person of the Week: Shannon Chappelone

I've known Shannon for about 4 and half years. I first met her through an old roommate. I remember her coming to my apartment to spend the night and she was on crutches. I thought she was this really cool girl cause she hurt her leg surfing. (seriously if you're going to hurt yourself then have a cool story to go along with it...Shannon did) My relationship with Shannon didnt begin to grow until I hired her to work in the Admissions office over three years ago. Since that time Shannon has become a close friend of mine. She is a hard worker and always goes the extra mile. She lives Colossians 3:23-24.

I have loved watching Shannon grow over the last few years. A few things about Shannon that have taught me a thing or two is the way she has perservered through tough times. She is faithful and her trust in God has been an example to me. I love her honesty. If she's having a hard day there have been times when she'll come in my office and say i'm having a hard time please pray for me. I've appreciated her humility in that and willingness to turn it over to God. She pursues me as her friend and has given me good sound biblical advice which is an encouragement to me.

A few reasons why I'm thankful for Shannon: 1. The way she serves the Church. 2. The way she loves those she disciples. 3. The way she loves her husband Adam. 4. Her desire to grow. 5.Her humility. 6. Her commitment to me professionally and personally. 7.Her honesty.

Shannon, I love you. You will truly be missed when you move up North. The office won't be the same. Thank you for your commitment and love to me. I have grown to love and appreciate you and can't wait to see what is in store for you this year. You are a friend forever!

It's Not About Me!

I've been reminded numerous times this week about the need to love and serve others. I've been checking my motives and actions alot lately as to why I do or say certain things. Is it to love and serve others in order to bring glory to God or is it for my own benefit? In the past couple of weeks there were a few occasions when I expressed love or care for a friend and their response wasn't what I expected. My response was dissapointment.

Romans 12:9-13 says "Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another; not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; distributing the needs of the saints, given to hospitality."

These verses convicted me. I'm going to be continually let down by people if I'm putting my hope and trust in them. I need to live my life to glorify God and bring honor unto Him. If that means loving others, being faithful and devoted to others without a simple thank you in return then so be it. We all need to think not of our own desires and wants but others. It's not always easy but God has been gracious to this girl and I want to honor Him in all things.

*Today I'm thankful for the way the Lord reveals himself to me in many different ways and situations. I'm thankful that he loves me enough that he never stops teaching me and showing me my sin.

Happy Birthday Jenny!!!

Happy Birthday Jenny McCown! Jenny is one of my closest friends. She is such a happy positive person and one of my funnest friends. Jenny got married in September 2006 and moved to Yakima, WA. I miss her! Before she got married Jenny, Tricia and I had become what I would like to call "Charlie's Angels". My favorite memories here in CA were those times with Jenny and Tricia. We have been through a lot together, traveled alot and we were the concert queens! I consider her friendship a wonderful gift from God and am so thankful she is in my life. Jenny just became a mom to Olivia and she is doing great.

I love you Jenny and wish I could spend this day with you. Know that you are a loved and I can't wait to see you and meet little Olivia!

Another Celebration...

We like to par-tay at The Master's College and last night finished my fourth work party for Christmas. I must say the best was saved for last! I hosted a dinner for everyone in my office. We went to Wood Ranch which is always yummy. I was able to share with everyone how grateful I am for the hard workers they are but also the blessing they have been in my life not just profesionally but personally. I spend more time with these people than anyone else and we are truly a family that shares the ups and downs of life together. To their spouses I had the opportunity to share how much I appreciate them as well. This job affects the whole family due to the busyness and travels of the the job and the support they receive from their spouses is encouraging and needed. It is definetly a family affair and it's one for which I'm most grateful. It was a great night of food, fun and fellowship (this is how I rate a good evening if you have all the F's).

A big thanks to Joe Keller for entertaining us with all of his most embarrasing moments, I love to laugh and needed it! Also, thanks to Brady Schenk for doing a little splitsville with me!

*Today I am thankful for heat. It's getting cold here in California and I've loved waking up in the mornings all cozy in my bed and it not being freezing. When i walk out into the living room I feel the warm air blowing. YES!

Ivy...

Yesterday I took a half day of vacation as I needed to use up some time before next Friday or I lose it. I was missing Ivy so I went over to see her. I thought I'd kill two birds with one stone and get a work out while we were kicking it together. I ran with her to the park and then we played. It was a sweet time. We laughed, chased eachother, went down the slide together, and just had fun being together. I adore my neice and consider her a blessing. It's been so fun to see her grow. She calls me at least once a day to talk jibberish. She said my name for the first time the other day. I LOVE IT!

Would You Rather Wednesday?

Would you rather be strikingly gorgeous and poor or be noticably unattractive but have lots of money? Death is not an option.

*Today I am thankful for chapstick. When I woke up this morning I could tell it was getting cold out. My lips and skin were feeling dry so the first thing I did was grab the chapstick to soothe the feeling. I was thankful for the quick relief. (dad, I'm not addicted....yet)

Christmas Greetings...

Thought you would all like to see our Admissions Christmas card that we send out. (Ok it's a slow blogging day!) :)

*Today I am thankful for Sue Richardson. Sue is an older lady who answers the phone here at TMC. Sue constantly tells me she's praying for me, will send me an encouraging note or verse or will just come to give me a hug. Today she wrote out a verse for me and delivered it with a hug. It is "May mercy, peace and love be multiplied to you." Jude 1:2

Person of the Week: Kelli Elliott (my sista!)

This is a special one for me! I'm not sure how to really put into words how much I love and care about my sister. My relationship with Kelli has become such a treasure to me over the last 10 years, especially since I moved out to California. Growing up we fought like no other and it wasn't until she moved away to attend The Master's College that we grew close.

My sister is truly my best friend. She is the first one I call when I'm excited about something or when I need encouragement. She shares my joy and she feels my sorrow.

Ever since Kelli and Matt adopted Ivy it has changed all of our lives. Kelli always included me in the process and Ivy was never just "theirs" but "ours". That meant so much to me.

I'm thankful for Kelli in the following ways: 1. The way she loves me. 2. She feeds me. 3. She makes me laugh. 4. She prays for me and encourages me in the Word when I need it. 5. She shares not just the good things in my life but the painful things too. 6. I can call her with nothing to say and she will talk to me for an hour! 7. The way she loves Matt and Ivy. 8. She looks out for me. 9. She stands up for the truth!

Kelli, I love you so much and am so proud to be your sister. You always make me laugh and are one of the funniest people I know. Thank you for always thinking of me, being sensitive of my feelings, and wanting only the best for me in life. Thank you for sticking up for me in times of need and being faithful to me in many different situations and times of life. I'm so thankful for the bond we have and we we are sistas in every sense of the word. I'm so thankful that we can walk through this time in our lives togehter. I thank God for you!

Sunday...

I love Sundays. I love my church. Grace Community has definetly been one of the biggest bonuses of my life here in California. I try not to take this for granted as I know it's hard to find good solid churches that teach the Word of God like Grace does. I'm involved in a great fellowship group called Cornerstone. This group has been paramount in my growth as a Christian. Our pastor, Tom Patton is a lover of the Word and each Sunday I get excited to come and hear him preach. I have grown so much in the last two years and I hope to always be pursuing Godliness. The people in my church have had a huge impact on my life.

Today Tom's message was "One From the Heart". He said many things that stood out to me and I want to share a few for you. On Marriage: 1.Marry a lover of Christ. 2.Christian marriage is about kindness and respect. 3.Women need to be the kind of woman that your husband won't be able to be anything but kind too. 3. Strive to make Christ the theme of your marriage. 4.Never demand attention from your husband...woo it. 4.Pray for your spouse more than anyone else. 5.Speak often about how much you love your spouse, home and marriage.

Success: 1.Be as faithul as you can be. 2.Let your satisfaction be from doing your job well.3. Never forget that joy is a gift from God that he is not required to grant me. When he does grant it see the grace in it before the gain. 4.Constantly ask: What am I wanting? Your first and foremost answer should be God. If it isn't then shame myself until my perspective changes. 5. Be Faithful (Memorize Joshua 1:8-9)

Dreams: 1. Never forget your dreams but constantly edit them. 2.The Lord will always give me the desires of my heart. It may not be what I think they should be but he will give me the desires. 3.Dream with your Bible open. 4.God uses what we want as a vehicle to point us to what we need which is Him. Then when we get what we want it may not be what we originally thought we needed. (this has happened to me a time or two! :))

Church: 1.Be vigilent in attending regularly. 2.Keep the church primary and lovely to your family. 3.Let nothing compete with church. Remember Christ died for the church. 4.Every Sunday pick one person to minister to outside of your family. 5.Make friends easily.

Random Thoughts: (but Good ones!) 1. Joy comes through suffering...don't waste pain! 2.Love less more. (or in other words) Love less things but what you do love do it more.. 3.Learn not to pity self. 4.Cling to purity. 5. You will die and all things will have their proper value. 6. Be faithful. 7. FEAR GOD!

*Today I am thankful for family. I got to spend the whole day with Hugh, Hampton, and Houston. They came with me to Cornerstone to see why I love my church family so much. After church we've been spending the day together reading, laundry, talking, eating, doing homework, and watching football. I'm thankful that the Lord brought this family into my life. They are truly my bros!

Adventures in Southern Cal...

Tricia and I wanted to burn the calories today so we decided to go try out these trails over by our house. We started down this secluded path in search of a waterfall. We ended up on quite an adventure. It was a beautiful trek and we unintentionally did some rock climbing. If you ever want a great work out in a beautiful setting give me a call!

We started walking and saw a sign pointing it's way to a waterfall. We went about 20 minutes off the road and we found it. There wasn't much water but it was beautiful regardless. We ran into some guys who told us there is usually a lot more water so we will be making this a regular part of our workout. We felt very athletic and adventurous. It was a beautiful, secluded and quiet. (mom I will be careful and not trek it alone) IT was another great opportunity to thank God for his beautiful creation.

It was a good day! I love southern Cal!

I love TMC College Students...

This morning I had all my staff and interns over for our Annual Intern Christmas party. We had everyone wake up and come in their pajamas. We had stockings for them, a smorgasboard of food, and we did a white elephant gift exchange. There were 23 of us that piled into my house and it was a great time just to be together. This was a time for the staff to communicate to these students how much we love and appreciate their hard work this last semester before they take off for Christmas break.


The white elephant gift that I choose was NSync thank you cards, buttons, and autograph cards....how perfect for me. Holla for JT! :) Everyone knew not to take my gift! It was a special time for us to be together outside of the office.


*Today I was reminded how blessed I am for the people the Lord has placed in the office. I am so thankful for this extension of my family. I consider this one of the biggest blessings from the Lord. I love you guys and am so thankful you are in my life. You make my job much easier!

Tis the Season...

Blogging everyday is a challenge! I probably would have skipped today had it not been for all of the shout outs I've been given regarding how my blog has become a beloved daily reading. Thanks for the encouragement everyone. I love my "Would you Rather Questions" because it's a little interactive and I enjoy reading people's answers. I will add this to the weekly posts. The past two days have been a busy joy. Last night John and I went out for sushi and then off to see Wicked at the Pantages Theater. It was entertaining. The leading lady had a set of pipes on her that blew me away. She was really good! It' s amazing to me all the details that go into some of these shows. It was a fun and enjoyable evening.

Today was another busy day at work: 2 meetings, three interviews, going through about 30 files and trying to get ready for out intern Christmas party tommorow. We also had our all staff/faculty Christmas party at work tonight. It was really nice. I took pictures but havent had a chance to download them so that wil be coming later. I am so blessed to have such an amazing office. These people have really become an extension of my family. All of the girls in my office took lunch to my house to decorate and get set up for the morning. Everyone is coming over at 9 AM for a "pajama Christmas" party. We are having tons of different breakfeast foods, we prepared stocking stuffers for everyone and are doing a white elephant gift exchange. I had the guys in the office be in charge of that so you never know what we will end up with. I'll make sure to take pictures and let you all know how it goes tommorow.

* Today I am thankful for my bed. It is seriously the best bed i've ever slept on. It is so comfortable and I ENJOY it. I have the best, softest, most cuddley blankets and I love getting in my bed! When my friends come to my house I tell them to lay on it and enjoy it for a minute since it's so comfortable. Yeah bed! I love you.

Madison Grace Gorsh

This is the newest edition to the Gorsh Gang. This is Kyle's (my younger brother) third chld. I haven't met her yet but am really excited to. It's hard being so far away from my two nieces and nephew but I appreciate getting regular updates and pictures from my sister in law Becca. I love my sister in law and really appreciate how she talks to the kids about their aunts in California. The kids know who we are because of their mom's influence. (Bec, it means a lot to me!) They are so fun. They just posted a fun video on my oldest neice Mayah. Check it out at http://gorshlife.blogspot.com

* Today I'm thankful for Julie Gephards. I lalways love our time together. Thanks for finally making it happen. Thank you for dinner, sharing your family with me and girl time. It was a blast. I love you!

Would You Rather?

Would you rather be sleep deprived for 2 years straight or have untreatable acid relux after ever meal for the next three years? Death is not an option.

* Today I am thankful for the changing leaves. I love this. It reminds me of the fall in the mid-west. It's such a beautiful time of year.

Happy Birthday J!

Happy Birthday to my dear friend John Adams. John is one of those people that everyone loves. He's charming, kind, thoughtful, loving, sincere, and one of the funniest people I know. Our friendship has grown over the last few months and I consider him a blessing from the Lord.

I am thankful for John in the following ways: His love for the Word and his pursuit of things Godly, the way he encourages me towards Godliness, he "gets it" (if you don't know what that means then you don't get it), his sense of humor, his positvie attitude, his honesty, he's a great listener, he's humble and he makes me laugh. Happy Birthday John....I'm thankful for you in my life!

Person of the Week: Megan Schenk

Megan was the first person I hired at The Master's College. I hired her as the Office Manager. (aka Hollie's personal assistant) If I had to come up with one word to describe Megan it would be faithful. Megan has been such an encourager of me both personally and professionally. She is always looking out for me at work. If anyone tries to mess with me Megan is right there to back me up. I know Megan loves me not only becasue she tells me but more so becasue she shows me. Megan has an innocence about her that few have but most admire. She has taught me alot and challenged me as a Christian.

Here are some reasons why I am thankful for Megs: 1. Her faithfulness. 2. Her pursuit of our friendship. 3. Her love for the Lord that has taught me a thing or two. 4. Her teachability. 5. She shares my trials and rejoices me with me. 6. Her innocence. 7. Her friendship.

Meg, I love you and am thankful for you in my life. You are always encouraging me and showing your love for me in a variety of ways. Thank you for your faithfulness in praying for me and walking through this time of life with me. You are forever a part of my family and I am so thankful for you this day!

I Heart Weekends...

I can't believe it's Sunday night already where does the time go!?!? Yesterday I attended a baby shower for a girl in my bible study. It was real nice. It was great to catch up with some friends I don't get a chance to talk to much. Afterwards Tricia and I headed to Pasadena for some Christmas shopping and a nice dinner. We ended up going to The Yard House. It was good. On the way home I got so sleepy and fell asleep at 9:30 but them was up from 2:30-4....i have the weirdest sleeping patterns.

After church today I went to lunch with my friend Lynn and then we went to a jewelry party thrown by my pastor's wife Lori. She has the cutest stuff. You need to check out her website. www.heartworksbylori.com. I found some great Christmas gifts. Tonight I have church then will stop by a Christmas party for some students at the college. We will be playing a little ice hockey. YES!!!

*Today I am thankful for peace that surpasses ALL understanding.