little sammy allen

A Little Snow... a Little Sun... a little time at the pool...... Ahhhhhh.....

2011-03-13T17:14:00.000-07:00

Near perfect day at Crested Butte. Very few lift lines, awesome snow last night and this morning, sunny after lunch, and the hot tub and pool were perfect!! No injuries.

The only problem is the paparazzi:

All is well. Best regards, ><> lsa.

Get ready.

2011-02-21T05:02:00.001-08:00

It is nearly time to snowboard.

Youth Led Worship, Crisis in Egypt. Very similar.

2011-02-06T18:47:00.000-08:00

Very similar, but worship was louder.

AAAAAAAEEEEEEEEEEIIIIIIII!!!!!!

SwTx worship conference

2010-04-17T05:51:00.000-07:00

Hi all - greetings from Boerne (pronounced Bernie (but he's not here)). We arrived safe (not so dry, though) and sound (loud, actually) in Boerne. I understand there are 300 or more here and we were lead in worship by the Mark Swaze Band with a message by Ryan Barnett. Great start to a new chapter for choir rally. Classes today. I will let you know if anyone is "discovered" by a major record label.

><> lsa

Another One in the Books!!

2010-03-17T20:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Cathye and Roy Moon for the support and web hosting. Hope you all had a great time. Join us next year.

A Quick Report for Monday….

2010-03-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

No new injuries and one of yesterday’s fallen was miraculously healed and lived to ski another day (Praise the Lord!! Hallelujah – the power of prayer, a good night’s sleep, and all your buddies ripping up good snow). Lots of sunshine and (so far so good) everyone appears to have followed the sunscreen rules (Reed’s face always looks red like that).

Hey!! Let’s meet a few of the SVUMYF 2010 ski team members:

Bronco “Breaker” Dean:

Bronco holds the world record for quickest ski pole destruction, ripping a large ski pole apart a mere 1.085529377380287098453879483795 nanoseconds after reaching the snow.

Reggie “Robo-Ski” Wilder:

You have to look really hard, but you can see him if you concentrate…..

Blake “The Missile” Richardson:

Never snowplows. Ever.

We’re all good and we’ll miss this place. We all send our love and covet your prayers for a safe trip home. See you soon!! I'll try to tweet now and then.

><> lsa

A successful first day!!!

2010-03-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

It was indeed a grand day on the mountain, a few visits to first aid (if you haven’t gotten a phone call, your kid ain’t hurt), but all in all a very positive start. Cold today but not unbearable and the snow was very very good.

Here are photos of a couple of the snow zombies:

A long bus ride, a great swimming pool...

first night giggles, and a hard day on the slopes makes for a good night’s sleep (I hope).

More to come. Love to all.

<>< LSA

Be afraid. Be very afraid.

2010-03-13T15:35:00.000-08:00

There are obvious signs of trouble on the horizon. The weather was perfect. The rockslide had been cleared to four lanes except for a half-mile stretch which wasn't that bad, the dvd player on the bus worked, it wasn't too hot, wasn't too cold, the drivers were both extremely nice and accomodating (and very very safe), no one puked, no one had a headache, we arrived in Glenwood Springs two hours ahead of schedule right at lunch time, they let us get our skis early, the hotel was ready for us and all our rooms were as ordered, the pool is open, unloading was nearly flawless and Joy didn't yell at....... well Joy eventually yells at someone so that's not biggie, but otherwise, things are going way too good. Things are going way to good indeed. I'm staying in my room until its time to go home.

><> SSA

Into the night....

2010-03-12T23:38:00.001-08:00

Just left the traditional mandatory bathroom break at Plainview and narcolepsy is breaking out. I'm tweeting while I'm still conscious: check out sallen13 at Twitter if you're tired of w(ching paint dry. Next stop is the Love's truck stop in Amarillo. I'm pretty sure I need a "Git 'er done" tank top. They always have a good selection.....

Matthew 17:20 - If you have faith like a mustard seed.....

2010-03-11T08:33:00.000-08:00

You can say to that boulder, move from I-70 to somewhere else, and it will move. Nothing will be impossible to you.

Tina or Joy must have called the highway department and leaned on `em, coz they're clearing rocks like crazy up there. Here's another story:

http://www.prweb.com/releases/glenwood_canyon/interstate_70/prweb3713664.htm

8" of new powder in the last 48 hours, too. Huh?? Huh?? Yeah baby!!

<>< lsa

Pffftttt! College Hills is worse than this!!

2010-03-09T18:51:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure we can make it through, especially if Tina's driving. Let's go!!

Click here for the snow report:

http://www.coloradoski.com/Resorts/ColoradoSkiResorts/Sunlight/

><>lsa

Ski Trip 2009 - Day 2.03

2009-03-15T17:53:00.000-07:00

We all arrived in great shape and had some great skiing. The people here could not be nicer. There' s also a tiny waterpark in the hotel pool. Woo-hoo.

One sprain so far and not to bad I think.

All is well, God is good.

Shalom - lsa <><

Ski Trip 2009 - day 1.5

2009-03-15T17:44:00.000-07:00

Ski Trip 2009, day 1.5:

2:47 p.m. Mountain time, Saturday, March 14, 2009, somewhere 40 miles West of Denver….

A very safe and uneventful drive through the night led to breakfast with seven other ski groups at a McDonald’s somewhere southeast of Denver. Then we filed back on the bus to watch the morning grey turn into a grand and beautiful sunbathed morning. As we made our way past Denver and into the mountains on I-70, we all began to feel the true and wondrous glow of togetherness and accord. Before long, all the sudden, we all just decided to stop along the way and just - be together. We realized that once we arrived at Glenwood Springs we would be separated and would not be re-united like this for days. No, this time together was too special, the day too beautiful, the sun so glorious. And so, we pulled over at a parking area just to enjoy the sun and the snow on the hill beside the lot. Just to hang together, listen to ipods, eat Doritos, sled down the hill, pee, watch Kung Fu Panda and chill out (sometimes literally). Indeed, just to be together and feel the love we have for each other. Truly, for no other reason than to simply spend as the kindred sisters and brothers we all are in Christ together.

I suppose part of it could have had something to do with the bus breaking down, too. It sorta overheated and we got out and fished out some bottled water and poured it in the radiator (somewhere around three cases in individual 1 and 1.5 liter bottles). But we really just wanted to be together I think.

Matt should be back with pizza in an hour or so and our replacement bus should be along a little while after that. Looks like a good shot to make it in time to get skis, hotel rooms, and dinner just like we planned.

I love you guys…. *sniff*. Kum bah ya, my Lord, kum bah ya.

><> lsa

Now........ to Sunlight. Ahhhhhhhh......

2009-03-12T19:55:00.001-07:00

Change??

2008-11-08T10:41:00.000-08:00

In a November 5th op-ed in the Wall Street Journal, Jeffrey Scott Shapiro (a former 2004 Kerry intern) wrote:

“The treatment President Bush has received from this country is nothing less than a disgrace… [N]o matter what Mr. Bush does, he is blamed for everything. He remains despised by the left while continuously disappointing the right. Yet it should seem obvious that many of our country's current problems either existed long before Mr. Bush ever came to office, or are beyond his control. Perhaps if Americans stopped being so divisive, and congressional leaders came together to work with the president on some of these problems, he would actually have had a fighting chance of solving them.”

I agree with Shapiro, but that is not my point. My point is to question whether Shapiro’s article could appear again in four (or eight) years with the name Obama substituted for Bush and still be accurate. The far right finds itself in a new and politically hostile landscape. The far left now holds the potential for pervasive control of the federal government for a long time. Nonetheless, the one thing that hasn’t changed is that each new day presents the opportunity for positive change for all Americans. Will we indeed witness “Change we can Believe in” (sic); a new and evenhanded quest for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all persons? Or will this day only mark a point when the advantage merely changed in a battle of bitterness and disfunction that continues unabated?

I’m not happy with either side of the aisle in D.C. However, I will soon have a new president worthy of my respect and my assistance. I have friends and family who voted differently in the historic 2008 presidential election and I still love them all dearly. Today my prayer for this still great nation is to become one again. The so-called conservatives and so-called liberals need to focus on taking real and logical steps to stop the bleeding in our economy, bring about a best possible end to our foreign wars, do all that is possible to create opportunity for all people, and protect us from the real and horrific threats to our lives that exist both inside and outside our borders. If the results are fair and commonsense, no one citizen will like all of it. But it’s not about the collective “me”. It’s about one “us”. The future should not be focused on a plan to get back what power we lost in the election or to settle the score for past inequities perpetrated on a political minority. Today and each tomorrow should be dedicated to one nation from now on.

Finally, Shapiro’s most poignant observation is that our disloyalty “has not gone unnoticed by our enemies”. I agree and I also believe that the “enemies” of whom he speaks are persons and circumstances both foreign and domestic. If we continue to fight each other instead of those enemies our situation is grave, our future is bleak, and our legacy will soon be squandered. One thing I will do to move toward unity and change is to respect my new president, to help him govern, and to do all I can to encourage the other folks in government to work toward unity and change as well. I’m going to do some other positive things, too. I’m just not exactly sure what they will be yet. Hopefully writing this will prove to be a good start.

Congratulations Mr. Obama. Hail to the Chief.

We're Baaaaaaccckkkkkkkkk!

2008-03-22T14:22:00.001-07:00

Maundy Thursday - Do this.

2008-03-20T22:37:00.000-07:00

Luke 22: 7-65
The Last Supper 7Then came the day of Unleavened Bread on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. 8Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, "Go and make preparations for us to eat the Passover."
9"Where do you want us to prepare for it?" they asked.
10He replied, "As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, 11and say to the owner of the house, 'The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?' 12He will show you a large upper room, all furnished. Make preparations there."
13They left and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.
14When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. 15And he said to them, "I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. 16For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfillment in the kingdom of God."
17After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, "Take this and divide it among you. 18For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes."
19And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me."
20In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you. 21But the hand of him who is going to betray me is with mine on the table. 22The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed, but woe to that man who betrays him." 23They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this.
24Also a dispute arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. 25Jesus said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. 26But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. 27For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. 28You are those who have stood by me in my trials. 29And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, 30so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
31"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you[a] as wheat. 32But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers."
33But he replied, "Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death."
34Jesus answered, "I tell you, Peter, before the rooster crows today, you will deny three times that you know me."
35Then Jesus asked them, "When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?" "Nothing," they answered.
36He said to them, "But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don't have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one. 37It is written: 'And he was numbered with the transgressors'[b]; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfillment."
38The disciples said, "See, Lord, here are two swords." "That is enough," he replied.
Jesus Prays on the Mount of Olives 39Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. 40On reaching the place, he said to them, "Pray that you will not fall into temptation." 41He withdrew about a stone's throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, 42"Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." 43An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. 44And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.[c]
45When he rose from prayer and went back to the disciples, he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow. 46"Why are you sleeping?" he asked them. "Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation."
Jesus Arrested 47While he was still speaking a crowd came up, and the man who was called Judas, one of the Twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him, 48but Jesus asked him, "Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?"
49When Jesus' followers saw what was going to happen, they said, "Lord, should we strike with our swords?" 50And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear.
51But Jesus answered, "No more of this!" And he touched the man's ear and healed him.
52Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple guard, and the elders, who had come for him, "Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come with swords and clubs? 53Every day I was with you in the temple courts, and you did not lay a hand on me. But this is your hour—when darkness reigns."
Peter Disowns Jesus 54Then seizing him, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. 55But when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. 56A servant girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, "This man was with him."
57But he denied it. "Woman, I don't know him," he said.
58A little later someone else saw him and said, "You also are one of them." "Man, I am not!" Peter replied.
59About an hour later another asserted, "Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean."
60Peter replied, "Man, I don't know what you're talking about!" Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. 61The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: "Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times." 62And he went outside and wept bitterly.
The Guards Mock Jesus 63The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating him. 64They blindfolded him and demanded, "Prophesy! Who hit you?" 65And they said many other insulting things to him.

Love and Kisses

2008-03-19T22:39:00.000-07:00

Name that abrasion.

2008-03-19T22:34:00.001-07:00

Let's play name that abrasion. Guess the lucky snowboarders.

Carnage!!!

2008-03-19T17:47:00.001-07:00

No – this is not downtown Atlanta or the Texas plains. Its condo no. 101, but we’re about to clean it up real soon. No, seriously, just as soon as I get back from the hot tub.

Really.

No, dude, I mean it.

All is well and (knock, knock) no injuries or illnesses. All are having fun and the folks here in Steamboat are the best. Snow flurries early and bright warm sun the rest of the day. The runs on the top of the mountain are like marshmallows.

Supposed to snow tomorrow.

Seriously.

We're here!!

2008-03-18T22:56:00.000-07:00

Jake sez hi!!

Happy Birthday Shirley / On to Steamboat

2008-03-17T17:52:00.000-07:00

Shirley is my mother in law and I do love her very much. She turned 80 on Saturday. We had a great party.

We land in Steamboat tomorrow!! Woo - Hoo

Sven sez hey.

><> lsa

Behold, the trip looms lllllaaarrrrgge... Hahahahahah!!!

2008-03-12T12:14:00.000-07:00

We play too-day

2007-12-02T06:06:00.001-08:00

Let's rehearse at 4p. Thanks everybody.

Tough luck Mizzou - OU still ........

Revised New Updated Updated Update - November 11th - Rehearsal is ON - new time - 4p

2007-09-29T06:32:00.000-07:00

I am in Austin today so, no rehearsal. Don't lose heart.

J.T. - Sorry about the game yesterday.

Hookem!!
><> lsa

Thanks everybody. Great rehearsal.

2007-09-23T17:58:00.000-07:00

:-) lsa

Caption these photos.

2007-03-12T14:29:00.000-07:00

Caption these photos:

Oh, yeah. Oh, a little back to the left. Yeah, that's it (note the ski pole)...

... yes, they go on your feet.

We've all been pretty wide-eyed; this place is gigantic and the staff couldn't be nicer. A lot of the group has made a trip into downtown Steamboat Springs and that's cool, too.

50 degrees at mid-mountain at noon. We're enjoying some beautiful weather and still doing good. Another great day for the books.

Blessings,

><> lsa

Dear Mom - Weather is beautiful and I am wearing sunscreen.

2007-03-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

I promise....

Don't forget to check photos at
http://www.sierravista.org/skitrip2007/skitrip2007.htm

You can also post comments and mail on this blog.

eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Smooooooooooth......

2007-03-10T15:16:00.000-08:00

We arrived safely at Steamboat today @ 1p. Mountain time, ate lunch, bought groceries, checked in to our (massive) condos, unloaded the bus, and even have time for a few rounds of PS2 Guitar Hero before we get fitted for our sticks and boards. It was really easy - and safe.

Taylah says holla.

lsa - ><>

Thanks Team!!

2007-02-25T09:36:00.000-08:00

Just an note to all the praise teamers who played on Saturday. Well done!!

Thank you and God bless!!

lsa ><>

Zack's truck....

2006-10-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

.... is still running.

Go Choir!

2006-10-01T13:03:00.000-07:00

Great performance, Y'all. I am grateful for all your hard work.

><> lsa

Carly's IPod

2006-09-27T22:17:00.000-07:00

Carly got a new IPod for graduation (along with a few thousand other gifts). Her old one had gotten “weird” as she put it. She left it behind when she went to Texas, filled with a couple of years of downloaded songs. El Cheapo decided “what the hell, surely this thing can be fixed”. Sure enough, after a few weeks with a small company out of Kansas that does nothing but fix IPods, a few more newly purchased accessories, and now I have a “new” IPod.

But it’s still got Carly’s music on it. Thousands of songs.

Before I deleted it all and put all my “good” music on it, I decided to give it a listen – just out of curiosity. Hmmm…well - suffice it to say that it will be a long time before I reformat the thing. Listening to Carly’s IPod is a nice glimpe of our life together before she grew up and left me.

I like Green Day. American Idiot is a great song, and I especially get a grin when they say “fuck” in Boulevard of Broken Dreams (there’s a funny story there). She made me a CD of their songs before I became cool and got an IPod.
I listened to The Ballad of Curtis Lowe thirty years ago when my friends and I spent a Summer getting stupid and puking on our feet before we left for college and/or adulthood.
Phoebe Snow – Poetry Man
What I Like About You by the Ramones
Eyes of Silver – by my number one all time favorite group, the Doobie Brothers.
Veruca Salt, The Pixies – cool.
Aquabats – Magic Chicken nice…

And, of course, a full copy of Freebird and Stairway to Heaven just in case.

I will probably delete the Ashlee Simpson section – sorry.

I’m so glad that my two kids have found their own ways in life and are turning out different from me; but listening to Carly’s IPod reminds me of just how much we have shared, just how much we still have together now and in the future as adults, and just how much (bless their little hearts) they’re like me. It’s hard to get your mind around that sort of thing all the time so I’m glad I have this little metal box full of music to bring me back to those happy times, and to help me see the future.

I got a feeling I’ll be listening to Carly’s I Pod for a long time.
`Cept its mine now.
Same thing.

I pray for you each day dear ones.
Take the world.

I love you two,
lsa

“Ohh ohh, ohh ohh, chicken make me feel so good…Do the popcorn chicken….”

I am SO tired of Paparazzi... grrrr

2006-08-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

OK, here's the photo from the trip. When you're famous, people just jump out and take photos of you all the time and then sell them. Its really tough being so famous.

Now I know how Mel Gibson feels.....
Uh, strike that. I mean now I know how Britney Spears .....
Never mind.

I still had a great time. Ask me back.
><> lsa
P.S. to Ren - in your nose.

I'm planning my next trip to SIX FLAGS!!!

2006-08-09T13:51:00.000-07:00

To the UUMYF'ers

Shalom Dear Ones

You folks are a hoot. A little gullible (especially your leader), but a wonderful group indeed. Thank you for being so friendly and warm to me. Next time I see you, I’ll take you all out and buy us all a great big boogerinn.

I ordered a photo and will post it when I get it.

Walk in the Light!!
I John 1:7
lsa ><>

Next Stop - Palo Duro Canyon

2006-07-06T12:25:00.001-07:00

SVUMCUMFY is taking a trip to Palo Duro Canyon on the 28th. I'm driving the bus.

Yeeeeeee
Haaaaaaa

- ><> - lsa

Cathye and Roy Moon - Bless your heart(s)!!

2006-06-12T21:58:00.000-07:00

When the planning for tour was going on, we found out it was going to be difficult to get the photos from the trip posted on the FUMC website. So I asked Cathye and Roy Moon to help us put them on the internet. Cathye and Roy do tons of IT work at Sierra Vista, our web site, overheads, slide shows, the P.A. system, on and on (and on). They work so hard and I think they actually enjoy it. So, when we got a chance to return the favor of years of warmly welcoming our SVUMC kids to Spirit, Cathye and Roy they stepped up. And they posted hundreds of photos. Sherri Lee did not worry about bandwidth - she took tons of photos.

When I e-mailed Cathye to thank her one more time, I told her about all the teary-eyed moms that hugged me and told me that the photos made the 11 days away from their little snuggumses a little more bearable.

If you know Cathye and Roy - give em a hug. If you don't, tell God thanks for putting them here. They're two of the good ones.

Bless your hearts.
Indeed

><> lsa/cja

Psalm 137 (On the Willows)

2006-06-12T21:29:00.000-07:00

Psalm 137: 1-6.

1 By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion.
2 There on the poplars we hung our harps,
3 for there our captors asked us for songs, our tormentors demanded songs of joy; they said, "Sing us one of the songs of Zion!"
4 How can we sing the songs of the LORD while in a foreign land?
5 If I forget you, O Jerusalem, may my right hand forget its skill .
6 May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth if I do not remember you, if I do not consider Jerusalem my highest joy.

If you’ll remember the story of Jacob and Esau, Jacob came out of the womb hanging on Esau’s heel. He also cheated Esau out of his birthright. Those two brothers reconciled, but hundreds of years later, they had evolved into two tribes, the Israelites and the Edomites. The Israelites were living in Jerusalem, and the Edomites were their neighbor to the South. They were both nations evolved from Abraham, and they both believed in God, but the Edomites didn’t like the Israelites.

Now another nation comes into the story – Babylon.
Where is Babylon today? – try Iraq

Anyway, the Babylonians were pagans. They didn’t know God and I think they worshipped rocks and pieces of wood. They were advanced scientifically, but they were barbarians spiritually. The Babylonians invaded Jerusalem and captured the Israelites and the Edomites just let `em to it. Alas, betrayed by their kinfolks and fellow believers, the Israelites were taken into captivity in Babylon.

Now, after a little while, the Babylonians wanted to party. They wanted to have a little fun. And they had noticed that the Israelites had these neat musical instruments with them - lyres (little harps) made from willow or poplar. The Babylonians prodded them and demanded that they play the songs of Zion – not for worship or to bring glory to God - but for mere pagan pleasure.

“Sing us one of the songs of Zion” they demanded.

The Israelites were heartbroken – they had been betrayed by their cousins – the other children of God.

They had lost their God-given city – Jerusalem
And now, their homes destroyed and in captivity to a pagan people, they were being asked to pervert their one connection with God. The songs of Zion.

Well, instead of bowing and playing for them, they hung up their harps on the same trees from which they were made – the willows or poplar trees. They gave the music back to Yahweh. They remained true to their faith.

Sad story - great ending.

Generations later, a freckle-faced kid with a mean slingshot became King David and when he wrote these wonderful songs called Psalms, he remembered this brave act of honor and obedience to God and he memorialized it in Psalm 137. As you know the Psalms were sung in worship by Jews for centuries. The same as those old hymns of our youth like Amazing Grace, How Great Thou Art, Sanctuary, or All in All. The tune and the words mean much more than just lyrics and music. It is the connection and the background that really give them meaning.

Even more generations later one of King David’s descendants, a man named Jesus, together with his disciples, all being good Jews facing a sad time, reached back to this precious memory for strength and comfort before facing a scary, uncertain time.

They sang a song.

The setting for this song in the musical Godspell is Matthew 26:20-30

20 When evening came, Jesus was reclining at the table with the Twelve.
21 And while they were eating, he said, "I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me."
22 They were very sad and began to say to him one after the other, "Surely not I, Lord?"
23 Jesus replied, "The one who has dipped his hand into the bowl with me will betray me.
24 The Son of Man will go just as it is written about him. But woe to that man who betrays the Son of Man! It would be better for him if he had not been born."
25 Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, "Surely not I, Rabbi?"
Jesus answered, "Yes, it is you."
26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body."
27 Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you.
28 This is my blood of the[b] covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.
29 I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father's kingdom."
30 When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives [emphasis added].

On that dark night, Jesus made it clear to the disciples that this life of fun, healing, and easy miracles was soon drawing to a close. When I read about the disciples and their travels with Jesus’ ministry, I get the sense that it was quite satisfying and fun. It put them in the spotlight – kind of like a rock and roll band on a world tour. They got attention. it was exciting!! I also think that the disciples might have felt great pride about being in the inner circle with the messiah.

But that night, Jesus tells them that things will soon get ugly. Basically he foretells his sacrifice. And he also tells them that they won’t be together again, at least until they’re all dead, at least dead physically. Then he introduces them to a very strange and graphic ritual. And so, in that dark and uncertain time, they sing a hymn together. A song of comfort and lament.

The Bible doesn't say it, but in the play they sing Psalm 137. I think its a very fitting Psalm to sing, too.

I also think they felt a little better after they sang - and remembered.

Throughout the years, when people are sad, or when they miss their friends or family, or when they don’t know what tomorrow will bring, they have sought comfort in song. Songs of the faith. Often the old Christian hymns and songs from their youth. Have you ever done that when you were sad – played or sang a favorite song? It made you feel better, didn’t it? And if it wasn’t a song, then maybe you looked at a photo or thought about pleasant memories of good times, your bonds with friends, and those times when you felt the strong and very real presence of God – right there with you. Exactly like we’ve experienced together these last ten or so days.

In my mind, that’s what Jesus and his friends did when they sang On the Willows.

We all have dark times. Now this isn’t scriptural nor it is the official position of the Methodist church, but I believe that everyone goes through dark times in their life. The fire – a personal hell - horrible lonely times.

But I know, and it is scriptural that:

1. God has a purpose for everything that happens to us (the 3rd chapter of Ecclesiastes),

2. All things work for good when you believe in God(Romans 8:28), and

3. God has a special plan for each of us and a desire to make us more Christ-like through that plan (Ephesians 2:10).

When you go through the darkness or the fire, I pray that you will find comfort in not only the words of the Bible and the songs of King David, but also in the songs that you have and will continue to sing from this wonderful work of art –this incredible ministry we call Spirit.

You must never forget that adversity makes us stronger. Like a sword forged in the fire and hammered and filed to a fine point. You must never forget the many ways that God has spoken to you and touched you during this trip. I pray that you will never forget the awesome anointing of the Holy Spirit that we felt during this trip – especially in Raton and Casper.

Yes dear hijos, I pray that you will never forget the fond memories and the bonds that you have created through Spirit. Memories and bonds that you will never lose. Memories and bonds that nothing and no one can ever take away from you.

And when you go through the fire, when the world tries to rob you of your connection with God (and it will try – I guarantee you). When it seems there is no light and all is dark. When the pagan world tries to make this faith that we hold so dear seem trivial (and the world will try to do that too, I guarantee you again), then remember:

Remember the courage and resolve of the Israelites.
Remember the gift of eternal life given on a cross for you thousands of years ago.
Remember the love and joy that you have shared with this wonderful people.
And remember the face of Christ that you have seen, every day, on each other.

If you will do that, you will not only get through the hard times – you will flourish because of them. And if you really pray and listen for God’s word, and keep your eyes, mind and spirit open to His will, you will come to find that the hard times were part of a wonderful plan for God to do miracles through you.

Jesus sang another hymn in the story – do you know which one?

Psalm 22:

1 My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Why are you so far from saving me,
so far from the words of my groaning?

Even in His darkest hour, Jesus found comfort in the hymns of his youth.

So when you are in a foreign land – I pray that you will find strength in these songs of your youth – songs from a musical called Godspell. I pray that you will be able to sing the Lord’s song – these songs of Zion – all of your days

no matter where you are..
no matter if you’re captive or free.

I pray that you will always remember the wonderful gift of a loving God who will never leave you.

I pray that you will feel His love and Spirit close to you always. But if you don’t:

Then remember the Spirit tour of 2006.
Sing the Lord’s song.
These songs of Zion.

Shalom dear children of God.
Thank you for having me.
I love you.

><> lsa

Thank you Shawn.

2006-06-12T20:50:00.000-07:00

Shawn - your mom loaned me your amp for the Spirit tour. I hope that's OK.

<>< lsa

We're Baaaaaaaaakkkkkk!!!

2006-06-11T21:45:00.000-07:00

God bless Texas!!

And now, a guest blog by Jeff "I have a town named after me in Montana" Bozeman.

Here’s your update!!!

2006-06-11T21:11:00.000-07:00

Due to an unfortunate set of circumstances, Little Sammie Allen is not available tonight. It seems he has come down with a severe case of Chronic Halitosis. Therefore, I will attempt to provide the news of this day’s events.

Hop Sing has Gained Weight:

Sorry Bonanza fans, but Hop Sing has gained weight. The cook at the Ponderosa is now a 200 lb guy with curly hair and a thick Colorado accent, but man can he cook. Great food the whole stay including the Gyros.

Thanks Ben, Hoss, Little Joe, Adam, and, of course, Hop Sing.

Go Rockies!!!

Great Saturday night at Coors field – saw the Rockies beat the Dodgers 12-9. High altitude translates into lots of home runs and deep fly balls. The Rockies dug a 3-0 hole in the top of the first, but evened things up with a three-run homer in the bottom of the 2nd. We got our name on the Jumbo-Tron, too.

These two are waiting for a call from the Rockies front office.

Now we know what the little white thing is – it’s a baseball!

Fun!!

Back to Texas:

On Sunday, the day started very early with breakfast at the Ponderosa. We made our getaway shortly thereafter and headed back to Colorado Springs to retrieve several items that were left behind in the hotel on our first pass through there. While we were hoping to retrieve some wallets and battery chargers, we weren’t leaving that LaQuinta until we had Mrs. Harkey’s makeup kit. She had been without it for nearly a week, bless us ALL.

We had lunch in Raton. Our bus pulled up about 4 minutes behind two busses of boy scouts. Timing is everything. Our stay, therefore, was longer then anticipated. However, we persevered.

At approximately 2:41.36 pm, we crossed the state line and entered the great State of Texas. A great roar filled the bus, which to me, indicates (1) the kids love their state and (2) they were extremely glad to be home.

Showtime

We arrived in Canyon, just a little behind schedule, but completed set up and rehearsals in time to enjoy a great meal by the 5th and 6th graders from their First United Methodist Church.

The show went great. Several of the cast had family members in the crowd. What a pleasant treat. The crowd seemed to enjoy it and appeared to be touched by the message.

On a personal note, you can see that Hannah has really enjoyed having her Daddy on the bus. We, apparently, have grown very close.

Everyone else seems to be having a great time. At least that’s what they tell us. They can’t wait to get home. I think their money supply is running low! These kids have been awesome. Never in my dreams could I have expected they would behave so well. They are pleasant to travel with and have represented their families well. I am extremely proud of each and every one of them. I consider it an awesome privilege to have been a part of this group.

We’ll see you soon.

Big Jeffy Bozeman

Senior service

2006-06-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

Sorry, can't describe it. You just gotta be here.

><> lsa

Friday - Well Boo-Boo, We're Not in Jellystone Anymore.

2006-06-10T13:47:00.000-07:00

Here’s what we left behind this morning:

Here’s where we were 4 hours later.

Other than that, we spent 12 hours on a bus rolling down the highway with a bunch of 90-minute kidneys. We stopped at an Exxon in Dubois Wyoming which had some pretty good pizza and one restroom. If we had a dollar for every time the phrase how much longer was spoken, we could have bought Wyoming. Can’t complain, we knew this was part of the deal when we signed on. Actually, the kids were their usual wonderful selves and it could not have been a better twelve-hour trip across Wyoming in a bus. Then, after a nice dinner at Castle Rock (but no shopping yet) we arrived at the Ponderosa where Ben, Little Joe, and Hoss were most accommodating and the food is good. Joy: They have Nutter Butter cookies for dessert!!

<>< lsa and cja

P.S. – Should see some more photos in a little while. Enjoy!!

By the way, we’re still taking good care of the niños, don’t worry....

2006-06-10T13:40:00.000-07:00

More photos at www.sierravista.org/godspell/godspell.htm

Thursday - Yellowstone

2006-06-10T13:25:00.000-07:00

The gung-ho got up early (5:30 a.m.) and went wolf hunting. Didn’t see any wolves but saw a bear...

...an an osprey eagle and some other neat animals. We had breakfast and toured the park. Saw the Brink – the most impressive waterfall ever,

Old Faithful (nuff said)….

and Yellowstone lake which is roughly the size of New Jersey. The trips to and from were simply breathtaking as well, including a buffalo jam which backed up traffic for a long way on the park road. Tons of buffalo, elk, wild geese, and chipmunks (either that or prairie dogs on vacation) as well as rivers, creeks, hot springs, and bubbling mud pits all over. Thunderstorms on and off both days, including one very impressive bolt of lightning that made Jeff Bozeman jump about a foot and may have affected his undergarments. The food was great and we suffered through a sweltering 65 degrees.

God, you went all out on this place. Thanks!!

We also continue to be blessed by these wonderful and well behaved young people. We’re so fortunate to be able to see the love they show each other.

Prepare ye the way of the Lord.

Indeed.

><> lsa and Keesha

Wednesday

2006-06-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

Left Casper early on Wednesday and made our way into Montana though Billings (big place, actually) and then to the North entrance of Yellowstone National Park – 8 hours on the bus in all. This place is really, really big. After we got into the entrance, we still had to drive 31 miles to get to our cabins. Tomorrow we still have another 30 miles or so to get to Old Faithful.

On the way, we saw:

Antelope
Little Big Horn
Antelope
Casinos
More antelope
Elk
Buffalo
A Beaver
Bluffs or Buttes depending on where you’re from.
The Yellowstone River
Snow on the roadside
A stuffed bear in the back of a pickup, and

According to some of the more watchful folks in the bank of the bus, Elvis was also sighted riding Sasquatch.

Walk in the light!!
><> lsa and Keesha the adult

Happy 18th Birthday Carly Joy:

2006-06-06T23:47:00.000-07:00

Yep, 18 years old, an adult, old enough to vote (and registered, too). Carly hasn’t been home on her birthday since she was 12. Last time Joy and I were with her on her birthday was when she turned 13. We’ll enjoy the day together tomorrow.

Feliz cumpleaños, hija.

Love, Mom, Dad, and Zack.

Casper Wyoming: Just When You Think It Can't Get Any Better....

2006-06-06T23:29:00.000-07:00

Up bright and early and headed from Buena Vista, Colorado to Casper, Wyoming. This was our longest day on the bus so far (but it won’t be the longest bus ride of the trip).

Here's the temperature sign at People’s Mortgage in BV -

I hear its slightly cooler up here than it is back home (“slightly” as in a Honda Prius gets “slightly” better gas mileage than a Hummer.).

We had a quick lunch at Ft. Collins...

and slipped quietly in to Wyoming a little after noon today (mountain time). The sky is very big here and we saw lots of antelope as we drove along. Arrived in Casper to some wonderful hospitality and (hands down, unanimously) the best food of the entire trip……ever. It was a buffet!! Then the folks here packed up some more for us to take to the hotel after we left. We also had one of the best performances ever – a very responsive crowd, great acoustics in a grand old church with a fine old pipe organ. The building was built in the 50’s, but the church itself dates back to 1893 or so and sits right downtown. Even better, their pastor is a Texan. Just couldn’t ask for a better day. When you check out the photos from today ( at www.sierravista.org/godspell/godspell.htm ) you’ll see a snapshot of two girls holding autographed programs and smiling. Yep, we have groupies.

I love this place (but I’m glad its Summer).

Happy Birthday to Claire Bryan (that’s why she’s wearing the princess hat today). Had a birthday cake, too.

Up early and off to Yellowstone tomorrow and I hear we’re going by Little Big Horn on the way. OK Moms: I’m anticipating little or no internet up there so if you don’t hear from us for a couple of days, we’re OK. Don’t fret – just keep praying. We’ll be fine.

Grace and Peace:

><> lsa and Keesha

Posted a few more pix.

2006-06-05T22:04:00.000-07:00

www.sierravista.org/godspell/godspell.htm

Noah's Ark

2006-06-05T21:56:00.000-07:00

OK mom, we all went whitewater rafting and we all survived.

It was another beautiful perfect day thanks to some great planning back in San Angelo and thanks no doubt to your prayers and a merciful Lord.

Arrived at Buena Vista (which in Spanish means good view, and in Spirit Speak means really freezing cold water splashed down the back of my wetsuit) at noon, had some great food including some cool burgers (see below) and some exceptional New York style pizza made by a guy who moved here from Lewisville, Texas (?). Then off to Noah’s Ark, the outfitters for our rafting trip. We were well taken care of by some expert and very personable (and funny) river guides. We couldn’t have asked for better treatment or a more enjoyable outing. We shot some class 3+ rapids and got really wet, too. No mishaps, close calls or sunburn; however, my self-image took a beating after I managed to pour myself into a very tight wetsuit (twice actually, first inside-out and then correctly). Back to BV for dinner and prayers then off to bed.

Tomorrow we’re off for Casper Wyoming and another performance. Don’t spare the prayers, and thanks for the comments on the website.

Walk in the light!!
><> lsa and Keesha

The Best Burgers in Colorado.

2006-06-05T21:53:00.000-07:00

If you’re ever lucky enough to get here, have a burger at K’s Old Fashioned Burgers. The folks are super friendly, the food is great, and when you place your order, instead of a number, you’re given the name of a celebrity. Then when you pick up your food the owner serves it up with a quip about your character (e.g.: Here’s your burger Bob Hope - thanks for the memories).

Here are our new names:

Matt Groth – Terry Bradshaw
Zach Schulze – Michael Jordan
Luke Coleman – and Jacob Harkey - Dan Marino
Andy Taylor – Johnny Carson
Mallory Melott and Kristen Escalona – Bette Midler
Mattie Harper – Martha Stewart
Ashley Simon – Cher
Marilyse Payette – Cameron Diaz
Carly Allen and Audrey Ehrlich – Marilyn Monroe
Stacy Lee – The Andrews Sisters
Brett Wesley – Bob Hope
Braden Walker – John Elway
Sam Allen – Steve Martin

Thanks for the memories – indeed.

><> lsa and Marilyn

Don't forget to check the photos!

2006-06-04T22:11:00.000-07:00

http://www.sierravista.org/godspell/godspell.htm

Two entries today - read em both!!!

The MAN!!

2006-06-04T22:06:00.000-07:00

This is Larry’s 5th trip with Spirit. He’s a dear part of the group and he takes great care of everyone. Larry’s been a wonderful chaperone, mentor, and guardian since 2002 when the group went to Corpus Christi and performed Godspell at the Southwest Texas Annual Conference. The MAN has taken Spirit all the way from to Victoria and South Padre to Washington D.C. and he takes the time to get to know the young people in the group and to be a real part of the tour He’s a Texas native from Austin and he says the high point of his many tours with Spirit was the senior service at Cloudcroft, N.M. in 2004. It’s fun to hear him talk about his past trips and his experiences taking care of groups like us.

We feel very safe with him at the helm.

Thanks and God bless Mr. L. You are loved.

Oh, and happy birthday on Tuesday, too.

Trip report - Day Three - Colorado Springs!!

2006-06-04T22:00:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful day and safe drive to Colorado Springs. We had a leisurely lunch and picked up Luke (no, you’re not my faaaather) who gave us a great tour of the Air Force Academy. We performed well at Calvary UMC here to a very warm and responsive crowd including some great kids from their church.

Then, we descended on a Baskin Robbins and ate a BUNCH of ice cream. Quote overheard at 31 Flavors: “seriously sir, how many are there?”

Tomorrow we go rafting at Buena Vista and I’m not so sure we’ll get online. If we don’t report for a day or so, don’t worry. We’re fine.

But pray for us anyway, just in case.

Much love to all of you from all of us.

><> lsa and Keesha.

Hmmm. He’s in Raton, too…..

2006-06-03T21:29:00.000-07:00

Hello children. Great day today. Traveled from Plainview to Raton, NM – beautiful weather and high spirits. Then….

OK, you know how God’s always doing the paradox thing? You know – the last shall be first, he who exalts himself, he who humbles himself. Well, our arrival in Raton had all the makings of a real downer. Got to the hotel and the power was out. It was still out at the church when we arrived. Looked like we would have to go without all the sound equipment, etc. Then Tony noted that the acoustics in the place were pretty good and it was a small sanctuary (but beautiful - check out the pix @ http://www.sierravista.org/godspell/godspell.htm) so he decides we’re going to do this “unplugged”. Sounds good and off we go.

Then the rumor started that maybe the folks at Raton might have forgotten that we were coming, but we sure couldn’t tell it by the nice folks that showed up (that’s who the strangers in the photos were) and the great burgers they served us. We had a whopping crowd of 22 people, but the performance was simply, well, anointed. Y’know? The songs were strong and the message was stronger. After we were done, the youth pastor of the church gave the benediction and we were all very moved. Sniffle city - I think the kids were as touched by the presentation as the folks who came. And so God did another, uh, God thing.

Y’know?

Eh?

Off to Colorado Springs tomorrow. More prayers please.

Much love from lsa and his sidekick, Keesha.

><> lsa

Off and running..... Day One - Godspell tour

2006-06-02T22:01:00.000-07:00

Hi everybody – greetings from Plainview, Texas.

If you’ll recall the lyrics of the song Have You Seen Jesus my Lord, this is where Jesus is:

Have you seen Jesus my Lord?
He's here in Plainview....

** a-huck **

Photos from today and after may be found at :

http://www.sierravista.org/godspell/godspell.htm

Quote from Tony:

"We made it, first stop done."

(Tony is very tired).

More tomorrow. Keep us in your prayers.

<>< lsa

Spirit/Godspell alert

2006-05-25T15:18:00.000-07:00

I'll try to post some comments here about LSA and Keesha on the Godspell tour. Here's a test photo:

><> LSA

We got powder!!!!

2006-03-09T20:31:00.000-08:00

6" of powder in the last 24 hours. We going skiing, we going skiing!!! eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!

We going skiing!!!!!

2006-03-08T21:16:00.000-08:00

eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11111

Well done dear ones.

2006-02-05T16:50:00.000-08:00

Here's some of what I saw from where I was sitting...............

Ha Ha!!

2006-02-04T21:06:00.000-08:00

We don't have Sunday school this Sunday.

<>< LSA

FYI - Booger offer still good until noon Sunday.

2006-02-03T17:08:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow's Lesson (Revised 2.3.06):

2006-01-28T14:50:00.000-08:00

SUNDAAAAAAYY!

Youth Sunday!! Funny Cars!! Fuel Dragsters.

Sundaaayyy!!!

2006-01-26T10:24:00.000-08:00

Wheaties

2006-01-26T02:21:00.000-08:00

Mom was so proud that the Horns made the Wheaties box.

I will buy you a coke...

2006-01-26T02:10:00.000-08:00

If you come to my Sunday school class and say "booger" on January 29th.

Suuunnnnn --- day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2005-08-21T17:31:00.000-07:00

Program for 05-06:

James?
I John?
Another concept or topic?

Tell meh!!

Back safe

2005-04-11T08:45:00.000-07:00

Ahhh. Home last night (Sunday) safe and sound. Thanks for your confidence, parents. God is good.

LSA

All is well.....

2005-04-08T22:17:00.000-07:00

We arrived in Corpus Christi at 10:45p or so - well fed and in good spirits. After a little room suffling, we're getting into bed at the Ramada Inn on Water St. downtown. Rehearsals begin at 9a I think. The only casualty was Brad's can of Cheese Whiz which seems to have exploded in his backpack all over his headphones.

Now he listens to cheesy tunes.

><> lsa

little sammy allen

A Little Snow... a Little Sun... a little time at the pool...... Ahhhhhh.....

Get ready.

Youth Led Worship, Crisis in Egypt. Very similar.

SwTx worship conference

Another One in the Books!!

A Quick Report for Monday….

A successful first day!!!

Be afraid. Be very afraid.

Into the night....

Matthew 17:20 - If you have faith like a mustard seed.....

Pffftttt! College Hills is worse than this!!

Ski Trip 2009 - Day 2.03

Ski Trip 2009 - day 1.5

Now........ to Sunlight. Ahhhhhhhh......

Change??

We're Baaaaaaccckkkkkkkkk!

Maundy Thursday - Do this.

Love and Kisses

Name that abrasion.

Carnage!!!

We're here!!

Happy Birthday Shirley / On to Steamboat

Behold, the trip looms lllllaaarrrrgge... Hahahahahah!!!

We play too-day

Revised New Updated Updated Update - November 11th - Rehearsal is ON - new time - 4p

Thanks everybody. Great rehearsal.

Caption these photos.

Dear Mom - Weather is beautiful and I am wearing sunscreen.

Smooooooooooth......

Thanks Team!!

Zack's truck....

Go Choir!

Carly's IPod

I am SO tired of Paparazzi... *grrrr*

I'm planning my next trip to SIX FLAGS!!!

Next Stop - Palo Duro Canyon

Cathye and Roy Moon - Bless your heart(s)!!

Psalm 137 (On the Willows)

Thank you Shawn.

We're Baaaaaaaaakkkkkk!!!

Here’s your update!!!

Senior service

Friday - Well Boo-Boo, We're Not in Jellystone Anymore.

By the way, we’re still taking good care of the niños, don’t worry....

Thursday - Yellowstone

Wednesday

Happy 18th Birthday Carly Joy:

Casper Wyoming: Just When You Think It Can't Get Any Better....

Posted a few more pix.

Noah's Ark

The Best Burgers in Colorado.

Don't forget to check the photos!

The MAN!!

Trip report - Day Three - Colorado Springs!!

Hmmm. He’s in Raton, too…..

Off and running..... Day One - Godspell tour

Spirit/Godspell alert

We got powder!!!!

We going skiing!!!!!

Well done dear ones.

Ha Ha!!

FYI - Booger offer still good until noon Sunday.

Tomorrow's Lesson (Revised 2.3.06):

Wheaties

I will buy you a coke...

Suuunnnnn --- day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Back safe

All is well.....

I am SO tired of Paparazzi... grrrr