I know it’s been since around Thanksgiving since I last posted on here.
I wish I had a better excuse for not formulating a better journal since
then, except to say that I’ve been spending more time just enjoying
life rather than writing it all back down again! But I do need to get
back into the groove so as to entertain myself in the
future…reminiscing of wonderful events that took place in my
life.  I guess a few of my friends only know of the life I post on
Xanga so that’s another reason I need to stay current.
G-d has just been so wonderful in my life recently and has blessed me
with such a wonderful family and amazing friends! I can only describe
the joy I have as…indescribable! It’s a feeling that is so unable to be
expressed at times. It’s not even a feeling! Joy is so much more than
that!
Well – on to my highlights of the past…lots of stuff! If I “forget” anything – “remind me” and I’ll post it ;)
Prepare to be amazed (or really disgusted!) at this incredibly long post!
(Ps. Today’s entry is at the bottom :P)
 
 
December 1, 2004 – Wednesday
Karin’s Bday today! Happy Bday Karin! Tonight I took my professor from
Bible class out to dinner – all paid for by CLA’s Food for Thought
program. My friend Sarah from class went as well. Levi couldn’t make it
so I brought Mary with for free food! Annie’s Parlor was great! I got a
burger and malt…and listening to my prof talk about how she got her job
here – what kind of Jew she is – and her ideas on other stuff! It was a
ton of fun!

December 3, 2004 – Friday
Erin Norby’s birthday today! Happy bday Erin!!!!!!!
 
December 4, 2004 – Saturday
This morning I went to CSF for a brunch with the other student leaders. It was a lot of fun!
Later that night Jollie, his date Mandy, me, and my “date” Erica went
up to Breezy Point Resort to chill for our frat formal. That was a
blast! My date was…ok…she was cute though! Haha but let’s just say I
had more fun hangin’ out with my bros that night ;)
Ice skating the following day was a lot of fun though! Sunday we came
back – I went to church for a dinner thing with my family and the
college group. Then I took my friend Heather K. to the Trans-Siberian
Orchestra. That was a blast! Oh my gosh! The music was just amazing and
the talent…yeah I got pics and video if you wanna see sometime! But
back to my frat formal – that was fun too! My bros rock! Hey Joe! Are
you happy I’ve finally posted this?! J Check his blog out!
 
December 9, 2004 – Thursday
Tonight was another MacLaurin Student Group discussion at the Christian
Frat (will be called Bordertown café next semester when it opens its
coffee shop! I moderated the discussion that night. It went pretty
well. I love G-d! He’s so amazing!
 
December 11, 2004 – Saturday
Today I hung out with Mare! We watched a movie at my frat and caught up on life! Good times!
 
December 13, 2004 – Monday
I had to give a FIVE minute oral presentation in HEBREW today in class.
Thanks Elana and Ehud for helpin’ me out before hand! I talked about my
missions trips and brought in a club from Ukraine, and a machete from
Guatemala (hoping to distract them from listening to me)! Lol
Oh yeah!
 
December 19, 2004 – Sunday
Church was good. Afterwards though – at 10pm (and my parents still
don’t know – so don’t go tellin’ em) I drove my friend Elana to
Milwaukee WI! Haha! That was like a 5 hour drive ONE WAY! I know I
know…I’m crazy! At least I saw another part of the country that I
haven’t before! Lol
I made it back Monday during rush hour. I hit a snow storm on the way back – but nothin’ too bad ;) Praise G-d!
 
December 22, 2004 – Wednesday
Well finals are all over now as of after this afternoon! I went home to
a bunch of friends from CSF and church and we watched all THREE LOTR
extended editions! We started around 6pm and didn’t finish ‘till almost
6am! It was a load of fun! So exciting!
 
December 25, 2004 – Saturday
Christmas today! My sister texted me in the morning to try to get me to wake up! I like to sleep ok?! Lol
But I eventually got up, wrapped the presents I had for my family (I
guess it’s last-min. tradition every year) and put them with the
others, then went to see my family up in their rooms. We went to the
living room together and opened up presents, etc. It was great! I got
some money, some cologne, necessities, etc. and it was just a lot of
fun! Later that day we went to my cousin’s and Grandma’s house. My
friend Cassie from Hebrew class came as well! It was a lot of fun! The
food was good, the relationships are always good, and most of all –
it’s so exciting to be with a group of people who all love G-d more
than anything – and who prove it by the way they live! It was just
really neat!
 
December 29, 2004 – Wednesday
I finally got to hang out with my friend Rebecca! I’ve known her for a
while through being Pillar leaders. She’s from the wonderful state of
New Mexico J She was in town visiting her grandparents up in Clearwater
(really nice, amazing Christian people)– so I drove out there to see
her, and ended up eating shrimp and crab legs as well! I met and talked
with her family for a bit, and then left a bit early for St. Cloud to
see Meet the Fockers.  She would tell you that I took a wrong
turn. However – I was just exploring new parts of Minnesota that I
haven’t yet been to! We found the theater early so we went to chill at
a Best Buy for a while…and guess who I ran into?! None other than Ferny
and Nutzman! How cool! All the way up in St. Cloud?! Hmmm…
So after that Rebecca and I went and saw that “wonderful” movie (while
I closed my eyes and ears at the same time every few minutes or so)!
Thanks Rebecca ;) Yeah it was pretty funny though
It was really fun! On the way back we listened to “real” Christian
music. Can we say Raze?! Or Mukala?! Haha! Who remembers them?! Oh
yeah! So that totally rocked!
Afterwards we went back to her grandparent’s place (they’re SUPER nice)
and just talked for a while. It was so much fun! Too bad you live so
far away Rebecca! I love your family though! It was so my fun hangin’
out while it lasted! You’re a good friend! So that totally made my year!
 
December 31, 2004 – Friday
Heather, Mandii, and Al came over for New Years. We went over to
Caleb’s for a while to watch Napoleon Dynamite. Then we came back to my
place to chill, have a good time, watch movies, and fall asleep as
another day approached! haha
 
January 1, 2005 – Saturday
Everyone left pretty early in the morning after the party – good times! Oh Al stuck around J
 
January 2, 2005 - Sunday
Today I went to church. Then…I tried to get a new cell plan…but they
were closed…and I hate att store in Riverdale...mean man. Haha! Thanks
Caleb for goin’ with me though! You’re the man!
Later that night, I had worship practice at M.C.  Amber wanted me
to take over for Dave Bailey on the keyboard. I guess he wasn’t feeling
well – but I think he’ll be doing the actual playing on Wednesday night!
 
January 3, 2005 – Monday
No work today because of the New Year’s holiday so I actually sat
around my house today and just chilled! I got a new cell phone with my
own plan now. I wanted to help my parents out a little bit financially
so I figured that this was a good step in that direction! Dude my cell
is sweet! It opens up for a full qwerty keyboard! I love typing that
“word” qwerty! Try it! haha!
So yeah – that’s my exciting day! I would rather be at work though – sitting around and getting paid for it!!
G-d bless! Shalom.
 
January 4, 2005 – Tuesday
Don’t remember much of my morning…in the evening however, I met Adam
Sands (a good friend and godly mentor) for dinner at the 50’s grill
near my work. Marni normally works there too I guess but she wasn’t
there tonight. It was a good time though catching up on life and
sharing what G-d’s been doing in our lives. Adam is such an
encouragement to me. I don’t even know how I know him really! Its kinda
crazy! But yeah it was a really good night.
 
January 5, 2005 – Wednesday
After work today (which I’ve been doing a lot lately) I went over to
Ashley Squire’s house for dinner. She made Al and me dinner (our
Christmas present) and we watched the Terminal as well! Dinner was
great! She made like this pasta lasagna from scratch. We also had like
bread, sparkling grape juice (oh yeah)! And then dessert was terrific!
Brownies and ice cream! Yeah that was a great night! Thanks so much
Ash! The Terminal was a pretty good movie. It was clean, cute, and a
pretty humorous plot! Oh yeah! I love Jesus J
 
January 12, 2005 - Wednesday
I hung out with Al today. I don’t remember much. Sorry Al J I’m sure we
hung out, ate pizza, played on your computer, drove around, and hung
out more at your house and my house lol! I’m sure of it! Anyway but I
do wanna say that Al is just a really great friend. It’s weird how we
think a like a lot of the time (in some aspects at least). But yeah –
thanks Al for just being you. And quit hitting me! I owe you so many
back you have no idea! Yep – that’s my day!
 
January 13, 2005 – Thursday
Today was a wonderful day! I woke up on time…early even! I made it to
work in the semi-cold conditions without a problem and walked in right
on time. Today was a very busy day. We shipped out all of the Minnesota
project on UPS and then…I forgot! Haha! Oh well! It’s not important! Oh
I remember! Lawrence apologized (sorta) to me and Muhamad today because
I guess the ship out problems really weren’t our fault after all! The
address scanner loaded the address program which was off – thus sending
the boxes to the different locations! Lol
So anyway – Lawrence gave me like this 10lb bag (not exaggerating) of
Nestle candy! So I split that with 1st shift! And even 2nd shift! The
entire back was gone before I left work! Haha that was great!
Later that night though Mary took me out to Fuddruckers for my
birthday! That was SOOO good! I love eating there! She is such a great
cousin! I couldn’t ask for anyone better to be related to! G-d is so
wonderful! After eating there and talking for a while, we went back to
her house and watched a movie. It was so great! We just hung out a lot,
I talked to Grandma when she came home…talked to Sue as well. It was
just a super duper night hangin’ with Mary and my relatives! Thanks
Mary!
 
January 14, 2005 – Friday
Another highlighted day! My aunt Sue brought doughnuts to work today for my birthday! That was so nice! I loved it!
Also Maridyth came over for the evening! It’s been so long since we
hung out! We went to Panara – where I saw Beka’s friend. I love eating
there! Mare and I caught up on life a bit and then went over to
Hollywood to get Troy. We went back to my place, chilled, watched
Troy…(which…is long…and…I dunno – it’s ok, but it’s not like super
fantastic or anything) so that was fun! It was a great way to celebrate
my almost b-day!
 
January 15, 2005 – Saturday
Today I pretty much hung out with my family all day. My family took me
to the Green Mill for dinner – which was really nice of them! The pizza
was great, I got a HUGE thing of ice cream and brownies and whip cream,
etc. (and shared with the fam. Of course)! And my parents gave me a
wonderful card, some money, and…yes…a house key! I know I know…it’s
about time! It was a pretty sweet day!!
 
January 16, 2005 – Sunday
Another fantastic day full of surprises! I went to church today with my
family, hung out at Caribou for college group after the service…then
the guys came over to my place to watch the football game…and I guess
today was my bday too so I guess they stayed to eat cake or somethin’
too. My mom made éclair cake ;) really good stuff! I opened up some
cards I got from my relatives and stuff…etc. and then hung out some
more with my friends from church…Karl, JB, Jake, and Caleb. I
uhh…well…I got the funny idea to take my lighter I got from my bro for
Christmas, and light a napkin with it! I thought it was great! When it
was almost to my fingers I started to walk to the sink – but of course
Lydia’s standing there and not moving – starting to freak out! I mean
this napkin is gonna burn my hand unless I drop it in the sink but
Lydia was just too freaked to move! On top of that – my mom grabbed my
arm as if to stop me from going anywhere and wouldn’t let go! So I was
like “ok well I’m gonna have to drop it now – thanks mom”…and I dropped
it on the floor while mom and my dad tried to stomp it out! It was so
funny! Later on JB told me that it was one of the funniest things he’s
seen in a while! Haha! I just don’t get it! Mom grabbing my arm…Lydia
not moving…haha I mean what else am I gonna do?! Lol
So pretty much right after that incident I had to go to the CSF center
for the beginning of our student leaders meeting. The meeting part went
well…but afterwards was the best! Jenni and Rachel got this huge ice
cream cake from Dairy Queen for my bday! It was sweet! I blew a ton of
candles out and we all ate and hung out! It was a load of fun!
 
January 17, 2005 – Monday
I spent the entire AM at CSF for our leadership meeting. It went really
well. Actually early in the morning I went over to Dave Burkum’s house
to talk about the outreach aspect of CSF. Candace was also there. That
was very enjoyable. Later that day we all met at the center to share
our ideas and goals for the future. It was a good, simple, and
knowledgeable retreat!
In the PM I stayed to practice with the music band for Wed. I’m so excited for CSF!!!! Our band rocks! Praise G-d!
 
January 18, 2005 – Tuesday
Can’t remember much about today…oh I guess it was the 1st day of school
for most people today. As most of you know – I’m taking this semester
off to work more. I got a little raise and I got some benefits now too
– plus I can’t afford to go back to the U so I really had no choice.
I’ll still be on campus at least Wed, Thur, and Sunday nights for CSF
and MacLaurin!
Other than that…work was good. Muhamad and I got to go back to Maple
grove to finish the ship out that we got “blamed for” last week (before
figuring out that it wasn’t our fault of course)! I met the supervisor
for the project – Dan. I saw he had a ring with the Christian fish on
it so I asked him about it and it was cool to listen to his testimony
and to hear how he came to DRC, etc. What a cool guy! I think my
parents and him and his wife would get along pretty well. Maybe I’ll
invite him and his wife over for dinner sometime…
I had a meeting at Wooddale that evening with my CSF buddies Rebecca,
Candace, and Eric! We got there late, but got pizza and pop! Then
Rebecca took us to McDonalds for twist cones afterwards ;) good times!
 
January 19, 2005 – Wednesday
Today was the 1st CSF night of the semester! We moved locations to
McNeal Hall on the St. Paul campus. I really enjoy it actually. It’s a
nice environment. We had a great turnout, awesome music, and a great
message from Brad. My small group was also pretty sweet! G-d is so
awesome!
 
January 20, 2005 – Thursday
I went back to Maplegrove to finish the ship-out with Muhamad. Doug
introduced me to Shawna Clark from the PR/Marketing Department for DRC.
It nice to finally meet her and find out more about her occupation and
what she does in that field. I asked about internships and she
introduced me to the current intern, Jessi, who’s friends with the
daughter of the owner of DRC. We talked for quite a while about her
job, her goals, and life. It was pretty cool to finally get a foot in
the door in this department.
 
January 21, 2005 – Friday
Today was Lydia’s 18th Birthday. After work I went home to hang out
with her for the evening. I was supposed to go on campus for a surprise
bday for Ali – but alas, we had a snowstorm, Andrea cancelled it, then
“un”cancelled it…but I decided by then that I was gonna stay home. It
was prolly good that I did since I don’t get to spend a whole lot of
time with my sister. So that was fun!
 
January 22, 2005 – Saturday
I ended up working 11 hours today at work to keep workin’ on a ship out
due by Tuesday. I was able to work both shifts which rocked! I think I
got about 3 hours of overtime in there since last Monday was a holiday.
 
January 23, 2005 – Sunday
Church was pretty good. Sermon I can’t really remember sadly. Ask me
sometime about my theory and opinion on “church!” I intrigue myself
when I talk about it sometimes!
It was Ali’s B-day today! I think it was this night I took her out to
Panara downtown after work and caught up on life. They have free
wireless internet too!!! I got a PB and J sandwich…which I know sounds
so original…but it’s quite unique if ordering it from Panara! Ever
thought about that? So yeah that was a good time!
 
January 24, 2005 – Monday
Work was ok. It was a Monday…haha
After work though I went over to CSF for a meeting with Candace, Eric,
and Rebecca. We just talked about our strategies and plans for the
upcoming coffeehouse with Wooddale. It went pretty well! I go to CSF a
lot I think…lol
After that was over I went down to Southtown to hang out with Lance! We
went to Chipotle, but then decided to go next door to Caribou instead.
We talked for quite a while about our lives, and just got caught up on
things. We had some great discussions. It was cool to see how G-d was
working in Lance’s life. We did some Scripture searching, and talked
about communion and predestination, among other topics! I love that guy!
 
January 25, 2005 – Tuesday
I showed up to work early today. Lawrence wanted people to get here an
hour early if possible so we could finish up the shipout due today. I
got there early with maybe 3 other people…we got started right away and
the shipout was finished on time! Praise G-d! I also showed up to work
right on time. I love how G-d just works those things out! One minute
later and I don’t know if I woulda got overtime or not…
 
 


January 26, 2005 – Wednesday
Another good day at work…can’t remember much of the actual work day,
but I know CSF was great! Greta’s friends came that night. I believe
Eric, her friend, is Jewish…so it was neat to get his perspective on
CSF! The music was a lot of “fun” I guess. We played “I’m a believer”
from Smashmouth! Haha! Brad’s message was good, and everything flowed
pretty well! I love my small group as well!
 
January 27, 2005 – Thursday
Yep – Today was the best day by far this week!!!!!!!! Work was great!
We didn’t have much to do today at DRC. Lawrence gave me another key
card for the building…but this time with my picture on it! I guess I’m
official now ;)
I watched Alien V. Predator a couple times….played pinball on my
laptop…and just hung out! It was great! I love my cousin Dan too! It’s
been nice being able to talk to him about lots of stuff. I really
respect him (unless we’re both working…since I actually “work” and
Dan…well…at least he gets paid)! Haha!
Anyway the best part of the day was tonight! We had a coffee house
thing at the UofMN. When I say “we” I mean Christian Student Fellowship
sponsored Wooddale’s college group at church to host a coffee house on
campus in the main student center. They had a couple bands come and
play music, while we talked, socialized, and made new friends. It was a
great environment! Karin came!!!!!!!!!!!!! That was so great! She came
with her band from NWC so it was so nice to meet them and to catch up
with Karin! I missed her so much! Also Katie Muska from NWC came and
her friend Naomi Otterness! It was so great to see them again as well
from back in the day at Grace Church! Also Katie Harvey came! She was
actually one of the first people there tonight! Oh it was so much fun!
After the awesome music, and giving Katie and Naomi a tour of Coffman,
I helped break down the stuff, and then Rebecca dropped me off at my
frat. I gave her a quick tour of the place before she left! That was
pretty cool. Couple people thought she was in a sorority! Haha! So that
was the bulk of my day! Now I’m talkin’ to Cassie! 19 more days ‘till
she comes to visit! I’m SOOOOOO excited! I’m so tired I think I’m just
gotta crash here at my frat tonight. I think the “party” is dying down
outside. I have no idea where Jollie is so I guess I got the room to
myself ;)
G-d bless!
 
January 28, 2005 – Friday
Today was another memorable day. I almost made it to work on time! almost…J
Lawrence never came in to work today. That was sorta odd…considering he
practically lives at DRC! I hung out with Marsha and Katie and watched
“The Forgotten” while Marsha kicked my sorry butt in pinball! I guess I
have a new challenge now! We really didn’t have much for work today but
I was able to get a little bit of my own work done. Al called me and is
doing well. He’s back at home now with his parents and his dad is doing
really well. Praise G-d for that! I’ll prolly hang out with him later
on tonight. I have a CSF ice-skating thing that my cousin Mary and I
put together. I hope a few people show up! It should be a blast!
We had an hour lunch today so I decided to drive around and explore.
Gas is really expensive now. It’s almost 2 dollars! I put maybe 10 bux
in and then drove around for a bit. I talked to Marni on the phone for
a few minutes. I guess she’s been hangin’ out with Dave Clutter’s kid?
Dave is on KTIS (98.5) for those of you who don’t listen to “the Drive
with Dave” every afternoon ;)  So I guess Marni’s going to the
T-Wolves tonight with Dave, his kid, etc…and Building 429 is gonna be
puttin’ on an hour concert after the game! Cool huh?! However I
personally find ice skating to be much more enjoyable ;) Even though I
pretty much suck at ice skating!
Presently I’m writing this entry on my computer while waiting for an
“orientation/benefits” meeting with Lea Bennett from DRC. I’m in the
conference room by myself while Lea’s running a bit late. I’m sure this
will be quite enjoyable (or boring…though I’m not an advocate for
boring meetings). I’m sure either way I’ll learn something (hopefully).
I have about a page of questions typed up to which Nancy from HR
couldn’t answer me last week (lack of knowledge even after 15 years I
guess), so I hope to get those questions out of the way as soon as I
can!
Well I’m sure I’ll wrap up this entry after tonight’s events! G-d bless! Shalom.
…ok so my meeting went well! It was a little boring but I tried to keep
it on the light and humorous! I think I did a pretty good job ;) We
talked about insurance policies, benefits, etc…but at least I got paid
for learning about it! So that was a big plus!
After work I went over to Mary’s house and chilled there for a while.
Guess what?! Auntie Sue gave us money to go to APPLEBEES! So Mary and I
went there and at like royalty. Blondies are really good by the way ;)
Afterwards we went over to the CSF center to meet everyone else for ice
skating! We had a pretty decent size, with Mary, Jenni, Andrea, Sarah,
Jose, Dani, Michael, Amy (who I met on facebook…from the previous Bible
class I was in), and myself! I hope I didn’t forget anyone…
Ice-skating was great!  I never completely fell down, though I tripped a few times ;)
We had a great time there I think! Spinning in circles, racing, pushing
others on ice-sleds?, etc.! Yeah it was a lot of fun. Of course Dani
schooled us all since she’s skated professionally before!
After skating we went back to the center, where Mary, Dani, Amy, Mihai,
Eric and myself played Guesstures and Taboo. It was just loads of fun!
Also – Andy Huston turned 23 today! Happy Birthday Andy!
 
January 29, 2005 – Saturday
Saturday was pretty restful day for me. I was able to sleep in and
relax a little bit. After I woke up and took a shower, I went back to
my frat to chill for most of the day. Al was busy or else I woulda hung
out with him. Jollie and I had some good talks though. When late
afternoon came about, I went over to visit Grandpa Al for his 80th
B-day. I saw a lot of my relatives over there from my dad’s side. It
was really cool! We talked about Cassie’s visit soon, and talked about
my life in and out of college as well. It was quite enjoyable. I don’t
think everyone on this side of the family is saved, though they know
the Truth. I guess prayer and love is pretty much the only things I can
do right now for them…
My family showed up shortly after I did and we hung out and socialized
for a while. I left not long after the rest of my extended family, so I
could go over to Cassie, Stina, Candace and Greta’s place. We watched
the Star Wars trilogy (old school ones) over the course of the night. I
only stayed for the first two movies before I decided that I needed
sleep before church the next morning!
I called Cassie and talked to her while I drove home, and then got almost enough sleep for the next day ;)
January 30, 2005 – Sunday
Church was great today! We talked about having a radical trust in G-d.
We’re going through the O.T. right now and I was reading how a king
‘did what was right in the eyes of the L-rd” but yet he left the idols
of worship in their place. Because of this, G-d struck him with leprosy
until the day he died. I figured the moral of today’s sermon was this:
If you decide to trust and follow G-d, go all the way and not just part
of it. You can be either hot or cold, but not lukewarm. G-d wants
everything of yours. He wants your heart most of all! Interestingly
enough – I can apply this lesson to the rest of today’s as well…
After the service the college group (led by my parents) went to Caribou
to chat. It was hilarious! My mom wasn’t feeling well this morning so
she missed church. So the group turned out to be me, Jon, Caleb, Dad,
and yes…Joey! Haha. Joey really made today’s chat very memorable. All I
have to say is “Yahoo ID”…enough said!
After church we went home, had Subways, and I relaxed online for a few
hours. I met a girl named Cat from, sadly, hotornot…though it was her
that wanted to “meet me”. I guess she had the option where she could
email her “matches” and did so today.  It turns out she’s a
freshman at Crown College, who knows my friend Madison, as well as my
friend Saba in Hebrew class! How weird is that?! So we talked for quite
some time about G-d and life until she had to leave for work, and I had
to leave for CSF. I met some friends from CSF at the center and we went
over to the Children’s Gospel Mission downtown where we sang songs,
played games with the kids, and made pizza! It was a great time! My
cousin Mary went, as well as Jenni, Rachel, Gina, Bryce, Josh (who
missed church!), and Katie Larson.  It was just a great time to
hang out with kids who needed attention from people like us, and to
share with them the love of Christ. It was just so great!!!
After the fun pizza party we went back to CSF and hung out. Mary, Bryce
and Gina left, but the rest of us went to Lorie’s coffee shop a block
from the center to hang out before “Deeper” that night. We ended up
going around the table, asking one person questions about themselves
until we got all the way around. It was pretty neat too, getting to
know each other a little bit better…J
After our time at Lories, we headed over to the Saint Paul Student
Center for “Deeper”. The music was so great! We sang a bunch of good
ole worship/praise songs, then Brad gave a super message! He talked
about us giving G-d everything. He asked if G-d had our inner heart, or
only something external (like my fingers?!). The 2nd part of his
message was on AIM (which I totally thought was aol instant messenger)
but which stood for “Aspiration, Intentions, and Means.” He spoke of
how we need to “aspire to be transformed and taught by Jesus Christ as
[we] intentionally practice specific disciplines that serve as a means
for spiritual growth by God’s gracious provision.” They all work
hand-in-hand, not separately, and not partially. It sorta flowed from
the previous message I heard earlier that day in church. It was great!
G-d is so awesome how stuff like that works out!
After CSF I went out with Rachel to Baker Square. We had some excellent
conversations! We mostly talked about relationships, friendships, and
how they should be developed, dealt with, and brought about…etc. I
suppose that’s what we talked about in a nutshell. Yep, good times!
Rachel got the last piece of French Apple Cream Cheese! Ahhh! Lol jk
Rach ;) I got like caramel apple a la mode ;) Good times!
After that I just went home, talked to Cassie for a little bit, and went to bed. 16 more days ‘till Cassie comes!
 
January 31, 2005 – Monday
Well another day at work….lol! I woke up on time again (thanks to my
alarm clock and my mom) and I made it safely to work as well. It’s
snowing today, but it’s not as bad as a snowstorm (nor as calm as a
“flutter”).  Doesn’t look like we have much work again today! So
praise G-d!
So my boss just showed up…with a couple snowballs in hand. By the way,
he plays softball all the time in season, and he’s got a really nasty
fastball!
He chucked a couple snow chunks at the guys in the warehouse. Well when
Lawrence looked the other way one the guys nailed Lawrence on the side
of his face! It was so perfect! Lawrence just chucked another ball at
‘em and said “well you got your lucky shot…out of the hundred before”
and walked off! Oh that was priceless! So yeah at work we’ve got these
150lb-200lb slates laid out – like a dozen of ‘em. The owner Russ has a
lot of money – and I guess he got a lot of these slates imported from
India last year for wall in his house. Rumor goes he didn’t like them
so he ordered another set. I guess each crate with maybe 10 slabs costs
around 50,000 dollars! So that’s like 6,000 a slab! All of this for a
wall and fireplace J
So anyway – these slabs that are laid out are from the extra 2 crates
that Russ didn’t want. So his neighbor Julie came by, brought the
warehouse Krispy Kremes, and Lawrence (my boss) and I loaded up a few
slabs into her expedition. She asked me about my Hebrew hoodie (go
Children 18:3!) so we ended up talkin’ a little bit about a bunch of
stuff! It was pretty cool!
So on break here my aunt and I talked about Cassie coming to visit! I’m
so excited! I just found out that I’ll have the Monday off when she’s
here! How cool is that?!
….so after work I drove to campus to pick up Jenni to take her to
Godfathers Pizza. We got there and I figured out that if we waited like
45 minutes, we could eat at the buffet and save like 4 bucks! So we
drove around for a while and even stopped by my grandpa’s house for a
little while. He was pleasantly surprised when we arrived. It was good
to see him again. The buffet though was sweet! Gosh I felt like I was
gonna put ‘em out of business! Haha! Jenni and I had some good talks
and then I took her back to my place to meet Al and to watch The
Village! I already saw it but hey…I figured I would enjoy watchin’
Jenni and Al get freaked out! Well I guess that wasn’t the case – lol!
So we hung out at my place for a while after the movie, then Al and I
went outside to throw snowballs around. We tried draggin’ Jenni into
our little immaturity but she was quite resistant. Then Al tried
pushin’ me into a snow bank…and after much resistance myself…he decided
to just jump on me and we both ended up in the snow! Haha
Afterwards I dropped Jenni back off at her place, went over to Elana’s
for a few minutes to give her a break from studying, then I went back
home…Al came back over…and played the cube at my place ‘till I fell
asleep! I really made the most of that day!
 
February 1, 2005 – Tuesday
Today I made it to work again on time! wow! Haha
Again – no work today – so I brought Al’s cube and plugged it into my
laptop. It’s really sweet! I think this was the first time I really
tried out my laptop as an external screen!
My cousin Dan just left from work not too long ago. He’s going home to
pack and stuff and to workout a little more before leaving to Chicago
tomorrow. He’ll be trying out for the NFL there so prayer is much
appreciated. This is pretty big for Dan.
Currently I’m chattin’ online with Katie S…talkin’ about school, schedules…and more school :P
(later that day…lol)…
Work went really well today. My boss ended up having a 15 min. meeting
with us during the last 10 minutes of our shift…gosh! I mean we weren’t
working all day! Why prolong it! Haha oh well! Praise G-d for no work ;)
After work I went home for a short while, ate pizza (again), and then
went to New Brighton Church to watch my friend Candace get baptized. It
was really neat. This church is my grandma’s church that she went to
when it started I think. I guess Brad – the CSF youth pastor and the
guy who baptized Candace – I guess my mom was his Sunday school teacher
at this church too! How crazy is that?! So the baptism went well. Eric
sang a few of Candace’s favorite songs, Candace gave a brief testimony,
Eric played Micah 6:8l, then since the crowd was pretty small, we just
went on the stage in front of the baptismal as Brad baptized Candace.
After that Dave Burkum spoke a little bit and then prayed with Candace
and the rest of us. After Dave’s talk, we just fellowshipped for a bit
before going home. On my way out I noticed a table full of free books.
A guy that went to that church still (Brad’s dad) said I could take
whatever I wanted! I found an out-of-print book called the “Search of
Noah’s Ark,” another book about the Menorah which my grandma lent me
and is still currently on my bed at home, and then I got a book on the
Jewish holidays and feasts and their Christian meanings! So that was
pretty sweet.
On the way home I talked to Ed from church who wanted me to play
keyboard for the men’s retreat coming up. I told him I couldn’t because
of prior commitments to CSF on that weekend but it was nice to catch up
with him. I guess I went over my cell phone minutes…that kinda stinks.
Praise G-d for free evening and weekend minutes! I have 5 days left
anyway – so it’s not that big a deal!
The rest of my evening I spent talking online with Kaila!! and my other
friends, and then practically fell asleep talking to Cassie on the
phone! 15 days ;)
 
February 2, 2005 – Wednesday
It seems like I always start these entries with work…since that’s
usually where I am when I start writing these. So I thought I would try
to alter that.  Oh  my friend Ashley Stich is going to
Australia to study abroad this semester. I think she leaves today. So
please keep her in your prayers. I believe my friend Beka is leaving
Thursday as well!
 
My mom woke me up today! I got to work (haha) on time again! That’s so
awesome! The weather is really nice right now – over 30 degrees! How
cool is that (no pun intended)!
I didn’t do much in work today until the last hour (again). It’s funny
how that works out. But I saw Dan from Maple Grove. He’s supervising
this project that I worked on today. So it was nice to catch up with
him again. I really love my job! No complaints there! I have CSF later
tonight ;)
….so yeah CSF went really well. After work I tried getting hold of Mary
but she was in class when I called so I headed over to the CSF center
to hang out. Mary texted me and we ended up going to Pizza Hut on
campus and getting one of those new “strips pizzas”? It was pretty
good. We brought it back to the CSF center, hung out, talked about
churches…etc…
           
Here’s a good one! So Dave Burkum walked in after we were about done
eating and told us one of his many wonderful ideas! He suggested
formulating a new church. This church would probably start out small;
maybe even in a home. But the ministry of the church would be “we live
off of a tenth of a tithe” or something like that. There would be no
need for a “full time” music leader or staff of any kind. Those would
be taken care of by the people of the church. 90% of all the tithes
coming from the congregation would be given to missions work! Can you
imagine having a total yearly income tithe of $100,000? $90,000 would
be given to missions work such as Reign Ministries, the Tsunami Relief
Effort, even CSF! How amazing would that be?! No more worrying about
where our tithes go! They all go to missions! The other 10 percent
would fund a small building after moving out of a home. If G-d blesses
the church with many people, maybe we could fund a part time
coordinator. Who knows?! Maybe one day the yearly tithes would total to
a million dollars! Look at what we could! See the possibilities!
Now…someone just has to do it! I’m all for it actually! I can’t do it
alone though! Who’s up for helping?! Maybe it’s something down the
road…who knows?! But it’s a great idea!
            So
yeah! CSF went well. I helped set up like usual, played a few songs
(including Free Ride from Audio A) and Brad’s message was also very
interesting – having to do with true success in life. So it was pretty
sweet overall! Not to mention the tasty brownies afterwards! After CSF
I gave Ehud (from Hebrew class last semester) some tips on playing the
keyboard ‘cause he’s taking an intro to keyboarding class with the same
Asian chic I had last semester! So we worked on that for a bit, then I
dropped him off at Rosedale where his car was, and we spent a few
minutes going over some verses in the Tanakh that Cassie gave me for my
bday a while back! It was a great night! I drove home, talked to Katie
on the phone for a while, then got a call from Jenni and we ended up
talkin’ ‘till I got home. After I got home, I tucked myself in bed,
quick checked email…and Cassie was online! So we ended up talking on
the phone until I started passing out! 14 days!
 
February 3, 2005 – Thursday
Today I actually got to work early!!! How cool is that?! Haha! I did
some work for maybe an hour before coming back here to keep writing and
to chat a little bit with some aim friends. G-d is so good and has been
blessing me a lot with some really great friendships and also just a
great life in general! I feel humbled when I realize how insignificant
and undeserving I really am. The fact the G-d loves me is truly a
mystery of it’s own……wow.
oh Bethany! I finally left you a message!