Updates for 2004Q1 can be found in   http://www.bolzern.org/journals/vj2004Q1.html

Updates for 2003Q4 appear below with the latest information at the top.

Thursday, December 11, 2003  1:00 pm

I'm fondly remembering yesterday evening.  The Boyd family from school invited us to dinner.  They'd showed us southern hospitality.  It's so wonderful to see children being taught the southern manners I grew up with.  We had a wonderful dinner with deep fried chicken, vegetables including green peas (our favorite)

Tuesday, December 9, 2003  6:00 pm

We had a strange day at school.  It started snowing yesterday afternoon.  Mark and I didn't think it was too bad when we went to our Spanish class.  However, when we arrived at school this morning, we found out that some people had received word that school was canceled.  Others, like ourselves, showed up.  We have a lot of students from warmer climates; they were pretty freaked out as this was the first snow that actually stayed on the ground for a few hours.

Anyway, they allowed us to take tests if the office had the tests.  So Mark and I got one out of the way.  Make ups will be next Tuesday.  After tests were finished, Linus, the head of the school did a teaching in the big classroom.  That was optional, Mark stayed and I went home.  Mark came home in time for us to leave for the Helpline.  

Monday, December 8, 2003 4:10 pm

We spent the afternoon doing errands.  The electric heater we keep in the bathroom died and we've been looking for another small one that is the right size and price.  When we run the small heaters (staying within our electrical voltage allotment), it helps keep the bus warmer so we don't use as much propane.  It's supposed to be 12 degrees tomorrow morning so we wanted to be prepared.  On our way home, we saw Cody Dalton standing at the bus stop.  So we called home and got permission to drive him home.  While he's a resourceful 11 year old,  we don't like to see unsupervised children, especially in the cold and blowing snow.  They don't have a car right now or they would have been picking him up.  The storm coming in made it colder and darker (overcast).

We had one test today and are studying for two this evening before dashing off to our Spanish Class.  The third test is open book so we're not going to worry too much about that one.  Today we found out we have a test in Bible Covenants on Friday.    Tomorrow I will find out what the scenario is for the mock funeral I'll be performing next week.  We have Helpline in the afternoon so tomorrow will be a full day.  

Sunday, December 7, 2003  8:19 am

It's a beautiful morning with temps above freezing.  I'm sure this can't last.  It's just cold enough that the heater has been coming on a lot during the night.  We bought in indoor/outdoor thermometer the other day.  That will help us monitor things a little better.  We're trying to keep our temperatures consistent so we can not freeze our pipes again.

I attended Part One of a seminar yesterday by Raphah Ministries, a new ministry being started by Art and Diane Cunningham, graduates of CBC. The flyer calls it a teaching ministry dedicated to restoring God's people through the healing power of Jesus Christ.  The explanation was that their teaching is to help one identify with the Word of God with emphasis on healing.   They gave basic information directly from the Bible, helping us to relate to Jesus as the one who died a miserable death so we could be redeemed from our sins.  Although the material wasn't really new to me, it was presented in such a way that it made a person think.  It will be interesting to see how they develop their program.

The second half of the Seminar is this afternoon.  Then in the evening we will have another Spanish class.   Somehow I'll need to squeeze in studying for a test which is Monday.  We have tests over the three electives on Tuesday.  So our heads will really be stuck in our books the next couple of days.  I knew there was a reason why we needed to get our New Testament Survey homework done on Friday instead of waiting--it's due on Wednesday.  Granted, we could do it Tuesday evening after we get home from Helpline.  However, I expect the old brain would be mush by then.

Well, I'd better start some breakfast.  It'll be time to dash out to church before I turn around.

Friday, December 5, 2003  3:31 pm

Yesterday was a good day.  My friend Dee Mercier who now lives in Thomaston, GA is in Colorado for a visit to her family and friends.  Dee used to live in Pueblo.  She came with another friend to visit the school.  Then we went out to eat.  It was so great to catch up on the news of our mutual friends in Georgia.  Dee currently works for the ministry which helped me receive healing from Multiple Chemical Sensitivities.  

Then in the evening Mark and I went for our first Spanish Lesson.  We'd heard about this method of teaching from Jalen.  So it was neat to actually see it in action.  The idea is to learn Spanish by hearing and seeing rather than memorizing and conjugating verbs.  First, Jalen told us the story of Adam and Eve using simple vocabulary.  Then we learned some action words and nouns.  Then she made up a story with us as the main characters, using those words.  At the end, then we repeated portions of the story.  It was fun.  Our next lesson is to be Sunday evening.

Wednesday, December 3, 2003  4:57 pm

Amazing the 12th month of the year has come.  Where has the time gone.  A year ago we were just getting started with the CBC Correspondence course.  So much has gone through our brains since that time.  So much can happen in a year.  We appreciate those of you who have shared our journey.

Mark and I have been working on our latest homework assignment.  We're supposed to list the scripture references for the 17 parables that are unique to the Gospel of Luke.  That seems easy but putting it together wasn't as easy as it sounds.  Even various Bible tools and marginal references don't agree.  But we made our individual lists (Mark and I didn't agree on a couple either) and we'll see what the teacher gives for answers.  When I talked to Wayne this morning, he said he mostly was looking to see that people were thinking and considering.

Just talked to my friend Dee Mercier who is visiting in Pueblo from Thomaston, GA.  She hopes to come visit CBC tomorrow.   I hope that she will be able to do so.  I look forward to seeing her; although we've talked on the phone, it's been over a year since we've seen each other.  I'm so glad she still has family in Colorado so has an excuse to come here.  We met years ago at the Rocky Mountain Environmentmental Health Association meetings when we both that Environmental Illness.  It's wonderful that we both have seen healing of that ailment.

Tuesday, December 2, 2003  8:35 pm

We've gotten restarted with school with a bang.  That is, we launched right back in as if it weren't the first day of a holiday.  There's a lot to cover before the school lets out for the year end break.  We've already got several extra meetings and activities scheduled.  Today was our regular day at the Helpline.  We made outbound calls to let people know about a special appearance Andrew Wommack is making at the Pepsi Center this coming Sunday before the Denver Nuggets basketball game.  Apparently the Nuggets invite Christian groups to speak several times a year.  Mark and I have opted not to go but know it will be an awesome event for those who do go.

We got back our two remaining tests from the set prior to Thanksgiving.  I got an Excellent on the Essay and 103 on Counseling (hurray for bonus questions!)  

We started our new Interaction Groups last week.  Today was the second one.  Our current discussion is funerals.  Next week we have to start conducting "pretend" funerals.  Probably tomorrow I'll find out my scenario.  For instance, one lady got the assignment to pretend she's a pastor's wife (she's also ordained).  A woman in her Bible Study group has a non-believing daughter whose non-believing boyfriend is killed while driving while intoxicated.  They ask Carol to perform the funeral because she's the mother's connection to religion. Today in class we went over things to say depending on if the person was or wasn't saved and what type of audience it is.   I doubt if I will ever have to do a real funeral...it's still "good stuff" to know.

Sunday, November 30, 3:35 pm

The remainder of our holiday week has flown.  We had a lovely Thanksgiving afternoon and evening with our friends.  We had Deviled Eggs, Turkey and Gravy, Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Rolls and pie.  As a surprise, they had gotten Bruce Almighty for play for entertainment.  Mark has expressed that he liked it as a movie that has some good lessons.

Since then we've been kind of muddling along.   I went to the gym across town because they have some of the weight lifting machines I'd used in Aurora.  Although I was careful not to make the weights too heavy, the muscles of my back tightened up yesterday.  I went swimming as a way to relax them and still get exercise yesterday.

I'm trying to organize myself for going back to school tomorrow.  We have a week and a half before our elective classes end.  We have three tests on the 9th.  Mark and I have signed up to take a Spanish class.  One of the student's wives teaches Spanish at the school in Monument, CO.  She is willing to teach some of us who will be on the mission trip to Mexico.  We're supposed to finalize the date of the class tomorrow.

Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, November 27, 8:05 am

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!  A day our forefathers set aside to thank God for this country and the blessings he's provided.  I wonder when congress will decide to ban this day because it has something to do with God.  I'm sure going to enjoy it while I can.

Mark and I are planning a leisurely morning--maybe not so leisurely if I can get him to go to the gym with me.  I'd like to work off a few calories before I eat more.  Gary and Deborah Dalton are putting on an old fashioned Thanksgiving for us.  Their original guests had a change in plans; since we didn't go to Salt Lake, we were free to partake of the bounty instead.  We are blessed!

As I lay in bed this morning, I was thinking about Thanksgiving and comparing it to Communion.  This may be a stretch--but we certainly should be communing with God this day.  Last Thursday, the Pastoral class gave communion for the students during Chapel.    Communion is not something we normally do since we aren't a regular church.  I must say it was one of the most unusual and moving services I've attended.  The husband of one of the students recently died; she spoke first about how much it has helped to have Christ in her life.  Another student talked about seeking the will of God in our lives and challenged us to revive our vision.  I wish I could remember details about the bread and the juice without pulling out my notes.  All I can say is that what was said was as good as any given by a full-fledged preacher.  Then another student closed in prayer.

Yesterday evening while Mark was finishing up the work on the sewer system, it started snowing.  There's probably an inch or two outside.  It's a cloudless and sunny this morning.  However, I don't know that we will be playing croquet as Gary has planned.  Mark is hoping to play cards.  I've already put in a bid to sit around the fire with hot drinks while telling stories of our lives.

I hope you have a wonderful day!!!!  Talk to you later...

Wednesday, November 26, 2003  8:15 pm

Mark has spent the day making a valve so we can empty the gray water tank without emptying the black water tank.  The later doesn't fill as fast plus used expensive stuff to keep the odors down and liquify materials.  Originally we were using chemicals but we found some enzymes that are supposed to do the job.

I finally got to the health food stores on the east side of town.  The big ones are all over there.  I've needed more Whey which I use in combination of other things that are supposed to help cancer.

This morning, I told Mark that if I didn't do anything else today, I was going to the gym.  I'm ready to tackle this weight gain.  If I don't, this holiday season is only going to add to the problem.  So I had a nice workout with a couple of cardio machines.  Then did some weight lifting and finished off with slow laps in the pool.

Monday, November 24, 2003, 2:26 pm

We had an interesting weekend.  We had snow Saturday evening.  Trying to get a few things done today.  It's been so nice to be home and not have to dash off to school.

On Saturday evening, Mark and I decided we'd get wild (ha, ha).  We went to a Senior citizens dinner dance.  Mark had seen a sign in the window of the Salvation army.  Although we didn't end up with time to dance, the music was really good with a local band playing Big Band era music.   The meal started at 5 pm.  Howard's Barbecue did this as a way to give back to the community.  

We left at 6:30 to go to the church where the family with whom we are doing the Discipleship Evangelism class has been going.  Mark had seen a banner advertising a  "Holy Ghost service."  We wanted to know what was said in case they asked us questions.  Presumably the sign was to draw people to church and meaning the Holy Spirit is present since the sermon was about God's calling and didn't talk about the Holy Spirit at all.

We got home to discover no water coming out of the hose that sends water into the toilet--or cold water to the bathroom sink.   It thawed yesterday afternoon.  This morning we awoke with no water into our RV.  Despite the heat tape, the water hose from the outside froze.  Hopefully there isn't any damage.  We won't be able to tell until things warm up.  It has thawed sufficiently for us to have water.   

Saturday, November 22, 2003, 3:09 pm

The TV newscasters have been reminiscing about today being the the 40th anniversary of John Kennedy's death.  I supposed most of us over age 45 remember where we were when we heard the news.  One of Daddy's stories that always impressed me was his memory of hearing about the Dec 7th attack on Pearl Harbor.

We're having a snow attack this afternoon.  We had planned to be long gone.  I just realized that I hadn't said much about our plans.    Well, they didn't happen.  We received a phone call that they hadn't been able to get a part; therefore, our trip to Salt Lake (see Nov. 18 below) has been postponed until December.  

We'd been waiting until this trip before moving the bus.  It always takes time to put things away for a drive.  Diesel vehicles need to be driven regularly.  Yesterday after verifying that we indeed were not headed west, we "took a drive" down to the truck stop south of town to fill the fuel, check fluids and run the generator.  We got back after dark when the RV Park office was closed.  Mark and I were attempting to back into our site (like this is something I really know how to direct--Mark says I need to learn hand signals) when fortunately the Park owner showed up to help.  He ended up putting us into the space next to where we have been.  It's a bigger spot so we'll have space to park our cars next to our RV.  In the dark and the cold, we got the water and electricity hooked back up.  This morning Mark leveled the bus and hooked up the sewer hoses.  Fortunately he got it done before the snow really got going.  I did a couple of loads of laundry while talking to my aunts on the cell phone.

Thursday, November 20, 2003 1:00 pm

Some time back I mentioned that Mark and I had been asked to head one of the committees for the upcoming Expand Your Vision (EYV)  event.  Expand Your Vision is a conference to give people an idea of what CBC is about.  Various of the teachers speak.  We're supposed to organize housing with students for people who indicate need.  Besides the fact that housing decreases expenses, staying with students gives prospective students a chance to ask questions about the school.  Last year we stayed at the conference hotel.  However, we went to dinner at Heidi Skaare's apartment.  Her enthusiasm and testimony was an encouragement in making our decision to attend CBC.

Last Friday there was a meeting of all the committee heads.  Today Mark and I met with the EYV directors to discuss our role.  We need to write a mission statement and make some forms.  Monday we have a meeting with the chairman of registration; we'll get the names of people needing housing from her.  We'll provide additional information later if any of you might be interested in coming to the conference.

The good news is:  we got some tests back.  The lowest grade I made was 95.  Haven't gotten back Counseling I and the essay we wrote for New Testament Survey.  We haven't been told how they were to grade our Interaction Group.  Guess I should remember to ask.  Although, I need to focus on the idea of understanding the material rather than focusing on grades.  

Tuesday, November 18, 2003, 9:03 pm

Mark and I are being so blessed with invitations to do things with people that we're fighting the battle of the bulge.  We stopped in on friends yesterday evening and stayed to help eat up their leftovers.  Today one of the students invited us to come to dinner after church; ; we took a rain check for after we get back from our trip to Salt Lake City next week.  Our plans are to install a satellite dish on the top of our bus; this product is in beta testing.

This morning we had the first meeting of the students who will be going on the mission trip to Cuidad Victoria, Mexico.  It's so exciting to be part of something bigger than ourselves.  I believe we leave on the 10th of January, flying from Colorado Springs to Harlingen TX where we will be driven into Mexico.  We return a week later.  We were given projects to do in preparation for the trip.  We're supposed to prepare a simple message; I'm not sure what that entails.  Mark and I are hoping to arrange for some Spanish lessons with a friend who teaches in Monument; we're trying to get a group together.

We also started our new Interaction Groups (IAG) today.  I'm now in the group that learns how to marry and bury.  These IAG are designed to divide the 2nd year class into smaller units where each group studies a specific topic and has to interact.  For instance, Mark had to give a couple of speeches last term.  I'll be learning how to do the duties performed by a pastor.  Although I may never ever do these services, I still think it is neat to learn these things.  Many years ago, right after my brother-in-law  became ordained as a lay pastor, he was required to perform a funeral because the church pastor was out of town.  Since then, he has performed many funerals, including that of my mother.  It was such a comfort to have someone who knew and loved her do the service.

Sunday, November 16, 2003, 9:46 pm

Boy was it a busy weekend!  I had a lot of fun times.  Rebecca James, one of the first year students, hosted a Ladies' Night Out at her home.  About 20 women showed up and had a lovely evening of eating, playing games, talking and dancing.

Then Saturday afternoon, we had the monthly CBC Women's Ministry Tea meeting.  Tara Walton gave a moving testimony of how God had restored her biological father to her life.  She's also formed relationships with her half siblings.

Yesterday evening we had dinner with the Dalton family before they went off to church.  Gary is so excited about the changes they have been making in their lives since they "gave their hearts to the Lord."  He planned to give a testimony; I'll be looking forward to hearing how it went.   I feel awed that God gave us the opportunity to be part of their lives when there was a need.

This evening we had dinner with the Waltons (see second paragraph above).  John needed help with his computer so Mark and I went over this afternoon.  I enjoyed kicking back and visiting with Tara and the children while the guys hunched over the computers.

Friday, November 14, 2003 1:21 pm

Just got home from our day's activities.  We think we did fairly well on the tests.  Guess we'll find out next week.

We have completed our newsletter and are in the process of mailing them out.  We have emailed to everyone for whom we have email addresses.  Printed copies are being mailed as we get them addressed. If you are not on our mailing list, you may access the October/November Newsletter . If you would like to be on our mailing list, please let us know.

Wednesday, November 12, 2003, 7:00 pm

We had a good trip to Denver this afternoon.  Had enough time to stop to buy vitamins.  We take a multivitamin/mineral called Whole Food Complex which we buy from a nutritionist in Aurora.  I've tried a variety of multivitamin products and always go back to that one even though it is fairly expensive.  Our dental appointments went fairly well.  Mark ended up having to have a filling that hadn't been budgeted.

This is "finals" week for the quarter.  We had another test in Counseling I yesterday.  Then today we had to write an essay in New Testament Survey.  We were allowed to choose what we wanted to write about; giving insights we received during the teaching and why this passage meant something to us.   I wrote about Mary with the alabaster box anointing Jesus with her precious ointment.  I have no idea how something like this is graded but I felt pretty good about what I wrote.

Friday we have tests in Living in Abundance and New Testament Church Planting.  I started studying this afternoon while waiting for the dentist.

Saturday, November 8, 2003, 8:02 am

I just noticed a huge motor home pulling out going within inches of my car.  I wish they had asked me to move it.  My heart rate and blood pressure are probably off the charts.

Oh, by the way,  we went to Denver on Wednesday for my quarterly visit to the oncologist and also dental appointments.  I've got a small cavity and Mark has a problem with one of his crowns.  At least that is covered in the crown warranty.  Dr Diab seemed quite heartened that the tumor is continuing to soften.  He says to keep doing what I'm doing.  Since I'm not doing much medical, basically the doctor visits are more for his peace of mind than for mine.  I know I will see complete healing.  

They're training a new doctor so Dr. Diab asked if she could examine me.  She poked and prodded nearly every inch of my body.  After the hysterectomy, one side of my abdomen has remained larger than the other.  I think that's why she was so thorough, making sure all the parts were okay.  It did make me feel comfortable to be checked over.  They did give me another blood pressure medication as what I've been taking doesn't seem to be doing the job; and the higher dosage combined with the one medication I'm taking for the cancer has the side affect of making my hands hurt.  So I didn't like that. 

I'm praying that God will reveal what exactly is stressing me out to cause this latest serge of high blood pressure.  It's had it's ups and downs over this last year.  You may remember it went to normal about January/February for a few weeks.  We took me off the medication with instructions of keeping an eye on it and keep the medication handy.  So I know it can be normal without medical intervention. Please pray with me that I'll find the root of this issue.  Other than the blood pressure, the doctors indicate I'm in excellent condition for a cancer patient.  

Friday, November 7, 2003, 6:15 pm

Yesterday was a good day from start to finish.  I've told you that we are doing a Discipleship Evangelism course with our friends, the Daltons.  It's part of a school assignment to go through the materials with someone.  The idea is that we all learn the basics of Christianity where we can help explain it to others.

They called asking if I wanted to go out to eat with them before our evening meeting.  So we met at the Mason Jar.  Gary and I split the Blackened Trout which everyone else had Chicken Fried Steak.  Then we went back to their house and did our study.  Righteousness by Grace was the topic this time.  We had a good study with the whole family participating.  Afterward, we watched an action movie with lots of car chases.  I was pleased that the sexual innuendoes, etc were minimal and  pleasantly surprised that the language wasn't excessively bad.  I got home at a reasonable hour  and still had some relaxing time before turning out the light.

Connie and I had made a plan for her to work a couple of hours and then come down for a visit.  We've talked on the phone and of course, enjoyed last Friday evening.  However, with family and husbands, it's not the same as "girl talk."  We went to Latte Cafe for a leisurely lunch; I had a coupon which helped.  Then we meandered across the street to the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.  We shivered off the calories on a quick foray into Garden of the Gods.  I wanted to show Connie where we'd had the CBC Fall Walkathon.  Then we took the scenic route through the "Park" back home.   After another hour of talking, Connie left so she could get home around 7 pm.  Hope she makes it.

Thursday, November 6, 2003 1:00 pm

The week was more restful after the hectic weekend.  We got back the Counseling I test that we were all worried about.  I made a 91; the teacher was very merciful.  He gave full credit for partial answers instead of being picky that you had to fill in every blank per question.  Like if you had three of the points instead of knowing all five.  Mark had gone completely blank on one question so his score wasn't quite as good.   The end of this first term is coming up so I anticipate we'll have several tests coming up.  Another one is scheduled already scheduled for Counseling on Tuesday.  Time sure flies when you are having fun.

This morning was pleasant.  School was out for today and tomorrow because the men are off to the Men's Advance (kind of like a retreat).  It's not a required activity but they get extra credit for attending.  The women had a special Brunch with Karen Duncan as a speaker.  She's the Director of Pastoral Care for Woman at New Life Church.  Her lecture was interesting on the Importance of Women to God; examples were women in the Bible to whom God spoke directly or were used in important ways.  The food portion of this activity was great!  They'd been afraid there wouldn't be enough so really stressed everyone bringing a variety.    So of course, we had boodles of food--even one of my favorites (pimiento cheese sandwiches) brought by Penny Irwin.  She let me bring the leftovers home so my stomach is in happy anticipation of dinner.

Monday, November 3, 2003 7:34 pm

It's been an exiting few days.  Mark and I went up to Denver over the weekend to empty the storage unit.  We intended to start on Friday, leaving after school in the freezing drizzle.  We had several delays in leaving and then when we got there, we discovered one of our tires was flat.  We hadn't noticed it because the back tires are double (4 tires on the back).   By the time we finished getting that fixed, we were tired and not especially excited about working in semi darkness.  So we opted to eat out with Connie and Andre Armstrong at Carrabas where there teens Cara and Aaron work.  An added bonus was to find that Zack Griffin also works there.  I hope he passed on the hello message to his mother.  The waiters and hostesses were dressed up for Halloween.  I think Aaron was supposed to be a basketball player; he had his curly blond hair frizzed out into an afro.

(Sometimes I wish I could do that.  My hair isn't curly enough.  Colorado Springs is higher altitude than Denver and apparently dryer.  My hair isn't "straight" but it gives a good imitation of it latelyl--especially when I blow it dry under the hand dryers at the gym.  But the haircut Patty gave me last month was really good; I've gotten so many compliments.)

We had a wonderful evening at the Armstrong's home.  Connie graciously let me do a load of wash.  I'd brought the "Jeans."  After all the contact Mark has had with the ground during his repair efforts on the bus, the jeans needed a thorough washing.  I haven't timed it but the wash cycle on the campground washers seems to be about two minutes long.

We woke up early and as planned, left without waking up the family.  We figured we needed to get an early start since we didn't know what the weather was going to do.  There was a layer of ice on everything.  Well...it was a perfect day.  A little on the cold side at the start.  However, we had our coats and gloves.  We got the truck loaded by about 3 o'clock.    We had decided to do the loading ourselves rather than draft help because we needed to pile things in systematically; we figured it would be cold and boring to anyone not emotionally involved.

We only had a few incidents.   Early in the day, we had taken the drawers out of the filing cabinet to load it first.  Mark had been sliding the cabinet to the doorway.  We had a lack of communication.  I was standing behind when suddenly he picked it up, bashing me in the face.  Fortunately, no sharp corners hit any vital spots; no blood was drawn.  However, my face still is bruised and hurts if I move certain muscles.  Mark dropped a piece of metal shelving on his toe (wearing sandals); praise God he still has all his toes.  The third incident was that we expected to leave behind the wood we had on the floor.  Part of the storage unit suggestions is that you store your boxes on some type of wood.  When we went to check out, they told us we had to remove it.  By this time we had no space left.  Our minds cast about for someone with a truck that might be available on a Saturday afternoon.   We decided to drop by Sears and see if Ed Shelton was working.  He told us he was going to leave work in a few minutes to go to a dinner meeting the ushering team (for Hosanna Christian Fellowship) was having.  He invited us to go along.  So we picked up Ed's wife Christine, hurried back to storage, loaded the wood and went to the meeting.  It was so nice to see some of our friends again and also nice to have dinner.  Connie had invited us to stop in on the church cell group that was meeting in her home that afternoon; however, timing was late enough by the time we'd located Ed (and truck) that it wasn't logical to do that.  But it's always nice to be invited.

Mark and I got home and were able to get to bed at a decent hour.  The highlight of Sunday was that our friends the Daltons greeted us with the news that they had committed to God and asked to be baptized.  So we joined them at Soul's Harbor Church where they are now attending.

This afternoon turned out to be "exciting."  We thought we had a quiet time slot to work on our newsletter (hopefully out some time next week).  We'd just sat down when a neighbor knocked saying he thought he was having a heart attack and could we get help.   Needless to say, it was a learning experience to deal with the 911 dispatcher and answer questions about someone you hardly know.  Mark spent the afternoon at the hospital.  Dave did return home after receiving some treatment. It apparently wasn't a heart attack; I'm sure it was scary nonetheless.

Thursday, October 30, 2003, 2:57 pm

Mark got in during the wee hours of Sunday morning.  It was nice so he could go to church with me.  Afterward we went to lunch with Ed and Jalen Waltman at a Vegan restaurant in Manitou Springs.  They were happy to find people who didn't think they eat weird.  Although I much prefer meat to tofu, my opinion is that one can find something on the menu that is edible and it's only "one meal."  I had a black bean burrito which was quite good.  Mark had a portbello mushroom steak (no meat, just mushroom).

Frankly, I don't know where this week has gone.  We've been keeping busy with general activities.  We had our heater serviced on Wednesday.  Decided we needed to have it checked out before cold weather really hits (see next paragraph).  Yes, the rumor that we had snow last Saturday is true.  It was very light and didn't stick.

Winter is in the process of arriving in Colorado.  Yesterday was a beautiful day with temperatures close to 80 degrees.  We sat outside talking to the heater man and my shoulders got sunburned--that'll teach me to wear a tank top in October.  This morning, we awoke to overcast skies and coolish.  I told Mark it didn't look like it would warm up.  We took a drive out to the Garden of the God's Trading Post.  The mountain tops were encased in clouds this afternoon.  We set our heater to about 50 degrees so it'd come on today if it got too cold.  It was about that in the "house" when we got home.  It did kick on after I went in and out a couple of times.  We've heard that snow is forecasted.  We hope it won't since we're going to be excavating our storage unit this weekend.

Mark and I are working on our October newsletter.  We're a little on the late side.  It'll probably be next week before we actually get it into the mail.  We're debating if we should call in the Oct/Nov newsletter.

Oh, by the way, I have a great example of "be careful what you wish for."  In other words, when praying, sometimes you should be specific--or else be grateful for what you get (which you should anyway).  I should have learned the lesson back in 1982 when I was praying for a date to the big college dance.  Yes, I got a date; the only man who asked was a year older than my mother.  But we went and had a good time.    But after that I prayed for a "young" date instead of just any date.

Anyway, I'd been wishing that Mark would take me out to eat.   I got my wish on Tuesday.  During our busy afternoon at the Helpline, Mark decided that I didn't have to cook dinner--it was time to check out the Springs Rescue Mission .  They host an evening service and meal.  We grabbed a couple of friends and went, walking in late.  Talk about making an entrance.  It was kind of embarrassing; several men on the far side of the room leaped to their feet to give us a seat.  The meal was quite good.  It was spaghetti night with mixed vegetables, salad, rolls, fruit cocktail and cake.  We talked to one man who told us a little about their program.  It was quite a testimony of how they'd helped him turn his life around and free him from addictions.

Friday, October 24, 2003, 4:00 pm

Mark has gone to Missouri to check out a van with a box on it.  We're wanting to get our belongings out of storage and have them here in Colorado Springs near us.  I plan to enjoy some quiet time while he is gone this weekend.  Although time seems to get away from a person.

I've been cleaning house this afternoon.  This evening I plan to watch a movie with friends.  I rented the remake of "That Darn Cat."

Tuesday's test was difficult.  I'm determined not to worry about it. Today's test wasn't too bad except I couldn't remember all the definitions of the Greek and Hebrew words for Salvation.    But he gave a couple of bonus questions to which I knew the answers.

Monday, October 20, 2003, 7:34 pm

We survived a test in Andrew's class today.  Have a quiz tomorrow in Counseling class; Friday is one in Bible Covenants.  We have a project due in Media tomorrow.  We're supposed to put together a film to be shown when Andrew speaks in New Braunfels in December.  Classes are really gearing up with more projects, papers and tests.  But it is "good stuff" as Andrew would say.

It's a shame to stay inside to study.   Colorado Springs has been having beautiful Indian Summer.  We shiver a little in the morning but in the afternoon are running around in our shorts as usual.

Actually, part of my time this afternoon was cleaning my stove.  We'd noticed a rotten smell and tried finally decided my crock pot must have overflowed although I didn't think it had much.  Yesterday I cleaned all the filters and the part that has the range part.  Today I took apart the Gen-Aire.  But it still smelled.  I finally questioned what the hole in the bottom was for.  Turns out to be a drain.  Mark unscrewed the jar and nearly "lost it" because of the stench.  He bolted outside with it to fresh air.  I think we attracted every fly in the neighborhood within three minutes.  Fortunately I had extra jars the correct size.   I had rescued my superfluous lids when my friend (helping me move) dumped them in the trash.  So I dug into my cabinet and got a couple of lids with which to seal the offensive jars.   I must say that it smells a lot better in here.

Saturday, October 18, 2003, 5:15 pm

Whew!  It's been a fast-paced day.  Mark and I hopped into the van this morning for a quick trip to Denver.  We needed to go to Costco and then we picked up my car at the storage unit.  Mark may need to take a trip next weekend (more later) and I can't be without wheels.

I had hoped to go visit my great uncle and aunt.  Unfortunately, timing got impossible.  The CBC Women's Ministry had a meeting this afternoon and I felt I should be there.   I was late enough that I would have arrived during lunch if I had tried going to the nursing home.  So I drove back using the 75 mph speed limit and slid into the "meeting" as the social hour was ending and the meeting was starting.

Tomorrow is a Soup Social at church.  I volunteered to take a multi-bean soup.  The beans are in the crock pot and I'll add tomato soup for the sauce part.  We invited the Dalton family to attend with us.  The children went with us last Sunday and seemed to have a good time with the pre-teen activities.  

Thursday, October 16, 2003  9:15 pm

Yesterday's Walkathon went swimmingly!!  We walked around the Garden of the Gods .  Everyone seemed to be uplifted by the activity.  One lady in Mark's group had said she couldn't walk because of pain in her leg; they prayed for her and she walked the entire mile plus without pain.  I had the shy people in my group.  I mean people that are like shadows in school.  The quietest boy agreed to lead us in a song and after that prayed every time the group stopped to pray.  I felt several made breakthroughs by actually praying loud enough for us to hear this time.  They all got talkative when I brought up praying for people with marriage problems.  And the big thing I thought was neat.  At the preliminary meeting last week, I'd suggested we hold hands...  At our first stop, I was shocked when everyone started grabbing for hands.  I was carrying my camera, prayer cards, purse, etc. so was the one not prepared to hold hands.  I felt it was a bonding experience.

Mark and I had another bonding experience this evening.   I don't think I've mentioned that we've met the Dalton family (Gary, Deby, Tiffany and Cody) in the RV park.  They've been having illness lately.  They expressed interest that we are going to school.  Mark mentioned that we have a Video Bible Study produced by the school  that we need to go through as part of our school work and would they like to watch it with us.  So we got together last Thursday to watch the first segment on Eternal Life.  The subjects are kind of basic foundational topics.  The idea is for people to watch simple teachings to confirm what they know and then by the end of the series, to be able to disciple others.  It was a lot more fun having someone else watch with us.  

Tuesday, October 14, 2003  8:55 pm

Mark is outside winterizing the water and sewer.  Winter has snuck up on us.  We had our first below freezing night.  It was approx 28 degrees this morning.  Since we don't have the propane hooked up for our heater right now (Mark's waiting for a part), it was kind of chilly this morning when we climbed out of bed.  I was grateful for all the covers Mark wants on the bed.  I used to be the cold one.  Since my hysterectomy, my body thermostat thinks I'm warmer.  I'm grateful that hot flashes aren't bad and  glad I no longer have to wear my sweater all the time.  Like right now, I'm sitting here writing this and I recognize that it is coolish in this room but I'm comfortable enough.

We had Helpline today.  After about an hour, the supervisor informed us that we were being promoted to praying for people.  Most of my callers were ordering product but I did pray for one lady.  I have to say that I felt inadequate but relied on the Holy Spirit for words.

And last but not least...my great uncle Max will be 103 in a couple of weeks.  The nursing home and the family decided to give him a birthday party and fulfill a wish.  I don't know how long the Denver Post keeps their webpages up.   I regret that we had a conflict and weren't able to attend the party--it sounds like quite a bash!!!  Max Kight Birthday Story  

Monday, October 13, 2003 3:45 pm

I've been reflecting over the past week.  It was quite interesting to attend the Pastors' Conference.  As I think I said before, the purpose of this particular conference is to give full-time ministers a chance to have a break and attend meetings that will be uplifting and rejeuvenating.  One of the neatest days we when we prayed over each other.  There had been various prayer opportunities during the week.  But then they told the students to line up and the various ministers could come pray with us.  We were blessed to have Andrew Wommack come pray for our future activities.  Plus several others who had kind words regarding our future.  In the evening, the students were asked to pray for people.  Mark, another student and I were standing there without anyone to pray for when a young woman approached.  We tried to encourage her.  The next day her husband told Mark that she seemed happier.  I trust God will continue working in her life.  

Today was our first day back at classes.  I enjoyed seeing everyone again.  We had a guest speaker today, LaVere Soper who has a ministry Mission of Compassion in Scotland.  Some of the student just came back from a mission trip to his home area.

Tomorrow is our day for elective classes.  I'm looking forward to that.  We have them all on the same day.  The Walkathon is on Wednesday.  Thanks for those of you who have supported our future mission trip through prayers or donations.

Friday, October 10,  2003 12:45 pm

Hi!  What a busy week!  Yesterday morning we were awakened at 4:51 am with the news that water was gushing out from under our bus.  Mark promptly turned off the water at the outside faucet.  We couldn't see much at that hour.  Even though the bottom of the bus (I believe Mark calls it a sub-floor) was flooded, it didn't seem to get into the bays and nothing inside.  We let things dry out while attending the morning session of the conference.  Mark spent the afternoon working on the problem which turned out to be a burst hose.  I'm so glad I have a "handy husband."  Normally they don't let people work on their vehicles; they graciously allowed Mark to investigate the problem and fix it since it was a small issue.  I felt that a major blessing that we didn't have to pack up and drive somewhere.

The conference ended up with a great session about listening to God and holding on to his calling for you.  That is, know your calling and be able to stand on that belief during both the tough and the good times.  We felt blessed that the CBC students were able to attend this year.

Well, folks.  I'm supposed to be washing bed linens this afternoon.  I'm trying to get into a routine of what to do when since it seems like my time is limited.  There's a school picnic tomorrow for which I need to plan.  So goodbye until next time!

Wednesday, October 8, 2003  4:57 pm

This has been a busy week.  Mark and I decided to move to a different RV park on Monday morning.  Other students live at Fountain Creek so we thought we'd try that for a while.  They matched the price we've been paying at the other park.  

Then Monday evening the Pastors' Conference sponsored by Andrew Wommack Ministries started.  We've been enjoying doing something a little different from regular classes.  This conference is designed to be uplifting to pastors; to give some recharge time.  Sessions are in the morning and evening.  This afternoon was a barbecue picnic and then a concert by Don and Wendy Francisco.  I really like their dog Arthur.  Anybody know if he's a regular part of their act?

Yesterday was a wonderful day.  We had the conference in the morning.  Then we spent the afternoon at the Helpline.   My Aunt Maxine and Cousin Nita had come to Colorado to see the leaves.  Plus to visit Uncle Max and Aunt Tee.  Tuesday is our busiest day; that's the day they could come.  So they met us at the Hungry Farmer at 4:45 pm.  We had a few minutes before they opened to take pictures.  We chose that restaurant since it's easy to find, just off I25 on Garden of the Gods Road and the Helpline is just a few blocks away.  It was great seeing Aunt Maxine and Nita.  The news was that the Nursing home is giving a party for Uncle Max this coming Saturday.  I don't know if we'll be able to get up there this weekend.   I would like to visit sometime this month if we don't get up to the party.

Sunday, October 5, 2003 8:15 pm

Had a fabulous weekend.  My cousin Maureen met me at the airport.  We had a lovely chat all the way to McKinney; then she and her daughter Jana took me out to eat at an Italian restaurant in downtown  McKinney.   I have to say that my entre was maybe the best steak I've ever eaten.  We talked until 11 pm and then I took a leisurely bath (we don't have a tub on our RV) and then read on a Clive Cussler book I hadn't seen before.  Maureen graciously let me bring the book home.

On Saturday noonish, we met Debbie and her daughter Angie at the Grapevine Mills Mall.  We couldn't find the restaurant.  We sure appreciated cell phone technology so we could locate each other.  So we met at Chick-Fil-A and then I opted for lunch at Steak and Shake.

I was able to take a nap before we were due at the class reunion.  I immediately ran into several people I knew which made me a happy camper.  The other classmate that I've seen over the years was there.   One former friend plans to be in Colorado in a few weeks; I hope she will stop to see us.

Debbie and I stayed up an extra hour talking after we finally got back to her parents' house.  So it was an extremely short night; her mother awoke us at 7 am so we could dress for early services at church.  They offered me the option of staying home; however, I was happy to be worshipping.

After lunch the Rogerses drove me to the airport via Hurst where we had lived during my high school years.  It has sure grown up.  The high school has some additions and closed doorways where they were open before.  I would have like to have gone inside for a visit.  However, not possible on a Sunday afternoon if at all.

I had a nice flight home.  Mark was waiting for me at the curb when I got outside the airport.  I was glad that I was able to fly in and out of Colorado Springs.  That was easier on Mark not to have to drive me to Denver.

Thursday, October 2, 2003, 6:13 pm

This week sure has flown.  It's been quite a good one.  Tuesday we went to the Helpline.  Instead of answering incoming calls, the newer volunteers were asked to make outbound calls to viewers in Denver (from the ministry mailing list) to let them know that Andrew Wommack was going to be on a special program on Daystar.  That was fun to make calls.  I didn't have to be nervous because we had a script and if they asked a question about something I didn't know, I could always say that they needed to call the Helpline with their question.

This morning at school we gathered into our Walkathon group.  On the 15th, the students will be going to Garden of the God's to walk and pray in groups.  Mark and I were each asked to head a group.  Today was kind of a trial run in that we got together to get acquainted and to pray for some of the responses already received.  My group was kind of quiet but I think we all enjoyed our time together.  I had the head of the Walkathon sit in on my group.  But I determined that I wasn't going to be inhibited  so I just pretended he wasn't there and said what I would have said anyway.

Today we have been running around doing errands.  Mark's phone rang while we were still on the northeast side of town.  Our friend Pat Brandt who used to work for us had come down from Denver for a women's conference.  Her hotel was only a few blocks south of where we were at so we met her and talked for an hour or so.  That was so neat to see someone from "home."

We also went to the airport to find out where it is.  Our school schedule changed so I have to be in CO Springs on Monday; so we're using frequent flyer miles we've been saving up to send me to my 30th high school reunion.  I am excited to get to go.  The best part is that I'll get to spend a night with my cousin Maureen in McKinney and then Saturday night my freind Debbie and I will go to the reunion and spend the night with her parents in Arlington.  I graduated from LD Bell High School in Hurst.

So that's all I have to say until next week.

Virginia's Journal 2003Q3