Dear Xanga,

Long time no talk. How are things? You still posting pictures and movies and stuff? I realize it has been a long time since we have talked but I have really been busy with school and work...and...sigh...ok. Listen, I'm not really sure how to bring this up so I am just going to come out and say it...I have been seeing someone else. It's not you, its me. We have just grown apart. You are into hearing my thoughts and you have always been great with that but I need more than just a journal entry. I need excitement, I need the freedom to go places I have never been, connect with people I don't really know. You always asked to see my pictures and videos but then cut me off when I was really want to share my life with you. Why do you limit me to only sharing a few pictures? Things aren't like that anymore...I have started a relationship with Facebook and things are going great. We are visiting old friends, connecting with new ones, we started taking an art (graffiti) class and joined a few clubs together. Whenever we meet, she always wants to know how I am doing...you never asked how I was doing! I'm sorry, I didn't think things would turn out like this but I think it would be better if we both parted ways...you deserve better. I just hope we can still be friends.

Best of luck to you,

Dan

 For those I have neglected...

Over the last 2 weeks I have had 6 exams, 2 papers, a development biology interview, and an education presentation. Needless to say I have neglected a lot of things in my life. I have neglected my friends, my family, my girlfriend, work, bible study and have outright treated my car like garbage. Today marked the last day of exams for me and while I want to devote much of time to those things I have neglected, I have chosen to start with my car. So let me tell you a bit about it...

Lucky Jade Woelders was adopted in February of 2005 from a foster home in Cloverdale. Although there were difficulties initially (mostly the brakes) she was in great shape. I am sure she was just having difficulties adjusting to a new home. We have been through a lot together... She was there when I came to UCFV, she was there on my first date with Michelle, she was there when my niece and nephew were born and she endured my long trips to school. Over the last month I have failed to wash her, failed to vacuum, failed to check oil, and have throw my trash into the backseat like it was a waste bin. Today we spent some great quality time together.... So, please let me introduce you to.... 

 Ms. Lucky Jade

Dalan (half Dan/half Alan)

Alan and I were sitting around Starbuck's attempting to study one night when he decided to draw a picture of me. Of course, the only thing that made it "me" at the time was the stubble. I replied to his picture by adding something the made it more Alan. To make a long story short, we passed this picture back and forth, drawing everything that made Alan Alan and everything that made me me. If you know either of us you are probably nodding in agreement as you analyze the picture. Can anyone decipher my traits from Alan's?

My Hero...err...Heroine

After spending the last few days in bed battling a cold and fever I have come to learn a few things.

1. NyQuil does nothing for me.

2. Dristan nasal spray is a wonder-drug.

3. It's best to stay up late and sleep during the day because nothing good is on television during the day.

4. I am completely helpless when I am sick.

5. I have the sweetest girlfriend ever.

With not even a hint of reluctance Michelle rescued me from the evil cold that held me with its "plunging claw-like" grip. She brought a cold/fever kit with all sorts goodies. Of course I have no idea what pills I was swallowing and what she was mixing into all of those drinks but I think the recovery will be quick. Or at least feel quick because of my semi-conscious state the last few days. She even endured an undoubtedly boring evening in front of the tv with me in my jammies and a hoody, hair matted and pillow creases across my face.What a gift she is!

Afterthought...

I am also now reminded of the last time I got sick. I was also blessed by Jordan and Mikayla who went out of their way to bring me a "get-well" kit.

Having fun in Florida...

...but not forgetting our friends...