August 30, 2009

Another week has gone by in the journey of life, and we are setting up for a new week ahead. Looking back on this past week I am glad to have gotten through it since I have taken on some new job responsibilities; not too mention dealt with some type of cold or something at the end of the week. So, here are just some random thoughts I've had this weekend while considering the short work week (thanks to a 4 day weekend) ahead.

- Have you ever noticed that there is never a bad time to have pancakes for dinner?

- Why is it that school vice principles actually think the world revolves around them? Honestly, I will never understand this.

- I saw my first restaurant score a perfect 100 on their state health inspection; to say I was impressed is an understatement!

- While reading the book "Courageous Leadership" (by Bill Hybels) I began thinking about different leadership styles and wondering how best to lead a church again. It is definitely something to consider when it comes to the art of leadership.

- Taking a break from this Master's program has actually helped my mind re-focus and put some things in order for me. Only 4 short classes left to go.

- Lisa and I will be travel on Sat to perform a friend's wedding in Huntsville; cannot wait to be a part of their wonderful day! Also, looking forward to spending some time with family as well.

- And oh yeah, did I mention that pancakes for dinner is never a bad thing?

Prayerfully your week will be as blessed and as stress free as possible. Try to consider all that God has done for you, and I think the things that you must do in return may become clear. God bless you.

August 16, 2009

Well, aren't I just a day behind on this one? It has really been THAT kind of week around here and well, I guess I will just have to settle with being a day late. So, without any other fanfare here is my SSS for August 16, 2009.

- This was a long week since I was on the road in DC. Lots of meetings and informational fact finding really filled my days. Lots of good places to eat though while we were there, so that was a plus.

- When I got home on Friday Lucy's ashes were on my desk and well, it was a sad day on Friday. I have everything together now to make her little memorial in my office and I will be putting that together in the next few days. It's sad still, and my heart still hurts ... a lot.

- This coming week has a Project Management Boot Camp filling most of it, so there are some definite good things setting up for the future there. I liken the class to drinking from a fire hydrant ... but it is VERY good information.

- I spent some time this weekend wondering why the old movies still make me smile; and then I realized the answer. It's simple entertainment without a bunch of nonsense to clutter things up ... I think I like that idea.

- We visited our old church on Sunday and really felt the presence of the Lord welcome us in. The search continues but there are now 2 churches who have shown some interest in my resume, so we'll continue to wait and see how God moves.

Well, it's short and simple this week -- I hope your week is a blessing. Please (if you do or could) remember my family in prayer. We are going through some things that I don't want to go into detail here but know that we are clinging to the cross for guidance and comfort. Thank you and may God bless you.

August 9, 2009

This week was busy, but I actually got a few things done between work and home that it was not a total waste. So, without much delay or fanfare here is my latest SSS for this week.

- Tomorrow my daughter is officially a sophomore in High School and I still find myself wondering where time goes so fast!! (Love you Niki!)

- Several things have been lining up at work and it looks like some new opportunities might be on the horizon for me. I cannot go into much detail, but prayerfully this will line up some things for after retirement (which by the way is only 13 months away).

- My brother, Tim, packed up his things and went back to NY yesterday (Saturday) – we wish him all the best and pray that he gets exactly what he desires out of life.

- I’m headed to DC (Alexandria actually) for a week of work with my boss and as always, it is a trip to look forward too but there is always LOTS of things to be done. Hopefully, I can get some clarification on a few projects and on the status of items which are in the “Beltway” waiting on approval/coordination.

- We visited another new church today and honestly the Spirit was simply refreshing. We are still visiting churches in the area and looking for a home church, so please continue to remember us in prayer as we follow the Lord’s leading. Never have we felt more in tune to follow His leading, and this time of “pilgrimage” (as I call it) has really brought a sense of renewal to me and our family.

- I received a letter this week from a church here in town that has received my resume and would like to discuss the available Pastor position. I am anxious to see how God works in this situation and I confess that His will being done is all that matters; and so even in my anxiousness I turn it over to Him for leadership and guidance.

Well, that is about it from here. Please be sure to remember Lisa and the kids while I am out of town this week. It is my hope that you have a wonderful week, and I will close with a blessing from Numbers 6:24-26, “The Lord bless you, and keep you; The Lord make His face shine on you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace."

August 2, 2009

I skipped last week’s SSS because I was on vacation, and well there was so much going on in our lives that it just simply took a back seat. So, without further delay here is my edition for this week.

- As most know I had to put my 16 year-old dog, Lucy, to sleep this past Wednesday and truth be told it was the hardest thing I have ever had to do. Thankfully, God has brought me through and lifted me up (and is continuing to do so), even enough to be able to write a tribute to her in memory: http://tjconwell.blogspot.com/2009/07/i-remember.html I thank you all for your prayers and warm wishes during this time of grief and sorrow in my family.

- School starts this Friday for Nicole (she’s a sophomore now in High School) so everyone is getting ready for that with glee and excitement … Well, everyone except Nicole of course. (HAHAHA)

- Chris will begin his sophomore year in college in about 2 weeks, and it’s such a moment of pride for me to see him being faithful to continue his education.

- Speaking of school, I have only 4 classes left until I finish my Master’s degree, looks like I am on track for a March 2010 graduation.

- Work is work … but at least it is moving forward and things are getting done.

- We are headed to a good friend’s church today to worship and celebrate his recent calling as their Minister of Music. It should be a blessing and a great time of fellowship.

- Our search continues to find a church home, praying that God will continue to guide and direct us as He has always been faithful to do.

Well, that is about it from here. May your Sunday (and your week) be filled with God’s mercy and blessing upon you and your family.