Hats off to one of our own...

Ever since beginning my work in the church, I've discovered that my introverted self is totally wiped out after leading worship on Sunday mornings. So I've gotten into a routine of coming home on Sunday afternoons, crashing on my couch, and watching whatever football game happens to be on. It doesn't require much energy, and I find myself getting more and more engaged in the game! Before you know it, I will be trying to figure this fantasy football stuff out.

Anyhow, we have an awesome youth at the church (he doesn't share his name on his blog, so I won't share it here) that has an award winning Minnesota Sports blog. His insights are great and there's a good dose of humor to each post. I encourage you to check it out!

http://journals.aol.com/stetsonboy21/MNSports/

Let the football season begin!!! Go Vikes!
-mel

The Big Day

That's my little sister! What a beauty! And that's my new brother-in-law, Todd. He is such a nice guy - it was a joy to see Jamie and Todd so happy. Theirs was the first wedding rehearsal I did over the sound of tornado sirens. There were touchdowns within 15 miles of the church and our home, but we were still able to enjoy hors devours and drinks outdoors. All of the wedding party guests were entertained by The Riverblenders men's chorus, who made an appearance at the rehearsal dinner (which took place in our home basement due to whirling swirling clouds of wind and dust!). The wedding was beautiful - Father Tim sang them an Irish blessing, our youth choir directors from when we were growing up sang The Lord's Prayer, I had the privilege of sharing a meditation with them, and after they did all the important stuff like confirm their vows and life-long committment to one another before God, they recessed out of the sanctuary to the joyful sounds of The Chancers, a live Irish band. Their reception was at a local bed and breakfast, where family and friends were able to dine inside or out - it was a beautiful evening to be outside. There was much music, laughter, and love within the group, and God was surely present within it all. Blessings to both Todd and Jamie as they begin their married life together!
-mel