Giggles

I've been here less than 12 hours.  I've been looking forward to my visit since I started planning it.  I was anxious for some time to relax, time to catch up with my cousin, and time to catch up with the rest of my family, along with spending time in a place I love.  For some reason, I wasn't expecting one thing.  My cousin's boys, who I know are adorable, have already brought me so much joy!  Hearing their giggles, hearing the silly "kid jokes", and watching them play together has made today even better. 
They were young the last time I visited and I'm guessing they don't really remember me.  But, after a little shyness, they have accepted me being here.  The youngest was very happy to be letting me borrow his room for a few days.  He's at a stage when he wants nothing more than to make everyone smile and laugh.  The older one was about at that stage the last time I remember him. So, I'm amazed at how he's grown up.
I am so blessed to have an amazing son who has recently turned 18.  But, seeing these boys reminds me of when my own was little. 
Two weeks ago, I got to see my nieces and nephew.  They are all growing up so fast, too and going through new stages in life.  My niece will be starting middle school!  When they come to visit they are so excited to be at my house and so excited to do whatever we're doing. 
All of these young ones in all different stages have so much to teach us.  We should look at their examples as something to follow and spread to others.  We should laugh and be silly sometimes and encourage others to laugh and be silly with us.  We should spend time just playing with our friends.  We should be accepting of new people and share with them.  We should be excited and happy to be wherever we are no matter what we're doing. 
I love working with and spending time with young people because I get reminders of this often.
So, where was God today?  He was in the laughs, the smiles, the giggles, and the pure happiness of young ones.
Mark 10:15

The Message (MSG)

^13-16The people brought children to Jesus, hoping he might touch them. The disciples shooed them off. But Jesus was irate and let them know it: "Don't push these children away. Don't ever get between them and me. These children are at the very center of life in the kingdom. Mark this: Unless you accept God's kingdom in the simplicity of a child, you'll never get in." Then, gathering the children up in his arms, he laid his hands of blessing on them.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Train

I just got on the train.  Tomorrow I’ll be visiting family in New York.  It’s been a long time since I’ve been able to take a mini vacation.  So, I’m pretty excited!  Usually, if I’m off from one job, it’s to go somewhere for my other job.   But, this trip has seemed to all come together perfectly.  It happens to be a time when I’m not needed at one job and am normally not working the other job.  It also happens to be one of the few weeks of the year that I get an “extra” check due to the way I budget.  And, the train ticket was cheaper than driving so I don’t have to worry about driving or my car not making it. 

So, tonight I feel very blessed.  I am looking forward to a few days of getting refreshed, spending time with some people I love, and having some time to just be. 

So, where was God in all of this?  I think He knew I was ready for a vacation and this is His gift to me.

Blessings,

Jennifer

Memorial Day

Yesterday was a holiday.  It was my first summer holiday in years that wasn't filled with running around, stress, and lots of food.  Not food to eat, food to sell.  So, this past weekend reminded me how much different my life is now and how much I love my new life.  I got to spend time with family and friends this weekend without always worrying in the back of my mind about what was going on at the stores. 
Another difference yesterday was the absence of my cell phone.  There was a tower down that caused phone service to be down all day.  Others in town had no Internet and some stores and restaurants had no credit card capability.  At first I was really annoyed.  But, throughout the day, it made me look at how much we all depend on our cell phones.  And, maybe it wouldn't kill me to become a little less dependant on it.  Maybe I need to take a little more quiet time and unplug. 
Part of the tower issue caused 911 to be down.  That seemed pretty scary considering the heat and the holiday.  It was expected to be down until 9am today.  Fortunately, it was fixed earlier.  Oddly enough, I had to call 911 last night.  A fight was going on around our house and it was pretty loud.  So, I called and they were already on their way because someone else had already called.  So, I'm really glad the line was working. 
So, where was God?  He was there in random moments- giving me things to reflect on and be grateful for.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Sunday School

This morning at church, I got a text just after my service was over and the next one was starting.  The person who was going to teach Sunday school had to leave early for health reasons.  A lot of the kids go to the previous service so I checked and didn't see many kids in the service.  So, I thought things were fine with no class.  A few minutes later, the nursery worker came upstairs with several kids.  I realized they had all gone in there to wait for class to start.  So, I decided I better lead a class.  I took them into the church office, thinking it was by my office and a computer and hoping I'd come up with something as we walked in there. 
It was Pentecost Sunday so I thought we should talk about that.  I asked them a few questions and was happy they knew it was Pentecost.  But, then realized they really didn't know what that meant.  Ok- I had something to teach them.  I started talking to them and prompted my son to look up Pentecost on the computer.  A few minutes later, we had a script for a Pentecost play that had exactly the same number of parts as we had kids.  They excitedly began the play and when they were done, they wanted to do it again.  Afterwards, I asked them all to share something they learned during class.  Each had something to say.  In that short time, they had learned what Pentecost was and had fun doing it.  Before I knew it, the service was over and it was time for them to go.
So, where was God today?  I certainly didn't have a Sunday school plan so I'm really glad God did!
Blessings,
Jennifer

College Youth

The fire is still going outside.  Several are still gathered around it.  My day started at 9am with a group of volunteers ready to help someone load up a truck and move to another house to unload.  I had 6th graders to college youth to parents all working together to get the job done.  It took awhile to load it this morning.  But, it seemed like it only took about 15 minutes to unload it all.  Seeing such awesome teamwork from everyone was really cool.  It made the job much more enjoyable.
We got back to the church just in time for the big party!  I've been looking forward to this one for awhile.  And, I was not alone.  Although several had last minute obligations and couldn't make it at 1, they came as soon as they could.  We colored, played with play doh, blew bubbles, and basically did everything we remembered from kindergarten.  I wanted to surprise them so I asked a friend to come for storytime.  She read four stories and I loved watching my college youth sit there mesmerized by listening to children's stories!  I enjoyed it as much as they did.  I can't remember the last time I was read to! 
Later in the evening, we moved to my house for a bonfire, complete with hot dogs and s'mores.  This group of youth, my group when I first started, is now all moving on.  I have loved watching them grow and learn, and get closer.  They really don't care what they're doing as long as they are together.  And, the friendships they have formed is something I have been blessed to watch.  And, although I love all of my youth, there is something about my first group that I will always treasure.  I learned as much, if not more, from them as they learned from me.  They opened up to me and let me enter into their world, opening up doors for me for all of the youth since them.  Once they let me in, it's been easy for all of the future youth to just accept me as the leader since they are the new ones.  But, in the beginning of my journey, it was I who was breaking into their territory.  And, now, I'm watching as they are moving on but still connecting with home.  It's exciting to watch them continue on their journey and see what God has planned for them!  But, it's also fun to see that they still aren't ready to abandon their childhood just yet, that they sometimes cling to the innocence of youth, that they sometimes just want to be simple and happy together.
So, where was God today?  He was in the teamwork this morning that helped us get done just in time to enjoy this afternoon and evening.  He was in the simple joy of the day that gave us peace and happiness from the little things.  And, He was in the hearts of my college youth when they welcomed me in a few years ago and let me begin my journey in the amazing world of youth ministry!
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Flower

This afternoon was Fitness Friday.  Every Friday, the mayor and anyone who would like to join her, run, walk, or bike down a main street in town.  It's sponsored by the YMCA and the hospital.  They start right in front of the Teen Center.  Today, we went outside to fill water for them.  One of my regulars stopped by to find someone to walk with her to the beach.  At one point, she and another girl asked me to pretend I was someone's mom and say I was taking them.  Of course, I didn't and encouraged them to be honest about what they wanted to do.  They were.  And, in the end, the girl went on her own since the other one's dad didn't let her go.  During that time of "plotting", the one who eventually went asked me several times, and eventually told me loudly and only half jokingly that she hated me. 
Just before I closed up tonight, she came back.  I had put everything away since I had to get to the church for movie night as soon as I was done at the Teen Center.  She came in and told me all about her trip to the beach, and how she got lost but now knew how to get there and back.  She gave me a flower and told me she was sorry for what she said and that she really doesn't hate me.  I knew that.  I see so many of my teens do so many things, testing to see if I'll still be there for them.  She is one of them.  I invited her to movie night.  She thought about it but then decided she needed to get home.  I agreed that she probably did. 
So, where was God today?  He knew I needed to be there, knew that I needed to set limits but make sure I was still there.  And, He knew that one conversation with someone could make my day awesome!  Sometimes I don't know if I'm doing the right thing, saying the right thing, helping the way I need to.  Today, God told me I did ok.
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Reading

I got a couple of hours of reading time in this afternoon.  I've started reading an interesting book about a study done on teens and what they think of religion.  I haven't gotten very far but an anxious to keep reading.  The problem is that I'm not very good at stopping and taking time out to read- no matter how good the book is.  There is always something else I have to do, somewhere I have to go.  But, today, I was ding exactly that- doing what I had to do and going where I had to go.  For 2 hours, I was at a church signing people up for day camp.  Unfortunately, nobody was there for me to sign up.  Fortunately, I had brought my book along with me.  So, I actually had a chance to read and take time out for myself.  I was forced to do little else.
I also saw some people there I don't often see since they were going to something at that church.  My aunt and uncle came and I was really happy to see my uncle driving and to see that he was out and about like he had nothing wrong health- wise even though he's going through radiation. 
I was frustrated because I had to close the Teen Center early and I had a bunch of kids I had to send off early.  And, I knew I'd be late to pie night.  But, in the end, I'm guessing I just needed some time to just be.  And, I guess there's nothing wrong with that.
So, where was God today?  I think He was there to remind me that I don't always have to be rushing somewhere, that it doesn't kill me to slow down for 2 hours once in awhile.
Psalm 46:10

 (NIV)

He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”

Blessings,
Jennifer

Gathering

Last week I met with a  new youth leader in the area.  Through our conversation and our mutual enthusiasm to build collaboration between all of the youth leaders in town, we decided to get something started.  I posted on facebook and today was the first of what I hope will be many more gatherings of youthworkers in the area.  We're going to meet weekly and gather for a time of prayer.  Then, once a month we'll meet for a time of prayer followed by a time of sharing and planning for community youth events.  I am so excited to see where God will take this!
Today, I was fighting a migraine.  But, I decided to stay at work and stay for our first gathering.  As I expected, I left there feeling uplifted and blessed.  It's a wonderful feeling to be able to share and pray with people who are dealing with the same things, working in the same places, and meeting with the same groups. 
So, where was God today?  He was there listening to our prayers for our ministry, for our youth, and for the people we love.
Matthew 18:20
For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.”
Blessings,
Jennifer

Fire

After Pie Night in the summer, alot of times we end up back at our house sitting around a bonfire.  Tonight, some of the college ones wanted to come over.  So, they, along with one of the adults, came over.  We all sat around the fire chatting, putting sticks in the fire, and having a good time. 
Lately there are times that my son, being 18, has a difficult time being at home where there are still rules.  This sometimes leads to "discussions".  But, tonight, my husband, son, and our friends all sat around the fire together just happy to be there.  To me, it was such a blessing to have that time.  In a world where technology surrounds us, there's still something about sitting outside in a circle surrounding flames and throwing logs on a fire.  It's a time of peace and getting away- even if it's only a few feet away from a house filled with technology. 
On my way to pie night, I had been assuming they would end up asking me about a fire.  My husband had warned me our son was already talking about it.  I had been thinking I was too tired for anything after Pie Night.  But, when they asked, I wavered.  And, I'm so glad I did! 
So, where was God today?  He was sitting around the fire with us, enjoying the beauty of the world He created and the fact that people were enjoying it with Him.
Psalm 105:39
He spread out a cloud as a covering, and a fire to give light at night.
Blessings,
Jennifer 

Mail

This evening when I came home from work, I looked at my mail- another bill.  When I opened it, I found out my gas and electric bill budget amount is being decreased by $50 every month!  Since I'm on a strict budget, that's huge for me!  That got me to thinking about the last few months.  In January, I took a giant leap.  I left a secure job and took a job that I thought would stretch us thin but that I also felt God was leading me to go.  Never wanting my job choice to be a hardship on my family, I put my trust in Him to provide what we needed.  Since then, I haven't looked back.  And, I have continuously been reassured that I made the right choice and that God is taking care of my family.  Instances like tonight when I found out I have $50 more a month to put towards my Financial Peace steps have given me peace of mind. 
A few years back, during our 1st mission trip, the saying started "the more I give, the more I receive".  That has been the case in my life since then.  Earlier this week, I bought chips for the Teen Center.  Every day, we have "5:00 chip time".  As funny as it sounds, I actually have teens that come just for "chip time."  Well, at least that's what got them to start coming.  Then, as time has gone on, they stay and hang out or when they need someone, they know I'm there.  Anyway, we ran out of chips 2 weeks ago so I've been scrambling to find random things for "chip time" since I haven't had many donations lately.  So, I decided to pick up a few bags for this week.  Then, when I went to pick up their Monday pizza, the place for this week wasn't able to make it.  I just couldn't tell them there was no pizza- they really look forward to Monday's pizza.  So, I stopped by another place and picked up a few pizzas.  This week, I've ended up spending more money on stuff like that only to find out I'm getting it all back and then some! 
So, where was God today?  He was letting me know once again that He's got this covered, that He's taking care of everything I need.
John 14:27
“I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Schedule

This afternoon had it's ups and downs.  There were times that my teens were crazy and loud and then the majority of the time we all were sitting together with the tv on but not really watching.  Instead, we were chatting about life, family, and school.  There was some good conversation today- the kind that reinstills in me why I'm there. 
I needed that today.  I needed to be reminded of how important it is to be there no matter what.  It looks like my summer schedule is going to have it's ups and downs, too.  I'll start early, have some free time during the day and work until night.  So, I'll enjoy the midday time at the beach but not the early morning start to my day.  But, today was a reminder that it's not about me or what the ideal situation would be for me.  It's about them and about just being there when I'm needed.  So, I'm sure God had that all in mind as He planned my summer schedule.
“As you do not know the path of the wind, or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things.” Ecclesiastes 11:5
Blessings,
Jennifer

Mothers

It's Mother's Day!  It's been a great day of celebrating.  During church, my son made a point to wait for me so he could sit with me. Usually, he runs the sound so we don't get to sit together. I thought it was sweet of him to do, knowing that would be something special to me.  He also bought me a beautiful glass dolphin.  I'm pretty sure this is the first Mother's Day gift he actually bought me all on his own.
This morning I went to church and saw so many friends.  I am blessed to have an amazing mom!  I am also aware that there are so many people who are amazing mother- like people in other's lives- aunts, friends, teachers, role models.  When people aren't as blessed as I have been, God has other plans for them.  And, God puts people in their path to fulfill that role- both for "mother" and child.  This morning, at church I witnessed several instances of this. 
A girl from youth group has had a rough life until her dad got custody of her.  I have been blessed to be one of the people in her life to fill the gap her mom has left.  She has blessed my life in so many ways and I was happy she was able to spend Mother's Day with us.  She made me a really sweet card and brought me chocolate. 
But, it's not the gifts that are most important.  It's the thoughts, the love, the actions that make being a mom, or "special person" such a joy!
So, where was God today?  I saw Him in the love of so many people in so many different ways, in the ways those people were put where they were supposed to be, in the paths of the people they were supposed to be in.
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:30
Blessings,
Jennifer

Pie

Tonight was Pie Night!  A couple years ago, I was hoping to get my teens involved in our Wednesday night programs at church.  I'd have a few show up but it was sporadic.  Then I found out a local restaurant has pie for .99 a slice every Wednesday.  The week there were at least 16 of us.  Some weeks there are fewer, but we usually fill a few tables with teens.  The restaurant is tolerant of a bunch of teens invading their restaurant every week.  In fact, I'm pretty sure they look forward to it. 
It just amazes me how a slice of pie has brought so many to youth, has brought consistency to the group, and joy to everyone.  It's a great way for teens to introduce youth group to their friends... who doesn't love pie?  And, once they come, they want to come back and see what else "this youth group thing" is about. 
I never would have thought when we started that this would be such a great thing.  Tonight, I had college youth that had just come home but couldn't miss pie night.  No matter what the weather, no matter what the season or holiday, we have pie night!  And, everyone is welcome to join us.
 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.
Romans 8:28 NLT
Blessings,
Jennifer

Discussions

I enjoy the fun times I have with the youth- game nights, pie nights, fun trips, etc.  But, what I really love are the nights when we can really talk.  I love seeing them open up and share about what's going on in their lives and the world around them.  Tonight my middle schoolers talked about bullying.  It was a condensed version and I tried to address a lot of different things in 1 hour.  But, that was tough for several reasons.  And, the main reason was because they all wanted to share their stories.  I love that they are in a place where they feel comfortable to share with each other and with the adults there. 
My high school/ college group discussed parts of a study that was done about teen views of religion and Christianity today.  Watching them discuss, listen, and take apart the questions was awesome!  They are at a point of questioning and trying to grasp what they believe and I love witnessing that happen!  They aren't all ready to grasp, some are still questioning.  But, I believe that is their process to grow their faith and their journey towards God. 
Tonight was a blessing for me.  This is why I do what I do.  The big things are awesome.  But, it's the little things that seem insignificant to some that will consistently build the foundation for faith.  At least, that is my hope.
So, where did I see God today?  I typically go to youth with a plan but not knowing where the discussion will take us.  Tonight was no different.  And, I rely on God to give me the words I need to say, the questions I need to ask, and the things I need to do to steer the discussion in the right direction.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Mushrooms

This morning I invited some friends to go mushroom hunting with me.  A few weeks ago, one of them had told me she had never gone but really wanted to.  My in- laws have property where we usually find quite a few.  I haven't had much of a chance to go out there so this was the first chance I had.
After lunch at a great restaurant, we headed there, hoping to beat the severe storm that was headed our way.  The weather has been different this year and it's a little late, I guess.  But, we went anyway.  As we were headed there, she said she would be happy if she only found 1 mushroom. 
We searched for quite awhile.  The rain came and went several times, but never severe.  At the end of the day, she had found about 7 that were too old and 1 good one.  She was extremely happy! 
My other friend didn't find any but was quite content finding other types of mushrooms and looking them up in the book they had brought.
This evening, one of my youth brought nail polish to do a french manicure on someones nails.  During our free time, she did my nails.  She was so excited and looking forward to painting someones nails tonight.
There are so many thoughts and lessons to be learned from this.  I enjoyed the day not because we were mushroom hunting- it's ok but not something I have to do.  I enjoyed it because of the pure, simple joy I saw in my friend finding one mushroom- actually even before she found it.  My nails look nice right now.  But, I know I'm probably going to mess them up before tomorrow is over.  But, I loved seeing how excited she was when she was painting them.  We should all be excited and joyful for even the simple things in life.  Secondly, being content to look for other things when we can't always find exactly what we want to find is an important thing. 
So, where did I see God today?  I saw Him in the pure, simple joy in the people around me!
I liked this scripture because it illustrates that we can all be joyful no matter what.
Job 39:13
“The wings of the ostrich flap joyfully, though they cannot compare with the wings and feathers of the stork.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Team

This weekend, I got to go to another retreat.  This one was different than last weekend.  It was a retreat for youthworkers and youth from all over Indiana- the youth ministry team.  We got to plan some exciting things for the Methodists in Indiana!  I loved hearing the ideas of the youth, seeing them get excited about sharing God with others, watching them interact and meet new people and seeing them "click" because they are all here for the same reason.  Some of the adults were the same as last weekend so it was nice to see some familiar faces.  Since there were fewer adults, I actually had a chance to chat with them more, too.  Hearing the stories of some of the youth and youthworkers made me proud to be a part of such an awesome group of people!  I'm really looking forward to future gatherings and to seeing what God has in store for everyone!
So, where was God this weekend?  He was at the retreat, in our words and thoughts, helping us figure out how to share His message with others.
Blessings,
Jennifer

Gifts

It's my birthday I can post as much as I want to! ;)
I can't write about my birthday without talking about the ones who made it all possible!  I got a card from my parents for my birthday.  "God created you... every little detail about you.  He gave you life and special gifts to fulfill a unique purpose in this world... a mission He planned for you.  God knows you better and loves you more than anyone ever could."  With parents who instilled that in me for 37 years, how could my life be any different than amazing!?  I'm not sure how I got so lucky, but having my parents as my parents is the best birthday present I ever got!  Raising me to be the person I am now wasn't always easy, I'm sure.  But, raising me to know God was and will always be the guide of my life has blessed me greatly.  It has made me who I am and, hopefully, has given me ways to share with others. 
This writing was interrupted by a phone call from my parents.  Now my day is complete.  Now back to my writing...
There are so many people who have never heard that message who really need to hear it.  It's true for all of us because we are all children of God and we are all made with our own special gifts.  There are moments we have to look beyond what we see to find the glimmers of light.  But, everyone has a gift and I believe it's our job to not only look for them in others, but also to let them know it.  Basically, what would we see in others if we were looking through God's eyes?  What would we see in ourselves? 
So, that is the birthday gift I got 37 years ago- parents who would instill in me a love for God and for others and who would help me realize God's plan for me and the gifts He gave me.
I am blessed!
1 Peter 4:10

New International Version (NIV)

¹⁰ Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.

Blessings,
Jennifer

Birthday

Tonight I am overwhelmed!  I spent the day with people I love doing things I love!  And, my phone was constantly going off telling me I had a message.  They were mainly from facebook.  Today is my birthday and I am abundantly aware of how blessed I am!  I had messages of love and blessings continue throughout my day.  I spent time with people I love throughout the day.  And I did the things I love to do throughout the day!
Some mentioned that I should have taken the day off because it was my birthday.  My response was "why?"  I loved going to work on my birthday and celebrating with my friends- young and not so young.  This morning, I worked at the church and was greeted with happy birthdays and several cards.  I multi- tasked to get my cupcakes done.  Lunch with family was great and filled with laughter and love.  I had more teens show up today than I've ever had before and things were pretty calm there. They all just hung out, enjoyed being there, and enjoyed eating cupcakes. 
God has put so many wonderful people in my path!  And, this path I'm on is such a wonderful path!  I've had my rocky spots.  But, at this very moment, I feel blessed by everything around me! 
So, where was God today?  He sent so many amazing people into my path today to make my birthday special- to remind me through them that He loves me and cares for me- and to remind me of the blessings I have received throughout my life.