In the day or two following a great loss, I have taken time to reflect on life as I know it. The life I am leading, where I am headed, what I am doing to make the world a better place....
I have 2 voices going through my head....Kathleen gave us an example unlike any I have ever witnessed in real life. Her love for family, church, and God is an inspiration to me. She taught me so much in the last year and I will think of her every time I need to make a decision (I should clarify here, anytime I need to make a church decision - all things fixing/handyman/plumbing/building related will still be consulted through my Grampa, RIP).
Kathleen taught everyone she came in contact with, (especially over the last 2 years)how to fight a good fight. She never did anything half-way, everything, even in death, was full on, 100%, ready to go, get out of my way, lets rock....I am no longer living life half-a*&. not anymore. take life by the horns....
...the other voice is John Mayer, at his concert a few months ago, he talked about how if we can follow extraordinary people, learn from their mistakes, and take their life and model our after it, we don't have to go down any bad roads again...and we can learn how to REALLY live...amen and amen in the wake of the loss of Kathleen.
no more half-a&* from me....more postings, more books being written, more reading, more learning, more ordination, more loving family, more hanging with friends, more...living.....
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Monday, September 15, 2008
empty promises
I am prety sure at this point NOBODY is checking this blog. I would have stopped a long time ago, in fact, I did..oops...
So here is it, the first blog post in a long time. I am going to really try this time to get into more of a habit. Seriously...
THE OTHER SIDE OF THE RAIL
At camp this summer, I had a great moment when a Jr. high camper came up to me after the last nights worship service and was really excited. Here is a transcript of the conversation:
Camper: "I don't know what is wrong, I am like, so excited"
Me: "Why?"
Camper: "Does this feeling ever go away?"
Me: "What do you mean?"
Camper: "ok, I just served communion for the first time in my life and I love this feeling!" Does it ever go away?"
Me: "Nope"
Camper: "Really? This is so awesome!"
At which point she spazzed to her friends...
It was an awesome moment and served as a great reminder for me of what a joy it is to be the go between God and human in that moment of rememberance.
Very often I get to be the catalyst for God to do God's work in peoples hearts, that is just cool!
I do think it is interesting the variation of people's responses when they take communion.
The "funniest" is when people thank me (like I had anything to do with this). It is a socially appropriate response when people give you something, I know that, but I know my role in this act and there is no need to thank me...I promise.
"Thanks be to God" is my verbal response of choice. The ritual is designed to be a reminder of all that God has done and sacrificed for us, thanks be to God!
Serving communion feeds my soul and receiving communion is one of the "thinnest places" for me to encounter God. What a powerful opportunity!
So here is it, the first blog post in a long time. I am going to really try this time to get into more of a habit. Seriously...
THE OTHER SIDE OF THE RAIL
At camp this summer, I had a great moment when a Jr. high camper came up to me after the last nights worship service and was really excited. Here is a transcript of the conversation:
Camper: "I don't know what is wrong, I am like, so excited"
Me: "Why?"
Camper: "Does this feeling ever go away?"
Me: "What do you mean?"
Camper: "ok, I just served communion for the first time in my life and I love this feeling!" Does it ever go away?"
Me: "Nope"
Camper: "Really? This is so awesome!"
At which point she spazzed to her friends...
It was an awesome moment and served as a great reminder for me of what a joy it is to be the go between God and human in that moment of rememberance.
Very often I get to be the catalyst for God to do God's work in peoples hearts, that is just cool!
I do think it is interesting the variation of people's responses when they take communion.
The "funniest" is when people thank me (like I had anything to do with this). It is a socially appropriate response when people give you something, I know that, but I know my role in this act and there is no need to thank me...I promise.
"Thanks be to God" is my verbal response of choice. The ritual is designed to be a reminder of all that God has done and sacrificed for us, thanks be to God!
Serving communion feeds my soul and receiving communion is one of the "thinnest places" for me to encounter God. What a powerful opportunity!
Monday, July 28, 2008
wow! what a summer
I guess it has been a while since I posted anything here! It has been a crazy and unreal kind of summer, both in schedule and amazing things that have happened.
As I sit here, I am recovering from 2 amazing weeks away, the first was at Sr. High Camp and the second was Sr. High Mission Trip. And at the same time, some of my dearest friends have just had their second child. They are spending the first few hours together, and I hope to see them all tomorrow.
In the meantime, there are about 1000 stories and thoughts I want to post, and I have made a commitment to myself to get them out there so that others might enjoy as well.
Here are some of the topics/titles that are in the hopper...
"The other side of the rail" (communion post, awesome story)
"Mission Trips thoughts"
"It's almost like homeless people are real people"
"Never drive a bus in a cemetery at night"
"Always fill your youth trips with awesome adults"
" A new understanding of youth empowerment"
" A new understanding of sharing the blessing of ministry"
"Answering the call to ministry" (made my summer!)
"Why we need a lot more adults/parents in youth ministries"
" Some awesome program ideas I had a 2 am while sleeping on the floor"
Lots more thoughts coming, I promise...thanks for hanging with me over the summer!
As I sit here, I am recovering from 2 amazing weeks away, the first was at Sr. High Camp and the second was Sr. High Mission Trip. And at the same time, some of my dearest friends have just had their second child. They are spending the first few hours together, and I hope to see them all tomorrow.
In the meantime, there are about 1000 stories and thoughts I want to post, and I have made a commitment to myself to get them out there so that others might enjoy as well.
Here are some of the topics/titles that are in the hopper...
"The other side of the rail" (communion post, awesome story)
"Mission Trips thoughts"
"It's almost like homeless people are real people"
"Never drive a bus in a cemetery at night"
"Always fill your youth trips with awesome adults"
" A new understanding of youth empowerment"
" A new understanding of sharing the blessing of ministry"
"Answering the call to ministry" (made my summer!)
"Why we need a lot more adults/parents in youth ministries"
" Some awesome program ideas I had a 2 am while sleeping on the floor"
Lots more thoughts coming, I promise...thanks for hanging with me over the summer!
Sunday, June 8, 2008
leaving...
I am sittting in my office, and after a whirlwind weekend, am preparing to leave on a weeklong trip...choir tour and mission trip....
I hope I have a chance to post throught the week about my travels, so check back often...peace.
I hope I have a chance to post throught the week about my travels, so check back often...peace.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
a postmodern slap in the face...identity crisis
today I got a flyer for a very popular youth ministry conference that happens 3 times all over the country every year. It is put on by a HUGE publishing company that publishes a slew o books on "postmodern" youth ministry. (Have no idea what I am talking about, click here for a postmodern primer)
I was struck beyond words at the cover...this is what it says: (only with fancy graphic designs behind it)
NATIONAL YOUTH WORKERS 2008
make it a convention
make it a camp for youth workers
make it a spiritual retreat
make it whatever you want
...whatever you need
...its yours
I have been to these conferences and they are spectacular. they always bring in the "biggest bands" and the greatest speakers. They make you laugh, they make you cry, they teach, they connect. They are really a great tool for youth directors....twice...I went three times and the third time seemed like the same thing, just with a different "theme".
I know other people go every year, and if that is what works for them, great! I just got tired of the "show" given my current state of mind and ministry context.
The thing that is so striking to me, is that these conventions have always been very specific in goals and targeted in purpose and knew exactly who they were and what their purpose was....
now...the postmodern lens has come into view...and the attitude of "whatever" is creeping into this event.
Sounds to me as though this company is having a REAL BIG identity crisis...
In try postmodern fashion - they seem to be struggling with identity formation and identity evolution.
One of the things that this generation of youth ministers (and ironically enough - much of the education in this was done by THIS company) has been taught, is that the generation that we are working with now (you and your kids) have had, are having, and will continue to have identity crisis and times of exploration. Long gone are the days of people retiring having worked for a company for 40+ years (or 10 years for that matter). This is not a product of loyalty, this is a product of career shifts.
As we all go through the next few years together (talking to my SUMC people here) I look forward to exploring identity in Jesus Christ with you. I believe vocation and calling are central themes to happiness in life. I look forward to sharing this adventure together.
Questions for you to ponder:
What are you passionate about?
If you could do one thing for the rest of your life what would you do?
What would you do with your time if someone gave you 100 million dollars?
Who are you (deep down) and how i god shaping the person that you are becoming?
Who has greater influence on you - God or friends?
Leave your thoughts in the comment section if you wish...
I was struck beyond words at the cover...this is what it says: (only with fancy graphic designs behind it)
NATIONAL YOUTH WORKERS 2008
make it a convention
make it a camp for youth workers
make it a spiritual retreat
make it whatever you want
...whatever you need
...its yours
I have been to these conferences and they are spectacular. they always bring in the "biggest bands" and the greatest speakers. They make you laugh, they make you cry, they teach, they connect. They are really a great tool for youth directors....twice...I went three times and the third time seemed like the same thing, just with a different "theme".
I know other people go every year, and if that is what works for them, great! I just got tired of the "show" given my current state of mind and ministry context.
The thing that is so striking to me, is that these conventions have always been very specific in goals and targeted in purpose and knew exactly who they were and what their purpose was....
now...the postmodern lens has come into view...and the attitude of "whatever" is creeping into this event.
Sounds to me as though this company is having a REAL BIG identity crisis...
In try postmodern fashion - they seem to be struggling with identity formation and identity evolution.
One of the things that this generation of youth ministers (and ironically enough - much of the education in this was done by THIS company) has been taught, is that the generation that we are working with now (you and your kids) have had, are having, and will continue to have identity crisis and times of exploration. Long gone are the days of people retiring having worked for a company for 40+ years (or 10 years for that matter). This is not a product of loyalty, this is a product of career shifts.
As we all go through the next few years together (talking to my SUMC people here) I look forward to exploring identity in Jesus Christ with you. I believe vocation and calling are central themes to happiness in life. I look forward to sharing this adventure together.
Questions for you to ponder:
What are you passionate about?
If you could do one thing for the rest of your life what would you do?
What would you do with your time if someone gave you 100 million dollars?
Who are you (deep down) and how i god shaping the person that you are becoming?
Who has greater influence on you - God or friends?
Leave your thoughts in the comment section if you wish...
blogger vacation
my friend Rob had a great blog the other day about how hard it is to blog...he went on a 2+ month hiatus from blogging (not the first time he has done this either) and he came back with a blog about how hard it is to blog about funny. It is so true...
I wish I was better at blogginf more regularly, but new schedules bring new habits...I am will try to set aside a few minutes each day over the sumemr and begin using this time as a SPIRITUAL PRACTICE...
Here we go...
I wish I was better at blogginf more regularly, but new schedules bring new habits...I am will try to set aside a few minutes each day over the sumemr and begin using this time as a SPIRITUAL PRACTICE...
Here we go...
Monday, May 5, 2008
2-for1, plus some...
(Preface: sorry about all the stars talk, it is just so much fun right now!)
Last night those of us who were in the AAC were treated to a special deal. Last night, the Stars were having a promotion, "buy one game, get one free."
Last nights STARS - SHARKS Game 6 went into 4 overtimes....4.....that is 7 periods of hockey.
It was a BLAST, and crazy exhausting at the same time. When I was crawling in bed at 2:30 am, thinking of how great the NEXT SERIES will be, I did some math and realized Kyler would be waking up in 4 hours.....4 seemed to be a good number last night....
Anyway, it was great and needless to say I am thrilled the stars won and will be facing Detroit in the next round. A match-up that will be very tough for the Stars. Either way, it will be fun!
Last night those of us who were in the AAC were treated to a special deal. Last night, the Stars were having a promotion, "buy one game, get one free."
Last nights STARS - SHARKS Game 6 went into 4 overtimes....4.....that is 7 periods of hockey.
It was a BLAST, and crazy exhausting at the same time. When I was crawling in bed at 2:30 am, thinking of how great the NEXT SERIES will be, I did some math and realized Kyler would be waking up in 4 hours.....4 seemed to be a good number last night....
Anyway, it was great and needless to say I am thrilled the stars won and will be facing Detroit in the next round. A match-up that will be very tough for the Stars. Either way, it will be fun!
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Dear Blog
Dear blog,
Evan here. Sorry it has been so long. I got back from Chicago and had 1000 things to do and blogging just got moved to the bottom of the to-do list. thanks for understanding.
There are has been a lot to blog about, here is what I WOULD have blogged about if I had time:
- My trip to Chicago was AWESOME and I got a lot of time to think and dream for the future of the youth of Suncreek.
- the Stars won their first round series...yeah!
- the Stars play the sharks in the next round, and as a non-expert, I believe the key player for the stars in the next series will be Steve Ott. His aggressive, in your face style will be needed to upset the Sharks rhythm. Case and point, the last game of the regular season. My prediction, Stars in 6 (maybe 7) but I will call it 6.
- 30 ..... Saturday.....
- The youth fundraiser was HUGELY successful! Thanks to everyone who made it happen.
- I still don't like Barney....or songs about horns....
- WAY TO LIVE has started on Sunday nights and it is awesome!
- Confirmation is around the corner, I am excited about having this group involved in the life of the church.
So there blog, take that....and if it makes you feel better, Rob's blog called and it is thinking about a trial separation it has been so long since he posted.
Alright, I am out. Have a great day.
Evan
Evan here. Sorry it has been so long. I got back from Chicago and had 1000 things to do and blogging just got moved to the bottom of the to-do list. thanks for understanding.
There are has been a lot to blog about, here is what I WOULD have blogged about if I had time:
- My trip to Chicago was AWESOME and I got a lot of time to think and dream for the future of the youth of Suncreek.
- the Stars won their first round series...yeah!
- the Stars play the sharks in the next round, and as a non-expert, I believe the key player for the stars in the next series will be Steve Ott. His aggressive, in your face style will be needed to upset the Sharks rhythm. Case and point, the last game of the regular season. My prediction, Stars in 6 (maybe 7) but I will call it 6.
- 30 ..... Saturday.....
- The youth fundraiser was HUGELY successful! Thanks to everyone who made it happen.
- I still don't like Barney....or songs about horns....
- WAY TO LIVE has started on Sunday nights and it is awesome!
- Confirmation is around the corner, I am excited about having this group involved in the life of the church.
So there blog, take that....and if it makes you feel better, Rob's blog called and it is thinking about a trial separation it has been so long since he posted.
Alright, I am out. Have a great day.
Evan
Thursday, March 27, 2008
don't get eaten
be careful - there is a danger lurking in Allen, TX.
If you drive NORTH on Alma from McDermott to Exchange, do not drive in the right lane!
The large pacman trees are hungry and ready to eat you....
you have been warned...
If you drive NORTH on Alma from McDermott to Exchange, do not drive in the right lane!
The large pacman trees are hungry and ready to eat you....
you have been warned...
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
christian conferencing
one of the things that John Wesley found to be super important in any Christians faith (especially those involved in his societies) was the idea of Christian Conferencing... gathering together to learn...
In April, I will be traveling to Chicago to participate in a student ministries event called SHIFT. I first was inspired to go when I heard who the speakers were - Brian McClaren, Shane Claiborne, and Mark Yaconelli. I learned more about it, got myself registered and am excited...
THEN...today I got my list of break-out sessions that I am registered for. This got me CRAZY SUPER-DUPER excited!
Here they are:
Student Ministries Leadership Conference
A07: Reculturing Student Leadership
B27: Helping Students Think Critically About Marketing
C44: Remythologizing Our Teaching
D61: Deep Justice in a Broken World
4 topics I care deeply about and want to learn more about!
oh man, is in April yet?
I look forward to sharing what I learned with you all....
In April, I will be traveling to Chicago to participate in a student ministries event called SHIFT. I first was inspired to go when I heard who the speakers were - Brian McClaren, Shane Claiborne, and Mark Yaconelli. I learned more about it, got myself registered and am excited...
THEN...today I got my list of break-out sessions that I am registered for. This got me CRAZY SUPER-DUPER excited!
Here they are:
Student Ministries Leadership Conference
A07: Reculturing Student Leadership
B27: Helping Students Think Critically About Marketing
C44: Remythologizing Our Teaching
D61: Deep Justice in a Broken World
4 topics I care deeply about and want to learn more about!
oh man, is in April yet?
I look forward to sharing what I learned with you all....
Monday, March 24, 2008
better sports
I guess this train of thought all started a few years ago when I was at a minor league baseball game and thought to myself..."You know what would make this better...."
Before I share, let me say that I LOVE sports, I think there are great redeeming qualities to most sports (sorry NASCAR, you are on the short list). I love watching sports, playing sports, and talking about sports, so this in not a knock on sports, just some random thoughts that would make certain sports better....
You know what would make baseball better?
Lassos
When someone begins to steal second, the first baseman can take out a lasso and try to corrall him. Think about it....2 ways to get a guy out - the catcher would still throw the ball to second and attempt to get him out, but adding a lasso might be an interesting idea...
You know what would make soccer better?
Playing 2 balls at the same time
Think about it, it would totally change the strategy of the game. Plus think of the excitement and chaos when the home team tears down each side of the field with a ball - it would be entirely possible to score 2 goals at a time...
also, you know what would make pro soccer better - stop the fake injuries and falling down crying...man that is annoying
You know what would make NASCAR better?
The various explosive devices found in car racing video games
Think abou it...the guy in 4th is 2 laps down, at which point he throws out a heat seeking "whajammer" which makes the first place guy spin wildly out of control, only to have him land safely on the infield grass to collect his thoughts and continue racing.
You know what would make football better?
new rules
Think about it - the addition of new rules, like "FREEZE TAG" would add a whole new element to the game. Other rules to consider:
BLUE FLAG RULE - in addition to red challenge flag, the coach gets a blue flag in which, when thrown, the opposing team must play the next play with no shoes
RED ROVER RULE - at the end of each quarter, each team lines up on the sidelines and calls one player from the opposing team over
THE TONY ROMO RULE - Tony Romo is not allowed to enter the country of Mexico....ever....not just before the playoffs, ever.
You know what would make basketball better?
open player subsitutions
no need to call a timeout or wait for the clock to stop...just throw the players you want out there.
You know what would make hockey better?
nothing - hockey is awesome....
Before I share, let me say that I LOVE sports, I think there are great redeeming qualities to most sports (sorry NASCAR, you are on the short list). I love watching sports, playing sports, and talking about sports, so this in not a knock on sports, just some random thoughts that would make certain sports better....
You know what would make baseball better?
Lassos
When someone begins to steal second, the first baseman can take out a lasso and try to corrall him. Think about it....2 ways to get a guy out - the catcher would still throw the ball to second and attempt to get him out, but adding a lasso might be an interesting idea...
You know what would make soccer better?
Playing 2 balls at the same time
Think about it, it would totally change the strategy of the game. Plus think of the excitement and chaos when the home team tears down each side of the field with a ball - it would be entirely possible to score 2 goals at a time...
also, you know what would make pro soccer better - stop the fake injuries and falling down crying...man that is annoying
You know what would make NASCAR better?
The various explosive devices found in car racing video games
Think abou it...the guy in 4th is 2 laps down, at which point he throws out a heat seeking "whajammer" which makes the first place guy spin wildly out of control, only to have him land safely on the infield grass to collect his thoughts and continue racing.
You know what would make football better?
new rules
Think about it - the addition of new rules, like "FREEZE TAG" would add a whole new element to the game. Other rules to consider:
BLUE FLAG RULE - in addition to red challenge flag, the coach gets a blue flag in which, when thrown, the opposing team must play the next play with no shoes
RED ROVER RULE - at the end of each quarter, each team lines up on the sidelines and calls one player from the opposing team over
THE TONY ROMO RULE - Tony Romo is not allowed to enter the country of Mexico....ever....not just before the playoffs, ever.
You know what would make basketball better?
open player subsitutions
no need to call a timeout or wait for the clock to stop...just throw the players you want out there.
You know what would make hockey better?
nothing - hockey is awesome....
Sunday, March 23, 2008
HAPPY EASTER
HAPPY EASTER!
Hope today is filled with the joy, hope, and promise that it was filled with over 2000 years ago. May God Bless your family on this holiest of days.
Amen.
Hope today is filled with the joy, hope, and promise that it was filled with over 2000 years ago. May God Bless your family on this holiest of days.
Amen.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Monday, March 17, 2008
what a day!
so after my AWESOME morning, I was worried that the rest of the day was going to be a let down...good news is, it was just the opposite! My day was SO great. I got to spend the bulk of the day with a great group of youth from Suncreek when we visited City House, an emergency teen shelter in Plano. We hung out with some of the residence and cooked some yummy homemade lasagna. We had some of the youth from the shelter help us cook and it was great to interact with them (and always great top teach people the joy of cooking). There was talks of a youth culinary small group...count me in!
The Suncreek youth were amazing and usual and rolled with the punches and jumped in where needed. we obviosuly had too many youth to all be in the kitchen at the same time, so a group just hung out and played basketball and vollyball. When we switched I fully anticipated some complaining about the amount of work left, but not one word! They all just did what was needed to get the job done! It was awesome! A group of girls made some awesome cookies that were consumed in .14 seconds, it was great to provide a group which does not get a lot of homemade cookines that opportunity.
All in all, it was a great "mission moment" and I look forward to spending more time there soon!
After lunch, I picked up Ky from school early so we could hang out on his birthday. About 10 minutes after I picked him up, I started feeling pretty lousy. Sore throat and stuffy head. Didn't matter, we went to Toys 'R Us and bought some birthday toys with Nana & Pawpaw money! A HUGE dinosaur and an awesome new tractor, he is set!
All is all, great day!
The Suncreek youth were amazing and usual and rolled with the punches and jumped in where needed. we obviosuly had too many youth to all be in the kitchen at the same time, so a group just hung out and played basketball and vollyball. When we switched I fully anticipated some complaining about the amount of work left, but not one word! They all just did what was needed to get the job done! It was awesome! A group of girls made some awesome cookies that were consumed in .14 seconds, it was great to provide a group which does not get a lot of homemade cookines that opportunity.
All in all, it was a great "mission moment" and I look forward to spending more time there soon!
After lunch, I picked up Ky from school early so we could hang out on his birthday. About 10 minutes after I picked him up, I started feeling pretty lousy. Sore throat and stuffy head. Didn't matter, we went to Toys 'R Us and bought some birthday toys with Nana & Pawpaw money! A HUGE dinosaur and an awesome new tractor, he is set!
All is all, great day!
i hope my morning is an indication of how great my day is going to be...
Today is Kyler's 3rd birthday! It is awesome and these first 3 have flown by!
When Kyler woke up, I went into his room and laid down next to him on his bed. I gave him a big hug and told him Happy Birthday. He told me that he "did not scream real loud for me so he would not wake mommy up". This launched a 20 minute conversation ( a LONG time for a 3-year old) which covered a wide range of topics, including but limited to: Palm Sunday, donkeys, cars, cartons, lids, Bella, The Dart Train, the Moose on the Dart train, the Moose on the Dart train that scared everybody off the train, the real train, the deer on the real train, which animals bite (ants), and which do not (deer), who was currently sleeping in our house, where did everyone go who WAS sleeping in our house, bounce houses, birthday cake, and finally, "can we play with my octopus after we get dressed and go to school and I will not cry?". We just laid there and talked about all kinds of things. It was a PERFECT way to start off my day....
When Kyler woke up, I went into his room and laid down next to him on his bed. I gave him a big hug and told him Happy Birthday. He told me that he "did not scream real loud for me so he would not wake mommy up". This launched a 20 minute conversation ( a LONG time for a 3-year old) which covered a wide range of topics, including but limited to: Palm Sunday, donkeys, cars, cartons, lids, Bella, The Dart Train, the Moose on the Dart train, the Moose on the Dart train that scared everybody off the train, the real train, the deer on the real train, which animals bite (ants), and which do not (deer), who was currently sleeping in our house, where did everyone go who WAS sleeping in our house, bounce houses, birthday cake, and finally, "can we play with my octopus after we get dressed and go to school and I will not cry?". We just laid there and talked about all kinds of things. It was a PERFECT way to start off my day....
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
who wants a ride....
...ON THE BUS!!!!
That is it, it is official, mark the tape, I AM A CERTIFIED TX CDL ACTIVITY BUS DRIVER WITH PASSENGER AND AIR BRAKE ENDORSEMENT!!
I took my driving test this morning and passed with flying colors! Let the bus trips begin!
In all seriousness, it was a lot more difficult, and a LOT more time consuming, that I thought it would be. But trust me, OH SO WORTH IT - to have the ability to easily do things off campus will make ministry so much easier!
I am off for a celebratory lunch (yeah for Pei Wei!).
Hope you and yours are doing well.
That is it, it is official, mark the tape, I AM A CERTIFIED TX CDL ACTIVITY BUS DRIVER WITH PASSENGER AND AIR BRAKE ENDORSEMENT!!
I took my driving test this morning and passed with flying colors! Let the bus trips begin!
In all seriousness, it was a lot more difficult, and a LOT more time consuming, that I thought it would be. But trust me, OH SO WORTH IT - to have the ability to easily do things off campus will make ministry so much easier!
I am off for a celebratory lunch (yeah for Pei Wei!).
Hope you and yours are doing well.
Monday, March 10, 2008
monday monday
it's monday
it's raining
it's daylight savings weekend
its monday
ok, enough negativity -
there are still a lot of things to be happy about.
My kid turns 3 a week from today. St. Patty's Day!
We have family and friends (who might as well be family) coming in this weekend for a small get together for Ky. Should be great times.
We had a great time last night at UMYF - good times - sorry if you missed it!
Time to go to school - hope everyone is well - I will try to blog this afternoon when Ky is napping...
it's raining
it's daylight savings weekend
its monday
ok, enough negativity -
there are still a lot of things to be happy about.
My kid turns 3 a week from today. St. Patty's Day!
We have family and friends (who might as well be family) coming in this weekend for a small get together for Ky. Should be great times.
We had a great time last night at UMYF - good times - sorry if you missed it!
Time to go to school - hope everyone is well - I will try to blog this afternoon when Ky is napping...
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
a recantion
As per my "Barney" blog entry below, it has come to my attention of a song about a horn that is good....now before I officially recant my horn statement, I would like to put a few prefaces on my recantment...
PREFACE #1 - "76 Trombones" was written by Meridith Wilson ~ which has been brought forth as to redeem all "Horn songs" - for The Music Man
PREFACE #2 - I was IN The Music Man in high school (I was in the chorus, and my biggest claim to fame in that show was I was the guy who carried the big box which contained the pool table in the opening Iowa scene - Somehow, carrying a pool table only took 2 of us...we were incredibly strong, as most delivery men from Iowa are, or, for that matter, ALL people from Iowa are.)
PREFACE #3 - While I love that show, I would hardly call "76 Trombones" a "good song about a horn"
PREFACE #4 - I wrote that blog very early in the morning - I was tired
PREFACE #5 - I am just so glad someone is actually reading my blog...I will recant anything at this point
SO....here it is
I, EVAN JONES, ON THIS DATE - MARCH 5, 2008 - DO HEAR BY RECANT MY STATEMENT THAT 'THERE ARE NO GOOD SONGS ABOUT HORNS'. I DEEPLY APOLOGIZE TO MEREDITH WILSON, THE GOOD PEOPLE OF IOWA, EVERYONE WHO HAS EVER PLAYED A HORN - ESPECIALLY THOSE WHO PLAYED A TROMBONE, ANYONE WHO HAS EVER PERFORMED IN THE MUSIC MAN, ANYONE WHO LIKES BARNEY, OLD LADIES, FAT CHILDREN, PERSONS WITH ONE FOOT, THOSE WHO LIKE THE DETROIT RED WINGS (I AM LYING ABOUT THAT ONE, I AM NOT SORRY FOR YOU), AND ANYONE WHO ACTUALLY READS MY BLOG FOR MY SLANDEROUS AND OFFENSIVE STATEMENTS.
Jackie....I hope you like it, thanks for reading my blog!
PREFACE #1 - "76 Trombones" was written by Meridith Wilson ~ which has been brought forth as to redeem all "Horn songs" - for The Music Man
PREFACE #2 - I was IN The Music Man in high school (I was in the chorus, and my biggest claim to fame in that show was I was the guy who carried the big box which contained the pool table in the opening Iowa scene - Somehow, carrying a pool table only took 2 of us...we were incredibly strong, as most delivery men from Iowa are, or, for that matter, ALL people from Iowa are.)
PREFACE #3 - While I love that show, I would hardly call "76 Trombones" a "good song about a horn"
PREFACE #4 - I wrote that blog very early in the morning - I was tired
PREFACE #5 - I am just so glad someone is actually reading my blog...I will recant anything at this point
SO....here it is
I, EVAN JONES, ON THIS DATE - MARCH 5, 2008 - DO HEAR BY RECANT MY STATEMENT THAT 'THERE ARE NO GOOD SONGS ABOUT HORNS'. I DEEPLY APOLOGIZE TO MEREDITH WILSON, THE GOOD PEOPLE OF IOWA, EVERYONE WHO HAS EVER PLAYED A HORN - ESPECIALLY THOSE WHO PLAYED A TROMBONE, ANYONE WHO HAS EVER PERFORMED IN THE MUSIC MAN, ANYONE WHO LIKES BARNEY, OLD LADIES, FAT CHILDREN, PERSONS WITH ONE FOOT, THOSE WHO LIKE THE DETROIT RED WINGS (I AM LYING ABOUT THAT ONE, I AM NOT SORRY FOR YOU), AND ANYONE WHO ACTUALLY READS MY BLOG FOR MY SLANDEROUS AND OFFENSIVE STATEMENTS.
Jackie....I hope you like it, thanks for reading my blog!
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
I know, I know...
I imagine there will be a lot of people talking about this today, but here is MY version of the story....
last night I was up late (ok, not late, just later than the rest of my family). As I was crawling in bed I noticed that it seemed to be much brighter outside. I went over to the blinds and cracked them open to see SNOW!!! And lots of it! I was so excited, I went and woke Jana up! Being the good sport that she is, she h0pped out of bed to see it!
We are from South texas, and this is a rarity (like 1986 was the last time rarity) down there.
I could hardly sleep last night I was so excited to show Ky in the morning!
When he woke up, he was grumpy as usual and then I told him I had a big surprise for him. Like a light switch, he stopped crying and said "what is it? show me"
We went over to the window and I lifted the blinds to see the 5+ inches of snow that had fallen the night before! He flipped! He was so excited and talked about how it was like on Barney!
When I asked him if he wanted to go play, he said, NO! I want my mommy to hold me and you make a snowball....
a few minutes later we were all outside touching the snow. I will post some pictures when I get home...
when I dropped him off at school this morning, he asked me if we could play in the snow when we got home. I told him it would all be melted...then he started crying....screaming "I DON'T WANT YOU TO MELT IT".
A mom in the parking lot heard him and laughed and said, "WE had a very similar conversation this morning."
When I told him that I wasn't the one melting it, he said "who was melting it?"...I told him God. Then, not wanting him to not like god for melting the snow, I changed my answer to the sun. He doesn't like the sun anyway, it gets in his eyes.
last night I was up late (ok, not late, just later than the rest of my family). As I was crawling in bed I noticed that it seemed to be much brighter outside. I went over to the blinds and cracked them open to see SNOW!!! And lots of it! I was so excited, I went and woke Jana up! Being the good sport that she is, she h0pped out of bed to see it!
We are from South texas, and this is a rarity (like 1986 was the last time rarity) down there.
I could hardly sleep last night I was so excited to show Ky in the morning!
When he woke up, he was grumpy as usual and then I told him I had a big surprise for him. Like a light switch, he stopped crying and said "what is it? show me"
We went over to the window and I lifted the blinds to see the 5+ inches of snow that had fallen the night before! He flipped! He was so excited and talked about how it was like on Barney!
When I asked him if he wanted to go play, he said, NO! I want my mommy to hold me and you make a snowball....
a few minutes later we were all outside touching the snow. I will post some pictures when I get home...
when I dropped him off at school this morning, he asked me if we could play in the snow when we got home. I told him it would all be melted...then he started crying....screaming "I DON'T WANT YOU TO MELT IT".
A mom in the parking lot heard him and laughed and said, "WE had a very similar conversation this morning."
When I told him that I wasn't the one melting it, he said "who was melting it?"...I told him God. Then, not wanting him to not like god for melting the snow, I changed my answer to the sun. He doesn't like the sun anyway, it gets in his eyes.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Pilgrim's Progress
every now and then, you catch a song that moves you to tears...
I encountered one this weekend. Go to itunes and download this song right now.
It is called Pilgrims Progress performed by Kris Kristofferson (yes, THAT Kris Kristofferson). It is unbelivable and quite remarkably full of "Wesleyan Theology".
Even if it is not your genre of music - check it out and just listen to the words..
I young enough to believe in revolution
Am I strong enough to get down on my knees and pray
Am I high enough on the chain of evolution
To respect myself, and my brother and my sister
And perfect myself in my own peculiar way
I get lazy, and forget my obligations
I'd go crazy, if I paid attention all the time
And I want justice,
but I'll settle for some mercy
On this Holy Road through the Universal Mind
Repeat Chorus
I got lucky, I got everything I wanted
I got happy, there wasn't nothing else to do
And I'd be crazy not to wonder if I'm worthy
Of the part I play in this dream that's coming true
Repeat Chorus
© Jody Ray Publishing, Inc. (BMI) Except “Burden of Freedom” by © Careers-BMG Music Publishing (BMI)
I encountered one this weekend. Go to itunes and download this song right now.
It is called Pilgrims Progress performed by Kris Kristofferson (yes, THAT Kris Kristofferson). It is unbelivable and quite remarkably full of "Wesleyan Theology".
Even if it is not your genre of music - check it out and just listen to the words..
I young enough to believe in revolution
Am I strong enough to get down on my knees and pray
Am I high enough on the chain of evolution
To respect myself, and my brother and my sister
And perfect myself in my own peculiar way
I get lazy, and forget my obligations
I'd go crazy, if I paid attention all the time
And I want justice,
but I'll settle for some mercy
On this Holy Road through the Universal Mind
Repeat Chorus
I got lucky, I got everything I wanted
I got happy, there wasn't nothing else to do
And I'd be crazy not to wonder if I'm worthy
Of the part I play in this dream that's coming true
Repeat Chorus
© Jody Ray Publishing, Inc. (BMI) Except “Burden of Freedom” by © Careers-BMG Music Publishing (BMI)
my new favorite place on earth
there are a lot of places on this Earth that I love - the grand canyon, New York City, HEB camp, the list could go on and on.
This morning I found a new one - Escape Coffee & Donuts in Allen, TX
It is right across the street for my kids new school, and this morning I had my laptop and a few hours, so I popped in. This is the greatest place to work! It is loud, but hey, that is what headphones are for. there is this huge desktop place with comfy leather chairs and places to plug in your laptop. This is a great vibe, and, the coffee is GREAT!
1) Local is always better than corporate (I did however just found out that Starbucks provides full benefits to all part-time employees - that might be the only thing that tips the scale towards the 'bucks)
2) Frequent coffee program - buy 10 get one free...can't beat free!
3) Don't tell my competition in the weight loss competition, but the cinnamon rolls are unbelievable!
4) Two words - DRIVE THROUGH!
5) The decor is the coolest and weirdest thing I have ever seen.
6) the donut smell is stronger than the coffee smell, but not by much. simply the best combination of smells...ever
7) Did I mention the awesome comfy leather rolley chairs?
If you are in Allen, it is a great reason to - deep breath - cross the highway! If I am not at work or home, you can find me here....
This morning I found a new one - Escape Coffee & Donuts in Allen, TX
It is right across the street for my kids new school, and this morning I had my laptop and a few hours, so I popped in. This is the greatest place to work! It is loud, but hey, that is what headphones are for. there is this huge desktop place with comfy leather chairs and places to plug in your laptop. This is a great vibe, and, the coffee is GREAT!
1) Local is always better than corporate (I did however just found out that Starbucks provides full benefits to all part-time employees - that might be the only thing that tips the scale towards the 'bucks)
2) Frequent coffee program - buy 10 get one free...can't beat free!
3) Don't tell my competition in the weight loss competition, but the cinnamon rolls are unbelievable!
4) Two words - DRIVE THROUGH!
5) The decor is the coolest and weirdest thing I have ever seen.
6) the donut smell is stronger than the coffee smell, but not by much. simply the best combination of smells...ever
7) Did I mention the awesome comfy leather rolley chairs?
If you are in Allen, it is a great reason to - deep breath - cross the highway! If I am not at work or home, you can find me here....
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
coffee & barney
For those who have not heard, my beautiful wife got a job! This means lots of things for our family - but the one that is on my mind at the moment is the shift in our morning schedule that this job will bring. We have moved from man-to-man defense to zone defense. I am now responsible for Mon-Wed-Sat mornings. This means that each of those mornings, starting at at least 7 am I will be doing the same thing - in front of the TV with my son, drinking a wonderful cup of coffee and watching Barney...yes...THAT Barney - the big purple dinosaur Barney. Because of "On Demand Programming" we tend to watch the same episodes over and over....and over...and over...and over...you get my point. Below are some observations about the episode titled "Come Blow My Horn".
- Barney is only good with coffee
- Barney loves a lot of things, and a lot of people, and really needs to be affirmed by love
"I love you, you love me, won't you say you love me too"
- guys with handlebar mustaches should not play the trumpet
- why do the fat guys always play the tuba?
- BabyBop should not be responsible for playing the drum..ever
- The kind of diversity that is found on Barney would be great in real life!
- upon first inspection, I did not see how they would talk about horns for 30 minutes...they did..and in fact, SUNG about them as well
- songs about horns are dumb...all of them..tell me a song about a horn that is good and I will recant this statement
- Barney is creepy - especially when he jumps
- coffee is delicious
For some reason, my son wants to watch Barney again right now and he wants to watch the same episode again. I am off...
- Barney is only good with coffee
- Barney loves a lot of things, and a lot of people, and really needs to be affirmed by love
"I love you, you love me, won't you say you love me too"
- guys with handlebar mustaches should not play the trumpet
- why do the fat guys always play the tuba?
- BabyBop should not be responsible for playing the drum..ever
- The kind of diversity that is found on Barney would be great in real life!
- upon first inspection, I did not see how they would talk about horns for 30 minutes...they did..and in fact, SUNG about them as well
- songs about horns are dumb...all of them..tell me a song about a horn that is good and I will recant this statement
- Barney is creepy - especially when he jumps
- coffee is delicious
For some reason, my son wants to watch Barney again right now and he wants to watch the same episode again. I am off...
Thursday, February 7, 2008
confession...
Lent has started, so I have something to confess....
sometimes when I win at spider solitaire I leave the fireworks going so I can go back and look at them when I am feeling down....they remind me that I am a "winner".
Breathe, BOOM!
sometimes when I win at spider solitaire I leave the fireworks going so I can go back and look at them when I am feeling down....they remind me that I am a "winner".
Breathe, BOOM!
it's my job...
at many points in all of our lives, we will have a variety of jobs. I don't mean necessarily jobs that will pay us money, but instead we will have have tasks assigned to us that we will be asked to complete with maturity, responsibility, and grace. Now, in a moment of honesty, some of these jobs we will like, and some we will tolerate, and others we will detest. Sometimes we will do the jobs well, and sometimes we will not. I believe that it is our goal to do all of the tasks that we are assigned to do well, wether we like the job ir not. Otherwise, if you can, say no to the job and let someone else do it well.
Last night, during a emotion filled diaper time, when I asked my son why he was so grumpy. He said...
"It is my favorite job."
Most days he is a joy, last night, he mastered his job! What a lesson to us all....
Last night, during a emotion filled diaper time, when I asked my son why he was so grumpy. He said...
"It is my favorite job."
Most days he is a joy, last night, he mastered his job! What a lesson to us all....
Monday, February 4, 2008
bridgeport
we had an awesome time at mid-winter this weekend. The band was my favorite part...
no seriously...
it was a great weekend and if you missed it, you have to go next year! I have never laughed so much in my life...
here is a picture I took while we were there....
don't swim in the water!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
accountabilty
wow, it has been way to long since I have posted. "real" work has been on the front burner, so things like the blog have to get pushed back. I still have a lot going on, and probably the next 10 minutes I will spend blogging could be used for much better things, but, I had an interesting conversation last night with some folks and needed to throw out some of those thoughts and see what you think...
I have been at Suncreek UMC for a a little over 5 months now. I was charged with building the youth group up and creating a place of "radical hospitality" and community.
In my first 3 weeks at UMYF, we averaged 80+ (including one Sunday that was well over 100 youth). This was all good, but my experience has taught me that there was going to be a fall off, naturally. Youth (and their parents) were coming to "kick the tires" of the new youth director. I made it very clear that we would see fall-off unless there were more adults willing to step up and be involved. Well, 5 months later, here we are...(let me interject here, that we are averaging now, 60 youth on Sunday, so it is not a CRAZY drop off, but still need to address the issues)
I don't say this to be negative, or a "I told you so", or even as a guilt producing post to get people more involved...I say all this to give everyone the background for my conversation last night...
Last night I was talking with some folks who care deeply about the youth program, and we were talking about the drop in numbers. I said that the #1 reason why we are dropping in numbers is that there is no accountability. There is no one in place (adults specifically) to talk to the youth who were not there the Monday after they miss UMYF, there is no one who can connect with each individual when they walk in the door. This is where the role of adults in youth programs is crucial. There is no way for one person to connect with 100+ people every Sunday in the way that is meaningful. This is why John Wesley talked at great length about the importance of small groups and people who can hold each other accountable.
Much like this blog, there is no accountability to anyone when I do not post...when a youth misses a Sunday, there is no one to offer a "hey, we missed you".
Let me tangent for just a minute....I am CRAZY appreciative of the adults who are there every Sunday and are trying their hardest. I can see it starting to work and look forward to the journey together...ok.
I have some ideas for ways to get people to hold each other accountable, but want to hear you first. ideas? post in the comment section below - be sure and include your name so we know who you are. thanks!
oh, and I am going to try to post more often...seriously...
I have been at Suncreek UMC for a a little over 5 months now. I was charged with building the youth group up and creating a place of "radical hospitality" and community.
In my first 3 weeks at UMYF, we averaged 80+ (including one Sunday that was well over 100 youth). This was all good, but my experience has taught me that there was going to be a fall off, naturally. Youth (and their parents) were coming to "kick the tires" of the new youth director. I made it very clear that we would see fall-off unless there were more adults willing to step up and be involved. Well, 5 months later, here we are...(let me interject here, that we are averaging now, 60 youth on Sunday, so it is not a CRAZY drop off, but still need to address the issues)
I don't say this to be negative, or a "I told you so", or even as a guilt producing post to get people more involved...I say all this to give everyone the background for my conversation last night...
Last night I was talking with some folks who care deeply about the youth program, and we were talking about the drop in numbers. I said that the #1 reason why we are dropping in numbers is that there is no accountability. There is no one in place (adults specifically) to talk to the youth who were not there the Monday after they miss UMYF, there is no one who can connect with each individual when they walk in the door. This is where the role of adults in youth programs is crucial. There is no way for one person to connect with 100+ people every Sunday in the way that is meaningful. This is why John Wesley talked at great length about the importance of small groups and people who can hold each other accountable.
Much like this blog, there is no accountability to anyone when I do not post...when a youth misses a Sunday, there is no one to offer a "hey, we missed you".
Let me tangent for just a minute....I am CRAZY appreciative of the adults who are there every Sunday and are trying their hardest. I can see it starting to work and look forward to the journey together...ok.
I have some ideas for ways to get people to hold each other accountable, but want to hear you first. ideas? post in the comment section below - be sure and include your name so we know who you are. thanks!
oh, and I am going to try to post more often...seriously...
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
logo
the youth of suncreek need a logo...and we need your help!
if you have ideas for a simple, clean, and "hip" logo for the youth program, pass it on it us.
draw a rough draft on paint, draw it on the piece of paper, write it on a napkin.
If you need some inspiration...
check these links out:
http://www.summitsoftlogodesign.com/graphics/screenshots/Samples.png
http://www.netstarter.com.au/images/pages/print/logo-samples.jpg
if you have ideas for a simple, clean, and "hip" logo for the youth program, pass it on it us.
draw a rough draft on paint, draw it on the piece of paper, write it on a napkin.
If you need some inspiration...
check these links out:
http://www.summitsoftlogodesign.com/graphics/screenshots/Samples.png
http://www.netstarter.com.au/images/pages/print/logo-samples.jpg
Monday, January 7, 2008
bad ideas....
first, sorry for the hiatus in posting....holidays were tough to find time to purge some thoughts...
BUT I AM BACK BABY!!!!
So here is the first post of 2008. And I don't really mean to be so pessimistic...
here is a list of "bad ideas"
- talking to your wife while sending e-mails (which means not really listening to said wife)
- facebook at work
- "reply to all"
- wii at 1 in the morning
- no locks on bathrooms doors
- waiting until the last minute
- coffee at 9 at night
- salads
- feeling good about beating your 2 year old in wii tennis
- expensive food at expensive sporting events
- H2's
- slavery
BUT I AM BACK BABY!!!!
So here is the first post of 2008. And I don't really mean to be so pessimistic...
here is a list of "bad ideas"
- talking to your wife while sending e-mails (which means not really listening to said wife)
- facebook at work
- "reply to all"
- wii at 1 in the morning
- no locks on bathrooms doors
- waiting until the last minute
- coffee at 9 at night
- salads
- feeling good about beating your 2 year old in wii tennis
- expensive food at expensive sporting events
- H2's
- slavery
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