Saturday, April 28, 2007

My California Tribute

Well, I've been in California for almost two weeks and yesterday, the sun came out!!! This is the California I remember. I've gotten to see so many of my friends and supporters. Although this has been a tiring time, it is so great to renew friendships and reconnect with those I love, and those that I know love me. Here are a few of the special people in my life! Here's Becky...I have known her for a life time (well, since I was nine). Even though it's been many years since we've seen each other, we picked right up wherever we left off. She is still the Becky I remember...witty, fun, beautiful, kind, and positive. It was so great seeing you Becky. Thanks for breakfast!

Linda and Rochelle - great getting to see you in Modesto. Linda - my dear friend who is a 'life long' friend. We have shared so much over the years even though we've been miles a part. Did I twist your arm hard enough to move to Nashville???

Everyone needs to have 'heart friends' ... those friends that you know will be your friends forever... I am fortunate that I have many. Kanako - you are an amazing hostess. The shabu shabu was out of this world, and your hospitality never ceases to amaze me! Rocco, Daniela, Ronny, Randy, Kanako and Brian - wow... the memories we have built over the last 15 years or so. I am blessed to have you all in my life! But where's Joel???


Here He Is !!!! My little guy... how I love him. He is happy, sweet, always has a smile for me. I love the way he likes to bump foreheads together, and laughs when you fake a sneeze. He's even started trying it himself! Can't wait to see what God has up the road for this little man. Ronny and Daniela - you are amazing parents. God has truly blessed you. Thanks for blessing me and letting me love on Joel!


I had quite a few other friends I was able to see, but didn't get pictures of everyone. But I do need to say thank you to Marilyn for cutting and coloring my hair; to Barrie, Nancy and Andi for a great time together; to Joseph for treating me to Maggiano's; to Charlie and Kathy for a great lunch out; to Genny and Kenny for a great time in San Luis Obispo, and last but not least by any stretch of the means... to Julie - for loaning me a car while I was in California and giving me a place to rest my head during those two busy weeks. Each of you are such a special part of my life!

Hope Force Training

It was so great to get to go through the Hope Force training right off the bat (after a great two day staff retreat - altho we missed Todd and Molly). We had about 12 participants or so and although we usually have bigger classes, this was a great size for me personally to get introduced to the world of Hope Force. After going through this class, it's confirmed... there are a lot of amazing people out in the world who have a heart to give back...

We had some amazing teaching during this time by Dan Sneed, Dave Buehring (and by video, Dean Sherman). The good news is that Dan is a part of the Hope Force Board and Dave share's an office with us, so I am doubly blessed to continue my acquaintances with these great men of God!

Monday, April 02, 2007

My New 'Home Land'


How can I describe Nashville... Beautiful, Traditional, Quaint, Lovely...




How can I describe the new team I get to work with ... Priceless !!!