Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men

One of the things I loved most about Rexburg was the small town community where everyone knew each other and helped each other out. People were always extending a hand to their neighbor and lending them things. I knew I was going to miss that about Idaho but I didn't expect the Bay Area feel like a small town, and much to my surprise it has been that way.

Mark and I both grew up here in the East Bay Area, we knew what to expect when we were moving back but it has surpassed all our expectations. Through out this move we weren't sure if we were playing the right cards, for instance we didn't know if we should rent or buy but we decided to buy and it has been the best decision we have ever made. It has already led us to amazing friends and people surrounding us...and we've technically only been moved in for a couple weeks! So many people have contacted us and offered to help us paint, move in, give us picture frames, shelves and even their personal discount on appliances! All of these kind acts, big and small alike, have made me feel so loved and that we are where we are suppose to be. It's been a sense of validation for us.
Last night as I was driving home I was thinking about all these wonderful people in my life and couldn't help but let a few tears out as I realized that God really does care about me and knows what I need, and through all of these hands of wonderful family friends He has touched my life.

Thank you to each and every one of you. You have made this post-college transition so much easier for us.


I started this post last night and can't end it without taking a moment to reflect on the horrific tragedy that struck a Connecticut Elementary School this morning. A gunman went to the Elementary School where his mother worked and killed her along with 20 innocent children and 5 other adults. This senseless act broke my heart. Those poor children, teachers and families. I couldn't help but think about my mom today as she works at our Elementary School. No words can express the pain that these families are going through but my heart and prayers go out to them.

All I could think about was the lyrics to the Christmas song "I Heard the Bells On Christmas Day."
And in despair I bowed my head:
"There is no peace on earth," I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead, nor doth he sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men."

I know that those sweet children are in Christ's arms and were too good for this Earth. May we all hold our loved ones a little closer as we remember those families who lost their baby today.