Mark and I will have been married 12 years tomorrow. We decided to go out to dinner tonight since we both look forward to Vespers on Saturdays at St. Peter’s. Vespers is Mark’s favorite service. I am partial to Matins because I love the reading of the Psalms. We went to the Cheesecake Factory in Brea. Mark had this huge steak and I had beef ribs. Yummy. We brought home the cheesecake. It was a very nice way to spend the evening and end the work week. We went early and were seated right away. When we left, there was a line and people waiting outside.

Our best friends came over on Thursday evening to catch up. They brought a chocolate cream pie. It’s funny to see them a few times a week but not talk to them much. The nave is not a place to visit–the atmosphere demands reverence.

Dad’s license was suspended today. The notice came yesterday from the DMV. I thought they would at least have him drive or take a test. But, the notice came with no real options. He can request a hearing but I doubt that will be successful. He is very angry. Some of the things he says would be comical if he wasn’t struggling so. I told him that if he gets pulled over with a suspended license, they will impound his car. He told me he would just move to another city. Like that will help. He can read, but doesn’t comprehend. He thought the letter said he had to go to the DMV on Friday. What it actually said was his license was suspended on Friday. I doubt he will stop driving unless he gives up the car. We shall see. It’s funny–driving is one of the things he can actually remember how to do.

Mark and I became catechumen last Sunday. It is the first step in joining the Orthodox Church. I was expecting to be nervous. I thought I probably would not sleep on Saturday night. Instead, I slept fine. Sunday morning was fine and I felt very peaceful during Father Patrick’s prayer over us. I thought I might even get emotional; I teared a bit, but my heart was very peaceful. I am sure we are doing the right thing.

Glory to God!