First of Many: Thanks and Appreciation

Here I am... My first blog and really live journal. Hopefully, it will be not only entertaining but useful for me. We'll see...

Anyways, first of all since this is my first blog I want to throw out some acknowledgements of appreciation. I started going to Horizon in mid-january. At the time I spent it running around to different church services and multiple bible studies. As a new horizonite, I was surprisingly instantly bombarded with emails from the leadership in welcome. I don't care what people say but first impressions can be important. I was seeking to expand my network of Christian friends and find great fellowship, I had no idea what it was eventually going to lead too.

I first want to thank Matt Etner, for inviting me out to my first link group. You were willing to bring in an outsider and I saw that as the community opening it's arms. Clay you rock... You were the next impactful piece to draw me closer to Horizon. I am so glad, and look forward to developing a closer relationship. At some point I made my way to the Towson horizon... And at that time ran into Matt Battaglia for the second time... A familiar face. Bro, the instant I ran into you I was like, I can relate with this guy. It been great getting to know you, hopefully we can play some more frisbee before the season is out. Oh, yes Matt is my new accountant and had the pleasure of finding out that I owed the state $1200 last year... ouch... Brandon, i've gotten to know you now better since we play on the best indoor soccer, the best team in the world... Cross-eyed... We're going professional next year!!!

The next step was me attending the Geek house... Tronster, you Rock... You have a different outlook on things and I always love to hear your perspective. Must say though, the first time I was leaving your place and you said, "crash and burn." That was somewhat startling but hey, that's your trademark. At the same time I got to meet Kelly... Kelly, instantly you did all you could to make me feel comfortable. I think you are a great leader and an asset to horizon... Keep up the good work and I look forward to more great times. Next I want to thank Paul. My current roommate now. You always seem to be laid back and I enjoy the fact that you like to chill and talk over a great Guiness. Reminder rent is due on the first... Just kidding... Dave Cowan, No words man... You are one the most compassionate people i've met. You genuinely care about everyone and I thank you for listening. If you ever need something, it's yours! Next I want to thank the Reichleys... Dave, we had major problems communicating at the beginning but I am so glad you put up with my slighted humor, clumsyness, and stupid rambling. You are also the reason for the random shouts, "Banks!!" Mel... no words... your taco dip is unreal and your unending hospitality is most appreciated. Strangely, you seem to really know my personality. Jenn, I think it was the second time I went to Horizon when I met you. Jaclyn talked to me the week before and she mentioned she had a friend at that church. Your face was priceless, I connected the name ,and you must have been like, what?!? Anyways, I appreciate your perspective and leadership. I Look forward to knowing you better! Dave Palmer... wow dude... have to say love the tattoo... haha no really, I enjoy hearing your thoughts. Rebecca, you rock... you have tons of energy and love people. You are going to do awesome things here... Jess, wow... sometimes I don't understand you b/c you are talking in Einstein-talk but I love it... Don't change... John and Megan... you guys are tons of fun, I look forward to knowing you better. Almost forgot Mark... Dude... I must say after the first time I met you I was like, I think we are going to get along well. I introduced myself and then he replied with "Jeff." Well, have to say it's been a pleasure and I am very happy we have some more athletes, just when you play soccer, the intention is to score in the opposing goal. J/K Look forward to more talks and more sermons! Tim Baur, dude... your honesty and frankness is all your own. I enjoy hearing your ideas. I know I may have missed a bunch, but trust me everyone here has made a difference. This is an awesome community and I so look forward to building more friendships. "For where two or three come together in My name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:20

I am so excited to see how God works through this church!

Praise Him!!!