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Elizabeth
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jenngm67 wrote:
Utah!!! Yikes!  |
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Okay, here goes: Here in suburban Washington DC, I educate my children at home, in part, to protect them from rampant secular humanism in the popular culture. Everyday, we are bombarded by affronts to modesty. There is widespread drinking and drug use in public andprivate high schools. In Utah, there are Mormons. That is the popular culture. Still have to homeschool because I don't want them indoctrinated in school. And they are very good at evangelizing, so we'll watch the play dates and soccer teams--we do that anyway. But they wear garments under their clothes which must be covered at all times. They don't drink, smoke, or do caffeine.There are no travel soccer games on Sundays because Sunday is family day. On any given day, in my backyard, you can find a Muslim, a Sikh, an Hispanic-fallen-away-Catholic-turned-pentecostal and a mormon.I am not exagerrating. My son Christian has assembled an inter-denominational caucus with which to play football every afternoon. Talk about arming kids with apologetics! In Utah, I figure we'll have to be really good at the Mormon rebuttal  Granted, there are only 7 women on the Utahcatholichomeschoolers email list and none of them had heard of our list...but my dad drilled that "Make new friends...silver and gold" song into my head as a military child. And Angie and Chari and Kim make it sound like I'll be right around the corner (Do they have a distorted sense of distance in the west or is it that the traffic around here is so bad we have no perspective  ?
HOnestly, no matter where we live, I think my kids stand a better chance of growing well if their dad is around more than he is now. And I kind of miss him too  ...So, I'll go anywhere. I just wish it weren't 2000 miles away. And maybe it isn't. sometimes I think God brings us to these huge decision to show us clearly what we need. Than, he changes things up a bit, but allows us to keep the lesson. Who knows? Not me  PLEASE keep praying.
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Elizabeth Foss is no longer a member of this forum. Discussions now reflect the current management & are not necessarily expressions of her book, *Real Learning*, her current work, or her philosophy. (posted by E. Foss, Jan 2011)
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julia s.
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Elizabeth,
I don't know much about Utah, but when I was reading Karen Radcliffe's book Wild Days I had the most uncontrolable envy over all the lovely national parks there. In the back of her book she describes each and I so wanted to see all of that.
I pray that you are able to take deep breaths and enjoy every day. Enjoy your babies and your life. God is good. And I pray for heat in a cold house  .
__________________
julia
married to love of her life
with ds12 ds8 ds3 and ds1
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Chari
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| Posted: March 12 2005 at 11:14pm | IP Logged
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Elizabeth wrote:
"Make new friends...silver and gold" song into my head as a military child. And Angie and Chari and Kim make it sound like I'll be right around the corner (Do they have a distorted sense of distance in the west or is it that the traffic around here is so bad we have no perspective ?
PLEASE keep praying. |
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MY GOODNESS, ELIZABETH! It IS just around the corner! I checked at mapquest again.......and all I would have to do is drive to my family in Reno (3.5 hrs), stay the night and drive 8 hours to you in Utah! That is almost the same distance Robynn and I have to see each other.
and, YES......we definitely have a distorted sense of direction here in the west, or, would that be unique perspective?........EVERYwhere is far from each other here.......I live in the same state as my father-in-law.........and you would be closer to me in Utah!!
in the east........everybody is so close.....lots different!
Piece of cake!
I am trying SO hard not to influence God's decision for you (you know, pray selfishly for you to move closer to me  )
but, I WILL keep praying!!
btw............"Make new friends" is one of my all-time favorite songs in my memory......I was not a military "brat"........but, as the product of divorced parents.........I ended up at 13! different schools by the time I got to college. I KNOW the feelings.
I am sorry about the Utah Cath hsers list.......did you try just the city?
God bless!
__________________
Chari...Take Up & Read
Dh Marty 27yrs...3 lovely maidens: Anne 24, Sarah 20 & Maddelyn 17 and 3 chivalrous sons: Matthew 22, Garrett 16 & Malachy 11
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MaryM
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Elizabeth wrote:
| (Do they have a distorted sense of distance in the west or is it that the traffic around here is so bad we have no perspective ? |
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Yes, I think we do have a distorted sense of distance! It's just that western frontier mentality - wide open spaces will do that to you. It comes from the size of the states. Out here we can travel to a neighboring state and cover as much mileage as it takes to get through 3, 4, 5 states in some places in the East. Since most western states only have one large (and that term is relative) population center people get used to traveling a little further just to get to more shopping, entertainment options, etc.
We frequently travel just north of Salt Lake on our way to visit grandparents in Eastern Oregon. It takes about 14 hours for our trip. I do wish it was shorter. I would love to live closer to family - for me that would be 6 hours or less - I know to many that wouldn't seem like living close to family at all!
Elizabeth wrote:
| Granted, there are only 7 women on the Utahcatholichomeschoolers email list and none of them had heard of our list... |
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It doesn't surprize me that they hadn't heard of it. Maybe others don't notice but from what I can tell from posts the west is generally not well represented on these lists. Part of that I would attribute to lack of connection and conferences - there are not many Catholic homeschool conferences where people might hear about CM or other options out here. I think in general homeschoolers here are much more isolated unless you live in a more populated metropolitan area so even things like word of mouth are not happening for informing people of great resources if you are isolated.
We already know homeschoolers are a minortiy and Catholics in Utah are also, so just think where that leaves Catholic homeschoolers. Think quality instead of quantity.
From Utah's neighbor to the east - Colorado,
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Mary M. in Denver
Our Domestic Church
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Meredith
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Well, I just have to chime in here because you'll be the closest to ME! WE haven't met officially as I haven't met anyone in person from this list yet, but God willing (Chari) we'll be camping in California in July with a new baby boy!
I have met many of you through you're beautiful writing Elizabeth and I wouldn't trade this list for all the Mormons in Utah and Idaho combined, please no one take offense. My life and my family's have been immensely blessed by me being part of this list/group and your book really opened my eyes to how we wanted our journey to travel. I always felt it should be more *real* but never quite knew how to get there, so please know that you touch people no matter where you live
We are vastly spread out in the West but I found the original CCM list from my best girlfriend in Washington St. and she's just north of Seattle where we used to live. We NEEDED to get away from the city. God will definately take you where you need to go.
I am also one of the LONE Catholic home schooling moms in my area and it's been interesting, but I have found so many avenues for success that I may not have searched for if I'd have had a comfy group of people right in front of me to guide me along (or vice a versa).
My prayers will contiue to go out to your family as you make these tough decisions. I guess it's all part of the journey and the adventure, and just think your husband will be strapped in right along with you . Take care and big hugs  from the West!
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Meredith
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Chari
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Mary, You are SO right!
Living here is part of why we travel so much......we have to, or we would not get anywhere.
Like Meredith I am also the only Catholic hser in my town, maybe my county! I have never met even one! Well, there was one family........my BIL.....but they moved away nine yrs ago.........when I was still a neophyte.
Anyway..............in order to cope....I have depended on my attachments to CCM. Unlike Meredith, I have met very many ccm people ....but, you know that already. I have done that because it gets me through. I am most certain that had I not got on the internet......I would have been suffering years of depression, from the isolation. Just think of all my "bestest" friends I would not have.......scary, and lonely thought. (oh, here is where I get down on my knees and thank God that you and Michele started ccm  )
Even though you may be headed into isolation (and obscurity ).......there are so many blessings: the chance to be very focused on your family, travel opportunities, to get to a place to feel less isolated......company arriving at your house to throw your routines out the window :)...........you also can be creative, creating opportunities for your kids, and yourself.
There will be kindred spirits there......God will find them for you. I have a few very good friends here.......it would be nice if they were all Catholic.....but who knows where God will take our friendship.
I think I am beginning to ramble.......
Oh, I wanted to tell you something sweet:
I was talking to my Anne (16yrs) a couple of weeks ago......going through all that you need to do, endure, go through, with making this move.........and she sweetly offered to come to you in Utah, to help you do whatever it was you needed......watch kids, unpack, get settles, keep you company......for as long as you needed.
Her heart was so touched by all you have to do.....
funny, she never gave it much thought that "I" might not be able to part with her for "as long as you needed."
so, don't count on her....I am NOT giving her
up .....but, be comforted in the thought that you are loved all over the country
God bless your day...........prayers continued,
__________________
Chari...Take Up & Read
Dh Marty 27yrs...3 lovely maidens: Anne 24, Sarah 20 & Maddelyn 17 and 3 chivalrous sons: Matthew 22, Garrett 16 & Malachy 11
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Elizabeth
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Okay, where is the "sigh" emoticon. I went to Mass today and fought tears all the way through--there are so many people there who are so precious to me. And some of them have been my friends for nearly ten years! They've been there to welcome new babies, sung at baptisms, rescued me countless times from countless calamities. The thought of leaving was overwhelming. Then, I came home to Meredith's note and to Chari's. And I thought, "I can do this; it'll be fine."
Meredith, how far apart will we be?
Chari, Anne could be in for more than she and Claire bargained for in June ; we might be getting ready to move while they're here.
As far as obscurity goes, I have to believe that is a calling in and of itself. We are very involved as a family here in our parish. Dh is the charter Grand Knight of the K of C. I started and run a women's ministry and have my hand in about a half-dozen other things. My eldest ds is the altar server coordinator. DD is there almost everyday in one capactiy or another. It will be strange to walk into a parish and know nobody. Even stranger will be walking into a parish and having nobody know me. I've written for our diocesan paper for twelve years. People know my life story, for better or worse. The column is syndicated but it's not in Utah...
We'll go to a clean slate...God knows all that and I do believe that if we go to Utah, it's obscurity He is calling me to.
I've also found that when Mike is home (even if only for a few hours) I can see myself moving quite easily. But when he has been gone for a day or two (or more), it seems so daunting. That, I think, is because I really do rely on my IRL friends for support (both spiritual and practical) when he is not here and I can't imagine being without IRL friends.
Off again, to implore St. Joseph.
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Elizabeth Foss is no longer a member of this forum. Discussions now reflect the current management & are not necessarily expressions of her book, *Real Learning*, her current work, or her philosophy. (posted by E. Foss, Jan 2011)
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Elizabeth
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MaryM wrote:
Elizabeth wrote:
| Granted, there are only 7 women on the Utahcatholichomeschoolers email list and none of them had heard of our list... |
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It doesn't surprize me that they hadn't heard of it. Maybe others don't notice but from what I can tell from posts the west is generally not well represented on these lists. Part of that I would attribute to lack of connection and conferences - there are not many Catholic homeschool conferences where people might hear about CM or other options out here. I think in general homeschoolers here are much more isolated unless you live in a more populated metropolitan area so even things like word of mouth are not happening for informing people of great resources if you are isolated.
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You are so right, Mary. And it seems to me, regardless of where I live, that we should do something about this. There are pockets of the country where women don't know that there are many choices and options out there for providing an real, Cathoic education for their children. We need to open a topic on the Firesdie Chat board and talk about how we can bring Real Learning to the great west! Where else are women doing this alone?
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Elizabeth Foss is no longer a member of this forum. Discussions now reflect the current management & are not necessarily expressions of her book, *Real Learning*, her current work, or her philosophy. (posted by E. Foss, Jan 2011)
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alicegunther
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Elizabeth wrote:
| Even stranger will be walking into a parish and having nobody know me. I've written for our diocesan paper for twelve years. People know my life story, for better or worse. |
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I had the same exact feeling when we moved from our old parish to our current parish. I loved our old parish, knew most of the moms, and felt like "part of the scene." Many of the mothers are my dearest friends and knew me since I was a new mommy. Coming to this parish was strange, to say the least, and quite depressing. At first I thought I would never feel at home. Now, a year later, I can honestly say that I like this parish even better than my old one! Sure, I still miss many of the people we left behind, but our new parish has been so welcoming, so homeschool friendly (even though we are the only homeschoolers), and absolutely perfect for us in every way.
Your family will be loved and needed in any parish you join, so have no fear.
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Love, Alice
mother of seven!
  
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Brew yourself a cup of tea, and come for a visit!
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Meredith
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Elizabeth, well it's a huggy kind of day, more coming your way! So I figure if you're going to be in the Salt Lake City area (do you know where precisely yet?)I am in Southern Idaho just 30 minutes south of the Ketchum/Sun Valley ski resort (yes, where all the celebrities have monsterous homes, ehem). It takes us about 4-5 hours to drive to Salt Lake and there are direct flights from Sun Valley into SLC on Delta's puddle jumper called Sky West. Maybe we could have an Ole' West retreat after you arrive to welcome you, I'd love to see MacBeth in cowboy boots
We too left a very beloved parish back in Washington St. when we moved here, but our new parish has it's own wonderful people and they have opened their arms to us very readliy. God will put the right people in your path. My dearest friend here is not Catholic, but very Christian and has five children and is a wonderful home schooling friend. Connections will come when you least expect it.
Allright Chari, are you thinking with your spurs on, I'm thinking ribs, and corn on the cob, salads galore....Yee Haw!
(I am saying this tongue-in-cheek because I haven't been on a horse for twelve years! )
Will continue to pray, St. Joseph is a wonder-worker for us. *JMJ*
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Meredith
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JennGM
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I can see this will be so hard...I'm storming heaven for you! You're right, your nuclear family will be loads better having DH around.
What's the diocese like where you are going? I'm a Southerner/East Coaster and find it hard to be open to new places, particularly Utah! I KNOW you will have the graces galore to get through this.
About the Mormons, that would be the hardest thing to fight for me. So many of the people are very good, very nice, and many things we have in common, with the family and faith being number one priorities. But their religion isn't even Christian -- simple definition is a Christian is belief that Jesus is the Son of God, and Mormons don't, although they call themselves Christian. I've also seen analysis that they are more of a cult that religion. I'm only saying this as that will be something that you and your family will have to keep "on guard" against!
I've been involved in homeschooling communities for years, because of work or family interests, although I haven't homeschooled my own child yet and I only found out about CCM this past year. I couldn't believe that I've missed out so long! So your job, if you choose to accept it, is to evangelize and make Utah CCM ready!
Now Chari and the others might be rooting for you to come out their way, but I'm silently wishing it wouldn't happen...but merely for selfish reasons. But I am praying that God will send you that inner calm and peace!!!
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Jennifer G. Miller
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Angie Mc
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happyheartsmom wrote:
Allright Chari, are you thinking with your spurs on, I'm thinking ribs, and corn on the cob, salads galore....Yee Haw!
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I'll bring the Riders in the Sky CD's and Hank the Cowdog books to share  . I'm having visions of a CCM get-together at the Grand Canyon!
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Angie Mc
Maimeo to Henry! Dave's wife, mom to Mrs. Devin+Michael Pope, Aiden 20,Ian 17,John Paul 11,Catherine (heaven 6/07)
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Chari
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mmmmmmm, Meredith, that sounds good!!
WOW! Almost time to hold your baby! Does he have a name yet????
Oh, Elizabeth! Anne and Clare will appreciate whatever they get! They will just love to be NEAR you. To them, I am sure you are famous! Or, rather, infamous!! Do you think you would still be there in the middle of June? I kind of want you settled in Utah by July, so you can make the cmaping trip
not selfish, no, not I!
Actually.......Elizabeth can live where ever she lives......but if it is at all close to me..........I must take advantage of it!
Gosh, what fun we could all have living in the same community!
Now I am lonely........anyone want to come for a cup of tea??? I think Maria Peceli might next week........I'll count on that!
God bless,
without a dryer ......
__________________
Chari...Take Up & Read
Dh Marty 27yrs...3 lovely maidens: Anne 24, Sarah 20 & Maddelyn 17 and 3 chivalrous sons: Matthew 22, Garrett 16 & Malachy 11
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Elizabeth
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Well, the Westerners have me laughing but that's only after Mary Chris and I took a very long in-real-life walk and I finally had a good sob .Now, I'm just numb and tired and I just want to know...
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Elizabeth Foss is no longer a member of this forum. Discussions now reflect the current management & are not necessarily expressions of her book, *Real Learning*, her current work, or her philosophy. (posted by E. Foss, Jan 2011)
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MaryM
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Elizabeth wrote:
God knows all that and I do believe that if we go to Utah, it's obscurity He is calling me to.
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Elizabeth wrote:
| Now, I'm just numb and tired and I just want to know... |
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The issue really isn't where you move but the whole idea of moving and uprooting family and starting over - particularly compounded by going to a place where the Catholic community is small, but as several people have pointed out one doesn't have to move to Utah for that to happen - many places in southern US fit that category. The population of Catholics in Utah is about the same as the percentage in Northern Louisiana mentioned by Natalia.
I can't imagine that you and your family would remain obscure for long. I don't think that is possible for people with charisms and gifts like yours. I imagine that you will create a whole new community of CCM in Utah without even really trying just by your example and love of life and learning!!!
And since you were asking distances, Denver is only about 8 hours away which makes Colorado Springs about 9 hours and you know there are many of us here. It would be much closer as the crow flies, but there are these danged things called mountains in the way!!!
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Mary M. in Denver
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MaryM
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And another thought - since we know the Catholic Homeschool list for Utah is really small - have you thought about checking with Lesley and Karen at Heart and Mind magazine to see if there are any Utah, Western Colorado, Southern Idaho, or Eastern Nevada subscribers to the magazine?
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Mary M. in Denver
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alicegunther
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MaryM wrote:
I can't imagine that you and your family would remain obscure for long. I don't think that is possible for people with charisms and gifts like yours. I imagine that you will create a whole new community of CCM in Utah without even really trying just by your example and love of life and learning!!!
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Mary, this is a great point and expresses exactly what I would like to say to Elizabeth. Utah is about to become America's foremost Catholic homeschooling state. Too bad we can't all move there!
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Love, Alice
mother of seven!
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Victoria in AZ
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MaryM wrote:
| I can't imagine that you and your family would remain obscure for long. I don't think that is possible for people with charisms and gifts like yours. I imagine that you will create a whole new community of CCM in Utah without even really trying just by your example and love of life and learning!!! |
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Exactly. From your description of the lack of hs support, Utah NEEDS your family!
Utah will be lucky to have you
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Your sister in Christ,
Victoria in AZ
dh Mike 24 yrs; ds Kyle 18; dd Katie 12; and one funny pug
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Elizabeth
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DH is in Utah today--meeting with people who are likely to give him answers. He meets at 2PM Mountain Time. Your prayers are much appreciated.
__________________
Elizabeth Foss is no longer a member of this forum. Discussions now reflect the current management & are not necessarily expressions of her book, *Real Learning*, her current work, or her philosophy. (posted by E. Foss, Jan 2011)
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Victoria in AZ
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Elizabeth wrote:
| DH is in Utah today--meeting with people who are likely to give him answers. He meets at 2PM Mountain Time. Your prayers are much appreciated. |
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Tell us tell us tell us how it went
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Your sister in Christ,
Victoria in AZ
dh Mike 24 yrs; ds Kyle 18; dd Katie 12; and one funny pug
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4Real Forums : We Pray to the Lord
Topic: Job Interview
