Hope Youth Group News

DECEMBER 2009

2009-12-23T07:58:00.007-05:00

OK, WELL...DECEMBER WAS SOOO FULL OF YOU GUYS BEING NICE, I IMAGINE SANTA'S SLEIGH IS GOING TO BE PRETTY FULL, THIS YEAR.THE GILRS HAD SOOO MUCH FUN MAKING CUPCAKES...WELL, YEAH -WE PLAYED A FEW GAMES, TOO, BUT THE CUPCAKES TAKE TIME TO BAKE AND COOL, YA KNOW!!!

AND GOODNESS, THE BIG FAMILY OF MI FOSTER KID'S PARTY...

THAT WAS A DAY I THINK WE ALL WILL NEVER FORGET. THANKS YOU GUYS FOR ALL YOU DID TO MAKE IT A SPECIAL DAY FOR ALL OF THOSE LITTLE CUTIES!

NOT SO SURE WHAT THESE GUYS ARE ACTUALLY DOING, BUT HEY THEY WERE THERE!!!

OK, NOELLE AND IZZY -WHO WAS THIS PARTY FOR...OH YEAH -YOU WERE TRYING OUT TOE GAME TO SEE IF THERE WERE ANY FLAWS, RIGHT???

KID'S CHRISTMAS PROGRAM!!! YOU HOMELESS DUDES WERE AWESOME!

BUT, YOU GIRLS ROCKED THE SHOW!

OK AND THEN, A BEST GAME EVER -ROAD STYLE!!! WAY TO GO RACHEL'S TEAM! YOU WERE THE GRAND WINNERS. BUT SINCE MR. STEVE HAD MY CAMERA THIS IS ALL I HAVE -0SEND ME YOUR SHOTS AND I WILL ADD THEM!

Are You a Vampire?

2009-11-01T21:18:00.004-05:00

1.) Are you afraid of Mirrors? Well, if you are be sure to remember 1 John 3:1 says that you are children of God -and that's a very cool thing. He created you and adores you and always thinks you are beautiful and special no matter what your hair looks like.

2.) Are you freaked out by light? John 8:12 Jesus is the light of the world and He helps make things clear - He brings to light our weaknesses and helps us make them right.

3.) Are you afraid of the cross? Romans 5:6-8 reminds us that the cross is a HUGE symbol of God's amazing Love for us. Nothing to run from -RUN TO THE CROSS. It's a very good thing.

There you have it -and the BEST EVER GAME...well bummer for you if you missed it, right?

Say Happy BIRTHDAY TO HANNAH THIS WEEK and everyone who has Tuesday off -enjoy sleeping in! See ya back on WEDNESDAY for more Spiritual Gifts...and chips.

OH yeah -and thank you to the WILLIAMS for the yummy snacks, tonight. Wahoo!

Sarah was RIGHT!!!!

2009-10-27T10:42:00.009-04:00

Totally!

I thought," It hasn't been that long, right?" But it's been over a month since I updated this thing. Soooo SORRY!!!

So, what have we all been doing since Sept. 16?

The Youth Service -which got Rave Reviews! Thanks to all who put their heart and soul into it.

The FUN FEST...

OK, HE WAS HAPPY WHEN I WAS DONE, I THINK.

Here is Nathan putting his all into it -way to go!

And Seth, well...he's there helping...kinda...

And Eden...looks like she is sleeping and will fall off the chair any minute!!! But she worked hard, I am sure of it.

(Pretty sure...)

Now, Don B -he worked really hard that day and the next -I was crackin' up. Maurekha, too!

BEST GAME EVER? WELL JESSE'S TEAM THOUGHT SO.

NOT SO MUCH NATHAN'S TEAM...

THE UN-HAY, HAY RIDE!

WITH A SCARY CHARGING BULL, SERIOUSLY! I MEAN IT -ASK ANYONE!!!

GREG HAD RIDDLES FOR US ALL EVENING AND ONLY A FEW SMART ONES WERE ABLE TO HACK INTO HIS MASSIVE BRAIN AND FIGURE THEM OUT. (YEAH I WOULD NOT BE ONE OF THEM.)

LEXI AND TAYLOR SHOWED THE BOYS WHO'S GOT IT ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD!

AND THERE WAS A LITTLE CREATIVE APPLE COMPETITION...

SOME OF THEM TOOK THIS MORE SERIOUSLY THAN OTHERS...

SEE WHAT I MEAN?

THIS TOTEM POLE WAS SOOO COOL AND IT BURNED NICELY, TOO.

SO, THAT'S IT -THAT'S WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO FOR THE PAST 30 + DAYS. MORE ACTION TO COME IN THE NEXT.

WED. NIGHTS -SPIRITUAL GIFTS

THIS WED NIGHT SCARF MAKING FOR FOSTER KIDS/PRAYER TIME

SUNDAY THE 1ST IS BACK TO 6-8:15PM.

SATURDAY THE 7TH AIR-SOFT WARS 11-4 AND SHOPPING FOR THE GIRLS SAME TIME...

SUNDAY THE 15TH IS AN OUTREACH DAY -LUNCH AND TO THE WAREHOUSE TO HELP OUT

AND THEN IN DEC -CHRISTMAS PARTY FOR FOSTER KIDS AND OUR VERY OWN BEST EVER CHRISTMAS PARTY ON SUNDAY THE 20TH, (I THINK).

SO STAY TUNED!

Wed. Night the 16th!

2009-09-16T16:33:00.005-04:00

TONIGHT...BE THERE!!

BAND PRACTICE

SKIT REHEARSAL -yeah, I know you aren't in it yet -but you'll wanna be -so come out tonight.

PRESENTATION PLANNING -yeah, I know you aren't presenting -but you'll want to -so come out tonight.

SIGN, PROP MAKING -yeah -I know you aren't an artist -but you wanna be -so come out tonight.

SANCK EATER - OK you are all snack eaters -so come on out tonight and see if you can give us a hand. OK?

All-Nighter!

2009-09-16T13:42:00.007-04:00

Kinda hard to imagine, I guess, but we played Murder in the Church all night long...save a few games of Hide and Seek, and Hide and Go Hide. I tried to explain to a few friends and it really sounds very bad that a bunch of church kids spend hours running all around their darkened church pretenting to kill one another. So NOT Ten-Commandments-ish, ya know?

Who me???

OH NO!!!

Sarah died a couple of times, but Amanda and Courtney by far died the most!

Not all deaths were photographed to protect the innocent.

Joe was the killer - finally... he'd been interviewing for the position all night long.

At one point -about 4am or so -everyone started to get weary.

OK, so not everyone -we played 4 Square, 4 Square Ping Pong, Pencils (which is a more daring version of the popular Spoons Game) and regular -or not so regular Ping Pong.

Love the "Don't take my picture or I'll kill you for real." look. Nice.

He's not dead -just snoozing at about 6am.

Them too -

Seth, too...

Service Projects -So much fun! Jordan, Meghan D., Emily, Hannah and Eden went to Light House Ministries to help stock shelves of food for the needy in our area.

Mr. Steve, Victoria, Travis & Noah visited Mrs. Craig at the Towers and took back over 400 pop cans and bottles.

All the while Mrs. Cindy, Sarah, Noelle, Nathan, Isaiah, Courtney & Amanda swept the church parking lot of about 5 large bags of pine needles. Who knew it was such a mess??

And since the church group had the camera -they get all the press. But all worked pretty hard that morning.

Grand Haven Adventures 09

2009-09-02T10:28:00.015-04:00

Our Fearless Leader and his jerky & Arnold. Nice way to start a trip.

Our Fearless and ever cheerful co-pilot for the church van -Melanie.

OK, she was NOT supposed to have one of those, you guys!!!

Cute passengers...

More cute passengers...

Roomies -Rm. 217

Roomies -Rm. 218

Roomies -Rm. 214

and Roomies -Rm 216

The Pool...well it was wet and warm and we made it fun with Best Ever Pool Games with only a few Noodles and a Beach Ball that by the way, never saw the beach all weekend. Oh well...

Not the smartest game ever -but it was fun until we got hit in the face or head...

This was the ever popular how many times can you hit the beach ball without letting it drop in the pool, game. A fav of the boys...they played it what seemed hours on end.

Oh and there was the Hope Girls Syncronized Swim Team lead by Melanie...

The audience...

Noodle Competition

Peppino's!

As part of the Mystery Activity we hopped over to Peppinos in Coopersville right across from a cool looking train and kitty-corner from an old factory. Mr. Peppino was great -he even gave us FREE dessert -these yummy, warm little cinnamony fried dough balls drizzled with frosting. Honestly!!!

Yah -Aaron plans to open his very own Peppino's at 21 and Gratiot soon -we'll keep you posted.

Yah -and while Aaron and Travis finished up the little dough balls -Syd was practicint her straw blowing techniques. She's quite good! Really.

Then, off to the World's largest Musical Fountain! It played the Bohemian Rapsody -a Fav of Melanie...and probably Brad, too.

And speaking of Brad -we went to this really cute little Dairy Creme and Melaine just had to try "Brad's Special" made of icecream, hot fudge, and cookie dough with gobs of whipped cream and a cherry on top. It soon became her favorite, so we thought it only fitting to ask if Melanie could meet Bradley. Come to find out -he's a nice young Christian man (only 24) who is serving in the armed forces in Tampa as a Piolot (and Melanie likes to sky dive...see the connection?)and get this -he loves Jesus!!! (I asked, of course.) Seems like a match made in heaven? So, stay tuned...

And just look at the cool cotton candy twist they have there!

Then, there was another wonderful little find -SAM's!!!

We all ate some really amazing and fun food there -like this Walking Taco demonstrated here, by Jordan.

Yes, it really is that Yellow!!! in there -it's cheery -not angry, though.

And though it was quite breezy and chilly -some sat outside and could still feel the warmth of those yellow walls. Really.

Oh and we ran around town a bit. Literally.

And through the twirly doors...

And that's when it came to Stephen and I -let's play a best ever game right here in downtown Grand Haven. So, we gave three groups $5 each to try to buy the best possible something in 1 hour. And off they went...

Nice...

See that little staircase in the back? We went up there and wanted to go out on this little balcony -for a photo but it freaked everyone but Aaron and Travis out because it was a bit unstable.

Oh and check out this great store?

Illegal use of the cell phone -detected at the bottom right corner by...???

Oooh don't buy any patchouli -no matter what you do or what Lexi tells you...at least our group recommends you stay away from the insense...

But Aaron and Travis got 10 sticks for $2 -which came in handy after lunch at Sam's!

Not your average drug store!!!

OK so when the boys went to the Ball Game that got rained out -but they ate a really huge 5th/3rd Burger for entertainment with 5000 cal and 300 g of fat...actually Aaron & Jay split it...anyway -the girls do what is best on a rainy cold day -we went to the Mall.

Oops -where'd he come from?

Skunk BackPack -handy if you wanna people to stay away from you at school or at the park...

And while we were there we tried to moral-ize the Hollister. They were sporting "forms" with indecent exposure and when we tried to help hide the plastic flesh, we were repremended. So, later, we sent new recruits to help cover the little lady and they were successful. Our third batch of spies reported all was well and the "forms" were adequately covered.

Nice job, girls. Ao, mission accomplished, we headed back to the hotel and learned a thing or two about church vans and torrential rain -you gotta let the guy with the key go first -and preferably without a camera.

And the guys played cards until joining our "leader" game -and all was well.

We packed up and headed off to the Journey Church Sunday morning...but first found this smoldering in our room...Aaaaron...Traaaavis...good thing the people before us tied a bag around the smoke detector...wonder why?

Ok, so we get to this super modern, contemporary church and they have screens up behind the band like this. Whatcha think? It counts down...love it -it would keep Joe Delisle and Bob Vanscoy from yellin' at me every Sunday morning.

And they have ear plugs in a dispenser right outside the door -just in case. How's that???

All in all it was a really great weekend. We did not play best ever games at the beach as planned, we did not walk out to the light house, or go on a hike. The guys did not get to watch a minor league game...but we made memories, did things just outside ourcomfort zone -I ate a walking taco -sitting down! and even crossed some things off our bucket lists.

Oh and the ride home -outstanding...mini-van won the overpasses and truck honking competition, church van won overall speed of the trip -course look who was driving.

Not bad, we'd say. Loved it, actually...hope those of you who braved the weather with us did as well.

A HUGE thank you to Melanie, Jay and Alyson. They are soooo cool.

BYBS - Johnson's & Padgett's

2009-08-20T07:54:00.007-04:00

The Johnson BYBS was a pretty mellow one on a warm sunny day. There was the usual yummy food prepared by Pastor George on the grill -and to welcome us there was this mysterious sighting on the ceiling in Mrs. Michelle's kitchen...

Josie and Mr. Steve whopped Nathan and Brandon, I'm pretty sure at a game of pool.

And the girls just tried to keep the ping-pong ball on the table...

And there was little Keegan...

He had an especially good time...

It looks like some type of ceremonial first ice cream dispensation with those crosses in the background and the good minister feeding the little lamb...
Oh and after a good re-hash of the super truths we all learned and shared at VBS that week- Pastor George took some of you daring souls on a little BIKE RIDE...

Wahoo!!!!

Seriously -how fun is that? What other BYBS host can say they did that???

And then after a week off due to Mr. Steve & Mrs. Cindy's Vacation to Glen Lake during which the promised wi-fi connection fell through...

We commenced at the PADGETT'S...

After some most delicious SUBS and a Chocolate-y Fluffy dessert -(The PINK one was the BEST!) we hung out around God's Word for a bit and pondered this advice:

"DON'T MISS THE NOW FOR THE LATER."

So many times we are either excited about something coming up or dreading something and so we focus so much on getting to that big day or getting past it that we miss the journey and all the great things God does along the way. Take the story of David & Goliath, for example. David could have flung a stone at Goliath's head as soon as he realized the problem. But he tried on the armour, talked to the king and the soldiers and all of that -then of course that gave Goliath more time to holler -and finally the big climax...and the giant came tumbling down, part. So cool. But all that other stuff happened along the way and it's all part of God working. So, keep your eyes open -don't miss the NOW.

Then, we went outside on that lovely 90* day to have a little water balloon fun and it started out pretty peaceful. We all agreed the little kids (Austin, Ethan, Seth and Ethan) should be our targets...well, they didn't exactly agree -but we did. And all seemed to be going quite well.

Victoria took pride in each balloon she created...

Every now and again a stray balloon would just fly into someone...like this one that almost hit Jesse on the back of the leg.

But for the most part -Ethan and Seth took the brunt of our games.

Until...Joe and Lexi had a little pre-marital spat...

And when Lexi took the really bad tumble we all could see coming and more than just her pretty chartreuse cast hit the pavement...well, Joe was feeling pretty bad. Lexi was feeling worse...and we all took it out on Joe.

Poor guy...he left for work a little dejected and with a very wet bottom!

Lexi, on the other hand spent the rest of her day sucking down Advil and digging pavement out of her wounded knee and elbow! Yikes...wonder what the doctor said on Wed???

Mr. Steve & Mrs. Cindy are on VACATION!!!

2009-08-07T23:15:00.004-04:00

OK -so NO BYBS this Sunday -but watch the blog -Cindy will update with BYBS photos at the Johnson's last week while sitting leisurely at a cottage up north. And if you are really lucky -you can catch a few artsy shots of our trip -there is supposed to be a nice thunderstorm or two!!! Have a great week!!!

Barrymores VBS 09

2009-08-07T22:28:00.007-04:00

The waiting...actually we went on a great day and had very little wait for each ride.

The Driving...

The Relaxing...

Um...should he be soooo relaxed while driving?

The Splashing...

And the Injuries...well ya know how it goes...make a bee mad -it stings ya.

And make a guy like Nathan mad and watch out for nearby signs...

The Crashing...

Croc Dock Slip-n-Slide

2009-08-07T22:03:00.006-04:00

Ooooh the soap in the eyes with glasses on thing!

Almost caught that football...

OH YEAH -the passover meal -that was very interesting...

All week we learned a lot about who God is and how HE works -pretty cool.

VBS!!! 09 Crocodile Dock...

2009-07-29T22:24:00.010-04:00

Day 1 -Overcoming Pyrophobia! Terry Britton actually extinguished the match with his mouth -nobody else did -we did not have permission slips for that...

Balloon -Sit on Your Butt -Soccer.

Head Light and Tail Light Project #1 A very popular one according to the VBS worker feedback!

Service Project #1

Crazy Hat Day!

Best Family Hat Day Participants -the Muchortows!

Worship time...

Hat Day! Seth's friends Mallay & Veronica sported some cool hats!

Conquering Hemophobia...it was so nice of the Red Cross to let us use so many pints...

Service Project #2 Cleaning the Nursery

Conquering Craft-a-phobia?

Whacky Hair Day!

Crazy Hair Day Girls!

Conquering Dis-trust-a-phobia.

Door Cleaning -Service Project #3

More tomorrow!!! Slip N- Slide Day!

Christmas in July @ Comerica Park

2009-07-29T19:48:00.004-04:00

Take me out to the Ball Game...with a twist.

Yes, a Merry Twist!

It was Christmas in July and we sang our voices hoarse to help raise funds for the Salvation Army.

Check out the Christmas cheer ...

Another good deed by the HOPE youth group!

Delisles BYBS 09

2009-07-29T19:16:00.003-04:00

What can I say? The Delisles are cool people and even though Jake was sick to death -they hosted our Back Yard Bible Study.

Honestly, even their dogs are cool!

Michigan's Adventure!

2009-07-15T20:04:00.009-04:00

The van ride there and back was an adventure in itself. Mrs. Cindy with 14 girls and MR. Stevie with 3 guys ( not pictured...not one of them brought a camera...not practical, I guess).

We stayed connected with the Walkie-Talkie...

Nice, Sarah -I felt like that most of the ride home...Yes, I am gritting my teeth. That big ol' van is a beast.

Adorable girls, I must say...

OK so we get there and Mrs. Cindy's weather predictions and research payed off!! A perfect day! I mean, just look at it!

Was a little nervous way up there -but it was the first ride, after all...others chose to ride more daring apparatuses such as the cork screw!

Yet others rode the park benches...in style, may I add! Wahooooo!!!

Adorable...again!!!

The level 4 Log Ride...

They'll be scared soon, just look...

Sarah & Felicia...ahhhhh!

This one was only a level 3 -but makes people like Mr. Steve a little wobbly upon exit.

Go GIRLS!

While most were at the WATER PARK -where this camera dare not go, Hannah, Victoria, Cindy and Rose set off for a lovely Swan Rowing Competition. Hannah and Victoria -though in the rear for most of the race came up WINNERS in the end with Hannah's superb parking navigation skills! Honestly...we were so close and then we lost it in the parking...

Who is Rose -you may ask??? Mrs. Cindy was asked for a ride and she obliged...why not? Jesus wouldda given her one.

Jo Jo, Amanda (in the goggles) and Hannah went out to check the water temp...

MMM...so refreshing!

California Girl?? Oops, no Texas Girl... First to return!

Two of the first to arrive! Good job, Amanda and Sydney! Three Musketeers all day -never really saw them...but word has it they had a great day!

Amanda, Eden & Jo Jo...a little late!

More late...

Jordan and Laura were next but somehow managed to stay outta the photographer's sight.

Um, yeah -7 minutes late...but hey if 20 kids are only 7 minutes late -I guess it's not that bad.

Now the ride home...That was BAD!

Co-pilot -OUT like a light.

The rest were KOOKIE -and after the little "potty break" gone wild...it got more than Kookie -they were wakin' up the neighbors!

Everything from the Hannah Montana song to Phineas & Ferb -you name it they sang it -slightly off key (Sorry Sarah) and very loudly!

The good news, Mrs. Cindy and Mr. Steve did NOT fall asleep -(they chose to broadcast all of their entertainment on the Walkie so Stephen and the guys would not feel left out.)

OH, yeah and they took all these photos with my camera. Any one with others to share -e-mail them to Mrs. Cindy.

See what I mean? All in all a really great day!

Yates & Banana Bread

2009-07-15T16:44:00.007-04:00

Yeah, the Bible Study was more riveting than this picture suggests. We talked about the 10Commandments and how they fit into today's morality (or lack thereof).

The ICE CREAM was as good as last time -so good that GRANT had to try three different things! Hopefully his football coach doesn't check out this site...not probably the best diet for his Tournament in Ohio this weekend.

Some of us were brave enough to go on a walk along the river. A dozen or so mosquito bites later and we were back. This time they decided to try out the river...like wade across it...

(Some did not go for a walk...)

Geenel lost her flip flop...Victoria recovered it... and all was well, pretty much.

Bet Adam Muchortow would know if these are edible...

All in all -a good day!

OH -Izzy and I want to be photographers when we grow up -so here are a few shots we took...

And as for the Banana Bread War -well Sarah won the last BATTLE -but it's NOT over!!! ( Notice it gets very little press.)

Banana Bread & Flyer Night Tonight

2009-07-08T08:58:00.004-04:00

BANANA BREAD WARS RETRUNS TO HOPE...TONIGHT SARAH WILLIAMS, CINDY EICHHORST AND... YOU??? ARE GOING TO BAKE THEIR BEST EVER LOAVES FOR YOU TO EAT. THEN, YOU WILL CAST YOUR VERY OFFICIAL VOTE AND WE WILL HAVE A WINNER!!!

Also, we are going to head out to the nearby neighborhoods and put door hangers on the door inviting all the kids to our VBS...

WHICH YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS! ALL TEENS GOING INTO 7, 8 AND 9TH GRADES TOTALLY WANT TO BE AT HOPE'S VBS. AND ALL TEENS GOING INTO 10, 11 AND 12TH GRADES WANT TO HELP OUT THE LITTLE ONES AND BE A GUIDE.

Oh and there were MOSQUITOES!!!

2009-07-01T16:33:00.007-04:00

Hey -we had fun last week at Farmstead Park.

It was HOT...it was sweaty...

and there were MOSQUITOES!!!

CHECK IT OUT...

Broom Ball Tonight!!!

2009-07-01T16:21:00.006-04:00

BROOMBALL TONIGHT!!!

Bring your own broom,

Bring a great attitude,

Bring $2 for a Slurpee,

Bring your friends and bring a BIBLE! It is Bible Study, after all!!!

Park Night Tonight!!!

2009-06-24T08:03:00.005-04:00

YES, IT'S GONNA BE HOT

YES, THERE WILL BE DROVES OF MOSQUITOES

YES, YOU WILL SWEAT & STINK

YES, YOU WILL LOVE IT AND BEG US TO STAY!!!

TONIGHT @ FARMSTEAD PARK...6:30PM-8:30PM AT THE PARK...6-9PM @ HOPE IF YOU NEED A RIDE. BRING DRINKS, WATER GUNS, AND TREATS IF YOU FEEL LIKE IT.

SEE YOU THERE!

What's New?

2009-06-10T16:27:00.003-04:00

Well...it's our last "normal" WED night Bible Study and we are supposed to be wrapping up the Study "WHAT ON EARTH ARE WE HERE FOR?"

ICE CREAM for all who attend!

I don't mean we are all here for ice cream -but it sure is a perk!

See ya tonight and hey...read your e-mail -lots goin' on.

CONGRATULATIONS!!! CLASS OF '09

2009-06-01T10:45:00.007-04:00

Can you believe it??? 5 of the HOPE group is moving on to the Big World. We'll miss you!!!

Everybody be sure to post a comment about why you'll miss them, OK? Maybe a thank you for who they are and what you've enjoyed about each of them.

SATURDAY NIGHT May 16 AT THE COLES

2009-05-14T17:18:00.006-04:00

THE VOTES ARE IN!!!

ULTIMATE FRISBEE AND CJ BARRYMORE'S TIED WITH MOVIE NIGHT AT MEG'S...

So, since it's about $4-6/ride at Barrymore's and it's supposed to storm, we decided to PLAY ULTIMATE FRISBEE AT THE COLE'S AND EAT SNACKS, WATCH A MOVIE AND TAKE A DIP IN THE HOT TUB .

WHAT TO BRING???

A SNACK, A 2 LTR

...YOUR SWIM SUIT AND TOWEL

AND A FAV MOVIE...

anybody see Alex Rider -Storm Breaker??? Teen James Bond...

OH and a frisbee and a friend!

Anyway...SATURDAY, MAY 16 -THIS SATURDAY!!!

TIME 6-9PM AT THE COLE'S...E-MAIL ME BY MIDNIGHT (THURSDAY NIGHT) SO WE CAN PREPARE, OK?

VOTE!!!

2009-05-11T13:50:00.002-04:00

DID YOU ALL REMEMBER TO VOTE AFTER SUNDAY SCHOOL...CHURCH? LAST CHANCE THIS WED NIGHT TO PUT IN YOUR VOTE FOR THE YOUTH ACTIVITY SCHEDULED FOR THIS SATURDAY NIGHT, MAY 16 FROM 6-9PM...UNLESS OF COURSE SOMEONE VOTES WE START AT 3PM. EITHER WAY YOU NEED TO

VOTE!!!!

OK, so the BOYs think they're BETTER...

2009-05-11T11:45:00.007-04:00

NICE...

Well it started out as a normal night at VP with the usual chatting and yummy food, this week brought to us by Syd and her mom -mmmmm!!!

The Girls hanging out and the boys expounding on all sorts of important topics, I am sure.

The BOYS think they are BETTER than we are...We know, we know and that's OK with us. Boys may be bigger and better at some things -but maybe we should consider continuing the challenge. What about a contest that requires SMARTS? or Baking Skills or Writing? Math? Hmmm...or grace and agility? Organization?

The boys made a weird -but parachute like contraption which ended up being quite good in the end. The girlsshoved their egg into the core of a TP roll and provided a lot of cush for the initial drop. But as you can see in the video and imagine even if you were not there, NO Contraption can stand up to a HURL into the air by TIM!

Here are the photos and really funny video of the GENDER WARS outcome!

HUMAN FOOSBALL!!!

YEAH...could not beat TIM at that either...but the girls lead by Lisa came pretty close!

GENDER WARS TONIGHT!!!

2009-05-03T14:26:00.002-04:00

It's the final night of our Guys/Girls Small Groups and we thought we'd go out with a bang and have Gender Wars. Plan on several "Best Ever" Games to see who really is BETTER -Guys or Girls.

Actually we all already know...

See ya tonight!!!

LOST & FOUND Remembered

2009-04-28T10:44:00.005-04:00

First -7 Eleven stop -a must...it was Spring Break and sunny and warm even!

Of course with Nathan in the group, CARDS were a must. We played Eucher, some Snake Slapping Game, and all sorts of versions of WAR!
Thankfully, they provided some really good signs to help Mr. Steve find the way!

We got there kinda early to get good seats...not a problem, exactly...but we had time to hang out...literally!

OOOH and they had a labrynth! We were told about it and ran outside right away to see it. (Thinking it is a real underground labrynth.) NOT! Oh well, it was fun playing Labyrinth Tag.

And light saber fights...

The church was kinda triangular -actually it was very triangular -ask John.

It was pretty cool, though. They bounced around beach balls during the opening band's set. FUN! Beach balls in a church.

Then -LOST & FOUND! They were very funny. We all laughed a lot and wished you all could be there.

Peeps Night WED the 15th!

2009-04-13T18:02:00.003-04:00

Yep you read it correctly! It's peeps night at youth group. This WED NIGHT -the 15Th!

So, bring your favorite peeps and any peeps you can con into coming. It will be fun and you may just learn something! REALLY!

See you Wednesday, April the 15Th with your peeps and some of your favorite peeps. Any one see the red ones? They've gotta be healthy!

LOST -n- FOUND

2009-04-13T12:54:00.003-04:00

This Saturday -like 3 or 4pm
Drive to Chelsea, MI
Eat Dinner somewhere
Go to a totally BEST EVER Concert/ Comedy Show
Return to Hope by 11ish.

Anybody in? $10 tickets + $$ for dinner...

Need to know by Wed! Think quick.

Check out http://www.speedwood.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pc4RrHaH5uI

You Are Great!!!

2009-04-09T13:17:00.009-04:00

You are -really -I mean it!!! I know, I know -I'm always bugging you to "UNPLUG!!!" and to "LISTEN" and to "FOCUS!!!" But you guys really are great.

Just in the past month or so -

you have raised over $1500.00 for World Vision

you have cleaned yards for senior citizens

you have cleaned the church grounds

you have prepared and delivered meals to seniors

you have prepared and sent cookies to a missionary

you have cared for, taught, helped and played games with Hope's kids

You have cared for other church's kids, too

have taught the Easter story through last night's stations to Hope's kids

you made cards for the seniors

and sent them to them!

you raised $ for Easter basket treats for poor kids and...

put 88 baskets together and delivered them

you practice for worship

and lead worship! (You Rock, by the way!)

you ...hmmm...I might be missing something. You have been up to a lot of really great things and we are really proud of you and THANKFUL to all of you who are stepping up.

Have a fun Easter Break and come WED. Night for some relaxation and fun...I mean -It is break!

Anyway, THANK YOU! FROM Mr. Steve and I - we think you are GREAT!!! And we love you all.

TONIGHT!!!

2009-04-08T09:20:00.002-04:00

6:45pm tonight -be there. The TRANSFORMATION STATIONS OF JESUS' PASSION - we hope will change your heart and the hearts of our entire congregation.

So come prepared to open our heart to JESUS - it's His week.

Wednesday Night...

2009-04-07T00:07:00.002-04:00

It's gonna be really cool. An interactive Event -Transformation Stations of Jesus' Passion. Don't miss, even if you have homework, even if you feel crappy -even if you think we all hate you (which is way off) -just come. Worship the Savior of the WORLD in a different kind of way. There will be 7 Stations for you to visit, pray at, think about, leave something at or take something away from so that you can really get your focus on the CROSS and what JESUS did for your sorry soul and mine.

So, be at church at 6:45pm this WED NIGHT!!! -you guys will be going through the Stations first and the rest of the church after you. The Clubbers will need you to walk them through and the adults will need your prayers as they go through the stations. They aren't as open to new stuff -so we will be praying they get something really great out of it.

It's HOLY WEEK -Jesus did a lot for you this week many years ago -come celebrate that -think about it, worship HIM for it..make a little time...

More Famine Thoughts...

2009-04-06T23:17:00.005-04:00

OK everyone -these are the last ones -took me all evening -but they are fun to listen to, and a good reminder of why we do anything...for others!!! Because it is as if we are doing those things for Jesus himself!

30 HOUR FAMINE

2009-04-06T13:57:00.012-04:00

Surprise, Brandon!!!

We celebrated the end of a tough year for Brandon with family and friends at HIS ROCK! Super cool place to hang out. It was our "Mystery Activity" before the 30 Hr Famine began. We sang, ate and danced until about 10pm and then headed to the Johnson and Eichhorst homes for the night...

SLEEP OVER...then the tough part began for us all.

The GUYS HARD AT WORK AT HOPE, MRS. Gottschling's, and the Dundas home.

Cards for the shut-ins and missionaries...

OUR GUY CHEFS!

AND GIRL CHEFS...

They were awesome -they even cut chicken without gloves! The girls and 3 guys made chicken pot pies, corn bread, salads and cookies for three seniors and their families while fasting. That was tough -especially when we were baking them. Aw man...

CHICKEN POT PIES...

Paper people...

More Paper People...

Little People Chain - Each paper person represented ten little children who die of hunger related problems each day. We carried it through the congregation that Sunday to make our case for the HUNGRY. It helped us raise about $250 more for the cause!

The end of the famine -

THE GRAND FINALE!!! PANCAKE BREAKFAST MADE BY PASTOR GEORGE, MICHELLE AND THE SCHIENKES!!! THANK YOU parents for all the yummy food this day and all our days. WE ARE BLESSED!

Honestly, we are so blessed -here are your thoughts about the whole ordeal...

Decisions...& other stuff I just found out about...

2009-04-01T15:01:00.004-04:00

Yep that's the title of tonight's Jr. and Sr. High Lesson. We will be splitting up to talk out some tough scenarios -so don't miss! And we have to sign our Easter Cards for the Shut-ins and missionaries.

AND THIS JUST IN -MR STEVE MIGHT HAVE TO HELP IN TREE CLIMBERS TONIGHT UNLESS WE CAN GET SOMEONE TO FILL IN FOR ERIC G.-SO I WILL HAVE YOU ALL -BUT I CAN DIVIDE YOU INTO GROUPS AND WE CAN GET THROUGH THE DISCUSSION TOPICS THAT WAY -ok? WE'LL SEE...AHHHH...

Also, we are gearing up for Palm Sunday Night when the Youth will host the children of 4 churches during this combined Evening Service. So, come out tonight to choose your place and what you'd like to help out with. OK?

And, get ready for a totally cool WED night Youth where we visit the
7 Transformation Stations of Jesus' Passion.

It's gonna be good...

And tomorrow check the blog for all the cool FAMINE Photos! I'll put them on with the little VIDEOS I was unable to use for Sunday's Service. You guys did a great job, by the way! See ya tonight!

Reminders...

2009-03-24T13:00:00.011-04:00

Get your calendars or agendas out -here's the scoop...

Tomorrow night -7-8:15pm come prepared to make EASTER BASKETS

for Lighthouse Ministries.

_______________________________________

FRIDAY 6PM AT HOPE -30 HOUR FAMINE

How's the collection going? Are you ready?

____________________________________________

SATURDAY -Service/Projects

_________________________________________

SUNDAY 8:30AM @ HOPE Pancake Breakfast

(no Vantage Point Sunday Night)

____________________________________________________

WED April 1 -Prep for Palm Sunday Night Children's Program

We will be hosting 3 churches for a Palm Sunday Service in the evening and we are going to be in charge of the kids -K-2, I think. So, we'll need a team of you guys ready to play games with them, a team ready to play and sing music with them, a team to help with the "lesson/story time" and a team to possibly do a simple craft with them. Then when it's over -they'll feed us all!

SUNDAY NIGHT APRIL 5 -Children's Program lead by us 6-8pm

30 Hour Famine

2009-03-23T15:05:00.006-04:00

Here is the List of those I have signed up to be at the Famine Friday night:

Megan Cole
Travis
Sarah
Nick
Noelle
Nathan
Victoria
Tim
Alexandra
Isaiah
Hannah
Brandon
Eden
Grant
Grant's Friend, Evan
Amanda
Greg
Jordan
Geenel
Isabel
Aaron
Sydney
Trevor -late

I also think Aaron is in and maybe Julia? But, Mark, Megan D., Laura, Syd, Jessica, Jenna, Chris K.,Taylor and Leah -what about you guys? Did I miss someone? A few of you have already let me know you are working or have sports and we will miss you. Everyone else -please let us know.

Here is the EVENT by hour (it's not set in stone, but a pretty good ballpark):

FRIDAY
6-10pm Mystery Activity
10-11pm Prayer Walk
11-1am Games & Hang-out
1-8am SLEEP -guys at the Johnsons and girls at the Eichhorsts
SATURDAY
8-11am Service Projects
Visitation to Shut-ins -Idelle Taylor, Erna Reif and Velma Craig/Towers
Yard work at HOPE and the Dundas, Gottschling home...
(Parents/adults willing to help us drive to the locations -please let us know.)
11:30am Grocery Shopping for Lighthouse Food Bank
1pm Return to HOPE
Poster/Visual Presentation for Sunday's Service
Letters to our Missionaries
"Confessional"
3-4pm PARENTS PLEASE PICK UP YOUR TEENS and be extra patient with them - they'll be pretty hungry.
(Remember no food or technology -IPODS, Game Systems, Cell Phones etc. Yes, you can shower -goodness we don't want you all stinky!)
SUNDAY
8:30am Breakfast at HOPE
9:45 Sunday School
11am Morning Worship and Testimony/Presentation (we hope)
NO Vantage Point Sunday Night 3/29 -Do your homework -get back in your groove. Reflect on the weekend and what you learned and accomplished!

PS We realize not all of you are able to fast -please join us and eat discretely. You can fast from Tech-stuff, OK?

What's Going On?

2009-03-21T15:53:00.006-04:00

You may be wondering. I mean, over a week since the last blog post -that's pretty lame -if people even still say that. Anyway, since the big dramatic presentation on Wed. night the 11Th which I have no evidence of...and the Golladay Holliday. (The Band was GREAT, by the way!)

..and then me working late and you guys hashing out hot topics with Mr. Steve -well -I guess, I have only words to post, which is so unlike me. (Maybe because I rarely enjoy a book without at least a photo/illustration or two per chapter.)

Anyway, this is a pretty big week for you guys -the 30 HOUR FAMINE is Friday night through Sunday morning. Should be fun but a little different than we had planned. Here's why...

We cannot stay the night at the church. So, FRIDAY after our Mystery Adventure to kick off the famine -we'll most likely be splitting up guys/ girls at separate houses to play games and sleep. Then, SATURDAY -we'll regroup and go do some service projects around town. Then, we'll head home to sleep and fast until our Breakfast together on SUNDAY morning. WOW!

But before all of that...you guys have another great lesson "Don't Pass the Buck, Step Up!" this Sunday Night at Vantage Point.

The girls also have another great lesson called "The Big Deal..." You've gotta come out to meet with your small group about this one. Don't miss it -and for Caitlin's group -well who knows what she'll do this week...

And it's highest time for a new Best Game Ever, of course. And the Johnson's are on for Snack -so there you have it.

OH and an update on Brandon's last 3 TESTS -A-OK! Wahoo Brandon. We are so glad it's OVER for you.

Then WEDNESDAY -is Easter Basket Packing Night during Youth Group. So, come prepared to pack all of the goodies we purchased as well as those from the rest of the church. We'll need a lot of helpers for this.

So, see -it's gonna be a great week and we are looking forward to spending most of it with you!

It's the Lesson you've been waiting for...

2009-03-10T10:43:00.002-04:00

...your whole, entire life! Don't miss this WED NIGHT, 7pm at HOPE! Mr. Steve and Mrs. Cindy will dazzle you with Oscar Award Winning Performances and costume changes you'll have to see to believe! Music by White Heart, Robert Pierre, and more!

And the bonus...you just may learn something about yourself and about being a REAL Christian!

DOLLAR STORE TONIGHT!

2009-03-08T14:36:00.004-04:00

Bring your $2 and plan on giving it to the girls to shop with or come along, yourself to the near-by $$ Store. We will be purchasing little things for the Easter Baskets for kids in need.OK THAT'S ALL -OH AND GOOD LESSONS PLANNED AND SORRY...BUT NO BEST EVER GAME...BECAUSE WE'LL BE BEST EVER SHOPPING!

Shan in Japan writes...& Easter Baskets

2009-03-02T19:33:00.003-05:00

Check this out, everyone -they got to her in like 5 days!!!

"My evening is finishing with a lovely gift from a wonderful youth group in Michigan... peanut butter cookies and Reese's! Thank you!"

Shan mentioned us on her blog - www.shanaweena.blogspot.com - check it out!!!! Way to go everyone!

Next big project -Easter Baskets. Bring $ for the Dollar Store so we can shop. Guys that means you, too -we'd love to spend your money -it will get you ready for real life...

See you all on WED!

BEST EVER...

2009-02-24T15:54:00.007-05:00

BEST EVER SNACK...

Best Peanut Butter Game Pride Ever!

Not quite so proud...

Nice!

BEST FORM...

BEST BALANCE...

BEST EVER PB COOKIE MAKING TECHNIQUE

NOT THE BEST EVER ANYTHING...

PERFECT FORM AGAIN...

AND AGAIN...

BEST SKINNY JEANS OF THE NIGHT BY FAR...

THE RUNNERS UP...

AND...sounds like the guys had quite a talk last week and next week they are taking it up a notch! Girls...we are heading the same direction -so be there and be ready to really ponder!

THOUGHT SO!

PEANUT BUTTER & SKINNY JEANS NIGHT 2/22

2009-02-20T14:43:00.004-05:00

OK -PEANUT BUTTER...because we are going to make Peanut Butter cookies and send them to Shan in Japan. If you'd like to help -come early and bring one of the following ingredients...

1 stick of butter

1 stick of butter

1 1/4 cup flour

1 1/4 cup flour

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

YES, THERE IS 2 OF EVERYTHING...THAT MAKES IT EASY FOR US TO MAKE A BATCH FOR HER AND A BATCH FOR US! Let me know by e-mail what you would like to bring, OK? (I have Peanut Butter and the Baking Powder and vanilla.)

Also, if you'd like to -bring a bag of Peanut Butter candies -Recesses Pieces, PB Cups, Peanut M&Ms etc. Or anything else you think would be nice to send her way. She is single and a super fun missionary friend.

SKINNY JEANS......because I was inspired at the mall by how popular they are again...an 80's fad for sure. If you don't have them -no worries...just come and get ready for the Best Ever Peanut Butter Games and a good time together.

Guys topic -Keeping the Girl without Losing God...Ooooh!

Girls topic -Mirror Mirror...hmmmm.

Should be a good night! See you all then!

Shopping -Winter Break 09

2009-02-20T13:19:00.007-05:00

OK -so our mall didn't really look like this -but hey -we went to the mall, anyway.

It was a Super Fun and Theraputic Day at Lakeside Mall!

Stunning, don't you think? I know you all have more pics of this -send them my way!!!

What a great catch, that guy...the quiet type...

Donuts in the Parking Lot

2009-02-11T08:27:00.003-05:00

SR HI BLITZ 09

2009-02-10T07:25:00.013-05:00

The snow was pretty good still the first night -so we tubed with what seemed like a gazillion other teens!

Lexi & Geenel

Julia & Megan

SHOWERS...

TRUST GAMES IN THE PAC HOUSE...

We all found other things to occupy our free time -some chose artistic endeavors.

Others played cards, Quiddler, Eucher, Rage, LRC...

This is what we had to deal with on Saturday...and by the late afternoon -all was MUDD!

Dangerously wet Bair Lake...

So NO Curling or Broom Ball and Cross Country Skiing sounded like a better idea than it was in reality.

But it made for great Ice Wall Climbing...

Megan Dunklin at the TOP!

Christian at the TOP!

Geenel on her way...

Tim...well he was really thinking about the TOP...

Thanks to our "professional" volley ball player, Lisa -we were able to smoke the Redford team. Well actually since they don't know about our Blog and I don't really know the score -I'll just call it like I saw it -we smoked them.

OUTDOOR WINTER ADVENTURE...

GUYS VS THE GIRLS...AIR HOCKEY...

ROCK CLIMBING IN THE PAC...

Megan Dunklin

Sasha Isaiah

Greg

The Speaker DC Curry -was amazing. I'll give you a little "taste" of what we learned in the next Blog. All in all, weather or not -it was a great, great weekend!

Tubing Video...

2009-02-03T08:51:00.003-05:00

OK so I am not the best videographer -but you get the gist.

Jr Hi Winter Blitz the BIG PICTURE

2009-02-02T12:47:00.048-05:00

From the beginning to the end -all in all it was a GREAT Weekend at Bair Lake Bible Camp!

Gotta LOVE the van ride...Eden was the photographer, yes -I was driving with both hands on the wheel.

Um...well Eden wasn't always the Photo-girl.

Sometimes Lexi took the shots and she caught some good ones!

This is our first night there -it was snowing softly as we tubed down their 3 lighted paths.

Saturday, after breakfast, we had an Outdoor Adventure...first we had to design a vehicle to transport "medication" to the sick, just as in the days of old. The Iditarod was the race that commemorated this amazing and brave service. Since we had no dogs -we worked together to design an appropriate vehicle with a pair of skis, a milk crate, some rope, 2 x4 chunks, cardboard and of course -duct tape.

...the Girls' Vehicle

and the Boys' Vehicle...both quite adequate, though ours was a bit prettier with the red tape.

Then, we set off to take medicine to the guy who would give us a clue to get us moving to the next guy. It was a clue seeking, snow tromping adventure. And, no...neither Hope team won. However, may I add, our vehicles were the best engineered of the bunch. We received no points for that, however.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, NATHAN!!!! WE HAD A LOT OF FUN MAKING OBNOXIOUS NOISE ALL DAY LONG WITH THE NICE HORNS PROVIDED TO US. THERE WERE DING DONGS ALL AROUND AND LOTS OF CANDY TO CHOMP. AND THE CAMP MADE NATHAN A SPECIAL BROWNIE WITH ICECREAM AND SPRINKLES...PRETTY NICE.

And Nathan, being the smooth guy he is -milked the whole birthday thing with "...well, I'm the birthday boy, I should get to decide...or pick...or go first...or "whatever suited him.

THE GYM...OR PAC BUILDING...it had basketball and volleyball, board games and tables and a couple of wall mounted wii systems.

It was the perfect day for tubing and we all had a lot of fun!

Stephen and Austin...

and notice the nice little shack behind Lexi at the top. A warm wood burning stove was in there and music was blaring -so great!

Nathan, Trevor and Stevie...

Nathan, Grant, Stevie and Trevor...

Ethan and Stephen...

Courtney...

LIL' EDIE...

JORDAN & SHAUNA...

AMANDA & COURTNEY...

TRAVIS, GRANT & STEVIE? NATHAN IN GOOD FORM...

...yes, they were probably screaming...

Major Wipe Out...they all made it back home -no worries.

The only problem with going DOWN is coming back UP...

It's all in a day's work!

Winter Blitz 2009 Jr Hi

2009-01-31T17:17:00.015-05:00

The gym is really cool and super new, volley ball and even wii! Yep. So, Sr Hi get ready for next weekend.

Oh yeah the speaker is great, too! Trusting God is always a good thing to think about, isn't it?

So cute!!!

Happy Birthday, Nathan!!! We've been celebrating all day long and Nathan is totally "milking"it!

It's so great here...the food is good and the cabins are warm. The bathrooms...well they will soon be re-done and we can tell why. But who spends time in the bathroom at camp?

Tomorrow Night...

2009-01-24T16:06:00.015-05:00

Guy/Girl talk continues this week with the Guy topic: HANGING WITH GOD & the Girl topic: WHO'S RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT?. Should be good. Thanks to our small group girl leaders for making this a really great way to talk out these issues.

See you all tomorrow night!

Snacks!...always a hit...THANKS GRANT (thank your mom, too -she's awesome).

Snack this Sunday: Delisles

Yep, another "BEST EVER" game by Mr. Steve. He's so amazing isn't he? And imagine all the skills you are gaining...

Some of you, aced this challenge...and were sent by your team again and again.

Others wished to be taller for this one, but still managed to prevail...

All in all you were good sports and we appreciate it!

The Band is back and they are doing

a lot of work to get WORSHIP going

again at Vantage Point each Sunday

night. So, sing extra loud and with an

open heart. Remember that worship is all about HIM, not us.

OOPS Game Night Photos

2009-01-24T14:51:00.011-05:00

27 of you came out in the cold & blowing snow to hang out and it was great! Here are a few shots I forgot to post last week!

...of course there was yummy FOOD made by the girls and DRINKS brought by the guys...

the GUYS...yeah -mostly played killer video games...NICE, I know... but not all the GUYS...

and some got in touch with their softer side and joined the girls for more intellectual games like QUIDDLER...

MAD GAB...

It was pretty loud, pretty crazy and pretty FUN!

Sunday Night -Guy Talk/Girl Talk

2009-01-17T20:17:00.010-05:00

Another spectacular BEST EVER GAME you 'll never wanna stop playing with your family and friends from Mr. Steve...the "who can put the little piece of tape highest on the wall" game.

The faces of the adventurous climbers have been strategically hidden for legal reasons.

Of course we had to judge the height of the little tape scraps...

And hey you gotta admit it was better than last weeks TP Adventure...

So come out this SUNDAY to sit on the couches, play games at the new table and learn some GUY/GIRL stuff from God's Word. It'll be great!

Check it out! Every Sunday Night for the next ten weeks, we'll be splitting up on Sunday nights for this series. It's being lead by Mr. Stephen and I and the girls are splitting up even further to talk through the topics. The Seniors are helping us out and Emily, Lisa and Caitlin each have a group and are already enjoying them.

And...come out for another great -I mean BEST EVER Game from Mr. Steve! Here's a peek at the last BEST EVER GAME:

New Diggs!!!

2009-01-17T20:00:00.004-05:00

Yep you heard it...we've got new diggs! It's gonna be really fun to play games at the table and sit on couches that don't REEK!

We actually tried out the place on Wednesday -Tim's Birthday -and it was pretty good. Clean at the very least. So, see ya tomorrow night for YOUTH and come early to get a good seat on the new couches!

STUFF...

2009-01-03T16:56:00.010-05:00

1. Did you guys remember your Vantage Point Bible Homework? At a mirror, thinking of what Jesus sees in you -really...not just your perception -read what He thinks in PSALM 139. And remember we are not known to God by our limitations but by who He has created us to be...His plans for us...

2. Parent Meeting after Church about Winter Camp in the chapel.

3.And.... TOILET PAPER! Yep, everybody bring a roll or two to youth tomorrow night. You'll be able to bring it right back home without anyone even noticing!...unless you take the one right off the holder -that could be bad.

4. GAME NIGHT AT OUR PLACE...THIS FRIDAY AT 6:30PM...

GUYS: BRING A 2LTR

GIRLS: BRING A MUNCHIE

I'LL MAKE COOKIES AND HAVE NON-POP BEVERAGES...HOW'S THAT?

JUST COME ON OVER AND BRING YOUR FAVORITE GAME, TOO.OK?

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-12-31T08:32:00.003-05:00

THANKS FOR GIVING US THE OPPORTUNITY AND SLACK TO LEAD YOU GUYS! YOU ARE A GREAT GROUP AND WE REALLY LOVE ALL OF YOU. WE HOPE TO LEAD YOU CLOSER TO GOD IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM AND ONE ANOTHER , THIS COMING YEAR.

One way is to post things to ponder on this blog instead of only fun and informational stuff. Please ponder and then comment...no wrong ideas or thoughts. OK? Also would like to hear what you think about some of the things you learn at the Bible Studies, ideas and such. And if anyone would like to post a blog sometime...let me know, OK?

So here is a fun shot to make you smile :

And here is something to ponder:

This is God talking in the Fiction Novel the "Shack"...really interesting book...Mr. Steve and I are about half way through.

"A bird's not defined by being grounded but by his ability to fly. Remember this, humans are not defined by their limitations, but by the intentions that I (GOD) have for them; not by what they seem to be, but by everything it means to be created in My image." William Young "the Shack"

Think about that for a moment or two...let us know your thoughts...agree...disagree?

Beach Party?

2008-12-31T07:53:00.015-05:00

OK, so our beach party was the kind on a cooler beach than

typically thought of. But we had a lot of fun, anyway. We ate nachos and drank lemonade through straws...that's kinda beachy. And we played badminton and basketball...well the guys always play basketball and get all sweaty and then sit on the already stinky couches...but that's another blog.

Whoa -Eden...you go, girl!

Amanda and Nick were by far the best Beach Dressed for the occasion.

And Geenel...well Leah thought it would be festive to wrap her?

And we had a lesson on Perception & Reality from the Skit Guys. God's Reality is best and we can remind ourselves of it by going to HIS Word more than once a week at church.

Oh yeah and we played that secret game with...um...plastic Easter eggs was it? Fun how they fly through the air like water balloons...

Oooh yah...especially Nick's. He and Leah won the game and Geenel...well she kinda was the biggest looser, but my camera ran outta battery to capture that.

Christmas Party '08 & July at Christmas...

2008-12-26T23:50:00.014-05:00

Christmas is a time of giving...

Sharing...

Decorating...

Singing loud for all to hear...

And stressing out...

And spreading good cheer to all...we had a lot of fun with you guys on Sunday night. Thanks for all the help with the food and decor. Thanks for the good attitudes singing to the Seniors. They loved it!

Thanks too for the really kind and thoughtful gifts, honestly -we love you guys and wish you a great rest of the year!

SO...COME OUT SUNDAY NIGHT FOR YOUTH AND BE PREPARED FOR A SUMMER BLAST -

YEP you heard it right -SUNDAY NIGHT YOUTH DEC. 28 is JULY AT CHRISTMAS!

Everyone has CHRISTMAS IN JULY -well don't we really need July at Christmas? So, dig out your flip-flops and t-shirts and shorts and we'll pump up the heat in the gym (don't tell Mr. Euge) and we'll play some warm weather games to heat things up!

SEE YOU SUNDAY NIGHT -BRING YOUR FRIENDS AND YOUR SUMMER-TIME SPIRIT!

2008-12-14T14:53:00.004-05:00

The Terminator...yep, you've got it. Last week Princess Bride and this week -the Terminator -we like to think we have a little something for everybody.

So come on out tonight and find out what in the world the TERMINATOR has to do with the Christmas Story. Sounds like a stretch, but I must say -I am amazed!

Oh and girls -we need to double check the ties on the quilt and wrap it.

And everyone who would like to decorate an ornament for a senior citizen at the Towers -bring a $1.00 and come glue and glitter your heart out.

Please sign up for the Christmas Party next Sunday night and already start shopping for that perfect dollar store gift that keeps on giving. ( No toilet paper, please.)

Wednesday Night!

2008-12-10T10:13:00.004-05:00

HEY! we are back and ready to roll. We learned a ton and got some great curriculum and ideas . We have a lot to share with you and tonight we'll even incorporate the Princess Bride -a classic -I know.

So, come on out and bring your Bibles! I know some of you will be helping with the Kids Program -thanks for being so willing to help. Join us when you can, OK?

Sunday Night the 30th...

2008-12-01T12:43:00.017-05:00

The ball does go in!!!

Travis smokin' 'em...

They are all perplexed, I think...or it's giving Greg a headache.

Go Mr. Steve! I heard, though that the "string music" was coming from Aaron.

The Girls, on the other hand were up to more serious matters.

Time to gift wrap all the neat stuff we purchased last week for Kyla -the 16 year old we "adopted" this Christmas from Lighthouse Ministries. They did a great wrapping job and were supervised by Eden -our controls analyst and tape dispenser girl.

The final result -cute paper from Pam Dundas, cute wrap styles by us girls, cute card -hand made by Megan.

Then, for another pressing project -the girls made signs (2) to put on the Can/Bottle Return Bin in the youth room. They did a great job. They posted them nicely -and some guy walked in and threw his trash in the "bin" anyway!!!! "They have eyes but do not see." -C. Eichhorst

BOTTOM LINE: DON'T PUT TRASH IN THE POP CAN/BOTTLE BIN...EVER!

The GAME! What can I say -the girls won not once but twice. Their team work mentality paid off big. The first time the guys were so far ahead -there seemed no way for the girls to out-sip them. But they did. Which annoyed the guys -so they asked for a re-match...and the girls beat 'em by a mile this time -now having perfected their game. So, there you have it!

Maybe it was all the relaxing...

Maybe the team work and ingenuity...

maybe operator error...?

THE SNACKS: MADE WITH LOVE BY THE WELLS! YUMMMMMM...

We had separate guy/girls Bible Studies on the topic of the 1st Advent. It is pretty cool to think that God was so excited about Jesus coming to earth that HE really prepared...just like us for a big party or vacation. Every detail. Think about it this week as you start thinking about Christmas...

And think about the Name of Jesus as well. What does it mean? How incredible and significant it is. Your parents put a lot of thought into yours...Nick and Nathan -we heard the story...imagine God working on it for HIS Son...no wonder He came up with so many -Wonderful Counselor, Almighty God, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace. How great is that?

My parents named me after a really old toothless lady everyone said was ornery -and my Aunt's dog!!! So don't feel bad Nick and Nathan. :)

Shopping Success!

2008-11-29T16:15:00.014-05:00

It takes a lot of energy...

and concentration...

and cheer...

Target was the place and Sunday Night we shopped for a good cause. The 16 year old we "adopted" will have a lot of really fun things to open and enjoy this Christmas, thanks to our group. We collected $54.00 ( and if you still haven't contributed, you can do so this Sunday) and we spent $75.00 -hey that's only about $20 over budget and I just know the rest of you will want to get in on it this week.

Jessica and Jordan's moms came along and helped with the driving. And Jordan's mom supplied the wrapping paper and boxes. THANK YOU!!!!

OK, so tomorrow night, we'll wrap the gifts. So, please plan to help us out with that. The quilt is well...almost done...as it turned out -it was way too small for a twin bed. So, I've been working on enlarging it a bit. So, say a prayer.

Guess that's it. Enjoy the "America's Top Model" Pic's and we'll see you all tomorrow night.

Wednesday Night! Nov.19

2008-11-19T10:46:00.005-05:00

OK tonight is special -we'll be in the sanctuary or chapel for Testamonies. I don't wanna hear any "awh..."s. It's just for a bit -and when people and kids get up the guts to tell others how they came to know Jesus -we should be thrilled! I'm sure you are -once you think about it.

So, come out -bring your Bibles...plan to hear testimonies...plan to play some in the gym...work on the quilt...all that!

DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR $2.00 FOR THE TEEN WE ARE SPONSORING FOR CHRISTMAS.

AND GIRLS -BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR E-MAIL FOR SHOPPING TRIP INFO -IT'S NEXT SUNDAY. YOU NEED A PERMISSION SLIP. AND PLEASE SIGN UP SO WE HAVE ENOUGH DRIVERS.

TONIGHT!!!

2008-11-16T16:22:00.005-05:00

Wahoo, tonight is gonna be fun. Maybe the Bible Study won't be as good as Nick, Caitlin and Jessica's -but they are a little too young to be hired for the job. So, come, plan to work on the QUILT -play a new silly game -and learn something. BRING YOUR BIBLES!

Oh yeah -and DON'T FORGET YOUR $2.OO TO DONATE FOR THE 16 YEAR OLD WE ARE SPONSORING FOR CHRISTMAS! THE GIRLS WILL SHOP NEXT WEEK.

SEE YOU SOON!

Wednesday Night! is ON!!!

2008-11-10T10:03:00.006-05:00

YES WEDNESDAY NIGHT THE 12TH OF NOVEMBER IS OUR USUAL YOUTH GROUP TIME...WITH UNUSUAL SPEAKERS.

SENIOR HI - taught by Nick Johnson (not Jesse...he only pretended to volunteer)

Bring a Bible that you can write in and preferably one you'd give away if you ever had the opportunity.
Yes, there will be snacks...
Isaiah will be making the trip to hear his pal, Nick which is very loyal although I must say Stephen and I are a little hurt that WE are never worth the trip on a Wednesday night!!!

Way to step up, Nick! Thanks.

JR HI -taught by Caitlin and Jessica (Caitlin not pictured here...the only one I have was taken while she scrubbed her face with pineapple and it is a little hostile looking...Lexi! did you take that one?)

Plan on listening
Bring your Bibles
It's gonna be great...and YES, there are snacks at the end.

Thanks a lot Caitlin and Jessica!

Thanks too, to Megan who also volunteered and Jesse, well, who fake volunteered. We really do appreciate you guys using your heads and hearts to think outside the box so the meeting wouldn't have to be canceled. Says a lot about you all! We are impressed and wish we could be there! We will think of you while listening to "This Land is Your Land" all outta key.

SR HI GIRLS SLEEP-N-EXPERIMENT

2008-11-08T12:18:00.014-05:00

OK -it started out a Sleep-n-Tell...but I got all these ideas about rubbing our faces with Pineapple and making Chocolate Cake in a mug -that we forgot to tell our deepest darkest secrets.

We ate lots of great food -2 excellent Banana Breads...I really think the Banana Bread Bake Off was won by Sarah. She had the color, presentation and banana flavor to perfection. AND it was all gone! I, on the other hand, had the pears, freshness and warmth and home field advantage -but there are a few small pieces in the pan. Way to go Sarah! Meg brought the dill dip and Jessica made us a warm and gooey chili cheese dip...oh and we ate the pineapple (the pieces we did not use on our faces!) Although I don't know why I have to say that -we aren't boys...

Anyway the Pineapple Experiment...well it's supposed to be the best thing for your face. And we have to admit it feels pretty invigorating rubbing it on. But when you stop -it makes your face itchy! Weird.

See, no one really wanted to try it -but they saw Emily and I and were intrigued!

Chocolate Cake in a Mug Experiment...

It was pretty exciting watching the batter almost over flow in my microwave. So, everyone decided to try it. Emily had some rules, though -everyone had to lick their fork off properly. Kinda reminds me about Mr. Steve's Slurpee Rules...anyway, the Story on the Cake is this...the texture is all wrong! Too Spongy and sticky.

Then, after all the food, experiments and such -we decided on a movie...Nannie Diaries! It was not funny...I got that all wrong. But it ended good and a couple of us actually watched the entire thing -right Hannah?

All in all -it was a great night, with great food and a really great group of SR HI Girls. Thanks Girls!

GUYS ALL NIGHT RAMPAGE

2008-11-08T11:15:00.011-05:00

The Guys All Night Rampage sounded pretty action packed. We have no proof -but we can just imagine the damage to the Schienke Farm.

Buildings knocked down, windows shattered, trees battered...thankfully all 18 teens with Jay and Mr. Steve returned...we think.

Then, the guys played football and here is Devin making the catch. Awesome catch -but bummer for his knee. Sounds like it was twisted when he landed. We'll keep you up dated about his possible return for the next game.

Basketball had it's fair share of injuries, too. Wonder what was going on there? Travis suffered a debilitating pinkie jam. Man! But no one was ever knocked out in the marathon Knock-Out Game. Maybe we should invest in another Wii -it may cut down on the injuries...

Thankfully jay called Adam to pick up a couple of decks of cards! That WAS a bit safer...although I'm not sure if they played spoons! That can get pretty viscious! All in all it sounds like a pretty rough night...with very little sleep. But THANKS TO JAY ADAM AND MR. STEVE -YOU ALL SURVIVED IT!

Oh yeah -and I helped with the food! - Which I am certain was a hit!

Please feel free to send along any interesting happenings...Mr. Steve is down for the count...so, I'll try to update it again later.

Sunday Night - Tonight!

2008-11-02T14:11:00.004-05:00

Hey...don't miss tonight. We have a "scary" game planned and chocolaty prizes for the winners. Ya know you want in on that.

Guys, or active oriented people -it's Round II of knock-out.

And though I wish I could compete -I will be in the kitchen planning a shopping trip for the girls to purchase a few things for the 16 Year Old Girl in the family Hope is sponsoring for Christmas this year. And, we'll be making some Pop Can Drive Posters as well.

And tonight's Bible Study -PEACEMAKERS...plan to be creative -it comes with a skit. Well skit together and Bible Study Separate for the Jr. and Sr. HI.

And...yes, one more thing. I'd like to take a photo or two for a card for Brandon and one for the Blog Profile Photo. OK? So, come photogenic.

Tonight!!!

2008-10-26T21:33:00.008-04:00

Wow -everyone had a lot of energy, tonight - which was good. And Brandon was able to join us and the update was that he has 4 treatments left. So, keep praying. Keep Jesse's ankle in mind, too -his toes are looking good even if the big and second are having a bit of a power struggle.

And check out the girls -they are getting their weekly manicure while the rest played "knock-out" -yessss...I was immediately knocked out - yep twice! Ahhhh -back to my nails.

And pray for your schools -apparently spirit week is a little bit...um...well not so good.

Remember to listen to the only voice that will never tell you wrong -God's voice. It's the voice of truth. We all can hear the loud voices of the world telling us things. It's easy to start thinking they are right. But think about that obstacle course. Only one voice really looked out for the participant. The rest of us were yelling all sorts of things. Wrong or a little wrong, things. But remember even a little poop in your brownie makes it gross. Same goes for what you hear, think and believe.

So, listen for the VOICE of TRUTH. We can promise you His voice will always be right and in your best interest.

Have a great week - and know you are loved and prayed for.

Youth Tonight!!!

2008-10-26T16:28:00.002-04:00

Hey don't forget...leave your homework there for a couple of hours and come out tonight for an obstacle course, games, nails (yes, girls your nails need polishing) snacks brought to you by the Schienkes and most importantly I'll sing you a song to go with our lesson. Bet 'cha can't wait for that!

See you there!