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!
Thursday, October 02, 2008
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
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