Friday, February 22, 2008

Another snow day! Come June I may be regretting these- but they do have a way of falling in a needed spot.


So much is going on- it is nice to have a day to catch my breath. Last week, I was sick with some type of flu bug. I didn't leave my bed for two days (or eat for that matter- which does wonders for the figure). Once the fever broke and the foggy congestion started to clear, I was able to get back into the swing of things- but we lost a bit of time. I missed two days of work and I haven't been able to get back into things since being back. I'm discovering that although I love my job- it is a tough job and most days I wonder if I'm doing a lot right. We have a new boss who is bringing a lot of good changes- but I feel overwhelmed most of the time. So many i's to dot and t's to cross. Seventy-six days to summer break but who's counting???


Teens Involved is tomorrow. The youth have been working hard on music, puppets and drama and it is always a great day for them. I'm praying they have good attitudes and work well as teams. Satan has been seeking to discourage them in the last few weeks. God brings great teachable moments along- they aren't always comfortable for the teens or us- but I pray that we all gain what He wants us to learn through them.


The next big event is our Ministry Fair on 3/8. We have about 20 different ministries coming in to present to our youth. We will have time for the teens to get information about service opportunties and to talk in a small group setting with the presenters. We'll end the evening with a youth rally including music/drama/media and our speaker. It is always exciting to see how events like this come together and I'm praying we have a great showing of youth (100) and it is an encouragment to all involved! I've gotten a lot done for the event but there is still a bit to fine-tune and organize.


Then- April hits and I head to New Orleans for a week with a team of girls from school. We still need to raise about 2500$ to pay for the expenses. I'm excited about the trip (a little bummed that I'm losing my entire vacation)- but I know this will be a great experience.


I still haven't made a firm decision about Germany this summer. I think I'll do it- but have been holding off making a decision- not because I don't want to, just because I've had so many other things on my mind.


Overall- things are going well. Actually, some things are going so well I wonder when the tide will turn. Other things- just are. There is always that nagging question "is this it?". I feel like I was made for more and it frustrates me that the things I really want to put my attention to, I can't because of responsibilities like- a job. I praise God for the opportunties I have to share Him at work and I know this season has a purpose. But sometimes it's hard to be content in the waiting.

Sunday, February 10, 2008

This was the first weekend in a bit that I was able to truly stop for a bit. It felt good yesterday- though I was a wee bit grumpy to hear my cell ring before 8am- WHO could be calling on a Saturday morning???? Just kidding Rob!



The last few weeks have been so full. Work has been very busy- almost to the point of overwhelming. One day- I thought I was going to breakdown. I was so behind and couldn't get my head above water. Katie was so wonderful to stay late with me and help me wrap up some important to-dos. What a blessing her friendship is. We spent some time together yesterday and it is always enjoyable to hear what God is doing in and through her. She challenges me to be faithful and a bold witness- I fail so often. I appreciate her wisdom and insight. Friday night was great too as I got to catch up with Bek (and enjoy the most delicous steaks ever!- plus new shoes at TJ Maxx to boot!)



Today was a full day with the youth. We are gearing up for Teens Involved and had a number of practices planned. The teens are working hard and really doing a nice job. I love to see them getting excited and involved. Plus- it is fun to hang out with them. They are so hilarious!



Speaking of- last weekend was Snow Camp. We had an adventerous drive up including some bad weather and a spin out on the highway - I won't tell you WHO did that???


The weekend was fantastic. The kids enjoyed each other and that was pretty cool. They had awesome counselors who answered all their questions. It was neat to see God working and challenging many of them. It was especially exciting to see our unsaved kids really questioning and seeking. One said to me, "I know that I need to accept Christ." Another said they believed but were not ready to surrender to the Lord yet. Pray for these kids- they are so close to making a decision for Christ. It was exciting to see our teens witnessing to them and being a light- and to see our kids really looking out for one another. Most of our kids had never gone to Snow Camp before and the more experienced kids took them under their wings to help them out. I walked away truly blessed- especially when the counselors complimented our youth and leaders. It made me smile to think back over the hard work that we've put in the last 1.5 years. I felt like this weekend brought me closer to a number of the kids too.



Enjoy a few pics and video of our kids-