Iowa State Fair

Senator John McCain
The Butter Shawn Johnson

The famous Iowa Butter Cow

Besties!
Toot Toot!!

A four day old calf...so cute!
A couple of prizes!


And one of the most exciting State Fair attractions....The Sham-WOW! Totally bought one! Actually got two for the price of one! Lucky!

Micaela, Jerrilyn and I went to the Iowa State Fair for a few hours today. What a gorgeous day we had!! The Fair wasn't too busy when we arrived so we got around easily. We had to show off all the important ISF attractions to Jerrilyn since she has never been. It was fun, too, because we ran into lots of people we know. Some old church friends, one of my best teacher friends and some kids that used to be in my children's church years ago. Great to see familiar faces.

As we were in line to see the butter cow and the butter Shawn Johnson, there was suddenly several police officers and security people asking if we could hold back the line for a moment. I thought it was strange but before I realized it, the reason came walking two feet in front of me! It was John McCain! He was at the fair today and also had to see the butter cow! My picture is kinda blurry but was taken quickly before he got too far away. Kinda cool to be so close to our next president. I'm speaking in faith!

There were NO calories counted today! I had a corn dog AND some cheese curds and I don't want to hear about how bad they were for me. You can just eat a big bowl of shut the heck up. :) I enjoyed hangin' with the girls and visiting the fair on such a beautiful day. I hadn't been to the fair in a long time so it was a nice treat. Wish the boys could have joined us.

Count Down

Two more days of class and Randy is DONE!! He has been a real trooper all summer finishing up his stuff but I know he is totally over school! Someone asked him if he is going to continue on for his MBA and I think he had a hard time not laughing his head off or punching the guy in the throat! Just kidding. Way to go, my hunky man.

Micaela's Bestie

Micaela's best friend, Jerrilyn, is coming to spend a long weekend with us! She's a great gal that fits in so well with our crazy family. Micaela and Jerrilyn met at Evangel University 2 years ago and became besties right away. She's originally from Ohio, but upon graduating last spring with her BA in nursing, she now is living and working in Springfield. So guess where Micaela wants to find gainful employment next summer? :)

Jerrilyn chose a good weekend to come with the cooler weather and the Iowa State Fair. Too bad she wasn't here this morning at 5:30 for the free admittance and corn dogs! Love corn dogs but not at 5:30 AM! Anywho...it will be a blast to have our "adopted daughter" here for a few days.

No New News

I've had lots of questions about my job search and I don't really have any new news. I had a great conversation (phone interview) with a pastor in the St. Louis area last week but haven't heard back from him or from anyone else, YET. I keep reminding myself that God is never early or late...He's always on time. Also, I think there are probably a lot of pastors still finishing vacation time so it may take longer to hear from someone.

I really appreciate all who have been praying for us. I spoke with my friend Debbie who said they pray together as a family every night for Randy and me. They know how much I miss pastoring and have always been some of my greatest encouragers. I love you guys!!

I'm super excited to see what God has in store. We are ready to be obedient to whatever He asks.... if He wants us to stay in Iowa or move across the country, we just want to serve a church that believes in children's ministry. I'm excited to pour every bit of my heart into reaching a lost community of kids and to help empower their parents to be the spiritual leaders of their homes. I'm looking forward to doing "lunch with Pastor Lori" at some schools and hitting those fall sports games. I'm ready to check out some dance recitals, school programs and do some Christian school chapel services. And most of all, I'm chomping at the bit to be preaching most Sundays to a congregation of kids that want and need to grow in their relationships with Jesus.

I met with my Junior Bible Quiz successor for the Iowa Metro South JBQ group. I'm so thankful that LeAnne Krell is taking over my responsibilities as she will do an awesome job. I felt like I needed to go ahead and ask for a replacement in case God moves us away. I have loved being a part of JBQ for about 14 years and in leadership for the past six or seven years. It is a ministry that I believe in as I have witnessed how it changes a child's heart to be a lifelong learner of God's Word. I have seen JBQ bring families together to grow in their knowledge of the Bible and become study partners. I will miss quiz but maybe my new church will offer JBQ.

We will keep everyone posted and will prayerfully have some news soon!

How Do You Judge People?

Here is an article written by Pastor Dary Northup, senior pastor, from Timberline Church in Fort Collins, CO. He says it so well! I am so tired of people saying they want to win sinners to Jesus but are putting labels on people and judging what they should look like and how they should act before they even know Jesus. What is even more frustrating to me is when a wonderful Christ follower is criticized, shunned or thought less of by their so-called fellow believers because they don't fit the "Christian" mold that they think everyone should. We recently had an incident involving someone who will remain nameless (even if you think you know who this involved - shut up!) and my daughter Micaela. She has been ridiculed by people, who KNOW her heart and the fruit of her life, for having a pierced nose. Now I know it is not everyone's thing, but it's hard to believe she would have her Christianity questioned for a small hoop in her nose! Micaela is an adult and she is fully aware that not every culture is accepting of this fad but it doesn't affect her walk with Jesus. She respects situations when it should be taken out and understands that in a work environment, it may need to be removed. I could go on but Pastor Dary makes some better points than I could and has a broader view. Let's all remember the cheesy but true saying...."What would Jesus do?"

Pastor Dary says....
What does it mean to try to build a “Prodigal Friendly Church”? The familiar Luke 15 passage is a snapshot of a young man who ran away from his roots and experienced a wild self-centered world for a season. When he came home, his father welcomed him with opened arms and his elder brother would not even acknowledge him as a brother. When talking to his father, the elder brother refers to the prodigal as “this son of yours.”

Jesus is telling this story to the religious people of His day. They are a picture of the elder brother. The spirit of the elder brother is alive and well in the church today. If the prodigal had bumped into the elder brother before he met the father, I am quite certain the prodigal would have never made it inside the house that day.

As a pastor, I live with this tension of hoping that we as a church can embrace rather than reject those prodigals who walk the path toward home. Many prodigals still have the stench of the pigs on them. They are marked and scarred from sin. They may look and behave differently than the “church” crowd. Their piercings and tattoos are important to them. They may need to put out their cigarette right before walking into our building. If they meet the elder brother at the door, it will be unlikely that they will experience the warm reception of the father.
So, a few thoughts about equipping people to welcome the prodigal.

1.Teach believers to appreciate diversity...from clothing preferences to hairstyles. I am stunned at how many believers have a cookie-cutter mindset of what a Christian is to look like.

2.Teach believers to respect the spiritual journey of every person in the room. Remember, some plant, some water, some reap the harvest. Work diligently to create an environment where prodigals and the unchurched find it safe to ask questions...to disagree, to share their opinion, to express their thoughts. We are all at different places in our journey with God.

3.Trust the Holy Spirit to lead people into the lifestyle changes they need to make. We are not called to be the Holy Spirit in someone’s life. Let God renew and clean the heart, body, and spirit of a prodigal. When we try to clean people up it usually brings confusion. Rather, let’s walk with them as God cleans them up.

4.Train people to understand the difference between these three things...absolutes, cultural expectations, and preferences. As followers of Christ, we often try to make our preferences into biblical absolutes when they are not. It is like Paul’s challenge concerning eating meat offered to an idol. That was a cultural issue that was treated with respect, but it was not a biblical absolute. I fear many church leaders place a higher expectation on people based on their own preferences rather than biblical absolutes. When churches have cultural expectations that are not based on biblical absolutes, it places an undue burden on prodigals and the unchurched.

5.Pray to God that there will be an authentic move of God in people in every church service you have. There are no gimmicks from the world that can compete with God’s Spirit moving on the heart of a person. The world has some things that we don’t have, but we have something the world can never have, and that is the Spirit of God drawing people. God’s presence has no substitute. I try to pray and think about what those moments might look like in each service. Let God give you insight and wisdom to encourage people to have a moment when they wake up from the pigpen and run to Father God.

Finally, don’t be afraid to kill the fattened calf and have a party. Every church has a fattened calf; it simply varies from church to church as to what it is. Celebrating the return of the prodigal is something the elder brother could not do. Let’s not be like that. Celebrate those who once were lost, but now are found.
So...party on, church.

Creation Camp Day Two

Seahorse fossil
cleaning off a fossil

Taking notes at the Butterfly Garden

Sweet...we found tadpoles!

Saylorville Gorge

Pat Roy teaching about the Biblical floods and Iowa floods at the Gorge

Pastor BBopp and wife Kathy did an awesome job of planning our Creation Camp and day two was off the hook! We had our expert speaker, Pat Roy, again, we made fossils, went to the Saylorville gorge and Butterfly Garden, had a picnic lunch, listened to Jonathon Park Adventures and had a blast. I'm including a list of resources we used. If you are a home schooler, these would be invaluable things to have. If your kids go to public school, this will help you explain why the Theory of Evolution is WRONG and get the Biblical view of creation at the forefront of their thinking.

The gorge was so interesting since the recent flood destruction. Pat Roy is from San Diego and he said it was interesting that at the same time the wild fires were in their news every day, the San Diego news also featured the floods in Iowa. He loved Iowa....kept saying how beautiful it was, how clean everything is and how there was a good mix of culture and nature. I agreed and thought I needed to be more appreciative of where I live! I saw it with fresh eyes. I think there may be a sermon in there but I won't chase that bunny right now. :)

Pat Roy's main career is to write and produce a drama series called Jonathon Park. He also does some speaking with his ministry called Creation Works, teaching how science is in harmony with God's Word. Enjoy the pics and here are the references:

http://jonathanpark.com (all kinds of cool stuff including home school lessons, listen to the radio show, coloring pages, puzzles, etc.)

Books: Genisis for Kids, Tommy Nelson publisher, Doug Lambier and Robert Stevenson authors, Studies in Flood Geology by Woodmarappe

Videos: God's Rockin World by the Moody Institute of Science and Incredible Creatures that Defy Evolution with Jobe Martin by Real Productions (this one was incredible)

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.

News

I know my quick blog caused some curiosity. Here's the scoop. I mentioned before that I have started sending resumes nationwide. It's one of those things that I did not really think there would be a lot of interest but am getting some good responses. One in particular is very exciting and scary at the same time. I had a phone interview with a church in Port Charlotte, FL before I went on vacation that went pretty well. He said the associate pastor would call back in a few days. True to his word, they both called for a second interview while we were in Michigan. It was interesting to interview for a children's pastor job as I was driving the back roads of western Michigan sight seeing and talking on the phone! Several phone calls later and after they contacted my references, they have invited us to come and meet the staff and try out. Eeeek! We are flying down on August 8 (after all the staff is back from vacations) and will return to Des Moines late Monday night the 11th. They are planning a staff picnic and some meetings, tours, and I'll preach on Sunday. I flux between excited and nearly throwing up! The timing is good since it will be after camps and Randy will have just finished his classes! The tickets are bought and the itinerary set!

I don't really want to leave Iowa but I do want to be wherever God can use me best. My family is being so incredibly supportive and happy for me. My husband is willing to go and I can't begin to relay how much that means to me. Please pray for us. It is a HUGE decision and has so many layers of change. This may not be the one but so far, it's feeling pretty good.

A Quick Hello

Just a quick post to say we're back and had a wonderful time even though several of my team members forgot I was supposed to be on vacation and kept calling me with work questions!! I have lots of pics and details to share and some pretty big news, too. More tomorrow as I am dead tired!

Blog Break

T minus about 15 hours until VACATION!! I'll be taking a blog break and I'm sure I'll have tons of pics when I get back. I'm looking forward to reconnecting with my siblings, especially my brother Matt who isn't as close to the Lord as he used to be. I really want to minister to him and just catch up on life. We are expecting a pretty important call next week so pray I have some cell phone reception out in the woods of Michigan. If not, oh well, it'll happen. Now...back to peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies, apple, pumpkin and pecan pies and Scotch-a-roos. No, I'm not eating them, just baking them!

Not to Be Outdone By Her Brother

Here she is...my beautiful, slightly crazy daughter! She makes me laugh and keeps life interesting. Micaela always has a slant on life that makes you think, laugh or enter into a great debate. She is passionate about Jesus, missions, music, family, travel, art, comedic movies, and her friends. She loves dark chocolate, green tea frappachinos from Starbucks and could eat out every day of her life. Nobbies, it so happens, is a family addiction! :) I'm soooooo glad to have her home for the summer. Sorry about the sleeping conditions, Mic!

The Ways of the Lord

The ways of the Lord never stop amazing me. Yesterday, I was driving to drop off the van for an oil change and God spoke to me about an old friend who I had heard was recently very sick. I thought, boy, I better obey the Lord right now and call and see if she's okay. I caught her at home feeling much better after a bought of food poisoning. I thought that the Lord prompted me to call her so I could minister to her, but I was wrong.

Our conversation came around to the possible life changes Randy and I are facing and it was she who ministered to me. She reminded me of some scripture verses that I needed to hear and some Godly principles that applied to the way I have been feeling. She spoke in such an encouraging and loving way that really lifted my soul. She had experienced some of the same types of challenges I have and her wisdom blessed me to keep focused on what God is doing...not what man is or is not doing. She also reminded me that if people are motivated by anything other than God's will, that it will be revealed in due time.

Yesterday was also a day of confirmation that change was coming for sure, not just maybe. But I will not fear, nor worry. I will not dwell on woulda, coulda, shoulda. I will look forward to what God has in store, knowing He is in control, not surprised by situations, and has a way better plan than me! I'm so thankful listened to God yesterday even though I thought it was for another reason.

Happy Anniversary

It's a few days early but I wanted to post an anniversary message to my incredible husband, Randy. Our 28th wedding anniversary is this Saturday, June 21....the day we are leaving for vacation. I remember our "wedding" like it was yesterday. I'll spare you the whole story but we eloped one Saturday morning in the tiny little town of Elk Point, SD where there is no waiting period after you purchase a license. Randy's sister and husband went with us as witnesses. We got married about 9:30 AM, drove the 45 minutes back to Sioux City, went to my baby brother's baseball game, visited Randy's mom at work, had dinner with Randy's brother and wife and then went to the tiny mobile home we had rented for our "honeymoon." Some of you may be thinking, "How lame?" but I wouldn't change that day for anything.

Randy is a rare man. He is the most supportive and encouraging husband EVER. We have been through so many trials together and had some rough spots in our relationship but I can always trust that Randy will hang tough and be the man of God he is meant to be. I learned a long time ago that I can trust him.

Happy Anniversary my hunky man! You have endured a lot these past three years with all the changes in my jobs, knee surgeries, finishing college, selling our house and moving...you deserve some sort of large obnoxious trophy or at least a wad of cash! Here's to 28 more wonderful years! I love you.

Grrrrrrr!!

I saw a bumper sticker today that REALLY ticked me off! It read, "I'm a Christian and Pro-Choice." Are you kiddin' me?

Seven Days 'Til Michigan!

I can't wait...seven days until we are on our first vacation in almost six years! It's gonna cost a boat load in gas money but oh well, at this point I don't care. I just want to get away and see my family. I'll get to see my siblings who I haven't seen since the last time we were there. I'm super excited to see my three nieces and two nephews, too. We'll be camping, jeeping on the dunes and hanging out at the campfire with my dad's best friends for the last 35 years. We'll play a lot of washers, Uno, and Skipbo and of course EAT! Doesn't that sound like a wonderful vacation? It's camping my style...in a motor home. HeeHee!

We'll take a side trip to see my buddies Pastor Bud and Laura in their new church that is only about 45 minutes from where we will be camping! Maybe we'll do Sunday morning service there. We usually have church together at the campground, which can be very cool with the other campers watching. Either way, we won't miss worship while we are gone.

My husband loves Michigan so much, I wouldn't be surprised if he job hunts while we are there! If I said "let's move to Michigan" my usually calm, steady husband would pack at the speed of sound!

Pray our van runs well...she's gettin' a lot of miles on her. :)

Back From Family Camp

Family Camp was fun! It was good to see some old friends and make some new ones, too. The attendance was down a little due to all the weather and flooding in some areas. The campground was pretty sloppy but that's part of the whole experience of being "back in the sticks."

I had about 25 kids at each of the five services and Sunday School and they were a wonderful group of very sweet kids. Some were kids I knew from JBQ and a couple from other camps. We have a new camp manager who had three of his four children attend my services. They are back in the Midwest after living in Kentucky for several years. Great family!!

I'm a little tired today as I'm out of practice. I have not done multiple speaking services for awhile and I sure could tell in my voice. It felt great to be "Pastor Lori" this weekend and I think the messages were well received and the kids did great remembering all five of the Big Ideas. We had some awesome prayer time....nothing like praying at an altar with kids. They are so honest and are open to the things of God in ways that most adults hold back from.

Last night, I preached on Hebrews 12:1 and finishing the race. I showed a video clip about a young man named Ben Comen. He is an extraordinary high school kid who is the living definition of perseverance! Ben ran cross country even though he has severe Cerebral Palsy and has the stiff and painful joints that come with the disease. In our spiritual race, we may meet with obstacles but we press on and remember our Big Idea ~ I will finish the race!

Searching for Direction

It seems as though God may be making some changes in our lives once again. Have you ever had one of those seasons in your life where EVERYTHING seems to involve drama, decisions, tough choices and stirrings of your heart? Randy and I have come to the conclusion that we cannot limit God to using us just in Iowa. For the first time in my life, I am okay with the possibility of God moving us to some new place. I have always said I would be obedient to whatever God had for my life but I always had this little "but" that was said under my breath....but keep us in Iowa. I'm not packing a U-Haul just yet, maybe He wants us here...I'm just sayin'!

The things I DO know for sure are that I miss pastoring with all my being. Yes, I know God can and is using me as a nursery coordinator but it is not my passion. I DO know that God has a wonderful plan for me and Randy as it says in Jer. 29:11. I DO know that God will provide any and all resources that are needed. I DO know my kids are cool with whatever God has for us because they understand obedience and passion. I DO know I have the best husband in the world who says he'll go wherever God wants me to pastor! Thanks babe! I DO know that IF God chooses to move us, I am going to have get used to flying so I can visit all the wonderful friends we have living in Iowa and all across the US. I DO know that right now, I have perfect peace and I haven't felt that for awhile.

Our Beautiful Jordan

Saturday afternoon, Randy and I went to see our very special friend, Jordan, in her first dance recital. She was AMAZING!! We were so proud of her. Not only did she remember all her steps, she remembered to look out into the audience and smile, too. Sometimes I almost forget she has Down Syndrome because to us she is a typical seven year old little girl but she has to work harder than most and always excels! Not only was it her first recital, she had the added distraction of knowing her newest baby brother was going to be born any minute! My friend Angela gets the "Mother of the Year" award as she was determined not to miss Jordan's debut even though she had been in labor with number four all day long and was having contractions every four or five minutes!! She sat close to the exit and as soon as Jordan's group finished, they headed back home for the birth of Jace Eric Sustala! What a day for them! Jordan was the star of the show, by far the cutest ballerina and a new big sister. Wish I had a closer picture of her but take my word for it...she was adorable.

It's weekends like this one that keep me focused on why I am a children's pastor. I could easily get distracted with all the hard things that come with ministry but getting to be a part of the lives of the families you touch is priceless.

Party, Game and Dedication

We had a great weekend starting Friday night with one of "my kids" graduation party. I love to see all that the kids I have had the opportunity to minister accomplish through high school. We went to Monica's open house and got to catch up on all her news. She is going into nursing, which doesn't surprise me as she is a very compassionate person. She was awesome in Junior Bible Quiz...one of those kids that could memorize scripture as easily as some of us walk.

After the open house, we headed to an I-Cubs game courtesy of the Simpson College alum. It was a beautiful night for baseball. With our tickets, we each got $5 to spend at the concession stand! Nothing like a dog from the ball park! Good thing we had $10 towards our purchase...$16.50 for two brats and two diet cokes!! They also had fireworks that night.

Saturday at noon, we headed to Big Creek State Park. We had some more beautiful weather for a very important event. I had the honor of doing a baby dedication for one of my close friends, Jenn. We worked at the school together. She had her second son, Garrett, one year ago. It was great to see all her family again and get to be a part of such a personal celebration. I love to do baby dedications and it's even better when you are close to the family.

Family Ministry

I have had some great conversations with some folks lately about family ministry and family type services. I have always felt like if I am to be an effective children's pastor, I need to minister to the whole family and empower parents to be the spiritual leaders of their homes. I found a new children's ministry blog that had the best quote! Family events are awesome and can be done in a way to truly make a difference in living out their faith but events for just the sake of having them gets old fast.

Henry Zonio said this about family ministry, “We need to help families to allow God to change the entire story of their family rather than just giving them events or block quotes that they insert into their current story.”

That is a powerful statement. I want to minister in a way that helps people to live out their faith every day in practical, intentional, and evangelistic ways. I want to help them change their story!

Gotta Rant

I haven't had a good rant for awhile so here ya go. We just landed on Mars. Every time I hear about this kinda stuff, I get HOT. We spend millions and millions of dollars to travel in space and I personally think it's a huge waist! Oh, I know it's cool that we have the capability to do those things and that people are so incredibly smart to figure it all out but come on! There are tons of starving people, homeless children, people without health care and disasters all around us and we are spending money to scoop up some sand on Mars to see if humans have ever been there. I don't care! I know the Word says we will always have the poor but it just seems inhuman to spend all this money on space travel when we have kids in our city who will go to bed hungry tonight. I'm just sayin'.....

Family Mission Statement

I thought this was a great idea. I saw an article in Sunday's Des Moines Register that caught my eye. It talked about how more families are writing mission statements for their families including goals and areas they want to grow in and have accountability such as physical, mental, spiritual and emotional growth. I thought it was very cool, especially as your kids get to that pre-teen stage of life. If families talk about expectations, goals and their values, I think it is more likely to be a reality. A written mission statement can be displayed in a prominent place where you can have a daily reminder of where you are all heading in life. Kinda goes back to that empowering mantra that we talked about in parenting class..."In our family we......"