Two steps

I Want a New Look

2008-11-26T15:11:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know, many have asked me, WHERE HAVE I BEEN? with my blog updates. I am working on change and wanted a new look for my blog. (I have also been working on my new look of losing weight, guess how much) I hoped to have it by now, but I don't. So don't judge me, it is coming. Many of those that can help me make this new change have been busy also with leading out on a revolution. So in the meantime, as I create and design the new look that I want, while don't you log onto http://www.thegiftrevolution and begin a change in your heart, life and the hearts and lives of others!!! What gift can you give?

New Neighbors

2008-09-25T16:06:00.000-07:00

In the last week, the FRC Media team has moved their offices and become neighbors of TheRUSH Student Ministry. We were so excited to get new neighbors and have company next door!! So as a "Welcome to the Neighborhood" gift, TheRUSH made brownies to welcome the gang! Today, Heredes delivered a tray full of Little Debbies with a sign saying TO: The SugarRUSH - FROM: Media Team! Don't be surprised if we re-gift them for the holidays back to you!

Thank you Heredes, Mo, Ian and the rest of the crew! We love having visitors and company!!!

Beginning of an AWESOME Fall at FRC!

2008-09-16T16:42:00.000-07:00

This past weekend at Flamingo Road Church was awesome! God is so good and I am always honored to be a part and be able to witness HIS goodness. Here are some highlights:

My friend, Kim, came to service with me!
Fall Family Fun Night + cotton candy/snocones = FUN and LOTS of people! Come back this coming weekend for more of that on Saturday night (5pm or 6:30pm)
Pastor Troy holding hands with those choosing to follow Christ - glimpse of heaven!
Loads and loads of food and water donated to Help Us Help Haiti (see pics below)

TheRUSH Student Ministry rockin as we added back the 2nd service on Saturday night
Meeting tons of new parents and students as they came to TheRUSH - 47 visitors
Watching Jake, Patti, Nate and Corey get antiqued by Scot each hour (see pic below)

And drum roll, please - TheRUSH Cooper City hitting a high of 571 students!

Can't wait til next weekend, it only gets better!

Takes Courage

2008-09-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

Most of the time in pop culture, freedom of speech is an accepted freedom by the masses when one speaks. Especially speaking about controversial issues or those of moral decay. But the second someone tries to speak in favor of having boundaries or standing up for a value that is followed by the minority, those words seem to get edited. Not this time. The great thing about MTV award shows is that they are usually live and most of what they say goes unedited. At the VMA's, Jordin Sparks, was not edited and was able to make a statement in favor of having standards.

What did she say?
"It's not bad to wear a promise ring, because not everybody, guy or girl, wants to be a slut,"

Why did she say it?:
In response to the host, Russell Brand about his jokes made toward the Jonas brothers for their choice to save sex for marriage and wear promise rings.

She did later admit, that she felt bad for using the word, slut and she did not intend to come off as being judgmental. Those were not her intentions. BUT, most of the time, even if a young person is thinking or feeling that what they believe in is being challenged or made fun of, it takes courage to stand up and speak out.

3 Summer Highlights

2008-08-28T14:46:00.000-07:00

At Middle School summer camp - my niece (on the right)attended her first camp and this is a moment after Scot shared the salvation message when the students went outside with leaders to discuss their decisions. Patti, (in the middle) had the girls, lay down to observe God's majesty in the stars and talk about their step. Patti was once here, over 5 years ago, when she attended a winter camp and made that move towards the cross, and now she leads. Can I just say how proud I am of both of them! Love you girls, LOTS!!!!!

It was great to hang with my sister(2nd on right) when she came down for our niece's wedding. Cool thing about this, our niece Diana, (the bride) and niece Megan (1st on right) are our 2 stepsister's daughters. My father was only married to their mother for 6 years and she didn't care too much for my sister and I, but out of the journey God was able to give us relationships with our stepsister's daughters. My sister actually raised Megan until she was 8 years old. Megan considers her Aunt Wendy like a mom. Sometimes marriages may end, but the journey and who we meet on the way, can be intentionally set up by God to test our ability to forgive and love our enemies. A lot of forgiveness had to come out of those 6 years, but what an opportunity I would have missed if I had chosen not to forgive, thank God He gives me the strength and example to do this.

Amber turned 17!!!! I am very proud of her! She is a Senior, Class of '09! And I am hoping this year goes by slow...yeah, right! Like I have told her, she is going to one day be one of my best friends!!!

Room Reveal

2008-08-27T17:43:00.001-07:00

Words can't even express how excited we all were on Saturday night...we locked the doors and the students were not allowed in until service began. I felt like it was Christmas morning and the kids were about to open "the gift"! The students ran in ohhing and ahhing with excitement. The WOW factor had taken affect! We had shown them through our hard work, how special they are to Jesus, how much He loves them! We were His hands and feet, His heart with our gift of a REALLY cool new room (Thank you Pastor Scot for your vision and for stirring creativity among the team) This past weekend we hit 500, we had 43 first time guests, 30 students accepted Christ, and 5 or 6 that were baptized. Today, I had a volunteer call all the others, inviting them to take the plunge at our next Beach Baptism, September 28. Here are the after photos, pics really don't do it justice...

A close-up of the walls: the design and skateboard walls. To the left of this is our new 1st time guest room/decision room.

Remember that baptistry wall, here it is complete with the skateboards...
From the back of the room, the columns even got a facelift
The entire stage, from the back of the room, how many TV do you see?
Front of the stage - metal and top of skateboards

Besides the room makeover, the energy in each service is off the charts, students are not sure which way to look, but as Pastor Scot says, We do all this to earn the respect to speak into their lives. I once had a thought how cool it would be to do camp style services each weekend, instead of waiting for that one week in the summer, we are the church, let's make it cool to come to the church, not just the camp, and now God has created and sent the visionary to lead this! Try and come by and check it out and if you are a parent - get your kids here, seriously!!!!

Busy Summer ended with a Bang!

2008-08-27T17:01:00.000-07:00

The last 10 days have been spent renovating the Student Ministry Building, having a Grand Opening Weekend, and celebrating God's gift to us for hard work, briefly as we began again getting ready for this coming weekend! Summer will officially end this coming weekend and what a summer it has been for me personally and professionally. There have been highs and lows, but God has got the glory and this past weekend, words and pictures can not even do it justice. The next few entries will be some of the highlights! I will try and tell the story with more photos, less words (so you will stay engaged!) I want to get them all in before September 1, so I can begin the Fall looking ahead and not feeling like I missed sharing an exciting God moment in my life. Below are pics of BEFORE and DURING the renovation. We had over 15-20 volunteers come up each day last week and help out, despite Tropical Storm Fay potentially hitting us. No students were allowed to help or see the room! Thank you to everyone who prayed, gave, painted, taped, lost sleep, etc!

The walls were primed and designed with stencil art! The top will be designs inspired by a pair of Quiksilver boardshorts and the bottom is metal paint (cheaper than real metal)!

Some of the guys enclosing the old baptistry (My son was baptized there, ahhh!)Nestor and Josh putting metal on the front of the stagePastor Scot spackling the enclosure that will become black and hold lots of cool skateboards!!
Next post - AFTER PICS!!

Lead where you are

2008-08-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

Many times in my life I find myself so focused that it seems frustrating to stop and re-focus. But after the last 2 days, I am so glad that I did. My heart is full, my brain is overflowing with tips, stories and knowledge, and my bum is sore from sitting so long. I have learned over my life that when it seems hard or it is something that takes the extra effort to accomplish, it will probably be really worth it. Attending and serving at the Leadership Summit was definitely worth it and not a waste of my time. It was great to see those invited, attend. It was great to meet new friends and share with them the ups and downs of leadership, but also how God always provides. My favorite speakers at the summit: Craig Groeschel, Gary Haugen, and Catherine Rohr.

With so much information received at an event like this, I always ask the Lord for one truth to walk away with and apply to my life - Being willing to try, even when I fail, means that I succeed, because I do not give up. So many of the leaders that spoke shared this one truth in some way or another - they never gave up!!! Shake it off!

Another spiritual truth I sensed God speaking: That I, as part of the American church, am being challenged to sacrifice for the sake of the cross and it's message. Am I willing? What am I willing to give up to help another life?

Check out potentialblog.com to get re-caps from each speaker.

Transition

2008-08-03T19:55:00.001-07:00

This past summer has been one of transition for every one in my family. The transition began back in February when my son called me and asked what I thought if he were to come home and finish his last 2 years of college back in SFLA. He had been trying to get a job in the midwest and having a hard time as a student who leaves each summer. My husband and I also saw how the college bills were climbing, but knew he was in God's hand. My advice, take the steps and see what doors God opens or closes. When Corey arrived home for the summer, his acceptance letter to FIU was in the mailbox. He will only miss one aspect, not dressing out for football in a week or so, but he knows God has him right where He wants him. Next, my husband is starting a new job this week. It has been a summer of trust and faith as he was out of work for a couple months, but God is good and Tim will continue to do what he loves teaching and coaching teenagers at the same time attending night school for college credits. Amber will begin Cooper City High after being in private school for the past 3 years. This is her Senior year and this is her decision to move schools. She made this decision before Tim knew for sure he would change schools. She knows the friends she left in middle school will be different after 3 years, but she hopes to begin a girl mentoring group and try in her last year of high school to make a positive difference in the life of teenage girls. I love her heart and passion for this. And for me, my office looks totally different, not just the color or furniture, but the peeps also. God has changed things and allowed change, now we must all be obedient as we enter this next chapter. I am very excited to be on this team that God has assembled, both at home and at work. And just the fact that it is Amber's senior year is a little overwhelming and unbelieveable. God has proved His Word again...Luke12:24, Romans 8:28, I Peter 5:6-11. Thank you! I am grateful!

PreSeason

2008-08-03T19:45:00.000-07:00

Came in tonight after running errands and visiting family and the sounds of football were coming out of my TV! The sounds of the commentators is really a soothing sound to my ears. It means school is about to start, a new fall season will begin not just on the field, the holidays are around the corner, tailgating, family, friends, jerseys, win, lose, life lessons, FUN!

Jumprope=Endurance

2008-08-01T20:35:00.001-07:00

June, 2008 - Journal Entry during High School Camp

Never did I imagine spending hours on end watching students jump rope would be the highlight of summer camp for me and for the students:
First day they decided to end it early, giving up their free time the next day, but not their dinner
Second day they jumped again, did not reach their goal, Soooo, we adults
jumped to help motivate and show if we can do it, they can do. It was so much fun!!!
Third day they pushed, cheered and encouraged and they DID IT! I am sure they heard us celebrating from miles away.

Lesson learned - to pull together as a team and never give up to reach the goal, no matter how long it takes, sometimes it may seem like a lifetime.
Along the way - the enemy will try and trip you up For example: On the third day, some psychic fools tried to hypnotize some of our students...

Little did I know at this time that Endurance would be the theme of my summer!

Suitcase Silence

2008-07-30T20:26:00.000-07:00

For the past 5 weeks I have lived out of my suitcase. And I purposely took a break from blogging and turned to journaling the events of my summer. I even turned my cell phone off for over a week...I know it was quiet if you were around me, no dinging from text messages or phone calls. Over the next few days and week, I will blog about some of my journal entries. The average age of my travel buddies were 14-15 years old, the farthest I traveled was over 2600 miles and the shortest distance was 10 miles, I spent time with friends, family, mentors and those I mentor, change was constantly a part of my summer and again I was faced with trusting Christ when I did not see or understand or choosing to panic in the unknown. I can say that coming out on the other side and seeing August just one day away, hope is always in the future when He holds you in the center of His hands, circumstances can never determine your joy, movement forces balance in your life, yes, if you sleep you wake up a day older, but rest allows the body to rejuvenate and feel younger, change is constant and don't you love new beginnings...moving two steps closer to reaching my God-potential!

Sleepless Summer Nights

2008-06-13T10:48:00.000-07:00

I know, Summer is the time to rest, re-charge, rejuvenate and get ready for the fall. But I have to be honest, my summers do not tend to look that way. One reason is working in Student Ministry means summer is the time you can have more time with them and to have larger and traveling events. And the other is my own kids, well, the schedule goes out the window since they do not have to get up for school. And once they started to drive, I could not go to sleep until I knew they were back safe and sound in the house. It is still that way, so nights get longer, days seem shorter. I know it is summer and daylight last longer, but it doesn't feel that way. I am not complaining, just sharing a truth that I am currently experiencing. It is great and I wouldn't trade it. Another aspect is with a college age son, all his friends come back home from school and hang out at the house. They tend to begin arriving around 10pm, which means they could leave anywhere from 3-4 hours later. I like that they hang here, you visit with them, see where they are, how their life is going...last night we had about 5 of them here and it was so much fun hearing them reminisce about high school pranks and friendships. I know one day, this stage will change, it will get quieter, I may get more sleep. But I need to be careful what I wish for, because my heart really desires to be a part of their life and I am thankful that they allow me in. For now, I will take my sleepless summer nights, winter is coming...

Getting Ready...

2008-06-13T09:39:00.000-07:00

It's that time...Summer Camp. In 3 days we leave for Middle School camp for a week, we come home, for 1.5 days and leave again. The past few months we have prayed and planned and this past week, our new Student Pastor began, so we were very busy pulling together our planning with his vision. I am personally so excited for what is about to happen, not only at camp, but every weekend in Student Ministry. So, stay tuned to see what happens when the Rush and the Road collide...it is going to be CRAZY!

Life, like a beach!

2008-06-02T18:13:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, I was headed to the beach to have some me&God time. As I drove there, I noticed rain clouds to the east, and thought to myself, maybe I should turn around. I hoped it was not raining at the beach. I began to pray and ask God to please let the sun be shining at the beach. As I drove through the cloudy area, I thought to myself, that this scenario is so much like life. We head out in the direction that God is calling and we face storms, we face dark skies, we face clouds. But in order to reach the destination God is wanting us to get to, we have to keep going, we can not give up, we can not turn around, we have to keep going towards the goal and through the storm. I kept driving and as I hit AIA, I could see ahead that the sky was gorgeous, there was sunshine, no clouds. It was a beautiful beach day. I set up my chair on the ocean's edge and was so glad that I did not turn around!

This past weekend, I had the same experience...Thursday was a tough day, a cloudy day. But I have seen many a tough day and knew that I had to keep going. On Friday night, the Life Development ministries (Preschool, Children and Student) hosted a volunteer appreciation dinner called Ovations and it was such a great time. We had over 250 volunteers attend and we were able to pour into their lives by encouraging and entertaining them for all they do each weekend. Then Saturday morning, Garland and I met with the High School mission team bright and early at Starbucks. Bob Selecky joined the group as Garland prepares the team to get ready to go minister to the people in Peru and visit our campus - FRC Lima! I was then blessed by Lili to be able to accompany some middle and high school girls to a fashion show at Signature Grand, it was so much fun! The weekend services at FRC were great and then the finale of an evening was Beach Baptism and the concert at Hollywood beach.

Not only did I get to hang out with students and family, but I was given the privilege to baptize Nina! Nina is a lady that I met at Starbucks back in December. I invited her to church and then one weekend as I stood in the front for a pastor moment, she came forward. When I was in Starbucks a couple weeks ago, she was so excited to tell me that she was getting baptized at the next Beach Baptism. As I stood in the water and looked into the crowd, I saw her waving at me, Wow! And Matt, BJ and I had the awesome privilege of baptizing her.

Life has it's tough times, it's cloudy days, but what if I would have turned back, given up. I would not have been given the opportunity to witness the power of God.

The power of God as I sit at the shoreline.

The power of God as I watch a life change.

The power of God as He grows and stretches my faith.

I will not relent, I will not give up, I will keep driving through the clouds to the beach. But, Lord, I can not do it without you or your strength!

Thank you for an awesome weekend! Thank you for not giving up on me!

Inside Out

2008-05-30T08:50:00.000-07:00

I get these Daily Words each day...this is the one I got this morning...

Friday, May 30, 2008
Good morning. Are you looking for advancement? Do you want a boost in life? Sometimes we need to check our giving habits. Are you an occasional giver? A systematic giver? A Tither??? Remember giving and receiving are one and the same. Giving is just receiving inside out. If things are held up in your life... Remember this principle.. Life gives to the giver and takes from the taker...

How appropriate for this weekend of commitment...

Focus

2008-05-29T21:00:00.000-07:00

When I have a bad day, I do my best to not stay focused on the circumstances...

Keep busy, focus on others, focus on Christ, be still...

As I began to write a prayer request for myself, I felt selfish, erased it...hard to ask for help when others have it worse...

And began to pray for Linda Handy, the Gramling family, Lauren Anderson's mom, Sean Honeycutt, the children that are hungry today, those that have suffered a loss of a loved one...

I know that God always sees me through, I know the enemy is never going to relent when I am trying to be obedient and follow God's lead, to help His children, to be a light in a dark world...

And as I write this I can hear the laughter from my living room filled with my kids and their friends as they visit with a friend that was gone in the Air Force for the past year and a half...and returned safely.

I am blessed! And I must claim my new fav verse - "Rejoice in the Lord, always and again I say Rejoice!"

Say (what you need to)

2008-05-27T21:15:00.000-07:00

Over the past few months, I have watched some of my closest friends lose their parents.
I got word today that another friend has lost his mom.
We pray for another as his mom and dad face health and life threatening issues.
I guess it is that time in our life that these situations begin to occur.

Life is a cycle, they care for us, we care for them or send them on to the Father. This past weekend, my inlaws were 4 hours away, it was a priority we go and spend some quality time with them. I lost both my parents when I was 30, so I do have empathy and know what my husband will one day have to deal with - every extra moment matters.

One of the lessons that I learned from the loss of my parents at an unexpected time in our lives is best summed up by John Mayer in his song, Say:
Take out of your wasted honor
Every little past frustration
Take all your so called problems
Better put 'em in quotations
Say what you need to say (x7)
Say what you need to saaaay...
Walking like a one man army
Fighting with the shadows in your head
Living out the same old moment
Knowing you'd be better off instead
If you could only
Say what you need to say (x7)
Say what you need to saaay...
Have no fear
For giving in
Have no fear
For getting over
You better know that in the end
It's better to say too much
Then never to say what you need to say again
Even if your hands are shaking
And your faith is broken
Even as the eyes are closing
Do it with a heart wide open... wide...
Say what you need to say (x7)
Say what you need to
Say what you need to
Say what you need to say

My sister and I had sat down with my dad to say some things and hopefully find humility and forgiveness, that is not what happened, pride played a big part in why, and 2 years later as he lay in a hospital bed, he was unable to speak, I saw the regret in his eyes. God has given us the gift of words and language, we must use it to find our way to love, peace and forgiveness. We are sometimes all each other has...so say what you need to say...say what the Holy Spirit nudges you to say...do it with a heart wide open, you will have no regrets and God may just use those words to bring love, peace, and forgiveness - then HE is glorified!

Click here to see video of John Mayer's song.

At the Car Wash...

2008-05-20T11:47:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, we held a Car Wash at the Cooper City campus of Flamingo Road Church. We are having these car washes at all of our campuses to help children and teenagers earn money for camp. The pictures to the left are from Pastor Arturo's perspective as he drove thru and got his car washed. For only $5, his car got washed, and he played a part in helping to change a life and have a kid take one step closer to Jesus. Wow, ALL that for just $5. Thank you, Arturo! Thank you also to the other parents and leaders that brought out their cars.

The next one at Cooper City is June 7 from 9am-12noon. Doral will be having one this coming Saturday, May 24 from 9am-12noon at Ronald Reagan High School. Hallandale had one last weekend, also and I believe they are planning to do it again. Sawgrass is planning one also. (I will post the dates and times). Which ever campus you attend, check with the Student or Children Campus Pastor and go out and support the next generation!!!

Crazy Love

2008-05-19T16:03:00.000-07:00

I am reading this new book, called Crazy Love - Overwhelmed by a Relentless God. It is written by Francis Chan. I highly recommend it to everyone. It has radically changed my way of thinking about God and His love for me. It really is hard to comprehend in my human mind, how much He loves me. I have seen in my life how He pursues me and never gives up on me. This book reasurres me and excites me for what is ahead in my relationship with my loving Father. Here are some highlights from what I have read so far:

"It is important that we not measure our spiritual health by those around us, who are pretty much like us."
"Jesus call to committment is clear: he wants all or nothing."
"For years I gave God leftovers and felt no shame...took my eyes off scripture and instead compared myself to others...the bones I threw had more meat than what others threw...I figured I was doing fine"

That is only up to Chapter 5...(I have so far to go, not just in chapters)...

Go to http://www.crazylovebook.com/ and check out the video discussions Francis Chan does for each chapter. You will begin to see God in such a Big way, and Be still and listen, you will hear Him, also. And it will revolutionize your thinking of putting Him first and yourself second. It is a hard concept for the flesh, but it is the base of Christianity. I want this crazy love and I know this prepares me for eternity in heaven with Him! Isn't that what it is all about?

HB KIM!

2008-05-13T19:30:00.000-07:00

Today is my life long friend's birthday. We met in gym class when we were in the 8th grade. I was at a time in my life that my parent's had just divorced and my mom was living with a guy that was pretty shady. Most of my friend's parents would not allow them over my house or to spend the night, (as a parent I agree now, it just hurt then). She was the only friend that was allowed to come into my house or spend the night. Despite my circumstances, she did not judge me. She will never know how much that meant to me. We went to our first concert together at 12 years old (Eagles, Doobie Brothers and Jimmy Buffet). Leif Garrett was the big teen idol at the time (we got jipped) and we were both fans, we followed him all over town behind the Y-100 van. We took yearbook class together. We spent many a weekend at the skating rinks. All summer long we took the city bus to the beaches and practically lived there. We once took her mother's car without asking, she never knew. We both had a crush on the same guy, she just never told me til after we were both married to someone else. We were in each other's wedding. I am her son's godmother and she is mine. We have laughed together, cried together, dealt with step monster mom and dads together, loved to go to concerts and the mall together, had fun at the 20 year class re-union together, even though I graduated from a different high school. When I was 15 and got hit by a car, she was the only friend that was still by my side 6 months later when I had to wear a body cast and didn't quite fit in with the average 16 year old. And now 32 years later, she is still here in my life, she knew me when and she still loves me unconditionally. Happy Birthday BFF or as my daughter now says, Bestie!

Injustice

2008-05-13T18:24:00.000-07:00

I have lived in Cooper City for the past 6 years, moving here from Pembroke Lakes. I know, real far move. In those 6 years, I have never once been pulled over by a police officer. It is not because I am a perfect driver, I am not. But a friend of mine has been pulled over 4 times in the last 2 years. 3 out of the 4 times were unjustified, and this last time was just uncalled for because not only did a state trooper pull him over, the officer grabbed him and forcefully bullied him off his motorcycle. I know you think that oh, he must have done something to deserve it or provoke it, but he didn't. He just looks different than the cop and he is a minority. I do not know what this feels like to be profiled by the local police. I probably am or have been judged for what I look like, but I will never deal with this kind of judgement. I think this kind of behavior breaks the heart of my Heavenly Father. I think we will all face judgment for how we have treated or judged others that are different from ourselves. Lord, help me to see them the way you do. And forgive this police officer for his anger and resentment towards those different than him.

Loving Father Approach

2008-05-06T14:42:00.000-07:00

So, yeah, I have been away, back, started new series here at FRC all over the past 10 days! Got to visit my sister and go to an awesome conference lead by Reggie Joiner and the Northpoint team. The conference focused on encouraging and empowering preschool, children and student pastors and leadership. So many God-things happened on this trip, in my world and ministry over the past 10 days. I will do my best to blog about them all. The conference had awesome key speakers including, Louie Giglio, Andy Stanley and Francis Chan. I wanted to share the key points of Reggie Joiner's message on the first night. The title of his message was:

Prodigal Generation

His first question was what drives some churches to be different?

Was it: strategy, truth or message, community, leadership, family, creativity, Holy Spirit

He answered, No to all of the above.

He said what makes a church distinctively different is do they treat every prodigal the way a loving father would treat his own son.

He read from Luke 15:11-31 and he also emphasized verses 1&2 in Chapter 15 that read: "this man welcomes sinners and eats with them"

2 Different approaches to sin (lost son)

1. Approach of Jesus and the Loving Father OR 2. Approach of Pharisees and older brother

Loving Father approach

1. Pre-occupied with who is missing

Want church to not be about who we want to keep, but about who we want to reach.

2. Operate from a context of forgiveness

We live in a generation that wants to feel better about doing bad stuff, let's teach them to understand change and forgiveness

3. Throw parties - smart dads know how to build ministry around forgiveness and celebration

4. Confront Older brother thinking

5. Keep the lights on for as long as it takes

Older brother approach

1. Pre-occupied with themselves

2. Operate from a context of shame

3. Throw fits - % of church has people mad about something

4. Criticize loving Fathers thinking

5. Shut the door and turn off the lights

Build people that decide to treat every prodigal like a loving Father.

Why?

1. Jesus made it a priority

2. Because you are a model and need to lead it.

3. Because you know a prodigal

Before we even ask the question about what kind of church do we attend, how about what kind of thinking do we tend to move towards personally, loving Father or older brother? We all can take steps to be more like Jesus!

With Empathy

2008-04-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

Today I received the news that Kelly Robertson lost her mom. I lift you, Kelly and Garland to the arms of our Father that He comfort and get you through this time. I lost my parents 9 months apart, one expected to go, one unexpected. I was mad at God for the unexpected death and it took longer to heal. I know this was not part of our plan, but I know God was not caught by surprise. Now I pray for healing for Kelly and Garland. I also pray that friends and family come in and become strength for them during this time. One thing I experienced was always being strong for everyone and when it was time for others to be strong for me, I had a hard time finding them. Thank God I had Him, but during this time especially in life, you need God with skin-on. I am so sorry, Kelly! I know how hard it is to lose your mom...

Two to Consider

2008-04-25T18:21:00.000-07:00

I am almost done reading a really good book by Bob Franquiz...if you haven't read it, check it out. The book is an easy read about the life of John the Baptist. How one man paved the way for a revolution-led by God. Wouldn't you like to be a part of paving the way for a revolution? a God sized one!!

I am also listening to an audio book by Joel Osteen. There is one great gift that God gave Joel, he is an encourager and he always see the glass half full. When I want to be filled up, I listen to Joel, he speaks positive, godly, wise words into my life and he makes me SMILE :-) I think God gave him that gift also...

I will be done with both of these soon, so if you have any good recommendations, send them this way. I have a few ideas of my own, but love ideas from others!!

Shake it like a Earthquake!!

2008-04-18T07:53:00.000-07:00

I thought he was kidding when he texted me that there had been an earthquake last night. I texted him back, "Are you serious, it is a little late for April fools?!". (We usually try and get each other on April 1-best one so far, we stole his car and he thought it was really gone, tell ya about that later.) Anyway,my son was not kidding, last night in southeastern Illinois there was an earthquake that measured 5.2. He said that he felt his bed shake and he thought it was it his roommates fooling around or running and jumping in the bunk. But when he got in class this morning they explained it was an earthquake that he and his college had experienced. I never knew they had earthquakes in the midwest, I learned something today. I checked the weather channel and sure enough they were talking about the earthquake that happened east of St Louis. (Corey is 60 miles east of St Louis) And again, I was reminded that I have no control over most things and I thanked God that He protected my son. I can not worry or fear because God has my life in His hands and I am so glad that my son has decided to put his life in His hand's also. God is in control and I hope your focus is on Him and you are busy about His plans for your life...! We are not promised tomorrow, so do IT today, whatever IT is for U!

Tips to Survive Summer with your Teens

2008-04-17T11:35:00.001-07:00

Check out this link: Flamingo Road Church Cooper City Campus Blog

for 10 great tips on surviving the summer with your middle and high school student!

I love teenagers and thank God every day He gives me the opportunity to help them reach their God-potential!!!!!! And I have to remember when my own teenagers are hard to love, he gave them to me first to help reach their God-potential. It's ok mom and dad, you will survive the teenager years and FRC Student Ministry is here to help, I tell myself that all the time :-)~! And my 20 year old son is proving to me that even when he did not want to cooperate, it paid off to stand strong, despite the occasional attitude. Trust me, God has empowered you and I to do this job and He promises that if we do our part, He will do his best to give them hope & a future!

Weekend Whirlwind

2008-04-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

This past weekend was jam packed, but very productive, here's a glimpse.

led my first Memorial service this Friday night; thank you to Janis for being there to sing and hold my hand :-), such a privilege and I don't think you ever forget the first time God stretches you in a new area of serving Him with your gifts...

helped host a couple as they interview for the Student Pastor position, I am so proud of how we treat guests who visit FRC.

went to a baby shower for twins in the courtyard, great job hosting, Kelly and Jenn...

5 Student services - Matt taught HS, we had one campus team with 27 girls, I taught 2 MS services, students collaborated and thought of how to raise money so others wouldn't have to eat my illustration of dirt, olive oil and salt, the best idea won a prize!

we had 2 new subwoofers in SM, and this week more to come...thank you, thank you to those that donated to help our sound system.

a couple weeks ago, I was privileged to be standing at the end of a service in the main auditorium to pray with those that wanted prayer, my old neighbor was one who came forward in tears, wanting prayer for a circumstance in her life; this weekend I was able to run into her again at FRC and she told me how God did not answer her with what she thought she wanted, but she had such peace about the decision. I am so excited to see her trusting in God's answers for her life.

was privileged to meet Jeff Mason from England, he was here visiting with Brian Vasil. He is a member at our internet campus and I felt so honored to meet him and to think he came all this way, that is AWESOME!!

we had our TEAM luncheon for SM, good turnout considering Senior FIT and Passion were also both this weekend. I am so proud of how the SM volunteers have stepped up in a big way to lead the students at FRC! We celebrated their commitment! Did you know Nestor and Eric both wear brown shorts to work?

A 10th grade student leader was recruiting another leader to help with MS small groups; yes, he gets it!

SM numbers moved in the right direction, up from last weekend, and we had another 35 first time guests.

My husband and I finally did our taxes, way to cut it close by 2 days

Came home after a very long weekend and my daughter was doing major spring cleaning of the home, yes! I love having a 16 year old girl, my son never had that house cleaning gift, I think it is a girl thing to get in cleaning moods!

Ended the weekend with a fun dinner with friends, thanks for all the laughter Matt and Kathy, you were the life of the par-tay!

Yeahh!!

2008-04-09T19:17:00.000-07:00

They sang, "Shout to the Lord" on American Idol - Idol Gives Back! YEAHHHH!! Power and Majesty, Praise to the King!!!!

I didn't hear it from the beginning, did they say

HIS NAME - JESUS!!!???

Add to your "Summer To Do list"!

2008-04-09T18:07:00.000-07:00

So if you are planning a summer trip to Disney and you do not know about this...get ready, this will excite you. I learned something new from an elementary age student, (see you can learn from anyone.) Since my kids are older now we haven't gone to Disney in awhile, but I have a new found curiosity to go back just to begin the scavenger hunt. You can get the Hidden Mickeys book for about $10 and it offers clues to help you find where all these icons are located. Karli and her family explained to me that as they were on the hunt, the Disney Cast Members were more than hospitable to allow them into some off limit areas. I also heard that this makes the time fly as you wait in the lines for the attractions and search for them...so creative an idea, leave it to Walt! I am sure Brian Vasil knew this wealth of knowledge, but he keeps it to himself, hmm!

Good and bad, happy and sad!

2008-04-07T19:58:00.000-07:00

A lot has happened over the past 10 days, both good and bad, both happy and sad, thank God we get to do life with one another...

Garland lost his father to cancer; the guys went up to the funeral, pray for him and his family, these days after the ceremonies are the hardest, and you never truly understand that, until you lose a family member.
The great thing about FRC is that we LOVE to Celebrate our God-given victories, here are most of the ladies on staff after we freaked out HP. Thanks to Michelle Kahn, I saw her gift of hospitality in action!

Speaking of celebrations, Student Ministry has had 70 first time visitors over the past 2 weeks of Spring Break! We have been strategic to get them there, we have to be very strategic to keep them, and we love THE BED series not only because it is awesome, but it causes some parents to not mind the battle of telling their teenager they WILL go to Student Ministry!

Praying for the Mackey family, they are dealing with some serious family issues, they have been faithful to Student Ministry, praying for God's grace and wisdom at this time.

Jenn and Jonathan got married this past Friday night! Congrats! She was a beautiful bride and I loved how she used part of Pastor Troy's message in her video montage! Very creative!

We are getting some new sound equipment in SM, :-). The students practice hard, they are faithful to serve weekends on end, and now we can celebrate all their hard work as we worship together with loud teenage sound.

Noel and Jimbo got engaged this past Saturday night! The greatest thing about this is that God has allowed a celebration to come into the Robertson home at a time that they still grieve. It helps to re-focus some of the pain. Congratulations, I am so excited!!!

More happy than sad, more good than bad...I try to focus on the positives! I have to remember that HE is FAITHFUL AND GOOD, ALL THE TIME!

Triple Threat Thursday

2008-03-27T16:27:00.001-07:00

Today FRC Student Ministry hit the streets in Cooper City. After some collaborative thinking with the Student staff, we came up with the idea to go TO the students. Our first mission was to canvas the shopping center that they hit on early release days, so we began with Cooper City High School/Pioneer Middle School area. We offered a free item from Tijuana, Starbucks, or Coldstone, added Duce the DJ with loud tunes and WOW, instant party. The students really liked it and they were so surprised to receive a free gift, no strings attached. We had some of our core students handing out the coupon card and talking to kids about Flamingo Road Student Ministry. Of course, with teenagers and loud music, the police stopped by to say they had received a complaint. Once we explained to the police what we were doing, they were cool, just asked us to turn the music down a tad. Some people just do not like to see young peope have a good time. No harm was being done, and the free items and music were drawing a crowd inside of each of the 3 locals. FRC teens passed out almost 300 cards and created a curiousity for these students to come check us out. If we could get 10-25% of them, not a bad return. More than that, I hope they saw teenagers just like them, who are willing to take a stand for Jesus Christ and not be odd for God! We are planning the next one near a different set of schools and for football season we have an idea to do an outreach event called "Fifth Quarter" and find the places the students frequent after football games and, what a concept, meet up with them on their territory!

Easter Weekend Highlights

2008-03-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

* Over 20 Students came to every service and helped hand out free Peep candy/promo cards for Student Ministry. Check out the cool blue T-shirt Grace has on, spray paint and stencils!
* Students serving as Bunnies, in Preschool, Children, Parking, Greeting, Serving Communion* Students and Student leaders singing in the choir (Amber, Tyler G, Carson, Rachel, Shannon, Sam, and Duce!)

Plus:

*Over 50 students baptized from all the campuses!

*Able to help baptize my 12 year old cousin at Beach Baptism, reppin Hallandale!

*275 students attended the Student Easter Service

*16 stood to accept Christ in the Student service!

*My family always trys to do a holiday service together, but it didn't exactly work out, didn't get that Easter family photo, but no regrets, instead we all were able to serve together!

*My son served at Sawgrass in the set-up ministry and played percussion during service; he also helped with the Student service at Cooper!

*My daughter served at Cooper in the Preschool ministry, handed out peeps and joined the choir!

*Watching Heather P worship in the choir! and seeing Chris Brown join for the last service!

*479 baptized each with an individual story, was able to meet, talk and baptize a few on an incredible Easter morning!

*After the last service on Sunday, about 18 of us went to grab dinner and just celebrate a great weekend! We invited the waiter to church and he left with business cards and The Bed CD!

*Doing life and serving my Savior in the best church in the world!

HE knows my name!

2008-03-20T14:49:00.000-07:00

On Monday and Tuesday, March 17 and 18, the Student Ministry staff and friends were able to attend the Youth Pastor Summit in Orlando. This is a conference that is hosted by Student Leadership and was held at Hard Rock Live in CityWalk. This year the main speakers were Ed Young, Francis Chan and John Eldredge. They were all awesome! I had never heard Francis Chan speak before and I was so impressed. His overall message was about how we should remember that we serve to use our gifts, not gain God's love or approval; we do not need to serve out of insecurity, but we must remember that our names are written in the Book of Life and God knows our name - HE knows my name! We each had our favorites, I really liked Francis and Carson and Matt P. really liked Chris Hill. Not only is the conference free, but they also give you free tickets into Universal and Islands of Adventure. We had a blast and it was great to get away and get re-energized for the Easter Weekend ahead. We are going to have a kickin' Easter service for Students on Saturday night at 6:30pm. I am so excited for the party, my son and Javan are going to sing, Love Addict by Family Force 5, we are going to baptize after the service and I know that some more names will be written in the Lamb's Book of Life. I will let you know about the great weekend ahead, we are so pumped to be a player in this God story. I also get to be a part of Beach Baptisms at Dania beach this Easter morning. We have over 500 registered to get baptized and I know a few of those are students!!!

Truth? half-truth? no truth?

2008-03-11T11:41:00.000-07:00

Ok, all you Oprah lovers, do not get angry. I like her too. Oprah is always promoting books and the latest book tends to promote a relativistic worldview. I like that Chuck Norris does question the timing and relevance of the book. Chuck is exercising his freedom of speech regarding the latest book and book study she is promoting. Check out the link, read the article, think for yourself...

Chuck Norris takes on Oprah

Please note that I am not promoting Chuck or Oprah, I am promoting that Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life, no man gets to God except through His son, Jesus!!!

Hearing the truth

2008-03-07T11:05:00.000-08:00

Spending time alone with my God allows me to hear the truth from His Word. I also love listening to music that inspires, the 2 songs below give me encouragement...these songs are not brand new, but their message build's strength and speaks truth for a lifetime...click the links below to watch the YouTube videos.

My Savior, My God by Aaron Shust

Strong Enough, by Stacie Orrico

Listening to Strong Enough reminds me to be very careful to bring every thought into the presence of God because of the lies that the enemy wants me to believe especially when he speaks the 5 word lie, "you are not good enough," trying to make me feel that my God is not God-enough to clean me and forgive me, to cover my scars, so that I may be used for His glory. The enemy likes to use the little lies to make me feel inadequate to even be in the presence of the Almighty. My God IS strong enough, pure enough, brave enough to protect me, to clear the path so that I can reach my potential.

Join me and my family this weekend as our church starts a new series called RationaLIES - the battle for truth. Pastor Troy will be shedding light on the darkness, the lies that the enemy uses to destroy our lives with, the lies the enemy uses to keep non-believers from believing. The series will cover the big lies, like "hell is not real", but I know that we all can struggle with the little lies that can come through our thoughts each day. The key to a successful life is to know that if you make a mistake, you can learn from it, be forgiven and be used by God, to know that our scars are not seen by God, thanks to His Son, Christ. Everyday He gives me the chance to start again! Thank you Lord! I pray that others find You as their strength and courage to start again or just start! Invite someone to this 4 week series that includes Easter weekend! Celebrate He Lives and He is Strong Enough!

x3 = Multiplication

2008-03-04T19:40:00.001-08:00

Today I went to the same book study three times!! I know you are thinking, how do you have all that time. I really do not, but it truly is an investment that needs to be made. I attend one book study for myself, to be taught, to interact with my peers and engage; I attend another book study to be an example and network because I invited leaders from Student Ministry and if they are coming at 7am in the morning and I invited them, I need to be there also; and I attend the third to lead and teach the book to 6 guys and gals between the ages of 18-24, we hope to add a few more. In each hour that I attend, I learn something new, whether it is from the teacher or students. Thinking is one of our values, ETHOS, at Flamingo Road Church. This book we are studying, Launching a Leadership Revolution is really well written, very practical and can be applied and understood by everyone. Any time that you are spending to invest in reaching your God-potential or help others reach there God-potential is not wasted time, it is time well spent!!! And by the way, to reach the God-given vision of 50/100,000/150,000,000 means we need to be launching a leadership revolution because it will take a revolutionary mentality to build this army to conquer this goal.

No Excuses!

2008-03-01T20:48:00.000-08:00

This morning at the gym, as I was working out I watched as a blind man came in to work out. At first I noticed how he walked in on the arm of a lady and I just thought that they were happy to be together. As he began to work on the machines, I watched as he would use his hands to guide his way through the machines, where he would sit and how he would manuever the machines as he worked out. As I watched him, tears came to my eyes, I was inspired. If this man who is blind can come in here and work out, I have no excuses. I do not know him, or his story, but he is a very successful man to me. I hope I run into him again at the gym and get an opportunity to speak with him. I guarantee he can teach me alot about pushing past obstacles to reach your God-potential.

No Regrets!

2008-02-28T20:32:00.000-08:00

After reading the Potential Blog today, I am inspired to write down my thoughts on a blog entry written by Raul Palacios. I thought to myself I could leave a long comment, but why not just write my own blog entry. Regarding his blog entry on Quitting - what encouraged me in his words, were the last three lines that said, "God pours out His blessings to those who persevere. The difference between extraordinary and ordinary is effort. With effort also comes a life lived without regret." It got me to thinking about when I lead Children's Ministry at Flamingo Road Church almost 10 years ago. I was taking the steps and walking through doors that opened in ministry, first thanking God for providing a part time job that allowed me to make some extra money as I pursued being a full time mom. As I lead in Children's Ministry, I never felt like it was the place I would end up or where I belonged. There were times that I felt like quitting, but quitting is never an option, just a feeling. I have taught my children that if they begin something and make a commitment, they must finish out the season, the venture. So I knew in order to hold them to it, I had to live it. What I knew was that God had given me an opportunity to be true to my first calling at that season in my life and that was being a mother. After about 2 years leading, an opportunity came for me to take on more responsibility in Children's Ministry (and I know many didn't understand) but I had to say no because the priority at that time was to be a full time mom and a part time minister. I also was doing something that I did not feel was my total calling, so I never totally felt like the puzzle pieces were fitting, but it was where God wanted me to be and I needed to be obedient. I learned so much about leadership, caring for leaders and building teams during those five years. If I had quit, God would not have been able to have me in the right place at the right time to step into Student Ministry. Once I began working with teenagers, the puzzle pieces fit so much better and I was able to use my life experiences to invest into 13-18 year olds. I particularly like the last statement that reads, "with effort comes a life lived without regret"...I have stayed true to what God has called me to do with my own children and with Children's Ministry. I was there for a time, a time that God needed and ordained and I also was able to be available to my children and God has definitely blessed me for being true to myself, sticking to my goals and living out my list of life priorities. Both my children are a testimony to my professional sacrifice. My season in life is changing and now my priorities can change also. I can give more time to students and leaders and truly use my gifts, life experiences and passions to honor God. That is success! That is a life lived without regret! Be real with yourself and with your Savior and He will make a way and you will have no regrets!

Being a part of HisStory!

2008-02-19T11:01:00.000-08:00

Read below the details of a great historic moment and the first in the internet world:

It was a historic weekend at Flamingo Road Church because we experienced our first baptism through our Internet campus. Our baptizee was Alyssa, who the Holy Spirit nudged to follow Christ and be baptized; she sensed His nudge and obeyed. But since Alyssa lives in Georgia and we are a thousand miles away in South Florida, what do you do? Enter the power of innovation…
Our Internet Campus Pastor, Brian Vasil, was the voice; Alyssa’s step mother-in-law, Lisa, was the hands; the bathtub was the baptistery. For a month, Pastor Brian worked with Alyssa to prepare her for Baptism; and then yesterday at 4pm it happened. In a bathtub of water, as Brian spoke the words, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit," Alyssa’s mother in-law immersed her into the water and the whole thing was live streamed over the Internet. It was amazing; it was the first of many.
Again, through baptism, the picture of what Christ did for us--birth, death and resurrection--portrayed to the world.
Technology leveraged for the kingdom…and while the computers buzzed, Christ smiled. (courtesy of H.Palacios)

Hardwork pays off

2008-02-18T16:06:00.000-08:00

My husband is the Athletic Director at The Hollywood Christian Academy. This past Saturday night, the varsity girl's basketball team of THCA won their game against Country Day to advance to the State Championships in Lakeland, Florida. I am so excited for him and the girl's team. This past year he had to make some head coaching changes to the girl's and boy's basketball teams and they were not received very well. Change is never easy and those on the sidelines did not totally understand. But he had to make the right decision, not the popular one. He had to deal with some criticism, but that is the price of being the Athletic Director, he sees things others can not see, and has to make the hard call sometimes. I am very proud of his leadership... so far this year, the Varsity Football team, the Boy's Basketball team, and the Girl's Basketball team have all won their districts and named District Champs. The softball team has a chance to win their district also and then the athletics of THCA will be up for a special award for having 4 district titles in one school, same year. I pray and hope hard work pays off again and the girls win the State title this coming week. Let's go Eagles!!!

Selling the Stuff

2008-02-15T18:30:00.001-08:00

My husband borrowed a truck, we are loading up the garage sale items tonight. I am so glad. We cleaned out our garage the day after Christmas and I am tired of looking at the stuff in my garage. I want to see the benefits of cleaning out! I am really excited though for tomorrow. The day begins early but it should be a lot of fun. Remember all proceeds go to the American Cancer Society.

Make sure to stop by one of our FRC locations tomorrow for some great bargains. Bring a friend, or 2 or 3. Cooper City is supposed to have 130 vendors! Can't wait to see what was once one man's junk, become anothers treasure. See you tomorrow!

LOCATIONS Choose the location that is best for you:
Cooper City, Fl

12401 Stirling Rd.From

8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Doral, Fl

Ronald W. Reagan/Doral Senior High School 8600 NW 107 Ave.From

8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Fort Worth, TX

8117 Sunscape CourtFrom

8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Hallandale Beach, Fl

214 E Hallandale Beach Blvd.From

8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Hartlepool England

TS25 1GQ25 Kinterbury Close Seaton Carew
Lima, Peru

Parque Caceres, San Isidro

10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Sunrise, Fl

Updated Location

Horizon Elementary

2101 Pine Island Rd.

Sunrise, FL 33322

From 8 a.m. to 11 a.m

Turned 20 on 2-12

2008-02-14T20:17:00.001-08:00

Corey and Scott in Niketown, Chicago
Hannah Montana, aka Corey
Corey and Marcus as Tennesee boys at High School Summer Camp '07
Corey leading the team out for a game!

Happy Birthday, Corey!

It is so hard to believe that it was 20 years ago today that I brought you home - V Day, 1988.

I always said you were my sweetheart baby and you would be a lover, not a fighter and it is somewhat true. Now, you definitely speak your mind and we have had some spirited conversations, but you never like to go bed without making peace. That is such a good trait, to not hold a grudge, to not allow the sun to go down on your anger.

You were an answer to prayer, I asked God for a son then a daughter, so he could be the older brother to his sister, something that I never had. You have been a great older brother!

You have always been determined, from the time you kicked and broke my water and I went into labor. You always told me that you wanted to go away to college and play football and you set your goals and were so determined to succeed. Never imagined it would be in Illinois!

You are strong-willed and I will never forget the time I was disciplining you, you were about 3 years old and you told me, "You are not the boss of me". I knew then I would have to keep on my toes to be your mom.

You have always been a leader and never followed the crowd. I remember the time you were at a party with drugs and alcohol and you stood your ground, said no, and then called me to come and get you, and you didn't care that your friends saw you leave early.

You have always been an individual sometimes to the point where others thought you to be a bit strange or off :-).

You have the greatest imagination and when you were young, it was a blast playing pretend with you. It broke my heart to have to tell you that Santa was not real.

You are a great athlete and were never afraid to try different sports. You just always liked the extra physical sports, like football and hockey. How many ER visits have you had?

You are passionate about what you are passionate about...and many times you were misunderstood, but that trait will help you reach your goals in life.

You have a sensitive side, more than others know. But I have seen it as an asset, especially how you are sensitive to the Lord and His call on your life.

We share the love of music and I was so proud of you when, on your own, you found someone to teach you to play the drums and sure enough you did.

I love your sense of humor, you always tell the funniest stories and come up with your slogan words of the week- gunther!

And now you are 20, no more teenager, but a man, a young man that I am proud to call my son, my friend. I know that I can ask you to pray for me or someone and you will. I love how you seek God for your future and because of your choices to be faithful and obedient to your Heavenly Father, blessings abound! I miss you this week, the first time in your life we have not been together on your birthday, but I know you are safe in the will of God! Thanks for your text message last night, especially the part that read..."if you need me, call me, i love u". Seems like words I should be sending to you, but it shows me how the ground has become level between the 2 of us, no longer am I your total authority, but your friend! Happy Birthday,
I love you, Mom!

Post with 2 Points

2008-02-03T16:06:00.000-08:00

This past week I had the opportunity to see 2 3D Movies! U2 and Hannah Montana. I loved them both! I love music! I love going to concerts and I believe that these 3D Concerts at the movie theatre will become our reality in the near future. Why do I think that, you ask? Well, for one it is either impossible or too expensive to get tickets these days to the top shows. I believe the new ticket online broker systems, like Stubhub and such, have a secret hacking system. Hannah Montana was sold out before her tickets even went on sale. And this past week, my girlfriend tried to get tickets to see the Eagles in Atlanta and all the good or reasonably priced seats for 3 different shows were gone in a matter of minutes. Watch for the concert to be in 3D very soon.

On another note, (I thought of while watching the Hannah Montana movie): If you haven't seen it and you have kids from 2-20, take them. It is really a fun thing to do with your kids. Plus you will understand why she is the hottest ticket right now - her audience is vast! Both my teenagers wanted to see it, my 16 year old went with a group of friends, guys and girls, and they loved it. My son wants to see it, but he is at college without a car, so he is trying to convince his roommates, hehe! I took my cousin's girls and we had a blast! There were also a bunch of high school students that came up to me this weekend in Student Ministry to let me know they had gone to see the show! They were proudly sharing their cell phone photos and wearing their Hannah t-shirts and 3D glasses (Lauren and Lindsay:-))

Here is an idea (something I did with both my kids at different times in their lives and wish I had done it more), surprise them and take them out of school and go. I have taken my kids out of school (they were each in Middle School) and surprised them with tickets to a concert, lunch at a favorite restaurant, or on our way to Universal. The show is playing all this week at local theaters, if you can get out of work early or go late, or if you don't work...send your kid to school and do not let them on to the secret. Go to the school office and call them out of class, their face will be priceless. Tell them they are on an adventure, you can blindfold them, bring them clues, or just drive and they may figure it out by the time you pull into the theater parking lot. It helps you out in the Hero department and if they can't drive yet, it is a great time to do it before they can and take theirselves places! Hey, if they like U2 better than Hannah, then check out that movie, I think it is still playing at the Imax! You will not regret the memories you are making or the Hero points either ;-)!

Cycles

2008-02-01T23:27:00.000-08:00

There are 2 cycles of parenthood, (probably more) but these are a couple I have experienced:

Cycle 1 - God gives parents the gift of a child and we raise them and give them back to God as they enter adulthood - From His arms to ours and back to His! It is such a picture of trust, He entrusts us with the childhood and then we have to trust Him with adulthood. He loves them more than we do - do you really believe that?

Cycle 2 - For the first ten years you are their hero, for the next 10 you gradually turn to zero and then around 20 you become their hero again.

Community

2008-02-01T23:04:00.000-08:00

Last night, I went to dinner with my daughter and Rachel B. We went to a restaurant I consider like a Cheers - you know like the song, "where everybody knows your name". We know most of the staff because they are teens that attend our church or have run in circles with my son or daughter. And while we were in the restaurant, some friends and their family came in to have dinner. It got me to thinking how cool it is to have the sense of community in such a large town. Yes, some can argue that I have that feeling because I am a native and have lived in the same place consecutively for the last 22 years. For at least 15 of those years, my children were very active in the athletic community and I met lots of people and made great friends. If you just moved here or have only been here for a short time, you may feel disconnected or not part of a community. Try attending church, joining a small group, and also getting involved in the community - a booster club, event for your child. Carson always teases me that every time I go anywhere with her, I run into someone that I know. Yes, it is a result of connecting in many areas of life. I know in a town like this it can be hard, and that is why the local church is so important. I do have friends in many circles, but it was when I have gone through some of the lowest times in my life, that my church has been the community that has helped me through (loss of job, death of family members). Our journey takes us across many paths and the cool part is that we get to experience life with the many people that come in and out of our lives. Hopefully, we make an impact on a spiritual level so eternity is the ultimate goal. God created us to be relational and we have relational needs that can only be met in community.

It makes me think of the quote by John Donne,

"All mankind is of one author, and is one volume; when one man dies, one chapter is not torn out of the book, but translated into a better language; and every chapter must be so translated...No man is an island, entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent, a part of the main; if a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less...any man's death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind..."

What are you thinking? Do you need to take that step toward building community in your life, especially now that culture is pulling us apart from each other more and more each day...

He speaks in mysterious ways

2008-02-01T22:53:00.000-08:00

God spoke to me today through a secular song! Ok, so I sound crazy, but between me and Him, I know the timing of the song and the words spoken were from Him!

Check out The Eagles new album - Long Road Out of Eden, (Disc 1, Track 11 You are Not Alone!)

Friday Favorite

2008-02-01T20:51:00.000-08:00

I Love Vitamin Water!

Let it Go!

2008-01-29T06:48:00.000-08:00

Over the past couple months, I must admit, God and I have had a few more heart to hearts than usual. I find myself in the middle of the night, waking to speak with him. And the hardest part about talking with Him, is most of the time I have to wait a day, a week, a month, a year or 2 to get an answer. He tells me to wait, alot more than I like(Psalm 33:20). There have been times in my life when I have cried out and he has answered me quicker than normal either in a voice from inside, a dream, His AWESOME WORD. I know He understands, I know he loves me and he gives me the privilege to pour into others lives because I have walked in their shoes in some way or another. But it is still hard. Standing in the battle gear on the front lines is hard and you must truly know that you are only there because God chose you and will equip you(Ephesians 6:13-17). You must stay there in the midst of your fear(2 Timothy 1:7) or doubt, knowing that He will give you the strength to do the job. You must realize that this is not a game, this is a real battle of love versus hate. I KNOW HE ordained mine. I KNOW because he promises that all the pain that we endure is not for nothing, it is to be used to help another(Romans 8:28). I KNOW because HE is FAITHFUL, and he has always been there to see me through. When I begin to worry or doubt, I can always claim ALL the many times He has been there. And so many times, He was just waiting for me to humble(James 4:10) myself and surrender, to let it go, give it to him. I hold onto it and it wracks my brain. I cry out only to Him, and finally hand it over. What do you need to surrender? What are you holding onto? Remember you are not your own, you were bought with a price(1 Corinthians 6:20). If you keep it, whatever it is, ask yourself, will it be worthy enough to place at the feet of the King? OR by giving it to Him, can he create something worthy of His Kingdom, covered in His love to place back into your life! Let it Go! Trust(John 14:1) that He knows what is best for you and me!

Only one King, per kingdom

2008-01-15T08:52:00.000-08:00

Starting out always seems to be the hardest place. God has been nudging me to pass on the truths I have learned as a parent. Part of me feels that I should wait til my children are totally raised and married before I share. But I do talk and meet with lots of parents who are dealing with issues I have survived. So I am going to make a 2008 commitment to at least once a month try and share an "empowering parent" thought or lesson. And please understand, I do not have all the answers, I have just survived the "teenage" years with my 1 of my own, still living through it with another and get to send the other teenagers I do life with home to their parents each week. This lesson below I observed and learned when my son was between the ages of 14 and 17. I call it "Only one King, per kingdom":

When my son was between the ages of 14-17, the testerone levels in my home were very high. For some reason, teenage boys feel the need to challenge the kingdom at this age. What they tend to forget is that in the home if there is a father present, he is the king. They will never have the throne in that kingdom. That is why they must go out and venture into the world and set up there own kingdom. There were many times that my son and husband would meet each other with puffed out chests each demanding the role of king. What my son got to learn early on was that his father would always win and remain king. Corey had this unrealistic strength (and immature stupidity) that made him feel like he had a right and ability to challenge the king. My husband on the other hand could not understand why his once loving, sensitive son would feel the need to even attempt to take on his dad. I usually felt like the referee. I saw both of them become people they really did not want to emulate. It brought the worse out in both. I would take Corey to the side and let him know that he may not always agree with his dad and I, but God asks him to honor us. He could one day go out and set up his own kingdom with his own set of rules, but that would never happen here. And no matter how big or how old he got, his father would always be his father. My lesson in all this: Support my husband as the authority in the home, be the reasonable voice to both dad and son, pray for both, and help my son understand that yes he was becoming a MAN, but he was not the Man of this house.
I know there are many homes that do have a father present and this means a whole different set of obstacles. I feel that is why boys tend to try and prove their independence and
masculinity in social environments. Sports are a good way of release, going to the gym, having them find something they are good at, getting a job, a place to call their own. Something they can be proud they have accomplished. Knowing they have a Heavenly Father who is proud of them. I think they evaluate their manhood against the role model of thier dad and really all they are trying to say is, Dad, are you proud of the man that I am becoming? We need as parents to work real hard to give positive reinforcement to our teenagers, especially from dads!
Note: Since Corey has left and gone into the real world, his relationship with his father is moving from dad as authority to dad as friend. Corey has to now realize God is his ultimate authority. I think as parents that is one of our main jobs, leading them from our arms into God's arms!

Starting out Organized!

2008-01-10T18:49:00.000-08:00

Everyone works together to clean out the garage:
What we have to sell at the Garage Sale: After cleaning and organizing the garage:

I have started out 2008 and already able to check off one of my goals for the new year! Thanks to our church having the World's Largest Garage Sale (Feb. 16). We have been wanting to clean out the garage and now we had purpose and a timeline to get it done. Tim lead the charge and made sure we did it while Corey was home to get some muscle from him and some of his guy friends. So during the Christmas break, he had us all working as a family cleaning out and re-organizing the garage. Who really likes cleaning out the garage? It takes time and it requires letting go of items that are not needed or haven't been used in a long time. And when the whole family does it together, everyone has their own agenda of what to keep and what to get rid of. Why is it that we hold onto stuff? Stuff we can't take with us in the end. Why is it that we feel that by accumulating a lot of stuff we are successful. Can't we have a little and still be successful? I am learning that less is better. I am learning that ALOT about life is letting go (and trusting). I am learning that the relationships that I invest in go with me way past the dash in my tombstone, can't say that about the stuff in my garage. So join me and my family, and get to cleaning and letting go...bring it to Flamingo Road Church on Feb 16 and help raise money for the American Cancer Society. And you can even join us beginning Jan 26 or 27 as the new teaching series, "Garage Sale" begins!

Loving Students!

2007-12-29T19:16:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-25T22:06:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-25T21:38:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-24T22:57:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-23T19:37:00.000-08:00

My Christmas Letter

2007-12-23T18:25:00.000-08:00

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?

2007-12-14T21:00:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-14T11:41:00.000-08:00

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:

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!
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.
Getting the tree - read previous blog
Playing the N'Sync Christmas CD and dancing in the living room like fools..."Merry Christmas and Haaaapppy Holidays!"
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.
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!
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.
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?

2007-12-14T11:18:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-14T08:46:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-12T16:45:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-07T22:25:00.001-08:00

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

2007-12-07T21:39:00.000-08:00

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

2007-12-03T17:52:00.000-08:00

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!

2007-11-12T13:58:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-09T11:23:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-06T07:48:00.000-08:00

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

2007-11-01T18:34:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-19T20:33:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-16T13:13:00.000-07:00

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

2007-10-11T19:15:00.001-07:00

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

2007-10-04T18:45:00.001-07:00

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

2007-10-01T19:41:00.001-07:00

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

2007-09-27T19:04:00.000-07:00

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.

2007-09-24T18:13:00.000-07:00

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!

2007-09-21T11:25:00.000-07:00

"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

2007-09-19T11:31:00.001-07:00

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

2007-09-17T21:33:00.000-07:00

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

2007-09-16T17:30:00.000-07:00

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

2007-09-13T19:56:00.000-07:00

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...

2007-09-12T06:48:00.000-07:00

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

2007-09-11T08:54:00.001-07:00

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

2007-09-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-23T18:43:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-22T20:04:00.000-07:00

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

2007-08-21T20:32:00.000-07:00

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?

2007-08-20T18:00:00.000-07:00

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.

Birthday Surprises

2007-07-27T18:08:00.000-07:00

This past Wednesday, I celebrated my birthday. I started out the day just figuring it would be another day and my birthday could just sneak on by. Dont get me wrong, I like birthdays, but don't really require the hoopla. I had to work and we are crazy busy getting ready for camp, no time for celebrating birthdays. And my son had to have an outpatient procedure called an "endoscopy" for some chest pains he has been experiencing - I would spend part of the day in the waiting room during the procedure. No big deal, just another day.
Little did I know that God would use this day to show me how much He loves me. He uses people to show His love for us. He sent them my way and gave me such confirmation of what great friends and family I have.
When I arrived at work, Carson had left a Starbucks gift card on my desk with my fav Starbucks drink, thanks! I had a message on my phone from Melissa S., thanks! I knew I had alot to do in a few hours since I would leave early to take my son. But Chad made sure we stopped at noon to take Carson and I to lunch for our July birthdays, thanks! As I sat in the waiting room at my son's outpatient appointment, my cell phone rang and it was Kelly Robertson, she wanted to drop me a gift at my desk, but I told her the deal about Corey and where I was. She knew the place and within 30 minutes she showed up. She not only brought a gift, but sat in the waiting room with me until Corey was done, Wow, thanks! That meant so much to me for her to take her time, more than she had anticipated, to wish me a Happy Birthday. Finally the day ended with a family dinner at Romeu's. My sister and her family who were in town visiting from Georgia came, along with my BFF since middle school, Kim, my BFF since college, Haydee and an unexpected guest, my step-sister, and her family. When they surprised me at the end of dinner with a cake, I looked around and thought it doesn't really get any better than this. Everyone there has known me most of my life and loves me anyway, all the good and bad. Just like my Savior! I am so lucky! Thanks!

Surge Protection

2007-07-20T21:40:00.000-07:00

So, remember I told you that while on vacation my husband's laptop had some issues. Well, after a day on the phone with Dell and an overnight delivery of a new DVD player, the laptop was up and running yesterday from about 8pm on. But isn't life just like this, today as the laptop was charging at about 3pm in the afternoon, the summer time rain storm came through. Lightning and thunder was heard outside as our home took an electric surge and the next thing my son hears is a crackling noise coming from where else, my husband's laptop. His computer took a hit and it fried the audio card. The computer was only going for about 19 hours and BOOM, another problem.

It is so much like life, you get an issue taken care of in your life, or a situation is cleared up or fixed and watch out, because he comes another one. The frustrating part is that we just got the laptop to working order and now it has a new problem. Do you ever feel like you just got steady on both feet and the rug is pulled out again before you even got your breath?

We did find out that the computer was plugged into the wall charger that was plugged directly into the wall and not a surge protector.

So many times we don't take the time to make sure we are plugged in to the PROTECTOR, and BOOM we fall down.

Tomorrow we will call customer support, and take the necessary steps to fix the problem, and learn from our mistakes. Does it mean no more lightning storms? No. It does mean we will make sure we are plugged into the right protection each and every time we need to charge it again!!!!

Top 10 Cities In America

2007-07-17T21:55:00.000-07:00

Congratulations Cooper City! You have been voted by Family Circle Magazine as one of the 10 Best Towns for Families. You can check out the article in the August edition of Family Circle Magazine. Lori Green, a friend of mine, was interviewed for this article. If you catch this blog in time, check out The CBS Early Show tomorrow morning, July 18 as they interview the writer of the article.

It is a nice honor to live in this town and I have felt that it is a special place to live. I just hope our mayor and city council can come together after the recent division that has come to the council over the past few months.

Enjoy the honor, but continue to pray for our town.

Making Memories

2007-07-17T19:16:00.000-07:00

Pic #1-Ft Myers Beach

Pic #2 - Sister's house

Pic #3- Blake and Corey jam session

Pic # 4 - Helicopter Ride

Pic #5 - Putt putt golf

<-----

Pic #6 - Smoky Mountains

My intentions were to be able and write while on vacation, but my husband's laptop decided not to cooperate the first day into the trip. We decided to just not deal with internet or answering cell phones and just focus on spending time with each other and family. This meant no myspace for the kids or email for Tim and I. I believe it was God-ordained, haha. We spent the 4th of July in Ft Myers. If you are anything like me, you hate looking for that great place to watch the fireworks for the fourth of July, fighting crowds and mosquitos. Well, I will share a secret I have known over the past few year, Ft Myers beach is the place to go. You can get a hotel right on the beach and watch the fireworks from your hotel. I do not mean mom and pop shows with fireworks bought at the tent roadside shops, I mean major fireworks like Disney World, going on all around you. We didn't fight any crowds or mosquitos, we actually sat on the balcony of our 6th floor room and watched the shows, looking left or right and they went on for about an hour. The kids made strawberry smoothies in the blender and baked cookies, we had so much fun. Pic #1 is Amber, Marcus, Jamie and Corey on the beach during the day.

We then headed to Atlanta and spent a couple days at my sister's home. We went and saw the movie Transformers at the IMAX. It was a really great movie. We also watched old family videos and laughed our heads off. Pic #2 is my nephew, Tony and Corey in front of my sis' house.

My sister and nephew decided to go with us to Tennessee. We met up with Tim's mom, dad, older brother, wife and 2 kids. We had a lot of fun just hanging at the pool, playing cards, shopping. We also went riding go-carts and some of the crew went on a helicopter ride through the mountains. We always have a Farver family round of putt-putt golf. We had 10 of us playing so we broke into teams. It was so much fun! We have such a competitive group of players. My team won!! Way to go Amber, she had like 4 hole in ones and was on my team. Picture #4 is Tim, Jamie and Corey on the helicopter ride through the Tennessee mountains, picture #5 is my niece, Kindal, myself, my sister, Amber and Corey playing putt-putt and picture #6 is Corey, my sis, Wendy and Amber at a stop in the mountains. It was cool to be with everyone and of course it wasnt always hunky-dory, we did have our moments of needing our space and getting on one another's nerves. A cool time was when my 15 year old nephew, Blake and Corey lead an improptu set of worship in the living room of one of our suites. Blake brought his guitar and Corey went through the kitchen pots and pans to find a bongo. He eventually ended up with a plastic covered bowl. (see pic #3) I noticed Tim's mom and dad in tears for a brief moment. It was nice to watch them enjoy the music and look around at their family and feel proud. At first I wasnt two keen on driving all the way to Tennesee, since I get to do it again for High School camp, but I know the sacrifice and making the memories with the kids and extended family is priceless.

Vacation Time

2007-07-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

It is vacation time in our home. Everyone is so excited, but anxious at the same time. When your children become 19 and 15, they have an agenda of their own, but not always the bank to back it up. So, I told them like a mission trip, this vacation key word is flexibility. Our destination is Tennessee to meet up with Tim's family, but we have stops on the way. We are going to beach it for the 4th in Ft Myers and then head to my sister's home in Georgia. We will stay with her a couple days and then meet up with Tim's older brother and parents in Tenn. We always have stories and adventures when we do these type of road trips. Stay tuned...My sister is calling and she is also going with us to Tennessee. I love this part of life...being with family...they are such great creatures to study and learn from.

Meeting the king

2007-06-28T07:20:00.001-07:00

My Aunt Pam passed away this past Tuesday, she was 64. She and my mother were best friends in high school, had the same first and middle name, they had the same birthday month, married brothers, each had 2 daughters. Their life each also filled with pain from dyfunctional families, divorce and addiction. They shared the good and the bad times of life and one of the most told stories of their life was when they met Elvis Presley. They were 17 years old and Elvis had come to Miami to film a TV show at the Fountainbleu hotel. They were given tickets from a local radio station and were able to sit in the audience and watch the taping of the show. That wasn't enough for these fanatic followers of Elvis. During a break in the taping, they decided to try and find him or his hotel room. They found out he was staying in the penthouse and proceeded to take the elevator to his room. When the elevator reached the top floor, they got out but soon realized that it was not the penthouse. The elevator they got on did not go to the penthouse. My aunt Pam soon created a plan to climb the fire escape of the hotel to get to the penthouse. Whenever my mom would tell this story, she always mentioned how the fire escape ladder was on the outside of the building, so as you climbed up you could look down and see the street and cars drive by. She said she hung on for dear life. Once they were safely on the carpeted hotel floor, they proceeded to go around the corner to find his room, and there he was sitting in a chair in the hallway. He heard their giggles and motioned for them to come over and talk to him. My mom always said that made her an even greater fan because he was so kind to them. He asked them where they went to school and took pictures with them and gave them each autographs. To this day, I still have the photo and autograph as a promise to my mom that I wouldn't sell it.
Losing your mom is probably one of the hardest people in your life to lose. It has been 13 years and I still wish my mom was just a phone call away, I have so much to tell her about how proud she would be of my life and her grandchildren's lives. I know that I will see her again. I encouraged Renee over the past couple of years to make sure she spoke to her mom about salvation. Renee was able to have that gift and knows that her mom did accept Christ. We could not change the choices that our parents made with their lives that ultimately caused probably sooner than need be. But we can take the good that they have given us, make better choices, stop the cycle of addiction and live each day as a fanatic of the real King, Jesus Christ.
Rest in Peace, Aunt Pam, I know my mom was there to meet you!

Every privileged American should have this experience

2007-06-27T17:31:00.000-07:00

I am so blessed to have been given the opportunity over the past few years to have a job that allows me to use my gifts and experience the desires of my heart. A couple of weeks ago I travelled to Peru with a group of 21 teenagers on a mission trip. We were able to experience so many God moments, moments that you just walk in the spirit and trust that God is leading you in unknown steps of your life. I loved watching the students as they were taken out of their comfort zone and hopefully began to learn what it truly means to have faith and trust. We spent time in Lima serving at an orphanage, watching the kids eat pepperoni on their pizza for the first time and many more locations. Each place we went we met special people that God placed in our path. Along my journey I met Carmen at the orphanage, Mira at Pachachutec, Brandon in Iquitos, the women in the tribe at the jungle, Emerson in Lima and Violeta at FRC Lima. On a mission trip we are taken out of our normal routine and forced to notice the less fortunate than ourselves. But when we come home do we continue to look for those hurting people that God places in our path. This was the lesson that I was hoping my privileged 15 year old daughter and the rest of the teenagers would grasp. The first day we went to the orphanage and the little girls who live their wanted to show our kids their bedrooms. As I followed a group of our girls up the stairs and into the room, my daughter came out of the room crying very hard. She could not express in words what she was feeling, but I believe she had her first moment of realization of how those with less live each day and are proud of what they have and how blessed she was. Our students would share in different ways how they were observing those that live with less but love and serve God with so much more passion than we do in America. For 3 days we went to the jungle town of Iquitos and visited tribes and villages of those in need. It never felt like we gave them enough, but we always shared the gospel and many accepted Christ and that really is the greatest gift we could offer. The photos in this blog are of my daughter with a child from the tribe and her placing an anaconda over her shoulders. Last night when I picked her up from a friend's home, she asked me if she could go in a couple weeks to feed the homeless down in Miami with a ministry called PB & J. My heart smiled and I immediately thanked God for the opportunity she was given to go on this mission trip. I hope she is getting that calling yourself a Christian is more than just a label on her myspace page, but a lifestyle of action and service. James 2:14-26

Where have you been?

2007-06-27T16:46:00.000-07:00

I know those of you that read blogs religiously probably don't come to mine when I haven't written consistently for the past few weeks. Honestly they have been very busy traveling to Peru on a mission trip, adding the morning gym ritual to my schedule, working longer days planning 2 major camps along with the regular weekend planning that happens each week, and having all the family home for summer. Most people look at summer time as a time of rest and relaxation, but honestly in my life it is probably some of the longest days. It is a busy season in student ministry with mission trips, camps, students home from college hanging out at my home and at the office. My son is also home from college and that means late nights. I can't go to sound sleep until I know he is home and when he does come home we seem to have this ritual that we sit in the living room and talk for a while. Teenagers schedules tends to be late nights whether they sleep in or have to get up. They have a great tolerance for lack of sleep. I also went on the mission trip to Peru and I was fortunate to witness my daughter's first experience with poverty and serving the needy in a big way. And finally something just for me, going to the gym. My daughter has been wanting to join and like I have said before, with teenagers, you find what they like and where they are and meet them there and it definitely keeps the communication lines open. The challenge from Troy to the staff and the inspiration of Carson also helped add this to my crazy days.
This week unexpectedly my aunt passed away from a stroke and massive bleed in her brain, she was 64. Her and my mom were best friends in high school and married brothers. Her daughter is one of my best friends and knowing what it is like to lose your mom, I felt very strongly that I needed to be with my cousin just to "be there", to pray and to comfort.
I have different stories that have to do with each of these and will blog separately about them.
Life has been busy, but we can always see God at work and the enemy attempting to work sometimes even harder when we moving toward the likeness of Christ. Stay tuned...

Scratch and Dent

2007-05-14T14:27:00.000-07:00

My internet has been down at home and I have a few entries into my journal that I want to blog about and share. Now I am back up and here is one of them. I will try and write some of the others in the next few days.

A couple weeks ago I was driving to pick my daughter up from school. We needed to drive to Miami to a Vital statistics office for an original copy of her birth certificate. As I drove down the road, a man pulled out of a convenience store and almost hit me. At first I got a little ticked and thought to myself, "what is his problem!!". I noticed as he grabbed his steering wheel to get control and not smash into me that he had a lottery scratch off card in one hand and I think a coin in the other. Evidently he couldn't wait to scratch off and see if he had won. I noticed that his truck was older and it had two ladders on the back with paint buckets and brushes. Then this verse came to my mind, "dont get tired of doing what is good". As I paid more attention to who he was, I thought to myself, I guess he is tired of working hard every day and probably bought that ticket hoping it would rescue him from this hum drum life of a painter. It also brought to my mind someone that I had been praying for and encouraging. They didn't understand how if they were doing all the right things for the Lord, would their life hit a roadblock and they would be pulled off the road that they felt was headed to their dream. I didnt have the answers but I did give them this verse. The cool thing about this day was when I got to my destination and went inside the office to pick up the birth certificate, right there, on a plaque on the woman's desk that was helping me, read the following:

Galations 6:9
So don't get tired of doing what is good. Don't get discouraged and give up, for we will reap a harvest of blessing at the appropriate time.

I just smiled to God when I saw that and told the lady, "I really like your plaque". God had spoken to me and gave me confirmation to keep lifting up those in prayer that are doing what is right, even the man who almost hit me. He thought that ticket may bring him hope for his future, but Christ is the only thing that can do that. I hope he realizes he is a lucky man and doesn't need to play the lottery to prove that. Blessing does come at the appropriate time and when it does, we can somewhat understand why we had the valley, or the detour of the dream!!

Screwups and Sacrifice

2007-04-10T06:08:00.000-07:00

Two things that stand out from this past Easter weekend -
Screwups
Easter weekend at FRC kicked off a new series on confession. The series even has it's own website, called www.ivescrewedup.com. It is always so exciting to see others follow Christ with their life and this past weekend was no exception. The message was simple, yet packed with so much truth for the believer and the seeker. I personally think this is the best series we have ever done at FRC or maybe it is just being done at the perfect time. I believe the website has the potential to reach worldwide and allow so many people to have their screwups show them about the One who sacrificed for them. We are all screwups and yet, God chooses to use us. When we are willing...
Sacrifice
...He uses our imperfections and mess for His glory. This past weekend hundreds of those willing people showed up early at FRC to help with parking, pass out water, greet, make coffee, care for children, play instruments, run cameras, sing, and even dress up like the Easter bunny. Another 25-30 people showed up at 5:30am to help with parking and registration at Beach Baptism. I personally worked with that crew of volunteers and just want to extend a great big THANK YOU to them for how they gave of themselves on a cold Florida morning so others could come and follow Christ in obedience. Because of the sacrifice of the volunteer, God was able to have His Word reach the seeking and hurting heart. And God was also able to rejoice in heaven each time they stood for Him and each time they walked in the water and were immersed.
I know we celebrate big numbers because it is Easter and more than the norm come to church for the holiday. My personal thought and prayer is that, I hope all those who witnessed how great God is either through the message or serving, will treat each day as if it were Easter!

IN on the Action

2007-04-05T19:09:00.000-07:00

A few days ago I was reading the following from the Bible (Message). I started reading the Book of Acts. I read the following in the intro section of the book, "The story of Jesus does not end with Jesus, it continues on IN the lives of those who believe in Him...Christians are not spectators of the faith, they are IN on the action of God, God acting in them, God living in them, which also means, of course, in us." As I read this I thought about how it reminded me of someone whose life has modeled being IN on the action, not a spectator. His name is Bob Johnson. I met Bob over 17 years ago. He has always been a constant and faithful doer of the Word. Bob has served in Student Ministry as his main place of service since I have known him. He has helped with Student camps, 3 on 3 tourneys, leading small groups and so much more. When he is not giving of his time and talents in Student Ministry, you could find him greeting at the front doors of the main service. Bob's life has always modeled servanthood. He has never volunteered in order to impress man or be put in the forefront. He has served Christ with his life and with the gifts that God has given him out of obedience and love for His Savior. Bob is someone who "gets" that intro statement that I read in Acts. His life shows that the story of Jesus truly continues on in 2007.
Bob and his wife, Barb are moving to Georgia this week. You would think that his week would be filled with packing, closing on his home and focusing on his personal needs. Yet, he still found time to meet up with the Student Ministry team as we had a camp planning day. Thank you, Bob for your sacrifice. There are not enough words to truly express our gratitude, but I do know there are rewards awaiting you in eternity for your commitment and faithfulness.

Not part of my plan

2007-04-03T12:08:00.000-07:00

Monday was going to be an exciting day for me because Chad, our student pastor and my boss had told Carson and I that we could take Monday off to rest and get ready for our big Easter weekend. I had plans to go to the beach on my own, then get my car washed and repot some plants that needed new pots.
I did want to include my daughter in the plans, but she was hosting an elementary cheer camp and would be busy til 3pm. My husband had to get ready for a softball game, so I made these plans for just me, myself, and I!
Well, that is not exactly how the day turned out, but I wouldn't trade my day. I must admit, I was a little aggravated at first. My daughter told me the night before that she needed my help with registration. She and her friend, Jessi, were the organizers of the camp and my husband was the responsible adult, but at the last minute he couldnt be there. Thank goodness, I didnt have to be at my job, I thought. My plan was to go and leave, but it didnt go as planned. As I assisted my daughter and then ended up helping my husband get a last minute list of track team students into the FHSAA, I realized, that I was really having a great day working alongside my daughter and my husband with the things they were passionate about. Many times they had worked alongside me with jobs that I am passionate about. Families used to be more connected and work together for the sake of the team.
When my daughter and I got home, she had flicked on the tube and the Oprah show was on, guess what the topic was - family. Wow, God, I do know this, I thought, but it was again reinforced that there is nothing like family. In this day and age, we purposefully have to put our families first and schedule family time (as Rev Run spoke about on Oprah). When my children were smaller it seemed easier, I could plan the event. But I have learned to join them where they are in their life, whether its cheer camp for my daughter or concerts and Gator games with my son. My family is the legacy I leave and sometimes the place I hear God speak the loudest!
Yesterday wasn't part of my plan, but it was definitely how God planned it would be!