Hello friends and family!
     For those of you who don't know, I have been in New Orleans, La and have begun work on a Masters of Divinity in Church Music degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. I am feeling very at home here and really loving the rich culture, people, and the food. :) I am really missing family and friends and not being able to be around for everything. It is a 15-16 hr car ride and an expensive enough flight that on my SBUX salary, I can't fly at every opportunity. I won't be back in Topeka for the Thanksgiving holiday, but I will for Christmas! I am just realizing, however, that since I am far away and out of touch with many of you, I need to make use of Facebook and xanga to keep everyone updated at once. :) I just wanted to say that even though I am out of touch with many who my subscribe to this blog, I still love you all and would love to hear about what is going on in your life! Please let me know exciting news or if I can be praying for you about anything. That's all from me for now, but I will be keeping you all posted!

Oh, man. I just looked at my last post and remembered the mood I was in while writing it. A bit wack-o on the Christmas spirit-o. Strangely enough, the day after Christmas, all my Christmas spirit was absolutely gone. Vanished. It was as though I'd used it all up and had just enough left for Christmas day. I don't know. I realized how much I enjoy Christmastime and how deeply depressed I am when it is all over. Oh well. There are other holidays and seasons that are good, too.

You know how there are 24 or 48 hour stomach viruses? Or other so-called "bugs"? Well, can you have one for less than 24 hours? I think you must be able to because this has to be what happened to me yesterday. I was mostly fine when I got up, but by the time I went to work at 12:30, I felt like I couldn't even stand up without getting sick. They ended up sending me home by 3:00. Even though I feigned resistance, I was quite greatful. (grateful or greatful? I've never really been sure.) I think I am out of the woods, now. At least I hope so. All I was able to eat yesterday was apple sauce, saltines, and popsickles. Is it bad that I am hoping this will help me get a grip on my eating habits?

Well, I know Christmas is over and while I'd rather is wasn't in the teens, I sure hope it doesn't stay in the 50s and 60s. It's January for crying out loud!