Solo in Missouri

I had the opportunity to return to Missouri to share with a group of teenagers and visit some friends that recently left California. I was able to spend a few days with Cliff who pastors a church in the Ozarks and then spend a few days with Tom who pastors a church in Springfield. I had a great time and enjoyed teaching Toms morning services that Sunday. It was my first solo trip which took some getting used to. I missed Jacquie and the “GREAT WHITE CHUNK” but the time was fruitful.

Bowling

We had a blast this weekend as we took over the bowling alley. There were about 45 of us bowling it up at Victor Bowl. The youth had a great time showing off their bowling skills. Adalyn even got in the bowling action rolling a few balls down the gutter.

Youth Workers Conference

We were able to take a big group of leaders to this years conference. It was a blast staying up late, eating together and hanging out at the local mall. The teachings and workshops were very informative and encouraging this year. The guys would spend every evening in the hot tub, but those pictures would be very disturbing so here are some other pictures from the conference.




Jacquie and Sonya stopped their shopping to pose for a picture.

Jason is showing off his "CASH MONEY SHOES" in front of Casey's stock Toyota rims. We turned our back on him in the mall and he came out with those shoes on.

Vacation, Painting, Lighting

I took a week off work to do some needed home improvements. Jacquie and I hung out while we painted the inside of the house our brand new “grown up colors.” I also added some new lighting in the fish tank room with the help of my good friend Jason. Adalyn loved watching the work get done and trying to get into things. We finished up our week with a trip to Disneyland and a birthday party for Sarah Myers.

Christmas with Addy

Christmas Family

Christmas Family

Christmas Time With Friends

Wedding Time

Wedding bells were ringing at the beach this weekend as Ben and Jody exchanged wedding vows. It was a time of celebration as you can see Jacquie rocking out on Alex’s guitar.

Leaders Christmas Dinner

Every year all the youth leaders get together for a Christmas party and gift exchange. The Griggs have opened their home to us the last couple of years which provides a great atmosphere for us to fellowship and hang out. There were several leaders that were missed this year but the overall night was great.

Jacquie showed off her pearly whites before we started the gift exchange and several rounds of gift stealing. Jacquie and I teamed up and went home with some great $10 gifts.





Sarah Myers was our master drink mixer this year. She was making Italian cream sodas for everyone as they came in the door. She provided a dozen different flavors and knew just the right mixture for a perfect cream soda.

Ben’s Bachelor Party

Ice Blocking

Ice blocking is also known as desert sledding. We purchased blocks of ice from the store then sit on the ice while sliding down a grassy hill. It’s cheap fun entertainment that can easily keep teenagers occupied for hours and forgetful that it’s freezing and windy outside. After ice blocking we went to Jesse and Missy’s house for hot chocolate and fellowship.




Jesse and Gabe racing head first down the grassy slope competing for the fastest leader title that Jesse held since last year. Gabe was able to usurp Jesse this year and take over the title of fastest leader.



My brother Vincent getting his ice out of the bag with his rubber gloves on. Mom, buy him a pair of snow gloves for Christmas or a toilet brush.