My Boy

My boy arrives back home at about 9:45 AM tomorrow and I can't wait to see him and hear all about Argentina. I'm sure is was amazing! I'll have to blog about it cuz I think he gave up on his blog. Thanks to all who have been praying for him and supported him with cold, hard cash!

Creation Camp Day One

It's getting late and I'm dog tired but had to do a quick post about Creation Camp. After tomorrow, I am going to compile a list of the resources we used because EVERY Christ follower needs to see these videos to be able to dispel the theory of evolution in an informed and Biblical way. We need to empower our kids to know what we believe and why we believe it and so they can handle the topic in their public schools. I even learned some things today. We started by simply breaking down the six days of creation and walked through the scripture verses, did some experiments and took a field trip to the park to enjoy God's handy work.

Tomorrow, we are going to the Saylorville gorge, visitor center, the butterfly gardens and enjoying some more teaching from our guest speaker. I was soooo disappointed that when I got my camera out for pictures, my battery was dead! Grrrr. That won't happen tomorrow. I'll write more when I'm not falling asleep.

Randomness

Shocking...a Rolls at Wendy's?!I wonder if they got fries with that?

Sweeeet ride!!

Okay, sometimes you see something unexpected and it just makes you laugh. A couple weeks ago, Micaela and I stopped for gas at Quik Trip on University and across the street at Wendy's, we spotted a Rolls Royce! We drove over to the Wendy's parking lot to get a closer look and as if we were on surveillance, we took some pictures! I know we are weird, but what can I say? It made us laugh at the thought of a Rolls in the Wendy's drive thru....I guess the rich need junk food, too.

Camp Pictures

My buddy Dawson and Pastor BBopp
Our camp theme was Supernatural Treasure

Dawson and me

Our awesome son, Keaton. It may have been the last time we get to

minister together. Sadness.

Belated Happy Birthday Amy

Last week was my friend Amy's birthday. This birthday blog is a little late since I was at camp and she was on vacation. We met for coffee today to catch up a little on life and, as always, our time together was great.

Amy is the most cheerful person. Even if she's going through a struggle, she is smiling and finding the silver lining. Amy is always encouraging and a true friend to so many people. I think she knows just about everyone in the Des Moines area! :)

Amy has a huge, giving heart and shares her time, talents and treasure with family, friends, church, community and more. She and her husband, Mark, sponsor a child in Africa and work on behalf of a wonderful Christ-centered ministry to young mothers-to-be called Ruth Harbor. Amy is passionate about helping those in need and is a great role model for all.

I love to listen to Amy talk about her "cutie girls", Isabella and Lisi. She is an amazing mom and you can tell her girls get the best love and care anywhere. Amy has embraced motherhood in a way that some young moms would do well to emulate. She "gets it" when it comes to the season in her life right now in raising children. Iz and Lisi will be incredible women of God as they learn from their mommy what it means to be a Christ follower.

And speaking of being a Christ follower, Amy is always growing in her faith. I respect her honesty and openness in her learning more about Jesus. With her background knowledge of Mormonism, she totally understands people who are seeking the truth about Jesus and is willing to help them come to know Christ. I've seen her be "Jesus with skin on" many times and I love that about her.

Happy belated birthday, my friend. You rock! Thanks for being such a blessing to me in innumerable ways! Love ya bunches.

Creation Camp

We are gearing up for a two day Creation Camp at Des Moines First Assembly for our 3rd-6th graders. It is this Wednesday and Thursday from 9 AM-3 PM meeting at the church and taking a couple of field trips to a park and to the gorge at Saylorville Lake, butterfly garden and visitor center. We are flying in a guest speaker from California named Pat Roy who is an expert in teaching the Biblical view of creation verses evolution. I'm excited for the opportunity to teach some segments and work with the older kids for a change of pace. The babies are not the best conversationalists. :)

We have some fun things planned and I think it will be interesting for the kids and parents who can come to a question and answer time during Wednesday evening service. We are limiting the number of kids this year as it is our first attempt and we want to make sure we have all the bugs worked out before bringing in a lot of kids. BBopp will be doing a bit of drama with a character called the Baloney Detective. He is always a hoot!

Tough Week

I have to say...it was a tough week at camp. Camp itself was great; fun kids, new friends, old friends, lots of laughs and time with the Lord. But this past week I had to make a trip to the ER in Boone for shots for a migraine and while I was sleeping it off in my cabin, my cell phone rang. It was the associate pastor from the church in Florida telling me they had already hired a children's pastor and our trip was cancelled. So disappointing! Of course I know that means it wasn't where God wanted us but it is still frustrating that we didn't even get the chance to try out. I am trusting God but have to be honest...I am a little discouraged. I guess I am getting a new lesson in patience and keeping a positive attitude.

Kid's Camp Week #1

The first week of Kid's Camp was amazing. We had a smaller camp of about 235 kids, but a great group that was super fun and pretty well behaved. Our camp speaker, Jay Risner, always does a wonderful job. He is such an anointed man of God and is one of the best ventriloquists ever! The kids go nuts when he brings out JoJo, his dummy.

Our son, Keaton, was our sports/activities director for the week and he did a fantastic job! It is a super hard and exhausting responsibility but he pulled it off better than most of the sports directors I've seen in my 14 years at camp. I know, I know...I'm biased but whatever! It was a blast working with him for possibly the last time. I got to be his "assistant" along with my Junior Bible Quiz responsibilities so I was pretty busy too. My body is super sore and I twisted my knee pretty bad but I'm ready to go back today!

This week, I get to work with one of my best friends, Laurie Rich, who pastors in Sioux City. She has been my friend, mentor and confidant for almost 20 years. She is one of those people I totally trust and can be flat out honest with her about anything without fearing judgement.

Altar times were so good with the kids. I love to watch how honest kids are while they worship God. Some can "play church" with the best of them but then there are those who really press in and go after all God has for them. It blesses me so much to see kids pray for each other and then see the look of joy on their faces that they were a blessing to someone else. One of my "jobs" at camp is to have pre-service prayer with all the kids while the rest of the councilors and staff have prayer in another building. During that few minutes, we do a few testimonies of what God is doing in their lives at camp. It's so cool to hear what they have to say and the excitement in their voices.

Pray for us this week. Pray that many come to know Jesus, are healed, called, and filled with the Holy Spirit. Pray for Pastor Jay, the leadership and councilors and maybe even throw one in for the weather! More when I get back....and some pics!

Heading to Camp

I'm off to camp this morning! We now have internet at the campground so I'll try to post a midweek update! Pray for an amazing encounter with Jesus for every camper and councilor. Pray for our people in leadership that we have wisdom and endurance for the week.

How Do You Say Goodbye?

We are preparing to see the Sustala family move back to their home state of Texas. How do you say goodbye to such a wonderful family who has blessed so many people here in the Des Moines area? I'm so happy for their new opportunities and that they will be near family again but they will sure leave a huge whole in my life and heart.

I will never forget the first Sunday I met them. Jordan, Jacob and Jadyn stole my heart right away. I feel so blessed that Ed and Angela entrusted us to minister the Gospel to their kids and get to be a part of their family life. I will always think of Jordan calling Mister Randy "papa" and how she would raise her hands in worship time in Creek Kids. I look at how she has grown so much not just physically but in all areas and for a child with Down Syndrome has flourished and surpassed most people's expectations but God isn't surprised. I think of Jacob's quick wit and protector's heart. He is such a great brother and seems to be a wise old man in a child's body. Jakester is a go getter in all things he does and will be a wonderful man of God. And Jadyn...our little mischievous one! I love her giggle and spunk. I will always remember how she says "Pasto Lowie" and would love to tease me (the gene she inherited from daddy Ed!). So much fun in such a little package. :) And last but not least, baby Jace. I'm sad to not get to be a part of his life but am so thankful he was born in Iowa so we could squeeze in at least a few snuggles!

Angela has been such a precious friend. Not only did we work together in ministry but we just connected personally. Angela, thank you for all your encouragement when I needed it, your listening ear, being my cheerleader, your trust and your love. I admire you on so many levels. Your organization, creativity, passion for learning, passion for motherhood, sense of humor, giving heart all amaze me. I know we will stay in contact cuz our friendship will not be limited to zip codes!

Ed, we will miss your wacky sense of humor. I will forever remember the coconut bra and grass skirt! You are a terrific husband and dad and a man of God that can be admired. I'll try not to be too bitter that your successful career has caused this farewell! :)

So I guess it's not goodbye but more like see ya later. We pray all goes well with the move, you find an awesome new church home and you will always remember your time in Iowa as a great chapter in the Sustala history! Much love and gratefulness for you all! PL

Kid's Camp!!

If you know me, you know I LOVE kid's camp...I live for it every year! I am passionate about what it does in a kid's life. I think it's one of the best investments you can make in your child's spiritual growth. Now I understand that not every camp in the world is awesome but my experience in Iowa has been that kids walk away with more of Jesus and a refreshing that they don't always have to opportunity to receive in their home churches due to time restraints or lack of children's services.

I love connecting with "my kids" away from all the life things that fill our days. You are on camp time...no TV, phones, and plenty of fun stuff to do. There is nothing like spending time at the altar with a child who just received Jesus into their life or praying with kids who are hurting and need a special touch from God. It's so cool to be there when a child hears from God and feels called to a special path such as pastoring or becoming a missionary. It's an honor to cry with them, laugh together and rejoice as the Lord heals them of a physical or spiritual ailment.

I know some churches and pastors feel that camp is "old school" but I couldn't disagree more. If you find the right one, the camp is relevant and inviting to today's kids. I could give testimony after testimony of the incredible things I have witnessed and experienced in the 14 years I have been going. I could also give many arguments to it's benefits but I have included a link to an article that says it better than I probably could.

I leave Monday for two weeks of camp and I can't wait! I come home exhausted beyond belief because camp is for the camper, NOT me!! I work super hard but am so happy to do it. I do reap some benefit, though. I get to connect with other adults who understand why I do what I do and LOVE doing it. Think of me Monday night, I'll be worshipping with a couple hundred kids and soaking in all God has for us. Makes ya wanna go, too, huh? :)

http://childrensministryvault.com/ministry-lessons-ideas-training/19/attend-church-camp

Observation

If you dabble in web page design, you could have an incredible ministry! In my search for a new job, I have looked at a ton of church web sites and several Assembly of God district sites. There are some awesome ones out there; easy to navigate, current and plentiful information, great designs, appealing colors, plenty of pictures, creative animations, maps, downloadable resources, links and much more. BUT, I have seen some that need soooo much help, too. I'm sure it's a combination of not having the $$, expertise or just not enough time to work on it. Someone could be an incredible blessing by offering services to churches at a slightly less fee than usual or maybe even some free time. Sure wish this was one of my talents! A church web site can be such a huge asset but can also be very frustrating to person looking for a church home. Just a thought....maybe you or someone you know needs to see this.

Google Earth

Have you ever used Google Earth? Super cool!! I just was able to look at the church campus of the church I'm going to candidate at in Florida. Yowza. It is amazing what you can do on Google. How did we ever live before Google? Do you think if I type Google one more time, someone from Google will contact me and offer me money? Just wondering. Anywho....check it out.

Changing my Heart

I am having a heart transformation. When we began to talk about the possibility of moving from Iowa, I would instantly feel anxious and about to throw up. But each day, God is transforming my heart and way of thinking. He is showing me the endless possibilities He may have for me in being totally willing to follow Him and step out in faith. I know from the past that there are mighty blessings for obedience (Duet. 28) and even with that knowledge such tremendous life change can be so scary.

But the Lord KNOWS me. He knows that I need time and release to come in small bits. When I knew He was moving me on from Berean, He gave me a slow release and plenty of time to adjust. By having to wait a while to go to Florida, He is ministering to me with time to think it through. Everyone has been nothing but positive about the possibility. I appreciate that so much. It's hard enough to think about turning your life upside down but to have anyone speak of it negatively would make it so miserable. We have such a terrific group of friends and support from family.

I was in the van Thursday morning, driving to Ankeny to meet my friend Judy for coffee. I was rockin' to Desperation Band and the song Ready Now came on. The lyrics hit me in a powerful way. I'm ready now! It made me weep and rejoice. If God wants us here or wherever, I'm prepared to do it. It won't be easy....that's not a promise. The promise is that He will come along for the ride and prepare the way and always lead, guide, bless and anoint what He ordains.

Ready Now
Desperation Band

You come like you promised you would
I want to surrender for good
I know that i need you
And i don't want to keep living life alone
So take my heart and make it new make it true
And make it like you Take my hands I lift them high
They're yours not mine to do
Do what you will
Do what you will
Do what you will
I feel like a blind man in you sight
I know that I'm wicked in your eyes
So wash me and make me shine like the sun
I want to tell everyone that you're the only one
So take my heart
And make it new
Make it true
And make it like you
Take my hands
I lift them high
They're yours not mine to do
Do what you will
Do what you will
Do what you will
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
Do what you will
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
Do what you will
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
So take my heart and make it new make it true
And make it like you
Take my hands I lift them high
They're yours not mine to do
Do what you will
Do what you will
Do what you will
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
Do what you will
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
Do what you will
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
Do what you will
I'm ready now
I'm ready now
I'm ready now

Side Trip

New Life Assembly of God, White Cloud, Michigan

When I heard my good buddies Pastor Bud and Laura Fortney were returning to their home state of Michigan to pastor a church in White Cloud, I got my atlas out and made a very cool discovery. Their new place was only about 45 minutes from our vacation spot! So....ROAD TRIP! We went to see their new church and house, had some great Wing Dings for lunch and some fun conversation. (You always laugh with Bud!) I'm so excited for them and it is an amazing story of how God's hand was on every single part of their move! They have a beautiful new home that has plenty of room for their four kids and 14 acres of wooded land for Bud to hunt to his heart's content. Their church is in a very nice, new building and sounds like a healthy, growing body of believers. It was a special blessing to share this with them on our trip. Pastor Bud had some great advise and words of encouragement in our search for a place to minister. It's so awesome to have so many great friends across the U.S.!

Vacation

Sunset on Silver Lake
My dad and stepmom

My brother Paul, sister-in-law Heather, Pavianna and Jacob

Ken and Betty with dad and Val

Lighthouse on Lake Michigan

Riding the dunes in dad's Jeep

Sunset on Silver Lake

Hangin' at the campsite

Randy, Dave and Paul

Me and my brother Matt giving his "I'm sad to leave my big sis" face!

Beautiful Heather

Matt on the knee board

Pavi

Jake and Uncle Randy

Dinner with Jim and Lana

I've been trying to get caught up on life since we got back from vacation so I'm behind in getting these pics out. We had a fantastic time with my family in beautiful Michigan. The first couple of days were flat out COLD and the last few were chilly but sunny. I really should have packed more sweatshirts but it gave me an excuse to buy a new, super cute one at Silver Lake. :)

We enjoyed some time on my brother Paul's boat and watching him and my brother Matt use the knee board to ski. They said the water was actually pretty warm but the air sure wasn't. We also hit the dunes in my dad's Jeep and his buddy Ken's H3 Hummer. It was kinda funny....whenever we had the Hummer on the dunes, people would stop to watch and see how it did on the gi-normous hills. It did fine, thank you very much!

There is nothing like eating outdoors and sitting around a campfire! We always have a fire at the end of the day and make treats and just talk the night away. We had church Sunday morning at the campsite with some worship choruses sang acappella and our friend Dave bringing the message.

I was so frustrated to not only get several calls about work but my phone reception was terrible. But one cool thing was that whenever I got a call from the Florida church, I had NO problem with reception and was able to interview without service interruptions! Hum....is that a sign?

One of the best parts of vacation was spending time with my niece Pavianna and nephew Jacob. What GREAT kids they are! Pavi is going to be a 6th grader and Jake a 3rd grader. They were so much fun and even though Jake didn't remember us from last time we were there we really connected.

My brother Matt is an absolute nut. I think there is definitely a family gene shared by Matt and Keaton! Matt was only with us one day and then caught a ferry that took him across Lake Michigan back to Milwaukee where he lives with his girl, Christine. They are talking marriage and I reminded him his big sister is a pastor....hint, hint!

I'm so incredibly thankful for my dad. I didn't get to grow up with him but I know he is probably one huge reason that I am a Christ follower today. He got saved right after he and my mom divorced and he prayed for me even though he didn't have contact with me for many years. After we were reacquainted when I was 16, he would send me letters with scriptures and testimonies of Christ's love and forgiveness. He planted seeds that were watered and harvested by others. He and I had a private conversation about the past and feels so much regret over how we were separated for so many years. But I'm just thankful we have each other now and I know that it all "worked together for the good." (Romans 8:28) He blessed me so much with some words of encouragement and he told me how proud he is of me. Thanks Lord!

The night before we left, we had dinner with some of our best friends, Jim and Lana. Their anniversary is two days after ours so we celebrated together.