Simply Youth Ministry Sale

There is a big sale going on at Simply Youth Ministry - Dollar Days.  A lot of items are now just $1.00.  Click the 20% off to take EXTRA money off!!!!!

Christmas Eve Tradition

I forgot to post this on Christmas Day. I love that Jana started this tradition. I am not sure what we will do when she gets older, but, for now, Ella really likes it too. This is Christmas Eve, just before Ella goes to bed.  Here is the video from the first year.  

 

Christ Came Christmas Video #25

Walton's Christmas - Christmas Video #23

Veggie Tales - Christmas Video #22

Christmas In Heaven - Christmas Video #21

MIckey Mouse - Christmas Video #20

Ella loves "Mickey" so I found a video from the mouse and his friends. From our family to yours - We Wish You a Merry Christmas!

Phil Robertson Suspension: Perry Noble Said It Well

I love what Perry Noble has to say about the Phil Robertson suspension on A&E.  Please take the time to read the article:  http://perrynoble.com/blog/duck-dynasty-homosexuality-and-political-correctness

Silent Night - Christmas Video #19

Cats & Christmas Trees - Christmas Video #17

I am not a fan of the cat we have. It's not the cat so much as it is ALL cats. This video reminds me of Moses, "Mo", and our Christmas tree. . .

Sanford and Son Christmas - Christmas Video #16

The show was what it was but here is Fred in one of his more serious moments . . .

O Come Emmanuel - Christmas Video #15

Mt. Dew Christmas Tree - Christmas Video #14

Everyone know how much I enjoy Diet Mt. Dew. So, a video with liquid of life was in order. Right?

Elf Training Camp - Christmas Video #13

I know quite of few people who have an "Elf on the Shelf" in their homes. I wonder if they know the training the elves have to go through to prepare for the Christmas season? Let me show you . . .

Mary Did You Know - Christmas Video #12

Tractor Christmas - Christmas Video #11

I wasn't going to do another Christmas lights display this year, but this is for all my farmer/tractor loving friends. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gLwllqJdRk4

"Hairy Christmas" - Christmas video # 10

I enjoy the beards of Duck Dynasty. Merry, or should I say, Hairy, Christmas

Carol of the Bells Warehouse - Christmas Video #9

I love the creativity here . . .

Simple Christmas - Christmas Video #8

Please consider how we can make Christmas, AND everyday look more like Jesus. . .

How To make a Star - Christmas Video #7

Here is a little DYI from Lowe's to help with you Christmas decorating . . .

Grip of Grace: Advent Adventures - Toddler Edition #5 - Movie Wat...

Check out Jana's posts this month about our Advent Adventures.  Click Grip of Grace: Advent Adventures - Toddler Edition #5 - Movie Wat... to see the latest post and go to her Grip Of Grace blog to see all of them.

Skit Guys "Living Nativity" - Christmas Videos #6

I love the end of this video. It means more to me now that I have a daughter. This is funny and yet heartwarming. . .

Fun In Potter County

Over Thanksgiving we traveled to the Grant homestead for a few days. Two of Ella's cousins came to sled . . .

Christmas Rap Battle - Christmas Video #5

Here is something a little different . . .

Four People to Feel Sorry for at Christmas - Christmas Video #4

Ella Helps OCC - Christmas Video #3

Today's video is of Ella unloading and stacking shoe boxes at the collection center, Guardian Angel Bookstore in Richfield, PA for Operation Christmas Child.   You could still get involved.  Check out their website!

Jingle Hoops - Christmas Video #2

This pretty impressive . . .

Start December Right - Video #1

If, And Only If, I Had Unlimited Resources

Call me a geek! Call me what you will. But, this is the kind of thing I would like to have if I were made of money. . .

 

My Sister's New Blog

Check out my sister's new blog. I think you will enjoy it!

Life of a Chicken Farmers (New) Wife: I'm Checking the Peeps...well, helping at least: Sorry I didn't get this in yesterday...two reasons..1. I never got more than 10 minutes on the computer at a time yesterday (and yes thi...

My Sister's New Blog

Check out my sister's new blog. I think you will enjoy it!

Life of a Chicken Farmers (New) Wife: I'm Checking the Peeps...well, helping at least: Sorry I didn't get this in yesterday...two reasons..1. I never got more than 10 minutes on the computer at a time yesterday (and yes thi...

Helping to Carry OCC Boxes

We took the shoe boxes that the church made to the Relay Center in Richfield this morning.  Ella went along.  While she could have been watching a Veggie Tales video at the store, she decided she wanted to carry boxes instead.  She made over 15 trips in and out of the store carrying boxes - smiling the entire time!

Son of God: A message from Roma Downey and Mark Burnett

We are looking into bringing this to the Central PA area.  More details will be available at a later date.  

12 Reasons Why a Pastor Quit Attending Sporting Events

This is not mine, obviously.  But, I really liked the message here.  


1. The coach never came to visit me. 

2. Every time I went, they asked for money. 

3. The people sitting in my row didn’t seem very friendly. 

4. The seats were very hard. 

5. The referees made a decision I didn’t agree with. 

6. I was sitting with hypocrites—they only came to see what others were wearing! 

7. Some games went into overtime and I was late getting home. 

8. The band played some songs I had never heard before. 

9. The games are scheduled on my only day to sleep in and run errands. 

10. My parents took me to too many games when I was growing up. 

11. Since I read a book on sports, I feel that I know more than the coaches, anyway. 

12. I don’t want to take my children because I want them to choose for themselves what 

      sport they like best.

Where Were You . . . On That Day

Ella and the Hotdog Cutter

Time Flies . . .

I can't believe it is two years since Ella was born!  What a fabulous two years it has been!  

iphone Pics of Ella's First Three Months

Stop Motion by Derek Schoeppner

I just found out that Derek was doing these Stop Motion videos on YouTube! Derek comes to my church. This takes hours upon hours and picture upon picture to produce. What a great job. I am not sure I would have the forbearing spirit to do this. GREAT JOB Derek! Check out his other videos here.

 

Dexter Herman - "Turning Heads"

I am excited to post about a friend and former football player I coached a number of years ago.  Dexter Herman is playing football at Liberty University and should see even more playing time in the 2013 season.  According to this report from the Liberty Flames Sports Network, Dexter is "turning heads" in preseason camp.  I will try to post on his progress.  Here is the link to the article  2013 Training Camp Position Preview: TE & FB | Liberty Flames

Here is the video

Camp Video from Thursday - 2013

Camp Video - Wednesday

Camp Video of Tuesday

Here is the video we will be show sometime this morning at camp.




Today we go to the water slides in the afternoon.

Video of Monday at Camp

Here is the video we will show this morning around 9 AM.  There aren't a LOT of pictures, but it will give you an idea about camp.  Enjoy.

Camp 2013

What a crazy start to the camp week.  It wasn't really any one thing, it just seemed crazy.  We did have one of our vans have a flat tire which made them over an hour late.  Without those 35 people and cabin leaders, the craziness was really the lack of leadership more than anything.  While we all othelped out wherever we could, it meant that some things had to suffer.  Hence, I have no pictures to show yet.

Tomorrow is another day and we are praying that things go smoothly.  We are looking forward to everything God has in store for us.  Look for more pics/videos late tomorrow and/or Tuesday.

Watch Jason Jump!

This short video is Jason, our Youth Pastor, as he watches a "Ghost" video I had sent him.  The quality isn't really great as I had to be a bit "Stealth" as he was expecting something to happen.  I enjoy  working Jason.  Enjoy.  

If This Is Your PIN, Change It!

Do you have a problem remembering you PIN for your ATM Card or Credit Card and use something easy to remember?  Maybe you should check out this article . . .

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/-the-10-most-easily-stolen-atm-pins--184658424.html

George Clooney, Franklin Graham and Greta Van Susteren Agree about the Sudan

Watch the video below and read the article about George Clooney (sorry about some of the language) to see than there are major issues in the Sudan.



http://omg.yahoo.com/blogs/celeb-news/george-clooney-spends-nespresso-paycheck-satellite-why-184530124.html?cache=clear

Clayton's Train Whistle

Jim Worthing sang at RMC's Outdoor service last night and Clayton Stauffer was ready for the song . . .

By the way, Jim will be in concert again at RMC on March 2 at 6:30 PM.  Come out and join us!  

Do You Use Dropbox? You Should!

If you haven't already heard about Dropbox, I would like to introduce you.   Dropbox has saved me time this week as I was able to access files I had saved in Dropbox from someone else's computer when my computer wasn't available!  If you need some extra storage space, or would like to access your files from anywhere, you might try Dropbox.  You can also share your files with other people.  Jana and I did this a couple of weeks ago when emailing a large file wouldn't work!  I use it with my iPhone, iPad and on my PC!

Mashable.com has also produced a list of "10 Things You Didn't Know You Could Do With Dropbox"

If you are interested in more  information about Dropbox, click HERE.

Trace Bundy In Concert at RMC!

I would like to introduce you to international guitarist, Trace Bundy.  I have heard him live twice, once in Colorado and once in Indianapolis.  Both times I was blown away and I think you will be too.  Here is how he is described:

Trace Bundy must be seen, not just heard. His music is poetry in motion, using harmonics, looping, multiple capos, and his unique banter and stage presence to deliver an unforgettable live concert experience. Listening to his intricate arrangements is one thing, but seeing the fan-dubbed "Acoustic Ninja" play live confounds even the most accomplished music lovers as to how one person can do all that with just two hands and ten fingers.

Trace will be in concert at the Richfield Mennonite Church on Sunday, October 20, 2013 beginning at 6:30 PM.  Make plans to attend!  Watch a bit of Trace in action. . .

Preschool Bible School

38 preschool kids have attended the VBS  at RMC!

Ella Goes for a "Piggy Back" Ride

I am not sure why they call it a "Piggy Back" ride because the "Piggy" isn't anything like a pig, but that's what they called it when I was a kid. So, sorry Jana! Either way, Ella loved the time with mommy and she held on tight! Enjoy!

 

The Hungary Team Departs!

We prayed for and sent the Hungary team off this afternoon. Praying for a great and very fruitful trip.  You can follow them at www.rmchungary.blogspot.com

Ella and the Hotel Crib!

BIG YOUTH MINISTRY SALE!

For all my youth ministry friends. Get it while it's hot. . . AND CHEAP!

Thought Of You, Kevin Milliken . . .

This is priceless. I laughed until I had tears in my eyes. I do appreciate this kid's response to the mishap. Watch and enjoy.

 

Fun At The River Service

The Salad Tub

Eating at the "Millheim" in the town with the same name on our way home from our mini vacation and noticed this. There are two of these they use for their food/salad bar. I am not sure how I feel about this. It IS being resourceful.  

Summer Kids Camp

Our Camp for kids who have finished 1st - 6th grade will be held August 4 - 9, 2013 at the beautiful Camp Mantowagan near Saxton, PA (and Lake Raystown). We always have a great time learning more about God and enjoying His creation. Registrations can be downloaded HERE. One of the activities each day is going to the lake. Here is a fun video we did in 2008 about some of the rules.

Badger Fight Song

The Hula Hoop Contest

This is our youth pastor, AWANA Commander and Heidi Lauver in the Hula Hoop contest during one of the Uncle Phil's Diner production.

RMC Boomwackers

Do All To The Glory of God!!!

I love Aaron's enthusiastic singing and love of God.  It shows here as he leads the widows/widowers in a hymn.

A Duet by Ella & Emily

Ella and Emily play a duet on the piano before our luncheon with the widows/widowers this week. We are hoping Ella enjoys music and wants to play.

 

Joel & Aaron (and Gene) Sing at the Pastor's Lunch for Widows/Widowers

Trying not to be too self promoting. . . A lot of people have asked for this.

AWANA 2013 Closing Program

Uncle Phil's Diner, The Badger Homecoming in Pictures

Uncle Phil's Diner - Wally Sings The Wallflower Song

Parenting Tips to Get You Through The Day

Wayne Rice at homeward.com writes about 12 tips to help parents of teenagers interact with their kids.  Things like 

• Ask your teenager to play his/her favorite music on your stereo. Listen and discuss the music with him or her. Find out why he/she likes it so much. Try to avoid criticism.
• Think of something positive you can say to your teenager today ... and say it.
• Love your spouse. A strong family provides security for teenagers.

Go here to see the entire list, and some bonus tips as well.  

Help A Teacher

I thought this was a great way to support those teachers who are really interested in teaching and yet are strapped by finances. There is an organization called DonorsChoose.org who helps teachers fund special projects that aren't able to be paid for by their school district but would benefit their students. I would just like to draw your attention to this site and let you decide if it would be something you think would be worthy of a donation. Click here for more information.

Don't Eat Yellow Snow

Standing In Line for Starbucks at SYMC

Ella Finds a Fury Friend

Jana and Jodi speaking at SYMC

Jana and Jodi have been asked to be part of the peer panel today at SYMC. Jana has a couple this weekend. Jodi is quite nervous but is doing a great job.

What's In At SYMC?

I have noticed a trend here at SYMC. The bald headed bearded men are walking all over the place here in Indy. Here are just a few samples of what I'm talking about.

Some Sites at SYMC

Here are just a few sites you might see if you're coming to the Simply Youth Ministries Conference (SYMC) in Indianapolis.

Ella and Grandma's Doll

Everything Is Bigger In Texas

We enjoyed lunch with my uncle Dale today and we had the Santa Fe chicken sandwich. It is true what they say, everything is bigger in Texas!

BeastMode and Coach Pete

I am not a Seahawks fan, and I will ultimate root for the AFC team in the Super Bowl, but a youth pastor friend of mine working in the Northwest made this video and I thought it would good to show before the games.

BeastMode and Coach Pete from EastLake Church on Vimeo.

A Visit To The PA Farm Show

We took a trip to the PA Farm Show this week.  This show is billed as the "largest indoor agricultural exposition in the country".  Ella seemed to really enjoy the people and the animals.  I really enjoyed the food!  It was the first time for both Jana and Ella to attend.  I think it was a good time for all of us.  Below, Ella tries to make friends with one of the hundreds of cows exhibited at the complex.  

Parents: What Can Be Learned from the Hatfields & McCoys?

In this week's Link For Parents, Brain Housman writes on www.parentzilla.com about the "winner takes all" approach to parenting.  So many times we forget to forgive and will do anything to show our kids that we are in charge.  Check out Brian's tips and comment below with your thoughts and ideas.  Here's the link.

http://www.parentzilla.com/are-you-tired-of-winner-takes-all-parenting/

Simply Youth Ministry Conference

For all my Youth Ministry friends . . . You NEED to consider going to this conference this year! You have a little time left to get the discounted registration! Go to conference.youthministry.com for more information and to register.

 

Walk Through the Bible Event at RMC!

RMC is planning a "Walk Thru the Bible, Old Testament" Event on Saturday, March 2. I have been through a number of these seminars and have enjoyed each one and learned something each time. Times/costs/information will be coming very soon. I have embedded a video about the event below. Check it out, mark the date on your calendar and plan to join us for this very informative seminar.

 

Ella Gets a Ride in Her Blanket

The Cruiser's Ladies enjoyed Ella during our Christmas party.  She enjoyed having them here too.

What Do Your Kids Learn From Your Marriage?

I would like to start a new weekly series on "A Bunch of Stuff" that will try to encourage parents as they raise their kids.  Actually, it might just me looking for some help as well.  And, almost ALL the content will be from others who have more experience then me.  But, from my 25 years of experience as a youth pastor, I have come to realize that the parents have all the responsibility of raising their kids - not the youth pastor, the church or anyone else.  So, I want to encourage parents to do the parenting.

Here is my first link.  Please feel free to comment about your thoughts below.  

Doug Fields writes about "10 Things Kids Learn From Their Parents' Marriage" at Homeward.com.  He says that while he is not always speaking about his marriage, his kids can always learn from what they see.  Just as an older gentleman with three boys told me a long time ago.  "I always try to follow the speed limit and the posted signs because I have 6 eyes in the back seat watching everything I do."  Same is true about your marriage.  Check out Doug's list and evaluate how you are doing in your marriage.  And, maybe you could add to the list.