Our Latest News

FYI: we disconnected our home phone, so don't call that number any more...our contact info is at the bottom of the email.

I just returned from Minneapolis, not having been there since I left 3 1/2 years ago. It was great to see old friends again, to see a friend get married, and to relive a lot of great memories. I also got to meet Karsten Finseth's fiance, Joni Lang...he made a good choice. : ) Every road I travelled or place I visited was filled with memories of my time spent there from 2001-2003. It's crazy how much has happened in the last 3 1/2 years,
and how time has flown by since then.

This part of the country (and hopefully yours as well) is finally cooling down from a very toasty July. Though I shouldn't really complain, as heat in Colorado is much more tolerable than heat + humidity in the midwest.

Anyway, we have a lot of new pictures up on the website. Many of you have been asking when we'll put up the Europe pictures from our trip in June...they're up, but I gotta warn you, there are lots of them so maybe you just want to look at the thumbnails. : ) Find those pictures and more from the below events at http://tommygunz.homeip.net.
May - Daniel's graduation
May/June - Europe
June - Dan and Jina (Hoogland) Tinklenberg's wedding (Amber's younger sister)
July - Allen & Chalena (Dillon) Minturn's wedding
July - my family's visit to CO for 3 weeks to finish the basement and enjoy the Rocky Mtns
August - my visit to Minneapolis for Neil Coleman & Alicia Capes' wedding and to see friends and some relatives (pics will be up soon)

So we've had a busy summer.

Do you ever feel like you can't slow down? That you want to but things keep on happening that seem to shift your life into the next highest gear? It's like getting on a Scrambler (a good 80's county fair or festival ride) and wanting to get off at the beginning of the ride yet it continues to pick up speed, whipping you in various directions faster and faster.

That's how I feel right now...that it's a struggle to slow down for the things that really matter. I'm not sure if I've bitten off more than I can chew or if this is just a busy season, or maybe if I've got my priorities all mixed up...maybe it's a combination of two or all three.

In any case, I'm ready for the fall...for the weather, the changing of the colors (especially in Colorado), and for the cooling off of not only the temperature, but also this busyness.

Here's to the God who provides his people with peace and rest when they need it...'he gives strength to the weak and rest to the weary...'

May, 2006--Summer update and helpful credit tips

Been awhile since I sent out one of these impersonal communications. Even so, I'll try to keep this as short as possible (read: "as short as is possible for me").

A lot has happened since the beginning of the year, including newborns for friends Ben and Renae Bieri, and Deric and Amber Moen, as well as a wedding for Mindy Galbreath (now Worthington).
There should be more weddings and newborns soon as well!

Also, Amber finally has a cell phone! Woohoo! Much to her dismay, her new phone is 970-590-9100. That's quite easy to remember. We will be ending our home phone line soon, so don't call (970) 392-2518 anymore.

I also got a new job with the same company, Countrywide. Should be more stress-free and enjoyable. Praise God for always providing (He would've provided even if I didn't get the new job).

Quick update: we've got a busy summer
May 4 - i'm flying to Iowa to surprise my brother for his graduation from Dordt College (amber's family and my family and my grandmas don't know either, so don't blow the secret!)
May 8 - i'm transitioning to a new job with Countrywide Home Loans...should be more enjoyable.
May 26 - amber and i leave for europe for our backpacking trip...sooooo if anyone has advice on european travel, places to see, places to stay, etc.--we would welcome the advice!
june 24 - Amber's sister Jina is marrying her fiance Dan Tinklenberg in Sioux Center, IA
1st week of July - my parents come out to colorado to hopefully get further in finishing our basement.

The other night Amber and I went to a short seminar on debt-free living. It was good to hear more on how to steward God's money. Some of the people had questions on credit scores and, as I work with people with okay credit to very poor credit every day, I disagreed with some of what he had to say. I figured I might as well share some articles with you that I've found helpful on credit scores. Read the articles, and if you have more questions, please feel free to contact me. I often work with a credit repair company in Denver for my clients.

One of the main things I disagreed with is to pay off and close as many credit accounts as you can. I agree with paying the balances down to zero, and even cutting up cards if necessary to curb spending habits, but closing accounts that you already have open and have a good payment history on might not be a good idea. For more on this, read the articles attached, especially "Beef up your credit score in 5 steps."

You can also find these articles and more for personal security of your information on our website at http://tommygunz.homeip.net/securitylinks.htm. The website will probably be down shortly, when Daniel graduates, so get the articles or pictures or free downloads or whatever while you can. I'll probably try to build a better one this summer or whenever I get time.

There are also new pictures on the website...from Christmas and New Year's 2005 to a superbowl party to Amber's trips back to Iowa to her sister Jina's wedding showers to Darren & Rachel De Groot's visit to CO to Amber's surprise birthday party, etc. I included a sampling at the end of this email. (http://tommygunz.homeip.net/gallery/) Again, if you'd like higher quality pics of what you find on the website, let me know and I'll send them to you.

January, 2006--New Year email

Dear family and friends,

It’s crazy to think that a full year has passed since we last sent out a letter. Because of a busy end-of-the-year, and due in part to laziness and convenience, we decided to send this out over email instead of snail mail—we are already way too late for a Christmas letter, so we’re calling this a late New Year letter. God has been so good and has blessed us in countless ways. This year has been fun and rewarding, and as always, fast paced. Tom and I are actually driving home to Iowa as I write this :) (I try to multi-task whenever possible).

Tom is still working at Countrywide Home Loans serving those with more difficult credit scores mostly. As I understand it, he sifts through tons of applications searching for those who Countrywide will finance and working at finding ways to help those who don’t meet Countrywide’s guidelines. Business started off a little slow at the beginning of last year, but has really picked up now, which keeps him at the office late some nights. On a good day this job interests him, but he hopes to someday find something more aligned with his passions.

Dayspring Christian School is still my career choice. I am really enjoying this year so far. The kids keep me on my toes and always bring a sense of humor to my day. Last spring I coached middle school track again. The kids were extremely dedicated and motivated to work hard. Because of this, they had some great records. This summer I spent some of my time teaching summer school. I like this because I get to see the kids improve by leaps and bounds over a short period of time.

Our summer was mostly spent attending weddings, including Tom’s sister, Sherry, who is married to Trent Johnson. We had a total of 12, but we were unable to make it to some because of timing, work, or prior commitments. Although there were a lot, we enjoyed them all and wished we could have attended the rest. However, Tom and I are hoping to be able to take a vacation (maybe Europe?) this coming summer to a destination of our choice, rather than that of a wedding. :)

Tom stills sings in the worship team at our church. He does an amazing job and I love to listen to him sing. In fact, right now I’m listening to him sing Before the Throne of God by Glad—wow. (Tom’s note: what she means is “Wow, he needs voice lessons”). We have also organized a small group for young married’s again this year. We’re going through the books Loving Your Husband and Loving your Wife by Cynthia and Jack Heald. And, if school wasn’t enough time with kids, we are also youth group leaders. I like the relaxed atmosphere here and the ability to connect with a smaller group of kids.

This past June we were told Tom’s grandpa Bouma had pancreatic cancer. However, through the trials God is good and His strength is sufficient. We’re encouraged to know that Grandpa Bouma no longer has to endure any pain or burdens. Since starting this letter, we were able to enjoy one last Christmas with him, in seemingly decent health. However, one week later he passed away and so we drove back up to Minnesota for the funeral. It was a hard week, and we continue to pray for Grandma Bouma as she will miss him most. (Tom’s note: he was, without a doubt, the humblest man I’ve ever met and he will be missed).

Tom has started school again! He is driving to Denver once a month to go to a Leadership Development Institute sponsored by the Christian Reformed Church. This means he has homework again. He enjoys the classes and speakers for the most part, although he says there are ways to improve on their teaching styles.

This past October Tom arranged a quick trip home for me to visit my first nephew, Daylen Scott. YEA! He was born September 19. What a cutie. Although Tom wasn’t able to come along I took lots of pictures to show him later.

Our busy schedules have kept us away from the mountains much more than we would like, however, visitors always help us make the trip to Rocky Mountain National Park. Tom’s dad and brother came at the beginning of August to help us start the process of finishing our basement. After all the work we had a few days to spend playing Frisbee golf and hiking in the beautiful Rockies. Part of my family came for Thanksgiving and we took time to slide across the frozen lakes in the mountains and mini golf in Fort Collins, between eating WAY too much turkey. You can find pictures of this and more at http://tommygunz.homeip.net/.

One more quick update: since starting this letter, my sister Jina got engaged to Daniel Tinklenberg! We are so excited for them and look forward to having Daniel as an “official” part of the family, since it feels like that already. :) Tom again arranged a quick trip home for me to visit in February to go dress shopping! Even though we were just there, I can’t wait!

To end, I’d like to share a conversation I had with my 8th grade Bible class. With society working hard at pulling Christ out of Christmas, we need to continue to focus on Him even more. However when the Christmas Season ends, our job isn’t done and our focus can’t be altered. Our desire to find Christ needs to continue far beyond the holiday season in order for our relationship with Him to grow and be strengthened. May God shower many blessings on you this coming year, just as He has done for us and may we all continue to center our attention on him first and foremost.

May God grant you another year of blessings, and may we praise Him for the past year of His faithfulness.

Amber & Tom

(Tom's note: two things I would like to share with you...I was reading Psalm 20:4 awhile back and noticed something...the wording of the passage caught my eye and so I believe the verse might have a two-fold meaning.
The verse says "May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed." Obviously, the world has a very different definition of success, but I noticed that the verse does NOT say "May he give you WHAT your heart desires."
I may be splitting hairs here, but I thought it was interesting that it seems to say "May God give you the desire of your heart, so that your heart wants what He wants." It DOESN'T necessarily seem say that He will give you the THING or RELATIONSHIP or SPOUSE or MATERIAL POSSESSION that your heart desires. It sounds more like He will align your heart's desire with His own...that He will give you the ACTUAL desire, not the OBJECT of the desire.
The great thing is, once your desires are aligned with God's, He also gives you the OBJECT your heart desires. That is the 2nd part of the two-fold meaning.
Up until that point, the things your heart desires may be very different from the things God wants you to desire.
Again, this is just my interpretation but it seems to resonate with what He says in other parts of the Bible. Feel free to disagree, reply, etc. etc.

The second thing I wanted to share with you is the verses that my aunt Lois read at her father's funeral (Grandpa Bouma), the verses that his life eminated--Philippians 2:3-4: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." What a different world this would be if all of us lived this out, agreed? Not only on the individual level, but corporately and politically as well.
I am a proud man, as most of you can testify to, but my grandfather's life, death, and eternal life are forcing me to stop, take a look, and think on the importance of humility. Who's stronger: the one who forgives or the one who wants revenge? Everyone wants revenge...that's the easy road. It's harder to forgive. By the same token, who is stronger: the person who protects his pride by lashing back, or the person who "turns the other cheek" because his confidence is rooted in something beside himself? Again, everyone wants to protect their pride...that's the easy road. It's harder to be humble. It's time for me to re-think which road I usually take.
May God bless you with confidence in Him, wisdom, and humility. --Tom)

November, 2005--Changing of seasons...for everything there is a time under heaven

Someone recently asked me if they’d been removed from my mass e-mailing list. I’m not sure if they were disappointed or glad, but in any case, I realized it was time to write again. :)
I actually write rather heavy-hearted, as my Grandpa Bouma is nearing the end of his life. It’s all happened rather quickly. He broke his ankle months ago and when he went in for tests, they discovered he had pancreatic cancer. He wouldn’t survive the surgery so the only option was to wait…he is now in a nursing home and the doctors and family don’t expect him to make it to Christmas.

So as we near Thanksgiving and remember everything that God has done to bless us, I thank God for my grandpa, for his quiet humility, for his faith, for the example he has been to his children, grandchildren, and friends. And I thank God for the eternal life that my grandpa will soon be enjoying with his Savior.

I ask for your prayers for my grandpa and his family, and my selfish prayer request is that he makes it to Christmas so that his whole family can see him one more time to say goodbye in person, though I am trying to accept that whatever happens, God is working for the good of those who love him.
In death, there is much to mourn and much to celebrate, and I guess I feel caught somewhere in between there, floating somewhere but not knowing where at any given time. Thank you for your prayers for my family.

I do want to share some joys with you as well. I am an uncle! Amber’s sister Jami and husband Scott Mulder had their first child, Daylen Scott! I can’t wait to see him! Scott was a childhood friend of mine, so I really enjoy sharing these moments with him as part of the family as well.
Also, Benji and Emily DeJong were just married October 22!
And just last weekend a friend of ours here in Colorado, Becky Scott, married Michael Griswold! By the weekend I should have pictures up on the website of the wedding and pics of Daylen as well.

Speaking of the website, here’s what it includes (in case you’d like to know before you go searching around and wasting precious minutes out of your day :).

Favorite Links (http://tommygunz.homeip.net/favoritelinks.htm) include:
1) Birthdays and anniversaries – find out whose are coming up soon to send a card or an email!
2) Charities – support some worthy causes.
3) Security – plenty of information and programs to download to keep your personal information secure on your computer and on your person. Includes travel tips for safety and security. I hope you visit the security site, as identity theft is usually a matter of “when,” not “if.” Just recently someone got ahold of my credit card number and the customer ID # on the back of the card and used it to charge $11,000! And I like to think that I do my share to keep my information secure. But because I knew what to do and what my rights were, I got my money back in a couple days, along with a new card. Please read the articles to learn how to protect yourself and what to do in the event that your information is stolen. If a thief wants to get it, he probably can, but if you make it harder to get it, that may be deterrent enough.
4) Useful Links – helpful sites for doing day-to-day activities.
5) Favorite Artists – official web sites for lots of great musicians.
6) Shopping – Some of the best sites to find the cheapest buys online.
7) Travel – Some of the best sites to find the cheapest travel online. FYI: Southwest Airlines is coming to Denver January 3rd! Expect lower fares! We expect more visitors. :)

Photogalleries (http://tommygunz.homeip.net/gallery/) include:
1) Weddings – Karl & Erin (Gerlach) Wolfswinkel, John & Angie (Nibbelink) Shaler, David & Kristin (Vanden Bosch) Contant, Jeremy & Brittany (Boughey) Hoogland, Trent & Sherry (DeJong) Johnson, Michael & Becky (Scott) Griswold – coming soon.
2) People – Family, Friends, Visitors, Tinman, and Fellowship Church Youth Group.
3) Places – Aspen, Turkey, Rocky Mtn Nat’l Park, Colorado Springs, and Grand Teton & Yellowstone Nat’l Parks.

Thanks for listening (reading). If you would like to be removed from this mailing list, please let me know. Don’t worry, I won’t take offense. :)

August, 2005--New website...find pictures of you!

Hello kids,
I am still working...it doesn't really matter where. Enough about me. Let's get to some more important things.
My wife just began her 4th year at Dayspring Christian Schools, and she still really enjoys it. I love being married to her! She's so creative and energetic and keeps life interesting! More importantly, she keeps me in my place. And most importantly, she helps me draw closer to God. okay, i'm done bragging...sometimes I just can't help it. I'm sure those of you who are married can probably say the same thing about your spouse. Here's to the God who creates us with a need for human interaction and then fills that need with a spouse or family, friends, etc.

Anyway, we have a ton of congrats to hand out:
Karl & Erin (Gerlach) Wolfswinkel, who were married June 25 in Fort Collins, CO--we have pics on our website!
Dave & Kristin (Vanden Bosch) Contant, who were (finally) married :) July 2 in Rock Valley, IA--we have pics on our website!
John & Angie (Nibbelink) Shaler, who were married June 30 in Greeley, CO--we have pics on our website!
Jeff & Bethany (Maxwell) Wiley, who were married July 2 in Estes Park, CO!
Eric & Amy (Buys) Haan, who were married June 18 in Luverne, MN!
Tony & Kate (Van Drunen) Rietema, who were married June 18 in Holland, MI!
Jeremy & Brittany (Boughey) Hoogland, who were married July 30 in Sioux Center, IA--we have pics on our website!

We wish we could've made it to all of them, and may God bless you as you share your lives in Him!
we also look forward to the weddings of my sister, Sherry, and Trent Johnson on Sept. 10, Benji DeJong and Emily Hibbert on October 5, and Becky Scott and Mike Griswold on November 5.

Also, congrats to a bunch of people who are putting the pressure on the rest of us who don't have children yet:
Brent & Lori DeJong on the birth of Anna in July!
Chris & Rachel Wassenaar on the birth of Hannah in April!
Rob & Erin Vande Lune on the birth of Gracie in May!
Scott & Amanda Van Andel on the birth of Devon in March!
Wade & Leanne Halma on the birth of Ashton in January!
Also, expecting congratulations to expecting parents Ben & Renae Bieri, Scott & Jami Mulder, and Deric & Amber Moen!

In June, we made a long trip for a short weekend to Minnesota for the Van Otterloo (Bouma) family reunion. It was great to see so many people again, despite not having much time to catch up!

One major prayer request of mine is for my grandpa Bouma, who broke his ankle. After doing so he started turning yellow and subsequent tests showed he most likely has pancreatic cancer. x-rays show the tumor is quite large. pancreatic cancer is very hard to battle, since the pancreas cannot be removed. please pray for him and for my grandma as she takes care of him. pray that God's will may be done and that if it be His will, my grandpa may be healed. The important thing is that he loves God, so whatever happens, God will take good care of him.

The new website has photo galleries for families and friends...I even have one of Ben and Renae (and little Bieri) with Jack Johnson. :) The website has been completely overhauled and is much easier to navigate. Let me know what you think. Let me know if you want me to send you higher quality images via email of any of the pictures on the site...most of the pics are 800x600 resolution, but i also have them (the newer ones, anyway) in 2200x1700 or something ridiculous like that.

Also, God's blessings to all the teachers who are starting the school year again, and to those of you who are students as well. Have a great year!

I will be going back to school of sorts, I think...I believe I'll be heading to the Denver Leadership Development Institute this fall...it's a 10 month year, one saturday a month, 5 or 6 hour courses. It's operated by the Christian Reformed Church, and is for anyone feels like God is calling them to be used somewhere, in a leadership role of grand or small proportions, in ministry of some kind. Yes, that's broad, but that's the point. how often do we know where we're going to be 10 years from now, 5 years, 1 year even? i feel the need to keep my options open, to be open to opportunities that may come, and to be prepared for them...that's what the institute is about. some people go there to start on the road to seminary, some just to learn more about God. it should be a good time.

one other tidbit: we started finishing our basement, and man, that's going to take awhile, but it's fun, and we enjoy enticing my dad to come out here to beautiful colorado to do some of the work, and he loves being sucked into doing it. :) speaking of which, can we entice anyone else to come out here to visit? if you're curious, visit the visitor and rocky mtn nat'l park photo galleries to see what fun you can have out here!

okay, i haven't written in awhile, and so my endurance is low. i'm winded, and you probably are as well, if you've read this far, so i'm gonna go.
take care, God bless, and drop a note letting us know how you're doing! even if it's a lousy, impersonal mass email such as this one, i enjoy reading them!

May, 2005--Heating up

Hey,
The weather is heating up here in Colorado. I hope to be on the golf course tomorrow, though I haven't told my boss yet. If you haven't experienced them, Colorado summers are great because of NO HUMIDITY!
Anyway, things are going well...God has really blessed us...even in the trials. Amber's wrapping up the school year and excited for free time in the summer...I'm trying to convince her that she should look into a part time job or so for the summer...she tells me she has a job already. I feel I'm losing this one. :) My job is going alright, though hard to stay motivated sometimes. People ask what I'm passionate about, and I respond with music and law (a weird mix, i know). Though for those two fields, you need lots of talent to get into them (unless you're a country singer...that's right, i said it). :) A bunch have people have told me I should go into Christian ministry of some type, including some non-Christians. Anyone else want to weigh in? I'm honestly quite open to suggestions right now.

We just finished our 30 Hour Famine last weekend. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. In fact, very few of us kids or adults had any major effects besides a few headaches, fatigue, weakness, and growling stomachs. We did have juice to keep our blood sugar levels somewhat normal.
It was a great experience, and we learned a lot. The point wasn't to fast from food...that was just the means to an end...the point was that when hunger struck, to instead discipline our minds and hearts to focus on God when thoughts of food could easily dominate--so that in giving up something we could gain something that we needed more.
We also wanted to really try to gain perspective on what children and adults go through 24/7, 365 days a year. To them, any meal is a feast and cause for celebration and praise of God's name.
In reality, they are rich and we are poor b/c they know they truly need God...I tend to think I only need him when I'm in a bind.

I think that's what Jesus meant in his sermon on the mount in Matthew 5: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." I don't think Jesus is suggesting that we should be depressed and down-hearted...I think he's suggesting that those who are in 'poorer' circumstances truly understand that they need God, and therefore they shall inherit the kingdom of heaven.

Anyway, we've been blessed by a number of events that have recently happened that bring cause for joy and praise:
* God has blessed Chris and Rachel Wassenaar with a baby girl, Hannah...Wass is a proud dad. :) Please join me in congratulation them!
* My parents and little bro came to visit and move my older sister Shelly out here to Greeley! We're pumped to have her here! Our prayer is God will bless her wherever she may be, but we're glad it's Greeley!
* Karen Vreeman came to visit as part of her two-week externship in Littleton for Vet school. We enjoyed hanging out and hopefully will get to again this weekend. Anyone else want to pay a visit? I promise we won't starve you. :) As always, you're all invited to stop in (or stay) whenever.

And the summer seems to be filling up, especially with weddings, but we love it. We hope to have Scott and Jami Mulder (Amber's sister) here in June, Lord willing. They, too, are expecting a child in September! Hopefully Jami can time it right for my sister's wedding in Iowa. :)

We also hope to have another deck party this summer, and of course you're all invited, no matter how far away you live, as long as you're under the age of 35 (young adults only). :) We'll keep you posted.

If any of you have tried to get on our website (and I know you're all clammering to get there), it's been down for a bit. My brother, who hosts the site, laid his computer's motherboard to rest about a week or two ago. I'm not sure when it will be up again, but hopefully soon. The address is http://tommygunz.homeip.net, in case you were wondering.

That's long enough...very little cheesiness this time. Maybe I'm just not feeling up to it. :)
Take care and God bless. We love and miss you all.

March, 2005--Easter morning...celebrate, but leave the balloons behind

Greetings on an Easter Sunday morning as we celebrate the resurrection of Christ and what that means to all of us…the chance to live, truly live, both in this life and the one to come…though “chance” has very little to do with it.

My family is up in Hancock, MN, celebrating with my grandparents and relatives…I wish I could be there with them…so many memories in that little town.

Anyway, Amber and I spent all Saturday morning decorating the church again this year. It’s a good time…and involves me hanging from rafters and ladders to adorn the rafters with fabric. We’ll have pictures on our website…it’s actually quite beautiful…though the ‘beauty’ part comes from my wife telling me what to do and where to put the fabric.

Speaking of which, our website is up and has been completely modified! You should check it out…there are more links, including tips for first time homebuyers, free downloads, etc. The link is http://tommygunz.homeip.net. Feel free to email me advice on how to change things. Other additions are new photo galleries, such as our church’s youth group, new visitor pics, new Rocky Mtn Nat’l Park pics, and we included pictures of friends who we hang out with here in Colorado, though we don’t have all of those yet. I update it all the time now, so check back frequently.

Oh, and if you’re a Dordt grad or you know about Dordt College, you gotta go to my web page to download “The Old Mink Farm” mp3. It’s hilarious…written by Ben Kornelis (‘Cornelius Bensema’), choir director. I’ll have lyrics up soon.

As for March birthdays and anniversaries, I missed the boat, obviously, but you can find birthdays and anniversaries all year long now at my website. Here’s the direct link: http://tommygunz.homeip.net/birthdays.htm. If you know of any that I’m missing, and I’m sure that there are several, please let me know!

You’ll also notice on my website that we have information about World Vision’s 30 Hour Famine…if you’d like to support us in this endeavor, please scroll down for our support letter. We’re trying to save the lives of a few children out of the 29,000 that die every DAY!

So I was thinking about life, and, as tends to happen, I was concentrating on mine. And therein lies the point: it’s about me. My life is about me. I wish I could say that my life was about something else--something more interesting and worthy and purposeful--but most often it’s about me. Since we’re celebrating today, I thought I’d speak metaphorically about balloons. My life is like a balloon--I fill it with hot air (no laughing). As you would a balloon, I fill up my ego, my self obsession, and try--with my own arrogant praises and the praises from others--to keep it floating on its own.

Have you ever had a party with balloons and then months later you find one of those balloons behind a piece of furniture? And what does that balloon look like after a while? If it’s not completely deflated, it has lost quite a bit of air. That’s what happens to me over time…God tries to keep me humble through life events. But what do I do, I try to restore that balloon, to fill it with air again. And why? A life who’s purpose is to gain accolades or accomplishments cannot be sustained. Like the balloon, it will slowly fade.

Sometimes it happens more quickly. Sometimes my life needs a pin prick. What happens when a pin pricks a balloon full of air? Ka-boom. I wonder if my life needs one now. Does yours? Lately I’ve been praying a dangerous prayer: that whatever I need to draw closer to God, that it might come to pass. It’s easy to say, but sometimes hard to accept what might happen. As Switchfoot sings, ”This is your life. Are you who you want to be?” Are you a balloon, or are you living for something more…for the risen Savior. If a close friend of yours saved your life by willingly giving up his, would you not live in such a way to remember him each and every day? Well, that’s been done…and more! How much more should we commemorate a close friend who willingly allowed himself to be tortured, not so that we could live a few more years, but that we could live forever with that friend in a place more incredible than we can imagine?!
Forget the balloon—it will fade or explode eventually…live for something that lasts. This has been my battle lately, I pray you fight yours well.

I hadn’t used a soapbox in awhile, but I’m done now.

Here is the information regarding the 30 Hour Famine:

I wanted to let you know about a project Amber & I are participating in to save the lives of children around the world. By 10:00 A.M. on Saturday, after I finished eating my cereal, 12,083 kids died of hunger. By the end of the day, 29,000 died. The city of Greeley has a population of about 90,000 people, so at that rate, the city would be gone in 3 days.

Every breath that is taken, a child dies…about 1 every 3 seconds! Yes, the tsunamis were horrible, but it’s more shocking to think that in 8 days, more children die of hunger than all the children and adults who died in the tsunamis combined. And yet every day these children quietly pass away, with little or no attention from the rest of the world.

We wanted to tell you about an opportunity that we have to fight against starvation. Every year, World Vision asks youth groups around the world to participate in their 30 Hour Famine on April 29-30. The idea is simple…we’re going to starve ourselves for 30 hours so that children in third-world countries can eat. Since Amber and I are youth leaders, we’ll be fasting as well.

World Vision’s been around for over 50 years, so they know what they’re doing. They don’t just throw money at a problem and walk away. Instead, they actually live and work with people in third-world countries—teaching them to be self-sufficient through proper farming and irrigation, and techniques, among other things. “Give a man a fish, and he will eat for a day. But teach a man to fish, and he will eat for a lifetime.” You can find more about World Vision’s 30 Hour Famine at their website: http://www.30hourfamine.org.

In order to help these kids, we must find people to sponsor our 30 hour fast. 21% of the world lives on less than $1 a day. That $1 can feed and clothe a child for a day. I was wondering if you would be willing to sponsor us by donating $1 for each hour that we fast ($30 total). That will save a child’s life for a whole month! Also, if you are considering giving, please check with your employer, as they might have an employer matching program for donations to charities. Some employers will match their employees’ donations dollar for dollar! The donations are tax-deductible, so if you’d like a receipt, please let me know.

We want you to know that there is no pressure to give financially, nor is there pressure to give exactly $30--any amount, greater or smaller, would be very much appreciated. However, we do ask that you support us in prayer as we experience only 30 hours of what other children (and adults) go through all their life. We hope to learn much from this experience, and gain a new perspective and appreciation for the kingdom of God worldwide. Often I live as if it exists only in America, but that is so far from the truth. We know that we can’t save the world, but we don’t want to ignore the problem, either. So please pray with us as our youth group tries to save the lives of a handful of children.

If you would like to give, please send a check, made out to World Vision, to us as soon as you can, as we don’t have much time to raise money. Our address is below. Thanks so much for your support!

February, 2005--3.25 months...I bet that was a nice break

Wow,

I just had this whole thing typed out and then the page refreshed itself automatically and I lost everything. That's pretty irritating. Anyway, I hope my computer knows I didn't mean all those things I said about it.

I haven't written in over 3 months, so I thought I should at least send out the birthdays for February, since I missed December and January...sorry guys. The great news that you've all been waiting for, I'm sure, is that you will be able to find those birthdays and anniversaries now year round on our website: http://tommygunz.homeip.net. And please let me know if I'm missing some!

Have you considered coming out to visit us??? Because you should! Whether it be for a snowmobiling trip, a ski trip during the prime ski season in March, or for a summer vacation, Colorado is fantastic year round and so are the people!

Amber and I are still doing well in Greeley, and this city is growing daily. It's a good thing the mountains are right there to escape to, though we go less than we'd like. We go most often when people come to visit us, or pass through, so PLEASE, PLEASE come visit us soon! I'm actually begging. :) and as always, you can stay at our place for free! Or at least let us know if you're going to be in the area, as we'd love to catch up.

I'm still working at Countrywide Home Loans, and for all of you newlyweds or semi newlyweds who are thinking about purchasing a home, I will soon have up a link on our website that should answer many of your questions about the process and how to go about it. Amber's still loving her 3rd year of teaching out here, and is looking forward to coaching middle school track again soon.

Church is going well, even though I'm done leading the book study on The Sacred Marriage by Gary Thomas...something I felt quite under-qualified to do, considering I've been married for 1.5 years. I feel there is so much more to learn yet, and I'm sure my wife can vouch that I have much to learn as well.

Our youth group is participating in World Vision's 30 Hour Famine this year, an event that youth groups around the US participate in. I'd encourage you to check out their website, as a youth group near you could be asking for your support. Here it is: http://www.30hourfamine.org/Portal.asp. The concept is that the youth group will ask for sponsorship for their 30 hour fast, and the money goes to feed kids who have nothing to eat. Here's a horrifying fact: 29,000 children die every day from hunger, that's 20 every minute, and about 1 every 3 seconds. If it takes you five minutes to read this email, that's 100 kids--gone. That's the city of Greeley gone in 3 days.

World Vision has been around for more than 50 years, so they know better than just to throw money at the problem. They believe in training people in 3rd world countries to sustain themselves through proper soil erosion, irrigation, and farming techniques, among other trades. "Give a man a fish, and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he will eat for life." These kids can be fed and taken care of for $1/day. Can we handle 2 mocha latte's every 3 days instead of one per day? I think so...that $3 latte will feed a child for 3 days...amazing! So anyway, if you'd like to support us through prayer, encouragement, or even financially, please let me know, as even I, along with the other youth leaders, am going to be fasting (though not to lose weight ).

Switching gears completely...check out this hilarious website: http://www.funpic.hu/swf/numanuma.html. Though I don't condone one of the pics in the video, the rest is awesome! I guess it's a Rumanian pop song. I'm not sure why the pics are in the video, but the guy on the webcam is fun to watch. And check out the attachment I sent along as well. I sent this audio clip (O holy night) to my brother and he sent it to his choir director as an "audition." Priceless.

On to the announcements...

So many people have gotten engaged recently that I felt compelled to wish them a wonderful engagement and happy wedding planning. Congratulations to MY SISTER SHERRY! and Trent Johnson, who will wed in September, Brad VanDerZwaag and Cinda Kroeze (April), Tony Rietema and Kate Van Drunen (June 18), Karl Wolfswinkel and Erin (June 25), John Shaler and Angie Nibbelink (June 30), Dave Contant and Kristin Vanden Bosch (July 2), Jeff Wiley and Bethany Maxwell (July 2), Preston Kroeze and Jessie Koopmans (TBD), Emily Williams and Cole (TBD), Neil Coleman and Alicia (TBD), and Jeremy Hoogland and Brittany (TBD). That's a lot of weddings. God bless as you prepare for this huge and wonderful step in life!

Also, congratulations to Jeff and Kelly Cook, Wade and Leanne Halma, and Jason and Leslie Gordon, all of whom had their first addition to their family recently. It's incredible how tiny those infants are...what a blessing from God!

And of course, a Happy Birthday to Matt Wolthuizen (also known as "Choogie" or "Machugen Woltenhuizenguizen"--Feb 4), Jessica Spence (Feb 16), Rochelle Statema (Feb 17), Danielle Vander Linden (Feb 21), and Rob Vande Lune (who technically doesn't have a birthday this year, but will turn "7" on Feb 29, 2008 ).

That's it...I'm done. Let me know if you want off this email list and it will be done.

November, 2004--Overdue soap-boxin' and grand-standin'

I'm a horrible person. This is what I'm learning in the marriage book study I'm "leading" in my church. The book is "Sacred Marriage" by Gary Thomas. It's NOT a marriage self-help book, or a 'seven steps to better communication' book. It's all about what marriage is supposed to be about: the relationship in and of itself is not the end goal...as in all other areas of life, marriage is about drawing closer to God. Having a great marriage is a noble task, but it's a nobel second priority, not the first priority. As the saying goes: "The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing." We've all gotten our priorities screwed up in life. At times we've put work ahead of family, and we've seen how our whole life suffers from it, including our work, the thing we were trying to perfect. That's the irony of priorities. Keep first things first, and the rest will fall into place. Put second things in first place, and nothing will fall into place. Weird, but true.

What I mean by "I'm a horrible person" is that marriage exposes my weaknesses and faults with a brighter light than if I were single. The closeness of the relationship is a full-length mirror, complete with "vanity" lights that make sure imperfections are noticed, faults are glaring. Ironic that these "vanity" lights bring about humility. :) In any case, the humility is something I need, and so I am trying to train myself to welcome the lights, embrace the closeness of the marriage, in order that I may truly recognize my need for my God and draw nearer to Him. In turn, my marriage grows stronger as well.

One thing we've talked about in the book study is "advice." That dreaded word which conjures up images of psychiatrists, psychologists, parents, and pastors. However, many in the psychological world are actually very hesitant to give advice. Part of that is due to changes in patient therapy theories, but I think part of it comes from our society's disdain for "advice." We don't like being told what to do. We're a very individualistic society, where freedom of speech is worshipped and opinions are to be heard but not challenged.

What happened to advice? I've been afraid, and I know others have too, to even give advice to friends (I know others have because no one's told me to stop sending these mass emails :). Sometimes, yes, good people give bad advice. But overall, why wouldn't we at least listen to those around us who have wisdom to offer--friends and family who usually have our best interest at heart. That doesn't mean we have to take the advice, but listening to more than just our own perspective can only improve our chances of making a good decision. Proverbs 12 says a wise man listens to advice. Proverbs 13 says wisdom is found in those who take advice. Proverbs 19 instructs us to listen to advice and accept instruction. Proverbs 20 tells us to make plans by seeking advice. And the list goes on...many from the "wisest" man on earth: Solomon.

I wanted to talk about this because 1) I think everyone (especially those like myself who think they have all the answers) should be asking for advice more often, and 2) I think many of us have wisdom that God has given us to offer to our friends and family and coworkers and we should be using it...but obviously using it in an honorable way (speaking the truth in love). Asking for advice also has a unique way of keeping us humble, especially in our marriages. In fact, you can find the advice-humility correlation in the Bible as well.

Anyway, off the soapbox and onto the grand stand to announce the latest news: Apparently, it's baby season! Congrats to Harlan and Maria Muilenburg on the birth of Logan Dean, Jim and Ang Dekkers on the birth of Cassady Lou, and Paul and Theresa Dominic on the birth of Ashley Maria.
If there are others I'm missing, I apologize.
Also congrats to the following expecting parents: Rob and Erin Vande Lune, Chris and Rachel Wassenaar, Wade and Leanne Halma, Jason and Leslie Gordon, Jeff and Kelly Cook, and Scott and Amanda Van Andel. And in the spirit of these announcements, I'd like to announce that Amber and I are expecting....we are expecting to have a great time back in Iowa for Thanksgiving and Christmas. So if you're going to be around, let us know because we'd love to meet up. Oh, and just for clarification, we probably won't have kids for a couple more years. Before that happens I need to learn how to give up being the center of attention, so this could take awhile. :)

And I know this is late, as usual, but a big happy birthday to Harold Dykhuizen (Nov 3), Schuyler Noteboom (Nov 5--also congrats on the engagement!!!), Sarah DeVries (Nov 6), my aunt Marla Koning (Nov 7), Scott DeJong (Nov 11), Jim and Jon Dekkers (Nov 12), my aunt Bonnie Stabnow (Nov 14), my aunt Kathy DeJong (Nov 14), Brent DeJong (Nov 17), my brother in law Andy Hoogland (Nov 18), my mother in law Verla Hoogland (Nov 18), Daniel Diekmann (Nov 19), Leslie Gordon (Nov 19), Amber's grandma Jennie Pluim (Nov 22), Amy Long (Nov 23), and Amber's grandma Clara Hoogland (Nov 23). Congrats on another year of life and may God richly bless you in the year to come.
Also a happy anniversary to Cody and Rochelle (Top) Statema (Nov 22) and Mike and Carissa (Neerhof) Hoium (Nov 23). Woohoo! One great year passed, and many more ahead! May God continue to bless you guys as well.
Other congrats go out to Charlie Markle and his soon to be bride Jena who will wed today, the 20th of November! My little Chuck is all grown up. And a congrats to Jeff Cook on completion of his Master's degree in Philosophy. Better you than me, buddy, that's all I can say. :) Also congrats to Karl Wolfswinkel and his new fiance Erin!

On a more serious note, please remember my uncle Will DeJong who was diagnosed with acute leukemia, and has lately gotten worse, with a white cell count of next to nothing.

If you guys haven't checked out the website yet, please do. I've updated it with pictures from weddings this summer, fall activities, the new deck, and a special page just for visitors to colorado, etc. If you tried lately and couldn't get on, that problem is fixed. Again, the page is http://tommygunz.homeip.net or http://tomdejong.homeip.net. Either will work.

Amber's still busy with her best year of teaching so far, so that's a huge blessing. And I'm happy to be working for Countrywide Home Loans and keeping quite busy with that. Funny thing, Josh Ribbens also works for Countrywide down in Denver, but I didn't know that until I saw his name come across on a fax at my office. He does the easier loans, and I do the harder ones, generally, but either of us could help you out with financial questions, not just homebuying questions. We find that a lot of people need extra cash for the holidays, braces or college tuition for the kids, new cars, paying off high interest credit cards or other loans, or whatever the need may be, and can borrow it at a much lower interest rate by using their home's equity as opposed to a personal or other secured loan from a bank. So yeah, if you have a financial need along those lines, or are looking at purchasing a new house, choosing the #1 lender in the nation (Countrywide) definitely has its advantages, so give me a ring.

Well, enough of the sales pitch. Before I go I need to brag about my wife for a bit. For my birthday she spoiled me rotten. My birthday was on a Sunday. Friday night when I came home from work she had a picnic layed out on our living room floor. It was fantastic, with all my favorites. I thought that was it, and I was happy with that, but I was wrong. Saturday morning I woke up with a note telling me to sleep in and to pick from a list of items I wanted for breakfast. I'm thinking, "Now this is living." So she made me breakfast and then took me shopping to Fort Collins for a new suit and for Christmas gifts. All throughout the day she gave me notes explaining what we were going to do next, including taking me out to eat and to a movie. After the movie, she gave me a note saying she had reserved a hot tub for us. Again, I'm thinking, "Now this is living--my birthday, a hot tub, and my wife in a swimsuit. Woohoo!" So I raced home from Fort Collins and when we got in the house, 12-15 people were there for a surprise party! So the hot tub was off, but the surprise was great! It turns out she made a complete meal for everyone on Friday while I was at work, and hid the smell by running the potpourri pot all day and brought the food to Angie's until Saturday night. As my pastor tells me, I married way up.

Well, I'm going to call it a night. This email has gone on way too long. I apologize to those who have emailed and I haven't responded yet. I will soon. The new job switch has been busier than I anticipated, but still no excuse.

Have a great Thanksgiving, and do remember to give thanks to the One who brings blessings into our lives, including friends and family like you.
Tom

September, 2004--The fall is here

I plead with you, really, you must come visit Colorado. even if it's not to stay with us. CO is simply beautiful this time of year...the fall, which has become my favorite time of year here. the weather is still warm right now...even hit 90 a couple weeks ago. but now it will be 60's and 70's--perfect hiking and camping weather. and the leaves are starting to turn. Usually the third week in September is the best time for color, but this year will be a few weeks later due to the amount of rain we had this summer, which is nice. So plan your vacation now! :) If any of you are actually interested, we'd love to have you stay with us.

I have so much that i'd like to share with you on things that i'm learning, but i'll save you from that for another time. I wanted to also give you a quick update. Amber is in the full swing of school and loving that right now. She just finished parent/teacher conferences, so that's a nice feeling to be done with those, as i'm sure you teachers can relate (and some of you parents, too :)). I quit my job with Wells Fargo Home Mortgage and moved to their biggest competitor, Countrywide Home Loans. It's pretty much the same stuff but with a different company and a little more security since they give a base pay instead of being on commission only. So, if any of you have house questions or whatever, i'd still be happy to help you out in any way that i can, up to and including giving you a good deal on a loan. :) but enuf of that.

More importantly, I'd like to wish a happy birthday to my grandma Julia Bouma (Sept 3), Krista (Koning) Krygsman (Sept 4), Tanya (Top) Talsma (Sept 8), Amanda (Bible) Williams (Sept 13), Kelly Crull (Sept 16), my grandpa Ray Bouma (Sept 16), Lori DeJong (Sept 17), Rob Kimmons (Sept 18), my papa Irwin DeJong (Sept 27), David Contant (Sept 29), Lindsay Feikema (Oct 8), Jana Krygsman (Oct 9), Lisa Bauman (Oct 10), Stacy Patterson (Oct 11), Erica (Ton) Van Niewenhuyzen (Oct 14), Nick Van Veldhuizen (Oct 26), my sister Sherry DeJong (Oct 29), and Kara (Koning) Miller (Oct 30). If you know any of these people, please say a prayer for them, that God may bless their coming year and thanking Him for another year of life.

I'd also like to say a congratulations to Jason Kuiper and Abigail Marcum who were united in marriage on September 5 in Branson, MO. Sorry i couldn't make it, guys. I would've loved to be there. My cousin Gena Koning also married Todd Bloomendaal September 4, and I wish I could've made it to that one as well.

Other than that, check out our website at http://tommygunz.homeip.net. Very soon it will have pictures from weddings this summer, such as Darren and Rachel DeGroot, Jamie and Cara Iedema, and Dan and Sarah DeVries. There will also be pictures from our deck party in July, and from friends who visit, both local and from afar. If you have pics you'd posted on the site, please let me know.

We also went to Southern California Sept 23-27 for the National Youth Workers Convention. Amber and I are youth volunteers at our church. It was great, the speakers, the worship music, the concerts, the seminars, the weather, the beach, everything. We even got to see several friends, including Rob and Erin Vande Lune, Joel Weaver, Ben Visser, Phil Vande Griend, Kelly Wildman, Jennifer Eastman, and Jennifer Murphy. It was fantastic seeing all of you! more info on the convention at http://www.youthspecialties.com.

That's it. Thanks for reading this far. Take care, everyone, and if you know of people's birthdays or anniversaries that i'm missing, please let me know asap.
thanks and God bless,
tom

August, 2004--Fall is coming...can you feel it?

Mi amigos y familia,
I really don't know spanish, except for a few words i picked up at the Weld County Jail that i should "un-learn" and a few phrases that most people know, such as "Donde el bano?" Anyway, lately Amber and I have been quite busy. She just started school again and for the most part she enjoys being back in the swing of things again, not that she was complaining about her summer vacation. :) a few weeks ago she took a little trip to Iowa to see Dan DeVries and Sarah Pontier wed...so a big congrats to them!

Last weekend we had the pleasure of hosting Andy and Sharla Van Roekel. We went tubing in the mountains down a river which was quite fun, actually, except for the fact that my tube was too small and therefore the sharp rocks had fun making their marks on my lower back...that and not feeling my hands from the freezing water...but like i said, it was fun. :)

At the end of July Pete Eekhoff and his band, Jonah33 showed up in Greeley and we helped host the guys during their short stay. the show they put on was great, and i highly recommend catching one if you can. you kind find their info and tour dates at their website: http://www.jonah33.com.
They are also listed on my website: http://tommygunz.homeip.net. I hope to have that updated soon with pictures from various weddings such as darren and rachel de groot, jamie and cara iedema, and dan and sarah de vries. please check out the website and give me some feedback to make it better.

we also hosted a deck initiation party to make good use of the new deck my dad, brother, and i built at the beginning of july. we had a great time doing it and we love it. everyone should come to use it...and i mean everyone. :) anyway, we had about 30 people over from denver, ft collins, and greeley. at the same time we hosted jessie koopmans and preston kroeze, who were out here for vacation from the flatlands of iowa. Before that Amber's sister Jami and her husband Scott Mulder were out here as well...lots of people and we love it!

in addition, we've kept busy with church life, as i still attempt to help lead worship almost every sunday morning. i even sang my first real solo..."Everything" by Lifehouse...it's the last song on their No Name Face cd and i highly recommend listening to Jason Wade, the lead singer, sing it instead of me. At the beginning of September Amber and I are planning to lead a small group for our morning church for young adults based on the book "Sacred Marriage" by Gary Thomas. A great read, he describes his book not as a seven-steps to marital success book, but rather as a tool to learn how to glorify God through the medium of relationships, most significantly marriage. Since marriage's purpose is not primarily about the relationship in and of itself, but rather about drawing closer to God and honoring him by mimicking the relationships of the Triune God and the church, I think this book is going to be right on track and very helpful to many...here's hoping.

My job has been kinda slow, but that's to be expected as mortgage rates continue to rise. i may be taking on a little bit different position as well that gives a base income instead of being dependent on 100% commission. However, i can still do loans for anyone in the country, so if you're thinking about buying a house, please don't hesitate to call me for a great deal and answers to your questions. For a quick determination if buying is better than renting, see the calculation formula at the end of this email.

Anyway, i know that i'm horribly late on august birthdays and anniversaries, and, to be honest, i don't have a good excuse...i do have excuses, just not any good ones. :) So, without further adou (i have no idea how to spell that...it's a wild guess) or delay, please say hello to...wait a second--this isn't an award show. instead, please wish a happy birthday to the following people:
Cara Iedema (Aug 5), Paul DeJong (Aug 6), Kevin Wiersma (Aug 9), Karen Bartz (Aug 9), Amanda Williams (Aug 11), Emily Williams (Aug 12), Teresa Dekkers (Aug 13), Joel Weaver (Aug 20), and Afi Qazi (Aug 20). God's blessings on another year and may you continue to bless others as you have done.
It's also that time of year when weddings abound, and as such, I'd like to wish (and you should to) a happy anniversary to the following:
Luke and Tracy Shannon (Aug 2), Dan and Latricia Ten Napel (Aug 9), Brian and Krista Krygsman (Aug 9), Aaron and Jenn Imig (Aug 16), and Ben and Renee Bieri (Aug 17). God's blessings to you as well and may you continue to grow closer to him and each other.

I know i'm missing a ton of you...and please let me hear about it, as Jana Koning did so graciously about her wedding anniversary in July...much love and my humble apologies, Jana. :)

Well, that's about it. Most of you can stop reading here if you haven't done so already. Below is some information about calculating buying a house vs. renting. Have a great August. Sorry this is so long.
God bless,
Tom

Buying vs Renting

My example:
Rent payment x 12 months = $ thrown away on rent
600 x 12 = 7200

Loan amount x interest rate = interest for 12 months on a home purchase
130,000 x 4.5% = 5850

Interest for 12 months x tax rate = potential savings on tax return
5850 x 17% = 944

Value of house x appreciation rate = increase in equity
130,000 x 2% = 2600

Value of house x tax/insurance rate = taxes/insurance per year on your home
130000 x 1.1% = 1430

$ thrown away on rent - interest for 12 months + potential savings on taxes + increase in equity - taxes/insurance per year on your home = potential savings of buying over renting per year
7200 - 5850 + 944 + 2600 - 1430 = $3,514 in potential savings of buying over renting per year!

At this amount, how can you afford NOT to buy a house? :)

Notes:
1. I don't know what tax bracket you are in so that may make a difference...it could be 9%, it could be 28%. The point is that interest paid on a mortgage is tax deductible...saving you money come April 15.
2. I don't know what interest rate you qualify for. Today's rate on a 1 yr ARM with FHA is 4.5%.
3. I don't know how fast homes appreciate in your area. Typically homes appreciate 2-3% per year, but that can be higher or lower depending on your area of the country, your city, and even your neighborhood.
4. I don't know how much taxes and home owner's insurance is in your area. I just used an estimate from Greeley, CO.
5. If you have questions about the formula or the calculations, please do not hesitate to call me.
6. The amount you save or renting will gradually increase as interest will go down each month, due to amortization.
7. Disclaimers: Interest and appreciation rates not guaranteed and subject to change without notice. Borrower must qualify for interest rates and product and programs. Please see your mortgage consultant for details. Closing costs and other costs associated with obtaining a home not included. Figures are estimates and vary depending on situational factors. Due to amortization, interest paid on a mortgage gradually decreases and principal gradually increases each month.

July, 2004--A Better July

July...so busy...so...run-around-with-your-head-cut-off. I feel like I need to come up to the surface to breathe. Anyway, I just wanted to say that I'm officially up and running in the big red machine known as Wells Fargo Home Mortgage and would be happy to help any of you who are thinking about either buying a house or refinancing to get a lower rate, consolidate debt, or take cash out to buy a car or some other big purchase. I do loans all over the United States, in case you were wondering. I've been in the mortgage business for awhile so even if you just have questions, concerns, or curiosities...it's all free and i'd be happy to help and give good deals to family and friends. My work contact info is at the end of the email. even if you just want to run numbers to find out how much you qualify for, feel free to give me a call.

But more importantly, we have lots of birthdays and anniversaries in july. A big happy birthday goes out to my little bro Nathaniel (July 5), Amanda Van Andel (July 7), my cousin Derek Strei (July 13), Rochelle Dodge (July 14), Jay Smith (July 20), Kate Van Drunen (July 20), Tim Hall (July 23), my aunt Helen Wiersma (July 25), Jim "Hodja" Romaine (July 26), my mom Judy (July 29), and my uncle Cal DeJong (July 30). Make sure you wish these people a happy birthday if you know them, and may God grant them another year filled with blessings.
Also, a happy anniversary goes to Brett and Jessica Swiger (July 4), Matt and Jenn Henry (July 4), Ben and Jo Addink (July 12), my wife Amber :) (July 26), and my parents Irwin and Judy (July 30).
May God grant all of them another year filled with marital bliss, like my past year was. :) I love you honey.

I know i'm missing people and if you know of some, or yourself, please email me and give me a piece of your mind... :)

Not much else going on besides work and church activities. My folks are coming tomorrow with my brothers to help build a big deck on the back of our house. and then we hope to have a big party on july 31, which all of you are invited to if you're in the area around that time (for those age 30 and below :))...just let me know.

well, i hope and pray that things are going well for all of you. if you have prayer concerns that you'd like to share, amber and i would love to hear them and pray for you. they'll be kept confidential, of course. i realize that this mass email thing is hideous to some of you, so feel free to discontinue receiving it by replying and chewing me out. :) but anyway, i do love mass emails from others b/c i love to keep up with people a bit and know what's going on in there world. for example, we haven't heard from karsten finseth in awhile...i'm still waiting the next release of karsten's krazy kronicles (not to be confused with the very racist organization...the KKK).

with that, i'm off...
God bless,
Tom

June 11, 2004--I See Your Mouth Moving, But...

Sometimes I feel like my mouth is moving but nothing worthwhile is coming out...actually, sometimes I KNOW nothing worthwhile is coming out...but anyway...

Just wanted to give a little update on Amber and myself. We just got back from a decent vacation where we had the privilege of seeing Jamie and Cara (Van Vugt) Iedema and Darren and Rachel (Ellis) De Groot get married. Jamie and Cara were married on May 29 in Hospers, IA and Darren and Rachel were married June 5 in Holland, MI. Along the way we were welcomed into the homes of Chris and Rachel Wassenaar, Luke and Tracy Shannon, and Kate Van Drunen, Tony Rietema's fiance.
We also got to spend some time with Jessie Koopmans, Steve Brouwer, Nick Van Veldhuizen, Andy and Sharla Van Roekel, Schuyler Noteboom, Dan and Sarah (Pontier for a month longer) De Vries, Karen Vreeman, Dave Contant, Kristin Vanden Bosch, Joel and Jill Schreurs, Rochelle and Cody Statema, Tony and Kate, John Hansel, and even ran into LoraLee Bykerk and her fiance Mike Bruxvoort. It was so great to see old friends again. A while back we also spent a few hours with Ben and Jo Addink, Matt Wolthuizen, and Kara VanderLinden while they were passing through Colorado...we hope more people follow in their footsteps as we LOVE hosting people. Joel Weaver and his significant other will soon be doing just that.

Amber finished teaching for the school year on May 21 and has been loving the break. She didn't try very hard to obtain a summer job, but it's okay since she has aspirations of volunteer work and painting the inside of our house. Plus, she's earned a long break.

I am a month into working for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage for the third time (or fourth--depending on how you look at it). I really enjoy what I do, which is set people up with loans (mortgages) to either buy a house or refinance their current one. I've been in this business now for quite some time in almost every aspect of the mortgage process, so I like to think that I have some knowledge to offer.

Now for the sales pitch: WORKING FOR WELLS FARGO, 2003'S #1 RETAIL MORTGAGE LENDER IN THE NATION, I CAN DO LOANS IN ANY STATE! So, if you're thinking about buying a house or refinancing your mortgage, want to consolidate debt or do a home improvement project, DO NOT HESITATE to contact me day or night. Even if you don't do the loan through me, I can run numbers for you and help you make the right decision. My promise to all customers, family and friends or not, is that I will always advise what I think is in their best interest. And we can do loans for almost anyone. Yesterday I gave a pre-approval letter to a lady who is looking for a $180,000-$200,000 house and she doesn't even have a job!!

I also SPECIALIZE in the more difficult loans, ones with poor credit, low income, and anything else that doesn't fall under the conventional guidelines...we can do loans for people with bankruptcies, judgments, late payments on their mortgage, very little income, etc. The great part of this job is how grateful people are just to GET a loan...most places turn them down. And even if you have great credit and stable income, I can still advise you and turn you to the right person to get a great loan at a great interest rate. We also offer discounts, like $300 to a charity of your choice, $300 to you just for opening a free checking account with Wells Fargo, $500 closing discounts, etc.

So yeah, I hope all that mouth-moving was worth something. And feel free to nag me about the cheesy sales pitch. :)

May,2004--Heads On Straight, Feet On Backwards

As for the current news, I just resigned from my position at the Weld County Sheriff’s Office and have accepted a position to work once again for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Inc. This time I will be a loan originator, as I have pretty much done everything else already. It was a job opportunity that I couldn't pass up. For those of you who have been praying about the decision, thank you so much. Not only do I have hours that my wife appreciates so much more, but I get to attend church regularly instead of being out of it for four straight weeks. Also, I know longer have to be surrounded with some of the worst language, attitudes, and behavior for 13 hours a day. And, this job will hopefully enable us to pay off debts faster, as we have plenty. So again, thanks for your prayers and concerns. I start the new job at the beginning of May.

Church life has been going well for us, our Easter service felt like it went really well, as we had well over 100 people in attendance, the praise and worship went well, the preaching was great, and the set up (a huge wooden cross standing in the middle of the sanctuary with all the chairs facing it in a ¾ circle, as well as a roll of white cloth about 3 feet wide draped all over the rafters and each time swooping back to the center, right above the cross, not to mention the Easter lilies) was beautiful and drew your attention to the cross in the center. So yeah, we love our churches…we still attend Trailhead Community Church on Sunday evenings as well. Both churches have such great hearts for hurting people in Greeley…it’s great to be a part of that.

Amber is doing well and winding down the school year, though track is in full swing and she coaches again this year. She only has 6 weeks left and is looking forward to the time off this summer and to seeing a few friends get married in northwest Iowa as well as Holland, Michigan.

Prayer requests:

* Friends as they prepare for weddings this summer, both the wedding and the marriage

* My sister Shelly as she recovers from dual knee surgery

Oh, before I forget…the subject of this article refers to my actions, and the actions of many Christians in this country. It seems we have our heads on straight, and our feet on backwards. No matter what denomination you are part of or not a part of, we like to believe that we have our theology correct. However, our feet seem to be pointed backwards, and therefore that’s the direction they walk. Instead of taking that head knowledge and combining it with the passion in our hearts to bring the Gospel and the love of Christ to our communities, we seem content to withdraw (again, because our feet are pointed the wrong way) and point fingers at the world’s problems, only sharing the love of Christ when people are broken enough to make the effort to come to US. Even then, our love is often conditional, giving the impression that we will be happy to welcome them into our church if they are willing to change and become good, upstanding citizens as we like to think we are. This is never spoken from our side, but has been voiced across the country by those turned off by the church.

However, this is not how Christ wanted it. He commanded his disciples to GO, not to sit and wait in comfortable churches (and by “comfortable” I do not mean padded benches as opposed to solid wood) for hurting people to find their way to a church they hope won’t turn them away or look down on them. We are to meet people where they are at, as Paul tried to be “all things to all men,” meeting them at their point of need and pain.

We Reformed denominations are especially guilty of this, and have even been called the “sleeping giant of Christianity” (by Billy Graham). We believe strongly that our theological doctrine is in line with Biblical truth, but have been traditionally lacking in PASSION for Christ, in love for him and others that helps us keep not only our heads on straight, but also our feet. The great passage of love, I Corinthians 13, says, “If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am NOTHING.” Even if we have our doctrine correct, and I believe that no human, save one, has ever fully grasped how salvation works, if we do not have love that inspires us to reach out, we have, and are, nothing.

Fishing stories get exaggerated, but how many fisherman would actually dare tell a story of sitting in a dock, net in hand, while fish jumped into those nets? Christ has charged us to be fishers of men…how can we do that if we are content to sit on the dock (in church)? There is no blaming here…if there is, the finger is pointing at me. These are the thoughts I have been challenged with as of late and wanted to share them with you. So how about you? Which direction are your feet pointed?