Loving Students!

One of the perks of leading teenagers are the special relationships you make along the way. Each year, I shed tears as that special group of seniors leaves the nest of Student Ministry to find their place in the world. The cool thing is they come back and share the ups and downs of young adult life. About 6 years ago, at a summer camp, I met a group of teenage girls that the most important thing in their life at the time was how they wanted to stay up all night and talk about guys, prank their roomies, and decide what outfits they would wear each day at camp. As 10th grade turned into 12th grade, the group of girls grew as they lived out their walk with God at school and invited their friends to Student Ministry. These girls are all now in their junior year of college. Most have gone away to school, some are close to home. We try and hook up each Christmas and Summer break to get together, share memories, laugh, touch base with how they each are doing. We are still trying to get everyone together at the same time, hopefully one day we will have that reunion. I am really proud of all of them and the choices they are making to follow Christ with their talents, their choices, their lives.
This weekend, I was given the privilege of speaking to the High School students with the first lesson in our "Me, Myself, and I" series. The topic, "It's All About Me!". I asked some of the girls that would be in town this weekend to share. At first they were like, what can we share. I expressed to them how I have seen in their lives how they have matured and their world is not just all about them. I wanted them to share how God has taught them that living for Him, is less about what can they get from this world, and more about what can they give to this world.
We are all in the battle of selfish flesh versus an unselfish heart. What better way to learn than from one another. Teenagers listen more to their peers, than they do to adults. And tonight was awesome. Jenna and Patti, I am very proud of you. I know you may have been nervous, but it did not show, I believe because you made it more about Him and less about you. You were transparent and true leaders to teenagers trying to find their way in this journey we call Christianity. The students in our ministry each have a special gift God has given them, a special calling. But many of them struggle with whether it is "cool" enough to step out and use that gift. Right now it may just be kindness to a hurting friend, a smile to a lonely person, standing for what is right in the midst of peer pressure, finding a way to meet a need. I pray that tonight a high school student is thinking about how they can live out the Christian walk, not by a set of do's and don'ts, but by making a sacrifice for someone else, even if it means coming out of their comfort zone, to greet a stranger, to invite a friend to church, to....whatever it is that God is nudging them to do. :-)


Come check out the rest of the 4 week series, Student Service times at Cooper City campus are: Middle School - Saturday at 5pm and Sunday at 9:30am, 11am and 12:30pm
High School - Saturday at 6:30pm and Sunday at 11am
Check out www.therd.org for the other student services at our multi-sites!

Merry Christmas #2

Here are some more photos from the day. Marcus also stopped by for Christmas breakfast and we opened gifts with him and all the kids. He is showing off his new jacket, while Amber shows off her new boots and my new sunglasses, (that Amber wishes were hers, haha). Corey and Amber love to pose for the camera. Corey got Jamie a really nice necklace. (This year instead of celebrating the 12 days of Christmas with Jamie, he decided to come up with 8 Crazy nights. He was very creative with evenings that included from riding the roller coaster at Boomers to Building a Bear to dinner and shopping at Target.) After breakfast, we went to visit my cousin and family. This Christmas was hard for my cousin, not only was she dealing with this being the first Christmas without her mom, but her dog had also died last Wednesday. I know how hard that first Christmas is and just wanted to be there for her. (I remember not even wanting to put up a tree, just wanting to go somewhere, anywhere but home; all the memories were in my home. 13 years have passed since my mom and dad have passed, but the holidays are always the time that all the memories just come rushing back.) Maddie was so happy to see Corey and to be able to play some football. She had missed out on the Thanksgiving Turkey Bowl. We ended the evening having dinner with the Watson's and watching Ratatouille.

We miss being able to be with all our family. If you are reading this know that we send our love and hugs your way(scroll down and read my Christmas letter). This Christmas was simple, simple in gift giving, simple in preparation, simple in the activities of the day. The greatest part of all, that we were able to be together...to laugh, to share, to build more memories, to celebrate Christ's birth! Thank you God for the gift of your Son!

Merry Christmas #1

Here are some photos from Christmas! The first one is Corey helping me get the tree off the car and into the house! We had a blast getting the tree this year. Corey helped me pick it out and Amber helped decorate. The other 4 pics are from today. Our day started with waiting for the kids to wake, watching the Disney parade, and opening gifts together. Do you see the excitement on Amber's face? She had just opened her gift from her brother, he bought her tickets to the Chris Brown concert. He is taking her tomorrow night to dinner and the concert.






After the kids opened their gifts, we headed to Jamie's house for Christmas breakfast. All Corey really wanted for Christmas was the ability to come home between his Interterm and Spring term in January. The pics are of him getting some help putting together the puzzle pieces of his gift. Jamie bought him a one way ticket home and his father and I bought the return flight. We each gave him puzzle pieces and he had to put the puzzle together to figure out the gift. (Thanks Craig for creating the puzzle) Do you see Corey's BIG smile, he loved the gift!

Christmas Eve

I can't sleep, no, I am not waiting for Santa. I am just in awe...of my Father! But before I move on to Christmas Day, I share with you some highlights from the past 5 days. I woke Thursday morning not feeling well at all. My body ached and I had the pepto bismal song symptoms. Lord, please, I can not get sick for Christmas. I made it to our Student service and was even able to sing and dance my way through the NSync song without heaving. After the service, Susan Marquez asked me to pray with her for her mother-in-law. She had just been diagnosed with needing open heart surgery. Susan and I prayed and I also shared with her how I felt terrible, she laid hands on me and prayed for me also. When I woke Friday morning, I felt good, like really good. I knew instantly it was the power of prayer. When I saw Susan tonight, she shared with me that at the moment we were praying, the doctors were telling her husband that they were only going to be putting stints and not doing the open heart surgery on her mother in law. They did the procedure and her mother in law is feeling better and recovering. The power of prayer.
Tonight my family and I all spent Christmas Eve serving at the church services, and having dinner together courtesy of Noreen and the Hospitality ministry. I sat with my family at dinner and was thinking how simple we were spending the evening, but it was what it was all about, giving. God gave. When I went back into the church lobby, I was told by a Pastor that they had seen some of my friends go into the last service. Wow, I was again, floored by God, so excited that they had come. Many years ago, their names written on the concrete floor of that building. The power of prayer.
I was given the privilege to stand at the alter and pray and assist those that heard God call their name. Some with such pain to give to God for Him to carry for them. I pray they awake tomorrow to celebrate the greatest Christmas they have ever had. I pray that this past weekend of attending a church service is just the beginning for many. That 2008, they will add that activity to their calendar and continue to walk through the doors to find hope, to find peace, to find unconditional love, to find the Power of Prayer!

Christmas Services with Friends & Fam

My Christmas Letter

Each year I include the family update with my Christmas cards. This year it comes via my blog. Tim is still coaching and teaching at Hollywood Christian. His football team had a great season going to the second round of playoffs. Some highlights from coaching, he was nominated this school season for a coach of the year award in football, his football team for 2 weeks was #1 in the state, he had Dan Marino in his office, and was invited by Randy Shannon to a UofM practice. Those are highs to him! Tim was also diagnosed with diabetes this past fall. It is hereditary and the dr said, being in his 40's made it inevitable to get. But now that he does have it, he is on a strict diet and has lost over 40 pounds. Everyone in the home is learning to eat sugar free and it will be good for all of us. Amber is complaining she is losing weight and there is nothing to eat, but Corey is very happy especially because when he was home this past summer he had put Tim on a workout regimen, walking 2-3 miles each day. Corey is 19, turning 20 this February. He just finished his 3rd semester of college and made the dean's list for the 3rd time. He had his first college start on his football team and played the entire game this past season. He is dating Jamie and they are doing pretty good with a long distance relationship. Amber is 16 now and got her driver's license in August. Unfortunately, she had her first accident Thanksgiving eve, but it was not her fault. But in South Florida, it is inevitable. Amber and I joined the gym this year, and Tim will be joining after his next doctor's visit. Tim and I celebrated our 24th wedding anniversary in July. I am still working at Flamingo Road Church and this past summer, I was given the honor of being licensed as a pastor. My life is so very blessed, not perfect, just blessed. Each year seems to pass faster and faster. And I find the only things that matter, are the times I invest in others and the time I spend in relationships: family, friends, students I lead. As I write this, Tom Brady from the New England Patriots is on 60 minutes. He just said something very interesting, he says he has 3 Super Bowl rings, and yet he still feels like it is not enough. He is still looking for something else, something greater (that is not an exact quote). I know the "what" he is looking for, I have found it and therefore, I have peace! I have joy! I pray this Christmas season that you celebrate the One who brings PEACE AND JOY! I pray if you still seek HIM, that you will find him and no riches or things, will ever fill the void like (baby) Jesus, God has sent us this Christmas! Merry Christmas from my family to yours!

If you are looking for a Christmas Eve service to celebrate the holidays, log onto
www.flamingoroadchurch.com/internetcampus at 3:30pm, 5:00pm or 6:30pm eastern time, Dec 24 and catch the celebration live! Or if you are local, come by the Cooper City campus at the same times above. See you there!

Do you hear what I see?

As I drove to work this past week, I heard the DJ's on the radio talking about how listeners judge them by their voices. They said that they receive comments from listeners about how their pics on the website don't match the first impression from the voices the listeners hear each day. One of the DJ's was saying how he received an email from a listener that said, "Oh, I saw your picture on your website and didn't know you were black, you don't sound black." Another listener said, "You sound so smart, I didn't know you were black." (Yea, how offensive). Some other comments were, you sound younger than you are, or the lady DJ's got, you look hotter than you sound.


It got me to thinking that blind people really have an advantage in life. They can not see, therefore, they can not make comparisons of how one looks compared to how they sound. A blind person has not seen their impression of beautiful versus ugly, black versus white, old versus young. What an advantage, because they can not place judgement. They see everyone the same, and can really only have the ability to judge based how they are treated or spoken to, versus making an impression by voice without seeing or getting to know the person.

Each day we make judgements of others based on what they look like or sound like, the scary part is what we do with that impression or judgement.

James 2:12Talk and act like a person expecting to be judged by the Rule that sets us free. For if you refuse to act kindly, you can hardly expect to be treated kindly. Kind mercy wins over harsh judgment every time.

Christmas Traditions

I love the fact that Christmas allows families to get together and share traditions. Each family is unique and I always love to hear others share their different Christmas traditions. Here are a few of our family Christmas traditions:

1. Christmas Pajamas - I give the kids new Christmas pj's each year to wear on Christmas Eve, even now at 19 and 16 years old!
2. Going to a Christmas movie together - as the kids got older this was a tradition we added to get them to hang out with family. Some movies we have seen in the past: Polar Express, The Nativity. For some reason, Amber always falls asleep. We're taking bets for this year.
3. Getting the tree - read previous blog
4. Playing the N'Sync Christmas CD and dancing in the living room like fools..."Merry Christmas and Haaaapppy Holidays!"
5. Giving each child a new ornament for the tree - Each year I buy them a new ornament for the tree. I try to find ones that are relevant to what they are into or who they are.
6. Christmas morning video moment - this started when they were very young, they would have to wait for us to set up the camera before they could enter the room and see what Santa brought; the funny thing is that even now, they wait for Tim and I to get set up before they come downstairs, only now they call us on their cellphones to let us know they are ready!
7. Going to the mall together - It started when the kids were young with visiting Santa. Now that they are older it includes shopping and lunch. The malls are always decorated so nice and it puts you in the Christmas spirit to see all the decorations. We love Aventura, but don't always make it there.
8. Going to Christmas Eve service as a family - this seems typical, but as a staff family and having teenagers, this does get harder to do. We also each find a place to serve during the services.

I have a few more, but I would rather hear what your Christmas traditions are!!

Real or Fake?

It's time to get the Christmas tree! Each year I ask myself the question, continue to get the REAL tree or cave in and get the FAKE tree. Since I always get a real tree, I usually wait 1-2 weeks before Christmas so it will stay alive throughout the holidays. Now, I also have to take into consideration to wait for my son to get home from college to be a part of the event. He is supposed to be flying home tomorrow on standby, so I was deciding that this Sunday would be a great day to get the tree. I was talking with my cousin and she was telling me about the great deal she got on a fake tree and how she loves it. Both her and my sister have shared their pros for a fake tree, such as: it doesn't die, you do not have to water, it doesn't make a mess, it's branches don't wither down, therefore allowing the ornaments to stay on and not fall off.

BUT I still can not cave in and get a fake tree. My pros for a real tree are more personal, the biggest one being: growing up my mom always got a real tree, we never had a fake tree. The real trees smell so good and those smells remind me of the good memories I have of Christmas' past with my mom. So, in honor of her memory, I have realized that I can not give in to fake. I also have great memories of going each year as a family to the tree tent and picking one out.

ONE story I will always remember about getting the Christmas tree was when my kids were about 7 and 4 years old. The tree handler was bringing the tree to our car and helping us tie it to the top. I gave Corey a couple dollars to tip the man for his help. As we went to get in the car and leave, Corey came up to me and handed me the money. I said to him, "Corey, go give the money to the guy." He said, "Mom, I did, but the man told me I could keep it for myself and not tell you." That was one of those proud parent moments and I was able to have a teachable moment about God with my son. I told him, because he was honest, he could keep the money. I explained that when we do the right thing, it allows God to bless our lives.

So for all those reasons and more, I choose REAL! I can sweep up the needles that it will shed, it's only for a couple weeks.

Another gift idea

Ok, I found another gift that keeps giving. If you need a music gift, you can go online to http://www.familychristianstores.com/ and order a CD. (It applies to a select few) For every one purchased, they will donate one to a soldier.
Sometimes it is hard to remember that we are at war, when we get up and live in freedom each day. But I am sure many families are reminded of war by the absence of their loved ones, especially at Christmas.
One of my son's good friends is in the Air Force and stationed in Turkey, this will be the first holiday season in his 19 years that he will be this far away from family and friends. We are praying for him to have a safe Christmas. Praying for all the soldiers defending our country and for their families!

Gift Giving Idea

Only 13 more shopping days til Christmas. Are you done? I wish I could say I was. My kids are older now and only one gives me a list. The other is harder to buy for, but has no list or special requests. Can you guess which is which?
I love the Christmas holidays and the fun of gift giving is finding that special gift for our friends and family. I am really excited about this find. I first heard about these shoes when the creater Blake was featured on a CNN show. Toms are comfortable shoes created with a vision in mind to give. For each pair you buy, they will donate a pair of shoes to a child in need. You can even style your own.
You can log onto http://www.tomsshoes.com/ and check out all the different styles. The pair in the photo are the "flower power" style from the summer line. I thought this style would go great with the Retro Christmas series that Flamingo Road Church is currently doing.
Each year we give and recieve gifts, but do we even remember what they were. I have been challenged personally this year to remember that celebrating the birth of my Savior happens each day and I need to be giving Him my best the other 364. It is not that I do not know this, but I have to live the celebration part more each day. Because each day is a celebration that God gives me.
What can I give this Christmas that goes further than just Christmas day? Well, these shoes for one, but also my "Greatest Gift" tithe to my church, serving others with my talents, and my time to those that just need a listening ear. How about you? What is that special gift you are giving or receiving this Christmas? I pray it helps you step closer to the King!!!

So excited, I can't sleep

Ok, so I should be getting ready for bed. But I am so excited for Christmas Express tomorrow that I can't sleep. My husband, Marcus and I just went and dropped off the shuttle bus that we will use tomorrow to help transport families and gifts. While we were there, I saw the Student Ministry door open and went inside to see the "Toy Mall". And can I say, WOW! It is overwhelming, gorgeous, amazing, full of toys. I am not sure many of you will read this in time to see the room before the families arrive to choose their gifts. But what you see when you walk into that room is the goodness, greatness of God being shown through the kindness and generosity of His people. WOW! I know that Christmas is the time of year where people are more motivated to give to those less fortunate. I pray that the power of Christmas Express motivates people to give not only in December, but also January-November. We all have something: time, talent and/or money that can be given to God's church to allow it to minister to the hurting and the hungry the other 364 days. Aren't you excited to discover what gift you can give Him each day in the coming year?

Party Time

I know, I know, you're wondering, where have you been? I really don't have time to explain or make excuses. Life has been busy, yeah, what's new. Anyway, the next few blogs may be out of sequential order, but hey, it's my blog.

PARTY TIME

Yesterday, was the All Day Staff Christmas Party at FRC and can I just say it was off the chain. Honestly, when we were first told to reserve the whole day from 12:01am-11:59pm, I thought we were going to meet at the gym in the middle of the night. Carson and I were trying to increase our reps on the machines at the gym. We were wrong, but we did need endurance for the day. It started at 8:30am and included lots of fun and surprises. Our staff was separated into teams and we spent the day competing for the "bag of goodies". The coolest part is that each event is strategically planned by Pastor Troy to teach us lessons of leadership. We participated in games like, "Are you smarter than a 5th grader", a photo contest using our values, cookie decorating, judging team diversity, undercover agents, a mall scavenger hunt and it all ended with a trip to the movies. FRC has a very competitive staff and we all want to win, but what I have learned over the past few years is that it really is more about the relationships and life lessons than the win. As I spoke with some of my co-workers throughout the day, one of them mentioned to me how they didn't even remember who had won last year, but they did remember who they got to know better and the fun they had being with everyone for the day.
Here are the great things I learned yesterday and the people I got to know better:

• Sam Gielow and Brandon Holder are cousins. I helped recruit them both for Jorge's team and never knew this until yesterday. I've known Sam for about 4 years and didn't know she was related to Bev Santiago and Brandon!
• Oana L. went to school with my son at Cooper City High; she took spanish with him, helped him with his homework, graduated the same year he did and she lives in my neighborhood!
• Bev Santiago's husband, Noel works for Sunrise Fire Dept, and so does Marcus Williams dad. And Mark Varca has been praying for someone in the Sunrise Fire Dept to help him out with his fire alarm issues; I think we may have a solution.
• I learned to keep the focus on the prize, to continue to push myself toward's my potential, even when it hurts, that we are all on the same team, but so many times it is who you know and who you have on your team that helps you reach your destiny, and we can always learn a new truth each day, because we are not there yet!

Thank you so much to Pastor Troy, Stephanie, Espy and Greg for a great day of fun! Thanks to all my fellow co-workers, you are all a blast to do life with. I am encouraged, inspired, motivated and energized to get ready for 2008.

Turkey Bowl photos in December

I really wanted to get these photos and post on the blog before November ended. But it didn't happen. Yes, Thanksgiving 2007 is the past, and we are now preparing for Christmas. But here are some photos from our Turkey Bowl.
Corey came home on November 17 for Thanksgiving week. He was excited to be able to be a part of his dad's football team practices. (Tim's team was in the 2nd round of the playoffs on November 23, so for the first time in a few years, there would be football practice on Thanksgiving day)

Corey also organized the traditional Turkey Bowl (flag football game) we have each year on Thanksgiving Day. It began years ago with my dad and uncles playing and Corey being a little tyke wanting to get into the game. Now he is organizing it and he wanted revenge this year, because Amber and Jamie's team beat his team last year. He also secured a trophy, not sure whose mantle he swiped it from. Unfortunately for Corey, Amber and Jamie's team got the victory again. Well, he has a year to prepare and recruit a new team for 2008.

I am not afraid!

For the second time in a week, crime has hit close to home. This afternoon, my daughter's cell phone rang with a call from a friend letting her know that police were all over Stirling Road, searching for robbers on the run. They had found the getaway car at the gas station where we usually get gas. My daughter and I were on our way out the door. Should we go, bad guys running around, you could hear the helicopters in the area. Amber's words to me, "If it's our time to go, that is God's doing, I am not afraid." I thought, true, but let's check the news just to see how close this chase really is. God gave us a brain not to walk into dangerous situations. As we left our subdivision, you could see police cars all around the Rock Creek neighborhood. Yes, there definitely was something going down. But you can not stop living or doing. Life goes on. Last week, my daughter and husband had to face their school going on lockdown due to a prisoner shooting the police officer transporting him to court. Amber texted me from her class asking me why and what was going on. I explained the situation. But I must admit, if she was at this school and her dad wasn't an employee, I may have been a bit more anxious about the situation. They did catch the guy only a mile from her school.

I always have friends and family, that no longer live here, question me about why I stay in South Florida. Truly, because I LOVE this place. I do not think there is a geographical cure. I believe this a great place to raise your children. We can not hide them from reality, we need to teach them to make wise choices, to be aware of their surroundings, and to find ways to be a light in the darkness. And those that have the light, should not run because they are faced with some darkness. I don't particularly care for gunned robbers running the neighborhood, but it doesn't mean that I must run and hide.

Today, as we were out and about, my daughter and I ran into some kids needing some money. My daughter reminded me as we walked out of the store, to give the boy some money. Be a light in a dark world, the more we shine, the brighter the light outshines the darkness. John 12:46 speaks Jesus words, when he said, "I have come as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in me will no longer remain in the dark".

Yes, there will be darkness in this world, but heaven is a place of love and light...we can not hide here because of fear, we need to shine, for heaven's sake! Thank you Lord for the police officers who put their lives on the line for my safety each day.

Invest & Inspire

Sometimes it can be hard to put into words how someone else has invested and made a difference in your life. This past week in our staff meeting, Pastor Troy challenged the FRC team to stop and remember those people in your life that have made a difference, that have influenced your life for the better, that have encouraged you to take steps towards the best parts of who God has created you to be. Troy shared the following from Philippians 1:3-

3I thank my God every time I remember you. 4In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy 5because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. 7It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart; for whether I am in chains or defending and confirming the gospel, all of you share in God's grace with me. 8God can testify how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus. 9And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, 10so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, 11filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ—to the glory and praise of God.

I do have a list of people, but today I write about 2!

Dr EG Robertson is one of those people. Dr EG, is the first man that I ever met that modeled what it meant to be a true man of faith. He is the first pastor that I ever heard speak the words, "Jesus loves you". I watched his life, heard his words and admired his class. I did not have any male role models in my life at the time that carried the truth in such a way that he did. I wanted to know more, and looked forward to a chapel service when he was going to speak. As a teenager, his Christian walk, was a big influence on my choices to take those steps. I knew Dr EG from afar, my seat in the congregation to his place on stage, but I was able to get to know his son in college. And a cool thing I discovered about Dr EG, is that he passed his love for God, family, and sharing Christ down to his son, Garland. Garland is someone that God has used as a voice of God in my life and the life of my family members. He was there when my sister was diagnosed with lupus, he walked into the room just minutes after my dad passed away. He has shown that his obedience to the Holy Spirit always allows for God to be able to use him in others lives in some of the most difficult times they face. Just last week, I found a card in my mailbox and it was words of encouragement, sharing how my father would be proud of me...it came from Garland. My father never said he was proud of me, but like I said Garland speaks God's words, because I know my heavenly Father is. Dr EG has made an impact on my life, and even greater, he has passed this legacy down through his family. I send my love and prayers to the Robertson family and thank God for them!
Take some time today and blog about that person who has invested and inspired you to reach, to step towards the Light! If you do not have a blog, call them, send them a card! Take some time to show your thankfulness for people who have been there for you in your best and worst times of life!

Shop, Drop, and Roll

This past Sunday evening, the students of Flamingo Road Church Student Ministry were able to give of their time and resources to help out some families less fortunate. We hosted our 2nd annual Food Drop. It is such a simple concept. Find a family in need, come together as a small group, each student give $10, go to the grocery store and purchase all the fixings for a Thanksgiving meal and deliver to the family. We had 20 groups go out into the community. What an adventure they had. Each week in Student Ministry the message is given to students telling them of God's love and what the Bible teaches about issues relevant to their stage of life. But nothing teaches them the reality of being Christ, like this event can. Going out and being Jesus to someone in need. Our hope is that this just doesn't happen once a year for them, but they become sensitive to the needs of others around them in their everyday life, from school, to their neighbors, family members. Here is one of the stories from a leader:

A quick recap from our wacky adventure. We found the house this year but it was empty- no furniture, no carpet- but we could hear a dryer going and see cars in the garage. We called the phone numbers but no answer- left messages- no call back- so—we were in the process of taking the groceries back to the car to deliver to another family when---- several people came out from the next door neighbor’s house. Turns out the family was in the process of moving and were staying with the family next door. Our surprise was blown but we actually got to help out 2 families (the original and the kind neighbor). On our way home, the mom called my cell phone (I had left the # when we were trying to find them) and was so thankful- sharing with me that she was suffering from cancer and the children had just asked that week what they were going to do for Thanksgiving with no money and no home. She even said that her littlest asked her if God had told her that we were coming with the groceries! Sniffles, tears ensued- wow!! How much more were we blessed by this experience – it was huge!!! Love, love loved it!!!! Thanks God! Sue

PS, Chad, FRC Student Pastor, also blogged about the event and he has more photos, check it out at www.chadswanzy.blogspot.com

On the Run

I have been busy for like 8 days straight...from Middle School Costume Dance to Trunk or Treat with visiting my son somewhere in the middle. Tonight I am actually sitting still for a few hours at home, and what did I discover...Run's House has started it's new season on Thursday nights at 10:30pm on MTV. I do not follow too many shows, but this one I will try and catch each week.

Life of Teenagers

Amber & Ryan Sheckler

One thing I have learned in raising teenagers is most of their 4 years of high school is about how far away they can separate themselves from the identity of mom and dad, and create their own identity. It is normal for a separation to begin between teenager and parents. I learned that I need to give my teenager their space, but try to be intentional on finding out what it is they like and join them. A teenager between the age of 14-18 doesn't usually think what their parents like is so cool anymore, like their music, verbage, tv shows, etc. So when my son was at this stage, we both loved music, so I tried to get to know about the music he was into. He followed a group called Pillar from middle school and was a true fan.

My daughter has come to that time in her life where she is distancing her self, so it was time to be intentional about what we share in common or what is she into that I can learn to love. Besides the normal girl stuff like shopping, getting your nails or hair done, I realized she likes to watch The Hills and Life of Ryan on TV Monday nights. This is our time to hang out, we enjoy watching the show together and discussing the plots and characters. When my son was into his bands, we would accompany him to some of their concerts, even hooking up with tours when we were on our vacations (Ohio and New York). Well, the past two days, I spent with my daughter hanging out at the AST Dew Tour watching Ryan Sheckler skate. As a 16 year old, she thinks he is cute, but in no way wants to be known as an obsessive fan. While we were at the venue watching the events a couple times he came up close and all the girls would go crazy. I was like Amber, go over and snap his pic, she was like, no way I am not that obsessive. We had fun hanging out together and after a long day in the heat and then rain, Ryan's skate heat was postponed, so we decided to leave. On our way out of the event, guess who we ran into leaving also, yep, Ryan. He was with his family and I am sure ready to go to his hotel and rest. But he was very kind to stop and take pictures with Amber. She did not want to even ask for a photo. I asked her, can I ask him, you may never get this chance again. Thanks Ryan for obliging, you really are a class act. Amber and I went to dinner and reminised over our day. She was joking about taking the photo being priceless. But honestly, making memories with my teenager, {who prefers to spend more time with her friends and find her place in this world, away from mom or dad}, that is truly priceless.

One White Jersey

One of the biggest obstacles for a teenager and possibly even an adult to make is taking a stand for what they believe in. Working with teenagers, and having a couple of my own, a value I try to instill and hold up high is letting them know it is ok to be yourself and stand up for what you believe in. Acceptance is such a big part of the teenage years and for many it doesn't end at 19, but carries into the adult years. Being brave enough to be ourselves and take a stand for what we believe is not easy. Last week I witnessed a high school sophomore take a stand for what he believed in. I find that so courageous in people in general. It was at my husband's high school football game. They played a public high school from Tavenier. At the end of every game, my husband's team will create a circle and invite the other team to join for prayer. Most teams will accept, some don't. This week the other team did not accept. My husband's team all in their black jerseys took a knee and were about to bow their heads and then from the other side, one white jersey, #7, the quarterback from the other team, joined the circle. He took a knee and bowed his head to pray. Courage, not only did his team lose, but he was the starting quarterback. Character, to walk away from the crowd, to participate in something he felt strongly about. I was so impressed. Tears came to my eyes and I wished I had a camera. It would have been a powerful photo of the one white jersey amoung the 38 black jerseys, all kneeling, heads bowed. God has great plans for #7, I hope the others took notice and he inspired them to have courage next time.

Random Thoughts, Prayer Requests

So many things on my mind, couldn't narrow in on one...

• Praying for my niece, Megan, she found a friend dead from an overdose, and she is having a very hard time recovering through her grief. Lord, surround her with your love!
• My husband's team went to wash a wall today. They learned a lesson of humility. My daughter took pics and I will blog about the lesson learned.
• Praying for Dr EG, and the Robertson family. Dr EG impacted my life by being the first man I ever heard speak about the love of Jesus, at a time I didnt trust love.
• Ran into a couple friends today, have invited both to FRC, one of them attends now and then, but the other shared with me how her boss logged onto mynakedpastor and loved the lesson on anger. He loved Pastor Troy and wants to attend the church. Yes!
• Praying for 3 couples who my husband is sharing Christ with. They have not come to church yet, but sometimes you just need to be a friend. Praying for friendship opportunities.
• Thankful for Pastor Troy and his family. Praying for rest as the cameras from mynakedpastor will turn off in 36 hours. Excited to see how God will lead him next.
• Praying for Natalie, she is truly wanting to follow after God and do the right thing. She is quite alone because she is different and people can be mean when you are different.
• My son calls and brightens my day. :-) My living room is full of laughter right now.
• Excited to meet up with the new families and people that are coming by SM this weekend to check it out for their kids or to become a leader. I spoke with 3 that are stopping in.
• Praying for 200!
• Praying for Campus Teams! Jesus, help them to have the courage to see their friends the way you do!
• Praying for our students, High School is just 4 years of their long life to serve Him, make the right choices today for the blessings in your tomorrow, they think for the moment, but need to learn to think for the future.
• 16 year olds naturally navigate away and tend to share less with adults, help me find ways to connect, despite the disconnection.
• I met a really cool guy tonight, he was thanking me for taking his 2 sons to dinner last night. He knows Vaughn and I just know God put him on my path for a reason. What a small world.
• My roof has a leak, my car is in the shop, but they are just things. No need to fret. My nice neighbor fixed my washer that also decided to join the club. Thanks!
• Words aren't really enough to express my thankfulness, Lord, but you can read my heart and that is really cool!
• many more on my mind, but makes it too long of a blog
• i love u!

Just Ask

Have you ever been guilty of making an assumption and you just wish you had just asked the right questions? Yea, me too. Why is it easier to assume than ask? I think because asking takes courage, takes effort and I am sometimes not quite sure how to ask. But I have learned over time to ask, as stupid as I think the question may be. I always tell my kids, no question is ever stupid, it's not asking, not getting the facts and then figuring out I was left with my stupid answer, that can make you feel stupid or cause you to get the answer wrong. I want to always be moving toward truth, not half-truth, some-truth, or no truth, but the whole truth and nothing but the Truth!

The Jelly Jam Bowl

Tim and his bro, Phil

Kindal, Tim, Blake, Amber






I love football. I love to watch it on TV, I love to attend games. I love the atmosphere at a game. I love the life lessons that the sport teaches. My love of football comes from my dad. My dad owned his own business and was a workaholic, but the one thing he did do for fun was attend Dolphin and Hurricane games each time they were home. He was a season ticket holder for as long as I can remember. My mom didn't care to attend the games, so many times I got to go. I learned football and for a couple hours each week, I got to spend time with my dad.

So it's pretty cool that now as an adult, that football allows me to spend time with my family. This past Friday, I was able to witness the first Farver vs. Farver high school football game. My husband's high school team played his brother, Phil's team. My nephew, Blake who is a sophomore, plays back-up quarterback. Blake was very excited to get to play against his uncle, and was preparing his team all week with the "Beat Uncle Tim" slogan. He even wanted the cheerleaders to paint it on the banner his team would run through at the beginning of the game. Tim tried to lighten the mood by telling Blake they would play for a jar of grandma's jelly. (Tim's mom makes the best homemade jelly and all the grandchildren will only eat her kind and not store bought. Each Christmas when the box arrives each family hopes they get a lot of strawberry and not apple butter.) It was just a joke and no jelly was exchanged!

It was great to see my sister-in-law and spend time with her during the game. I decided to sit with her on the opposing team's side. I love to cheer the team on and knew I would have to be a tad neutral being on the "other" side. But family is more important than the score. At first, Blake's team was dominating, they scored 2 touchdowns in the first quarter. I was getting a little nervous. Blake was also nervous, after the first score, the starting quarterback hurt his knee. That meant Blake was in to lead his team. He did a great job! He told me after the game he felt a bit overwhelmed, but I told him he surely didn't show it. Tim's team re-adjusted their offense and ended up winning the game 37-14. I was happy for the win, but felt bad for my nephew when I saw the tears in his eyes. He said he wanted to win so bad. He didn't get the win, but I think God has bigger plans for his future. His preparation for the task and the willingness to tackle it is the lesson I saw him learn.

And as far as Tim and his team, their record after this game is 4-0 and ranked number 1 in the state. Not always a good thing this early in the season, the kids can tend to get a little full of themselves. I pray they remain humble and give great effort for the long haul. Because when playoffs begin, it is a whole new ball game.

Camp Beach

If you judge people, you have no time to love them...Mother Theresa

Why is it that we feel we have a right to make a judgement on a situation we know nothing about? Perception is not reality. Judging by outer appearance doesn't mean that is the truth of the matter. Listening to what the crowd thinks, does not allow me to hear His heart. My heart is broken, but is my heart always clean of not finding myself guilty of this. I constantly pray and ask God to allow me to see His people the way that he does. Many times I do. I pray that I never put myself on a platform where I feel I have the right to make the judgement. The ground at the foot of the cross is level. I have learned that if I stop to listen and find out the facts, then most of the time I am moved to show compassion. Jesus always knew to listen. He always was moved towards compassion. He knew what to say when the crowd was ready to start flinging the rocks. He would, he is the son of God. My quest is to learn from His example and then live it. Every life tells a story. A lot of the dirty looking lives are just trying to find their way to the truth. But we who hold the truth get in the way with our "we must be better than you" because we know the way. We are good, you must be bad. When really we are bad, we are no better. I want to have my Father's eyes and understand His heart and see the hurting, the dirty, the in need of the truth. Because I was dirty and really do look just the same to Him, I have just been covered by His blood. It hides the dirt.

I am very excited about tomorrow. It is September 25. Tuesday. (A friend's birthday: Happy B-day HP) & Release day in the music world. I love music!

Two bands currently in my fav top 10, are releasing their latest albums.

Rascal Flatts is releasing their fifth CD. I love their music and the stories that they tell. Their song, "My Wish" was the perfect song for my son's graduation party. I wonder what song will be part of our family this time around.

I am not sure how Crowder is going to top "A Collision", but I am sure Remedy is going to be a keeper. I had heard of Crowder before "A Collision", when the Sunsets and Sushi abum was out, but never purchased any of his music. Then I bought "A Collsion" and was amazed at the musical genious on that album.

I love to listen to writers and musicians talk about their creative process. I think it is so cool to see how a song can come to life. Some songs you just know came from God's heart to the writer's pen or instrument. Music has also been a tool in building relationships with my friends, family, and my Savior. The love of music was something my mother and I shared. Many times music was the only thing my son and I could communicate about during those tough teenager years. And I know Christ speaks to me through music so many times. Music prepares my heart to hear His word. I can't wait to see how these 2 albums will inspire, encourage and just make my day!

People can change, mom!

"People can change, mom!" These are the words of my daughter this past week. These words rang really loud in my ears. I know people can change, I thought. I am a product of change, knowing where I was to where I am now. My calling includes seeing lifechange in people. But this is my daughter and she is talking about a friend, we'll call "friend", who has over the last 2 years hurt who to the point of tears more than once. Hurt her down deep in her heart.
My daughter has decided to enter the friendship again, knowing the past. My first reaction, anger, not too happy about this, I want to protect her from pain. But I can not. This is one of those times of letting go and allowing her to learn. I have given her the advice to guard her heart, observe actions and not just listen to words, actions speak louder. I will be paying close attention from afar, but I so admire her for the ability to forgive and engage again. I am much more guarded. I pray the results this time aren't painful. But the greatest lessons I have ever learn involve pain. God is doing a work in her life. But I also told her insanity is repeating the same behavior with the same results...no this person is not insane; immature, yeah. "Friend" just needs to mature and work on character growth. I admire her for her ability to hope for better results. I again am reminded of how much my Savior loves me, love I can not fathom because I hurt Him so many times and yet he is still right there to be my friend, to forgive, to show me mercy. I believe my daughter has the gift of mercy, I do not. But I am learning! She is learning too, but she doesn't look at it that way. But I know better! The best parenting advice I ever got was that you want to allow your children to go through these issues while under your roof so that you can be there to catch them and guide them through. Allow her to learn a thinking it through and decision making process. She will need this when she is out on her own! So for now she is off the shore and navigating the waters and I know that I can throw the life vest as soon as needed.

Autumn in South Florida

I'm not sure if you noticed, but there is a sense of autumn in the South Florida air. Last night as I was walking, I could feel the breeze. This morning I could smell it in the air. In South Florida, you can't really see the change, leaves don't change colors, the weather temperature doesn't change drastically, but if you pay close attention, you can sense the change. God knew when he created time and seasons, that change was important to his creations growth, it was part of His creativity and He shares it with us, another part of his creation. You never see the creation complain about the change, they trust the creator and seem to welcome the change. I want to trust you Lord like your creation does, even when I can't see it, I want to trust you. I love this time of year!!

Celebrating Life Change

FRC Staff Prayer Meeting

Photos courtesy of Heredes and Miller

Milestones should be celebrated ~ Don't have much time to stop though
Encouragement is important, it gives us the energy to press forward especially when the enemy comes at us and is contantly trying to discourage us from our purpose.
About a week ago I blogged about the buzz of a new series called http://www.mynakedpastor.com/.
I could sense an excitement from the staff, the teamwork of everyone getting ready to launch this series, that God was about to do something special. Well, special He did...
This week at Flamingo we are celebrating that for the first time 8056 people were a part of the weekend services. Each one of those numbers represents a life, a life that God is pursuing to find Him for the first time, to come back home to Him, to grow to add more attributes of His Son each day, to determine the gifts He has given them to use for Him, to repent, to seek forgiveness from Him or someone important in their life, to find peace that passes all understanding.
A cool part of the celebration is that He uses me, he uses us, he uses people to fulfill His purposes. Insecure, sinful, not sure if we have the abilities to do this, people. What a privilege.
I have seen God have His hand on FRC for the past 17 years, He has a purpose for His house to reach the people of South Florida and beyond. The milestones just get sweeter, because to get their does get easier when you see that perservance and obedience are all that He is asking. He goes above and beyond our expectations...at 10am we thought it was 7K (note the number on the cake) but by the afternoon we had learned it was 8K. Now we each have to do our part to help those 8K find their niche in the purpose and plan for FRC to help reach out to the next 8K!

Hope they heard my heart

Sometimes you have something to say, but others say it so much better...this is one of those times. I really believe that finding this blog was a God sent. This blog (see link below) is written passionately about getting real and not playing Christian. I am praying for the students of FRC to catch that vision and the vision of a new way to do small groups to help reach lost and hurting teenagers and for the student of FRC to reach their God potential. The main concept is changing the focus from building holy huddles with those in the church to reaching out to not just those in the church but those on their school campuses that they live their Christianity in front of 5 days a week. I hope you hear Pastor Noble's heart in this blog, it is the heart of God. This world needs the real deal. It needs Jesus Lovers!

http://www.perrynoble.com/2007/09/11/nice-christian-boys-and-girls-make-me-sick

Let them go, for now, not forever

I realized this with my son and now I am back at the same place with my daughter. I knew it would come, it is part of the process. It is just a hard place to be. As parents we are wired to protect. Yet, there comes a time when we have to LET GO. I don't mean not to have boundaries for a teenager, I mean they have to make decisions on their own, and even when we know it may lead to pain, even when they know, we have to LET GO. We have to PRAY and ask for God to protect them. I can not really go into details about what I am watching my daughter deal with, that is not fair to her. And please do not derive worse case scenarios, it is teenage stuff. I was here before with my son and the first time around is hard. I shed tears, prayed, sought wise counsel and prayed some more. I knew the result of the choice may lead to pain, I wanted to protect, but I also had to be very careful that my opinion did not push him away. I still wanted to be a part of his world, but I had to give him his space. Teenagers are supposed to separate away from mom and dad leading every aspect of their life to them finding out how to lead their own way. They are becoming their own person, own belief, own values. You pray they choose what they have been taught. But they have to believe they got their on their own terms. It is a thin line, should I say adamantly, NO. Or should I pray and with some boundaries parent so that she now can navigate this situation to make the right choice. To see what is best for her not just today, but down the road. That is maturity, that is what I am always trying to get them to understand, don't just think for today, but how will this effect me down the road. During the time my son was 16-18 years old, God taught me so much about trusting Him, about letting go and it was about a 2 year process...But I will never forget being in a church service and during worship, one of those few times, I heard God clearly say to me, "Let him go". It was preparation for the day I left him at college many miles away. I have to remember what I have learned from that experience. I have to pray. The day I left my son at college I told him that from that day forward, he was directly under the leadership of God and I was there for guidance, but he needed to go to God for the direction of his life. I am not totally there yet with my daughter, but I trust and know that God loves her more than I do. I just wish right now she understood where I was coming from. She's not supposed to and one day she will. Right now, I may have to take the role of the mean, misunderstood mom. But I know that I answer to God and not to her for my leadership as a mom. My son came around after he left home and he realized I was only looking out for his best interest, I pray she does also. It is just so hard to let her go, but it is the healthy and best thing to do, slowly but surely...Lord, please protect her and let her one day understand how much I love her. It is hard, she is the youngest and shes a girl. I hear you Lord, I am doing the best I can...

A Lonely Island, just sometimes...

Ok, so this isn't easy, getting naked, but I am going to try...for my friends, students, family, I do not write this to be a whiner so please do not feel like you can not call me, write me, come to my home or office, or lean on me for strength...I know that is a big part of my purpose here....but Troy wrote about being lonely in his blog this morning and I can relate. Many times in my life I have felt like an island because I have taken a step one way in my journey and the crowd either laughed, didn't agree, stopped talking to me, etc. I felt alone. I felt like no one understood. Christ did, he has been the only one, everytime, and it has allowed my relationship with Him to grow so strong. But sometimes, you just need "God with skin on"...just someone who can be the strength for you instead of you always being the strength for them. Now see, that sounds like I am complaining, and I am not. I am just being honest and real. I know that God has given me the spiritual gifts of wisdom and discernment for my purpose here on earth and I do not take it lightly. I know that many look at me to be the strength for them and that is ok, I want to. It shows me that all the pain that I have gone through was not in vain, Romans 8:28. I am just saying that because most look at me for that, sometimes when I am looking and I open up or share, they look back at me like oh no, not you, you are strong, why is this bothering you, or she'll be fine, she will figure it out. Sometimes being in leadership you keep so much inside between you and God, it can get lonely and you need God with skin on. But most of time, I think God says, that will come in heaven, for now here on earth, I have called you to be the strong one and it isn't about me, it is all about HIM!! He has done SO much for me, the least I can do is carry this cross...
Check out more about getting naked at www.mynakedpastor.com

Wynonna

If you are a Wynonna fan, let me know by sending a comment to this blog! Just need to know...Thanks!

If you are not, then just keep your comments to yourself! Thanks again!

Unmet Expectations

Today, after 3 years, my daughter finally got her braces off. I am so glad the ordeal is finally over. You probably think I am happy because my hard earned dollars have something to show for them...almost $5K later, she has pretty teeth. But honestly, I am glad because now I will not have to fight with her after every orthodonist visit. See, when they first put them on, we were told 2 years. So last October, 2006 was supposed to be it. But here we are a year later and they were still on. Each month after every visit either on the car ride home or later that day, Amber would just go off with anger, because she wanted them off and she wanted me to make it happen. She wanted me to rant and rave to the doc, like she was doing to me, so he would take them off. She wanted me to rescue her from this horrible plight of metal in her mouth. But I didn't, so she would get angry with me or her dad.
This week at www.mynakedpastor.com, you can check out my Pastor and his family as they allow cameras into their home. Again like I have said before, I give them major PROPS! This takes courage, endurance, etc! Pastor Troy and his wife will teach this weekend on marriage, conflict, fighting, etc. I know they will be transparent in hopes that what they deal with it can help save a marriage in conflict.
Now my conflict over the past year was with my daughter, and for the most part she is a lot of fun to be around, but when her expectations were not met on the date she thought those braces should come off, it was pretty ugly. I do not know if I would want those situations filmed in the car or at home. Isn't that what causes most anger to build, unmet expectations.
Make sure you attend or log in and hear what God has to say through Pastor Troy and Stephanie this weekend at Flamingo Road Church.
I hope to have a photo of Amber and her pearly whites to post soon...We are celebrating, the braces are OFF and the fits of anger cease. I hope she learned patience!

The cameras are always rolling

The buzz word lately at my church is "naked". Everyone is busy getting ready to embrace the new series on authenticity as a Christ follower. It is exciting to see everyone working together for the purpose of helping others find truth. Unchurched to find Christ. It is exciting to know that God will reveal truth to all of us in a different way. Christian to stop playing church.

The question is, can we handle the truth? Are we willing to change to become more like Christ, the Real Christ, not the label of Christianity.

Being authentic in an image driven world isn't always easy. It definitely isnt the popular thing to be doing these days. We, especially in the Western world, are so captivated by reality TV, but in all reality most of it is edited to spin a perception of those the camera follows. I think that if we really knew the bare naked truth about some of the reality personalities, we wouldn't like it. We crave the producers spun image.

Why is it that we seem infatuated by the image of a person's life on camera. But when the truth is shared, we get upset or let down. We tend to like the image and label. We judge based on the media's interpretation by camera and editing to spin the personality to what brings the most drama. Even in real life we can tend to believe the perception and label before we ever try to find out the truth of the matter. The perception, deception is just juicier. Sometimes Truth is boring, but it is what is right and true. The enemy always deals in deception and does his best to keep us living the lie. He loves to spin the storyline.

Are we brave enough to be authentic with our relationships?

I have to give our lead Pastor, Troy Gramling props for allowing cameras into his home. I think I give his wife and kids even bigger props. It sounds like no editing will take place to create an image. That is brave. What you see is what you get. Can you handle it, no judging, no comparing. Those on the outside have an image, but God knows the heart. And if you listen carefully, you can hear it also. I am so glad God is the judge of our heart, the judge of my life. If you listen to Troy's heart, you can hear how he wants to use this series to help lead believers in being REAL and HONEST with themselves, their families and friends, and most importantly GOD. Truth sets them free to reach their God-potential.

The greatest relationship we can ever have is being totally intimate with our Maker, our Father. He knows us intimately, but He waits patiently for us to be willing to be truthful and real with Him. The cameras are always rolling, who are we trying to fool!

Sweet 16

Happy 16th Birthday Amber Rae! Your name alone was chosen before we knew you were our girl. It defines your beauty and the love we both share for sunsets!

You have such a heart of gold! You have taught me about unconditional love. You have shown me how to love the unlovable. You possess the gift of mercy and are so forgiving to friends that have hurt you. You reach out to those that others may not take the time to get to know. That is your soft side. You are never afraid to invite your unchurched friends into your world, you accept them for who they are, no judgement, and many have come to know Christ through your invites to camp.

You can also be very tough on the outside. You are outspoken and never hesitate to share your true feelings with me. You have very expensive taste and I pray daily for the man God will bring into your life. He needs to work hard, have a great job, and love to spoil you rotten. I think Dad set a high standard. He must also love Jesus Christ with all his heart. It is great to see you as you begin your lists of standards for your future. Know that your are worth it, make him woo you!

You always make me laugh, like tonight when you told me you declined the Naked Pastor as your friend on myspace because you thought it was a bad guy, a naked dude trying to become your friend. Then I explained it was Pastor Troy's myspace, your face was priceless. I am still laughing. You have always been an individual who chooses to lead than follow, stand up for those who don't always deserve it, and find the best in all people. Mean people hurt your feelings, they do mine too. You like scary movies, Corey and I both don't understand how and pray the Holy Spirit will convict you :-) We are more different than alike, but God knew your differences would teach me so much about myself and God Himself.

You turn 16 today...It is what I consider the true beginning of independence in your life. I have to start the letting go process. Decision making becomes more of your job now. I am all about guidance, with the keys to the car being held hostage at my discretion. You have already made your appointment on your own to get your driver's license tomorrow morning, that is due to your determination and perserverance. I must pray more than ever as a mother because I can not control all the steps you take, I just pray that I have given you a true and real example of loving others as Christ has done, being true to yourself, acting as a lady should, following God's way and not the world's and pursuing your greatest potential. I know you will. Your gifts have always been so evident from a young age, continue to rely on your strengths and improve your weaknesses. But know that truth will always set you free.

Happy Birthday! I love you, Mom!

Another life touched by Pete

It has been a week since Pete's graduation ceremony. It seems weird how life can just seem to get back to normal. For Holly things will never totally be the same. Time will help to heal, but there will always be something to trigger a memory or cause a tear to fall. Pete touched so many of our lives. His influence with students will last forever. At his graduation party last week, a mom of one of Pete's boys shared a part of the influence that Pete had on her son. Andy began 9th grade yesterday. He had been a part of Pete's table for the past couple of years. Andy is autistic. He doesn't always care for the music during worship, sometimes he has to move around or go to the back of the Student Building because the sounds can be overwhelming. Pete was always so patient with Andy and allowed him the freedom to move around during worship. He did not pass judgement and always tried to treat Andy like all the guys. Andy's mom shared how before he began attending the Middle School service on a regular basis that he would tell his mom that there was no God. He said he did not believe and he never would. She said that he did not want to attend church. Andy's mom explained that with his autism, so many things are black and white and if it can't be proven or seen, Andy had a hard time accepting salvation by faith alone. But, little did Andy know that God had Pete waiting for him at his Middle School table time. Andy's mom said that Pete was the tool that God used to reach Andy's heart and soul. Pete was truly God with skin on to Andy. Because of the relationship that Pete had with Andy, Andy did accept Christ and was able to have the faith to believe in a God he could not see. I asked Andy's mom to please write this all down in a letter to Holly so she can read this in some of the tough days ahead and be encouraged. Pete understood his purpose and potential. He knew that God had created him to reach middle school guys. He was always so confident in this role. God brought Andy's path across Pete's and Pete lived up to his calling, was obedient and God was able to use Pete to reach a young life that at one time adamantly was against God. Now, Andy tells him mom that he can not miss coming to Student Ministry. Andy now attends the High School service and he still moves about during the worship, but its all OK and God will use Andy also to reach his potential for the kingdom. If you pay close attention to Andy, you can see the influence of Pete, Andy will give you great big hugs. Pete always greeted me with a hug! Love ya, Pete. Praying for comfort for you Holly!

What makes a teen happy?

In honor of the First Day Back To School, I found this article on What makes a teen happy?. I know for my teen it wasnt the first day of 11th grade, or the fact that she went to an orthodonist appointment and they still wont let her know when the braces are coming off. She didn't hesitate to share her aggravation with me regarding the orthodontist and her new chemistry class. Believe it or not, the article shares how spending time with family is at the top of a teen's list of what makes them happy. Enjoy the article, and then enjoy some time with your teen listening to how their first day of school went. Despite the fact that they act like they don't want to hang with you, they really want to know that you are interested in their life and spending time listening!


MSNBC article:
Youths’ stuff of happiness may surprise parents
Poll finds family time, not money, is what makes folks 13 to 24 feel chipper


NEW YORK - So you’re between the ages of 13 and 24. What makes you happy? A worried, weary parent might imagine the answer to sound something like this: Sex, drugs, a little rock ‘n’ roll. Maybe some cash, or at least the car keys.
Turns out the real answer is quite different. Spending time with family was the top answer to that open-ended question, according to an extensive survey — more than 100 questions asked of 1,280 people ages 13-24 — conducted by The Associated Press and MTV on the nature of happiness among America’s young people.
Next was spending time with friends, followed by time with a significant other. And even better for parents: Nearly three-quarters of young people say their relationship with their parents makes them happy.
“They’re my foundation,” says Kristiana St. John, 17, a high-school student from Queens in New York. “My mom tells me that even if I do something stupid, she’s still going to love me no matter what. Just knowing that makes me feel very happy and blessed.”
Other results are more disconcerting. While most young people are happy overall with the way their lives are going, there are racial differences: The poll shows whites to be happier, across economic categories, than blacks and Hispanics. A lot of young people feel stress, particularly those from the middle class, and females more than males.
You might think money would be clearly tied to a general sense of happiness. But almost no one said “money” when asked what makes them happy, though people with the highest family incomes are generally happier with life. However, having highly educated parents is a stronger predictor of happiness than income.
And sex? Yes, we were getting to that. Being sexually active actually leads to less happiness among 13-17 year olds, according to the survey. If you’re 18 to 24, sex might lead to more happiness in the moment, but not in general.
From the body to the soul: Close to half say religion and spirituality are very important. And more than half say they believe there is a higher power that has an influence over things that make them happy. Beyond religion, simply belonging to an organized religious group makes people happier.
And parents, here’s some more for you: Most young people in school say it makes them happy. Overwhelmingly, young people think marriage would make them happy and want to be married some day. Most also want to have kids.
Finally, when asked to name their heroes, nearly half of respondents mentioned one or both of their parents. The winner, by a nose: Mom.
Happiness is ...“...two kinds of ice cream,” according to the song from “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” John Lennon, more darkly, described it as a warm gun. A much more typical description comes from Stacy Rosales, a 23-year-old recent college graduate, who calls it “just a general stress-free feeling where I’m not really worried about anything. THAT makes me happy.”
For Chad Fiedler, 17, it’s “just waking up in the morning and looking forward to what I’m going to be doing that day.” And for Eoshe Roland, a 14-year-old from Nashville, it’s “playing trumpet in my school band.”
However you express, define or feel it, 65 percent of those surveyed say they’re happy with the way things are going for them right now.