Rainy Day

It has been raining ALL DAY LONG. I love it. We are actually about to head out in it for the evening. We are just going to a couple of stores. But, it will be a time for us to all hang out. We're thinking about going to Costco just to run around and see what kind of free samples they have. Then, we'll grab a corn dog. The kids actually planned the evening. Anything involving the word "free" has me on board. So, Costco it is. I wonder if they will be giving away free corn dogs. That would make the night PERFECT!

Video Report From Chicago

Originally, we had planned just to post this video at Rob's blog, so there is a reference about reading the blog below this one. But, then I thought that my readers might not go over to his goofy little blog, nor would it be fair to subject you to that ridiculous site. (I jest...) So, check it out below. It really does capture our candid personalities.

The Chicago Experience

I am a huge baseball fan. I love everything about the sport. I even love the way the word baseball sounds when it rolls of the tongue. "Basssssse-baaaalllll." I love going to games live, as well as watching on television. I am a big Atlanta Braves fan. But, more so, a fan of the game. One of my goals is to see a live game at every MLB park in America. I have a LONG way to go. As one of the most historic parks in major league baseball, Wrigley Field has long been a park that I've wanted to visit. Today, that dream was realized. However, I won't see an actual game there until we return in July. At that time, I will get to share that experience with our students.

This is now one of my favorite pictures of me:

New Chicago Video Blog

Chicago Video Report

Impending Danger

All of the signs around Chicago keep warning us that we may die. I'm beginning to get concerned. I wonder what they would suggest I do if I look up and ice is actually falling?! Scary.

We finally made it to the hotel at 1:09 am local time in Chicago. We are trying to walk the trip as if we had the choir with us. So, basically our means of transportation is the Metro System. So, we rode into town, but then had to walk about 5 blocks to the hotel...in the snow...dragging my suitcase. But, all is good. We are in a room and are doing well.

I've been trying to get in touch with our ministry partners this morning. They know we're here. They know we're supposed to meet. Why are they not returning my phone calls?

Pray we get this lined up soon. If we are unable to touch base before lunch, we are going to visit some of the spots that we are planning on taking the group for performances in hopes of setting those up. I'll check back in soon and give you an update. You can also check out updates HERE .

I'm In Chicago

I've never been here before. I'm really excited to be in "the windy city". I've always wanted to visit. Now, I'm actually here. Rob Signs (our High School Pastor) and I are on a "pre-trip". Our purpose: to set up the Student Worship Choir Tour by meeting with ministry partners, touring the areas we'll be performing, etc. Actually, our purpose is to get away and hang out in really cool locations. Then, do it again with the students. Yeah. That's probably a more accurate description.

So, we booked the cheapest hotel we could find and we got free wifi, 2 breakfasts, and 2 free dinners along with it. Pretty sweet. It is snowing outside as I type this, and I can't wait to walk around the city tomorrow and meet with our ministry partners. We are waiting on some food we just ordered. It is 2am in Chicago and we are ordering take-out. The reason is our flight was delayed due to the snow and we haven't eaten since lunch. So, we're going to eat. That Reuben sandwich can't get here fast enough. They are delivering.

I'll post some pics and more updates often while we're here. Check back!

Doctor Doctor

Well, I finally broke down and am at the Doctor's office this morning. I hate upper respiratory stuff. Actually, I just hate being sick. But, don't we all?

Pray that this is nothing serious. They usually just tell me its a virus and I have to let it run its course. So, I let this thing run its course over the past 3 weeks. I think I've given it enough time to take over my body. I feel like I'm trying to breathe under water.

Immanuel Worship

I can't wait for tomorrow. It is Sunday and I love worshiping with our people at Immanuel. I had a guy come in my office this week to meet with me. He told me that his life had been a waste up to this point. He said that he had sensed God calling him to Himself. He said "I need redemption and I know the only way is through Jesus. I need His forgiveness and salvation. What do I do?"

Well, that was an easy one. So, I walked him through some scripture that answered that question. He went on to say that the choir and the music had convicted and encouraged him during the services he had attended at Immanuel. That is what it's all about! Bringing glory to God through our worship and allowing Him to work through that in people's lives. Amazing!

Goodbye Frances

It is rare that you find someone who exhibits all the traits of a great leader. Someone who is passionate about what they do. Someone who is dedicated. Someone who is steadfast. Someone who is a team player. Someone who is supportive and submissive to authority. Someone who is not afraid to try something new. Someone who is willing to push the envelope. Someone who supports you in success, as well as in failure. Someone who works diligently to make themselves better. Someone who is faithful.

This list could go on and on, and every aspect of it describes someone that I have had the privilege to serve alongside during my time at Immanuel. However, she has come to a place in her ministry where she feels that the time has come to retire. Frances Iverson has been the organist at Immanuel for 33 years. 33 years! When Frances first began in this position in October, 1976, I was celebrating my 2nd birthday. That really puts it into perspective for me. She has given her life for the sake of the call at Immanuel.

Thank you Frances, for exemplifying what it means to be faithful in ministry. I only hope to have the impact in my ministry that you have had in yours.