Joe's Archives1

Oh I really love February.
Not only does it involve my birthday (2/3), but also my mom’s birthday (today: 2/13), and Valentine’s Day (2/14). I really appreciate all the friends I have made on campus and wanted to take the opportunity to acknowledge their influence in my life.

First, I went to the store and found a nice card for my mom’s birthday. Then I bought a bag of Hershey kisses and a large stack of 3 x 5 index cards. In a time when most people are sharing Valentine’s Day with one special person, I continue to celebrate a revised elementary holiday. I made 40 Valentines.

Beginning on Thursday, I made a point to creatively deliver these special notes. So far, I have seen a great response from the recipients and I only have 4 more to deliver. Seeing the surprise on their faces and recognizing the joy that comes from being appreciated makes me smile. Yes, it is more blessed to give than to receive and the more love you give, the more you have to give.

I was having a great time passing out these notes when I decided to go to the mail room and see if there was anything for me. Of course, I had already received a Valentine from my mother and several birthday cards. To my surprise, there were two letters in my box. Both contained personal messages of love and remembrance.
Thanks Cathy Warren and Laverne Avila and family for your cards. They were great.

And to top it all off …
there is another special package from mom
and a valentine from Virginia Parker and family.

So, find some special way to demonstrate your love for someone. It will bless them and you might even receive a blessing for yourself.

This week has been pretty good actually. It still feels like things are going to be harder, and I wonder if I will be able to keep up. But I just remind myself that I don’t have to have all the answers now. I can live one day at a time.

Yesterday was my 19^th Birthday. I had already received a few emails and cards from family, friends and church members. I even received a box from my friend, Natalie, in Singapore. But on the day itself I was feeling kinda lonely. After finishing my courses for the day I went back to my dorm room and took a nap. Then I went to work, where my tutee did not show up. At this time, I called my friend, Krystal, who said we could get together later, but she was busy shopping or something. I went back to my dorm room and did some homework. After this, I was watching TV in Lui’s room and he coaxed me back to my room where SURPRISE! Many friends were crammed into my room, they had party poppers, balloons, and a cake. They had remembered, and were ignoring me the entire day so that they would not give away the surprise. Attached are some pictures. Krystal, Briana, Louie, Melissa, Sally, Natalie, Lori, and Mark were all in attendance. As you can see by the look on my face I was quite happy and very surprised.

Briana

Sally & Natalie

I also wanted to say thanks for the emails, cards and letters that I have been receiving. A couple I can remember are the Springer family, Santillans, Grandpa Clock, Grandma and Papa Fugate, Auntie Bev, Aimee Grace Sayre, Pastor Wesley, Mom, Dad, Daniel, Natalie, Marillis, Lora and Valera Pavlenko, Mary Chase, Amanda Harlan, Eva, Krazy Al Warren. If your name isn’t on the list, you just gotta send me more letters. Please keep them coming, cause I love to hear what you are doing and I helps me to feel loved and connected.

These last few days have been more manageable. On Thursday I made the decision to drop my Ceramics class and focus on my more important classes. I want to do them well. That gave me some momentary relief, but I am still not fully at peace. At least I have more time to do homework.

Today I went to Magnolia Avenue Baptist Church and arrived as the sermon was beginning. Today’s title was The Road to Recovery – Step 1 Stepping Into Freedom.

Although I had been feeling kinda fearful for my future and anxious about present situations ( with classes, homework and life track) I had not put all the pieces together. Today’s sermon was an opportunity for God to minister to me.

I was challenged the REALIZE I’m not God. Of course I know that I am not perfect and I can’t seem to keep things together. But the other part is understanding that I don’t have to control my own life. I was never intended to control myself and when I begin to think that I can control my image, other people, my problems or my pain for my own selfish reasons the consequences are fear, frustration, fatigue, and failure.

I had not felt that I was denying God’s role in my life, until I heard those symptoms and remembered how I had been feeling. I have been feeling afraid, frustrated, fatigued and that I would eventually fail. This brings the question, How am I praying? I have not been saying God, Your will be done. But rather, God, help ME to Control my life.

The balancing ideas are 1) God should control my life and 2) I should be obedient to His guidance and diligent in my pursuits. God’s ownership of my life does not eliminate my workload, but it focuses it on what is worthwhile and manageable. I must do what God tells me to do, and trust Him.

Today I had an alright day. I was able to make 2 bowls in ceramics as well as take a Calculus test and find some articles for my upcoming English work.

I saw Curt Estel and his wife Vi in the Cafeteria while I was enjoying a lovely meal with my friends Briana, Jasmine and Lui. Vi and Curt are so encouraging. Vi reminded me that it is alright to be up and down, it helps me to appreciate the ups.

I am beginning to realize that the courses I am enrolled in are not what I expected. I had been under the impression that I was doing school as I had always done school. That it would take some time, but that I would catch on quickly and run my way through it.

Today I had an amazing insight. I am uncovering the true titles of my classes. This semester the subjects are not Physics, Math, Bible and English, no no. Those have been learned before.

This semester I am studying patience, perseverance, humility, faithfulness, self-control and peace. Yeah, I realize that this sounds a bit dramatic, but if I focus on these lessons, I will gain a valuable education.

    His divine power has given us
     everything we need for life and
    godliness through our knowledge of
    him who called us by his own glory
    and goodness. Through these he has
    given us his very great and precious
    promises, so that through them you
    may participate in the divine nature
    and escape the corruption in the
    world caused by evil desires.

    For this very reason,
         make every effort
        to add to your faith goodness;

    and to goodness, knowledge;

    and to
    knowledge, self-control; and to
     self-control, perseverance; and to
    perseverance, godliness; and to
    godliness, brotherly kindness; and
    to brotherly kindness, love.

    For if you possess these
   qualities in increasing measure,

    they will keep you from being
       ineffective and unproductive in
    your knowledge of our Lord Jesus
    Christ. But if anyone does not have
    them, he is nearsighted and blind,
    and has forgotten that he has been
    cleansed from his past sins.
                                   ^{2
Peter 1:3-9}

Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.

Consider it pure joy,
my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does.
James 12:1-9 CLICK HERE

Today I went to the Flipside, a church in a nearby city. The message was based on the movie SAVED! After a healthy video summary

of the major scenes covering the plot, the pastor encouraged us to love others. He used the story of the Good Samaritan and the striking differences between Jesus and the Pharisees to remind us that love should be our first response when we are dealing with each other.
    *see my Dad's correspondence with
        Director Brian Dannelly:CLICK HERE

   It is a very normal reaction for Christians to openly oppose homosexuality and other “major” sins. Yet, most homosexuals already realize that Christians oppose this behavior. They are turned off by this initial a

ttack.

It would be more effective to look at the individual and truly care about people. I know if I have a problem, I like people to care about me. I do not want their first words to me to be condemnation of my actions. The message was not about denying our faith, but about loving people first. All of us have issues and we need to love each other in spite of this.

The Flipside meets in a warehouse. They have rows of c

hairs with couches and a bean bag in the front.

It's one of those new churches for younger people (not exactly what I am used to). Today they were having a small group fair to advertise the new season of weekday small groups. Ranging from Men’s, Women’s, Couples, Youth to Running and Music/Arts. I am planning to go on Thursday to The Orange: Creative Arts Bible Study.

This afternoon I went with my friend and wingmate (we live on the same side of the 3^rd floor), Keith, to his church’s college group get together. We played games, watched a movie, and ate pizza, it was fun. I need to write a letter to my Paul and the Early Church professor to get some insight into his desires and advice for my upcoming paper on “House Churches:” their significance and implications for communal Christian life.

Alright, well that is enough for now. I need to get to my schooling. Write me an email J

This morning I called Curt and Vi Estel to say hello. They invited me to spend the day with them. Vi informed me that her grandsons would be around and they were all going to go to see the movie Racing Stripes. This sounded like a great idea to be around a large group and see a movie on a Saturday. It was nice to be able to play some games with the kids and just get off campus. I was even able to do my laundry. After spending the day with Curt Estel and his extended family (wife, mother, grandsons, sons, and daughter-in-laws) I was dropped off at school by his son, Corey. Corey invited me to go to church with him and his fiancé at the Flipside tomorrow.

Hey Folks:

Today went a little better. In the beginning, I was somewhat frustrated at my Calculus work (and then I looked at all the upcoming assignments for another class: Paul and the Early Church). I will still have several papers to write for that class. (I have to remind myself that I have written plenty of papers in the past and that it will not kill me to write papers, or do the research involved. I just have to take it one step at a time.)

   After that, I went to Ceramics and had fun (It was our first day working on the wheel). That was interesting. At lunch I was invited to sit by some friends, (Lui and Briana). Then they gave me a ride (a very nice gesture since there is no distance between the Cafeteria and the Dorms).

   I was also invited to go jogging with some friends, Briana and Kim. After jogging I went home and one of the churchmen, Tom Lane, called to encourage me.

   I returned to Ceramics and finished some cups that the professor will fire later. (photos coming soon). Then I went to dinner and sat with some other friends, Valerie and Marla (I saw Napoleon Dynamite with her) and Joyce (a new friend).

   After dinner I went to the Math Club meeting where I saw Kao, Jessica (upper classmen) and Dr. Kong, my Math Lab professor. Dr. Kong is originally from Hong Kong. Now I was watching a movie with my Resident Assistant, Daniel, but he is out of the room (and I am using his computer).

I'm lonely here so please write when you can. I welcome your input; I want to invest my life wisely (sometimes I feel like this time at school is all a waste).

Later,

Joe email me

Today has been a very enjoyable day. After I awoke and went to church at Magnolia Avenue Baptist Church, I was invited to lunch by Curt and Vi Estel. I know many of you know the Estel’s and their son Eric from the time that they have spent with our church in the past. Curt still seems to be in good health especially considering the reports that I have heard about cancer. email Curt

Anyways, he seemed like the same healthy Curt to me. We went to eat at a Mexican restaurant called Miguel’s in the mall. Then they dropped me back at my lodging in Smith Hall. At that time they also invited me to join them in for an evening concert in Hemet with the Gary Bonner Singers.

They are an excellent adult choir and tonight Dr. Bonner’s son, Judd Bonner, was conducting. I am interested when sons follow in their father’s footsteps. There are so many things that a father can pass down to his son, but in our time it is not automatic that the son will learn and grow to be like his dad.

This time is a difficult part of my life and I know for my dad also. He has expressed that it is difficult to be without one of his good friends, his oldest son. I miss hanging out with my daddy and helping him with anything. Some people only want to be with their parents when they are doing something exciting, but I have regularly hung out with my dad and just been there with him to do mediocre things like setting up chairs or locking doors.

I know that God has more in store for me; there will be other opportunities for me while I am here at CBU to encourage those who need a little help. I am on the lookout for people who need someone to help with the small things. I was grateful for this afternoon at my opportunity to help Curt and his mother (a little) and I was very thankful for all the attention that this family has shown me.

I am enjoying seeing the new ideas for the upcoming season at the Epicenter. I am still reading dot.com.tom’s blog and pastorob. I am continuing to check on Crazy Al and the What Eva series.

Don’t forget to email me, I get awful lonely and love to hear from anyone out there. It’s 12:30 now, better get to sleep. Glad that I don’t have school on Monday.

Joseph

January 12, 2004 This afternoon has been great. After a kinda tough beginning, I did some Calculus work and then began reading one of my textbooks: Paul and His Letters.

Then I went and had a lovely dinner at the Alumni Dining Commons with some friends. After dinner we went and swam, our pool is heated. It was nice to do some exercise, I like swimming.

I have been checking out Napoleon Dynamite for the upcoming Youth Rally:
The Gospel According to Napoleon Dynamite.

I am finding mixed results. Personally, I really enjoyed the movie and some of its unique characteristics. I enjoy each character for their individual special additions to the movie.

I have been trying to find Biblical elements or scenes that may be used to convey a good message. There is the willingness of Napoleon to assist Pedro, the new student. He does not conform to others’ standards and does whatever he feels like.

Napoleon and Pedro (the new kid) with the cake which has been built for Summer.

I really enjoy watching Kip (Napoleon's 32 year-old brother who chats with babes all day on the internet). I thought of Kip's good fortune as I read m y Dad's blog about Fred McKendry.

OK, I am going to get back to my studies now, but there is plenty of other great things to find on this site. email me if you want, I would love to hear from you.

January 11, 2005

Today I had my first classes of the semester. Then I went to lunch and then to the bookstore to buy my books for Paul and the Early Church. After putting my books away and I went to see the Campus Security to report that my bicycle had been stolen during Winter Break.

Then I walked down Magnolia Avenue. It was a nice sunny day, but I have been feeling a little down.

I saw three different churches: Riverside Baptist Church,
Arlington United Methodist Church, and Lutheran Church of the Cross. I went to each of their offices, but they were all locked and no one came to the door. I decided that I will remain open to the possibility, but I need to focus on my new classes also. I'm carrying 18 credit hours this semester.

January 8^th, 2005

This morning I woke up at 6:00 am to drop Daniel off at the High School for his bus ride to Lodi High School for a wrestling tournament. Later, Mom, Dad, and I joined him.

I was amazed to, once again, see how awesome he is at this sport he has recently joined. He defeated four out of five of his opponents –pinning them for the maximum points. His determination and success at this recent undertaking is giving me even more hope for my own future. I have to remind myself daily that I am in a very good position in life. I am healthy, and have plenty of time to find out where I will be most effective.

In recent conversations with my father, I have received the advice that, when I return to University, I should visit the churches on the street in hopes of gaining favor with the pastors and possibly finding a job. This could be a wonderful idea. I have been working in the church all of my life, it would be a great opportunity for another church to help out a P.K. (a University student) as well as having the assistance of a hard working young adult who has been around church, and knows what it requires. I know that spending time speaking with pastors in my area would not be a waste of time even if it did not provide immediate employment. I would build more contacts and possibly find a great church in which to invest myself.

January 6, 2005

Today is a beautiful day, and it is easy to see many great things in my life. Another day that I could hang out with my dad and I was even able to have a chat with Jim and Doris Fugate.

I just wrote a letter to some new viewers from the Ukraine. Maybe you could write them a letter too? If you would like to write them or view their original letter, click here go to our missions page.

Hello:

Today is a wonderful day. Yeah, I know it may seem dreary with the cloudy sky and everything, but it is nice for me. This morning I woke up to the idea of a nice home cooked breakfast. Yes, we were treated to eggs, toast, hash browns and bacon.

I am looking forward to returning to CBU for my second semester, but still a little uneasy about everything. Just doesn’t feel like anywhere is perfect right now. But I can entrust it all to God, He has never let me down before. I finished my first semester in university with A’s and one B+. I am also relieved to find that my credits I earned as a result of Advanced Placement classes and tests in High School have been applied to my transcript. I am now in the process of sending in my final check to pay for the second semester and getting my transcript from Consumnes River College, where I gained 8 units of Sign Language, transferred to CBU.

I am planning (as I have the last 4 years) to travel with the New America Singers over the summer. We do not have any information yet about where or when exactly this trip will be taking place, but I wanted to begin preparing. I have thought about my expenses at school, how much I make at the Academic Resource Center, and my ability to acquire these additional funds. I had been worried, thinking that this opportunity may be missed as a result of poor planning or laziness on my part. But I have resigned to the authority of God’s word. I will not worry, nor will I be afraid because God is with me and wants everything to work out for the best in my life. I just need to be faithful and continue listening for His voice in my life.

I wanted to recap on some of the events of the past few days. On Wednesday, the 29^ththrough the 31^st, our youth group (18 teens and 5 adults) traveled to San Jose for the California State Youth Conference: Tsunami-Connect. The theme is that as the teens of California and the United States get excited for God, we would experience a mighty tidal wave of His power and the realization that God has equipped our generation with abilities unseen ever before. With the use of the internet, mobile phones and everything else, the world is easier to reach than ever before. Yet, at the same time, we are experiencing the largest percentages of non Christians in the US. So the challenge is to use our time, talents and resources to do what God wants us to do, for the teenagers to step up and make a difference in our schools, churches and ultimately in our world. Soon, the teenagers of today will be the leaders of the world. What kind of world could we have? Either a world that is full of people following God, or the alternative, a world of idolatry.

We were challenged with the fact that humans are designed to worship. They will either worship God, the only one worthy, or waste their lives pursuing stuff or unhealthy relationships.

As well as having some great speakers to challenge the teens to think seriously, there was great worship music, games, and many smaller groups that focused on issues from how to get along with parents, how to share your faith, and how to go about dating.

We had the opportunity to give to two causes. The first was the Tsunami in Asia. The group raised almost $8,000. That is really good for teenagers. The other offering went to helping a Bible School in Mexico move, about $6,000 or so was raised for that.

On Saturday, Dad, Mom and I went to the hospital to see one of my friends, Veda Rackley. Dad worked with her on her memory verses and told stories. It was a very nice visit, and I am glad to know that she is doing better and understand and can respond when we talk to her.

December 27, 2004

Well, It’s been a few days, you know how it is, people don’t like to work on their holiday breaks, but I decided to fill you in on all the details o

f my wonderful holiday season.

On Wednesday night, I had the opportunity to attend another Bible Study at the Greene’s house. It was well attended by the young and old adults alike. We had quite a sweet time reading the Christmas story and exchanging stories, thanking God, and praying for each other. After the meeting, everyone stuck around and fellowshipped over pie, fudge, many other desserts and coffee. At this time, I found the opportunity to spend some time with the little ones. I love to play games with Rachel and her brother. They are such energetic, happy children on Wednesdays.

Friday night was Christmas Eve. I had been asked to play piano on some of the songs. It was easy at first, but later I needed t

o practice to get my fingers to the positions on the keys. I have not really played piano since I left for school, and I was reminded of different things that I had missed while I was away. But, with a little practice and God’s help, the songs sounded beautiful, the story was great as usual, and the candles were wonderful.

    It was wonderful to be home for Christmas. Though there may have been fewer gifts under the tree, I had a better time this year than in recent years. Call it growing up or whatever, but more and more I am realizing that presents don’t really matter. Yes, it is nice for someone to know that you care about them, but material things can only satisfy us on a certain level. Daily attitudes and smiles mean so much more. I was so grateful to be home with my family and just being able to spend time with them. The time is more valuable since I am doing my best not to engage in petty sibling discourses. I am really trying to be genuine and nice, I know my mom appreciates it.

     Yesterday, I awoke to my father’s request (delivered by my mom) that I play piano in the early service. I was sorta tired, but remembered that I really do enjoy the 8:30 service and it would be important to my dad, he would expect me to be there. That is helpful for a young man, to be expected to do what is good. Immediately, I prepared and went. How this reminds me of Abraham, not that it was a big deal, but just the basic act of obedience—knowing that the outcome will be good.

    Yesterday after the first service, I went to a small group meeting that is led by dotcom.tom and Jim Fugate. They are studying through the book of Romans, learning about our guilt under the law and our justification through faith. It is quite a lively group. I enjoyed myself.

    Last night, we had a memorial service for the ever vibrant Miss Polly Kimball (she didn't die--she's moving). She was recognized for her wonderful work with the VBS, Sunday School, and Missions Events. There was much involvement from the congregation as many members stood and spoke about Polly’s good character and what they remembered about her. I also enjoyed seeing the video about some of our Southern Baptist Missionaries in South East and Central Asia and India. Hey, check out some of these other mission pages:

             From Galt to the Ends of the Earth
               Pastors' Vision Trip
                          The Epicenter (re. Tanzania)
                           Liberia

    OK, I think that you are all caught up with Joe, have a Happy New Year. I should be writing soon about the California State Youth Conference which I will attend Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Joseph

Today I have be

en hanging out with my Dad. I awoke at 9:00 am and after a short while was with him in the office folding papers and stuffing envelopes. We are helping Mary Chase (our friend, a missionary to Moscow) send her newsletter to those who she cannot contact on email.

After working in the office for a short while, I went to see my Grandma and Papa Fugate. It was a splendid visit and I was reminded once again of how much my church family loves me and how supportive they have always been.

While away at college, I had been kind of emotional. I am not exactly sure, a mix of homesickness and fear, uncertainty about the future and concern over my abilities. I had been worrying about what I would do to make money and if I would be able once again to travel with the New America Singers. Of course, as my mom reminds me, things have always worked out in the past, even when the future was not clear. And, if I did not travel with the group this summer, that would not be the end of the world.

I have been working at the Academic Resource Center. It is kind of interesting helping students, 7^th grade-adult (with their math and other subjects). Yet, this does not appear as the most effective way to make money; the hours are uncertain and the rate of pay is the state minimum.

Yet, as much as I feel like worrying, I know that there is no need. I keep reading on the Homepage about how our God is in control. We can trust God to run the universe, yet somehow wonder if He can really help us. Anyways, as many people have reminded me, this is just part of growing up. I am thankful that God is allowing me to feel this way and notice His provision while in a safe environment.

Today as I was folding Mary’s newsletters,
I recognized the need to choose a line at which to crease the letters so that they would fit into the envelopes. I noticed that the

place where I needed to fold was the very line where Mary says that she continues to remain focused. This reminded me of the many times I have seen on the website where we are to Focus our lives on something special that God is doing, and also to dotcom.tom’s blog concerning vision and focus. It seems like I do not see very far into the future at this moment, but I am focused on God. I am extra interested in how He will be involved in my life and what ways He will make happen for me. Extra thanks to those who have been praying for me and who have awaited my updates.

I read over a list of stats forwarded to me by my editor. Over 12,200 hits since October 1st and 34 countries. That's great! Appears that this website is really reaching out.

I think that today I will be going to the beach with some guys on my wing. :)

I only have a few finals--Physics and Jesus and the Gospels. In Speech, we have a very small test and in Computers, we will be presenting out Powerpoint project.

I received the care package from fbcgalt. I will make sure to spread the goodwill and goodies. It's nice to be remembered.

Tonight we had another concert at Camp Pendleton. All the seats were filled, and they had Recruits sitting on the floor in the front, and in the aisle. We sang many Christmas songs. It was great.

Today I went to school and first it wa

s Calculus laboratory. I learned how to estimate the area under a curve using a computer program and using my new calculator. Then I was in the same classroom for my next class, computers. We are studying Powerpoint. I have two classmates who will be preparing a presentation with me. We will begin working on it tomorrow. Then I went to Physics class. We learned how to figure out whether objects will float, how to figure out density and buoyancy force.

Then I went to lunch and met with some friends. After which, I tried to take a little nap. After that, I went to the library and worked on my speech for tomorrow. I will be demonstrating to the class how to convert from time in days to time in seconds.

After working in the library, I went to dinner and then I went to the lighting of the Christmas Tree. It was cold, but the choirs were singing about an hour’s worth of music. It was good. Now I am back at the dorm room. I have just finished helping a classmate with math and am talking to my friends on the internet. In a little bit I will go to the gym to play basketball with another friend, Jasmine. I am a bit tired, but I promised her a few days ago and really should spend time with others as much as possible. There is always time to sleep later. I have been having a little bit of trouble sleeping, it is better if I am tired.

I woke up and had two classes, computer (where I presented a project using Microsoft Access to make a database) and physics (where we discussed springs and pendulums). Then I left for the globe in front of the Yea

ger Center--it was time to have lunch with my parents. We decided to go to this lovely little cafeteria I know about, where they serve an all-you can-eat buffet. It was my treat at the Alumni Dining Commons of CBU. We had a nice lunch and then I gave them a mini tour. We went to the Academic Resource center where I work, looked at the library and also visited one of my classrooms. Then we went to my room to get my camera so that Papa could take some pictures for the website. When we were finally finished, we headed to pick out a brand new bicycle for me. It is hoped that having a new bicycle will provide the opportunity to explore more of Riverside, leading to exercise and even more job opportunities. I don’t know about all of these ideas, but it sure has seemed to work for MacDonald.

This morning I woke up a little late, all the other children were gone. Mom was home and she decided to make breakfast for me. How wonderful it was to be home again and have that personal time with my mother also. I also had the opportunity to put in some laundry. Dad was at the church doing some work and then came home to eat breakfast and prepare to go to jury duty. He invited me along. I was excited about the opportunity to be able to go on a drive with my best friend, my dad, though I was still a bit concerned over the prospect of missing more school.

Dad took me to Sacramento, but first we stopped to get coffee. Dad bought me hot chocolate. After we acquired the drinks, we headed out and soon we were in our state’s capital heading toward the courthouse. After a little work finding a parking space we arrived and began waiting for the case to be called into the courtroom. After a few minutes we went into the courtroom where the judge thanked the jurors for playing their part in the judicial system and released them because the case had been been resolved differently.

So, I called mom and told her to be ready ‘cause we would soon be home and ready to leave for Riverside. By the time we got back home, mom was finished folding my laundry and had baked me some delicious chocolate chop cookies to take back to school with me. We hit the road and listened to sermons and Christian music.

Sunday, Nov. 28:

Tonight, I went to see Randy Stonehill at the church. He was very funny, and yet also had the proper mix of real, heartfelt music to balance. I was encouraged by his music as it impressed upon me a point that I had been hearing for weeks, though all humans go through hard times, God is faithful and helps us.

When I first came home to Galt, I was under the impression that I would return to Riverside on Sunday night after Randy Stonehill’s concert. That would mean a long, late night trip. Instead, my dad ended up having jury duty and so the plans changed. Since we would not be leaving on Sunday night, mom and dad had the opportunity to spend some time after the concert with Randy Stonehill.