House update

We were supposed to close on our house last Friday, but some other issues came up and we still have not been able to do that. Please keep praying that this will get worked out soon.

No communication with the outside world!!

I have now been on the job for a week and a half. Things are going well as I try to learn the ins and outs of the new church; meet students, parents, and others; and learn to survive without cable, internet, or phone. We are staying with a family that has an extra house on their farm land. Unfortunately, the house doesn't have cable or internet. We have cell phones, but we can't get any reception because we are so far out of town. When we drive into town for work or to go somewhere, our phones work and I have internet at work so I can check e-mail and turn in my school assignments. At least the house has hot, running water and we don't have to use an outhouse for the bathroom (for those who like to bash on Iowa, yes, we do have running water)!! Of course, things could be worse if we were missing things like food or other items many people in the world don't have. I guess I shouldn't complain. I also want to thank the Connellys for letting us stay at their house. They have been very kind and we appreciate them opening their home.

Survivor

I cannot believe that Dreamz backed out of his promise to Yau Man. Thanks to that decision, Earl won the million dollars. Earl was a good player, but Yau Man was by far the best in the game. I think that Yau Man is my favorite Survivor player ever!!

I can't wait for aunt Sarah's wedding! I love my dress!

Love,
Maddie

Maddie is a Walking Machine

In all of the selling of our house and buying of the other one we forgot to tell you all that Madeline Day learned how to walk this past weekend! She is very proud of herself and her new independence!

Iowa House

Hey Everyone just a quick update...
Eric talked to our realtor in Iowa and we are moving forward in the process! It looks like we could close by May 25th which would be great. Thanks for all of your prayers!

SOLD!!

Our house finally sold!!! Praise God!!!

Don't forget your name!

Don't forget to put your name on your post! If you don't, we won't know who you are.

CCC Farewell

Last Sunday, the Student Ministries put on a farewell party for Kate, Maddie, and me. It started off with a slideshow of the past 4 years and then there was a time of sharing. The first part of the sharing was funny stuff. I think my favorite story was Michelle describing how she thought I was a short, fat black man by my voice. (For those who weren't there, she got this impression from talking to me on the phone but not knowing what I look like). Apparently, I also have some anger management and time management issues :-) (the anger tended to be towards my 7th grade guys CORE Group...or so they thought).

The second part of the sharing was the "serious" stuff. It was really AWESOME to hear how Kate and I have made a difference in the lives of students, parents, and leaders. Often times, we don't take the time to tell others how much of a difference they make in our lives. I was reminded that I should do the same.

But it's not just about us! I want to thank all the students, parents, and leaders who have made working at CCC such a joy! As I shared on Sunday, as much as I have had the opportunity to teach others, they have taught me just as much. I am always excited to see students, parents, and leaders put their faith in action.

I also want to thank everyone who came to the farewell and especially those who helped make it happen. I know it takes a lot of time and energy to put on something like that. So we thank you very much!!

Thanks so much and we love you all. We hope you will keep in touch.

Final day of Intensives

It's hard to believe but tomorrow is my last day of Intensives at Bethel Seminary. This is the sixth time I have spent two weeks of my life in class over the past 3 years. While it has been a long process, it has been a good one. I have learned so much and grown so much as a leader and a follower of Christ. I don't think the whole 3-year experience has completely sunk in yet. I imagine that will happen in the weeks and years following seminary.

The next time I come on campus it will be to go through the graduation ceremony (even though I have one class to finish in the summer). But regardless, I can't wait!!