Westy Masquerade

Last night was a major success in the lobby of Westminster dorm. Grace had its annual masquerade with fall themed games and activities as well as choreographed dancing! This year, SAB joined with Westminster in bringing a square dance to the outside terrace area of the dorm.
The Students came in an array of costumes such as the H1N1 virus, Yoda, the Sham-wow guy, Salt and Pepper, and two hillbillies who MC-ed the whole event. I was thoroughly impressed by the creativity of the costumes. Also, students participated in games by bowling with pumpkins, fishing for candy brains in jello, eating a doughnut from a string, and dropping chocolate covered marshmallows, which were very entertaining to watch. And while students were standing around socializing, they could grab a cup of hot cider and some cookies to satisfy their appetite.
My favorite part was the line-dancing that took place outside as well as inside. Students channeled their country roots as they listened to a square dance caller and gathered in circles to clap and do-si-do (I have no clue how to spell this). Such favorites as the "Cha-Cha Slide" and the "Cotton Eye Joe" made appearances in the lobby of Westminster too.
It truly was a night to remember as we celebrated the fall together!

Cambodia

During missions conference two weeks ago, the Grace student body was given a challange. Last year during missions conference, Grace College raised between six and seven thousand dollars to donate to Feed My Starving Children, an organization that packs and ships food all over the world. My mouth dropped to floor when I heard that this year's goal was ten thousand dollars; much more than last year. I had my doubts on whether the Grace student body could raise enough. My mouth dropped a second time and almost to the floor when I heard the ending total for the missions week. We gave over fourteen thousand dollars so that our brothers and sisters in Christ could be supported in Cambodia. The money will help start businesses, provide Bibles, and pay a years rent in a ministry facility in this country. All I can say is that I am thoroughly proud of Grace students and their willingness to give. We completed the seemingly impossible challenge with the goal of spreading God's kingdom!

Rainy Days And Silly String

The week has been fairly uneventful, save winning two free combos at Taco Bell and ambushing my suite mate with a can of silly string. Oh, the simple joys of college life. The weather is hideous today and the campus is spotted with various colors and patterns of umbrellas. Today will be a good day to nap or just stay in and study. Maybe I'll make a mug of tea and snuggle up in a blanket with some Hulu. I know this is where I should say that I'll use this time in the room to get ahead in my homework, but you fine readers don't deserve such lies. I'm probably just going to play on Facebook and eat random candy I find in my desk drawers. I'm sorry I don't have anything more interesting to report. If something terribly exciting happens, I'll be sure to let you know. Have a lovely (albeit rainy) day! Keep on truckin'!

Intramural Soccer

Unfortunately, the intramural soccer season came to a close for the Westminster 4th floor girls this past Thursday. I had never played soccer in my life until last year when I became involved in the intramural soccer program at Grace. I am thankful that my lack of experience does not matter in the Grace Intramural Program. Grace really emphasizes having fun and fellowship with other Grace students more than the competitive side of sports. Because intramural sports are played with fellow hall-mates, I have been able to learn more about the girls on my hall and to develop teamwork with them in order to be productive on the field.
In addition to soccer, Grace will have an intramural volleyball, basketball, and softball season yet this year. I am not extremely athletic, yet I feel very comfortable with joining in on these sporting events. Also, there are usually several people on each hall who have played the sport in previous years who can help lead the team to victory.
Although our season was shorter than we wanted, we enjoyed the many benefits of our involvement in soccer. I look forward to next soccer season in the Grace Intramural Program because it is an outlet for exercise, getting to know my hall-mates, and improving my few soccer skills.

Missions Week

This past week on campus our focus has been missions. It has been an amazing and encouraging past couple of days :) Anywhere from chapel, to growth groups, to lunch in Alpha there have been missionaries from all over the world flooding our school. We had the vice-president of World Vision come and speak to us during chapel and his message was revolutionary. Not only did he encourage us to get out of our comfort zones and spread the message, we had over 40 missionaries and mission groups that we could look into achieving this goal! It was so cool to hear their stories, two missionaries came to each individual growth groups and we got to know them and how they got to where they are today. Also our chaplain, Scott Feather, encouraged us as a family to help our Christian families around the world and raise 10,000 dollars for relief efforts in Cambodia. And do you know what? We raised over 11,000 dollars! How cool is that? We came together as a family and helped out our brothers and sisters in Christ who are hurting. That's just how awesome our campus is! :)

- J to the MO

Dressing Some Fools

So, the cabaret is over and life can get back to normal. It's back to homework, and meetings, and slaving away over a hot laptop. The show went fantastically though, and I couldn't be more proud of the result. We had great music, a great cast, great audiences; what more could a director ask for? Aside from fame, fortune, and her own personal pool boy.

My life will now be taken over by costuming the fall play, Neil Simon's Fools. The play is about a small Russian village that is cursed with stupidity. A teacher comes to the town, falls in love with a girl and discovers he must break the curse or become stupid himself. Publishing companies should definitely recruit me to write play summaries. I just made that show sound even more enticing, if that's even possible. I might just be a summary writing prodigy. Anyhow, the costuming is going to be a lot of fun and I can't wait to get started.

The other main project that should be consuming my life, when I am responsible enough to work on it, is writing the winter show. I will be student directing the winter play at Grace and I'm planning something a little different than years past. I am writing my own comedy sketch show, much like you would see at The Second City or Saturday Night Live. It's a tall order, but I think I can handle it. I have a handful of sketches already written that at least make my mother laugh. I suppose that's a start.

I have quite a bit of work to get done, so I will sign off for today, but not without leaving you with some grand nugget of wisdom. Maybe I'll make that my new thing. I have many of them. Here goes...

When your day is looking dismal and hopeless, remember, it's already tomorrow in Australia...and if that doesn't help than suck it up and eat some chocolate. You'll be fine.

Have a lovely day. Keep on truckin'!

You Can Lead A Reader To A Blog...

This week has been absolutely insane trying to prepare for opening night of the cabaret. Luckily, I have discovered that if you sleep less at night, it's like gaining hours in the day. Feel free to use that tidbit to enrich your life. If it ends up destroying it, don't blame me. I can lead a reader to my blog, but I can't make him copy my shennanigans.

The show is looking so amazing and I'm extremely proud to be able to call myself the director. I'm still nervous about everything coming together in such a short time, but I'm sure my gang of performers can pull it out. A gang of performers? Hmmmm...I like it. Instead of doing drive-bys and bustin' caps, we'll do dance-bys and sing for elderly people and orphans. Less tough, but more fun.

I best be off. I have a humor column to write, cabaret rehearsal to direct, and that pile of homework isn't going to do itself. If it did, my life would be a lot easier; but it would be really weird and I would have to assume there were demons or fairies in my room. Wow. Maybe this "not sleeping to gain hours" thing is starting to catch up with me. Have a lovely day! Keep on truckin'!

Camp-Out

Hey Guys!
So tonight, I am totally pumped because we are going to campout on Warsaw's courthouse yard. We are taking a stand for awareness about homelessness. Legislators are trying to pass an order for Warsaw to build homeless shelters and so we are camping out so that Warsaw sees that we as a school care about our community. We as Christians are called to love those that our less fortunate then us and so we are doing our part in taking part of this awareness stand!

What are you doing in your community for those who are less fortunate?

Take a stand. Make a difference. Be as Christ be.

- Jaimie

Life Is A Cabaret!

Ahhhhh...It's finally starting to feel like fall...and then winter...and then summer for about two hours...and then spring later in the evening. Oh, Indiana. I shall never understand your weather. Now, a few weeks into the year, it seems as if I'm finally finding my stride. I'm getting to class on time, paying attention, and sometimes I even do homework. The days are quickly getting busier though.

This year, I'm directing the second annual cabaret at Grace. It's a collection of show tunes from a variety of musicals to fit this year's theme, "From Shows You Will Never See At Grace." The shows were chosen for a variety of reasons, such as content, language, technical difficulty, and ethnicity. ("Ethnicity" referring to not having enough *ahem* "diversity" to pull off a show, like "Hairspray," "The Color Purple," or "West Side Story." ) The songs themselves, however, are pieces that should be well received by a Grace audience. I'm working with an amazing cast of Brice Williams, David Lepor, Elly Roseberry, Bekah Porterfield, QueenEtta (Peaches) Sharkey, and the beautiful and talented Marlene on piano. I'm so excited about the show, and I know it will all come together. Please come see the show in the Little Theatre September 25-26 at 7 and 11 p.m. both nights. Please pardon my absolutely shameless plug.

Well, I have much to do and much less time to do it in, so this will have to be a shorter update. I guess I really only had time to promote my show for my own selfish gain. I think it makes up for it if I take a moment to wish you a very lovely day. Enjoy the summery weather...for the moment. Keep on truckin'!

  I have to do a little bragging. This year, I have the opportunity to be the editor of the school newspaper, The Sounding Board. Going into this year, the newspaper staff had some big plans for how to improve the paper. It was exciting to see the enthusiasm of staff members while they were brainstorming. A lot of hard work has gone into changing the paper. This past Friday we launched a new design structure. I was so excited for the launch after I saw the proof. My excitement also contained hesitation. I really wanted the student body to like the new layout. If it wasn't well received, it would have felt like the work was done in vain. 

   So far the comments I have been hearing are really positive. The cleaner lines are appreciated and the whole style change seems to encourage readers. More students are now reading the paper and taking an interest in it. It's really exciting to be a part of this! I can't wait to see what other changes the staff can put into motion. 

September 11th

Today is a day to remember.

To remember those lives that have been lost in this war of terror. To remember their families who were delivered that folded up flag, never to see their loved ones again. To remember that the government did what they thought was best. To remember that our God is good, that we survived these horrendous attacks. To remember the bravery of the passengers that stopped the terriorists. To remember those lives that were lost who went to work that day because that's what you do everyday. To remember that no matter who you are, if you have Christ in your heart as your Savior you have nothing to fear, not even death. To remember that our God conquered the grave and He is victorious.

Today is a day to remember.

My Last First Day

I realized recently that this year I had my last first day of school. It was bittersweet in a way. This year I didn't have my mom take my picture in front of the car, backpack on my shoulder, pants hiked up to my armpits, braces shining in the sun, with my thick pink glasses firmly in place. This year the picture was braces-free. :)

I'm finally back at Grace after spending an AMAZING semester in Chicago studying comedy with the famous, Second City. The experience helped me grow in so many ways and I'm beyond grateful to have had the opportunity. I essentially went to "Joke School" for a semester, however, that puts much more pressure on me to be a laugh a minute. For that reason, I will no longer blog in a humorous manner, so has not to disappoint with jokes that don't work. It's serious and sentimental from here on out.

Now, in my senior year at Grace College, I'd like to take a moment to reflect on the memories made and lessons learned. The friends I've made here are so dear to me and I know that I will continue to foster these relationships for the rest of my life....ok...I can't do this. This serious thing isn't me. Let's try this paragraph again.

I'm a senior!!!! Woooohooooo!!!!!!!!! I love my friends all the crazy things we've done such as, mattress sliding, painting Alpha rock, late night Taco Bell and Steak-N-Shake runs (not usually on the same night), theatre cast parties, that one time at Winona Lake at two in the morning....ummm...ok that's enough of that for now.

I'm so excited about this year and can't wait to see what this semester has to offer! Luckily for you, this is why God made blogging...so you can experience it with me. Have a lovely day! Keep on truckin'!

One week down and, well, I don't know how many to go. It always seems the first few weeks of school are the hardest. A new schedule, new home, and the homework, all take getting used to but it is a welcome change of pace.
After a summer of long work hours, little vacation, and the abscence of school friends, I am really excited to be back here at Grace. It's great to be back with friends that are like family as well as profs who are willing to help me get the most out of my money.
The more time I spend down here, the more I like it. As a junior, I can't believe how fast the past couple of years have gone. I remember when I first arrived on campus as a clueless freshman. I've learned so much since then and I'm looking forward to learning more. The classes definitely get better once you get past the basics. Even though they also get harder, I can't wait!

Fall is here...and life has returned!

Wow! I just realized it has been awhile since I've blogged....it has been crazy busy here as a fresh wave of energy has come back to campus (hence the title: new life). We were super excited to welcome the students back to school this past weekend. It is so neat to see old faces and many new faces on campus and to feel the energy and life they bring back to Indiana. Today however, all the students are walking around in a bit of a fog....syllabus shock I think! It is a little humorous to see them realized that now is the time to start classes and work. I remember those feelings very clearly. You wonder why the prof.'s give so much work and how you will ever get everything finished. It is quite overwhelming but somehow everything gets done (and you still manage to spend time with friends making great memories!)
So while the air is getting cooler and the days shorter there is new life here in Winona Lake and we welcome it with open arms!

Interview with Bethany Michalski

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major?
Sophmore - Math Education
Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer?
Waitressing at Bob Evans and taking an online class. Also camp couseling for 2 weeks and going on a missions trip to the Dominican Republic with the Grace Volleyball Team.
Q. What do you do for leisure?
Hang out with people - family, friends, church friends. Sleep, reorganize/clean my room, listening to music, get a red box movie, have people over to my house, play the guitar and sing, play outside - throw the football, frisbee, baseball, shoot hoops, and of course play volleyball :)
Q. What sport are you involved in at Grace and how long have you been playing?
Volleyball - the best sport ever!! I didn't really start playing until my sophmore year in high school - kinda a "late bloomer"
Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what?
"Mind Gym" - An Athlete's Guide to Inner Excellence
"Completely His" - Loving Jesus WIthout Limits
"31 Days of Prayer" - Moving God's Mighty Hand
"My Utmost for His Highest" - devotion book
The Bible
Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life?
It's hard to write out only one thing, but here are some quotes that have made a significant difference in my life this past year:
"We are not our best when perched upon a summit. We are climbers at our best when the path is steepest." - William Wilberforce
"The worth and excellency of a soul is to be measured by the object of its love." - Henrey Scougal
"It is not what you are doing, but for whom you are doing it; that made the difference." - Oz Guiness
"No man makes a greater mistake than he who does nothing because he know it is not everything." - Edmund Burke

Interview with Stefanie Bolt

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major? This year at Grace I will be a freshmen. My major is currently undecided, but I'm leaning towards elementary education.

Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer? This summer I am spending my time babysitting, working out, playing volleyball, and hanging out with my family and friends.

Q. What do you do for leisure? For leisure I ride my bike, play volleyball, roller blade, scrapbook, and hang out with friends.

Q. What sport are you playing at Grace? At Grace I will play volleyball and this is my first year.

Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what? I am currently reading End of the Spear and Mind Gym.6.

Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life? My high school basketball coach helped me figure out where I wanted to attend college and where I saw myself in 4 years. She helped me realize that it was my future and I had to make all the decisions. I thank her so much for what she did and love where I ended up.

Interview with Andrea Knight

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major? I will be a sophomore, and I am a Bio Pre-Med major with a Chemistry minor.

Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer? Working, working out, and hanging with family and friends.
Q. What do you do for leisure? Hang out with friends
Q. What sport are you involved in at Grace and how long have you been playing? Volleyball and Track & Field, 2nd year for both sports.
Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what? Yes, Captivating and Mind Gym
Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life? The talks that I have had with my dad about school and life. Also the counsel I get from my coach while here at Grace. These talks have helped me transition from high school and living at home to living at Grace and being more independent.

Interview with John Franklin

Q. How long have you been working in admissions here at Grace?

I have been working for 4 ½ months in Admissions at Grace

Q. What is your favorite part about the job?

My favorite part is the personal interaction with the prospective students. I love having a positive impact on kids and I enjoyed my experience at Grace College, so this is a perfect combination of those two!

Q. What do you do for leisure?

Play-watch-discuss sports and spend time with family/friends

Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what?

I have to admit that the only thing I usually read is an ESPN or Sports Illustrated magazine J. But my favorite book is Mere Christianity by CS Lewis!

Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life?

Trying to live out my favorite passage of the Bible, which is Eccl 7:13-14a: “Consider what God has done: Who can straighten what he has made crooked? When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other…” We must understand that ultimately God is in control. No matter the fun or the tough times, He has a purpose for it all. Too many times in our finite minds we think we know what should be going on, and yet we don’t see the Big Picture. Nice to know we can rest-assured in His hands.

Interview with Kasey Woods

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major?
I will be a first semester senior (I think). I'm a Secondary Mathematics Education major. I also have added the middle school endorsement.
Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer?
I have spent a lot of time in the Office of Student Affairs this summer helping prepare for Welcome Weekend and Day of Caring. I also volunteer as an assistant cheerleading coach at Plymouth High School. The squad this summer been busy conditioning and practicing in prepartion for their first game that seems to be quickly approaching!
Q. What do you do for leisure?
In my free time, when I'm not here at Grace or coaching, I love recreational activities. (Sand volleyball, running, basketball, golf, and tennis). I have a close group of friends that I have known since elementary school. We spend a lot of time together during the summer since we are limited to spending time together on free weekends and vacations during the school year.
Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what?
I am in Literature of Mankind in the Fall. I have been trying to read the books that are requried for that class this summer. I just finished My Sister's Keeper and The Five People You will Meet in Heaven. However, I am currently reading, The Shack.
Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life?
Walk by faith....

Interview with Brett Hartsell

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major?
I will be a Senior this fall and I am Business Administration/Accounting

Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer?
I am working, working, sleeping and working. I did go on a missions trip to Tijuana, Mexico though. That was SWEET!

Q. What do you do for leisure?
I text...sometimes. I hang out at friends' houses when I am able, but mainly just work. It's kind of like being an ambassador :)

Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what?
One Minute Manager, The Art of Closing the Deal, and Eclipse (No judging)

Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life?
Put the seat down after you're done

Interview with Kim Kim

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major? I will be a Senior graduating in December. My majors are International Business, Marketing, and Business Admin.

Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer?
The most exciting thing will be going to a Congress meeting in August to raise awareness for human trafficking for the International Justice Missions! PLease pray that I and the few others attending will speak powerfully and move the people in authority to act on bringing justice. Other than that, I'm mostly spending summer how it should be spent: lazily enjoying the sunshine. Then, occasionally, I'll pick up the GRE study book, browse future career options, volunteer at various non-profits because I cant seem to find a job here in over-populated Los Angeles... I've been bonding with my little brother a lot, taking some summer classes, and getting back into dancing! I mean, interpretive movement. ;)

Q. What do you do for leisure?
I hike a lot, and love the thrill of exploring new trails. I love going to the beach and body surfing, aka wiping out. I've also been writing songs and poems and pretending I can play the guitar.

Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what?
Yes! I'm down to number 5 on my list! Woohoo! I'm reading Banker to the Poor by Mohammed Yunus, which is his first book, and I'll move onto his second one, Creating a World WIthout Poverty, hopefully, today. He is the Nobel Prize WInner who started micro-crediting, which is lending money to the poor so that they can oversee all aspects of their own business that they start without having to deal with corrupted money-lenders who hoard the profit. He invented it by going directly to the very poor, talking with them, studying how they lived, and what caused them to stay poor. I highly recommend reading it!

Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life?
I was talking to the Professor of the C.S. Lewis class, and I said something like, "I'm a business major. I don't know why I'm taking this class. I guess I like C.S. Lewis" He replied with something along the lines of, "I know why you're here. You're an explorer, and a pretty passionate one too." Later, a pastor talked about the difference between a traveller and an explorer. A traveller sees all the main attractions and gets on with the next big thing, but an explorer looks for the hidden treasures and wonders at the nooks and crannies that most people just pass by. I always thought I just lacked direction and focus, but God, through some great people, has taught me that there's treasure everywhere in life and in people, and it's really ok to take the time to explore, take risks, and experience everything fully.

Interview with Clint Johnson

Clint is one of the most well recognized people on campus and there is no one who knows more people than he does. Whenever you run into Clint, you get a cheery hello. Oh, and in case you didn't notice...he's a huge basketball fan!

Q. What year did you graduate from Grace and what was your major?
A. I graduated from Grace in 2005, and I majored in Criminal Justice

Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer?
A. I am working on a website for Grace's men's basketball team, which y'all can go surf at http://gracehoops.sports.officelive.com/. I also like to surf the Internet a ton! Being a big Duke fan, I love the relaunched http://www.goduke.com/, and also http://www.dukeblueplanet.com/, http://www.dukebasketballreport.com/, and http://www.blueplanetshots.com/. I also love Social Networking, and you can contact me at http://facebook.com/clinttjohnson, http://myspace.com/clinttjohnson, and I have joined the Tweeting revolution at Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/clinttjohnson and http://www.twitter.com/GraceBasketball. I have lost around 19 pounds by being a coffee fiend and walking miles and miles around Winona Lake. Besides that, I enjoyed getting to hang out with the Lancer Basketball Camp staff and bond with everyone that came to camp! Grace is going to be so blessed with all of the signings Coach Kessler has made... I'm super stoked for this coming season!

Q. What do you do for leisure or on campus here at Grace?
A. Like I said above, I surf the Internet a ton. I like hanging out in the various computer labs, and just meeting everyone that I can. I like to make random Wal-Mart runs with people, and it's always fun to go on Applebee's 50% off appetizer excursions after 9 on weeknights.

Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what?
A. Besides currently reading through the book of Judges, and seeing what an awesome dude Gideon was, I'm reading "The Gold Standard" by Coach Mike "Coach K" Krzyzewski of Duke and his daughter Jamie Spatola. The picture on this blog post shows me sitting in Coach K's chair following a Duke game last New Year's Eve. My buddies Mason Plumlee, Miles Plumlee, and Ryan Kelly (who by the way, is the cousin of Vic Casey, who plays women's soccer here at Grace) all play for Duke, and it has been great to read about Coach K [who I met last year on my visit] and how he got the National Team to play as one heartbeat, with one focus!

Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life?

I would say that it's always think before you speak, from my parents. I haven't always thought before I've spoken, but it's something everyone needs to do. It's so easy to just blurt things out, however we need to process things so we can speak them eloquently, passionately, courteously, and encouragingly!

Interview with Brice Williams

One quick note about Brice: He is often coming into our office to visit us and we LOVE to have him come by (usually with his friend David who we love too!). They are always so chipper and are a breath of fresh air. We enjoy the life and color they bring to Grace college!!

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major? I will be a fifth year senior this year at Grace.
Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer? I am working some at Kohl's, (not as much as i need to be), but mostly I just hang out with my friends and go boating on Winona Lake and enjoy everything that I can for as long as I can as often as I can.
Q. What do you do for leisure? Um...I don't know? Haha! I don't really do "leisure" in the traditional sense, i.e.-just laying around and not doing anything. So I guess my "leisure" time would be whenever I am having an adventure or doing random crazy things or biking or hanging out i guess? Mostly, I always like to be doing SOMETHING!
Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what? I am kind of in between books right now, recently, (last two weeks), i have read The DaVinci Code, Speak, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, A Calvin & Hobbes comic collection, Feed, Fight Club, Smack, and A Million Little Pieces. I am an English major, so reading is kind of like second nature to me, hence the long list i guess? Today in the bank, i read all of the children's books while i waited for the next available teller....i think that makes me a freak? haha!
Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life? I don't know that i can really narrow down the vast sea of counsel that i have sought and received into a nice, fortune cookie phrase. I can't even say for sure if there has been a singular specific conversation that has been the most meaningful to me. What i can say is that over the course of my time here at Grace, and particularly this last year and these last few weeks even, i have received the kind of counsel that i can look at as a marking place for change in my life. At almost every major junction of growth that i can think of over the past few months, there have been incredibly influential people who have offered me the best advice and the freshest perspectives i could possibly hope for. I guess, all that to say, the best counsel i receive on a consistent basis definitely comes from my roommate, Matt-he is the kind of person who constantly and un-apologetically challenges my point of view and this definitely makes me a better person than i could ever hope to be on my own.

Interview with Alisha Miller

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major? a SENIOR! I am an English Ed. major.
Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer? I am working at Grace College as a secretary as well as vacationing some and hanging out with my family.
Q. What do you do for leisure? I like to read, go on walks with my puppy, talk with my friends on the Internet, and hang out with family.
Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what? I am reading "End of the Spear" by Steve Saint which is the freshman summer reading. I also just finished "Crazy Love" by Francis Chan. Both books have been incredibly challenging to my Christian walk.
Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life? I think the best counsel has been to "Not worry about and plan out tomorrow." (James 13) While I'm not always sure what is next in life for me, I know that God will reveal it to me in his perfect timing.

Momentum Day 3 and 4

Yesterday passed in such a rush I didn't have time to blog. Yikes! It was wonderful to have "back up" support come in on Wednesday evening in the form of faculty and staff from the school. They did a great job during the youth leader and alumni event and worked hard for the day and a half they were here.

Yesterday was Grace day at momentum and we were able to host a Wii tournament. Everyone enjoyed watching the kids battle it out in a large room. With 4 Wii's set up and the games being projected onto giant screens, you felt as though you were at a crazy video game convention. The Grace people did a superb job keeping everyone on track and making sure the kids were having a great time. In all the busyness yesterday I didn't get any pictures from the tournament...but here are a few from the youth leader/alumni event. A very special THANK YOU to all those from Grace who came to help out - you were great!! :)

Momentum Day 2

I really don't know how these kids have all this crazy energy. You can hear them walk by, talking about how late they stayed up and how little sleep they need. I know they'll crash when they get home later this week!

We've had fun watching the kids stop by our table playing Wii, generally beating us when we take them on. My video game skills are greatly lacking. We have also met up with some Grace Alumni - pictured above with Matt and John is Brandy Mayes. She has been busy taking care of her little baby and helping her husband with their youth group from Ohio.

We are looking forward to some faculty and staff arriving this afternoon to assist with some Grace sponsored events. Tonight it's a smoothie bar for all youth workers and alumni! Should be fun and we are looking forward to a large crowd.

This mornings session speaker was Gabe Lyons and our very own Dr. DeYoung was able to present a spotlight on God's Word on Creation. Another great time learning from God's Word.

Momentum Day 1

Momentum in Pittsburgh, PA!! Several Grace people have made the trek to Robert Morris University. Today is the first full day of the conference and the kids are wide awake and full of energy (ok so they were a little blurry eyed at 8:00 am this morning but they are in full force now!). It has been great seeing some "old" faces, incoming students for this fall (Jake, Alex, Stephanie, Bethany, Trenton, and many more), and a lot of new students. As admission counselors we are excited to be spending time with all these kids.
We had a wonderful time of worship with the Steve Fee band. It was a great reminder that we were there to worship God - to sing HIS praises and not just there to hang out. Shawn McBride opened God's Word and shared from Hebrews 12. We are to lay aside every weight and hindrance that is keeping us from full pursuit of God. Very, very challenging and encouraging.
So right now the kids are all off to Power Tracks - mini-sessions where they can pick a topic...I'll post more later - off to chat with some other people!

Interview with Matt Little

Another one of my great friends and co-workers! I so enjoy working with Matt and he brings great life and laughter to the office.

Q. How long have you been working in admissions here at Grace?

About one year. However, I also worked as a Student Ambassador for three.

Q. What is your favorite part about the job?

2 come to mind first: 1) The people! The students we’re welcoming to Grace, the students already at Grace, my fellow Admissions workers- all of them are incredible. I look forward to coming to campus just so I can interact with them day after day. 2) The opportunity I have to make the college search process easier on families. I remember the stress and anxieties that I felt when I was looking. Serving a family in order to lessen these challenges is incredibly rewarding.

Q. What do you do for leisure?

I love nature, I love the arts, and I love (most) people, so anything involving one of these three is leisure for me: a walk through the woods, watching an old film, going to a coffee shop with friends, etc.

Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what?

2 actually: Desiring God by John Piper and Leading with a Limp by Dan Allender.

Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life?

So many memories of shared wisdom come to mind. It’s almost impossible to choose. However, one morsel of truth that made a huge impression on me in college, and still impacts me today, is the following statement by Alan Redpath:

“"There is nothing- no circumstance, no trouble, no testing- that can ever touch me until, first of all, it has come past God and past Christ, right through to me. If it has come that far, it has come with great purpose, which I may not understand at the moment. But as I refuse to become panicky, as I lift my eyes to Him and accept it as coming from the throne of God for some great purpose of blessing for my own heart, no sorrow will ever disturb me, no trial will ever disarm me, no circumstance will ever cause me to fret, for I shall rest in the joy of what my Lord is."

Interview with Cassie Patterson

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major? SENIOR...woo hoo! I have mixed emotions about graduating though. Can't wait to see where God leads me for the next part of my life, yet will miss Grace and the wonderful people there! Counseling and Criminal Justice are my majors

Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer? Doing four online courses, babysitting, and rollerblading 20 miles a day with my mom (I hope I'm like her when I'm over 50!)

Q. What do you do for leisure? Hike, Kayak, Sail, Eat tons of food, Catch up on movies that I don't have time to watch at college

Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what? Child Development, Social Psychology, Social Problems, Life Span Development.....notice they are all textbooks. NOT cool.

Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life? Enjoy the little things in life!

Interview with Jaimie Ove

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major?
Junior. Major: Counseling. Double Minor: International Business and Intercultural Studies
Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer?
Working in Chicago for the Trolley and Double Decker Company. Hanging out with friends, going camping and exploring state parks!
Q. What do you do for leisure?
Hiking and camping, going to tropical sno, a local shaved ice shack, and hanging out in Chicago.
Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what?
The Four Season of Marriage by Gary Chapman. Love and Respect by Eggriches. (I want to be a marriage and family counselor :) not getting married any time soon)
Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life?
"If a man loses pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured, or far away." - Henry David Thoreau

Interview with Jenn Gaylor

Jenn is one of our delightful admission counselors here at Grace ( and I love working with her!). Here's a little bit about her....

Q. How long have you been working in admissions here at Grace? I have been working in admissions at Grace for 1 year.

Q. What is your favorite part about the job?

I really enjoy the incredible team I get to work with and being a part of impacting students through their journey of choosing a college.

Q. What do you do for leisure? Where to start : ) I enjoy spending time with my husband and dog Bruiser, running, boating, shopping, conversation with friends over a great cup of coffee, movies….just to name a few things.
Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what? Currently reading: Good to great, Cold Tangerines, Pagan Christianity, 10 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership, Jesus Wants to Save Christians, and Romans (oh gosh…just realized I need to finish these, lol)
Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life? Make sure you always have Home Field Advantage! You will not be successful in life, if you are not “winning at home”.

Inteview with Zac Hess

We're starting a new little segment this summer...instead of just my commentary on life! We will be taking a look at several different students as well as admission counselor's here at Grace. Hope you enjoy!

Zac Hess:

Q. What year will you be this fall at Grace and what is your major?
Senior

Major: Biblical Studies with a minor in Youth Ministries

Q. What are you spending your time doing this summer?
Pastoral Internship at Southview GBC in Ashland Ohio

Q. What do you do for leisure?
I have been doing a lot of golfing and fishing so far!

Q. Are you currently reading any books? If so, what?
The Glory of Christ by John Owen, it's pretty sweet!

Q. What single bit of counsel has made the most significant difference in your life?
This is a difficult question to answer because I have received a lot of good advice, but something that sticks out is, you take care of your character and let God take care of your reputation.

Thank you Zac!!

Beautifully Broken

This weekend was absolutely glorious! The Masterworks festival is in town until the middle of July. They are a performing arts festival of various musicians and theatre and dance. They have free performances over the weekends, Friday through Sunday as well as others throughout the week occassionally. This past weekend, the faculty performed all three evenings. On Saturday night there was one piece by Beethoven which was incredible! The piece had random segments in which the music seemed slightly off, slightly out of place, slightly wrong! The first time this interruption came, I was taken slighlty aback by it, and was honestly, rather embarrassed that the faculty would make such a mistake. By the third time, I realized that the composer had written the piece like that! By the end of the piece I had come to appreciate this brokenness in the midst of the beautiful sound. I don't think I can quite put into words (an unfortunate and common personality trait! :)) how and why I transitioned from finding the bits of brokeness embarrassing, to finding them beautiful. But something about it reminded me of the way in which God composes the music of our lives. There is an obvious beauty to it, a reflection of the Composers own beautiful nature intermingled with the sporadic broken keys. I guess I felt that the more I heard the broken notes the more beautiful the rest of the composer's piece sounded to me. As though those moments served merely to enhance the beauty of the rest of the piece. So in a rather big way, Beethoven's piece, served the purpose of reminding me of our Heavenly Father's work of composition in my own life!

I look forward to attending more of the performances put on by the Masterworks! This group in comprised of absolutely incredible and talented musicians, dancer, and thesbians dedicated to the glory of their God through their gifts in music.

Forgiving When it Hurts

There are so many times in life when someone hurts you. It can happen when you least expect it or even when you think you are carefully guarded against hurt. At those moments it is so hard to extend forgiveness to someone who 1. has not asked for it 2. in our minds doesn't deserve it 3. has repeatedly offended us.
Our flesh is so strong. We very naturally protect ourselves and defend ourselves when someone has recently hurt us. For me personally it is so hard to be humble and apologize especially if I feel the other person has done more wrong in the situation then me. However, God keeps us accountable for ourselves. Do you remember when Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive?
"Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?'
"Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times'" (Mt 18:21-22). Jesus was not specifying a numerical limit of seventy-seven, so you have no excuse for telling someone, "Okay, that's seventy-six times. You only have one more to go, so watch out!" He was using numbers to make a contrast that is easy to remember. Love "keeps no record of wrongs," so a tally of someone's offenses is out of the question (1 Cor 13:5).The whole point that Jesus is making here is to continue to forgive, in spite of your own feeling, no matter how many times you have had to extend forgiveness.
Quiet honestly we can’t do this in our own strength. The only way we can forgive someone is when we remember how much God has forgive us. That should be our motivation for forgiving others – what Christ has done for us. Because if we look at the cross and say, “wow, God did that to forgive my sin? How can I not forgive another?”
It does not make it any easier, but it does make it possible for us to do it. Because at that point our focus is not on ourselves…it is on the greatness and kindness of God.

Home!

It's been a couple of weeks; work with the 4-H is getting super busy as we gear up for the fair in a couple of weeks! This past weekend I had the opportunity to go home for a few days. Home for me is Pennsylvania, so it was a little drive to get there but TOTALLY worth it!! I never thought I would come to appreciate home so much, but it's such a refreshing place. As I get older, every time I go home I find that there is something new that I rediscover and cherish. My family is one of the biggest things; I have learned a lot about loving them well these past few years while I've been away at college and it's really neat to go home and spend time with them. Additionally it's amazing to go home and see my home church family. These are the people who have helped form me into the person I am today- they taught me in Awana, mentored me through high school, supported me with money and prayer when I went on trips, and they upheld me in prayer when I went to college. This past Sunday I wasn't able to stay for church but was only able to attend Sunday School and I realized how many people in my church have poured into my life. Person after person wanted to see me between services just to find out how everything is going and it's really cool to see the Church functioning like that. It really is a spiritual family. How about you? Do you have relationships in your home church where you can see God forming you? Are you getting to know people from different generations? I sure hope so :-) It's such a huge blessing and encouragement!!
I hope you have an amazing rest of the week!

Rain, Rain Go Away

It's rained all day. I shouldn't complain. It has actually been quite nice to watch it fall, its just making me sleepy! I love how the rain makes everything so green and refreshed.
Today we sat down in a meeting to plan some things for the fall. The students have now been gone a month and I too am starting to feel refreshed (give it another month or so though!). Not that the students are exhausting, but when they are here it signifies the extra busy time around campus. Its is neat to see during the summer how everything here at Grace is getting a deep cleaning and freshened up. The dorms, the classrooms, the professors, and the staff. Summer is a nice time for us to reflect and also look forward as we re-energize. I guess it's like the cool rain for us!

Walks and Reminders

The summers here in Winona Lake are simply beautiful! There's been quite a bit of rain these past few days, but the weekend was lovely and I was able to take a couple walks around the park and Village. I don't think I can quite put into words how refreshing it is to walk, take in the beauty, bump into friendly, familiar faces, spend time in the presence of the Lord?! It refreshes the soul in an inexplicable way!

So, I watched the video that Mark posted for the first time today. Wow! Katie's right, it's worth taking the time to watch! Being a graduate student, I hadn't been in chapel that day. Watching the video reminded me of everything that I loved dearly about Grace and being a student here. The fact that all of us have a story, a story that has molded us into the people we are today. Some parts we want desperately to hide in a locked room in a dark corner of an abandoned basement, away from us, and away from others. Some parts, we can’t wait to share with the world and hope that the world will jump up and down in excitement with us! I had almost forgotten the extent to which Grace had been that to me. A place where my story could be heard. Where there were people to gently usher me into the basement, encouraging me to welcome my Heavenly Father there and allow Him to illuminate the darkness. Where people cried when I cried, and laughed when I laughed! My story was heard! And perhaps one of the most beautiful things of all? My story collided with many other stories! What a blessing it is to have had that!

Weekends and Work!

Summer is definitely in full swing around here! At my job in the extension office we're hurrying to be ready for the fair which is coming up beginning July 6th. We have LOTS of preparation left to do, but it's so fun working with the families of Kosciusko county. It's a really unique chance to get to know a lot of people in the communities around Winona Lake. My weekend gave me plenty of time to relax though and not think about work :-) Friday evening I was able to have dinner with a wonderful lady from my church here before I played the game "Settlers of Catan" with some friends from Grace. Then Saturday I went shopping with my roommate, Jillian. It was a good day of girl-time! Sunday I was able to go to church and help with the 3 and 4 year old Sunday School class. That age just never ceases to amaze me! They're so independent and tell you about everything. Their faith in God is so innocent and unwavering- it makes me really think about how easy it is as an adult to worry and stress over details instead of unquestioningly trusting my Savior. Those kids certainly set an example for us as adults...I should probably take a hint from them! Enjoy the rest of your week!

Party in the Office

Today's we're having a little going away party for Jason. He has been working in admissions here at Grace for...hmmm...well.....quiet awhile. More than 4 years at least! So its a bitter sweet day around here. We do love to have a party whenever we can but we will certainly miss his wealth of knowledge and humor.
This morning I was listening to the birds sing as I got ready for work and it was a beautiful sound. I was so thankful for a couple of things: 1. I can hear. 2. New mornings and new grace from God. 3. Creatures (birds) that sing praise to their Maker in the morning - reminding me to have a thankful heart.
I hope you have a wonderful weekend - dwell on the things you are thankful for!

Holiday Weekend!

Well, yesterday was my one day off this summer and it was certainly a great long weekend! This summer I am working for the Kosciusko County Extension Office as a 4-H summer staffer. I worked the same place last summer and it's such a blessing being able to live in Winona Lake during the summer! This weekend I hung out with my friend, Adriane, a lot. Friday night we were on a walk around the gorgeous island and were invited into the home of a family we go to church with when we walked past their house. They have such an awesome perspective of ministry and we just chatted with them for almost 2 hours! Saturday I had the chance to hang out with another family from my church. I feel like a part of this family and was able to do laundry and have a home-cooked meal that I didn't have to make :-) (always a plus when you live on your own!). Sunday included church and more hangout time before I just relaxed yesterday. Now it's back to work for the rest of the week. I love it!

As I was logging in to write this blog, I noticed the video that Mark posted earlier. I know it's 9 minutes, but it would totally be worth your time to watch it. I just sat here and watched part of it and it was such an awesome reminder of how God works on our campus and in our community here at Grace...I am loving summer but I'm excited to see how He will work this coming school year too! I hope you're all having a great week and that you enjoyed the long weekend :-)

Quiet Office

I don't know if it's as quiet as Cara mentioned below. Earlier today I heard alot of laughs when someone poured a portion of their bottled water into my shoe...the shoe that one of our fabulous admissions counselors untied.

Perhaps it's quiet, but there is some mischief going on in the admissions office these days. But it's all in good humor as the admissions team continues to recruit great students for the Fall. I predict it is going to be an exciting summer and a good Fall with hundreds of new students attending Grace.

May in Winona

The sun is out. The sky is a beautiful clear blue. The village down at Winona Lake is busy with people walking, riding bikes, sitting on porches, or lying on the grass in the park reading and napping. It really is "picture perfect". But I'm not down at the village right now (I just saw all that earlier). No, I am a block away on campus in Mt. Memorial. Its quiet here too. A little too quiet. You see, usually we have student ambassadors who would be coming in to work in about 15 minutes. They usually stop by our office to say hi and let us know what's going on around campus. We have a lot of laughs, hear their stories, and enjoy their friendship. But no, none of that is happening and hasn't happened all week. They are all home for the summer with all the other Grace students enjoying their break. We really miss them :( There are a few stray kids - taking summer school, but that wraps up tomorrow. Then we're just "stuck" with each other (actually I do love the people I work with). And sad to say y'all be hearing about campus from my perspective this summer and what is going on in our admissions office (unless some wonderful bloggers stop by to blog about their summer *hint,hint*...please oh, please I hope they do!!).
So all is quiet here as everyone moves about their tasks to get ready for another school year to start the end of August. We can't wait to see all the fresh and "refreshed" faces!

Are you a good Christ?

Happy Summer everyone!! This is an article from one of my favorite pastors Francis Chan. I hope he doesn't mind me sharing it with you all:) I hope you will read this and then put it into action. I know I can do a better!!

Are You a Good Christ?
By Francis Chan
I think it's time we stop asking ourselves the question: "Am I a good Christian?" We live in a time when the term "Christian" has been so diluted that millions of immoral but nice people genuinely consider themselves "good Christians." We have reduced the idea of a good Christian to someone who believes in Jesus, loves his or her family, and attends church regularly. Others will label you a good Christian even though your life has no semblance to the way Christ spent His days on earth. Perhaps we should start asking the question: "Am I a good Christ?" In other words, do I look anything like Jesus? This question never even entered my mind until a friend of mine made a passing comment to me one day.
Dan is a long time friend of mine. In fact, he's the pastor who performed my wedding. He was talking to me about a pastor named Von. Von has been working with youth in the San Diego area for decades. Many of his students have gone on to become amazing missionaries and powerful servants of God. Dan described a trip to Tijuana, Mexico with Pastor Von. (Von has been ministering to the poor in the dumps of Tijuana for years). Dan didn't speak of the awful living conditions of those who made their homes amidst the rubbish. What impacted Dan the most was the relationship he saw between Von and the people of this community. He spoke of the compassion, sacrifice, and love that he witnessed in Von's words and actions as he held these malnourished and un-bathed children. Then he made the statement that sent me reeling:
"The day I spent with Von was the closest thing I've ever experienced to walking with Jesus."
Dan explained that the whole experience was so eerie because he kept thinking to himself: "If Jesus were still walking on earth in the flesh, this is what it would feel like to walk alongside of Him!" After that discussion, I kept wondering if anyone had ever said that about me-"The day I spent with Francis was the closest thing I've ever experienced to walking with Jesus." The answer was an obvious "no." Would any honest person say that about you?
What bothered me was not that I hadn't "arrived," but that I wasn't even heading in the right direction. I hadn't made it my goal to resemble Christ. I wasn't striving to become the kind of person who could be mistaken for Jesus Christ. Isn't it ironic that a man can be known as a successful pastor, speaker, and CHRISTian even if his life doesn't resemble Christ's?1 John 2:6 "Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did."
When John made that statement, he wasn't speaking about how to be a church leader or even how to be a "good" Christian. He merely stated that anyone who calls himself Christian must live like Jesus did. So how did Jesus live? You could make a list of character traits to compare yourself to, but it would be far more beneficial to simply read through one of the Gospels. After you get a bird's-eye view of the life of Christ, do the same with your own. Are you comfortable with the similarities and differences?
It's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of "success" as American church-goers define it. The thought of being well-known and respected is alluring. There have been times when I've been caught up in the fun of popularity. I've even mistaken it for success. Biblically, however, success is when our lives parallel Christ's. Truth is, there are many good Christs that you'll never read about in a magazine. They are walking as Jesus walked, but they are too focused and humble to pursue their own recognition.
May we make it our goal to someday have someone say of us: "The day/hour/15 minutes I spent with ______ was the closest thing I've ever experienced to walking with Jesus."
As Christians in America, we often complain about how antagonistic people are toward Christ. Personally, I'm not sure that Americans are really rejecting Christ. Maybe they just haven't seen Him.
Try to be COMPLETELY honest with yourself right now. Is the following true of you?
You passionately love Jesus, but you don't really want to be like Him. You admire His humility, but you don't want to be THAT humble. You think it's beautiful that He washed the feet of the disciples, but that's not exactly the direction your life is headed. You're thankful He was spit upon and abused, but you would never let that happen to you. You praise Him for loving you enough to suffer during His whole time on earth, but you're going to do everything within your power to make sure you enjoy your time down here.
In short: You think He's a great Savior, but not a great role model.
The American church has abandoned the most simple and obvious truth of what it means to follow Jesus: You actually follow His pattern of life. I pray for those who read this article- that we don't become cynical or negative toward the church. Instead, let's make a personal decision to stop talking so much and begin living like Jesus. Then we can say as the apostle Paul, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ" (1 Corinthians 11:1). My guess is that you've never had someone say that to you, and you've never said it to anyone else. Why Not?

Pressure

It seems like everywhere one turns, bad news awaits. Bad economy. President Obama at Notre Dame. Earthquake near Los Angeles. College affordability. Ohio State University.

Well, I am seeing more positive trends with the students who are looking at Grace College. At least, that's how I am looking at the situation. In spite of a slow week last week, students are depositing on pace with last year's record freshman class. We've already eclipsed last week's deposit total for the week with today's strong start.

Will this trend continue?

I think so.

Well, I definitely hope so!

GRADUATION

Several of my very dearest friends graduate from Grace College tomorrow morning. This means a cap and gown; 4+ years of achievement and learning; so many memories; a change of life; ...oh and a diploma! Almost forgot haha. ;-b They will not be back this fall: I AM GOING TO MISS THEM!!! What an emotional day it will be. How can I be so happy for them yet so sad to see them leave? Life presents you with so many relationships that while you have them it's easy to forget what a gift they are and how much they enrich your life until you are faced with the prospect of having none, or less, of them.

I just wanted you to know, Jeff and Arturo and Annie and Kristy, Sarah and Micah and everyone else who has reached the beginning of this new end: I treasure you, the relationship we share, the times we have spent together on campus and off. I'm grateful that being here has given me some of the closest friends I've ever had and will continue to have forever! My friends, I am praying for each one of you, and can't wait for the times of reunion down the road. May God bless you and keep you, make His face to shine upon you, and give you Peace... Pursue Him with all your heart, and always remember that HE IS FAITHFUL!

Happy Graduation, Class of '09!!! :)


CARPE DIEM!

Campus Tour in Video

I was sent the following link from a colleague at Grace and thought more people should see this work done by a student. It's interesting, not totally accurate, but interesting nonetheless. I think it's worth sharing because it gives a nice quick look of campus life.

Take a look by clicking on the link below--and enjoy the tour. Then, give the A-Team a call in admissions so they can help you better understand the great place called Grace College. We're a growing college that is worth considering!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ieCBGzCmtQ

Here are more photos from the Bike Race

"If I can't win in the big person's race, I am going to win
this race."



Crossing the finish line well ahead of my nearest
challenger...it looks like we won the race but our
team actually finished in fourth place.


Matt Hotchkin, third from left in grey shirt, gets
our team off to a good start with his fourth-place
effort. At least he didn't crash his bike!



Michael Voss finishes his leg of the race as Aubrey
Evans jumps on the bike very quickly.

Team Grace

This past weekend, four members from the Grace College community (Michael Voss, Matt Hotchkin, Aubrey Evans and Mark Weinstein) participated in a community event in the Village of Winona. It was the annual Fat and Skinny bikefest that included a relay race on "cruisers." This is a bike like I have never experienced. Well, I hadn't experienced it in 40 years.

This one-speed bike was used by all 16 teams in the relay that took place around the Island in Winona. It was a beautiful day with the temperature hovering near 70 degrees, plenty of sunshine, and along the race course, many people cheering each team. Our goal, as a team, was to win the race. Another goal was to have fun. We had a lot of fun as we finished fourth. We would have finished higher if it wasn't for the oldest person on our team--it wasn't my intention to lose one spot in the final order (I got the bike with us in third place).

Below are some pictures from the race. As you will see, the team was excited at the beginning of the race and from one of the pictures, it looks like I brought home the championship. Oh, pictures can be misleading at times. Nevertheless, it was a great opportunity to be a part of our community, something we are committed to doing every year. Grace will field a team in this race for years to come and be a sponsor of the Fat and Skinny event that brings many bikers to our community each year.

What a great time we had; what a great opportunity to rub elbows and skin knees with so many other people. Being part of a community is real special...and our team had a blast!

Oh, by the way, after the race, I felt so good (physically) that I talked a little girl off her bike so I could compete (and win) in the age 5-7 race. I was a little taller than most of those competitors, but no one really noticed. (See this photo, and others, in the post above).

Games at TOL

The on-campus Tree of Life has an entirely different atmosphere tonight compared to this past week. As I sit here studying for my Sociology final (which really means I am surfing the internet) and watching students herd in and out of this socialization spot, I see a majority of the students with smiles on their faces while they play Dutch Blitz or Settlers of Catan. I assume these students see the need for a break from their studies and possess an attitude of excitement for summer. While Grace College is deeply enveloped in finals week, it is encouraging to see students still relaxing enjoying each others' company. I also believe that the lively students at Tree of Life realize that they have few days left to enjoy their friends and want to make the most out of their last times together before they part for summer.

'Tis the end.

Here we are at the end of classes, into our week of final exams for the close of another school year. Time is so fleeting, and the last few days have given me a hunger for reflecting on the memories of so many moments here at Grace. I am truly grateful for all of the experiences I've gone through, created, or been put through during these college years. I'm going to miss my friends who are graduating a lot...like, a lot. I love you guys. Never give up that place you have in my life, please. :) To the rest of campus and friends...see you really soon! And when our time comes to leave and enter the real world like the brave ones who are going before us...

CARPE DIEM!!! :)

Love,
Elly

Surprise Party

The last week of school is approaching. It’s time to finish all the projects, hang out with all your friends, and try to pull an A in that crazy math class. As for tonight, it’s party time! My hall is about to throw a surprise party for the Growth Group Leaders this year. The girls work so hard to make sure they love on the freshman and on all the girls on the hall. The unpaid time they put into weekly meetings and prayer for spiritual growth for the girls can never truly be repaid through a party, but we are going to try. We have snacks and balloons picked out so we are set. The girls are going to go on a scavenger hunt and get clues from girls on the hall to their next destination. They will end up back on the hall with everyone waiting to give hugs and flowers. I am so thankful for the hall leadership this year. I love them all dearly and thank God for the impact they have had on my life.

SAB Blowout

What a long day I had! Today, I went to the Student Activities Board end of the year Blowout event. I was looking for relief from the loads of homework I was working on; therefore, I went to Beta field to enjoy the weather, blow-ups, Mr. GC contest, and a performance from Grace College's own two man band, Better in Plaid.
I raced my roommate through the blow-up obstacle course and fought her in the blow-up boxing ring. While I lounged on the grass, I listened to the group "Better in Plaid" perform a variation of acoustic songs, such as "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz, a favorite of mine. The Mr. GC contest gave me a couple of laughs when the contestants dressed up in 80's wear and had to answer questions about their experience at Grace. Congratulations to Steve Fowler, a freshman, who won the crowd with his soccer skills and fantastic fashions. Before returning to my homework, I went to the bonfire and relaxed in the atmosphere of a warm breeze, friends, and the glowing light of the fire. The SAB Blowout was an enjoyable vacation before we head into the last full week of school!

The Home Stretch

In exactly two weeks school will be done. I"m not going to lie, I'm excited. The last two weeks are often the hardest to concentrate and be productive. They are also the busiest as final projects, papers, and speeches are due. I've heard a lot of students say this week is harder than exam week. I would agree. So far this week I have done two projects, five papers, and over 60 pages in reading. Good times. 

These last couple of weeks are also when things start getting planned for next year. Leadership positions are finalized and housing is determined. It's a lot of work, but it helps to get the next year off to a good start. 

Housing Lottery or Ulcer Attack

So last night was Grace College's Housing Lottery. It was my first experience with the lottery and I didn't know what to expect. From previous years, I had thought there had been cat fights and tears and blood, so I went into it prepared for a fight. But the whole process was calm and collective and in the end, every one still had their teeth. Now the lottery did not go as I had hoped for me and was placed in one of my last picks. So the past day has been a stretching process for me, learning to accept what God has given me as a good thing. Now I really, really, really like to be in control and in a lottery situation...you are not in control at all. So this was God's way of telling me, 'hey jaimie, it's not all about you having control. I made you, I formed you, and I know what's best for you.' So while I am still trying to digest this lesson, I am continually being shown by God how amazing and loving He truely is. So remember this boys and girls: when you think everything is out of control and that you are about to have an ulcer, God has got your back, always has, and always will.

The Face Of Grace:
j-MO
(p.s. weather's getting better, if you live in the area come out for our baseball games! Home games Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 1! See you at Miller Field!)

Tin Caps

We have had some great weather here at Grace lately. This weekend was beautiful and students came out from hibernation. Everyone was outside running and biking by the lake, tennis golf was going around campus, and everyone was out on the grass doing some reading and homework for the end of the semester. Spring is such a beautiful time of the year with everything in bloom and amazing sunsets over the lake again. I was especially thankful for the nice weather this past Friday. My hall, along with my brother hall decided to go to Ft. Wayne to a Tin Caps’ game. The Tin Caps are the minor league baseball team in Ft. Wayne. They have a brand new stadium in downtown and it was a perfect night for baseball. We all piled in vehicles and headed to Chipotle and then the game. We had great seats right down third base line where the 25 of us hung out and watched the Tin Caps beat Dayton, Ohio. It was a great night to get closer with our hall mates and our brother hall and enjoy the beautiful spring weather.

Only at Grace College...

I attended a funeral today. It was a service to celebrate the life of a well-loved brother, father and grand-father who will be sorely missed. Many students came to honor the family today with their presence and comforting support. What was the connection?

This man was the father of our music theory professor. Not a family member, not a close friend or even a peer. A teacher, our professor. It was such a beautiful service, but what also struck me was the beauty in the crowd itself. Family, close friends, and us...the students. Where else does community play such a large part than in the family of God, encouraged by a college with such an emphasis on relationship as Grace does? I was so glad to be called a Grace College student today, and be counted among those who cried with our beloved prof and his family over the loss, and rejoiced with them for the memories and laughter they shared!

At the beginning of this year in chapel we were challenged to become a campus of lovers (all right you immature ones, get the giggles out and then come back to read the rest of this ;)... I believe today was one example of love freely given and received because we are alive in Christ and have answered His call to to be lovers! :)

Carpe Diem!
Elly

Fabulous Fee Concert

What a great way to start another Lancer Day. The Steve Fee concert was spectacular as approximately 800 attended this concert in the award-winning Orthopaedic Capital Center. Then, today, our guests were treated to an informational day on campus that included a special tour of campus, chapel, and interaction with faculty and staff.

The Lancer Day program has been a huge success this year. If you haven't participated in the past, be sure to check our website for future Lancer Day opportunities. You enjoy them, I promise!

What a comeback!

Last saturday, our baseball team had a double header against Taylor University. While our boys have put in a good effort over the past season, there haven't had many wins to show for it. I have been a faithful baseball attender (well at least the home games) since a few of my close friends play on the team. Loss after loss has occured, so by saturday we as the fans were pretty discouraged. It gets the bottom of the seventh inning and the score is 9 to 1 in their favor. I, at this point, had gone to the fence in left field and decided to take a short nap, since there was another game to follow. As I'm laying there staring up at the clouds trying to make shapes out of them, I hear it...CRACK! It was a home run hit by Ryan Combs which brought our score up to only being down by five. By the end of the inning we had scored 8 runs, including hitting two home runs, the other hit by Brent Easterday! The atmosphere was filled with excitement, you should have seen our boys jumping up and down shouting encouragement out to their fellow teammates! We ended up pulling off three more runs to beat them in the 9th inning. Let me tell you, there was pure joy flowing throughout of our boys. It was well worth it to sit through the three hours and even have a burnt nose, just to be able to enjoy the moment with them.

:)
-jMO: the face of Grace

-Steve Fee tomorrow!!!!!!!!!

Proverbs 30:26

It’s a Sunday night and I am exhausted. The weekend has been crazy busy, but filled with a lot of fun. Junior/Senior banquet was on Friday night which was AMAZING food and fellowship. Then Saturday was a fun time watching the boys’ volleyball team and hanging out with the brother hall watching March Madness. Even though it was a great weekend, I have something else on my mind this evening as I’m fighting off the Zzzzz.
So today I learned something very interesting from a friend about an animal in the Bible. I bet you have never heard of a Hyrax! If you have, I’m VERY impressed. My good friend Val is an amazing artist and likes to color me pictures (yes we are in college). There is picture that she colored for me that I was unsure of exactly what it was. It kind of looks like a camel and a cow mixed with a llama. Anyways, coming across the word hyrax, we thought maybe this would explain the interesting picture. I must find out what a hyrax is so what do I do….I Googled it of course! Expecting an animal from the camel family, to my surprise was a strange little creature that I must say is rather scary looking. Kind of looks like a groundhog gone wrong. It’s no wonder why people weren’t allowed to eat it in the Old Testament. I wouldn’t pick a fight with that thing.
I’m sorry you took the time to read this blog. I know the picture is so intriguing you had to read. Now when you are reading through, Leviticus, Psalms, and Proverbs (yes that little guy hyrax is mentioned in all three) you will know what a hyrax is. Oh the things one learns at college!!