is that actually I do blog. In my head. Almost every day. And that is the reason I don't blog. Because if I don't blog what I've already thought about blogging then I get too far behind and can't blog because I haven't blogged all my thought blogs and can't start a new blog with all the other thought blogs unfinished.
So there!
Friday, November 14, 2008
The end of the craziness
I'd like to say I've been so traumatized by the marathon that I can only now write about it...but that would only be to cover up what a horrible blogger I am :)
We did run (some of) and finished the Chicago Marathon in October. Managed to come in 29,500 and some odd (can you tell I wasn't to crazy about memorizing my place) out of 31,000 some odd finishers. Brian and I were together almost all of the time and crossed the finish line together. It got really hot towards the end...but perhaps that's because our time stretched out to 6 hours and 15 minutes..oh boy. We ran the first 14 miles, walked the next, ran about another mile, and mostly walked the rest. My left leg, knee, and hip kept cramping up whenever I'd try to run very much. We did make a good show and ran the last 1/4 mile :)
The WORST part was crossing the finish line and then having to walk yet ANOTHER mile to get to the meeting place, and then walk almost 2 miles back to the place we stayed. Yeah, I know, it was good for us to keep going....
So it's over. I'd hoped to do a little better...coming in 29 thousand and some doesn't do much for the ego :) But we did finish! Can't say we'll do it again.
Next summer we're contemplating hiking a fourteener (mountain that is over 14,000 feet high) and maybe hiking some of the continental divide trail.
We did run (some of) and finished the Chicago Marathon in October. Managed to come in 29,500 and some odd (can you tell I wasn't to crazy about memorizing my place) out of 31,000 some odd finishers. Brian and I were together almost all of the time and crossed the finish line together. It got really hot towards the end...but perhaps that's because our time stretched out to 6 hours and 15 minutes..oh boy. We ran the first 14 miles, walked the next, ran about another mile, and mostly walked the rest. My left leg, knee, and hip kept cramping up whenever I'd try to run very much. We did make a good show and ran the last 1/4 mile :)
The WORST part was crossing the finish line and then having to walk yet ANOTHER mile to get to the meeting place, and then walk almost 2 miles back to the place we stayed. Yeah, I know, it was good for us to keep going....
So it's over. I'd hoped to do a little better...coming in 29 thousand and some doesn't do much for the ego :) But we did finish! Can't say we'll do it again.
Next summer we're contemplating hiking a fourteener (mountain that is over 14,000 feet high) and maybe hiking some of the continental divide trail.
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Calling all Movers!
I am having a moving party on Saturday from 9am - 2pm. Everything (almost) is packed and ready to be loaded into our relo-cubes which will be arriving tomorrow (Friday). So bring your muscles and help me move my house into a couple little boxes! Don't feel strong? There's always cleaning and touch up painting to do! Pizza is on me (for lunch - not breakfast!)
My address is 7690 Butler Ct. - Check out google maps or mapquest for directions. Or give me a call 270-0538.
If we don't get done on Saturday (cause I have to quit early for a Kid Crossing/Fusion volunteer kick off) we'll finish up Sunday afternoon, so check in with me Sunday AM if you couldn't make it Saturday.
See ya soon!
My address is 7690 Butler Ct. - Check out google maps or mapquest for directions. Or give me a call 270-0538.
If we don't get done on Saturday (cause I have to quit early for a Kid Crossing/Fusion volunteer kick off) we'll finish up Sunday afternoon, so check in with me Sunday AM if you couldn't make it Saturday.
See ya soon!
My Last Official Sunday is 10/5
I'm pretty sure most everyone has heard by now, but I am moving to Colorado. My last Sunday and last official day of employment at Crossroads is this Sunday 10/5. If you're around this week take the trek to the Kid Crossing end and say "Hi" and "Goodbye". I hear there's gonna be cake!
Brian's been in Denver since Labor Day. So the kids and I are definitely ready to join him. We will head out either Tuesday or Wednesday and drive to Kansas (where my in-laws live). Just me, 2 kids, one dog, 4 cats and 14 hours...how exciting! We will spend a few days in KS (Topeka), and I will make a small side trip to Chicago to run the marathon leaving the kids with the grandparents. We will head to Denver the following Tues. or Wed.
Hopefully I'll have more time to blog after the move, so will try to keep you updated for as long as you care to follow!
Brian's been in Denver since Labor Day. So the kids and I are definitely ready to join him. We will head out either Tuesday or Wednesday and drive to Kansas (where my in-laws live). Just me, 2 kids, one dog, 4 cats and 14 hours...how exciting! We will spend a few days in KS (Topeka), and I will make a small side trip to Chicago to run the marathon leaving the kids with the grandparents. We will head to Denver the following Tues. or Wed.
Hopefully I'll have more time to blog after the move, so will try to keep you updated for as long as you care to follow!
Saturday, July 19, 2008
10K Kelly Carter Scholarship Run
Well, I survived my first official run. I think I like running by myself better than with a bunch of people. (not that I was with a bunch of people for long) That should make the Chicago Marathon interesting :)
It was hot and humid, but thankfully the sun wasn't out. My goal was not to be the last person to finish, and I made it - just barely. I think I was 3rd to last. However I did get a silver medal for my age group... Spiffy, huh? yeah, until you realize there was no bronze medal given out, hence there were only 2 people in my age group... :) Oh well. Not even sure what my time was. 64: something. Not bad for me.
Certainly makes one rethink a marathon though... What WAS I thinking?
It was hot and humid, but thankfully the sun wasn't out. My goal was not to be the last person to finish, and I made it - just barely. I think I was 3rd to last. However I did get a silver medal for my age group... Spiffy, huh? yeah, until you realize there was no bronze medal given out, hence there were only 2 people in my age group... :) Oh well. Not even sure what my time was. 64: something. Not bad for me.
Certainly makes one rethink a marathon though... What WAS I thinking?
Monday, June 23, 2008
7 miles of hills
This past Saturday (my birthday) was our first 7 mile run. Remember this is as far as I've ever run... I let Brian pick our route, 'cause he wanted to do something "different". Well, we did something DIFFERENT all right. We took a "lovely" route through the Irish Hills, of which I think we found a few of the biggest hills in SE Michigan. On top of that, Map My Run, told us a road went through when it was actually a dead end. Ended up only adding .5 miles, but it seemed like an extra 2 miles at least! All I've got to say, is I'm sure glad Chicago is flat!
Guess which one
So, last weekend 6/13 & 6/14, my director team and I (and our spouses) went to Liquid Leadership in Holland, MI. We had two hotel experiences. Can you guess which place we stayed?
Friday, June 13, 2008
Liquid part 1
Liquid has been awesome so far! We had a great afternoon and evening, and I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I was going to give a brief update on the notes...but left my notes in the car and I'm the kind of person who's chained to my written notes - not my memory!
BUT... Leadership is liquid. We have to continually fill ourselves up so we can pour it out. And we have to pour on those we lead in the way they will best get it, not in the way that's best for us. Craig talked about 6.5 types of people that you lead and how you can (or can't) pour into each type.
Lots of other stuff that I have in my notes but not in my brain at 10:30pm and some great things to think about AND a very interesting non-conference experience. But I'll write about that in the next day or two when I have my picture documentation up to date. It's quite hilarious :)
BUT... Leadership is liquid. We have to continually fill ourselves up so we can pour it out. And we have to pour on those we lead in the way they will best get it, not in the way that's best for us. Craig talked about 6.5 types of people that you lead and how you can (or can't) pour into each type.
Lots of other stuff that I have in my notes but not in my brain at 10:30pm and some great things to think about AND a very interesting non-conference experience. But I'll write about that in the next day or two when I have my picture documentation up to date. It's quite hilarious :)
Liquid Leadership
I'm off to the Liquid Leadership Conference with my directors and our spouses. It's done by Craig Jutila and his team at empoweringkids.net. I'm am very excited and looking forward to this time (today and tomorrow) to soak in some more fuel for myself and my team! I'll try to post some thoughts and ideas later today if our hotel has internet. (or maybe the church will). Anyway...It's off to Holland (Michigan) we go!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Practice #7
June 8
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Coaching leaders to realize and fulfill their shape and potential
Hebrews 10:24
Let us think about each other and help each other to show love and do good deeds.
Quote:
“A good leader takes people where they want to go and ought to be, but a great leader takes people where they don't want to go but ought to be.” unknown
How is your serving experience? Are you excited about the opportunities God will give you each week? Do you anticipate coming in on Sundays (or whatever the day of the week is that you serve)? Are you energized at the end of it?
As a Kid Crossing volunteer we want you to fulfill your shape and potential. When we say shape, we're basically talking about the way God wired you. Your Spiritual gifts, your heart, your abilities, your past experiences, and your experience. We believe that when you put all of those things together in your serving role, you'll be energized and empowered. And you'll be serving just where God wants you!
I once had a volunteer who wasn't sure that they would do very good working with kids. This individual wasn't sure what they could do to make a difference. So we talked and tried out a couple of things. We pushed the boundaries of her comfort zone a little bit. And you know what? This individual became a great Kid Crossing volunteer. She impacted many kids lives. Once we found the serving opportunity that fit her shape there was no stopping her.
My question for you this week, and as we go into this summer is are you using your full shape and potential? Are you excited and energized? If so, you are in a great spot! Keep serving God and changing lives! If not, talk with me or another KC Director. Let us help you find just the right spot to serve. When you are serving God by using your shape and fulfilling your potential, the eternal impact you will make will no no bounds!
Question for this week:
Am I using my shape and potential to change lives at Crossroads?
If I am, who can I lead to join me in changing kids lives? If not, who can I talk to so that I can use my shape and potential to change kids lives?
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Coaching leaders to realize and fulfill their shape and potential
Hebrews 10:24
Let us think about each other and help each other to show love and do good deeds.
Quote:
“A good leader takes people where they want to go and ought to be, but a great leader takes people where they don't want to go but ought to be.” unknown
How is your serving experience? Are you excited about the opportunities God will give you each week? Do you anticipate coming in on Sundays (or whatever the day of the week is that you serve)? Are you energized at the end of it?
As a Kid Crossing volunteer we want you to fulfill your shape and potential. When we say shape, we're basically talking about the way God wired you. Your Spiritual gifts, your heart, your abilities, your past experiences, and your experience. We believe that when you put all of those things together in your serving role, you'll be energized and empowered. And you'll be serving just where God wants you!
I once had a volunteer who wasn't sure that they would do very good working with kids. This individual wasn't sure what they could do to make a difference. So we talked and tried out a couple of things. We pushed the boundaries of her comfort zone a little bit. And you know what? This individual became a great Kid Crossing volunteer. She impacted many kids lives. Once we found the serving opportunity that fit her shape there was no stopping her.
My question for you this week, and as we go into this summer is are you using your full shape and potential? Are you excited and energized? If so, you are in a great spot! Keep serving God and changing lives! If not, talk with me or another KC Director. Let us help you find just the right spot to serve. When you are serving God by using your shape and fulfilling your potential, the eternal impact you will make will no no bounds!
Question for this week:
Am I using my shape and potential to change lives at Crossroads?
If I am, who can I lead to join me in changing kids lives? If not, who can I talk to so that I can use my shape and potential to change kids lives?
Friday, June 06, 2008
Vacation
My family and I spent the past week in Cape May, NJ, for a family wedding, and Hershey, PA, just for fun! Cape May was a beautiful town, and I could get use to living on the Ocean... We didn't spend near enough time there. But we did get to see and visit a slew of my relatives, which is always fun.
Then we headed to Hershey, PA for a couple of days, with my brother and nephew (3 1/2) and my parents. Hershey Park is one of our all time favorite amusement parks. I went there as a kid and we've continued the tradition every few years. With schools not officially out yet, it was a great time to go. We rode the "big" rides - the major roller coasters - early in the AM and then again in the evening, after the school groups had left. Micah, our 9 year old rode all 11 this year and could hardly be bothered with anything else! Even Hannah, 6, got the coaster bug, and the last half hour we were there she and I rode 2 coasters 4 times.
It was a great start to the summer, and now Hannah and Micah are enjoying Grandparent "camp" in Vermont for the rest of June!
Then we headed to Hershey, PA for a couple of days, with my brother and nephew (3 1/2) and my parents. Hershey Park is one of our all time favorite amusement parks. I went there as a kid and we've continued the tradition every few years. With schools not officially out yet, it was a great time to go. We rode the "big" rides - the major roller coasters - early in the AM and then again in the evening, after the school groups had left. Micah, our 9 year old rode all 11 this year and could hardly be bothered with anything else! Even Hannah, 6, got the coaster bug, and the last half hour we were there she and I rode 2 coasters 4 times.
It was a great start to the summer, and now Hannah and Micah are enjoying Grandparent "camp" in Vermont for the rest of June!
Running on the beach
has got to be my all time favorite run so far! Brian and I ran on the beach at Cape May, NJ, around 7:30 am Saturday. The morning was cool, the tide was out, and the sky was blue. What a gorgeous morning. We ran about 4 miles, mostly down by the water where the sand was packed. The beach was mostly empty except for a few fisherman (fishing for Sharks, one told me - and we saw the proof up on the beach) and a few walkers.
Oh yeah, did I mention we ran barefoot! ? Those who know me know this is my preferred foot attire... around the house, around the yard, around the office... It was awesome! I felt better after that run than I had for a couple of weeks.
Oh yeah, did I mention we ran barefoot! ? Those who know me know this is my preferred foot attire... around the house, around the yard, around the office... It was awesome! I felt better after that run than I had for a couple of weeks.
Practice #6
June 1
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Investing in others through open and honest relationships
Pilippians 2:4
Do not be interested only in your own life, but be interested in the lives of others.
Quote:
“One thing for sure, if you see a turtle on top of a fence post you know he had help getting there.” unknown
One of our values in Kid Crossing is building relationships. We can't go through life on our own. Crossroads is not a small church where everyone knows everything about everyone else. Relationships very rarely just happen on their own. We have to intentionally build relationships for both kids and adults. We have to invest time and effort into building relationships.
One way to get connected and invest in others is through your serving team and in your small group. Do you know the other people you serve with? Do they know you? We always have places to be and things to do, but take a few minutes each week to chat with those you serve. Get to know them. It will make a difference in your serving experience and maybe even in your life. If you are not in a small group, find one or start one. Maybe you'll even want to start one with the people you serve with. Being part of a serving team or a small group means you'll have people around you to help you celebrate the good times and get through the tough times. If you'd like help getting hooked up in a small group talk to Melonie, Shari, or Lee and we'd be happy to help you find a place to plug in.
Investing in kids is one of the main reasons you are here! Investing through relationships means a lot more than just hanging out with them on Sunday morning. Connect with them through the week. Find out what's going on in their lives. Pray for them. Share celebrations and disappointments with them. We actually have plans to help you begin to intentionally build relationships with your kids, beginning with our K-5 small group shepherds. We're really excited about this, and you'll be hearing more about it in the upcoming weeks. We think it will make a huge difference for some of you, and the ability you will have to connect with your kids!
For some of you investing in others comes naturally, for others it will mean extra effort. But in the end, it will be more than worth it!
Question for this week:
Who am I investing in and building open, honest relationships with?
How can I invest in the lives of the kids I serve this summer, other than during small group time on Sunday Mornings?
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Investing in others through open and honest relationships
Pilippians 2:4
Do not be interested only in your own life, but be interested in the lives of others.
Quote:
“One thing for sure, if you see a turtle on top of a fence post you know he had help getting there.” unknown
One of our values in Kid Crossing is building relationships. We can't go through life on our own. Crossroads is not a small church where everyone knows everything about everyone else. Relationships very rarely just happen on their own. We have to intentionally build relationships for both kids and adults. We have to invest time and effort into building relationships.
One way to get connected and invest in others is through your serving team and in your small group. Do you know the other people you serve with? Do they know you? We always have places to be and things to do, but take a few minutes each week to chat with those you serve. Get to know them. It will make a difference in your serving experience and maybe even in your life. If you are not in a small group, find one or start one. Maybe you'll even want to start one with the people you serve with. Being part of a serving team or a small group means you'll have people around you to help you celebrate the good times and get through the tough times. If you'd like help getting hooked up in a small group talk to Melonie, Shari, or Lee and we'd be happy to help you find a place to plug in.
Investing in kids is one of the main reasons you are here! Investing through relationships means a lot more than just hanging out with them on Sunday morning. Connect with them through the week. Find out what's going on in their lives. Pray for them. Share celebrations and disappointments with them. We actually have plans to help you begin to intentionally build relationships with your kids, beginning with our K-5 small group shepherds. We're really excited about this, and you'll be hearing more about it in the upcoming weeks. We think it will make a huge difference for some of you, and the ability you will have to connect with your kids!
For some of you investing in others comes naturally, for others it will mean extra effort. But in the end, it will be more than worth it!
Question for this week:
Who am I investing in and building open, honest relationships with?
How can I invest in the lives of the kids I serve this summer, other than during small group time on Sunday Mornings?
Practice #5
May 25
Note: Going to Reston and then getting ready to leave for Vacation, really messed up my brain. Trying to catch up again!
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Trusting God for the impossible, the unknown, and the unseen
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust the Lord with all your heart, and don't depend on your own understanding. Remember the Lord in all you do, and he will give you success.
Quote:
“Act as though it were impossible to fail.” Winston Churchill
I'm reading a book called “In a Pit with a Lion on a Snow Day” by Mark Batterson. It's based on the acts of a dude named Benaiah, in 2 Samuel 23:20-21. Basically he kileed to of Moabs mightiest warriors, fought and killed a lion in a pit, on a snowy day, and killed an Egyptian warrior when the warrior had a spear and Benaiah only had a club. Benaiah goes on to become the captain of David's army. A pretty impressive story. But the point the author is making is that we have to trust God enough to face the impossible, the unknown, and the unseen. Because those experiences just might prepare us for something bigger and better that God has in mind. Benaiah acted like it was impossible to fail and he succeeded
Thankfully I don't think any of us are going to run into angry warriors, or lions in a pit, on a snow day. But we do face challenges. You face challenges at home, at work, and in serving at Crossroads. The question is will you run away from the challenges, or will you trust God completely, for the impossible, the unknown, and the unseen?
Proverbs 3:5-6 has been my favorite Bible verse for many years. It's so easy to start relying on ourselves, on what we know, and what we can control. But it also then becomes so easy to avoid our challenges and opportunities. The only way we can truly act as though it's impossible to fail is by completely trusting God. The only way we'll win our battles with lions, in pits, on snow days, is by letting God lead and guide us. Because if I went on my own understanding, I wouldn't be getting anywhere near that pit or the lion!
Question for this week:
Am I trusting God and letting Him lead my life?
What are my lions that I need to conquer and with God's help act as though it's impossible to fail?
Note: Going to Reston and then getting ready to leave for Vacation, really messed up my brain. Trying to catch up again!
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Trusting God for the impossible, the unknown, and the unseen
Proverbs 3:5-6
Trust the Lord with all your heart, and don't depend on your own understanding. Remember the Lord in all you do, and he will give you success.
Quote:
“Act as though it were impossible to fail.” Winston Churchill
I'm reading a book called “In a Pit with a Lion on a Snow Day” by Mark Batterson. It's based on the acts of a dude named Benaiah, in 2 Samuel 23:20-21. Basically he kileed to of Moabs mightiest warriors, fought and killed a lion in a pit, on a snowy day, and killed an Egyptian warrior when the warrior had a spear and Benaiah only had a club. Benaiah goes on to become the captain of David's army. A pretty impressive story. But the point the author is making is that we have to trust God enough to face the impossible, the unknown, and the unseen. Because those experiences just might prepare us for something bigger and better that God has in mind. Benaiah acted like it was impossible to fail and he succeeded
Thankfully I don't think any of us are going to run into angry warriors, or lions in a pit, on a snow day. But we do face challenges. You face challenges at home, at work, and in serving at Crossroads. The question is will you run away from the challenges, or will you trust God completely, for the impossible, the unknown, and the unseen?
Proverbs 3:5-6 has been my favorite Bible verse for many years. It's so easy to start relying on ourselves, on what we know, and what we can control. But it also then becomes so easy to avoid our challenges and opportunities. The only way we can truly act as though it's impossible to fail is by completely trusting God. The only way we'll win our battles with lions, in pits, on snow days, is by letting God lead and guide us. Because if I went on my own understanding, I wouldn't be getting anywhere near that pit or the lion!
Question for this week:
Am I trusting God and letting Him lead my life?
What are my lions that I need to conquer and with God's help act as though it's impossible to fail?
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Running this AM
was a very interesting experience. I pretty much ran from our motel, around the perimeter of downtown Reston, and back. Only about 3 miles total. It's AMAZING to me how many people live within and around that 3 miles. Apartments upon apartments, upon condos, upon townhouses.... and I barely wound around any of the side streets that are filled with housing.
One could live around here and never need to own a car. It's pretty incredible. I think it would be fun to live in a city...at least for a little while.
It's a beautiful morning. I even found a running "super highway"... at the end of my run, so didn't follow it very far. But there were quite a few people going up and down it.
I'm finally looking forward to today. I'm ready to learn how to continue to grow as a leader.
One could live around here and never need to own a car. It's pretty incredible. I think it would be fun to live in a city...at least for a little while.
It's a beautiful morning. I even found a running "super highway"... at the end of my run, so didn't follow it very far. But there were quite a few people going up and down it.
I'm finally looking forward to today. I'm ready to learn how to continue to grow as a leader.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
In Reston, VA
We made it to Reston, VA. There is some beautiful country between MI and here. We spent all day in a van, and it's nice to be out of it! Tonight we walked around downtown Reston. A very cool place. Having lived in the country, basically all of my life, I'm always fascinated with cities. It was cold and rainy when we got here, but it actually turned out pretty nice. We discovered we can just walk from our hotel to the Hyatt, downtown, where the Whiteboard Conference will be. It should be a good day tomorrow.
Stress - I think I need a vacation!
This is the best Stress test I've seen! I received this in an email:
STRESS
I am not sure exactly how this works, but this is amazingly accurate.
The picture below has 2 identical dolphins in it. It was used in a
case study on stress levels at the Mayo Clinic and later at
Fletcher Medical Center in Burlington.
Look at both dolphins jumping out of the water. The dolphins are identical. A closely monitored, scientific study revealed that, in spite of the fact that the dolphins are identical, a person under stress will find many differences between the two dolphins.
The more differences a person finds, the more stress that person is experiencing..
Look at the photograph and if you find more than one or two differences you may need to take a vacation.
STRESS
I am not sure exactly how this works, but this is amazingly accurate.
The picture below has 2 identical dolphins in it. It was used in a
case study on stress levels at the Mayo Clinic and later at
Fletcher Medical Center in Burlington.
Look at both dolphins jumping out of the water. The dolphins are identical. A closely monitored, scientific study revealed that, in spite of the fact that the dolphins are identical, a person under stress will find many differences between the two dolphins.
The more differences a person finds, the more stress that person is experiencing..
Look at the photograph and if you find more than one or two differences you may need to take a vacation.
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Heading to the Whiteboard Conference
I am getting ready to head to the Whiteboard Conference in Reston, VA, with some of the other C3 staff in the AM. It's going to be a flying trip. Down, back, plus conference in less than 48 hours.
The conference itself could be very interesting. Eight church leaders each get 1/2 hour to talk about a leadership principle. I'll let you know what I think. You can check it out here.
The conference itself could be very interesting. Eight church leaders each get 1/2 hour to talk about a leadership principle. I'll let you know what I think. You can check it out here.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Training - Week 9
In case you can't believe it, I'm still training for the Chicago Marathon! (it's now only 5 months away) I'm in week 9 of the training program. The furtherest I've run at one time so far is 5 miles, which is a long way from 26.2 miles, but a lot further than I've ever run before. And I'm running so far...no walking. I'm not going to be breaking any speed records, though! Next week will be my last runs in the two mile range. From there on it only goes up. When June hits the mileage starts to pick up faster... Stay tuned :)
Be a Kool Aide this Summer
Be a Kool Aide
in Kid Crossing
No experience necessary
Lend a helping hand
Sundays this Summer: June, July, August
1 time, once a month, or every week
0-2 year olds, 3 years – PreK, and Kindergarten – Grade 5
Change lives, have fun, make a difference in Crossroads families, serve God
Students AND adults (not just parents)
Sign up for a date and time at the Kool Aide Stands at Crossroads
located in the Grand Lobby, across from the 0-2 area, and at the elementary entrance
in Kid Crossing
No experience necessary
Lend a helping hand
Sundays this Summer: June, July, August
1 time, once a month, or every week
0-2 year olds, 3 years – PreK, and Kindergarten – Grade 5
Change lives, have fun, make a difference in Crossroads families, serve God
Students AND adults (not just parents)
Sign up for a date and time at the Kool Aide Stands at Crossroads
located in the Grand Lobby, across from the 0-2 area, and at the elementary entrance
Practice #4 - May 18
May 18, 2008
V.I.P.
(Vision. Information. Prayer.)
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Creating an exciting, fun learning environment with excellence
Mark 2:22
No one ever pours new wine into old leather bags. Otherwise, the new wine will break the bags, and the win will be ruined along with the bags. But new wine should be put into new leather bags.
Quote:
“If you want to succeed, you should strike out on new paths rather than travel the worn paths of accepted success.” John D. Rockefeller Jr.
Create an exciting, fun learning environment:
Kids want fun and excitement, but you know what? So do adults! We're really the same. Have you ever sat through a boring meeting, lecture, or presentation? How much did you learn? If you're like me you zoned out, planned the rest of your day, or thought about something that was much more interesting. Now think about something you did that was fun and exciting? Where was your attention? In your planner or email? Or was it focused on what was happening?
We have got to create exciting and fun learning environments for our kids. What we have to teach these kids is so incredibly important that we don't want to make it dull and boring. We are impacting their futures and their eternities! If you are having fun and feeling excited about your serving experience, than keep up the great work. If you're not, talk to us, let's work together to better create a fun and exciting environment OR help you find a different place that is fun and exciting for you. Because it begins with you. If you are having fun, the kids will too!
With Excellence:
My greatest desire for each of you in your volunteer roles is that you fulfill your role with excellence. Excellence means doing the best you can do. It does not mean perfection. None of us are perfect, so that's out of the question. But God deserves our best. Our kids deserve our best. Let's give them our best! Whether you're setting up, presenting the lesson, working with a small group, or doing potty breaks, do it with Excellence and watch how lives are changed!
Question for this week:
Are you creating an exciting, fun learning environment with EXCELLENCE? If not, what do we need to change?
V.I.P.
(Vision. Information. Prayer.)
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Creating an exciting, fun learning environment with excellence
Mark 2:22
No one ever pours new wine into old leather bags. Otherwise, the new wine will break the bags, and the win will be ruined along with the bags. But new wine should be put into new leather bags.
Quote:
“If you want to succeed, you should strike out on new paths rather than travel the worn paths of accepted success.” John D. Rockefeller Jr.
Create an exciting, fun learning environment:
Kids want fun and excitement, but you know what? So do adults! We're really the same. Have you ever sat through a boring meeting, lecture, or presentation? How much did you learn? If you're like me you zoned out, planned the rest of your day, or thought about something that was much more interesting. Now think about something you did that was fun and exciting? Where was your attention? In your planner or email? Or was it focused on what was happening?
We have got to create exciting and fun learning environments for our kids. What we have to teach these kids is so incredibly important that we don't want to make it dull and boring. We are impacting their futures and their eternities! If you are having fun and feeling excited about your serving experience, than keep up the great work. If you're not, talk to us, let's work together to better create a fun and exciting environment OR help you find a different place that is fun and exciting for you. Because it begins with you. If you are having fun, the kids will too!
With Excellence:
My greatest desire for each of you in your volunteer roles is that you fulfill your role with excellence. Excellence means doing the best you can do. It does not mean perfection. None of us are perfect, so that's out of the question. But God deserves our best. Our kids deserve our best. Let's give them our best! Whether you're setting up, presenting the lesson, working with a small group, or doing potty breaks, do it with Excellence and watch how lives are changed!
Question for this week:
Are you creating an exciting, fun learning environment with EXCELLENCE? If not, what do we need to change?
Practice #3 - May 11
May 11, 2008
V.I.P.
(Vision. Information. Prayer.)
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Affirming, honoring, and valuing others through authentic leadership.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another, and build up one another, just as you also are doing
I bet it was amazing to be one of the twelve disciples. Talk about authentic leadership! Jesus was the BEST at affirming, honoring and valuing His team. He praised them and He coached them. He even had to reprimand them on occasion. The disciples respected Him and loved Him because of the leader he was.
My mom also makes me think of authentic leadership. I don't think there has ever been anyone as affirming, honoring, and valuing to me as my mom. Mom's are like that. Mom's are great leaders.
In Kid Crossing, the Director Team and I value our volunteers more than we can ever express. There is no way we could begin to change and impact kids' and families' lives without you guys. It is our goal to affirm and value you. We will do our best to provide you with authentic leadership; to let you know when you're doing something well, and to coach you in ways you can do your job even better.
You are also leaders. Many of you directly lead groups of kids. Just like the Bible verse today says, you need to encourage and build up the kids you influence. Let them know you value them. Affirm them on Sundays, but also throughout the week. Maybe it's a phone call, an email, or a note in the mail. Kids love to get stuff like that.
Make it your goal this week to affirm, value, and honor each person you come in contact with this week. Whether it's your child, or the cashier at Meijer, show them authentic leadership. You will be leading, even if it's only to get the cashier to smile !
Question for this week:
How will you affirm, value and honor the kids you interact with, or the people who look to you as a leader?
Quote:
“Definition of an arch: Two weaknesses leaning against each other to make a strength” - Leonardo Divinci
V.I.P.
(Vision. Information. Prayer.)
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Affirming, honoring, and valuing others through authentic leadership.
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another, and build up one another, just as you also are doing
I bet it was amazing to be one of the twelve disciples. Talk about authentic leadership! Jesus was the BEST at affirming, honoring and valuing His team. He praised them and He coached them. He even had to reprimand them on occasion. The disciples respected Him and loved Him because of the leader he was.
My mom also makes me think of authentic leadership. I don't think there has ever been anyone as affirming, honoring, and valuing to me as my mom. Mom's are like that. Mom's are great leaders.
In Kid Crossing, the Director Team and I value our volunteers more than we can ever express. There is no way we could begin to change and impact kids' and families' lives without you guys. It is our goal to affirm and value you. We will do our best to provide you with authentic leadership; to let you know when you're doing something well, and to coach you in ways you can do your job even better.
You are also leaders. Many of you directly lead groups of kids. Just like the Bible verse today says, you need to encourage and build up the kids you influence. Let them know you value them. Affirm them on Sundays, but also throughout the week. Maybe it's a phone call, an email, or a note in the mail. Kids love to get stuff like that.
Make it your goal this week to affirm, value, and honor each person you come in contact with this week. Whether it's your child, or the cashier at Meijer, show them authentic leadership. You will be leading, even if it's only to get the cashier to smile !
Question for this week:
How will you affirm, value and honor the kids you interact with, or the people who look to you as a leader?
Quote:
“Definition of an arch: Two weaknesses leaning against each other to make a strength” - Leonardo Divinci
Practice #2 - May 4
May 4, 2008
V.I.P.
(Vision. Information. Prayer.)
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Risking failure through innovation and reinvention of programs.
Joshua 1:9
I have commanded you, 'Be strong and courageous! Don't tremble or be terrified, because the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.'
Thomas Edison, great inventor, set out to create an electric light. The first one he made didn't work. Neither did the second or the tenth, or the 100th or even the 1000th. But Edison didn't give up. He was willing to risk failure because he knew that eventually he would find the right combination of materials that would succeed, and that when he did succeed it would be a HUGE success. Each time his light bulb didn't work, he didn't look at it as a failure, he looked as it as a learning process. He now knew what wouldn't work! Each time he was one step closer to success. Finally, somewhere around the 10,000th time, he succeeded. And can you imagine how much greater his victory and his excitement then, than if it had worked the 2nd or 3rd time?
Edison wasn't afraid to risk failure and to reinvent and rework what he was doing until he got it right! He was just making light. How much more should we be willing to risk failure and keep working and reinventing when what we're working on, kids and families lives, their eternities are at stake?
The way we do things at Kid Crossing and at Crossroads rarely stays the same for very long. The reason is that we want to find the very best way to change lives for eternity. As we bring this school year to a close, and look towards the summer and next school year, we will be reinventing some aspects of what we do. Every time we do that we risk failure, but every time we fail, we can look at it as one step closer to achieving the ultimate success! Risking failure isn't easy. I HATE to fail! But the victory of success when we finally succeed makes taking that risk totally worth it!
Question for this week:
What are you willing to Risk failing at in order to make what you're doing better:
At church?
At home?
At work?
Quote:
“Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much because they live in that gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.” - Theodore Roosevelt
V.I.P.
(Vision. Information. Prayer.)
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Risking failure through innovation and reinvention of programs.
Joshua 1:9
I have commanded you, 'Be strong and courageous! Don't tremble or be terrified, because the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.'
Thomas Edison, great inventor, set out to create an electric light. The first one he made didn't work. Neither did the second or the tenth, or the 100th or even the 1000th. But Edison didn't give up. He was willing to risk failure because he knew that eventually he would find the right combination of materials that would succeed, and that when he did succeed it would be a HUGE success. Each time his light bulb didn't work, he didn't look at it as a failure, he looked as it as a learning process. He now knew what wouldn't work! Each time he was one step closer to success. Finally, somewhere around the 10,000th time, he succeeded. And can you imagine how much greater his victory and his excitement then, than if it had worked the 2nd or 3rd time?
Edison wasn't afraid to risk failure and to reinvent and rework what he was doing until he got it right! He was just making light. How much more should we be willing to risk failure and keep working and reinventing when what we're working on, kids and families lives, their eternities are at stake?
The way we do things at Kid Crossing and at Crossroads rarely stays the same for very long. The reason is that we want to find the very best way to change lives for eternity. As we bring this school year to a close, and look towards the summer and next school year, we will be reinventing some aspects of what we do. Every time we do that we risk failure, but every time we fail, we can look at it as one step closer to achieving the ultimate success! Risking failure isn't easy. I HATE to fail! But the victory of success when we finally succeed makes taking that risk totally worth it!
Question for this week:
What are you willing to Risk failing at in order to make what you're doing better:
At church?
At home?
At work?
Quote:
“Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checkered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much because they live in that gray twilight that knows neither victory nor defeat.” - Theodore Roosevelt
Practice #1 - April 27
April 27, 2008
V.I.P.
(Vision. Information. Prayer.)
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Protecting children with an uncompromising safety process.
Matthew 18:6
If one of these little children believes in me and someone causes that child to sin, then it will be very bad for that person. It would be better for him to have a large stone tied around his neck and be drowned in the sea.
In Kid Crossing we want kids to learn about Jesus, we want them to become Forever Friends with Him, and we want them to grow in their relationship with Him. But we want this all to happen while they are safe. Safety is a key concern for families. Safety covers a huge area in Kid Crossing. From check out, to bathrooms, to who's in your area, our policies are mainly developed around keeping both you and our kids safe.
I recently met with a children's ministry director from another church. One Sunday, not too long ago, she had one girl who passed out cold in the hallway. While people were around trying to help this girl, someone else came up and told this Director that a 2 year old had just had a seizure. After a lot of running, parents were called, 911 was called, and everything turned out OK in the end. But that conversation put things like two bathroom “accidents” in one area, into perspective for me. And helped to remind me that we've got some great systems in place to keep our kids safe and to help us when we have emergencies. We have a safety team and we have radios.
But that's just one way we keep our kids safe. We do it through background checks on volunteers, by checking out every child, no matter who they belong to, by asking strangers in our areas if we can help them, and by not giving out any information about a child to anyone. Obviously, God wants us to keep our kids safe. As we look at the Bible verse today, we see Jesus uses some pretty strong language about those who don't keep kids safe. Our systems and our kids safety is only as good as what we make it and how we work together to follow our policies. Thanks for the great job you doing caring for our kids and keeping them safe! Keep it up!
Question for this week:
Am I doing all I can in my volunteer role to Protect kids with uncompromising safety?
Quote:
“In God we trust, all others must be screened.”
V.I.P.
(Vision. Information. Prayer.)
P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E. Definition: A custom or habit of doing something.
Protecting children with an uncompromising safety process.
Matthew 18:6
If one of these little children believes in me and someone causes that child to sin, then it will be very bad for that person. It would be better for him to have a large stone tied around his neck and be drowned in the sea.
In Kid Crossing we want kids to learn about Jesus, we want them to become Forever Friends with Him, and we want them to grow in their relationship with Him. But we want this all to happen while they are safe. Safety is a key concern for families. Safety covers a huge area in Kid Crossing. From check out, to bathrooms, to who's in your area, our policies are mainly developed around keeping both you and our kids safe.
I recently met with a children's ministry director from another church. One Sunday, not too long ago, she had one girl who passed out cold in the hallway. While people were around trying to help this girl, someone else came up and told this Director that a 2 year old had just had a seizure. After a lot of running, parents were called, 911 was called, and everything turned out OK in the end. But that conversation put things like two bathroom “accidents” in one area, into perspective for me. And helped to remind me that we've got some great systems in place to keep our kids safe and to help us when we have emergencies. We have a safety team and we have radios.
But that's just one way we keep our kids safe. We do it through background checks on volunteers, by checking out every child, no matter who they belong to, by asking strangers in our areas if we can help them, and by not giving out any information about a child to anyone. Obviously, God wants us to keep our kids safe. As we look at the Bible verse today, we see Jesus uses some pretty strong language about those who don't keep kids safe. Our systems and our kids safety is only as good as what we make it and how we work together to follow our policies. Thanks for the great job you doing caring for our kids and keeping them safe! Keep it up!
Question for this week:
Am I doing all I can in my volunteer role to Protect kids with uncompromising safety?
Quote:
“In God we trust, all others must be screened.”
V.I.P. time
We, the Kid Crossing directors, finally decided on a name for our Sunday morning gathering time. Actually we're using a name I learned from Promiseland at Willow Creek Community Church in Chicago. We're calling it V.I.P. time. One, because our volunteers ARE very important people. And two, because we giving Vision (V), Information (I), and Prayer (P) during that time.
Three weeks ago we started looking at volunteer P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E.s. These are included in the Kid Crossing volunteer handbook. I got these from Craig Jutila, and Saddelback's Children's Ministry. I will post them here as we add to them each week. The actual practice, Bible verse, and quote come from material from Saddleback. The random thoughts on each section are mine.
Three weeks ago we started looking at volunteer P.R.A.C.T.I.C.E.s. These are included in the Kid Crossing volunteer handbook. I got these from Craig Jutila, and Saddelback's Children's Ministry. I will post them here as we add to them each week. The actual practice, Bible verse, and quote come from material from Saddleback. The random thoughts on each section are mine.
Off the blog wagon
I fell off the blog wagon yet again :) So, if you're one of the two people who have mentioned it in the last two months, the following posts should make up for it :) There's always lots of stuff going on in Kid Crossing and in my life! Maybe that's why I keep forgetting to blog. Oh well... Here's yet another try.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Volunteer Thought for March 16
March 16, 2008
Ephesians 3:20
“Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.”
More than we would ever dare to ask or hope
This is the BIG statement in this verse for me. Just imagine that God promises to do infinitely more than we could or even would ask or hope! That's amazing! As we learn in preschool, we know we can trust what the Bible says because the Bible is always true. So, we know that God can do more than we could ask or hope.
The question becomes, how much do you dare? Do you only dare to ask or hope for a little? Or do you dare to ask or hope for a lot? Because whichever it is, God will do more. So, do we limit what God will do for us by only asking and hoping for a little?
My challenge for us this week is to dare to ask and hope for something BIG! Then we can be amazed at how God uses His power in us to do infinitely more!
Questions to ponder this week
What will you dare to ask or hope for this week...
...personally?
...in Kid Crossing and Crossroads?
Pray
This week as you pray, dare to ask God for something BIG, and then ask Him to use His power in you to do infinitely more.
Dear God,
It's amazing that you are willing to let your mighty power work within us. Help us this week to use your power so that we can do more than we could ask or hope in our lives and the lives of those we impact. Amen.
Next week
Easter Services – Gathering times will be Saturday 3:40 pm and 5:10 pm and Sunday at 9:10 am and 10:40 am.
Policy of the week:
Identification and Uncompromising Safety
For safety purposes we do not permit people to wander around the children’s areas unattended. We depend on you to assist us in helping to make Kid Crossing a safe environment for all our children.
Each volunteer in KC is required to wear their identification tag to show they are authorized volunteers.
If someone enters your area and says they are a parent or are from another church and “just want to look around.” Please direct them to a check-in kiosk to get a visitor tag.
Do not allow anyone without proper ID in your area. If you have questions about someone entering your area, contact someone from the KC leadership team.
Here are some things going on this week to be aware of...
This Sunday (Today), March 16, at 3 p.m. will be the Egg Stuffing for the Egg Hunt. If you've never participated in one of these - YOU HAVE TO COME! It's lots of fun! Takes place in the Grand Lobby
The Cruisers will be having a meeting in the Carousel Room directly following the 3rd experience in the Carousel Room (should we get any questions about that).
Passion and Prayer will be next Wednesday, March 19, in the Auditorium. We still have tickets left over and this will be the last Sunday for them.
Flashlight Egg Hunt will be held on the grounds of LCS at 8 p.m. on Friday, March 21. We do encourage people to get to the Hunt at 7 p.m. for registration.
Easter worship experience times: No Kid Fusion Easter weekend
·Saturday, March 22, 4 & 5:30 p.m.
· Sunday, March 23, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.
C.L.A.S.S. 101, 201 & 301 will be offered again on Sunday, April 20, from 3-7:30 p.m. Sign-up's for CLASS will begin on Sunday, March 30. Sign-up sheets are available at the What's Happening table in the Grand Lobby. Note: 401 will NOT be offered this go round.
Celebrate Recovery will be hosting an Open House on Wednesday, April 23 at 6:30 p.m. This will be for anyone who wants to check out what Celebrate Recovery is all about.
The next annual Blessing of the Bikes will take place on Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on the grounds of the CFC. More information is available at the What's Happening table in the Grand Lobby.
Women Who Worship will be offering another Extension Class called, He Speaks To Me, which will begin on Wednesday, May 14, 2008. Class will be from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for 6 weeks. Registration for this class will begin on Sunday, April 27. Once again, they will have the first table located in the Grand Lobby to promote this class. WHC volunteers will be handling registrations and money collection.
Kid Fusion Auditions will be Saturday evening, April 12. Know anyone who loves to have fun, love the spot light, or loves to be a part of changing families lives? Contact Shari Glass at 270-0538 or shari@ilovemychurch.org for more information. Auditions are open to anyone from 6th grade to 192!
Ephesians 3:20
“Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.”
More than we would ever dare to ask or hope
This is the BIG statement in this verse for me. Just imagine that God promises to do infinitely more than we could or even would ask or hope! That's amazing! As we learn in preschool, we know we can trust what the Bible says because the Bible is always true. So, we know that God can do more than we could ask or hope.
The question becomes, how much do you dare? Do you only dare to ask or hope for a little? Or do you dare to ask or hope for a lot? Because whichever it is, God will do more. So, do we limit what God will do for us by only asking and hoping for a little?
My challenge for us this week is to dare to ask and hope for something BIG! Then we can be amazed at how God uses His power in us to do infinitely more!
Questions to ponder this week
What will you dare to ask or hope for this week...
...personally?
...in Kid Crossing and Crossroads?
Pray
This week as you pray, dare to ask God for something BIG, and then ask Him to use His power in you to do infinitely more.
Dear God,
It's amazing that you are willing to let your mighty power work within us. Help us this week to use your power so that we can do more than we could ask or hope in our lives and the lives of those we impact. Amen.
Next week
Easter Services – Gathering times will be Saturday 3:40 pm and 5:10 pm and Sunday at 9:10 am and 10:40 am.
Policy of the week:
Identification and Uncompromising Safety
For safety purposes we do not permit people to wander around the children’s areas unattended. We depend on you to assist us in helping to make Kid Crossing a safe environment for all our children.
Each volunteer in KC is required to wear their identification tag to show they are authorized volunteers.
If someone enters your area and says they are a parent or are from another church and “just want to look around.” Please direct them to a check-in kiosk to get a visitor tag.
Do not allow anyone without proper ID in your area. If you have questions about someone entering your area, contact someone from the KC leadership team.
Here are some things going on this week to be aware of...
This Sunday (Today), March 16, at 3 p.m. will be the Egg Stuffing for the Egg Hunt. If you've never participated in one of these - YOU HAVE TO COME! It's lots of fun! Takes place in the Grand Lobby
The Cruisers will be having a meeting in the Carousel Room directly following the 3rd experience in the Carousel Room (should we get any questions about that).
Passion and Prayer will be next Wednesday, March 19, in the Auditorium. We still have tickets left over and this will be the last Sunday for them.
Flashlight Egg Hunt will be held on the grounds of LCS at 8 p.m. on Friday, March 21. We do encourage people to get to the Hunt at 7 p.m. for registration.
Easter worship experience times: No Kid Fusion Easter weekend
·Saturday, March 22, 4 & 5:30 p.m.
· Sunday, March 23, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.
C.L.A.S.S. 101, 201 & 301 will be offered again on Sunday, April 20, from 3-7:30 p.m. Sign-up's for CLASS will begin on Sunday, March 30. Sign-up sheets are available at the What's Happening table in the Grand Lobby. Note: 401 will NOT be offered this go round.
Celebrate Recovery will be hosting an Open House on Wednesday, April 23 at 6:30 p.m. This will be for anyone who wants to check out what Celebrate Recovery is all about.
The next annual Blessing of the Bikes will take place on Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on the grounds of the CFC. More information is available at the What's Happening table in the Grand Lobby.
Women Who Worship will be offering another Extension Class called, He Speaks To Me, which will begin on Wednesday, May 14, 2008. Class will be from 6:30-8:30 p.m. for 6 weeks. Registration for this class will begin on Sunday, April 27. Once again, they will have the first table located in the Grand Lobby to promote this class. WHC volunteers will be handling registrations and money collection.
Kid Fusion Auditions will be Saturday evening, April 12. Know anyone who loves to have fun, love the spot light, or loves to be a part of changing families lives? Contact Shari Glass at 270-0538 or shari@ilovemychurch.org for more information. Auditions are open to anyone from 6th grade to 192!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Temporary Insanity, Peer Pressure, or Completely lost my Mind
I won't be at Crossroads on October 12. I won't be in Adrian on October 12. I won't even be in Michigan on October 12.
I will be in Chicago on October 12...doing a....marathon.
Yep, I caved in to the marathon bug that's subtly going around Crossroads. I'm not entirely sure WHY I did. It was something I never had any desire to do. Actually I pretty much told Brian he was not very intelligent for considering it. And now I'm doing it too. However the key word here is "doing" not "running". I'll probably run some and walk some. I have started on Hal Higdon's Novice Supreme training, though. We'll see how it goes.
I will be in Chicago on October 12...doing a....marathon.
Yep, I caved in to the marathon bug that's subtly going around Crossroads. I'm not entirely sure WHY I did. It was something I never had any desire to do. Actually I pretty much told Brian he was not very intelligent for considering it. And now I'm doing it too. However the key word here is "doing" not "running". I'll probably run some and walk some. I have started on Hal Higdon's Novice Supreme training, though. We'll see how it goes.
A Dad's Job
This afternoon at my son's violin lesson, he and his teacher, Pastor Doug, were talking about how Mom didn't think burping (Micah's an expert) was appropriate. Micah pointed out that Dad didn't have a problem with burping and Pastor Doug told Micah that was a "mom's job", to teach kids to be appropriate. After agreeing that that was indeed a "mom's job" Micah's next observation was: "And cooking is a dad's job."
So there you have it. All you mom's out there...cooking is a dad's job!
And for those of you who might not know...my husband does do all the cooking around here. There are a few unique trade offs (he's very um...healthy...) But all in all, it's a pretty good deal!
So there you have it. All you mom's out there...cooking is a dad's job!
And for those of you who might not know...my husband does do all the cooking around here. There are a few unique trade offs (he's very um...healthy...) But all in all, it's a pretty good deal!
We WILL hunt eggs!
Tomorrow night, Friday, we have our Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt with 66,000 eggs. Tomorrow night, we have a winter storm watch with up to 7 inches of snow possible (at least that's the last I heard). We will still be hunting eggs if it's at all possible! We talked at staff meeting about how God will give us just the weather He wants to be able to touch just the people he wants. So if God wants us to hunt eggs in the snow, that's what we will do :)
This could be our first actual egg HUNT. (Usually it's more like an egg gathering.) So whether you're a volunteer, or a family who's coming to the hunt, dress warm, wear your snow pants and put gloves and hats on your kids and come on out. Whether there's green (o.k. brown) grass or white snow, there will be eggs!
This could be our first actual egg HUNT. (Usually it's more like an egg gathering.) So whether you're a volunteer, or a family who's coming to the hunt, dress warm, wear your snow pants and put gloves and hats on your kids and come on out. Whether there's green (o.k. brown) grass or white snow, there will be eggs!
Thursday, March 13, 2008
3rd Grade Field Trip
I have the "opportunity" to visit the Natural Science Museum in Ann Arbor tomorrow with my son, his 3rd grade class, and probably the other 5 3rd grade classes as well! It should be an exciting day. I'm least looking forward to an hour long school bus ride one way...
I received this "opportunity" by winning the lottery. The "which parent gets to go on a school field trip" lottery. Honestly, I only submitted my entry into this lottery to make my son happy. Being one of those people who never win, I figured my chances of actually experiencing this "opportunity" would be slim. Imagine my surprise to find out I had the winning ticket.
But really, it should be a fun day to hang out with my son and his friends....if only it weren't for diesel fumes, bumpy rides, and more kids than should be legal in a fairly small space... :)
I received this "opportunity" by winning the lottery. The "which parent gets to go on a school field trip" lottery. Honestly, I only submitted my entry into this lottery to make my son happy. Being one of those people who never win, I figured my chances of actually experiencing this "opportunity" would be slim. Imagine my surprise to find out I had the winning ticket.
But really, it should be a fun day to hang out with my son and his friends....if only it weren't for diesel fumes, bumpy rides, and more kids than should be legal in a fairly small space... :)
April's Video Marathon
Last night we spent almost 4 hours shooting video for all things Kid Crossing: PreK; K-5; Kd Fusion; and even squeezed in an Egg Hunt commercial. All that and we only set off the alarm at the place we shoot at once! A giant thanks to everyone who acted and shot the video: Jay & Pete (our tech gurus), Angela, Jessica, Raymond, & Wendy - who looks absolutely fabulous in yellow, Becca, Eric, and Becky. Because of the extra time you all took last night, kids and families lives will be changed! Thanks a TON!!!!
Volunteer Thought for March 9
March 9, 2008
Ephesians 3:20
“Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.”
Infinitely More
“To infinity and beyond!” A common household phrase due to the blockbuster film Toy Story. But what does infinitely more really mean? It's a concept that we can barely begin to understand. One dictionary entry says Infinite is “Having no boundaries or limits. Immeasurably great or large; boundless.” Wow....!
Even Good ol' Buzz Lightyear couldn't even make it to infinity let alone beyond. Everything in our realm of existence is finite. A day, a book, a job, a really good cookie, even a life. So it's really hard for us to comprehend that God is infinite, never ending, immeasurably great. Then on top of that, to imagine that he can do infinitely more in us, can feel sort of impossible. (Even though we know nothing is impossible for God.)
Nevertheless, God promises to do infinitely more in us. That means he's going to do more than we can imagine. He's going to do something so big and so great in us that it can't be measured.
This week let's ask God to start his amazing, boundless work in us and through us, in our everyday lives and in our service to His kids.
Questions to ponder this week
What areas of your life do you need to stop controlling and let God's Power work within you?
How can you use God's power to impact and influence the lives of the kids and families you serve?
How can you make sure to let God's power work within you from the beginning (instead of trying to do it on your own first)?
Pray
Pray this week for God to use His power in you in all that you do and especially as you build into the lives of the kids you serve.
Dear God,
It's amazing that you are willing to let your mighty power work within us. Help us this week to use your power so that we can do more than we could ask or hope in our lives and the lives of those we impact. Amen.
Next week
Make sure you join us at 8:10 or 11:10 as we finish looking at Ephesians 3:20
Forget or lose this page? Find it on my blog each week: www.shariglass.com
Policy Reminder of the week:
Please wear your Kid Crossing Shirt!
It is VERY important that you wear your Kid Crossing Shirt while volunteering unless you are in costume as a specific character. ONE: It helps parents and kids easily identify who you are and for them to know who they can go to for questions. TWO: It is a safety precaution that identifies who you are. Now that we are not using lanyard, shirts are our only way to specifically identify who is a volunteer and who is not. THREE: It helps us to look good – we are all working together! (and there's a 4th one: you don't have to figure out what to wear in the morning!)
Upcoming Events:
Students will be attending Acquire The Fire at the Joe Louis Arena next weekend, March 7 & 8. All questions should be directed to the Student Table in the Grand Lobby.
Crossroads will be offering Passion and Prayer on Wednesday, March 19. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., we will be showing the movie, The Passion of the Christ. Following the movie, there will be a time for prayer together for the persons being invited to attend the Easter worship experiences the following weekend. Since seating in the auditorium is limited to 700, we will be giving out tickets for this event. Tickets will be available, beginning this Sunday, March 2, at our What's Happening Center.
Volunteer Expo will be set-up again this Sunday in the Grand Lobby.
Egg Hunt Egg Stuffing will take place on Sunday, March 16, at 3 p.m. at the CFC.
Flashlight Egg Hunt will be held on the grounds of LCS at 8 p.m. on Friday, March 21.
Our Easter worship experience times will be as follows: No Kid Fusion during this weekend.
Saturday, March 22, 4 & 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, March 23, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.
C.L.A.S.S. 101, 201 & 301 will be offered again on Sunday, April 20, from 3-7:30 p.m.
The next Night of Praise will be held on Wednesday, April 23, at 6:30 p.m.
The next annual Blessing of the Bikes will take place on Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on the grounds of the CFC
Other things to keep in mind...
Sunday, March 9, Daylight Savings Time begins. It's early this year. Don't forget to SPRING your clocks forward one hour on Saturday night, March 8.
Ephesians 3:20
“Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.”
Infinitely More
“To infinity and beyond!” A common household phrase due to the blockbuster film Toy Story. But what does infinitely more really mean? It's a concept that we can barely begin to understand. One dictionary entry says Infinite is “Having no boundaries or limits. Immeasurably great or large; boundless.” Wow....!
Even Good ol' Buzz Lightyear couldn't even make it to infinity let alone beyond. Everything in our realm of existence is finite. A day, a book, a job, a really good cookie, even a life. So it's really hard for us to comprehend that God is infinite, never ending, immeasurably great. Then on top of that, to imagine that he can do infinitely more in us, can feel sort of impossible. (Even though we know nothing is impossible for God.)
Nevertheless, God promises to do infinitely more in us. That means he's going to do more than we can imagine. He's going to do something so big and so great in us that it can't be measured.
This week let's ask God to start his amazing, boundless work in us and through us, in our everyday lives and in our service to His kids.
Questions to ponder this week
What areas of your life do you need to stop controlling and let God's Power work within you?
How can you use God's power to impact and influence the lives of the kids and families you serve?
How can you make sure to let God's power work within you from the beginning (instead of trying to do it on your own first)?
Pray
Pray this week for God to use His power in you in all that you do and especially as you build into the lives of the kids you serve.
Dear God,
It's amazing that you are willing to let your mighty power work within us. Help us this week to use your power so that we can do more than we could ask or hope in our lives and the lives of those we impact. Amen.
Next week
Make sure you join us at 8:10 or 11:10 as we finish looking at Ephesians 3:20
Forget or lose this page? Find it on my blog each week: www.shariglass.com
Policy Reminder of the week:
Please wear your Kid Crossing Shirt!
It is VERY important that you wear your Kid Crossing Shirt while volunteering unless you are in costume as a specific character. ONE: It helps parents and kids easily identify who you are and for them to know who they can go to for questions. TWO: It is a safety precaution that identifies who you are. Now that we are not using lanyard, shirts are our only way to specifically identify who is a volunteer and who is not. THREE: It helps us to look good – we are all working together! (and there's a 4th one: you don't have to figure out what to wear in the morning!)
Upcoming Events:
Students will be attending Acquire The Fire at the Joe Louis Arena next weekend, March 7 & 8. All questions should be directed to the Student Table in the Grand Lobby.
Crossroads will be offering Passion and Prayer on Wednesday, March 19. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., we will be showing the movie, The Passion of the Christ. Following the movie, there will be a time for prayer together for the persons being invited to attend the Easter worship experiences the following weekend. Since seating in the auditorium is limited to 700, we will be giving out tickets for this event. Tickets will be available, beginning this Sunday, March 2, at our What's Happening Center.
Volunteer Expo will be set-up again this Sunday in the Grand Lobby.
Egg Hunt Egg Stuffing will take place on Sunday, March 16, at 3 p.m. at the CFC.
Flashlight Egg Hunt will be held on the grounds of LCS at 8 p.m. on Friday, March 21.
Our Easter worship experience times will be as follows: No Kid Fusion during this weekend.
Saturday, March 22, 4 & 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, March 23, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.
C.L.A.S.S. 101, 201 & 301 will be offered again on Sunday, April 20, from 3-7:30 p.m.
The next Night of Praise will be held on Wednesday, April 23, at 6:30 p.m.
The next annual Blessing of the Bikes will take place on Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on the grounds of the CFC
Other things to keep in mind...
Sunday, March 9, Daylight Savings Time begins. It's early this year. Don't forget to SPRING your clocks forward one hour on Saturday night, March 8.
Friday, March 07, 2008
March 2 Volunteer thoughts and announcements
March 2, 2008
Ephesians 3:20
“Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.”
By His mighty power at work within us
Two amazing things about this phrase:
1)God WANTS to give us His power. God's WILLING to give us His power. That alone seems amazing.
2)We NEED God's power. We will never accomplish more than we would dare to ask or hope without God's power. How many times have you tried to do something by yourself, on your own,and it just doesn't work? Then you remember to ask God's guidance and help and the pieces just fall into place. It happens to me more often than I'd like to admit.
The Challenge
The reality is we can't do anything without God's power. We need God to work His power in us each week as we teach our kids about Him and build relationships with them. We need His power as we invite our neighbors or acquaintances to come with us to church. We need His power in every aspect of our lives as we live to bring honor and glory to Him. This week, instead of using God's power after we've failed at whatever we're doing our way, let's remember to let God's power work in us from the beginning. The beginning of each day, each project that we work on, and each person that we have contact with. I can't wait to see the amazing results of God's power in you!
Questions to ponder this week
What areas of your life do you need to stop controlling and let God's Power work within you?
How can you use God's power to impact and influence the lives of the kids and families you serve?
How can you make sure to let God's power work within you from the beginning (instead of trying to do it on your own first)?
Pray
Pray this week for God to use His power in you in all that you do and especially as you build into the lives of the kids you serve.
Dear God,
It's amazing that you are willing to let your mighty power work within us. Help us this week to use your power so that we can do more than we could ask or hope in our lives and the lives of those we impact. Amen.
Share Examples this week
How is God's Power working in You this week? Let us know so we can celebrate with you
email me: shari@ilovemychurch.org
call me: 517-270-0538
stop me in the hall: somewhere between the cafeteria, the gym, the library, or the auditorium :)
Forget or lose this page? Find it on my blog each week: www.shariglass.com
Policy Reminder of the week:
Please wear your Kid Crossing Shirt!
It is VERY important that you wear your Kid Crossing Shirt while volunteering unless you are in costume as a specific character. ONE: It helps parents and kids easily identify who you are and for them to know who they can go to for questions. TWO: It is a safety precaution that identifies who you are. Now that we are not using lanyard, shirts are our only way to specifically identify who is a volunteer and who is not. THREE: It helps us to look good – we are all working together! (and there's a 4th one: you don't have to figure out what to wear in the morning!)
Upcoming Events:
Students will be attending Acquire The Fire at the Joe Louis Arena next weekend, March 7 & 8. All questions should be directed to the Student Table in the Grand Lobby.
Crossroads will be offering Passion and Prayer on Wednesday, March 19. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., we will be showing the movie, The Passion of the Christ. Following the movie, there will be a time for prayer together for the persons being invited to attend the Easter worship experiences the following weekend. Since seating in the auditorium is limited to 700, we will be giving out tickets for this event. Tickets will be available, beginning this Sunday, March 2, at our What's Happening Center.
Volunteer Expo will be set-up again this Sunday in the Grand Lobby.
Egg Hunt Egg Stuffing will take place on Sunday, March 16, at 3 p.m. at the CFC.
Flashlight Egg Hunt will be held on the grounds of LCS at 8 p.m. on Friday, March 21.
Our Easter worship experience times will be as follows: No Kid Fusion during this weekend.
Saturday, March 22, 4 & 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, March 23, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.
C.L.A.S.S. 101, 201 & 301 will be offered again on Sunday, April 20, from 3-7:30 p.m.
The next annual Blessing of the Bikes will take place on Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on the grounds of the CFC
Other things to keep in mind...
Sunday, March 9, Daylight Savings Time begins. It's early this year. Don't forget to SPRING your clocks forward one hour on Saturday night, March 8.
Ephesians 3:20
“Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.”
By His mighty power at work within us
Two amazing things about this phrase:
1)God WANTS to give us His power. God's WILLING to give us His power. That alone seems amazing.
2)We NEED God's power. We will never accomplish more than we would dare to ask or hope without God's power. How many times have you tried to do something by yourself, on your own,and it just doesn't work? Then you remember to ask God's guidance and help and the pieces just fall into place. It happens to me more often than I'd like to admit.
The Challenge
The reality is we can't do anything without God's power. We need God to work His power in us each week as we teach our kids about Him and build relationships with them. We need His power as we invite our neighbors or acquaintances to come with us to church. We need His power in every aspect of our lives as we live to bring honor and glory to Him. This week, instead of using God's power after we've failed at whatever we're doing our way, let's remember to let God's power work in us from the beginning. The beginning of each day, each project that we work on, and each person that we have contact with. I can't wait to see the amazing results of God's power in you!
Questions to ponder this week
What areas of your life do you need to stop controlling and let God's Power work within you?
How can you use God's power to impact and influence the lives of the kids and families you serve?
How can you make sure to let God's power work within you from the beginning (instead of trying to do it on your own first)?
Pray
Pray this week for God to use His power in you in all that you do and especially as you build into the lives of the kids you serve.
Dear God,
It's amazing that you are willing to let your mighty power work within us. Help us this week to use your power so that we can do more than we could ask or hope in our lives and the lives of those we impact. Amen.
Share Examples this week
How is God's Power working in You this week? Let us know so we can celebrate with you
email me: shari@ilovemychurch.org
call me: 517-270-0538
stop me in the hall: somewhere between the cafeteria, the gym, the library, or the auditorium :)
Forget or lose this page? Find it on my blog each week: www.shariglass.com
Policy Reminder of the week:
Please wear your Kid Crossing Shirt!
It is VERY important that you wear your Kid Crossing Shirt while volunteering unless you are in costume as a specific character. ONE: It helps parents and kids easily identify who you are and for them to know who they can go to for questions. TWO: It is a safety precaution that identifies who you are. Now that we are not using lanyard, shirts are our only way to specifically identify who is a volunteer and who is not. THREE: It helps us to look good – we are all working together! (and there's a 4th one: you don't have to figure out what to wear in the morning!)
Upcoming Events:
Students will be attending Acquire The Fire at the Joe Louis Arena next weekend, March 7 & 8. All questions should be directed to the Student Table in the Grand Lobby.
Crossroads will be offering Passion and Prayer on Wednesday, March 19. Beginning at 6:30 p.m., we will be showing the movie, The Passion of the Christ. Following the movie, there will be a time for prayer together for the persons being invited to attend the Easter worship experiences the following weekend. Since seating in the auditorium is limited to 700, we will be giving out tickets for this event. Tickets will be available, beginning this Sunday, March 2, at our What's Happening Center.
Volunteer Expo will be set-up again this Sunday in the Grand Lobby.
Egg Hunt Egg Stuffing will take place on Sunday, March 16, at 3 p.m. at the CFC.
Flashlight Egg Hunt will be held on the grounds of LCS at 8 p.m. on Friday, March 21.
Our Easter worship experience times will be as follows: No Kid Fusion during this weekend.
Saturday, March 22, 4 & 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, March 23, 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.
C.L.A.S.S. 101, 201 & 301 will be offered again on Sunday, April 20, from 3-7:30 p.m.
The next annual Blessing of the Bikes will take place on Saturday, May 10, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on the grounds of the CFC
Other things to keep in mind...
Sunday, March 9, Daylight Savings Time begins. It's early this year. Don't forget to SPRING your clocks forward one hour on Saturday night, March 8.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Skiing - not scrapping
Today turned out to be a very snowy day and my scrapbooking trip got delayed for another day. However, my lovely friend Carrie, did mention she was going Cross Country skiing. It sounded like a great idea to me, so I got on my snow gear, grabbed my skis and headed out. Ended up skiing around quite a bit of our lake! Sometimes I was plowing through 8 - 12 inches of untouched snow, other times I found snowmobile tracks. All in all I was out for almost 2 hours and it was quite an adventure! There is skiing in Michigan after all...you just can't look for hills!
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Happy Leap Day!
Happy February 29th! Happy Birthday, Happy anniversary, and Happy whatever else to everyone who only officially get to celebrate this day once every four years!
My daughter's snack day at school is today, so in honor of Leap Day we made frog snacks, which I found on the internet...somewhere:
Bugs - M&Ms
Flies - raisins
Worms - Chinese Noodles (or you could use pretzel sticks)
Fish - Fish crackers
It's actually a pretty tasty combination
My daughter's snack day at school is today, so in honor of Leap Day we made frog snacks, which I found on the internet...somewhere:
Bugs - M&Ms
Flies - raisins
Worms - Chinese Noodles (or you could use pretzel sticks)
Fish - Fish crackers
It's actually a pretty tasty combination
Quota?
I might be an infrequent, sporadic blogger, but I think maybe I hit my quota for this month all in one night! Maybe it's a Good Thing I don't do this too often :)
Scrapbooking tomorrow
I am going scrapbooking with my great friend Carrie E. tomorrow! Life is always an adventure when I hang around with Carrie. She's always able to give me a new perspective, and just a little bit of her energy through osmosis. And you know what... it doesn't really matter how many "pages" I get done. What does matter is that I get to hang out with a great friend and do life with her!
Volunteer Thought from 2/24
February 24, 2008
Ephesians 3:20
“Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.”
Glory be to God!
The beginning of this verse puts everything we do into perspective for me. God put us here to honor and glorify Him. Not to say “Hey look, I'm so great, I'm so wonderful” But so that we can show the world who He is, so that we can be living examples of His love. We are coming to Crossroads to glorify God. We are leading our kids to bring glory to God. In turn we are teaching them how to bring glory to God. How cool is that?!
Jesus “with skin on”
We bring glory to God in Kid Crossing by becoming Jesus “with skin on” to our kids. Kids look up to people who are older than they are. They want to be just like you. Many of them come from broken homes or bad situations. You may be the only adult they associate with God. Our kids are going to learn who Jesus is, not by the information we teach them, but by the love we show them, by our actions, by how we treat them and others. Kids will watch every move you make. We are the ones who will make Jesus real...for the good or the bad. The question we have to ask ourselves every week, every day even, is “How am I being Jesus with skin on to the kids (and other adults) I'm interacting with? “
Share Examples this week
Let me know how you brought Glory to God this week, in Kid Crossing or any area of your life. OR let me know how you saw someone else bringing Glory to God and being Jesus with skin on. Then I'll pass your examples on to the rest of the team so we can celebrate!
email me: shari@ilovemychurch.org
call me: 517-270=538
stop me in the hall: somewhere between the cafeteria, the gym, the library, or the auditorium :)
Questions to ponder this week
Are you glorifying God in your life and your ministry? How?
How will our kids see “Jesus with skin on” in you this week? Next week?
Who can you invite to serve with you so that they can experience glorifying God by serving His kids?
Pray
Pray this week about how you can bring Glory to God by being Jesus with skin on to those you work with, live with, and serve.
Dear God,
Thank you for creating us to bring glory to You. Help us this week to look for and find ways that we can bring glory to You. Help us to be Jesus with skin on to our kids, and everyone we come in contact with. Amen.
Policy Reminder of the week:
Check Out – SAFETY FIRST!
Do NOT let any child leave your area without properly checking and matching the child's tag and parent's receipt. If either tag or receipt is missing there are missing receipt forms to fill out. If you are unsure what to do radio for a KC Director and one of us will come help you.
Take a little extra time. It's OK if a parent gets upset or has to stay 5 more minutes. Our kids' safety is worth it. Our safety system is only as good as we follow through with it.
No Exceptions!
Upcoming Events:
KC Inside Story: March 2 from 1:00 – 3:00
What is Kid Crossing all about?
Learn Policies and Procedures
Invite someone who you think wants to make a difference and come with them
Required for new volunteers and those who haven't come to one yet.
Lunch & Child care will be provided
Egg Stuffing: March 16 at 3pm
Egg Hunt: March 21 at 8pm
Crossroads Easter Experiences:
Saturday, March 22, 4pm and 5:30pm
Sunday, March 23, 9:30am and 11am
Sign up for the experiences that you will get to be a part of changing lives this Easter!
Ephesians 3:20
“Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.”
Glory be to God!
The beginning of this verse puts everything we do into perspective for me. God put us here to honor and glorify Him. Not to say “Hey look, I'm so great, I'm so wonderful” But so that we can show the world who He is, so that we can be living examples of His love. We are coming to Crossroads to glorify God. We are leading our kids to bring glory to God. In turn we are teaching them how to bring glory to God. How cool is that?!
Jesus “with skin on”
We bring glory to God in Kid Crossing by becoming Jesus “with skin on” to our kids. Kids look up to people who are older than they are. They want to be just like you. Many of them come from broken homes or bad situations. You may be the only adult they associate with God. Our kids are going to learn who Jesus is, not by the information we teach them, but by the love we show them, by our actions, by how we treat them and others. Kids will watch every move you make. We are the ones who will make Jesus real...for the good or the bad. The question we have to ask ourselves every week, every day even, is “How am I being Jesus with skin on to the kids (and other adults) I'm interacting with? “
Share Examples this week
Let me know how you brought Glory to God this week, in Kid Crossing or any area of your life. OR let me know how you saw someone else bringing Glory to God and being Jesus with skin on. Then I'll pass your examples on to the rest of the team so we can celebrate!
email me: shari@ilovemychurch.org
call me: 517-270=538
stop me in the hall: somewhere between the cafeteria, the gym, the library, or the auditorium :)
Questions to ponder this week
Are you glorifying God in your life and your ministry? How?
How will our kids see “Jesus with skin on” in you this week? Next week?
Who can you invite to serve with you so that they can experience glorifying God by serving His kids?
Pray
Pray this week about how you can bring Glory to God by being Jesus with skin on to those you work with, live with, and serve.
Dear God,
Thank you for creating us to bring glory to You. Help us this week to look for and find ways that we can bring glory to You. Help us to be Jesus with skin on to our kids, and everyone we come in contact with. Amen.
Policy Reminder of the week:
Check Out – SAFETY FIRST!
Do NOT let any child leave your area without properly checking and matching the child's tag and parent's receipt. If either tag or receipt is missing there are missing receipt forms to fill out. If you are unsure what to do radio for a KC Director and one of us will come help you.
Take a little extra time. It's OK if a parent gets upset or has to stay 5 more minutes. Our kids' safety is worth it. Our safety system is only as good as we follow through with it.
No Exceptions!
Upcoming Events:
KC Inside Story: March 2 from 1:00 – 3:00
What is Kid Crossing all about?
Learn Policies and Procedures
Invite someone who you think wants to make a difference and come with them
Required for new volunteers and those who haven't come to one yet.
Lunch & Child care will be provided
Egg Stuffing: March 16 at 3pm
Egg Hunt: March 21 at 8pm
Crossroads Easter Experiences:
Saturday, March 22, 4pm and 5:30pm
Sunday, March 23, 9:30am and 11am
Sign up for the experiences that you will get to be a part of changing lives this Easter!
Volunteer Thought from 2/17
Ephesians 3:20
“Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.”
The “buried” verse
I discovered this verse at the end of last summer and used it to kick off our school year in Kid Crossing. Unfortunately in the hustle and bustle of “getting ministry done” as the year has gone by, this incredible verse got pushed to the back of my desk, and was piled upon, literally and figuratively by the other “stuff” on my desk. This week, after some time praying and refocusing, God reminded me of this verse, and I moved “everything” off my desk to find it.
More than I dared to ask or hope for
Thankfully God is bigger than me and my piles and I can see how God is doing more than I could dare to ask or hope for despite me. Here's an example: Shortly after we had our fall kick off, that most of you didn't know about soon enough to plan for, I really had no one else besides myself in the deepest level of Kid Crossing Leadership. I now have Melonie – Group Life Director, Lee - Communications Director, and Alicia – Operations Director. Way more than I dared to ask or even hope for.
Exploring the verse
I'd like to take the next few weeks to continue to explore this verse with you and look at the impact it can have in Kid Crossing and in our own lives. As you think about this verse in the coming weeks, I'd love to hear from you how God is using it in your life.
Questions to ponder this week
What is God doing in your life that is more than you could dare to ask or hope for?
What do you see God doing in your ministry that is more than you could dare to ask or hope for?
How can God use you to accomplish more than you could ask or hope for in the lives of your kids – the ones you interact with and serve each week in Kid Crossing?
Pray
Pray this week about how God can use you to accomplish infinitely more than you dare to ask or hope for.
Dear God,
Thank you for being there for us, even when we get busy with all our “stuff and piles”. Thank you for promising to do more than we could dare to ask or hope for. Help us to see the plans you have for us. Help us to be willing and obedient to be used by you in our lives, our ministry, our jobs, wherever we are, so that through your power we can accomplish infinitely more than we could ever consider without you. Amen.
Policy Reminder of the week:
Know your area's bathroom policy. If you don't know the specifics ask Shari, Melonie or Lee.
NO child should go to the bathroom alone and NO adult should take a child to the bathroom alone. Know where your closest bathrooms are located.
Bathroom breaks during Large Group time should ONLY be permitted if it is an emergency.
Upcoming Events:
Baptism: February 24
Volunteer Expo: February 24
KC Inside Story: March 2 from 1:00 – 3:00
Egg Stuffing: March 16 at 3pm
Egg Hunt: March 21 at 8pm
Crossroads Easter Experiences:
Saturday, March 22, 4pm and 5:30pm
Sunday, March 23, 9:30am and 11am
“Now glory be to God! By His mighty power at work within us, He is able to accomplish infinitely more than we would ever dare to ask or hope.”
The “buried” verse
I discovered this verse at the end of last summer and used it to kick off our school year in Kid Crossing. Unfortunately in the hustle and bustle of “getting ministry done” as the year has gone by, this incredible verse got pushed to the back of my desk, and was piled upon, literally and figuratively by the other “stuff” on my desk. This week, after some time praying and refocusing, God reminded me of this verse, and I moved “everything” off my desk to find it.
More than I dared to ask or hope for
Thankfully God is bigger than me and my piles and I can see how God is doing more than I could dare to ask or hope for despite me. Here's an example: Shortly after we had our fall kick off, that most of you didn't know about soon enough to plan for, I really had no one else besides myself in the deepest level of Kid Crossing Leadership. I now have Melonie – Group Life Director, Lee - Communications Director, and Alicia – Operations Director. Way more than I dared to ask or even hope for.
Exploring the verse
I'd like to take the next few weeks to continue to explore this verse with you and look at the impact it can have in Kid Crossing and in our own lives. As you think about this verse in the coming weeks, I'd love to hear from you how God is using it in your life.
Questions to ponder this week
What is God doing in your life that is more than you could dare to ask or hope for?
What do you see God doing in your ministry that is more than you could dare to ask or hope for?
How can God use you to accomplish more than you could ask or hope for in the lives of your kids – the ones you interact with and serve each week in Kid Crossing?
Pray
Pray this week about how God can use you to accomplish infinitely more than you dare to ask or hope for.
Dear God,
Thank you for being there for us, even when we get busy with all our “stuff and piles”. Thank you for promising to do more than we could dare to ask or hope for. Help us to see the plans you have for us. Help us to be willing and obedient to be used by you in our lives, our ministry, our jobs, wherever we are, so that through your power we can accomplish infinitely more than we could ever consider without you. Amen.
Policy Reminder of the week:
Know your area's bathroom policy. If you don't know the specifics ask Shari, Melonie or Lee.
NO child should go to the bathroom alone and NO adult should take a child to the bathroom alone. Know where your closest bathrooms are located.
Bathroom breaks during Large Group time should ONLY be permitted if it is an emergency.
Upcoming Events:
Baptism: February 24
Volunteer Expo: February 24
KC Inside Story: March 2 from 1:00 – 3:00
Egg Stuffing: March 16 at 3pm
Egg Hunt: March 21 at 8pm
Crossroads Easter Experiences:
Saturday, March 22, 4pm and 5:30pm
Sunday, March 23, 9:30am and 11am
Successful Move!
So, I just noticed I hadn't blogged since just before Kid Crossing's move to new spaces. Our move was a huge success! Everything went off without a hitch. Only our pre-K area needed a little tweaking, and even that has now settled into place. It's great having all of our kids areas in close proximity to each other! Better for our families, our volunteers, and Me! (However I did think my pedometer would register fewer steps since we were all in one general location - but that hasn't proven to be true yet.)
If I can get our resident computer genius (aka my husband) to show me how to put pictures on my blog I'll add a few picts of our new environments! Once again God knew what he was doing, even when we didn't!
If I can get our resident computer genius (aka my husband) to show me how to put pictures on my blog I'll add a few picts of our new environments! Once again God knew what he was doing, even when we didn't!
Kid Crossing Weekly Volunteer thoughts
One of the great benefits from moving all of our kids' environments closer together is that we now are able to meet with our volunteers for prayer prior to our Kids' worship experiences. While, it is still not without challenges, our gatherings at 8:10 and 11:10 have been getting larger. It's very exciting for me to be able to connect and pray with our volunteers.
Each week we have a volunteer thought and questions to ponder for the next week, along with updates, policy reminders, and any other important info. I'm going to start posting these on my blog (at least the ones that aren't copyrighted) each week. This way if you're a Kid Crossing volunteer and you prefer an electronic copy to a paper copy, or you forget your paper copy, or you don't make it to our gathering one week, you can still get the info here.
We'll see how it works :)
Each week we have a volunteer thought and questions to ponder for the next week, along with updates, policy reminders, and any other important info. I'm going to start posting these on my blog (at least the ones that aren't copyrighted) each week. This way if you're a Kid Crossing volunteer and you prefer an electronic copy to a paper copy, or you forget your paper copy, or you don't make it to our gathering one week, you can still get the info here.
We'll see how it works :)
Friday, January 25, 2008
2 days and counting!
We are counting down to our (Kid Crossing's) big move on Sunday. Actually most of it will happen on Sat. afternoon/evening. Quite a few wonderful volunteers will be working together Saturday to make these new spaces great for Sunday morning. It will be a new and exciting chapter for Crossroads and Kid Crossing. I'm really looking forward to having all of our kids' environments located in the same area! It's going to allow us to work together better than ever. Even if you don't have kids, you're going to want to check out our new environments this week.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Kid Crossing is On the Move!
It's Official! Kid Crossing's kids' environments will be in NEW LOCATIONS beginning January 27, one week from Sunday. We are moving to new spaces due to the construction in the main entrance of the CFC, but we are very excited about the new possibilities this move brings. All of the kids areas will be closer together, spaces will allow for future expansion, and allow us to create better, safer environments for our kids.
So where are we going? Everyone will be in the Lenawee Christian School portion of the building:
Birth – 2 year olds will be in the school Library
3 year olds – Pre-K will be in the school Cafeteria (formerly home of K-5 large group/Kid Fusion)
Kindergarten - 5th grade will still be dropped off in the same hallway
Kindergarten - 5th grade Large group and Pick Up will occur in the school gym (elementary side)
Kid Fusion will be in the school gym (elementary side)
I'm sure there will be kinks that will need to be worked out in the first few weeks. Thanks for your patience as we work through this process and continue to help you help kids take their next steps toward Christ!
So where are we going? Everyone will be in the Lenawee Christian School portion of the building:
Birth – 2 year olds will be in the school Library
3 year olds – Pre-K will be in the school Cafeteria (formerly home of K-5 large group/Kid Fusion)
Kindergarten - 5th grade will still be dropped off in the same hallway
Kindergarten - 5th grade Large group and Pick Up will occur in the school gym (elementary side)
Kid Fusion will be in the school gym (elementary side)
I'm sure there will be kinks that will need to be worked out in the first few weeks. Thanks for your patience as we work through this process and continue to help you help kids take their next steps toward Christ!
Friday, January 11, 2008
Kid Crossing on the Move
Last week I said that Kid Crossing was getting back to normal. Well, "normal" is very short lived! In the next few weeks Kid Crossing Kid's worship environments will be moving to new locations. I will let you know all the details as soon as they are finalized. But expect all the kids' spaces to be located much closer together, and all in the school portion of the building. It's going to be very exciting!
Saturday, January 05, 2008
Kid Crossing back to "Normal"
After 3 weeks of "unnormal" (snow, Christmas, and Kid Fusion main stage) Kid Crossing is back to normal this week...or at least as normal as we get :) Kids' worship experiences will occur at 8:30 and 11:30 and Kid Fusion is at 10 AM. 0-2 Kid Crossing will occur at all 3 experiences.
3 year olds - PreK kids will be learning that "I can love God like Jesus did," in January. And K-5 kids, along with Kid Fusion will be learning about the virtue of Orderliness. I don't know about you. But I'm looking forward to my kids learning this one!
And as a sneak peak...Kid Fusion will be anything but orderly this week. It will be a one time crazy event you won't want to miss!
3 year olds - PreK kids will be learning that "I can love God like Jesus did," in January. And K-5 kids, along with Kid Fusion will be learning about the virtue of Orderliness. I don't know about you. But I'm looking forward to my kids learning this one!
And as a sneak peak...Kid Fusion will be anything but orderly this week. It will be a one time crazy event you won't want to miss!
Kid Fusion leads people to Christ
Last Sunday Kid Fusion, Crossroad's Family Experience, took over main stage for all 3 experiences! As a weekend in between holiday's attendance was lower than normal, but Kid Fusion still Rocked! The cast and crew pulled off an awesome experience for everyone who was there. Better yet, 6 people indicated they made a commitment to Christ as a result of this service. This is the whole reason we exist! To help people take their next steps toward Christ. And despite lower attendance, 6 commitments to Christ is very much in line with, if not above, the average number of commitments each week.
That is something to Celebrate! Thanks so much to all the Kid Fusion volunteers AND Crossroads volunteers who had a part in helping these people take their next steps toward Christ! You guys are awesome!!!
That is something to Celebrate! Thanks so much to all the Kid Fusion volunteers AND Crossroads volunteers who had a part in helping these people take their next steps toward Christ! You guys are awesome!!!
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Snow, Glorious Snow!
We've got snow. It's the best kind too. The kind you don't really know is coming. (no school so we don't watch the weather) We've probably got close to 12 inches around our house. We spent the morning outside! I got my exercise today shoveling the driveway. The Brian got out our x-country skis and we made a few loops around our area. The kids had fun sledding, running, and just playing in the snow. Really makes a person wish there was a real ski area nearby :) Only 3 1/2 more weeks until we go to VT though.
Tomorrow it's back into the swing of things. Ugghhhh that means mornings at 5;45... I'm working Thurs. and Friday for anyone who's interested :)
Tomorrow it's back into the swing of things. Ugghhhh that means mornings at 5;45... I'm working Thurs. and Friday for anyone who's interested :)
Tuesday, January 01, 2008
Happy New Year
This entry is dedicated to Brian and Doug...the two people who will probably read this.
So, I don't really believe in New Year's resolutions, thus blogging certainly won't be one of them for me, but I thought maybe I'd give it a try again. See if I can do more than 2 or 3 before I get sidetracked again :)
The first day of 2008 is about at an end. My family, amazingly including my 6 year old daughter, saw the beginning of 2008 along with our friends from our small group. It was an eventful and very LOUD evening (someone gave us all, including kids, noise makers). It was nice to be together with friends and family.
We had two amazing weekends at Crossroads, with 4 Christmas experiences, which Kid Crossing and Kid Fusion played pretty large parts in, and then Kid Fusion taking over the main auditorium again last weekend! It was incredible to be a part of all the lives God changed this holiday season. And it was amazing to work with a whole bunch of dedicated volunteers who worked many hours to make it all happen.
With all of that going on my usual Christmas vacation time was broken up a bit more than normal. We did take the kids skiing at Alpine Valley last Thurs. They had a great time and will now already have their ski legs under them when we head to VT at the end of this month.
Today we went and saw The Water Horse Micah is now fascinated with the Legend of Loch Ness. It was almost as much fun watching his reactions to the movie as it was watching the movie. He was thoroughly into it, on the edge of his seat 1/2 the time, and hiding behind his napkin when the music got too intense :)
One more day of vacation before we head back to work and school and schedules. I'm getting spoiled with staying up late and getting up late. This is my kind of time frame!
So, I don't really believe in New Year's resolutions, thus blogging certainly won't be one of them for me, but I thought maybe I'd give it a try again. See if I can do more than 2 or 3 before I get sidetracked again :)
The first day of 2008 is about at an end. My family, amazingly including my 6 year old daughter, saw the beginning of 2008 along with our friends from our small group. It was an eventful and very LOUD evening (someone gave us all, including kids, noise makers). It was nice to be together with friends and family.
We had two amazing weekends at Crossroads, with 4 Christmas experiences, which Kid Crossing and Kid Fusion played pretty large parts in, and then Kid Fusion taking over the main auditorium again last weekend! It was incredible to be a part of all the lives God changed this holiday season. And it was amazing to work with a whole bunch of dedicated volunteers who worked many hours to make it all happen.
With all of that going on my usual Christmas vacation time was broken up a bit more than normal. We did take the kids skiing at Alpine Valley last Thurs. They had a great time and will now already have their ski legs under them when we head to VT at the end of this month.
Today we went and saw The Water Horse Micah is now fascinated with the Legend of Loch Ness. It was almost as much fun watching his reactions to the movie as it was watching the movie. He was thoroughly into it, on the edge of his seat 1/2 the time, and hiding behind his napkin when the music got too intense :)
One more day of vacation before we head back to work and school and schedules. I'm getting spoiled with staying up late and getting up late. This is my kind of time frame!
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