Merry Christmas from the Potts family:

    2011 was a year of adversity, change and growth for our family. 

    In January, Gregg resigned as Pastor of FBC Dallas where he had served for six years.  At the time of his resignation, he wasn’t sure what direction the Lord was taking him, but he wanted to explore some non-traditional areas of ministry.  After a month of prayer and research, in February, we began holding informational meetings to start “The Retreat: A New Church Start.”  We began meeting as a small group in March and met through the end of June.  This was a rewarding and learning experience for us; however, at the end of June, The Retreat was disbanded.  This was a tough decision, but we felt it was the right decision.  Outside fund-raising had really struggled. 

      In April, Gregg’s dad, Robert Potts, passed away.   He had struggled with Parkinson’s for a year or two but his health really deteriorated in the last year.  He had been in the Kentwood Nursing Home since November of 2010 and passed away at Beacham hospital in Magnolia in April of 2011. 

      In May, we had two graduations.  Robert graduated from Kennesaw State and Sarah graduated from Paulding County High.  Sarah was class President.  She has since moved in with her brothers and is attending Kennesaw State with Will.  We are very proud of both her and Robert

      In July we enjoyed a family vacation in Panama City Beach.  This has become somewhat of a tradition for us, though we realize that it will become more difficult each year. 

     Holli returned to Paulding County High School in August for her 7^th year there.  While she has decreased her cheerleading responsibilities, she is even busier with other activities at the school.

     In September, in a desire to cut expenses, we moved from Dallas to Marietta.  The Lord opened a door and provided a small house that is perfect for us at this stage in our lives.  Also, in September Gregg had an opportunity to return to his home area and preach a revival at Osyka Baptist.  It was a lot of fun to see family and friends that week. 

     Will has settled in nicely after transferring to Kennesaw State last year.  He was elected Homecoming King in October.  He is pursuing an education degree, but has decided to add business classes since going to work for Chik-fil-a.  With a second job at the Sun Glass Hut, he has very little spare time.

     The first of November Gregg started serving First Baptist Church, Emerson.  He is enjoying preaching regularly and getting to know these people.

     Robert has gotten a job with a group known as “Americans for Faith and Prosperity.”  We are very happy for him.  However, it requires him to move to the Hampton Roads area of Virginia which will represent a challenge.  He will relocate the last week of December, and will be there through next year’s elections.

     Please continue to pray for us as we search for God’s will in our lives and that of our children.  This has been a year that the Lord has taught us to lean on Him in a way that we have never had to before.   God has provided for us and we are thankful.