Bring on the candy...

I spent some time carving pumpkins with the kids last night in preparation for the annual candy haul.

Tonight we're planning on heading out in the rain to collect some more junk food that isn't needed but will most likely be enjoyed.

You taking the kids out? Or do you stay home and give candy out?

Snooze alarm...

I got a new alarm clock as a birthday gift (amongst some other stuff I don't deserve but am grateful to have received) on Tuesday.

I set it up and guess what happened Wednesday morning? It didn't go off.

I read the instruction manual (go figure) last night and tried again.

This morning it went off. I proceed to hit snooze. This is an important fact because I am a HUGE supporter of the snooze button. Much to the general annoyance of the woman I share a bed with.

So I close my eyes and head back for what I can only assume will be a great 9 minutes of near bliss.

But there's one problem. It's a fairly significant problem too. Apparently Sony has arbitrarily decided to make my snooze only 5 minutes long!

Huh?!?!

That's not a snooze. That's a long blink. That doesn't count. And now I've been robbed of future snoozing.

I'm curious, are you a proponent of a 9 minute "proper snooze" or the 5 minute "long blink snooze"?

Old...

I turn 31 tomorrow.

Hold you applause.

First sign of old age? I'm looking to buy a new bag. Yeah, a bag.

You know, one that goes over your shoulder and holds your crap.

My last NYWC bag (they give you a freebie every year at the convention) is almost ready to disintegrate and since I'm not a huge fan of the one they gave out this year I'm on the hunt.

Yeah. Meaningless. Trivial. And somewhat embarrassing.

But it is what it is.

Any recommendations?

Cool...

Excuse the lack of any interesting words to describe this.

But I was reading Jonathan Heron's (a pastor in Kent, Ohio) blog today and read this story. Which I just found cool. Yes...cool.

Crazy - The Kent Stage is TRASHED from last night's Halloween downtown bash. Our volunteers have been cleaning and setting up since 7am.

So a party-goer is walking down Main St this morning, hears our band doing run-through, and comes in looking for an "After-Party." We explain we're a church and - long story short - he's inside right now helping clean floors!!

How does your church (and by "your" I actually mean "God's", but you know what I'm getting at) meet people in the community?

Should have seen it coming...

Last Wednesday was a great night with my students.

So, what happens tonight?

Yup...chaos.

Only half the students that signed up for worship team show up.

The computer swallows iTunes.

The illustration video had it's dubbing completely off.

The sound system had a major glitch and wouldn't play any sound from the laptop, so we had to run cables and rig up something that would work.

There was a lack of focus from the students.

The leaders were grouping together.

The teacher took FOREVER to get going.

(That was me, by the way.)

Sigh.

There's always next week.

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All things Batman...

This got a chuckle out of me.

Finally...

It took a little while, but we have a winner.

Phil's post gets him a free copy of Matthew Paul Turner's Churched. He just needs to email me his address. Congrats Phil! Here's his story.

How about a story from camp when I was 6 or 7?

I'll tell the story anyways.

I went to bible camp when I was 6 or 7 and one of the nights they played the old scare 'em into heaven movie: "Thief in the Night". Don't ask me why they thought that was a good idea but it sure freaked me out. For weeks/months afterwards I had nightmares of being left behind. In the dream I was standing at the top of a huge hydro electric dam and I have to jump to escape the government that is trying to capture me.

Happy turkey day...

We're a week late, but it'll have to do. It's officially Thanksgiving for us today.

The turkey is upstairs in the oven. Erin is making pie. The kids are cleaning (huh?). And me? I've found a way to play some mini-hockey with Aidan, play guitar while watching some John Mayer concert on the TV, and now I'm catch up on some blog reading.

Yes, I'm the lazy one in the family.

In other news, my youngest child decided that it would be a great idea to stand on my guitar case and jump onto the chair. Really?!?! How is that EVER a good idea?

If I could ground her, you wouldn't see her until her 20th birthday.

In other news, our church participated in a subsistence diet this last week. The idea was for everyone (who was willing) to eat only rice and beans for a portion of the week. Then we were supposed to take all the money we would have spent on our own food and buy groceries that we could donate to the local Food Bank.

(By the way, I got my butt kicked and barely made it through one day. I'm such a wimp.)

This morning everyone was encouraged to bring the food forward as an offering and we piled the stage with boxes and bags. I'll admit that I struggle with the whole "look what we did" part of this (even though we specifically said this was not the point). But I'll also say that we probably made a baby step forward.

But I'm worried that it might end there. I'm worried that it might only fill a crack that exists (a lack of food) but that it won't push us to come up with any longterm solutions to combating poverty in our community. I'm worried this will only be a one time thing.

So, how do you push people to take it further?

I should not have done this on a day off...

I picked up Marko's new book "Youth Ministry 3.0" in Sacramento and decided that since Erin's partying it up elsewhere tonight that I would see how far through it I could get.

I finished it. Mind you, it's not a long book, so don't give me too much credit!

Anyways, Marko introduced us to many of the thoughts in this book when he led the last General Session at NYWC, so I felt that this book filled in many of the gaps that I was left with after his talk. In some ways I felt like the talk was a teaser for the book.

The book describes many of the major shifts that have occurred in youth ministry over the years and how he believes that we're making another shift now into what he would call Youth Ministry 3.0. A new approach to how we "do" it.

I'm just going to say a big I DON'T KNOW.

I am absolutely in agreement with some of what he says.

At the same time I find myself wrestling with other parts of it.

I've heard the arguments from many other youth pastors that the way we're doing it (youth ministry) isn't working. I've said it myself after watching countless students that have participated in leadership retreats and missions trips totally walk away from their faith.

It is frustrating and confusing.

Maybe I've done it wrong in the past. Maybe I'm doing it wrong now.

But then again, maybe that's life? Maybe that's what our journey with Jesus is supposed to look like? Maybe it is supposed to contain more living it out and less trying to figure it out?

I'm always trying to figure stuff out. How to teach better. How to understand teenagers better. How to reach parents. How to have quiet time. How to...how to...how to.

I wonder if maybe we're missing the "here and now" aspect. Maybe we need to stop trying to figure out the next great thing and do "here and now" what works.

I'm not even sure what that looks like. How do we ever know if it works? Are we supposed to?

Good stuff to think about though. But since I think so much about praxis, all this general thinking is causing my head to swirl at an unreasonably high rate. And that is just not allowed on a day off.

I'm going to have to find something mindless to do until Erin gets home.

Thoughts? (Not on what to do now. Thoughts on what I've rambled about?)

Oh hell no...

I was having an interesting conversation with a couple of people today about the fact that it is Pastor Appreciation month.

What?!?! You didn't know?!?!

Anyway, I thought this sign that we saw this past weekend in Sacramento was entirely too funny.

Wednesday reviewed...

I was stumbling around Facebook today and ran across this note that one of our students (who has very limited connections with church except through our student ministry) wrote on her page. It was just another simple reminder of why I do this.

my youth is so much fun and i always have a blast its on wednesday nights from 7-9 and sometimes they will have snacks at the end its so cool and i kno its at a church but u dont have to be christian to go to it tho.its at SOA Church its neary extra foods and ask me if u want to kno more anyone and the youth leaders are so nice too and they will Always accept u no matter who or maybe even what u are(lol)

Oh yeah, and we didn't even feed these kids last night!

Last night was something we're calling Sacred Space. Yes, a completely ripped off name, but it works for us. It's a night where we don't have a band, there is no speaker, no games, no graphics or videos, no food. It's just a way for students to connect, listen, talk and be with God in a different way (or I should probably say ways).

They paint, they pray, they write, they rest, they confess, they encourage, they read.

It was one of those nights where you can step back and see God doing His thing. It was one of those nights where nobody is in a hurry to leave. It was one of those nights that will ripple into next week and the week after that and the week after that.

Ever had one of those nights?

Churched review...

Ever wonder what it would have been like to grow up in a fundamentalist church? Well, now you can...without all the baggage. But I'm grateful Matthew Paul Turner has agreed to carry that baggage around for the rest of us.

OK, maybe he hasn't agreed, but at least he's willing to entertain the rest of us with his baggage. (Thanks, by the way!)

I didn't grow up in a fundamentalist church but I still found myself reading some of the stories in the book and flashing back to my school days when we would hear the horror stories about that "other" Christian school who would enforce the "6 inch rule" and made sure the guys never had hair that touched their collars or their ears.

And what Sunday School kid hasn't participated in some contest to bring the most unsaved friends to a church event?

Churched is Turner's comical (yet often uncomfortable) look into his upbringing. It's funny and sad all at the same time. Funny because you almost can't make this stuff up. Sad because many of us who have grown up in the church have seen one or more of these stories lived out in the flesh.

It's a quick read that I blazed through this weekend while at the NYWC in Sacramento. I'm sure you'll get a kick out of it. If not, then you can blame me if it makes you feel better. If you didn't get you copy yet, head over here and pick yourself up a copy.

Are you too cheap and want a free copy?

Then try this:

1. Post a comment to this review.
2. Include your favorite "church story" that happened to you in middle school or high school. (Hey, I'm a youth pastor! What did you expect?)
3. Leave some way that I can contact you.
   
4. The deadline is this Friday (October 17th). I'll choose and post the winner (and their story) sometime on the weekend and mail you a book next week.

Sound like a plan?

Comment now.

Can you hear me...

I'm concerned for you.
I haven't heard from you in a while.
Did you stop reading?
Consider this roll call.
Who's here?

Scarymento (day 3)...

All I would like to say is that tomorrow is Thanksgiving and instead of turkey I'll be eating In N' Out. And then I'll be driving. We should arrive home just in time for me to shower and go to work on Tuesday morning. Anyone feel like flying me back instead?

Scarymento (day 2)...

Lots of great stuff today with a little bit of "huh?" to top it all off. I think it's impossible to do a weekend conference like this and not experience something that makes you shake your head.

I don't want to take the time to walk you through it all because it's not really that exciting.

What I will tell you is that I have convinced a certain someone here with us in California to participate in NYWC speed dating tomorrow night. And all I had to offer was a free meal. I hope to have more details later.

So, what are you up to this weekend?

Scarymento (day 1)...

Well, it's not 27 degrees. It's actually windy and a little chilly. But at least I can see the sun.

We were on the road at 10:30pm last night and we pulled up to the hotel just before 2:30pm.

The only major meal consisted of a chicken burrito at Carl's Jr. Mmmmm!

We just finished adding the the American economy by shopping at the big Thursday night sale, and now we're going to try and find some food before Swarley the intern dies of hunger. He's a weak man.

churched...

Matthew Paul Turner's newest book "Churched" released today.

It's on my reading list for the weekend and I hope to have my review up next week.

In the meantime, if you would like to buy a copy, you can always go here.

I should probably pack...

Tomorrow after youth I head off to Sacramento. Can you say "sunshine"?

Would you like regular updates over the weekend or will you survive without me?

I am Canadian...

Have you voted for your "Hockey Night in Canada" theme song yet?

I'm currently waiting on my confirmation email so I can vote.

Yup, now this is politics that I can throw myself into.

For my American friends, all you need to know can be found here and here or here.

Or just watch this. And know that CBC lost the song to CTV. Not good for CBC.



Anyways, I think all of the 5 current song semifinalists are lackluster and will never come close to matching the emotions that one has experienced after being raised on the original. And I think that a couple of them may have been inspired by some B-grade from the 1980's. But, I guess everything has to change sooner or later, right?

So, which anthem are you voting for?

Balance...

I think it's a myth.

It's something designed by smart people so they can sell books to the rest of us who are gullible to believe that it is actually attainable.

With that said, I am learning how to manage my time, so would I technically be able to say that I am becoming "balanced"? If I am, should I write it down, publish it and try to sell it?

So, it's the infamous "day off" for me, so I'll share some randomness with you.

All things music...
Go listen to Charlie Hall's new CD called "The Bright Sadness". AWESOME! I'm attending the Passion World Tour on Monday in Vancouver and part of me would be more excited to hear Hall instead of Chris Tomlin. But the tickets are free, so who am I to complain?

All things film...
We watched "What Happens in Vegas" and "Son of Rambow". I preferred the latter. I'd recommend it. Tonight we're watching "The Love Guru".

All things written...
I've been a little slow with my reading lately due to my time management. Maybe I can get caught up this weekend. I also just received my two free hardcover copies of Matthew Paul Turner's "Churched" in the mail today. Yeah, two copies! And did I mention they were free? Does this mean I should start a blog contest? Or do I just give one away at youth on Wednesday?

Getting ready for...
We're headed to Sacramento next Thursday for NYWC. It's been two years since we've been and I've missed it. There's four of us making the journey, and some of the greatest people in the world (you guys know who you are!) are watching our kids for us.

Free stuff for you...
Go here and get Phil Wickam's "Singalong" for free.

Did you know...
If you go to Google, type in "find chuck norris" and click "I'm Feeling Lucky", you'll probably chuckle. I did. Even though I know Jack Bauer would destroy Norris.

Speaking of Bauer, did you see this yet?

Don't call me, I'll call you...

To my canuckleheaded friends, did you sign up for the "Do Not Call" list?

Or did you get a busy signal?

You can find the site at LNNTE-DNCL.gc.ca when it's actually up and running again.

Student ministry question of the week...

To my faithful following (if you're still there) that are somehow connected to student ministry, I'm curious to know how often you (or your youth pastor) host meetings just for parents?

Wednesday reviewed...

Message: PROXIMITY: Close to Others (Mark 2:1-12)
We used the passage of the 4 guys who carried a paralytic to Jesus and then lowered him through the roof so that they could get him to Jesus. The idea was to let the students visualize what lengths some people will go to in order to help someone else be changed by Jesus. We wrapped up with looking at Philippians 2 and talking about what Jesus gave up to set foot on earth.

Live Music:
Sing, Sing, Sing (Chris Tomlin)
Let Us Sing (Todd Fields)
All Because of Jesus (Steve Fee)
King of Majesty (Hillsong United)

Games: (out of a ***** system) (HS=high school; MS=middle school)
The Great Speed Meet (HS) ****
This is a tradition for starting the year and it's gone over really well every time we ave done it. Students pair up and sit across from one another in two lines. That means they are knee-to-knee while also having someone on their right and left. Each person has a list of questions they must ask the person opposite them while also answering the same questions. When we yell "switch" everyone moves one spot to their right and they repeat. When everyone has "met" everyone else we call up some volunteers and we see how much each "team" can remember about that person.
Masking Tape Game of Mayhem (MS) *****
Put masking tape on everyone's head or back and then try to rip the tape off other people. Easy enough, right? Yeah, apparently the middle schoolers enjoyed an excuse to gang up on Josh.
Poop Deck (MS) ***
I can't even explain. Josh led this one. But it requires running and occasionally yelling out pirate words. Apparently everyone was a little slow catching on.

Video:
"Jesus is My Friend" by Sonseed
"Jesus is My Friend (remix)" by David Crowder Band (played as students were leaving)

Numbers: 16 leaders, 45 students, 2 roles of masking tape

Special Stuff: We had a group of students carry another student around the room on a stretcher so that everyone could visualize what was maybe happening in Mark 2. At the end of the night we asked students to write something on a sticky note and then come paste it to the stretcher. "I will pray for...", "I will talk to...", "I will sit with...", etc. Simple, yet practical, follow through on how to work on growing closer to others.

What do you do...

It's Saturday.  What are you doing?

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Political commentary...

Disclaimer: I hate politics.

With that said, I'm absolutely enjoying the gong show that's currently happening south of the border. I've seen a few videos of Sarah Palin being interviewed on CBS and I'm not sure how anyone can take this woman seriously.





And this made me chuckle too.

The night before...

I've been working on a few work related things tonight.  I'm still trying to play catch up after a crazy Monday that saw me unable to complete anything on my "to do" list.  (Seriously, how hard is it to complete a message outline?!?!)

And now I'm in that strange mood the night before I'm supposed to teach at youth and I'm wondering if my message is even going to be ready to go by tomorrow night.  (You've been there right?)

I'm starting off a 3 week series that we're calling PROXIMITY.  The big idea for tomorrow is that we are meant to be in "proximity" to other people and we want to see students growing close to others.

But since I haven't taught a full message to my students since June, I'm feeling a little rusty.  And a little brain-fried.  And more than a little distracted.

And I'm wondering if this was the right message to kick off with, or if I should have started with our week two message that is about being in "proximity" to God and growing close to Him.

Yeah, great things to be considering the NIGHT before, eh?

And I'm blitzed.  Oh I hope this isn't a gong show...

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I'm a pagan...

OK, not really. At least not that I know of.

But here's the latest reading conquests.

Book #39 - Pagan Christianity by Frank Viola and George Barna
This one was on the radar for a while. Then the staff team at the church decided that we were going to have a philosophy of ministry discussion at an upcoming half-day retreat (this Thursday). I had the thought that this might give me some food for thought.

While I'm not sure how much of it will actually contribute to our conversation, or even to my train of thought as I prepare for the discussion, I did find the church history lesson to be somewhat enlightening. And while it's hard to argue with some of the facts of history, I can't say that I agree with every critique that the book levels at where we are currently at in the contemporary church. At the same time I did find myself nodding along (not in a sleepy kind of way) with some of the thoughts and questions raised.

The big idea seems to be that the church has moved away from its New Testament roots and has started to function in such a way that most people have become passive observers in a community where they should be active participants. Lead pastors? Bad? Youth pastors? Bad. Church buildings? Bad. Salaries? Bad. Baptism and Communion? Not bad, but not done the right way. House church? Good.

The concept of house churches seems to be the latest fad (is that too strong of a word?) and while I see a lot of merit to them, I don't know if I would say that we have to throw out everything the church (in it's current western, evangelical understanding) is doing in favor of them.

I've been informed that this is only one book in what's supposed to be an ongoing conversation, so I've been hooked into this now. I can't help but think about the fascinating conversations that could happen as a result of this book.

If anyone else has read it, I'd love to hear your impressions.

Book #40 - Rusty Nail by J.A. Konrath
This just seems somewhat embarrassing and trivial after the last book review, but I read book one and two, so why stop there? I'll save you the details as this has basically become my male equivalent of watching a soap opera.

Book #41 - Dirty Martini by J.A. Konrath
He has a fourth book too, so it was only natural to read this one. Again, I'll spare you the review as it didn't stimulate much in the way of worthy talking points.

Proof...

I know you probably don't doubt me, but check out the "Top Scorers" section on the right side of the page.

The weekend update...

Friday
Erin's 31st birthday. Starbucks, blueberry muffin, shopping, The Keg.

Saturday
Soccer. Aidan's soccer: a 6-2 loss, but he had a blast. My soccer: we won 13-1 (the ref ended the game almost 15 minutes early!). I scored 3 (my first hat trick in some time. Ah, the good ole days.)

Sunday
First Sunday of the new worship model at church. I was skeptical coming in, but after one Sunday I'm thinking this just might work.

United draws 1-1 with Chelsea. At least it wasn't a loss...

Now, I shall make myself comfortable with some books on the couch.

Flip the page...

Book #38 - It by Craig Groeschel
I picked this up at Leadership Summit. I don't find Craig to be the most profound author, yet I'm constantly intrigued by some of his ideas and I find that he gives me a creative boost. I have been trying to read a chapter each morning in the office so I can get my brain into cruising speeds.

The book focuses on the "it" factor. It's when you step inside a church, you look around and you know that they have "it". You know that they are doing something right.

He unpacks what people tend to mean by "it" and works through some basic principles for how you can have "it" and keep "it".

I'm currently balancing Craig (who I think would adhere to a church policy of dream it, build it, try it) out with George Barna & Frank Viola's Pagan Christianity. Talk about two completely different perspectives of how to do church. I'm halfway through it, so the review will be up eventually.

She's pretty...

I remember falling in love with my wife.

And I'm not just saying that because her birthday is tomorrow.

But I also remember falling in love here.

The link was taken down, but the object of my affection is pictured to your immediate left.













And now I have once again fallen in love.






















She's pretty, wouldn't you agree?

Wednesday reviewed...

Last night we kicked off our student ministries.

Hmm...that makes it sound like we haven't done anything all summer. And I know at least one parent who thinks I was doing nothing for the last few months. But that's a topic for another day.

Anyways, here's a quick glimpse into what we did last night.

Theme: Kick-Off Night

Message: No official "message" as this was an intro to what we will be doing in the near future. We gave the students a little form to fill out and we talked about some upcoming ways that they can get involved. I also gave the "B.O. Speech". It goes like this, "WEAR DEODORANT".

Live Music:
Our Love is Loud (David Crowder)
All Because of Jesus (Steve Fee)
Sing, Sing, Sing (Chris Tomlin)
Make a Joyful Noise/I Will Not Be Silent (David Crowder)
Marvelous Light (Charlie Hall)

Games: (out of a ***** system)
Baby Blocks Time Trial ****
Two students are blindfolded and must put baby blocks in a container by their appropriate shapes. Quick, easy and mildly entertaining.
LazerTag Teams -***** (yes, that's minus stars. It was bad. Huge flop.)
I'll spare you the agonizingly difficult explanation for a game that went over like a lead fart. It sounded good when we planned it, but then it just didn't work itself out well.
Pool Noodle Name Game ***
Stand up, say your name and then say someone else's name before the person in the middle can swat you with a pool noodle. Yeah, a classic. And a great way to learn names.
Human Rock, Paper, Scissors ****
Guys vs girls. The entire team acts out one of the chosen objects. Funny stuff.

Video:
"2007-2008 Highlight Video" (we played this in the background as students were arriving)
"Meet Josh", a funny video made by one of our leaders to introduce our newest intern.

Numbers: 14 leaders, 48 students, 6 pizzas, 180 Timbits

Special Stuff: Group prayer for 2 of our leaders who are heading off to YWAM next week. I was tempted to pray that YWAM would shut its doors so that they would stay with us. But, it was cool to watch our entire group surround them and lay hands on them and pray for them.

Tuesday tunings...

A few random items for your reading enjoyment.

• Maybe it's just me, but the new season of Prison Break is horrible. It has now been removed from my "watch this" list.
• I was recently selected to participate in a blog tour for an upcoming book release. I'll post some more info fairly soon. The official tour happens in October.
  
• Student Ministry "stuff" (that's pastoral lingo for you) kicks off tomorrow night. I still have a handful of leaders in limbo while they decide whether or not to commit to the upcoming year. I'm hoping we get it sorted out soon. Nothing quite like waiting to the last minute, eh?
  
• Watched "Fringe". I may watch episode 2 tonight. Kind of like X-Files meets I, Robot.

Curious, what new shows are you watching this fall?

What hit me...

I spent the day at home on the couch since I'm feeling like I was run over by a truck or something.  I was up, my mind racing, until after 3:30am.  When I finally stumbled out of bed this morning I wasn't too sure that a full work day was on my list of things that needed to be accomplished.  Erin said I wasn't looking good either (and normally she thinks I'm fairly good looking).

So, it was back to bed with me.

And then when I dragged myself out of bed I found my place on the couch.

My afternoon consisted of some reading and watching half a season of "How I Met Your Mother".

And to top it all off it's 27 degrees outside.

So, what do you do when you're sick?

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Ah crap...

United - Liverpool.

Berbatov & Tevez looked good out of the gates.

A goal in th first five minutes.

Things are clicking.

And then they fall apart.  2-1 for the Scousers.

Oh well.  Now I'll focus on the 2pm kick-off for my men's league soccer.

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Can God heal in this...

A couple of months ago I received a link to a website that was built around a song called "Healer". It was a very moving and emotional video that was shared the story of a man who was diagnosed with cancer who went on the write a song that cried out to God for healing. One portion of the video shows a band performance of the song by Mike Gugliemucci who is on stage wearing an oxygen mask. I was moved by the song and the story behind the song.

Here's the original video.



Then, a few weeks ago, it comes out that Mike had faked his battle with cancer. He had deceived his own family and made the whole thing up to cover up an addiction to pornography.

You can watch the story on YouTube via an Australian news agency below.



But as I watched, I was drawn back to the song. I think of the people who sang it week after week expressing their faith and belief that God would heal them. I think of the people who prayed for Mike. I think of the people who fight their own battles with disease and sickness. And I wonder what is going through their minds.

I know we can probably talk about how susceptible we are to emotions and music. I know we can debate the merits and evils of relying on contemporary songs for "worship". And I think we could probably dive into the whole world of the effects of pornography.

But I find myself drawn back to the words of the song. As fraudulent as they may have been at one time, can God not redeem them and use them?

So, my question for you is this. Could you use the song to lead people in worship? Or would you place it "on the shelf"?

Healer

You hold my every moment
You calm my raging seas
You walk with me through fire
And heal all my disease

I trust in You
I trust in You

I believe You're my Healer
I believe You are all I need
I believe You're my Portion
I believe You're more than enough for me
Jesus You're all I need

My Healer, You're my Healer

Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You
Nothing is impossible for You
You hold my world in Your hands

Farewell...

Being without internet access during the vacation I didn't hear this news until my return home.

LeRoi Moore, one of the founding members of Dave Matthews Band passed away on August 19 from complications related to a previous ATV accident back in June.

No doubt, he will be missed by family, friends and fans.

I'm curious as to how they replace him.

Book it...

Bryce was curious as to what I've been reading lately. Here you go.

Book #31 - Black Friday by James Patterson
I needed some mindless reading for the beach, so this is the one I went for. So much talk about stock markets and crashes...it made my head hurt.

Book #32 - Whiskey Sour by J.A. Konrath
I discovered this author while reading a short story in this book. I found the book in some little off-the-beaten-path bookshop in Maui for $3.50. The subject matter is a little intense, but again it was a beach read.

Book #33 - Going All the Way by Craig Groeschel
I hadn't read a relationship/marriage book for a while, so when I stumbled across this one at Leadership Summit a few weeks ago I figured I'd drag it with me on the plane and maybe learn a thing or two. Also, it's been a while since I did any pre-marital counseling and I'm thinking it may be time to expand the resources. As for the book...it's a quick, easy read. A little simplistic at times and maybe a little cliche, but in a day and age where so many marriages fail, maybe we need to focus on some of the more simple things. I'd recommend the book to a younger couple that was thinking about getting married.

Book #34 - Thriller edited by James Patterson
I wanted to find some new authors, so I grabbed this collection of short stories. This was the wrong way to find a new author. Basically I had to grit my teeth and fight my way through a score of stories that did nothing to captivate my attention. It was a mammoth of a book to get through so at some point, rather than just return it to the library, it became a personal battle. I was going to finish that entire thing and reign as champion. I am the champ now. But the book fails to recognize me for my feat.

Book #35 - Lord Save Us From Your Followers by Dan Merchant
It had a discount sticker on it at the outlet book store. I have heard of the movie, so I figured I'd gibe the book a shot. At times I was saying to myself that this was beyond cheesy as the author heads out into public covered in bumper stickers and tries to initiate conversation about the culture war that exists between Christians and the rest of the world. Yet, at other times I found myself appreciating the heart and message of so much of what Dan spoke or captured in his various interviews. It's another example of how "Christians" have been missing the mark of loving people and how it's time to do things differently.

Book #36 - Bloody Mary by J.A. Konrath
I read the first book in the series so I figured I'd try book 2. It's kind of the same, only different.

Book #37 - Smashed: Story of a Drunken Girlhood by Koren Zailckas
This memoir traces Koren's battle with alcohol from her teenage years, through her college years and into her working life. I'll admit that I found it odd that someone who had such a massive battle with alcohol would never actually label herself as an alcoholic. But then again, I've just learned that there is a difference between and alcoholic and an alcohol abuser. Either way, this story was gut-wrenching, saddening, eye-opening and even hopeful. A story of the darker side of alcohol and how one can escape it's clutches.


Just curious, what are you reading these days?

Thursday is Friday...

Fall is officially underway.

The kids both started school this week. We had a mild scare yesterday around 5:00pm when the principal called to say they and switched Becca into a different class. No discussion, no questions asked. They just switched her.

Well, after Erin and I talked it over we decided that we should at least meet face to face to talk the decision over. We felt that the class she was in was much better suited for her personality and that relationally she would fit better in her current class.

So we called to express our concerns and the principal agreed to meet with all three of us this morning. But this morning the principal called and said that she had considered what we had said. She decided that Becca could stay in her current class.

Whew!

I think Becca's prayer time tonight consisted of repetitions of "thank you that I get to stay in my class". There's at least two happy parents too.

Other than that, soccer is kicking off (EPL, Aidan and myself), youth is gearing up, kick-off events are around the corner, and the nights are starting to disappear. I've also been asked if I would consider leading a worship team (other than our student band) for the upcoming year.

Yeah...lots to sort through still.

So, what are you most looking forward to this fall?

Vacation review (part 6)...

August 20

We wrapped up the trip with some more time on the beach and by doing some more snorkeling.

And in case you ever want to see a turtle, here's some advice. Just sit on the beach until someone yells "turtle".

Yup...I actually took that photo myself. I'm a regular oceanographer (that's the one that takes photos in the ocean right?).






After checking out we stored our gear, jumped in the Jeep and went exploring.














There is more beauty around every bend on this island. (The girl on the right is by far prettier than the goof on the left.)













One final sunset before heading for the airport.

I don't think our flight left until after 11:00pm Maui time. I tried to watch Iron Man on the airplane since that was the first time I've ever been on a plane that showed a decent movie during the flight. But I didn't make it.

And guess what we arrived home to?

You guessed it...rain. It felt like winter here.

Vacation review (part 5)...

August 19

Did you know that if you sit through an hour and a half time share presentation you can get $100 and a coupon that will get you 50% off a future stay?

Yes, we will subject ourselves to sitting and listening with absolutely no intention of purchasing anything. They figured it out early on and let us off easy. But we were ahead by that time.

Then we were off to the beach.

A picture is worth a thousand words.

So here's 4 thousand words.

All from 800 feet.

Vacation review (part 4)...

I forgot to mention something in yesterday's recap. Since August 17th happened to fall on a Sunday I caved to my wife's request to go to church. (I'm usually an avid supporter of not attending church while on vacation. I'm still trying to come to grips with how I can attend church without "thinking church". It's complicated.)

Anyway, we found one that started at 8am and was held in a oceanfront restaurant ("church on the beach" seemed like a neat idea at the time.). Now, I don't want to sound too critical, but that's 75 minutes of my life that I won't get back. Seriously, it was actually painful. It fulfilled almost every bad stereotype of church you've probably ever heard. In fact, I was contemplating leaving midway when a mom & two kids seated at the table next to us decided to get up and leave. I had missed my window of opportunity.

Anyway on to the next day...

August 18

We slept in until 8:30am. And since we were still a little tired from all the travel the day before, we had to settle for the beach. I know...rough life, eh?

We also decided to head out on some jetskies for an hour. What a blast! But I think the highlight of that adventure was just sitting on the jetski amidst a school of dolphins. There must have been 25-30 dolphins swimming around us, so we just sat and watched for the last 15 minutes of our rental time.

And I was too lazy to bring the waterproof camera! Sheesh!

After some more beach time in the afternoon, we headed into Lahaina to grab some grub and do a little shopping. I think we hit up every little shop on Front Street and nearly got lost in a little obscure, back-alley bookstore that was floor-to-ceiling books. (Hey, we needed some more reading for the beach!)

As you notice, there weren't many photos from this day. Erin took a picture of me napping after my strenuous day at the beach. It's not that pretty, so here's the other picture.

Vacation review (part 3)...

August 17

Around 10:00am we jumped in the Jeep and decided to hit the infamous road to Hana. It's 53 miles from Kahului to Hana but the drive will take at least 2 1/2 to 3 hours (sometimes longer depending on your stops).

Approximately 600 curves (not that I counted). 50-some bridges (most of which are single lane). It's safe to say that this is a full day journey in and of itself.







We grabbed some Carl's Jr beforehand (can you say "burrito and Mountain Dew for breakfast"?).

I enjoyed my meal.










Erin? Not so much.

We made the trip to Hana as long as possible by stopping at almost every little place that the map told us would worthy of checking out.






Tree climbing.









Waterfalls.









Black sand beaches.









Road signs (Erin's favorite one).









Sacred pools.













Oh...and I drove topless.

By the way, did you know that the rental company will charge you $75 if you don't put the top on the Jeep before you return it? While I didn't have to learn this the hard way, I am grateful that the valet at the hotel knew what he was doing. I think he saved me $75.

However, we did find out that as soon as you take the top off the Jeep, it is likely to rain, even in Maui. We got soaked! But within 15 minutes the rain and the clouds were gone.

We stopped at Hana Bay for supper. Did you ever want to know what Subway looks like after sitting in a Jeep for almost 6 hours?

Yeah, it was as disgusting as it looks.

We had to settle for fish crackers and a wedge of pineapple.



We capped the day off with pizza at The Round Table.

Just another day in paradise.

Vacation review (part 2)...

As promised...

August 14 (The Plane & The Arrival)

We ended up sitting behind the "college crew" on the plane. You know, the cool guy (who tries to order 2 beers 10 minutes into the flight) and his cool girlfriend (who like tries to like enjoy the like trip with her like friends). Then there's the other couple (quieter and more subdued than couple one, but almost identical looking at first glance). Then there's the jock. And let's wrap it all up with the geeky guy. It was a 6 hour cultural experiment.

By the time we got off the plane in Maui, got our rental vehicle, figured out how to get the windows down in said rental vehicle, bought some supper and got checked into the hotel it was 2:44am BC time. And just what do two tired and hungry people eat at 2:44am?

Judge for yourself.




August 15 (The 10th Anniversary)

The alarm clock didn't go off (as I don't set it on vacation) but the numbers almost scared me.

Seriously, what was I doing up at 7:45am?!?! On a freaking vacation?!?!

We spent all day hanging out, buying books & groceries, swimming, snorkeling (saw a turtle), and watching the sunset. Then we took in a meal at The Outback Steakhouse. Mmmm....cheese fries!

And a grown up conversation. Sometimes I forget what those are like. You just get used to kids voices and kids stealing the conversation. And you're usually in a hurry to get out of the restaurant so you can get them home and to bed in time. But not tonight.

Funniest moment: being asked if we were on our honeymoon. I guess Erin looks young!

FYI, I married the prettiest girl in the world.

August 16 (More Beach)

Up at 7:00am?!?!

If you know us, this is beyond unusual. We're late sleepers. But I guess we wanted to suck every moment of sunshine out of this trip that we could.

At least I could use the time to do a little reading (one of the few items that was on my agenda for the week).

What else? Well, is there anything else to do but hang out on the beach? Swim. Read. Swim. Snorkel. Read. Repeat. Any questions?

Part 3 of this recap will come soon.

Vacation review (part 1)...

I mean well. I really do.

I plan to share some highlights and photos with you.

But my folks are around, it's the kids' birthdays (yes, both kids celebrate this week), and I'm back to work. It's not crazy busy, but I'm just going to focus on other things right now. So you'll have to settle for a little tease until I can carve out some time to plunk away at the computer.

In the meantime, this was the view from our room.

Back...

We made it back from the beach.

Now it feels like winter.

And I feel like I've been run over by a truck.

But, would it be inappropriate for me to start looking for a job in Maui?

Anyone want to plant a church with me?

Oh, and don't worry, I'll fill you in with the details and a few pictures over the days to come.

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See you next week...

Tomorrow is my 10 year anniversary.

I love this lady. (Even though she doesn't blog anymore.)

The two of us are headed to Maui for the next week.

I am stoked!

I contemplated taking the laptop and trying to jump online to do some blogging while I was away, but that's a stupid idea.

I'll show you some pictures when I get back.

You must play...

Go and play this game.

Check your sense of humor at the door.

I think my time was 4:20 or something.

NoiseTrade Widget

Fair trade music...

Forget the coffee and the diamonds, check out the tunes!

Go check out NoiseTrade.com. Listen to an artist. If you like them, buy the album for whatever price you think is fair. Or refer three friends and get the album for free. (Or maybe it's $1. I haven't got that far yet as I'm still sampling artists and trying to see if I like any.)

A few artists have done this in the past (Radiohead, Derek Webb, Downhere) and I think it's a great idea for getting word of your stuff out there. And the potential for finding some obscure artists that you wouldn't normally hear is what intrigues me the most.

So, check the site out here.

Or stay tuned in via their blog where they explain it all and update you when they add new artists.

No Sasquatch...

But man, did it rain. It started Saturday morning and it stopped long enough for us to start a fire before it started again. Water everywhere. So much water. The girls slept in all the cars because their tents were water logged. One guys tent could be labeled "waterfront property" based on the size of the lake that gathered right outside the tent doors.

One leader slept in a raft. I kid you not.
I slept like crap. I didn't eat well. (In case you forgot, I did the cooking. Ask me sometime about my 35lb iron pot and how we were able to feed 22 people canned ravioli without a can opener or spoon.) We were also unable to do a single thing we planned. Yet everyone seems to have had a blast. As for me, I should probably just go to bed now. But the Community Shield has drawn me in. (I'd link to the Community Shield for you but I don't want to ruin the score. I have almost made it through the first half.) Ok...goodnight. On to the second half.

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Sasquatch hunting...

It's almost time for the camping trip.

I'm nervous. It looks like the rain will make an appearance (stupid Lower Mainland weather). I'm in charge of food. I'm still not sure what everything will end up looking like.

And exactly how would one go about hunting and trapping a sasquatch?

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More random...

Another random video was brought to my attention today.

How do you feel about kids that make videos of themselves lip syncing to various songs?

Me?  I laugh.

That could be due to the fact that I remember making "music videos" in high school with a couple of my friends.  Hmm...maybe I'm on YouTube.

In other news, this week has been a blur.

• The intern started, so I'm trying to help him get settled.  I'm looking forward to working with him in the upcoming year, but I know it's going to be a ton of work.
• I spent almost 2 hours on the phone tonight with my mom trying to help her set up her new computer.  I'm now officially "Tech Support".  I won't send her a bill as she was kind enough to raise me and feed me.
  
• Leadership Summit starts tomorrow.  Why do I agree to go on this 2 day adventure with the staff when I have a youth camping trip that starts Friday?  Because sometimes I make bad decisions and I don't say "no".
• The camping trip starts Friday.  16 students, 7 leaders and a sasquatch.  I'm of mixed emotions right now.  I just hope (and pray) that the weather turns out to be dry and sunny.  (God, do you hear me?)
• My folks arrive on Sunday night.  They're spending almost 3 weeks with us.
• The "BIG" anniversary trip is looming.  I've probably been showing a lack of enthusiasm lately for the trip, but I'm just trying to keep myself sane until we leave.

So, now I'm blogging and watching Manchester United play Juventus.  I should probably go to bed and do a little reading.

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Anything is possible at...

Zombo.com

Go.

Your mind will be blown.

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