Don't you love pleasant surprises?!
Sunday morning we were on the receiving end of a great surprise. I was standing in Frank's office getting ready for our team meeting when in walked Joy (our middle daughter), then John (our amazing son-in-law) which is totally normal. Then came the surprise - John's mom (Linda) and John's dad (also John). It was such a shock to see them standing there that it really took my brain a minute to compute.
John's parents live in Poughkeepsie, NY (hope I got close to the proper spelling on that) and as you know, that is a really long way from Winter Haven, FL. So they don't ever just "drop by" to enjoy church with us. Much squealing ensued (on my part); thankfully Frank stayed poised and greeted them warmly but with a measure of decorum. That way we know they won't be concerned about the future grandchildren being around the "other" grandparents (that would be us.)
Actually, John and Linda Schreck - yes, that really is their last name and she is a children's pastor- are an answer to many years of prayer. Young mom's, you shouldn't feel foolish at all for praying now over the future spouse of your children. Pray for their extended families too. When Joy and John decided to get married, we were delighted to discover that his family were also Christians who had endeavored to rear a Godly young man. So, their wedding truly was a celebration of two families coming together.
To quote the immortal philosopher - Sally Field, "We like each other. We really, really like each other!"
So after church, the Schrecks called other friends from NY who have moved here to be near grandchildren (not a bad idea, Linda) and we all invaded a local restaurant. The hostess wisely seated us away from the main dining area because we were already so loud in the lobby.
Isn't it annoying when a group of people think they are the only ones in the restaurant and they laugh loudly, talk across one another loudly, even seem to order loudly?! Goodness!! Well, yesterday, we were that group of people. Not that any of the other guests asked to be moved elsewhere. But I did notice that as the tables around us cleared out, the hostess was a bit slow to reseat them. Guess we were a little louder than we thought! Smile.
The really neat thing was that while Linda and John's surprise visit (their flight back to NY from Ft. Lauderdale had been canceled so they rented a car and scooted up to Winter Haven) was a delight to us, it really was a divine appointment of sorts.
Linda's friend moved down here several months ago and in the midst of all the drama involved in relocating one's life, she also began to experience some severe health problems. So yesterday Linda and I were able to step off to the side at one point and pray together with her dear friend. And Linda was able to lavish her with generous hugs and reassuring smiles throughout the meal.
Before parting ways, I looked at the friend and said, "Wow, how special are you?! The Lord knew you really needed an extra boost right now so He allowed Kennedy Airport to close up just long enough for John and Linda to swing by with some "NY family love" for you. I'd say you must be one of His favorites!" She smiled and nodded with big tears in her eyes.
Truth is, we're all His favorites. I'm not sure how He manages that but I'm certainly glad He does. It's just our part to watch for the special moments He sends our way that say, "I love you. I hear your whispered prayers. I'm with you." Pleasant surprises - what a gift!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Friday, March 12, 2010
The Very Bad Day!
Yesterday was a "very bad, terrible, nasty, horrible, oh-my-goodness, hope-I-never-have-to-experience-another-one-like-this" kind of day. Yep, it really was just that bad. (It seems that I can almost hear the collective, "Awwww, what happened?" And I appreciate your concern, truly!)
Since you asked, I'll give you the highlights. At 9:50, I was traveling north on Hwy. 17 moving toward a previously scheduled appointment. At approximately 9:57, I arrived at said destination and began walking toward the banquet facility where I was to meet our youth pastor in order to discuss plans for sound and lighting. At exactly 10:00..............(just kidding. I always wondered what it must be like to write for a detective show. Not as much fun as I thought.)
Anyway, basically what happened is this. Around ten-thirty yesterday morning, I discovered that the venue we had selected last January for our upcoming anniversary celebration was probably a no-go. Ten short days before people begin arriving from as far away as MO and TN, I find out that there is a DEFINITE problem with our "contract". I am choosing to spare you the horrid details.
But all in a matter of five short hours: my insides turned to jello as I reread the contract with new perspective and saw that their wording did not mean what our team had interpreted it to mean; I had to call in reinforcements to join me in meeting the event planner; I had to pull it together and lead an intense verbal confrontation (which I hate doing just as much as you do);had to make calls taking responsibility for the mistake; had to make several quick decisions (which I also do not like doing); and finally settled on a totally different venue!
I know that at this point in the post I'm supposed to say something cute, quirky, encouraging; but sometimes those of us who are eternal optimists get on our OWN nerves! (Okay, so that made even me smile.)
It really was a pretty bad day and I learned a lesson that I will share many times in the coming years. Hopefully I can help others avoid the agony, embarrassment and frustration I encountered throughout the day. It was very much like being at the ocean facing the shore when suddenly a huge wave catches you from behind by surprise. One minute you're standing enjoying the sunshine and the next minute you're tumbling in swirling water and don't know which way to push your feet in order to find solid ground.
The good news is this: we lived to tell about it; deeper bonds were formed with the ladies I work with and our team (who jumped in with assistance and encouragement); and I'm hopefully a little smarter this morning than I was yesterday morning.
Kinda funny - when I got up early this morning it was raining hard and we have an eighty per cent chance of rain until tonight; there is no sun coming out today at all. (You know, the theme song of all eternal optimists - "The sun'll come out tomorrow......." Totally ironic! Smile.)
Oh well, it's good to remember that "it came to pass." That's actually one of my favorite promises in the Bible. It's kind of like my life preserver when times are tough. No trouble or difficulty stays forever. Life moves on; things change. Eventually it all comes to pass. (Feel free to use that floatie any time you'd like.)
Time to get moving and see what today holds. One thing is for sure, I have a ninety per cent chance that it will be better than yesterday! Smile.
Since you asked, I'll give you the highlights. At 9:50, I was traveling north on Hwy. 17 moving toward a previously scheduled appointment. At approximately 9:57, I arrived at said destination and began walking toward the banquet facility where I was to meet our youth pastor in order to discuss plans for sound and lighting. At exactly 10:00..............(just kidding. I always wondered what it must be like to write for a detective show. Not as much fun as I thought.)
Anyway, basically what happened is this. Around ten-thirty yesterday morning, I discovered that the venue we had selected last January for our upcoming anniversary celebration was probably a no-go. Ten short days before people begin arriving from as far away as MO and TN, I find out that there is a DEFINITE problem with our "contract". I am choosing to spare you the horrid details.
But all in a matter of five short hours: my insides turned to jello as I reread the contract with new perspective and saw that their wording did not mean what our team had interpreted it to mean; I had to call in reinforcements to join me in meeting the event planner; I had to pull it together and lead an intense verbal confrontation (which I hate doing just as much as you do);had to make calls taking responsibility for the mistake; had to make several quick decisions (which I also do not like doing); and finally settled on a totally different venue!
I know that at this point in the post I'm supposed to say something cute, quirky, encouraging; but sometimes those of us who are eternal optimists get on our OWN nerves! (Okay, so that made even me smile.)
It really was a pretty bad day and I learned a lesson that I will share many times in the coming years. Hopefully I can help others avoid the agony, embarrassment and frustration I encountered throughout the day. It was very much like being at the ocean facing the shore when suddenly a huge wave catches you from behind by surprise. One minute you're standing enjoying the sunshine and the next minute you're tumbling in swirling water and don't know which way to push your feet in order to find solid ground.
The good news is this: we lived to tell about it; deeper bonds were formed with the ladies I work with and our team (who jumped in with assistance and encouragement); and I'm hopefully a little smarter this morning than I was yesterday morning.
Kinda funny - when I got up early this morning it was raining hard and we have an eighty per cent chance of rain until tonight; there is no sun coming out today at all. (You know, the theme song of all eternal optimists - "The sun'll come out tomorrow......." Totally ironic! Smile.)
Oh well, it's good to remember that "it came to pass." That's actually one of my favorite promises in the Bible. It's kind of like my life preserver when times are tough. No trouble or difficulty stays forever. Life moves on; things change. Eventually it all comes to pass. (Feel free to use that floatie any time you'd like.)
Time to get moving and see what today holds. One thing is for sure, I have a ninety per cent chance that it will be better than yesterday! Smile.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Sunrise, Sunset
I absolutely LOVE sunrises and sunsets! (Someday I'll own a Thomas Kincade painting because as "the painter of light" he develops those the best of anyone I've ever seen.)
Frank and I were on our way to a board meeting last night and at 6:20, the sky here in Winter Haven literally exploded with color! It was absolutely incredible. Huge swaths of pink, salmon, purple, blue peeking through, swirls of white. It was truly phenomenal.
I had to stop on the sidewalk and stand for a moment just drinking it in. (Frank is a gracious man. He stood with me while I had my "moment" lest I get distracted and fall off the curb.)
I've been fascinated by the fabulous colors of evenings and early mornings since I was a little girl. North FL is very flat; you can see the edge of forever from your front porch. So getting the full effect of an especially resplendent (there's my word again - smile) sunset was possible most evenings. I would often stand around until the very last bit of color faded away. It meant swatting mosquitoes and bearing the oppressive heat; but for my little girl heart, watching the sky do its magic was well worth the price.
When we lived in the mountains of NC there was only one tiny spot in our house from which sunsets could be seen. Our little home sat at an odd angle and there was a window on the door leading out of our kitchen that afforded a view of the evening painting but only if you held your head just right. And it seemed that the colors were most vibrant in the winter there.
On many cold winter nights, I would excitedly call the girls to our kitchen where I would proceed to hold them up one by one to catch a glimpse of beauty before it could fade away. They, just like their dad, would indulge me with comments like "Uh huh. That's pretty, Mommy." And occasionally I would even get a "Wow!" But I don't know if I fully communicated exactly why this is such a fascination for me.
You see, I think of sunrises and sunsets as a "kiss" from heaven. It's like that little peck you give your spouse just before you leave or the quick "hi-honey-I'm-home" kiss. Serious smooching is reserved for other times but quick kisses serve the purpose of saying, "I really do think of you all the time and this is just to remind you of that fact."
And so it is with the colors of early morning and late evening. They are visible for us only briefly but they are incredibly powerful in their intensity. I drink them in and they refresh my soul because for me they are God's intentional attempt to say, "I'm thinking of you all the time; just wanted to remind you of that!" Whew, what a kiss for all the world.
It reminds me of the scripture that says, "The heavens declare your wonder!"
This evening, if it isn't cloudy where you live, step outside for a moment and enjoy a kiss from heaven. He really is thinking of us all the time! Wow!
Frank and I were on our way to a board meeting last night and at 6:20, the sky here in Winter Haven literally exploded with color! It was absolutely incredible. Huge swaths of pink, salmon, purple, blue peeking through, swirls of white. It was truly phenomenal.
I had to stop on the sidewalk and stand for a moment just drinking it in. (Frank is a gracious man. He stood with me while I had my "moment" lest I get distracted and fall off the curb.)
I've been fascinated by the fabulous colors of evenings and early mornings since I was a little girl. North FL is very flat; you can see the edge of forever from your front porch. So getting the full effect of an especially resplendent (there's my word again - smile) sunset was possible most evenings. I would often stand around until the very last bit of color faded away. It meant swatting mosquitoes and bearing the oppressive heat; but for my little girl heart, watching the sky do its magic was well worth the price.
When we lived in the mountains of NC there was only one tiny spot in our house from which sunsets could be seen. Our little home sat at an odd angle and there was a window on the door leading out of our kitchen that afforded a view of the evening painting but only if you held your head just right. And it seemed that the colors were most vibrant in the winter there.
On many cold winter nights, I would excitedly call the girls to our kitchen where I would proceed to hold them up one by one to catch a glimpse of beauty before it could fade away. They, just like their dad, would indulge me with comments like "Uh huh. That's pretty, Mommy." And occasionally I would even get a "Wow!" But I don't know if I fully communicated exactly why this is such a fascination for me.
You see, I think of sunrises and sunsets as a "kiss" from heaven. It's like that little peck you give your spouse just before you leave or the quick "hi-honey-I'm-home" kiss. Serious smooching is reserved for other times but quick kisses serve the purpose of saying, "I really do think of you all the time and this is just to remind you of that fact."
And so it is with the colors of early morning and late evening. They are visible for us only briefly but they are incredibly powerful in their intensity. I drink them in and they refresh my soul because for me they are God's intentional attempt to say, "I'm thinking of you all the time; just wanted to remind you of that!" Whew, what a kiss for all the world.
It reminds me of the scripture that says, "The heavens declare your wonder!"
This evening, if it isn't cloudy where you live, step outside for a moment and enjoy a kiss from heaven. He really is thinking of us all the time! Wow!
Monday, March 8, 2010
Hooray for Hollywood! Really?
I suppose that one of the purposes of blogging is to be brave enough to reveal things about ourselves that hopefully others can identify with and thereby form bonds with individuals we haven't met or rarely ever get to see. (Wouldn't it be easier to just pick up the phone? Smile.)
No, because then you could never communicate with anyone under the age of thirty. Their most serious conversations take place via text messaging. I live around people who are able to look me in the eye, listening attentively to every word I'm saying AND text message someone else about an entirely different topic without ever looking down at their phone or failing to respond coherently at the appropriate moment in OUR conversation.
NOW THAT'S TALENT!
If you ever receive a text message from my phone that is longer than three words, know that I love you immensely because I do NOT love your preferred form of communication. My texting skills are so limited that it can take up to ten minutes for me to find the appropriate keys, accidentally erase them, start over, hit send, scan the "sent message" with a feeling of panic because it's already sent; if I misspelled something and see it now, it's too late for corrections. And for all that effort, what message will I have managed to launch out into cyberspace?
"Thats fine see u soon!"
(Please note my very cool usage of "u" instead of the much longer "you". UmHmm! I thought you'd be impressed. Unfortunately, I have yet to locate the punctuation keys. So I tend to spend long moments contemplating how to say what I want in the shortest possible way avoiding all punctuation except: . ! ? Sigh.)
So, back to the opening of this post - revealing things about ourselves.
This morning I feel it important to confess that I have a few guilty pleasures and one of them is watching the Oscars Awards Ceremony. Whew, that's a big card I just handed to you, hold it carefully. (Borrowed that phrase from a friend. Rather descriptive, don't you think?)
Yes, of course, I keep the remote control handy in case of commentary that starts getting inappropriate or clothing that embarrasses me. (Did y0u see the dress Mariah Carey was "wearing"?) But I do watch at least some of the show almost every year.
My mom loved movie stars and movies; although she never attended any as an adult. She could name every star from her growing up years and regale you with stories about their marriages, children and starring roles. I started out watching the Oscars with her. Sweet memory!
Then several years ago, I saw a commentary which went behind the scenes and revealed exactly what has to happen to all those beautiful women on the red carpet in order for them to stand there looking so exquisite. Let me tell you, after learning about all the preparatory rituals and all the horrid items of tortuous foundational clothing those women must endure I came away with a whole new appreciation for the poor dears.
We use duct tape and chicken wire for entirely different reasons here in the South!
Their pained expression is NOT because they are irritated with the reporter interviewing them. It's because they can hardly breathe, their feet are already screaming, portions of their anatomy are contorted and pinched in ways we would think impossible. And they know that they must spend the next five hours of their lives in this condition while continually smiling lest the camera catch them unawares. Whew!
Makes me thankful that my worst constrictions result from industrial-strength, control top panty-hose which I utilize sparingly. How about you?!
Anyway, as I watched for a while last night, I caught myself wondering about the real people behind the beautiful faces. Were they proud, nervous, lonely, fearful, envious, empty? Because the reality is, they all will wake up at some point today. The make-up artists will be gone. There won't be any designers clamoring for their attention. The cameras will be pointed in a different direction. All the reporters will be busy with a new assignment.
It's just the star and their mirror.
And in that moment, they become just like you and me. People wondering who we really are. People with real relationships that need to be nurtured and no make-up in the world that can remove the flaws of a damaged one. People with hopes, dreams, sorrows and disappointments all rolled together to form a life.
We are all just people reaching for the very same things: family, health, security, a place to belong. Hmmmmm, reminds me why we work so hard at making sure everyone knows about the love Jesus offers. That is REAL help; and no camouflage required in that relationship.
C u soon -
Sheri
No, because then you could never communicate with anyone under the age of thirty. Their most serious conversations take place via text messaging. I live around people who are able to look me in the eye, listening attentively to every word I'm saying AND text message someone else about an entirely different topic without ever looking down at their phone or failing to respond coherently at the appropriate moment in OUR conversation.
NOW THAT'S TALENT!
If you ever receive a text message from my phone that is longer than three words, know that I love you immensely because I do NOT love your preferred form of communication. My texting skills are so limited that it can take up to ten minutes for me to find the appropriate keys, accidentally erase them, start over, hit send, scan the "sent message" with a feeling of panic because it's already sent; if I misspelled something and see it now, it's too late for corrections. And for all that effort, what message will I have managed to launch out into cyberspace?
"Thats fine see u soon!"
(Please note my very cool usage of "u" instead of the much longer "you". UmHmm! I thought you'd be impressed. Unfortunately, I have yet to locate the punctuation keys. So I tend to spend long moments contemplating how to say what I want in the shortest possible way avoiding all punctuation except: . ! ? Sigh.)
So, back to the opening of this post - revealing things about ourselves.
This morning I feel it important to confess that I have a few guilty pleasures and one of them is watching the Oscars Awards Ceremony. Whew, that's a big card I just handed to you, hold it carefully. (Borrowed that phrase from a friend. Rather descriptive, don't you think?)
Yes, of course, I keep the remote control handy in case of commentary that starts getting inappropriate or clothing that embarrasses me. (Did y0u see the dress Mariah Carey was "wearing"?) But I do watch at least some of the show almost every year.
My mom loved movie stars and movies; although she never attended any as an adult. She could name every star from her growing up years and regale you with stories about their marriages, children and starring roles. I started out watching the Oscars with her. Sweet memory!
Then several years ago, I saw a commentary which went behind the scenes and revealed exactly what has to happen to all those beautiful women on the red carpet in order for them to stand there looking so exquisite. Let me tell you, after learning about all the preparatory rituals and all the horrid items of tortuous foundational clothing those women must endure I came away with a whole new appreciation for the poor dears.
We use duct tape and chicken wire for entirely different reasons here in the South!
Their pained expression is NOT because they are irritated with the reporter interviewing them. It's because they can hardly breathe, their feet are already screaming, portions of their anatomy are contorted and pinched in ways we would think impossible. And they know that they must spend the next five hours of their lives in this condition while continually smiling lest the camera catch them unawares. Whew!
Makes me thankful that my worst constrictions result from industrial-strength, control top panty-hose which I utilize sparingly. How about you?!
Anyway, as I watched for a while last night, I caught myself wondering about the real people behind the beautiful faces. Were they proud, nervous, lonely, fearful, envious, empty? Because the reality is, they all will wake up at some point today. The make-up artists will be gone. There won't be any designers clamoring for their attention. The cameras will be pointed in a different direction. All the reporters will be busy with a new assignment.
It's just the star and their mirror.
And in that moment, they become just like you and me. People wondering who we really are. People with real relationships that need to be nurtured and no make-up in the world that can remove the flaws of a damaged one. People with hopes, dreams, sorrows and disappointments all rolled together to form a life.
We are all just people reaching for the very same things: family, health, security, a place to belong. Hmmmmm, reminds me why we work so hard at making sure everyone knows about the love Jesus offers. That is REAL help; and no camouflage required in that relationship.
C u soon -
Sheri
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Simple Thought
I don't have a full-length post to share this morning. But I came across this wonderful scripture earlier that gave me encouragement with its simplicity.
Proverbs 10:28a. "The prospect of the righteous is joy."
Actually, it gave me so much to ponder that I thought I would just pass it on to you - in case you need a simple and encouraging ponder point today for yourself.
That's all - hope your day is blessed!
Proverbs 10:28a. "The prospect of the righteous is joy."
Actually, it gave me so much to ponder that I thought I would just pass it on to you - in case you need a simple and encouraging ponder point today for yourself.
That's all - hope your day is blessed!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Teamwork - the Best Work
Thanks to each of you who takes time to read this! As I'm starting to get feed-back it is really encouraging and I have to discipline myself to avoid being on here all the time. Getting to write is the reward now for getting my work done. It's like I see the young moms who say "That's exactly how I felt." or "Thanks, I'm starting a tradition at our house too." And others who let me know that a central thought - "stayed with me all day long." (I didn't really know the appropriate punctuation for that sentence. But I feel sure that Mr. Calbert, my high school English teacher, does NOT read this blog so I'm okay.)
Anyway, thanks for taking time to read and to let me know what encourages you!
You remember all that deliciously leisurely Friday morning stuff I wrote about last week? Well, this week......not so much!!
Later this month, we will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of Garden Grove Church. And while we've really endeavored to scale back our celebration plans (we opted to drop the fireworks display and skydiving exhibition packages) there is still much to be done.
Frank boldly contacted the national office of the Assemblies of God and invited Dr. George Wood our General Superintendent ( that would be the "head honcho" for those of you unfamiliar with the A/G) to our guest for the week-end.
Now, this man receives literally hundreds of invitations to preach every single week because he is an outstanding leader and a tremendous preacher. We knew the chances of him coming were slim. But Frank figured hey, we're offering him an excuse to come to sunny Florida in March while snow is billowing, freezing wind is whipping and fingertips are falling off in central Missouri.
Unfortunately, he was already scheduled. BUT our national treasurer, Rev. Doug Clay who is ALSO a phenomenal preacher IS coming! WONDERFUL! (Okay, that's enough on the capital letters for a while. If you will read those with extra emphasis, you will hear my little southern self and my genuine excitement.)
So, all that extra information brings me to the crux of today's article. We've been meeting and planning and scrambling and trying to get things ready since last October in order to avoid all out panic when the time for celebration actually arrives. Great plan - not really happening!
You know how it is, no matter how well you plan; no matter how many to-do lists you meticulously prepare and joyfully check off; no matter how many times you say, "in order to avoid any rush"......when it actually comes time to execute the event - THERE IS MAYHEM!!!!!!!
(Yes, I know I said no more caps but this is an all caps morning. My sister used to regularly tell me, "Sheri, your life gives me heartburn!" Hmmmm.)
Enter - the blessing of team!
Now, Frank and I work with amazing teams of people. Our ministry team is young (because we really need their energy, ideas and enthusiasm.) Amanda, John and Joy, Kristin - they are all extremely hard workers who more than carry their weight. And are worth more than their weight in gold to us and to our church. (No, pastor friends. You may NOT offer them a job at your church!)
Our leadership team is wise. Three of the four families on that team are actually charter members of GGC and we have found them to be reliable and trustworthy in every way. They too are hard workers and right there at every turn.
Yesterday was a prime example of how this crew functions. Everyone was running in high gear. Amanda was creating a new brochure, covering the office, finishing her sermon for Harbour. John was installing new machinery, recording giving statements, unfreezing my frozen computer. Joy was using free moments at work to follow-up on students. Frank was working on his sermon, taking calls, raising money for a special surprise related to the anniversary.
We needed back-up.
Ed showed up to install windows with blinds in our baby nursery. Meagan came in to answer phones and prepare service orders. Kristin met Bill at the paint store to purchase paint for updating the toddler room. (Bill couldn't leave that to an amateur so he came over to help for "just a few minutes" which turned into a couple of hours.) Christy, who we didn't even know liked to paint, showed up just in time to outline our mural. Leigh flew in from work and started creating her magic.
And where was Sheri in the midst of all this excitement you may ask? It felt like I should be in the corner rocking back and forth pulling on my right eyebrow. (Actually, Amanda caught me one day this week pulling on both eyebrows at the same time. Whew!)
Needless to say, I was once again being reminded of the blessing of team!
None of us does well functioning as the "Lone Ranger". We weren't created to journey alone. When I try to do things on my own, I end up exhausted and frustrated (which is really just a polite way to say MAD). And for many years, I tried to just carry on; get the job done; focus on the task at hand; suffer in silence.
The problem here is that very few of us ever "suffer in silence". Can I get an amen on that?!
If we will allow them, there are good people all around us who want to help. Caution: they will not do it the exact way you would! (Boy, there's an entire track to follow with that, isn't there?)
But be brave enough to back up and let them help. You will probably be surprised by the great ideas they bring to the table.
(To the young mom readers I confess. Accepting help was especially difficult for me when the girls were little because I already felt so inadequate for the task of rearing productive, emotionally healthy human beings. Take the help! Your husband and your children will thank you. Smile.)
And besides, there is special blessing to be found in working as a team. Mom used to say, "Sorrow divided! Joy multiplied!"
If you can get away, come on down and join us that week-end. You can walk around and say with us, "Look what a team can do!" Gotta run - hope your day is blessed.
Anyway, thanks for taking time to read and to let me know what encourages you!
You remember all that deliciously leisurely Friday morning stuff I wrote about last week? Well, this week......not so much!!
Later this month, we will be celebrating the 25th anniversary of Garden Grove Church. And while we've really endeavored to scale back our celebration plans (we opted to drop the fireworks display and skydiving exhibition packages) there is still much to be done.
Frank boldly contacted the national office of the Assemblies of God and invited Dr. George Wood our General Superintendent ( that would be the "head honcho" for those of you unfamiliar with the A/G) to our guest for the week-end.
Now, this man receives literally hundreds of invitations to preach every single week because he is an outstanding leader and a tremendous preacher. We knew the chances of him coming were slim. But Frank figured hey, we're offering him an excuse to come to sunny Florida in March while snow is billowing, freezing wind is whipping and fingertips are falling off in central Missouri.
Unfortunately, he was already scheduled. BUT our national treasurer, Rev. Doug Clay who is ALSO a phenomenal preacher IS coming! WONDERFUL! (Okay, that's enough on the capital letters for a while. If you will read those with extra emphasis, you will hear my little southern self and my genuine excitement.)
So, all that extra information brings me to the crux of today's article. We've been meeting and planning and scrambling and trying to get things ready since last October in order to avoid all out panic when the time for celebration actually arrives. Great plan - not really happening!
You know how it is, no matter how well you plan; no matter how many to-do lists you meticulously prepare and joyfully check off; no matter how many times you say, "in order to avoid any rush"......when it actually comes time to execute the event - THERE IS MAYHEM!!!!!!!
(Yes, I know I said no more caps but this is an all caps morning. My sister used to regularly tell me, "Sheri, your life gives me heartburn!" Hmmmm.)
Enter - the blessing of team!
Now, Frank and I work with amazing teams of people. Our ministry team is young (because we really need their energy, ideas and enthusiasm.) Amanda, John and Joy, Kristin - they are all extremely hard workers who more than carry their weight. And are worth more than their weight in gold to us and to our church. (No, pastor friends. You may NOT offer them a job at your church!)
Our leadership team is wise. Three of the four families on that team are actually charter members of GGC and we have found them to be reliable and trustworthy in every way. They too are hard workers and right there at every turn.
Yesterday was a prime example of how this crew functions. Everyone was running in high gear. Amanda was creating a new brochure, covering the office, finishing her sermon for Harbour. John was installing new machinery, recording giving statements, unfreezing my frozen computer. Joy was using free moments at work to follow-up on students. Frank was working on his sermon, taking calls, raising money for a special surprise related to the anniversary.
We needed back-up.
Ed showed up to install windows with blinds in our baby nursery. Meagan came in to answer phones and prepare service orders. Kristin met Bill at the paint store to purchase paint for updating the toddler room. (Bill couldn't leave that to an amateur so he came over to help for "just a few minutes" which turned into a couple of hours.) Christy, who we didn't even know liked to paint, showed up just in time to outline our mural. Leigh flew in from work and started creating her magic.
And where was Sheri in the midst of all this excitement you may ask? It felt like I should be in the corner rocking back and forth pulling on my right eyebrow. (Actually, Amanda caught me one day this week pulling on both eyebrows at the same time. Whew!)
Needless to say, I was once again being reminded of the blessing of team!
None of us does well functioning as the "Lone Ranger". We weren't created to journey alone. When I try to do things on my own, I end up exhausted and frustrated (which is really just a polite way to say MAD). And for many years, I tried to just carry on; get the job done; focus on the task at hand; suffer in silence.
The problem here is that very few of us ever "suffer in silence". Can I get an amen on that?!
If we will allow them, there are good people all around us who want to help. Caution: they will not do it the exact way you would! (Boy, there's an entire track to follow with that, isn't there?)
But be brave enough to back up and let them help. You will probably be surprised by the great ideas they bring to the table.
(To the young mom readers I confess. Accepting help was especially difficult for me when the girls were little because I already felt so inadequate for the task of rearing productive, emotionally healthy human beings. Take the help! Your husband and your children will thank you. Smile.)
And besides, there is special blessing to be found in working as a team. Mom used to say, "Sorrow divided! Joy multiplied!"
If you can get away, come on down and join us that week-end. You can walk around and say with us, "Look what a team can do!" Gotta run - hope your day is blessed.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
The Power of Paper Plates
When I woke up rather early this morning, I was excited about being able to write this post for you all. (Actually, while I certainly HOPE this blog benefits you dear readers it is serving as a very real outlet for me right now. Communicating for the purpose of encouraging is one of my passions. And this spring instead of my usual travels, I've needed to focus on projects at church and home - twenty-fifth anniversary; nursery renovation; fifth annual spring tea; major surgeries for two daughters; etc. Enter internet! So, thanks for reading.)
One of my earlier posts was about the "trauma" of dining alone. (One friend responded by saying that dining alone was really a treat for her; don't you love being part of the diverse body of Christ? There is an entire, wonderful train of thought on this topic that threatens to derail me this very moment but I must resist and stay focused!! LOL)
ANYWAY.......
So, last night we were able to have one of our routine, not-so-special, nothing-out-of- the-ordinary, average, run-of-the-mill family dinners. Which I really consider: ABSOLUTELY RESPLENDENT! (Yes, I am aware that "resplendent" isn't the most appropriate adjective to use here; but it happens to be one of my favorite words and I regularly look for opportunities to use it even if in less than optimal moments like now. Smile.) Back to the dinner.
You must understand that while I was growing up, my mom unintentionally wove a tradition deep into the fabric of my life. Until I was twelve year old, my dad worked at Monsanto, a factory in Pensacola. He worked the day shift and came home every afternoon at 4:30. Because we usually had some activity to attend at church that night and because my dad was a hard worker who was also very skinny, dinner needed to be on the table when he walked in the door.
The menu varied but in some form most always consisted of: one meat, two vegetables, a starch and some type of home made bread. "Loaf" bread (you know, Sunbeam or Wonderbread) was not considered "bread" at our table. Thank heavens Frank doesn't feel that way! Even after Dad and Mom went into full time pastoral ministry, we ate dinner all together almost every evening.
Fast forward several years to 1979 when Frank and I began sharing our evening meal as husband and wife. Sometimes it was with friends but most often just he and I, forming our own little family tradition. A high chair was added, then a booster seat and a high chair, then two boosters and a high chair.
By this time, my young husband was very focused on his work and ministry. Breaking away in the evenings to come home and eat dinner took real effort. And finally we discovered that if we didn't make it a priority, it wouldn't happen at all. So, we prayed over the matter (because it was so very important to me) and came to some more reasonable expectations.
Very often, I would give him a quick call about twenty minutes before the food was ready to serve. He would dash home, slide into his seat at the head of the table, ask grace, begin to eat and attentively listen to four women offer random comments on their days (which often meant trying to decipher baby-jabber because no woman wants to be left out of the conversation!) Thirty minutes later he would "reseat" whoever had climbed into his lap (on especially tough days that was ME), give everyone a quick kiss bye, and hurry back to the office.
The meal itself was irrelevant. The time was extremely short. The point was that we made an effort to CONNECT each day.
Fast forward another thirty years. Our lives are totally different now and one would expect that meals together as a family of six adults (yes, we've added a wonderful son-in-law) would only take place Christmas, Easter and Fourth of July. But apparently at some point during those hurried moments of less than memorable menu selections, a thread from the "family dinner" spool caught in the loom which was weaving the tapestry of our daughters' lives. And family dinner has became important to them as well.
As crazy as our schedules are, they asked that everyone make an effort to reserve Monday nights as often as possible, for coming together and connecting. It is indeed RESPLENDENT!
Smile.
Last night was the first time in a while that we were all able to be together. But each one came without guilt, The meal itself was mediocre at best (my roast was entirely too dry and we had to settle for canned corn instead of fresh or frozen). But there were copious amounts of conversation, we drank deeply of one another's company, laughter added an incredible fragrance and a little teasing was just the seasoning we needed to complete a true feast.
I've had the pleasure of dining in some fabulous restaurants, in foreign countries, even with a few dignitaries. But those opportunities pale in comparison to sitting at my own table surrounded by the true treasure of my life, eating pizza off of paper plates and drinking sweet tea from plastic cups.
I'm so thankful that we made the choice years ago to assign value to the task of connecting on a regular basis as a family. And if the opportunity is yours, I encourage you to do the same.
Don't worry about the menu, the location, the time, or even the color palette. I absolve you from all guilt on those matters. (Can I do that as a protestant pastor's wife?) Just focus on consistent connection- once a day, once a week, once a month; whenever it's possible for you. Everything else will fall into place. And you too will begin to weave a beautiful family "tradition" that will probably look different from that of everyone else. But it will eventually have great significance.
Haven't you seen the label on some clothes, "The variations in the pattern of this fabric are simply indications of the care given to produce a one of a kind garment and in no way should be considered a flaw." (Gotta love advertisers!)
Savor the moment - Bon Appetite!
One of my earlier posts was about the "trauma" of dining alone. (One friend responded by saying that dining alone was really a treat for her; don't you love being part of the diverse body of Christ? There is an entire, wonderful train of thought on this topic that threatens to derail me this very moment but I must resist and stay focused!! LOL)
ANYWAY.......
So, last night we were able to have one of our routine, not-so-special, nothing-out-of- the-ordinary, average, run-of-the-mill family dinners. Which I really consider: ABSOLUTELY RESPLENDENT! (Yes, I am aware that "resplendent" isn't the most appropriate adjective to use here; but it happens to be one of my favorite words and I regularly look for opportunities to use it even if in less than optimal moments like now. Smile.) Back to the dinner.
You must understand that while I was growing up, my mom unintentionally wove a tradition deep into the fabric of my life. Until I was twelve year old, my dad worked at Monsanto, a factory in Pensacola. He worked the day shift and came home every afternoon at 4:30. Because we usually had some activity to attend at church that night and because my dad was a hard worker who was also very skinny, dinner needed to be on the table when he walked in the door.
The menu varied but in some form most always consisted of: one meat, two vegetables, a starch and some type of home made bread. "Loaf" bread (you know, Sunbeam or Wonderbread) was not considered "bread" at our table. Thank heavens Frank doesn't feel that way! Even after Dad and Mom went into full time pastoral ministry, we ate dinner all together almost every evening.
Fast forward several years to 1979 when Frank and I began sharing our evening meal as husband and wife. Sometimes it was with friends but most often just he and I, forming our own little family tradition. A high chair was added, then a booster seat and a high chair, then two boosters and a high chair.
By this time, my young husband was very focused on his work and ministry. Breaking away in the evenings to come home and eat dinner took real effort. And finally we discovered that if we didn't make it a priority, it wouldn't happen at all. So, we prayed over the matter (because it was so very important to me) and came to some more reasonable expectations.
Very often, I would give him a quick call about twenty minutes before the food was ready to serve. He would dash home, slide into his seat at the head of the table, ask grace, begin to eat and attentively listen to four women offer random comments on their days (which often meant trying to decipher baby-jabber because no woman wants to be left out of the conversation!) Thirty minutes later he would "reseat" whoever had climbed into his lap (on especially tough days that was ME), give everyone a quick kiss bye, and hurry back to the office.
The meal itself was irrelevant. The time was extremely short. The point was that we made an effort to CONNECT each day.
Fast forward another thirty years. Our lives are totally different now and one would expect that meals together as a family of six adults (yes, we've added a wonderful son-in-law) would only take place Christmas, Easter and Fourth of July. But apparently at some point during those hurried moments of less than memorable menu selections, a thread from the "family dinner" spool caught in the loom which was weaving the tapestry of our daughters' lives. And family dinner has became important to them as well.
As crazy as our schedules are, they asked that everyone make an effort to reserve Monday nights as often as possible, for coming together and connecting. It is indeed RESPLENDENT!
Smile.
Last night was the first time in a while that we were all able to be together. But each one came without guilt, The meal itself was mediocre at best (my roast was entirely too dry and we had to settle for canned corn instead of fresh or frozen). But there were copious amounts of conversation, we drank deeply of one another's company, laughter added an incredible fragrance and a little teasing was just the seasoning we needed to complete a true feast.
I've had the pleasure of dining in some fabulous restaurants, in foreign countries, even with a few dignitaries. But those opportunities pale in comparison to sitting at my own table surrounded by the true treasure of my life, eating pizza off of paper plates and drinking sweet tea from plastic cups.
I'm so thankful that we made the choice years ago to assign value to the task of connecting on a regular basis as a family. And if the opportunity is yours, I encourage you to do the same.
Don't worry about the menu, the location, the time, or even the color palette. I absolve you from all guilt on those matters. (Can I do that as a protestant pastor's wife?) Just focus on consistent connection- once a day, once a week, once a month; whenever it's possible for you. Everything else will fall into place. And you too will begin to weave a beautiful family "tradition" that will probably look different from that of everyone else. But it will eventually have great significance.
Haven't you seen the label on some clothes, "The variations in the pattern of this fabric are simply indications of the care given to produce a one of a kind garment and in no way should be considered a flaw." (Gotta love advertisers!)
Savor the moment - Bon Appetite!
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