Staff Christmas

Sunday night we had a blast hanging out as a staff. Curtis and Heather (youth ministry) had us over to their house and Curtis cooked a mean steak. (He cooked more than one) We were able to just relax for an evening together. We then had a white elephant gift exchange and played a game that had us all laughing nearly to tears. We also got Curtis and Heather started on watching Lost. One by one our goal of converting the planet to Lost is slowly unfolding.

Adam and I (as paid staff) wanted to be able and honor the other guys/gals who don't get compensation for their staff efforts. We gave both Grant and Curtis cash bonuses (small for what they deserve). Terri is a payed employee but she literally keeps the office going so we got her and heather a day spa treatment. Adam and I also purchased one for our wives as well to join the other ladies on a day out. (We have to watch the kids) Sabrina's birthday was on Sunday (big 30) so the day spa was part of her birthday/Christmas present. The day spa includes a one hour massage, facial, herbal wrap and lunch. Part of the deal for Terri was that she had to take a complete day off to do this and it couldn't be her normal day off. She works many extra hours for Element Church and this was just a small way we could say thank you.

The meal, the gifts, the games, the laughs were only great because of the great people I work with. To think that 6 months ago we didn't know Curtis and Heather existed, now I can't imagine doing this without them. Grant and Terri up and left pretty much all their family had known for YEARS. HUGE risk for them financially and with their family. (Morgan and Nate are amazing young men and should be proud of their parents) Adam and Amber left the only ministry they had known together. The church Adam served in was his home church where he grew up. And here we are, all together, doing our best to hang on to Christ as He leads us on this journey. My wife had to "redo" her nest and replant all her children into a new world. Started a business just to meet people and now helps direct e:kidz.

Grant, Curtis, Heather, Terri, Adam, Amber and Sabrina. You make this thing go round' Thank you so much for being a part of my team. You guys are amazing!