Lasting Impression Teams - We exist to create a welcoming experience thru serving with excellence

Today is the last day of 2007. I am getting some end of the year chores done and planning some things for 2008. I got all of my Christmas present thank you's out in the mail today. I thank my grandmother for instilling the importance of thank you notes. I got the oil changed in my car, as much as I want a new car, it's not in the budget, so I need to take very good care of this one! I also went to Barnes and Noble
to spend a gift certificate I received from my Mother-in-law as a Christmas present. I purchased a few books from my reading list to get me started off, as well as a new journal and a new devotional.
I want to thank David and Kim for their kind words and assistance/suggestions for a new devotional. David had given me a few samples to look over. I was all set to purchase my own copy of "Streams in the Desert" when just one shelf a way a brown leather book caught my eye. It was "My utmost for His Highest". I flipped thru it and liked the way the entries were setup and a few titles caught my eye. Understand, David had suggested a book by Oswald Chambers, and I was dead set against it - I had tried to read his book "The Call" and I was COMPLETELY lost. Funny - I am really looking forward to my first entry tomorrow.
I will be celebrating New Year's Eve, New York style - in bed by 9:30! Tomorrow is a big day - Rose Parade, Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl (need to be able to converse sports with Rod) and the second annual outdoor hockey game.
Happy New Year to everyone! Be safe and I pray you will have a very blessed 2008.

Posted in: on Monday, December 31, 2007 at at 3:06 PM 1 comments  

Every year, as many of us do, I make resolutions of things I want to change or accomplish in the coming year. I am sure many can relate, after a few weeks, many of these well-intentioned ideas, are forgotten. Maybe this year will be different! I am sharing my resolutions here on my blog, in hopes that I can better stay on track. These are in no particular order....
1. Loose 20 pounds
2. Get on a walking program - this should help with resolution #1. I read somehwere that if your dog is overweight, you're not getting enough exercise. Well, I have 4 overweight dogs - I wonder what that says about me!???
3. Find a daily devotional for 2008. I have gone thru the One Year Bible a few times, and for the past 2 years have used a book called Sacred Spaces. I am looking for something new - any suggestions???
4. To find a healthier way to deal with the stress in my life. Stress isn't healthy for any of us, in my case it makes my disease flare up - usually at the worst possible time(s). The walking should help, but maybe a yoga class???
5. To budget, as a surprise to Ken, a cruise to Alaska in the Spring of 2009.
6. To continue to improve leadership and grow the LIT team. My 2008 reading list should help with this.
7. To make my mark as I serve as the OEM for the 2008 Leadership Summit.

Posted in: on Tuesday, December 25, 2007 at at 8:43 AM 5 comments  

It's about 7Pm and I have been home from church for about 30 minutes. I have gotten out of my "dress to impress" clothes and am coming down from my "serving high". Journey Community Church hosted 3 Christmas Eve Services. It was amazing to see how well each team worked not only as a team, but also as part of the larger picture. The Decorators created a beautiful, welcoming environment. The Greeters wished all guests "Merry Christmas" and made sure they were directed to where they needed to go. Guest Services handed out information to our first time guests. The Ushers made sure all guests had a seat and worked efficiently after each service to cleanup and reset everything in about 15 minutes. Facilities (behind the scene hero's) helped with a lighting challenge, as well as helped to keep the worship center at a comfortable temperature. All of these teams and their leaders communicated clearly with each other, creating an awesome experience for our guests. It was easy to see how each one is passionate about God and about serving Him. I am proud to serve with such a dedicated and faithful group of people. Thank you for all you do; Merry Christmas!

Posted in: on Monday, December 24, 2007 at at 7:15 PM 2 comments  

Several months ago, I heard a song on the radio and automatically thought about the Lasting Impression Teams. As I listened to the words, I could picture certain team members and knew this was a perfect way to honor them. This was a way for me to let them know how much I enjoy serving with them and how much I appreciate their servant hearts. The song is "These are my People" by Rodney Atkins.
I started bugging the team for photos and I kept bringing the camera to church to capture everyone doing what they do best. After several weeks, I had enough pictures and turned the project over to Daniel.
He emailed the final project a few days ago, and I cried when I saw it. He brought my vision to life! I am so moved by this piece, and am touched at what all the team represents each and every weekend. I am privileged to serve with each and every one of you!
This is the link to the video. LIT_Test .mp4 (video/mpeg Object)

Posted in: on Sunday, December 9, 2007 at at 7:47 PM 0 comments  

Although my day still has about 3 more hours in it, I wanted to write about how my day of fasting went. (so far) On my way home Wednesday afternoon, I was contemplating my "plan of attack" for my day of fasting on Thursday. I resisted the urge to eat a huge dinner - I think that turned out to be a good idea! I was also considering what I would fast from and what I would be praying and reflecting on during the day. The upcoming series is about interruptions - so I decided that I would need interruptions at specific times to keep me from eating. I also would be praying about the upcoming LIT party on Saturday. I decided, other than breakfast, I would have nothing but liquid the rest of the day. (due to a small pharmacy of meds in the AM, I must always eat something first thing) So, although I did eat breakfast, it was not what I normally prepare.
So here's how my day went - 9:30 AM - not hungry, 10:30 AM - still not hungry; I am thinking WOW this is easy! Eleven AM and now I am thinking about what I won't be having for lunch. Guess what? God sent the coolest interruption! A previous manager was in the building for a meeting and stopped by right then to see how I was doing. No more thoughts about food! Thanks God for a great visit from an old friend.
Lunch time! I did something that I NEVER do - I left the building and went for a walk. What a beautiful day it was outside. I spent the time enjoying the weather and praying about the LIT party. I have never put on an event of this size and I am worried - will there be enough food, enough drink? Will everyone have a good time? Will it run smoothly? When I returned from my walk I had two urgent issues to deal with as well as a coworker was going home ill. Yeah God! More interruptions to keep me focused. Having to cover for this coworker will keep me busy until 4:30 - quitting time!
I bought myself a treat for the ride home - a small carton of low fat chocolate milk. I thought this would tide me over for the rest of the night, plus I had several last minute errands to run for the party. I got in the car, and opened the milk - yuck! It tasted awful!!! Okay God, I am relying on you to sustain me for the rest of the night. Traffic stinks and I am grumpy. Again, I prayed about the party and all the guests, and reflected on the awesome "interruptions" I've had during the day. Ran my errands and am now unwinding before CSI comes on.
This has been a really neat experience. This was the first time I have ever fasted. I had always thought that fasting meant zero food/water/ect, which is impossible due to my health. Once it was explained to me that there aren't any "rules" about fasting - it's about time with God - that I got on-board!
I am looking forward to an awesome breakfast, but even more so I am looking forward to planning more days like this to learn to rely on God.

Posted in: on Thursday, December 6, 2007 at at 7:17 PM 1 comments  

This week Journey leaders are participating in a one day fast to reflect and prepare for the upcoming series - Interuptions. The first part of the series is Interupting Grumpiness. I can't think of a better topic during a fast, as I certianly get grumpy if I don't eat!! I am setting aside this Thursday to participate. I encourage all of LIT to chose a day this week to fast, then post to the blog aby comments you have about your experience.

Posted in: on Tuesday, December 4, 2007 at at 12:28 PM 0 comments  

Thanks to everyone who submitted an idea. It's been narrowed down to the final three! Which logo should represent the Lasting Impressions Team? Please vote for your favorite Logo.

Posted in: on Monday, November 26, 2007 at at 6:31 PM 0 comments  

Posted in: on Thursday, November 15, 2007 at at 6:51 PM 1 comments  

On Saturday, I had the opportunity to "re-live" the Leadership Summit. Rod hosted a DVD party for the volunteers, so they could see the speakers that they missed while serving our guests. At first, I was disappointed by the "cozy" turnout. But now, being able to go over my notes, I realize if there had been a large turn-out, I would have missed most of it again, since I would have fallen into the roll of serving our guests. (I'm a Martha in case anyone wasn't sure)
Several months ago, in the LIT leadership meeting, I was talking about the Summit and Tom asked me why I enjoyed it so much. Sadly, I don't remember my exact words - but I know I spoke from the heart. Afterwards, and many times since, I have wondered why I do enjoy the Summit so much - after all I serve in a roll that virtually guarantees I see little to none of the speakers!
At first, I thought I was passionate about the Summit because I love to learn and find ways to improve my leadership skills. But again, I go back to the fact that I rarely get to see the speakers - so that can't be why I love the Summit so much.
My answer came today, when I had the opportunity to enjoy Marcus Buckingham. Marcus said "a strength is not what I am good at, but what makes me feel strong".
One of Rod's posts mentioned how impressed he was at the volunteers who helped at the Summit all day, then stayed and helped with Friday night service. (this made for a 15+ hour day for those) I was one of them - and yes I was physically exhausted, but hearing how everyone was enjoying their Summit experience gave me great energy! Another thing Buckingham said was you can recognize your strengths when you get that "yeah feeling". He compared it to hearing your favorite song on the radio - that good feeling you get.
That's how I feel about serving at the Leadership Summit!

Posted in: on Monday, November 5, 2007 at at 6:33 AM 1 comments  

Ever wonder, "How did they do that?" Well, recently several Journey-ites got to find out some balloon secrets. Tom, the Leader of our Decorators Team, hosted a balloon school of sorts. Attendees were treated to Tom's 10 years of experience with balloon decorating. Everyone who attended had the opportunity to create their own display.
Tom is passionate about teaching design; he enjoys helping the students "get" the concept.
Every Sunday, he and his team arrive early to put their talents to work and create a fun and welcoming environment for all who attend Journey.

Posted in: on Saturday, November 3, 2007 at at 6:44 PM 0 comments  

I was listening to "Jesus Bring the Rain" by MercyMe the other day while driving in the rain. I came across this song several weeks ago. It appealed to me because of the encouragement to seek God even in the storms of my life. Hearing it while it was raining made me think about things a bit differently. All living things need water (rain) to survive and grow. I need the rain (storms) in my life to live and to grow; to become who God intends me to be.

Posted in: on Wednesday, October 24, 2007 at at 6:30 PM 0 comments  

I have been involved in ministry at Journey Community Church for about 7 years now. I've gone from ushering on Friday nights, to Friday night Lead Usher, to overall leader of the ushers, to now overseeing and coordinating LIT - our Lasting Impressions Teams - consisting of ushers, greeters, decorators, daily journey and guest services. How did this all start? I was asked! It makes a huge difference (in my mind) that someone went out of their way and noticed me and thought I could help out somewhere. I truly enjoy serving. (I'll save the reasons for another post)
I asked several of our greeters and ushers how they got involved in their current roles and all reported that someone asked them. Many have been faithfully serving in their current positions for years.
In prep for our Easter service, Evonn, the current lead usher, had to recruit additional ushers for our multiple services. She was challenged to step out of her comfort zone and had to actively recruit by word of mouth. (In the past we would recruit via sign-ups from our program) Not only did Evonn staff her services, she learned she had a gift for recruiting! Many of the people that she asked to "help with Easter" had so enjoyed the opportunity to serve, that they now serve routinely.
It's amazing what a difference it makes if you just take the time to ask! I challenge all our team leaders to find one person this week and ask them to serve with you - even if it's just for one weekend service. I think you'll be amazed at the result!

Posted in: on Monday, October 15, 2007 at at 7:35 PM 1 comments  

LIT Christmas Party - December 8th from 6PM-9PM in the cafe.

• Childcare needs - please let me know by November 4th
  
• Photos - I am collecting photos for a display at the party. I am looking for team photos, as well as individual photos - the individual photos need to be when you were a toddler, teen or college age. Need photos by November 15th.
• Please submit your best volunteer stories by November 30th. These are stories about LIT members who did something to WOW our guests. Stories will be shared at the Christmas party.
  

Posted in: on Monday, October 1, 2007 at at 3:27 PM 0 comments  

LIT logo contest. Entries must be submitted to Alex no later than November 4th. Rod will choose the top 3 entries. LIT members will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite via the LIT blog - www.lastingimpressionsteam.blogspot.com during the month of November. The winner will be announced at the LIT Christmas party on December 8th. Rules: the logo should demonstrate what LIT represents - Lasting Impressions - Daily Journey, Decorators, Greeters, Guest Services and Ushers.

Posted in: on Sunday, September 30, 2007 at at 3:19 PM 1 comments