Sculpting, creating....landscaping :)

Over the last two weeks, I was able to design and implement with the assistance of the Stoever kids - Lindsay, Zach, Jordan, and Tyler - the redesign and freshening up of Pastor Greg and his family's front yard. I appreciate their willingness to let me kind of run things while at the same time, create landscaping mini-me's of the Stoever mixed quartet.

Here are some pictures of the finished product:

Carrie slides home...

Tonight was our final night this season with the River City Rats church softball team. We ended our season with our record in tact...0 - 9...meaning, we were successful at losing every game with a terrific attitude. :)

Carrie scored her first run tonight by doing her version of sliding across home plate. You can ask Carrie later about it...:)

I am very proud of her getting out there every game and playing considering she had never played softball before. Her game really improved over the last couple of months and I'm looking forward to seeing her play next season.

BTW...East Coast buddies, Janice was also on our squad and made an AMAZING stop tonight at third base as well as catching a line drive over her head robbing the other team of at least a double. :)

New address...new home...

Carrie and I received the keys to our new home today. :) Let the mayhem begin! LOL In the next week, the house is being painted, hardwood floors installed, appliances delivered and installed, furniture delivered and we move out of the apartment and into the house. All while I am still taking home classes for my new job and Carrie is still working through her close week. Deep breath and hold it...for a very long time! LOL Oh, did I mention window coverings and backyard lanscaping as well? :)

Here are some of the before pictures:

Time flies quickly

It seems like time flies quicker when you need more time. We're signing papers for our house tomorrow and closing on the 24th. Then we move September 2nd, just 2 1/2 weeks from now. Joshua and I still need to organize everything in our storage unit so moving goes smoothly and make sure the apartment is ready to pack. So, if nothing gets posted between now and after we move, there's a reason! We're both very excited about our new home, and we're looking forward to having a home again!

New job...

I'm very excited in regards to my new job with Eli Lilly and Company which I began on August 18th. I've been doing some intensive home study before heading to Indianapolis for more intense training. I'm very excited about representing diabetes related products as well. These products are necessary to assist people in their daily lives and increase their overall quality of life.

Lilly is a company committed to creating first-in-class medicines that enable everyday people to have higher quality of life. I'm excited about working with a solid team of people who have made me feel right at home from the word go. For instance, I received a phone call from a team member in a different region just checking in on me seeing how everyone was going. Wow...I so appreciated that.

Today, I went on my first field ride with my territory partner and was able to connect and be introduced to physicians that I will be interacting with in the territory and introduce myself to them. :)

New house update...

Well, we will be, Lord willing, closing on the new house in Elk Grove on Thursday, August 24th then the mayhem...hopefully controlled :) begins. During the first week, the hardwood floors will be installed in the great room and all bedrooms, we will need to finish painting or have someone paint the house and move in during Labor Day weekend. This is rushed although we are excited about the opportunity of being back in a home and being able to really make this a home together. Carrie unfortunately had to move into a home that I had spent the previous 3 years making mine so now she will have the opportunity of placing her own unique stamp on the home. :)

Lipizzaner stallions...

Friday night, Carrie and I had the opportunity of seeing the Lipizzaner stallions performing at the Stockton Arena with my parents and Grandma. We had FANTASTIC seats!!! Wow, those stallions were amazing at the sheer size and physical strength as well as the gentleness.

Left to right: Mom, Carrie, Joshua, and Grandma

River Rats Softball...

Sounds strange...I know...blame it on the pastor's kid. :) The River City Grace Community Church intramural softball team got off to a glorious, abeit rocky, start on Thursday with a 15-3 loss against a Presbyterian church from Downtown Sac. That in turn spurned Carrie and I to practice this Saturday and I must say that Carrie is a quick study learning how to wack a softball and throw better. This Thursday should be a better showing for our team, Lord willing. Hopefully, I won't keeping hitting long fly balls to left field. :(

House hunt...

Well, the house hunt may finally be over. If all goes the way it has seemed to go with my employment search, Carrie and I will most likely be living in Elk Grove, CA which is located about 25 minutes south of Sacramento.

It has truly been an answer to much prayer and patience as we have watched the Lord open and close doors for Carrie and I in our house hunt as well as my employment search. In regards to the house hunt, we put three different contracts on three different homes, entering escrow on one which we were tied up in for nearly 3 months. The Lord miraculously allowed us to back out of that contract and now has opened the door for a home in Elk Grove. We will be centrally located for my job, Carrie's job, church and family.

The house will finish being built toward the end of August and is by the same builder that my parents purchased from nearly 2 years ago. http://www.woodside-homes.com/ssi/v2/8CommPageV2.asp?State=NCA&Community=Heritage%20at%20Bilby%20Ranch We will be purchasing the Heritage 4020 plan, elevation C.

Please be in prayer as many things need to happen between now and then. :)

One year!

One year ago, on June 29th, we arrived in California after driving five days across the country. It was definitely a relief to be done with our "road trip." I am very thankful that I grew up in Virginia and am now living in California. Parts of the country were wonderful to see, and other parts bored me after the first hour!

This was taken the night that we finished packing our townhouse.

My brother David helped us drive, and we're grateful he could share the trip with us. No, this is not our apartment! It is my in-laws home!

Actually, three years ago on June 29th, Joshua and I decided to go out for our first date! So, that date is special for other reasons!

Babies, babies, and more babies!

Well, if this is the year for babies, I think this past week was the week for babies. Joshua and I know of five couples who had babies in the past 10 days! Two of our couples from Bible studies in Virginia had little ones. Jonathan and Christine had Abigail Jo and Pat and Laura had Benjamin Robert. Then, at our church, Blair and Mandie had Graydon Stone, and Russell and Sharon had Ruth Grace. The last little one to arrive was our newest nephew Noah, who came on Thursday to Karsten and Kim! Congratulations everyone!

June 26

June 26 was our second anniversary. It's hard to believe it has only been two years since our wedding. So much has happened in those two years. Last year, at this time we were on the road to California, and our first anniversary was actually observed sometime between Ohio and Iowa. Needless to say, we didn't celebrate until we were settled in our apartment. Since we didn't take a trip (just for our anniversary), Joshua planned for us to spend the weekend up in South Lake Tahoe. He made a great choice!



We stayed at the Black Bear Inn Bed and Breakfast. Very cute!
We went hiking on Monday to see a waterfall that flows into this lake.

I'm standing in front of Emerald Bay - part of Lake Tahoe.

My handsome husband.

Lake Tahoe is beyond the strip of woods separating the two bodies of water. We actually drove between them, and it was awesome to be able to look over on either side of the narrow strip of land, which was also high above the water.

We had a wonderful time, and we hope to be able to go back in the near future! I love you Joshua with all of my heart!

Promises

Romans 8:28-30 "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified."

Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope."

Job 42:1 - 6 "Then Job answered the Lord and said, 'I know that You can do all things, and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted. Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge? Therefore I have declared that which I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know. Hear, now, and I will speak; I will ask You, and You instruct me. I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear; but now my eye sees You; therefore I retract, and I repent in dust and ashes."

Habakkuk 3:17 - 19 "Though the fig tree should not blossom and there be no fruit on the vines, though the yield of the olive should fail and the fields produce no food, though the flock should be cut off from the fold and there be no cattle in the stalls, yet I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength, and He has made my feet like hinds' feet, and makes me walk on my high places."

Cars!

Joshua, Janice, and I saw Cars on Saturday night, and I highly recommend it! It is extremely funny, and it has a great message. I didn't think I would like it, but I'm glad I saw it. I would definitely see it again.

Back on the house hunt...

Joshua and I are back on the house hunt. We finally decided that the house we found wasn't worth the struggle. When we found out at the beginning of May about the title issue and potential probate proceedings, we wondered whether we would even get the house in the end. Since it appeared that we would, Joshua and I decided to wait. However, in the past couple of weeks, we haven't been able to agree with the sellers over repairs and such, and after we decided to extend the escrow period because of the issue with the title (the sellers' issue), they decided to get pushy. So, after trying everything to resolve the disagreement without success, we withdrew from the contract. Now, the only issue remaining is to convince the sellers to instruct the title company to release our deposit, which is rightfully ours. We thought we found the house, and instead it became a headache. However, the one thing I know for certain is the Lord is still in control, and His plan will be carried out.

It has been a hard three months. We have had several struggles with Joshua's middle school, he has been looking for a job, and we've been searching for a home. Now, in the last two weeks, we've had a huge issue with his school, we're trying to get our deposit back, and we're back on the house search. Through it all, the Lord has been faithful to remind us of His promises, and we are so thankful for our church family. It would be easy for us to wonder if we made the right decision moving to California. We both had fine jobs, a home, a church family, and friends. However, we firmly believe the Lord brought us to this area, even with all of the difficulties, because He wanted us to be at River City Grace Community Church. We have been blessed with the messages, and recently, they have been dealing even more with the sovereignty of God and His timing and purposes. I know the Lord has a reason for what we are going through, and hopefully in the end, we will be able to look back and see how He refined us and deepened our walk with Him. By the way, Janice, you should get the sermon tapes from May 7 and May 28.

Job search update...

Joshua's job search continues although positive progress has been made with second interviews happening in the next couple of weeks. The Lord moves in mysterious ways guiding our paths and leading us toward different careers. He has been interviewing with several large pharmaceutical companies for sales positions. He still interviewed with a large school district in our area for a High School Biology teaching position and is waiting to hear back from them.

We are excited to see how the Lord moves, opening and closing doors.

On another note, Tuesday night was Open House at his school...a time for teachers to "show off" their classrooms and student work. He demonstrated the Sound Wave Machine for parents and staff as well as some his students' most recent work.




Interestingly enough, he had a unique visitor to his classroom, the Superintendent, Dr. Kelvin Lee. Dr. Lee was highly impressed with Joshua's classroom, the student work and especially his application of science to the Music Appreciation Exploratory class. He told Joshua that the school and the district were lucky to have him teaching for them. Joshua then told him that he would not be teaching next year and Dr. Lee was shocked and asked why. He could not believe what Joshua told him as he looked around the classroom.

Joshua and I both know that the Lord is ultimately in control though it make cause Dr. Lee to question what exactly IS going on at this school if they are not renewing a teacher's contract of this high caliber.

Friday night adventure

There is a drive in movie theatre in Sacramento that we pass everytime we drive to Sacramento. It has six large screens, and at night, you can see different movies being shown. Joshua and I have never been to one, so we figured we should check it out. Last Friday, we checked out the information about the showings, and we planned on seeing Ice Age 2. As the start time coincides with the setting of the sun, we knew we could pick up burgers from In-N-Out and get there before 9:00.

We got there in plenty of time, and the grounds for the theatre are not much to look at. It's obvious that it is a low budget place, but as you are there to watch a show from your car, it really didn't matter to either one of us. We found out that we would be seeing two shows; Over the Hedge would be first.

So, we saw Over the Hedge. The lighting wasn't the best in dark scenes, but since you are outside, that's part of the experience. It was a cute show, but all the time, I was wondering when it would get done so we could see what we really came for. By the time it was over, it was 10:30, and we waited until 11:00 for Ice Age 2. Now, Joshua is not a night owl, and even though I like to stay up later than he does, getting home around 1:30 or 2:00 in the morning doesn't appeal to me. We were both getting sleepy, but we decided to stay. In the end, we were forced to leave, not because of tiredness, but because of technical difficulties. The screen went blank and the sound stopped, and even as we were driving away, we could tell the movie still was not running. At least we saw one of the films. I don't think we'll go back to see more films at the drive in movie theatre, but I am glad for the experience.

Pictures of house...

Here are some pictures of the outside of our home. We do think we will be getting it, but we don't know when. As you can see, the outside is not that attractive.


This is the outside of the master bedroom. We will make sure the windows both have shutters!

This picture shows the sidewalk leading to the front door. We will be taking out most of the bushes and trees.

This is the corner of the lot. Again, trees and bushes will be removed. I do like the corner windows.

4 years ago...

I remembered today that I graduated from Shenandoah University exactly four years ago. In a way it seems like more time has passed than four years, but then so much has happened in that time. My graduation was a huge deal to me because it closed a chapter in my life (that was probably filled with too much studying) and allowed me to enter full time into the workforce. Graduation also meant that I would have different duties, and as I majored in accounting, I would be starting to study for the CPA exam. Looking back, I'm not sure if I should have made such a big deal about graduation. Yes, it is a recognition of accomplishment, but that day is done and over with, and the knowledge you acquired is more important than the day.

I have a friend from church who is graduating this May, and to her graduation is more signaling the ending of studying versus a great accomplishment. She and her husband are also expecting their first child this August, so they do have more to focus on, but her perspective on graduation started me thinking. If I could turn back time and redo my graduation, I think I would approach graduation with a perspective somewhere in the middle.

It's a small world after all....

Believe it or not, some friends from our church here in Sacramento were out at the Together for the Gospel (http://blog.togetherforthegospel.org/) in Louisville, KY, and they literally ran into Mike, Pat and others from our church family in Northern VA. They started talking and low and behold, they both knew Joshua and Carrie Briggs. It is wonderful being part of the same body of believers!

Update on probate...

I just spoke with Barry, our realtor, and the escrow officer, title officer, "current" owners with their lawyer are working toward resolving this technicality within the time that we are scheduled to close. :) They aren't promising anything although they are purposefully working toward the close date staying the same. Please keep praying!

Complications with the move...

Last night Carrie and I found out that there might be a snag in the purchase of the house on Tamalpais Way. It seems that the deed was not recorded until the day AFTER his death, hence the need for the wonderful institution called the Probate Court. It looks like we could be potentially delayed 60+ days before being able to close.

Please pray for Carrie and I as we decide how to proceed.

We will be moving!

Last weekend, Joshua and I learned that our house hunting is over - we finally got a house! The house is located in Sacramento, about a mile from our church, and on the same street as one of our friends. Joshua looked at the home on Tuesday afternoon, and he called me right away to ask me to meet him to see it. From the outside, it doesn't look that great. However, the inside is being completely remodeled, and it has great potential for raising a family and entertaining. So, that night, we made an offer, and between Wednesday and Friday, the details of the contract got ironed out. Both of us are excited about our new home! We should be closing the middle of May and moving shortly thereafter.

The ironic thing about the house is that it has been on the market since January, when we started looking. However, the only picture available on MLS was a very truthful picture of the front, and as the bushes and shrubs are overgrown, there is not much to see. I am thankful that Joshua decided to look at the house, and we are both grateful that the Lord answered our prayers!

Cats are funny too...

We have a black and white, playful, cat named Mozart. He loves Harrison, and he loves attention. Mozart is not a huge cat, but sometimes I wonder if he thinks he can beat up Harrison. Just now I observed him crouch down on our bed as Harrison came up to me, and for a moment, it looked like he would pounce on Harrison! There's a big difference in size. Mozart must have realized that as well for he didn't go through with the pounce.

Dogs are so funny...

Joshua is currently down in Anaheim for a science teachers conference that he is attending because his school asked that the teachers for 7th grade science attend. He has been gone since Wednesday, and Joshua will come back tomorrow night. Anyway, it is very evident that our dog Harrison misses Joshua greatly. On Wednesday when I got home, Harrison was glad to see me (so he could go outside and eat his dinner), but once that was done, he moped the rest of the night and wasn't interested in playing. Thursday and today, he is better, but Harrison made me think of the one of the "Anne of Green Gables" books. The book is about her children when World War I occurred. One the boys went off to war, and his dog faithfully stayed at the railway station until his arrival. Sadly, for the dog, the boy never came back as he was killed in action. Harrison is definitely not that attached, but he still shows devotion to Joshua. He will be very glad when Joshua is home. I will be very glad as well!

Oops!

Saturday night, Joshua and I had dinner with friends from church, and we got home around 11:30. Our church's Sunday school starts at 9:00, and since we live about a half hour away, we usually leave home around 8:15 or so. This past Sunday, we were the teachers for the preschoolers, and that means being with 3 and 4 year olds for about 3 hours straight. Reminds me of Awanas. Anyway, as it was our first time teaching, Joshua and I planned to leave at 8:00. So, we both got up earlier on Sunday, and everything was going well to leave at 8:00, when I decided to flip the calendar. Yes, we forgot about daylight savings!! So, instead of it being 7:30, it was 8:30! Needless to say, we left as quickly as we could, and we did make it to church relatively on time. Joshua's mom even called that morning to remind us of the time change, but she ended up just inquiring if we were up and never mentioned the time change. Anyway, I can now say I forgot about the time, and in the future, we will be careful to remember!

House hunting update...

Well, we have been looking for homes now for two months, and in those two months we have changed our criteria somewhat. We still would like to buy close to church, and preferably, we would like to get a home that is all remodeled (homes near church were built in the 60's and 70's), or one that we would be able to afford to remodel. However, we are looking at smaller homes because the prices are more affordable. As our realtor said in February, more homes are on the market now, and Joshua and I have actually seen two homes in the last 1 1/2 weeks that we really like. Unfortunately, in both cases, we were too slow. We should have jumped on the one last Saturday, and we have made a backup offer on it in case it falls out of escrow. The other one, that I really like, went on the market on Wedesday, and it sold yesterday. So, we will make another backup offer. The first one was a really good price in a very desirable neighborhood, and even in a slow market, location is everything. The second one did sell very fast for a slow market, and my guess is the owners are desperate to move because they even knew we were planning on looking at the house yesterday. One thing that I know for sure is that God is in control, and He has the right house for us. So, the house hunting continues.

Injustice

Joshua experienced injustice today at his school. We both knew that it was coming, so he was prepared to expect the worse, and the worse happened. Romans 8:28 is an amazing promise, but it is so easy to not trust the Lord completely. It is also so easy to want justice done, and I know that justice will be done, but maybe not until Heaven. Anyway, my fleshly reaction is give the offending individual a piece of my mind if I ever come in contact with that individual, especially since the individual claims to be a Christian and should know better. I want that individual to know that the actions were wrong, and that Christians do not act in that manner. However, I know I won't have the chance, and I shouldn't be vengeful, even if just in words.

As I was thinking about the situation, I was reminded about Joseph. He was sold as slave by his family and put in prison unjustly! God had a reason for all of it, and it wasn't until years later that Joseph understood the purpose. We know God has a reason for everything, and it may be that we will see that reason soon or years from now. The Lord works in our lives to grow us as Christians, and He is completely in control. So, Joshua and I are trusting the Lord.

SNOW!!! White stuff falling from the SKY!!!

Well, we have a dusting of snow here in Folsom, CA. Carrie is SO excited about seeing her snow as we drove into Folsom that she had to call just about everyone ( her mom and Janice ... everyone else, sorry you're not lumped into the "everyone" category). When I called my parents, they said that there was a funnel cloud over Folsom Lake as well as some hail and snow continuing to move through the area.

Clarification about Andy and Kate...

It appears now that Kate's biological dad was killed in the plane crash. She called both men Dad, so we didn't know who died. So, her stepfather is still with her family.

Andy and Kate Anderson...prayer request...

Carrie and I were so blessed to be apart of a couple's small group Bible study that met in Andy and Kate's home in Falls Church. Both Carrie and I regretted leaving VA because we were leaving our "family".

I just found out that late last night Kate's dad was killed in a private plane crash near Stafford Airport. Kate's mom is battling cancer right now and has Hope, a 7 year old daughter, at home. Please be in prayer for Kate's family and for Kate as she is not only struggling with the grief of losing her dad but she is also comforting her mom and sister. Also, Kate and Andy are new parents with their firstborn son arriving a little over a month ago.

I'm sure they will appreciate any prayer and words of encouragement!

Seeing is believing....Janice

Today, I went to get my normal haircut from the stylist that both Carrie and I both go to here in Folsom. An inexpensive haircut from someone who actually listens to what you like and dislike and does what you ask.

Well, she is slightly eccentric... So, today when I went in, she asked if I was ready to try something new and different. I said sure, why not...it's just hair and at the rate mine grows out, I'll be getting another haircut in a matter of weeks anyway.

So, I got blond highlights...

So thankful...

I was meaning to post this on Valentine's Day, but I didn't get around to it. I am so thankful for Joshua. He is truly a blessing, and each day I am reminded how much I love him. Joshua has led me in so many ways, and even though the changes I have had to go through have been rough, they have always been for the best. He helped me through the process of relying solely on Scripture for my doctrinal beliefs, and I know my walk with the Lord is stronger because of it. He encouraged my to take a different job in Virginia even though I went kicking and screaming (not literally, but close!), and I have the job at Morrison Homes, www.morrisonhomes.com, as a result of that encouragement. Although I miss Virginia and our friends and family, I am thankful we are out in California. Those are just a few examples. It is amazing how one person can impact your life so completely. Four years ago, I would never have imagined that I would be where I am now. God knew that I needed Joshua as my husband. Joshua is a great husband, and I love him dearly!

Hannah Elizabeth Holtom has arrived!

Praise the Lord, Matt and Elizabeth Holtom delivered a healthy baby around 11:15 AM today at Fairfax Hospital!

Elizabeth pushed for 2 hours but the baby was coming out sideways so they had to do a C-section. Both mother and baby are doing well.

Introducing the Holtom family's newest addition:

Hannah Elizabeth Holtom (they had a girl! the suspense is over!)
February 13, 2006
6 lbs. 6 oz.20 inches long

Congratulations Matt and Elizabeth and welcome to the world Hannah!

May God bless Matt and Elizabeth as they raise Hannah to have her gaze directed heavenward!

Volleyball time again!!!

My back is finally healing and I am ready to hit the courts. Matt Wolfe from church and his wife Michelle are both really big volleyball players. Yesterday afternoon, Carrie and I went to McKinley Park in downtown Sacramento, set up a court and hit around with Matt and Michelle. I am VERY rusty playing since it has been seriously 5-6 years since I've played doubles last.

I did get a couple of good hits in though and they felt good. I'm excited about possibly playing some more with Matt and Michelle, especially if the Lord blesses us with a home closer to church.

Ah! I am really excited about possibly entering into a couple of grass doubles tournaments this year with Matt potentially. That is if he can stand playing with me! He has been playing consistently for a number of years whereas, I really need to work all of the kinks out of my play.

More later on volleyball!

Friday night with Janice...

Our friend Janice Phillips came over tonight to have dinner and hang out with us. It was so good seeing her and hanging out with her. It has been too long. We enjoyed watching the opening ceremonies of the XX Winter Olympics in Torino, Italy. WOW...what an impressive opening! We were all amazed at the finale!

www.nbcolympics.com

Go USA!!!

Movie renting at it's BEST...

Carrie and I signed up for Netflix recently and have been extremely pleased with the service. We can rent as many DVD's as we want per month, watch them as long as we want...all this for only $9.99 per month.

I have found the selection of titles to be worth viewing and although Carrie and I never really watched that many movies, it is certainly cheaper than renting DVD's from Blockbuster.

I highly recommend Netflix.

The Lind's have landed...

Jeremy and Leslie Lind arrived safely in Portland, OR over the weekend. We are very excited about having them join us on the West Coast. Carrie and I have already checked...Southwest Airlines...1 hour 20 min flight...$39 each for a one way ticket. Carrie and I can't wait to visit Jeremy and Leslie, once they settle in, and for them to visit us down here...once we have a place to shelter them. :)

It has been amazing to see the Lord work and provide for their move out to Portland and to really see the Lord's handiwork.

Pet pics...

Just some favorite pics of Harrison and Mozart...

Visit with Daniel and Anu...

Daniel and Anu came back to California for a brief visit and a wedding that they were in today. Carrie and I drove down to my parent's house in Stockton to see Daniel and Anu (back from Syracuse, NY). We had a wonderful time fellowshipping with the newest newlyweds in the Briggs family. Heard excellent reports from Daniel about the progress he is making at Syracuse Law School as well as the fact that he recently applied to the Marshall School of Public Administration. He should heard back from them in the next couple of weeks. If he gains acceptance, he would concurrently receive both his law degree (J.D.) as well as his Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree.

Anu is loving her job and they are loving having her as well. Her boss recently praised her in an company wide e-mail stating that they need to hire two more customer service representatives "just like Anu". The Lord is continuing to bless Daniel and Anu in Syracuse although we miss them greatly here in Cali.

Carrie and I got to see my Dad's new school, McNair High School, and the science labs...WOW, Wow, wow!!! Each classroom has their own Spectrophotometer, Gas chromatographs, $$$$ salt water aquariums, gel electrophoresis equipment, etc. I was so envious! :) Plus, Ward's scientific supply company has now packaged labs for each of the different areas. So, my Dad now is able to do mock paternity tests, blood typing, gas chromatographs, etc. with EACH of his classes AND the students are able to perform these labs in groups while in class. I can't even scrounge up enough materials to do one labs in front of my students.

Anyway, it was a great couple of hours spent with my family, laughing and discussing weightier matters. We had some very insightful conversations around China, world economics, and the recent appointment of Justice Alito and Chief Justice Roberts.

Additionally, my Dad and brother learned that SOL meant something other than "S**t Out of Luck". LOL

Carrie wants everyone to know that she does not approve of the last statement.

Surgery update...

Well, Joshua had surgery on Monday to remove a lump from the lower part of his back. He decided to go back to school afterwards and then teach both yesterday and today...in pain. After calling the doctor's office, they told him, belatedly, that he should have taken a day off of work. So, he is taking tomorrow off to rest and hopefully, recuperate. The teachers on his team at school told him to take Friday off as well if he wasn't back to himself at the end of the day on Thursday.

We will know more about the lump in a couple more days when the biopsy results come back.

Friends...

Here are some pictures that we took in Virginia at Christmas. Kate (in the middle) and her husband had their little boy on New Year's Day, and Leslie and her husband Jeremy are on their way out to Portland. We are so glad they will be near us on the West Coast.
Our good friend Juliet from Wednesday Night Bible study.
Three of the five couples from our Tuesday Night Bible study.
Andy and Kate, Jeremy and Leslie, and Joshua and me

Jonathan, Christine, and Timothy. They are expecting baby number 2 in June. Jonathan was in our wedding, and he and Christine hosted the Tuesday Night Group until little Timothy arrived.

If only Virginia and California were next door... We miss everyone in Virginia!

Links...

For whatever reason, the Folsom Zoo link isn't working exactly as planned. This is a really cool zoo that takes in abused and neglected animals. If you want to see the animals, you will need to look under Activities (left hand side) and look at the link for the City Zoo Sanctuary. If any of our friends come out to visit, we will definitely have to take you there.

Additionally, I've added a link to my website that I've created for my students and parents at the middle school where I teach. In order to view it (if you so desire), you will need to scroll down the page, look on the right hand side for the Class Homepage Login link. Once there, for the Classroom User Name type in lifescience and the Classroom password is sciencerules.

Prayer...

Pray for the Lord's leading as to the direction of my job here at the middle school. After speaking with my parents last night, I realized that with my credential I'll be able to teach anywhere. With that said, I still would like to stay here at this school, Lord willing, and make an impact on the lives of the students in my care. It is tempting to teach a higher level where parental involvement is less and grades matter when it comes to further education.

The administration will be making their decision on March 15th as to my tenure here at the middle school. Pray for the Lord's Will!

Prayer requested...

As most know, I am a 7th grade Life Science teacher at a middle school in the greater Sacramento area. The scope of this prayer request is somewhat wide. First of all, next month, I begin teaching through the Family Life unit. Pray for guidance on what to say, how to say it, and carefulness as I teach through it. With that being said, please pray for my affect and testimony with the students. Carrie and I really feel like I have been under spiritual attack this year from parents, students, etc. My heart is for reaching the students, affecting their lives, getting them to think through their life perspective....oh, and learn to love science like I do. :)

Lastly, please pray for the Lord's leading concerning my job. I really don't get a strong reading one way or another from my principal. Pray for guidance! I am very strong in my subject field although I have very high standards which I expect my students to adhere to or rise to.

HOUSE HUNTING...

Today, I went with our realtor again to look at a variety of homes. Four were definite NO's while one is a slight maybe (leaning in the direction of no). The house that we put the first offer on is looking really good right now. LOL We are waiting on the Lord for the perfect home for us (not a perfect home rather the perfect home for us). The Lord continues to lead us withersoever He desires...He has given us our new church, River City Grace and a new body of believers to fellowship with which we are eternally grateful. We are excited about moving closer to church in order to fellowship and assist in any way possible.

Family Fellowship Dessert...

Tonight, Carrie and I had the privilege of attending another Family Fellowship Dessert hosted by Matt and Rebecca Tennis. The fellowship was great and the message/challenge given by Sean Wallentine from I Peter 2 was equally poignant. It was a great time to just gather and reflect on the Lord, eat great desserts and play some games.

P.S. On the food note, Carrie and I brought homemade blueberry chessecake and a cinnamon-apple-cranberry-blueberry-crunch dessert. Anyone still hungry 'cause we still have plenty back here at the apartment?

House update...

Well, the house that we submitted an offer on has not panned out as yet. Their realtor is also their mother and so wants the most for her daughter's family. We submitted a offer on Monday which they "countered", really a slap in the face because they only came down $2K, with a sentimental letter about how "no other home compared to this home" etc.

We have decided to continue looking around the area surrounding our church. If there has been no further action on this home or we have not found anything better in the next two weeks, then we will resubmit another offer on this particular home.

Why the area surrounding our church? Carrie has felt for a while now that she would rather live closer to our growing church community and fostering the developing relationships within the church body. Honestly, it has taken me a longer time giving up the dream of providing Carrie with the perfect house which we could make a home with Carrie staying at home when we start a family. The idea of being closer to church, participating more in church ministry and developing relationships/opening our home up to others has definitely been growing on me.

Please continue to pray for wisdom for both of us as we continue to strive for Godly wisdom in our home search! We think of our friends and family spread across the nation and the world and pray for you all continually!

New Year's Eve...

Carrie and I had the privilege of attending a New Year's Eve bash at the Elkhorn Country Club...
Doesn't Carrie look great!

Even Harrison got into the spirit of things...

House search...

As many of you already know, Carrie and I have been waiting for a new home builder to release prices for a new home community located in Rancho Cordova, CA (Southeast of Sacramento). They have delayed releasing prices several times for "various reasons" which we know is the Lord ordained.

Additionally, we have become more involved and are in the process of becoming members of River City Grace Community Church in north Sacramento. With that being said, we have, in recent weeks, begun to have a change of thought about where we will settled down. Since Carrie is playing the harp more at church and we are getting involved in different ministries, we are thinking about finding a home in the area around the church.

I've been online looking at homes and then this last Thursday, with a realtor, I saw several homes. One in particular stood out. So today, Carrie and I saw the home again. Carrie and I both really like it although it is slightly out of our price range. It is a home that we both could easily live in and raise a family in.

We are hoping the trend downward continues for a little bit or the owners accept a lowe offer. Please pray for guidance in this matter.

Update...

Hello Friends,

As Carrie pointed out, we have not been keeping up our blog as we should have and we will endeavor to faithfully update the blog. I did want to include some pictures from our recent (1-2 months) events while here in CA. Pictured above is Carrie on the shore of Lake Tahoe...we definitely need to go back now that there is snow everywhere. :)

Joshua and Harrison on the shore of Lake Tahoe

Uncle Joshua and Aunt Carrie with Isaac on his first birthday

Ok, I am a slacker...and house shopping

Yes, it has been a while since we posted, and even before the last post, we haven't been on top of things. I hope that I can be more timely with future postings, but I'm not promising anything!

Today, we started looking at homes. We are still waiting to hear prices for a new home development, but Joshua and I want to be proactive and start looking at resales since the odds are that we will be buying a resale. As we get more connected with our church, our desire to live close by to River City Grace increases, so that is where we started looking. Joshua has been watching resales online faithfully, and we had a handful to drive by today after church. Of that handful, a few were actually open for show today, so we took the opportunities to tour the homes. The result was we ruled all but one home out, and the one home we just drove by. Not a great start to house shopping, but God is in control.

Well, we are off to visit with friends from church. Hope you are all well!

Annual Christmas Party...

Well, that time of year has come again for the Annual Briggs Christmas Party although this year it has been altered somewhat due to our living in an apartment.

This year, Rosario Cortes, a member of our church, has graciously opened up her home for us to host the Christmas party there. Joshua is of course creating culinary concoctions for the event such as Hawaiian meatballs, a Salmon appetizer, homemade fudge, etc.

We really will miss hosting the Christmas party for our friends and family in Virginia. Hopefully, next year, we will be in a house where we can begin again hosting our Annual Christmas Party.

We hope everyone is doing well and we are looking forward to seeing friends and family in about 1.5 weeks.

May the Lord bless you and keep you wholly in Him!

Contradancing!

Last Friday, we went to a contradance outside of Lincoln (yes there is a Lincoln in California) with Janice. It was Joshua's first time, and I don't think he knew what to expect. I used to go contradancing in Bluemont, VA years ago, and although the caller wasn't the best, it was great hanging out with Janice. We spent about 10 minutes trying to get a decent picture of the three of us, and this was one of the best (primary because I blink when the the picture is snapped). Anyway, we had a good time, and it brought back memories of contradancing in a country town with friends. See, Janice, I posted first!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving! I know it is the day after, but thanksgiving should be a part of our life everyday. Joshua and I are at his parents, and yesterday his siblings, their spouses, and their children were all here for Thanksgiving, and we all had a good time.

I am so thankful for my husband and for the Lord bringing us together. God has provided so much for us, and I know He will continue to watch over us. I am thankful for both of our families and for the fellowship we have when we are together. I am thankful for our church family in California and our close friends in Virginia and California. I am thankful for how the Lord led us to this day, and looking back, it is amazing how He has worked. I am thankful for all of the blessings the Lord has given us, and as our pastor reminded us on Sunday, gratitude should be the attitude of Christians every day for everything, from our wonderful salvation to the spiritual blessings to the Word of God to the fellowship of believers to spiritual and physical provisions.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! We are thankful for you and remember you often!

Yeah!

Joshua is coming back tonight from Virginia! He's been gone for a week, and even though I have kept busy and he's been busy in Virginia, I am so ready to have him home. I'll pick him up in about three hours.

Considering the past week, it has been especially difficult, but I know that the Lord's timing was perfect with Joshua being out in Virginia. Nevertheless, I'm excited that he is almost home.

By the way, we will be out in Virginia for Christmas in 37 days!

Celebrating Tom Shumaker's life...

Since Joshua is already out in Virginia, he will be staying with Mike and Jen Nevarr until Sunday, November 13, so that he can attend the family funeral and the memorial service. Please pray that during the memorial service we can celebrate Tom's love for the Lord and his continual service to the Lord. Also, pray for the unsaved members of the extended family to hear the gospel and receive the Lord as their personal Lord and Savior.

Our friend Tom

When we found out that Tom wasn't doing well, Joshua booked tickets to fly back to Virginia to see him. Tom has been like a grandfather to Joshua, and he has been very special to us. Anyway, Joshua flew out last night, and he arrived in Virginia this morning. Tom knew that Joshua was coming, and he kept asking when he would be there. As it turned out, Tom was holding on to life for Joshua. Joshua got to the nursing home in the early afternoon, and Tom went to be with Jesus just a couple of minutes later. Joshua doesn't know if Tom recognized him, but Tom knew it was ok to go.

We have so many memories of Tom, and we are both blessed to have had him in our lives. He was such a godly man, and he leaves behind a family who loves him as well as everyone else whose life he touched.

I think it is so special that Joshua could be there when he died. I wish I could have been there as well, but I am so thankful that I could spend time with him in October. It will be strange being back in Virginia at Christmas and not seeing Tom, but Tom is completely healthy now and he is with the Lord.

Every day is a gift from God...God is sovereign!

Well, I had intended to put up some pictures of our life here in the wonderful state of California, but that can wait. We received news today that our dear friend Tom and his cancer. He was diagnosed with cancer last fall, and after treatments, he was doing much better this summer. The cancer came back this fall, and although the initial tests presented conflicting results and it appeared like the medicine was working, he is back in the hospital, and tests now show that he has lymphoma in his bone marrow.

Tom is a strong Christian, and he has a godly wife and daughter who take care of him. He is always so positive, and we know that he knows that the Lord is in control. There have been so many times that we've gotten bad news about Tom, and then something changes, and the Lord allows him to feel better and gain his strength. Now, with the news today, it could be hard to realize God's purpose.

I know that every day is a gift from God. I don't always live that way. I don't think about how we are here today and gone tomorrow. We don't know what the future holds. I think about my dear friend June who died in 2002. She was so special to me, and I'll always remember how I saw her that last time at her house. June was 79 or 80, and we worked together for several years at HSLDA. I loved to visit her and her husband Ott, and one day in February, I dropped by her house. She had a huge smile when she saw me. The next time I saw her, she was unconscious in the hospital, and June died the next day. Every day is a gift...

I know that the Lord is sovereign. We don't know why things happen the way they do. The Lord has known since before time what each day holds, and He is not surprised. His plan is always carried out. Things happen for a reason. Tom's cancer is not a mistake. June's death 3 years ago was not something that was out of the Lord's control. We may not know why we go through what we do, but we will know at some time, either later in life or when we get to Heaven. We should be able to look back at what we experience and see God's purposes. If we are bitter and mad at the Lord, then we are saying that the Almighty God doesn't know what He is doing. But if we change, become more Christlike, lead others to the Lord through our witness through hard times, influence other Christians for good, and rejoice in the faithfulness of the Lord, then perhaps that is the reason.

May you all grow in the grace of our Lord as we our on the journey to Heaven.

36 Hours!

Last weekend, I realized how much I could do in 36 hours - I flew to Virginia and back to California and was in Virginia for a grand total of 36 hours! Joshua and I were invited to three different weddings on three different weekends in October (all in Virginia), and I really wanted to be at a least one of them. Well, as it turned out, since I have no vacation time at work, and two of the weddings were held on Sunday evenings, I ended up flying back for Joanna and Chad's wedding, which was beautiful!

I left Sacramento at 11:00 pm Friday night and I arrived at Dulles International Airport at 7:00 am Saturday morning. I picked up my rental car, and drove to my parents' house where I hung out for a couple of hours. Then I drove to the wedding in Maryland and had a great time since I hadn't seen anyone from Virginia since June when we drove to the other side of the continent! It was hard to believe that I was actually back on the East Coast. Anyway, after the wedding, I headed back to my parents and had a relaxing time with them and my sister Louisa, who in the time I have been gone has grown about 3 - 4 inches! She's catching up to me! Since I knew I would be having a packed day on Sunday, I stayed up as late as I could, which considering the red eye flight the night before meant I was functioning on little sleep. But it was worth it.

On Sunday, we went to church, and I saw most everyone from our Wednesday night shepherd group. I was able to see our friends Courtney and Eric who got married at one of the Sunday night weddings in October, and see how pregnant Elizabeth is. (She and Matt are having their first in February!) After church, my family and I had a quick lunch, and I drove to see our friends Tom, Mary and Carol Shumaker. I almost didn't go over to their house due to time, but I am so thankful I did. Tom is struggling with cancer, and as of Sunday he looked ok, but he is now back in the hospital, and everyone is waiting to hear the results from the latest tests. All of the Shumakers are dear friends, and Tom has been a special part of our life. The Lord's will will be done.

After visiting with the Shumakers, I drove to our friends' Jonathan and Christine's house to get together with our Tuesday night Bible study. It was great to fellowship with everyone. Jonathan and Christine's little Timothy is crawling and has changed so much since June. Kate is very pregnant now, and it was fun to see all of the couples. We miss both of our Bible studies so much!

I left that gathering and drove to the airport. My plane left Virginia around 7:30 pm, 36 hours after I arrived. It is good to be back home, especially since Joshua couldn't come with me.

I realized during my time in Virginia that I am feeling more like California is my home. I miss my family, and it was wonderful to see my mom face to face when we were talking. I miss friends from HSLDA and PHC, I miss our Bible studies and church, but life has changed. California is beautiful, we have jobs here that we like, we have a church, and God has been working on my heart to allow me to feel at home here. It was hard coming back to California, but my life is here now. Joshua and I are together, and I know that our home will be wherever both of us are.

I am so thankful for the opportunity to visit this last weekend. To all of you that I didn't see, maybe we'll see you in December at Christmas time, but remember that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Yes, we are coming back at Christmas!! We'll be back from December 21- 28!!!

Our Apartment

Here are pictures of our apartment.



Harrison in the living room. The cat also likes to sleep on the dog bed.

Another view of the living room, kitchen table that we never use, and

the hallway to the bedroom.

Our bedroom...

Our computer on our dresser.

As you can see, we are quite comfortable in our apartment!

Weekend Fun and Thoughts

Last weekend, we finally drove up to Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is only about 1 1/2 - 2 hours from us, and I had been wanting to see it since I've heard so much about Tahoe. The drive was beautiful, and the lake is awesome! We only went up for the afternoon, but we had a nice time walking around the town and on the beach. As Joshua always has grading or something related to teaching to do on the weekends, I enjoyed the trip even more because it meant that he was giving up time to take me to Tahoe. We will be going back, hopefully for a longer period of time, but now I can say I've been to Lake Tahoe.

Oh, Janice came over on Friday night, and we all had a good time, even with spending part of the evening looking for a missing wallet, which turned out to be in our car all the long!

If you ever get a chance to listen to sermons by Tommy Nelson (pastor at Denton Bible Church in Texas), take it. We had some series given to us in June, and I've been listening to them as I get a chance. He has a series on church history that is very in depth and thought provoking. Right now, I'm listening to his series on Ecclesiastes. The sermon today reminded me that God is sovereign in everything, and although His purpose may not be made known to you, there is a reason. That is always encouraging.