Lincoln Logs, Play-doh and Finger Paint

Each creative planning meeting I try to start with a question that will stimulate community building and/or creativity. I am sure that resources exist for these types of openers/icebreakers, but that would be way too easy! As always, I must reinvent the wheel and come up with my own.

This week I decided to ask my team "if I were to give you the options of Lincoln Logs, Play-doh and Finger Paints which would you choose and why?" The responses were very interesting and shed a little light on our team dynamics. We had one finger painter, one sculptor and two Lincoln Loggers.

What a cool dynamic to have people who "play" in different ways. This is evident in how we approach service planning and is also helpful in knowing more of how each of us is wired.

So, what do you choose?

BTW, I'm one of the two Lincoln Loggers.... Who would've guessed!

Random Shout-Outs

This morning as I came in to the office I was listening to my new Brenton Brown CD (compliments of EMI - Thank you!) and I found myself really worshipping in my car. I just love that! And I've missed it. And it got me to thinking of some people who God has used to help me start getting back to feeling like myself. And these people should be thanked. Some of them will never read this and never know that God used them, but I'd like to recognize them at least here in the internet universe.

First, Douglas who helped me recognize the fog I was living in and challenged me to find my way out. Randy, Chonda, Jacque, Cheryl, Laura and Frank who all helped me to know that it's not only ok but normal to get in that fog sometimes because as one of them said so well... ministry is emotionally hard. What a huge statement that is. And my current favorite worshippers Brenton Brown, Keith and Krystyn Getty and Matt Maher who so beautifully put to words so many of the things my heart was aching to say.

Oh, and I almost forgot... John Voelz. I know this is what God has called me to... but it feels weird to be one of few gals doing it. Thanks for making me feel welcome in the predominantly guy world of creative arts directors. Look! I figured out how to post pics in blogger!!! :)

Thank you all! And whatever you do, don't you dare ever stop letting God use you. Ministry is emotionally hard but know that there will always be someone who needs your wisdom, encouragement or for you to just put words to their hearts. Thank you!

Physical and Intellectual Gluttony: Lots of Food and Food for Thought

Wow! I'm still digesting and probably will be for more than a month. I am on my way home from re:Create the thinktank/conferene hoted by Chris and Randy Elrod. We learned, ate, learned, ate and learned some more. I am exhausted they way I am Thanksgiving Day after visting with people I love and enjoying rich, yummy foods I don't get to enjoy everyday.

This year challenges came at me from so many different directions. My biggest challenge... Don't waste the emense priveleges I've been given. God has graciously put me in an industry that my heart beats for. He has given me a ministry team that I love. He has put gifted leaders around me to help build the team. And for the past two years it has been such a privelege to rub elbows with the folks at re:Create for the past two years. But it can't be only that. What am I going to do with it? What will I do with the knowledge I've gained? with the relationships I've started? I'm not entirely sure yet... except that I must do something!

As for the weight I've gained? I know what to do about that.... I'll be back after my ride.