Dear Parents,
Just a note about the THC schedule the next few weeks... the Tree House Club will meet next week, the 18th, as usual at 9:30 and 11:00 am.
On Christmas Eve, we will have two identical services. The first, takes place at 5:00 and the second at 6:30 pm. THC children will attend the adult worship service with their families.
Finally, New Years Day-the "baton pass," THC children will attend the adult service with parents at our one and only service, 11:00 am. Afterward, we will all eat black-eyed peas/ham and corn bread together to celebrate the New Year and the next chapter in the life of our church.
Blessings,
Jeannette
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Christmas Program Refreshments
Dear Parents,
Miss Kristy has asked if we would bring refreshments to the Christmas program. I thought it might be helpful for parents if we brought the refreshments to the dress rehearsal, instead of the night of the program. (Because, it should be slightly less chaotic.)
We need each child to bring one dozen treats (on a platter) and one dozen canned, boxed or bottled drinks on Wednesday the 14th, the evening of the dress rehearsal.
We will store them at church and serve them to our guests the night of the performance. (Store bought cookies are perfect, if you don't have time to bake! You can get a whole package of cookies for less than $2.00 at Wal-Mart.)
Please rsvp to let me know that you will indeed be participating in helping to provide refreshments for performers and audience members this year at the Christmas program.
Blessings,
Jeannette Gist
Miss Kristy has asked if we would bring refreshments to the Christmas program. I thought it might be helpful for parents if we brought the refreshments to the dress rehearsal, instead of the night of the program. (Because, it should be slightly less chaotic.)
We need each child to bring one dozen treats (on a platter) and one dozen canned, boxed or bottled drinks on Wednesday the 14th, the evening of the dress rehearsal.
We will store them at church and serve them to our guests the night of the performance. (Store bought cookies are perfect, if you don't have time to bake! You can get a whole package of cookies for less than $2.00 at Wal-Mart.)
Please rsvp to let me know that you will indeed be participating in helping to provide refreshments for performers and audience members this year at the Christmas program.
Blessings,
Jeannette Gist
SPLINK!
Baby Moses
Students began new lessons on the life of Moses and Israel’s deliverance from slavery.
Drag out the baby pictures and talk about each child’s birth. (A few questions to jog your memory: How did you feel when they were born? How fast did you drive getting to the hospital? What did the doctor or other people say? How long did you stay in the hospital? What did you do on the day you brought them home?)
The Pharaoh in Egypt tried to kill all the baby boys, but Moses’ mother put him in a waterproof basket and hid him, while Miriam, his sister watched close by. God cared for Moses and kept him alive, even allowing Moses’ mother to take care of him until he went to live in the palace with Pharaoh’s daughter.
Deuteronomy 7:9
Students started memorizing Deuteronomy 7:9. (Because we offer the Bible verse in several versions, ask your kids if their teachers sent home a copy of the verse; hopefully, it arrived at your house.)
Deuteronomy 7:9 has such great truths to memorize about God.
Read it aloud and ask:
What does this verse tell us about God? (He is faithful, He keeps His word, He shows mercy and kindness to those who love Him and keep His commandments)
What does it mean to be faithful? (To be devoted to, to be loyal, to be true to one’s word)
Write the words of the verse on a piece of construction paper and post it on the fridge. Divide the verse into phrases and assign each member of the family one phrase to say—one after the other—like dominoes. Say it several times until the verse is starting to sink in.
Say a prayer of thanks that God cares about every detail of our lives and faithfully watches over us, just as He did with baby Moses.
Away in a Manger
Items needed: crèche
Straw (can be bought at craft store or could even use yarn)
God lovingly cares for and provides for each of us. One of the ways He cares for and helps us is by giving us a family who does kind things to show they love us. Moses’ family lovingly cared for him and helped save his life.
In the three weeks prior to Christmas, think of ways each family member can care for and help one another. Set up the crèche, but leave baby Jesus out of the picture. Some families make a simple manger (out of construction paper or twigs) and in the weeks before Jesus’ coming, add straw to the manger every time a good deed is done.
Brainstorm ways you can show care and help one another: do a chore together, make someone’s bed, play a game, read a book to a younger sibling, let someone else pick the TV show, help pick up toys, clear the table, etc.
Read Matthew 25:34-40 where Jesus tells us that showing kindness to others is like showing kindness to Him.
Hopefully, by Christmas morning you will have a nice pile of straw and you can add baby Jesus to the crèche.
Students began new lessons on the life of Moses and Israel’s deliverance from slavery.
Drag out the baby pictures and talk about each child’s birth. (A few questions to jog your memory: How did you feel when they were born? How fast did you drive getting to the hospital? What did the doctor or other people say? How long did you stay in the hospital? What did you do on the day you brought them home?)
The Pharaoh in Egypt tried to kill all the baby boys, but Moses’ mother put him in a waterproof basket and hid him, while Miriam, his sister watched close by. God cared for Moses and kept him alive, even allowing Moses’ mother to take care of him until he went to live in the palace with Pharaoh’s daughter.
Deuteronomy 7:9
Students started memorizing Deuteronomy 7:9. (Because we offer the Bible verse in several versions, ask your kids if their teachers sent home a copy of the verse; hopefully, it arrived at your house.)
Deuteronomy 7:9 has such great truths to memorize about God.
Read it aloud and ask:
What does this verse tell us about God? (He is faithful, He keeps His word, He shows mercy and kindness to those who love Him and keep His commandments)
What does it mean to be faithful? (To be devoted to, to be loyal, to be true to one’s word)
Write the words of the verse on a piece of construction paper and post it on the fridge. Divide the verse into phrases and assign each member of the family one phrase to say—one after the other—like dominoes. Say it several times until the verse is starting to sink in.
Say a prayer of thanks that God cares about every detail of our lives and faithfully watches over us, just as He did with baby Moses.
Away in a Manger
Items needed: crèche
Straw (can be bought at craft store or could even use yarn)
God lovingly cares for and provides for each of us. One of the ways He cares for and helps us is by giving us a family who does kind things to show they love us. Moses’ family lovingly cared for him and helped save his life.
In the three weeks prior to Christmas, think of ways each family member can care for and help one another. Set up the crèche, but leave baby Jesus out of the picture. Some families make a simple manger (out of construction paper or twigs) and in the weeks before Jesus’ coming, add straw to the manger every time a good deed is done.
Brainstorm ways you can show care and help one another: do a chore together, make someone’s bed, play a game, read a book to a younger sibling, let someone else pick the TV show, help pick up toys, clear the table, etc.
Read Matthew 25:34-40 where Jesus tells us that showing kindness to others is like showing kindness to Him.
Hopefully, by Christmas morning you will have a nice pile of straw and you can add baby Jesus to the crèche.
SPLINK!
Baby Moses
Students began new lessons on the life of Moses and Israel’s deliverance from slavery.
Drag out the baby pictures and talk about each child’s birth. (A few questions to jog your memory: How did you feel when they were born? How fast did you drive getting to the hospital? What did the doctor or other people say? How long did you stay in the hospital? What did you do on the day you brought them home?)
The Pharaoh in Egypt tried to kill all the baby boys, but Moses’ mother put him in a waterproof basket and hid him, while Miriam, his sister watched close by. God cared for Moses and kept him alive, even allowing Moses’ mother to take care of him until he went to live in the palace with Pharaoh’s daughter.
Deuteronomy 7:9
Students started memorizing Deuteronomy 7:9. (Because we offer the Bible verse in several versions, ask your kids if their teachers sent home a copy of the verse; hopefully, it arrived at your house.)
Deuteronomy 7:9 has such great truths to memorize about God.
Read it aloud and ask:
What does this verse tell us about God? (He is faithful, He keeps His word, He shows mercy and kindness to those who love Him and keep His commandments)
What does it mean to be faithful? (To be devoted to, to be loyal, to be true to one’s word)
Write the words of the verse on a piece of construction paper and post it on the fridge. Divide the verse into phrases and assign each member of the family one phrase to say—one after the other—like dominoes. Say it several times until the verse is starting to sink in.
Say a prayer of thanks that God cares about every detail of our lives and faithfully watches over us, just as He did with baby Moses.
Away in a Manger
Items needed: crèche
Straw (can be bought at craft store or could even use yarn)
God lovingly cares for and provides for each of us. One of the ways He cares for and helps us is by giving us a family who does kind things to show they love us. Moses’ family lovingly cared for him and helped save his life.
In the three weeks prior to Christmas, think of ways each family member can care for and help one another. Set up the crèche, but leave baby Jesus out of the picture. Some families make a simple manger (out of construction paper or twigs) and in the weeks before Jesus’ coming, add straw to the manger every time a good deed is done.
Brainstorm ways you can show care and help one another: do a chore together, make someone’s bed, play a game, read a book to a younger sibling, let someone else pick the TV show, help pick up toys, clear the table, etc.
Read Matthew 25:34-40 where Jesus tells us that showing kindness to others is like showing kindness to Him.
Hopefully, by Christmas morning you will have a nice pile of straw and you can add baby Jesus to the crèche.
Students began new lessons on the life of Moses and Israel’s deliverance from slavery.
Drag out the baby pictures and talk about each child’s birth. (A few questions to jog your memory: How did you feel when they were born? How fast did you drive getting to the hospital? What did the doctor or other people say? How long did you stay in the hospital? What did you do on the day you brought them home?)
The Pharaoh in Egypt tried to kill all the baby boys, but Moses’ mother put him in a waterproof basket and hid him, while Miriam, his sister watched close by. God cared for Moses and kept him alive, even allowing Moses’ mother to take care of him until he went to live in the palace with Pharaoh’s daughter.
Deuteronomy 7:9
Students started memorizing Deuteronomy 7:9. (Because we offer the Bible verse in several versions, ask your kids if their teachers sent home a copy of the verse; hopefully, it arrived at your house.)
Deuteronomy 7:9 has such great truths to memorize about God.
Read it aloud and ask:
What does this verse tell us about God? (He is faithful, He keeps His word, He shows mercy and kindness to those who love Him and keep His commandments)
What does it mean to be faithful? (To be devoted to, to be loyal, to be true to one’s word)
Write the words of the verse on a piece of construction paper and post it on the fridge. Divide the verse into phrases and assign each member of the family one phrase to say—one after the other—like dominoes. Say it several times until the verse is starting to sink in.
Say a prayer of thanks that God cares about every detail of our lives and faithfully watches over us, just as He did with baby Moses.
Away in a Manger
Items needed: crèche
Straw (can be bought at craft store or could even use yarn)
God lovingly cares for and provides for each of us. One of the ways He cares for and helps us is by giving us a family who does kind things to show they love us. Moses’ family lovingly cared for him and helped save his life.
In the three weeks prior to Christmas, think of ways each family member can care for and help one another. Set up the crèche, but leave baby Jesus out of the picture. Some families make a simple manger (out of construction paper or twigs) and in the weeks before Jesus’ coming, add straw to the manger every time a good deed is done.
Brainstorm ways you can show care and help one another: do a chore together, make someone’s bed, play a game, read a book to a younger sibling, let someone else pick the TV show, help pick up toys, clear the table, etc.
Read Matthew 25:34-40 where Jesus tells us that showing kindness to others is like showing kindness to Him.
Hopefully, by Christmas morning you will have a nice pile of straw and you can add baby Jesus to the crèche.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
SPLINK!
SPLINK!
Nov. 27 - Dec. 3
Purpose
What's This For?
While you are cooking, collect an assortment of items such as: cheese grater, pizza cutter, candy thermometer, etc. and ask:
What does it do? What is it used for?
Explain that each item was made for a specific purpose (to grate cheese, cut a pizza, or determine cooking temperature).
God has a specific purpose for each of us. We were created to love and worship/glorify God.
Doing the Job at Hand
Plan a nice dinner and write out each specific job/assignment on an index card or piece of paper needed to make the dinner happen. (Make the salad, decorate and set the table, make a dessert, cook the rice, etc.)
To make it more special, put each job/assignment in an envelope and write each person's name on the front
Give out the envelopes and work together to make the special dinner.
Ask:
Why were we able to have such a nice dinner? (Each person did the job they were supposed to do)
What would have happened if you had not done do your assigned job? (We wouldn't have had that part of the meal)
We all completed the job we were given so we could have a nice dinner.
God has a job/assignment for each of us.
What was Solomon's job? (He was chosen to build the temple where people could worship God.)
Did he complete the job he was given? (He was faithful to complete the job and many people were drawn closer to God.)
When we faithfully do the job God gives us, we will be happier and others may be pulled closer to God.
Our Purpose
Our purpose is to worship/glorify God.
Ask:
How can we do that?
Brainstorm ideas on how to do that:
Serve someone
Give money to the church
Sing a song
Pray
Go to church
Tell others the good news about Jesus
Play a song on an instrument
Help the poor
Draw a picture about God's creation
Read a psalm, etc.
Every morning at breakfast, choose one way the entire family can worship and bring glory to God . . . then do it that day.
Nov. 27 - Dec. 3
Purpose
What's This For?
While you are cooking, collect an assortment of items such as: cheese grater, pizza cutter, candy thermometer, etc. and ask:
What does it do? What is it used for?
Explain that each item was made for a specific purpose (to grate cheese, cut a pizza, or determine cooking temperature).
God has a specific purpose for each of us. We were created to love and worship/glorify God.
Doing the Job at Hand
Plan a nice dinner and write out each specific job/assignment on an index card or piece of paper needed to make the dinner happen. (Make the salad, decorate and set the table, make a dessert, cook the rice, etc.)
To make it more special, put each job/assignment in an envelope and write each person's name on the front
Give out the envelopes and work together to make the special dinner.
Ask:
Why were we able to have such a nice dinner? (Each person did the job they were supposed to do)
What would have happened if you had not done do your assigned job? (We wouldn't have had that part of the meal)
We all completed the job we were given so we could have a nice dinner.
God has a job/assignment for each of us.
What was Solomon's job? (He was chosen to build the temple where people could worship God.)
Did he complete the job he was given? (He was faithful to complete the job and many people were drawn closer to God.)
When we faithfully do the job God gives us, we will be happier and others may be pulled closer to God.
Our Purpose
Our purpose is to worship/glorify God.
Ask:
How can we do that?
Brainstorm ideas on how to do that:
Serve someone
Give money to the church
Sing a song
Pray
Go to church
Tell others the good news about Jesus
Play a song on an instrument
Help the poor
Draw a picture about God's creation
Read a psalm, etc.
Every morning at breakfast, choose one way the entire family can worship and bring glory to God . . . then do it that day.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Deck The Oak
Dear THC Parents,
I hope you are planning to be at "Deck the Oak" tomorrow night! It's one of my most favoritest Live Oak family events. There will be plenty of good food, crafts, family communion, service projects, the Christmas story, family photo opportunities, music and the lighting of the Christmas tree! Be there or be square!
Love,
Jeannette
I hope you are planning to be at "Deck the Oak" tomorrow night! It's one of my most favoritest Live Oak family events. There will be plenty of good food, crafts, family communion, service projects, the Christmas story, family photo opportunities, music and the lighting of the Christmas tree! Be there or be square!
Love,
Jeannette
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Daylight Savings Time!
Dear THC Parents,
Just a friendly reminder from your friends in the THC...FALL BACK! Set your clocks back one hour and change the batteries in your smoke detectors!
Also, rehearsals begin tomorrow evening for the Christmas program.
See you in the morning!
Blessings,
Jeannette
Just a friendly reminder from your friends in the THC...FALL BACK! Set your clocks back one hour and change the batteries in your smoke detectors!
Also, rehearsals begin tomorrow evening for the Christmas program.
See you in the morning!
Blessings,
Jeannette
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Candy Land Update!
Dear Parents,
Here is a little info on our Candy Land fall festival scheduled for 5-7 pm this Sunday October 30th.
*It's back, by popular demand! We've had so many requests, that we simply had to bring the pumpkin carving contest back.
Bring your carved (not painted, etc) pumpkin to the Candy Land fall festival by 5:00 pm for judging. (Pumpkins which are not carved will not be eligible for the grand prize.) Prizes will be given to all participants. We will give a grand prize trophy for the "great pumpkin!"
*In other Candy Land related news, be sure to bring a little cash with you, because the Olde Timer Popcorn Truck will be here selling hotdogs, cotton candy, popcorn, drinks etc... everything is $2.00 each.
*Remember to invite as many people as you'd like. All the games and activities are FREE! Only the food/drinks cost money.
*There is a chili cook-off that will take place, so if you are interested in participating, please see Jenny Findley about that.
* NO SCARY COSTUMES!
*Here are some of the booths you can look forward to...
Gum Drop Toss (basketball)
Football/Tire Swing Toss
Cupcake Decorating
Go Fish in Snow Flake Lake
Chocolate Fountain at the Chocolate Swamp
Tattoos, Face Painting
Make your own Candy Necklaces
Hay Dig
Hay Ride
Choo-Choo Train Rides
Nerf/Lollipop Target Practice
Photo Opportunity at Candy Castle (Bring Your Camera!)
Punkin' Tossin
Paper Airplane Building Station
Gingerbread Houses
*Jenny & I would like to thank... Robbie Bunch from Balloons by the Bunch, for the balloon decorations! All of the small groups and individuals that are hosting booths or helping with clean up and set up. Thank you to Kay Weston, Nancy Muncy, Pamela Dalton, Chas Lutter, Heather LaQuey, Sherry Matthews, Amy Archinal, Cathy Lehtinen and DeAnn Salsky for sharing their talents and creativity on Candy Land! Bless you for blessing our community! :)
Parents, if you have questions, or comments please let me know!
jeannetteg@live-oak.org
Much, much love,
Jeannette Gist
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
CANDY LAND
It's good for us to remember that Live Oak participates in events like Candy Land, because they are excellent excuses to love people and point them to Christ. Thanks for partnering with us by inviting those God places on your heart!
Saturday, September 17, 2011
October Events
HAVE YOU REGISTERED FOR SPLINK?
www.d6family.com
Please do that today!
SAVE THE DATE!
OCTOBER 1, 2011 K-5th grade girls...
We're gonna' wear our favorite jammies, bring a snack to share, invite our besties and get ready to enjoy all the best parts of a slumber party! You know... the food, the games and all the fun! But, we are going to skip all the boring parts. You know... the actual slumbering! (We will go home and sleep in our own beds.) Watch for invitations!
Live Oak's FALL FESTIVAL Committee Proudly Presents "CANDY LAND" Sunday, October 30th from 5:00-7:00 pm
Get ready for a sweet time with family and friends! Invite your friends & neighbors! Make plans to join us!
www.d6family.com
Please do that today!
SAVE THE DATE!
OCTOBER 1, 2011 K-5th grade girls...
We're gonna' wear our favorite jammies, bring a snack to share, invite our besties and get ready to enjoy all the best parts of a slumber party! You know... the food, the games and all the fun! But, we are going to skip all the boring parts. You know... the actual slumbering! (We will go home and sleep in our own beds.) Watch for invitations!
Live Oak's FALL FESTIVAL Committee Proudly Presents "CANDY LAND" Sunday, October 30th from 5:00-7:00 pm
Get ready for a sweet time with family and friends! Invite your friends & neighbors! Make plans to join us!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Splish-Splash-Bash
Dear THC Parents,
This Sunday is the very first small group meeting of the new season. If you haven't signed up for a small group or registered for small group childcare yet, please do so at www.live-oak.org.
Nancy Muncy, (small group childcare coordinator) and I are planning an extra special evening for your children. We will have pizza, popsicles, Capri Sun and water... lots and lots of water! Water sprinklers, water slides, water ballons & water guns! Please bring your children in their swim suits and have them bring a towel and a change of clothes. In case of inclimate weather, we will reschedule the "Splish-splash-bash."
Blessings,
Jeannette Gist
Director of Children & Family Ministries
This Sunday is the very first small group meeting of the new season. If you haven't signed up for a small group or registered for small group childcare yet, please do so at www.live-oak.org.
Nancy Muncy, (small group childcare coordinator) and I are planning an extra special evening for your children. We will have pizza, popsicles, Capri Sun and water... lots and lots of water! Water sprinklers, water slides, water ballons & water guns! Please bring your children in their swim suits and have them bring a towel and a change of clothes. In case of inclimate weather, we will reschedule the "Splish-splash-bash."
Blessings,
Jeannette Gist
Director of Children & Family Ministries
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Dear THC Parents,
Please plan to be here tomorrow night at 5:30, as we eat dinner together as a church family ($2 per person) and celebrate all that God has done in the life of our church, over the summer! The Tree House Club children will not meet separately from their parents this time.
Are any of you doing your SPLINK or FUSION (www.d6family.com) activitites yet? If so... "How's that workin' for ya'?" Please communicate with our team about that. We are excited to learn how you are living out D6 in your family!
Let me know if you have any questions, and may God bless your family BIG this week!
Much love in Him,
Jeannette Gist
Director of Children and Family Ministries
Please plan to be here tomorrow night at 5:30, as we eat dinner together as a church family ($2 per person) and celebrate all that God has done in the life of our church, over the summer! The Tree House Club children will not meet separately from their parents this time.
Are any of you doing your SPLINK or FUSION (www.d6family.com) activitites yet? If so... "How's that workin' for ya'?" Please communicate with our team about that. We are excited to learn how you are living out D6 in your family!
Let me know if you have any questions, and may God bless your family BIG this week!
Much love in Him,
Jeannette Gist
Director of Children and Family Ministries
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
We did it!
We survived the first week of school and now we are well into week two! Hooray for moms and dads and sleepy kids all over Lubbock!
We are looking forward to the launch of our new curriculum this week in the 9:30 am service. If you haven't gone to www.d6family.com to register your family to receive the weekly "SPLINK" e-mails, please do so now! They are free and will greatly enhance your familiy's experience with our new curriculum.
Additionally, here is a head's up on what we are learning our first week.
Our theme- Integrity
Our memory verse for September 4-10 is Psalm 18:30
Our text is Job 1:1-2:10
Our objective- To know important truths about God and stick with them when trouble comes.
In our 11:00 service we will do worship in room 106 and we will learn about missions and participate in a service activity.
If you are traveling this Labor Day weekend, please be safe. We will be praying for you and will be looking for you on the 11th.
Looking ahead... make plans to attend church, Sunday, September the 11th is going to be a special day. Many of our Tree House Club children will be singing in the adult service. Afterward, we will enjoy a presentation from our local VFW chapter. Then, we'll participate, as a group, in a service opportunity for our troops.
Small group childcare also begins September 11th at 5:30 pm. We will be hosting a Splash-Splash-Bash! So, please send your child in his/her swim suit. We will be serving pizza and popsicles and playing with water slides, sprinklers, and squirt guns. You can register and pay on the web-site. www.live-oak.org
Have a great week my friends!
Love in Christ,
Jeannette Gist
We are looking forward to the launch of our new curriculum this week in the 9:30 am service. If you haven't gone to www.d6family.com to register your family to receive the weekly "SPLINK" e-mails, please do so now! They are free and will greatly enhance your familiy's experience with our new curriculum.
Additionally, here is a head's up on what we are learning our first week.
Our theme- Integrity
Our memory verse for September 4-10 is Psalm 18:30
Our text is Job 1:1-2:10
Our objective- To know important truths about God and stick with them when trouble comes.
In our 11:00 service we will do worship in room 106 and we will learn about missions and participate in a service activity.
If you are traveling this Labor Day weekend, please be safe. We will be praying for you and will be looking for you on the 11th.
Looking ahead... make plans to attend church, Sunday, September the 11th is going to be a special day. Many of our Tree House Club children will be singing in the adult service. Afterward, we will enjoy a presentation from our local VFW chapter. Then, we'll participate, as a group, in a service opportunity for our troops.
Small group childcare also begins September 11th at 5:30 pm. We will be hosting a Splash-Splash-Bash! So, please send your child in his/her swim suit. We will be serving pizza and popsicles and playing with water slides, sprinklers, and squirt guns. You can register and pay on the web-site. www.live-oak.org
Have a great week my friends!
Love in Christ,
Jeannette Gist
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Weekend to Remember
Dear Parents,
This is from the folks at Family Life. It is a marriage enrichment event called Weekend To Remember. A number of Live Oak couples have taken part in them in the past and highly reccomend them. Read on for more details.
We now have the hotels locked in for next springs’ WTR’s. Please let your church staff know the following dates to get these posted on your churches calendar to help avoid potential scheduling conflicts:
April 13-15, 2012 Worthington (Fort Worth Renaisssance) ($159 per night)
April 27-29, 2.12 Embassy Suites, Frisco TX ($115 per night)
My records show that you attend Live Oak Community in Lubbock, TX. If the information is incorrect, please let me know. To create your own personal group name, go to www.familylife.com/group, fill in requested information and create your group name (be sure to use a user name and password that you won’t forget). Your group name will be good for one year. . When couples use your group name they will save 50% ($159) per couple and be a part of your group. Couples can attend any WTR in the US and be a part of your group and save 50%. For every 5 couples joining your group, you will receive a free registration that you can use or you can gift to another couple.
If you have couples who can’t wait until next year to attend a WTR, they can attend one of our fall WTR’s. Go to www.familylife.com/weekend and click on state that they might attend to see the fall schedule.
Now would be a great time to order HomeBuilders studies for your small group. Through September 6, all HomeBuilders small group studies and Preparing for Marriage are 25% off! Get started by clicking here. After your group is completed, be sure to invite those in your group to attend a future WTR. This is how Lana and I got to our first WTR 18 years ago. See what can happen by inviting couples to attend.
Again, thank you in advance for your willingness to impact marriages and families for generations to come.
Fighting Alongside You to Strengthen Marriages,
Bob Richardson
Bob
Field Ministry Representative
FamilyLife
800-404-5052 ext 2317
214-618-6462
This is from the folks at Family Life. It is a marriage enrichment event called Weekend To Remember. A number of Live Oak couples have taken part in them in the past and highly reccomend them. Read on for more details.
We now have the hotels locked in for next springs’ WTR’s. Please let your church staff know the following dates to get these posted on your churches calendar to help avoid potential scheduling conflicts:
April 13-15, 2012 Worthington (Fort Worth Renaisssance) ($159 per night)
April 27-29, 2.12 Embassy Suites, Frisco TX ($115 per night)
My records show that you attend Live Oak Community in Lubbock, TX. If the information is incorrect, please let me know. To create your own personal group name, go to www.familylife.com/group, fill in requested information and create your group name (be sure to use a user name and password that you won’t forget). Your group name will be good for one year. . When couples use your group name they will save 50% ($159) per couple and be a part of your group. Couples can attend any WTR in the US and be a part of your group and save 50%. For every 5 couples joining your group, you will receive a free registration that you can use or you can gift to another couple.
If you have couples who can’t wait until next year to attend a WTR, they can attend one of our fall WTR’s. Go to www.familylife.com/weekend and click on state that they might attend to see the fall schedule.
Now would be a great time to order HomeBuilders studies for your small group. Through September 6, all HomeBuilders small group studies and Preparing for Marriage are 25% off! Get started by clicking here. After your group is completed, be sure to invite those in your group to attend a future WTR. This is how Lana and I got to our first WTR 18 years ago. See what can happen by inviting couples to attend.
Again, thank you in advance for your willingness to impact marriages and families for generations to come.
Fighting Alongside You to Strengthen Marriages,
Bob Richardson
Bob
Field Ministry Representative
FamilyLife
800-404-5052 ext 2317
214-618-6462
Pancakes/Promotion & Welcome Kindergarten!
Pancake Wrap-Up!
Hooray for Kindergarten!
It's a big deal for a little person! Transitioning from a classroom in the the Acorn Club ministry to a new classroom in the Tree House Club ministry is worthy of celebration! Your little one is growing up and we are blessed to get to be here for this season of the journey! It's a privilege, we don't take for granted.
We understand that you might have mixed feelings about your little one starting kindergarten. Most of our THC teachers are parents too, and can identify with the range of emotions that go along with milestones like starting kindergarten. We want you to know that we care about you and that we are here to talk with you and pray for you anytime- but especially in this time of transition.
We also want you to know that we are thrilled about having your little one join our ministry. Our teachers love sharing Jesus with children and they are all especially excited about seeing the new faces of your children this Sunday in the Tree House Club! We just know they are going to make our time in the THC so special- just by being here!
Remember that your little one will go to room 109 (the theater room) after Miss Jenny gives him/her a Bible in the adult worship service. Our friendly K-1 teachers and students have planned some engaging activities- sure to help your child connect with his new classmates! If you have questions mom and dad- don't hesitate to ask. That's what we are here for. Serving Christ by helping families is our passion.
Much love in Him,
Jeannette
Pancake/Promotion Sunday was so much fun! We appreciate all the Live Oak Student Ministry and adult volunteers who helped make it such a yummy morning! Team THC hopes that everyone had a great first day of school. We want you to know, we are praying for your families- as we know that new beginnings can be exciting and challenging at the same time.
It's a big deal for a little person! Transitioning from a classroom in the the Acorn Club ministry to a new classroom in the Tree House Club ministry is worthy of celebration! Your little one is growing up and we are blessed to get to be here for this season of the journey! It's a privilege, we don't take for granted.
We understand that you might have mixed feelings about your little one starting kindergarten. Most of our THC teachers are parents too, and can identify with the range of emotions that go along with milestones like starting kindergarten. We want you to know that we care about you and that we are here to talk with you and pray for you anytime- but especially in this time of transition.
We also want you to know that we are thrilled about having your little one join our ministry. Our teachers love sharing Jesus with children and they are all especially excited about seeing the new faces of your children this Sunday in the Tree House Club! We just know they are going to make our time in the THC so special- just by being here!
Remember that your little one will go to room 109 (the theater room) after Miss Jenny gives him/her a Bible in the adult worship service. Our friendly K-1 teachers and students have planned some engaging activities- sure to help your child connect with his new classmates! If you have questions mom and dad- don't hesitate to ask. That's what we are here for. Serving Christ by helping families is our passion.
Much love in Him,
Jeannette
Monday, August 15, 2011
Pancakes, Cotton Candy and 81 Foot Inflatable Obstacle Courses... Oh My!
It's a BIG week in our little Tree House Club!
FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE IS THIS FRIDAY- AUGUST 19th FROM 6-9 PM. LIVE MUSIC, 81 FOOT INFLATABLE OBSTACLE COURSE, COTTON CANDY, TATTOOS- ALL FREE- SO BRING EVERYONE YOU'VE EVER MET! 
Hooray For Pancakes!
This Sunday at 9:30 and 11:00 we are serving pancakes hot off the grill to celebrate the start of the new school year- just as we have done here in the Tree House Club for over ten years, now! Please join us in our annual tradition! Make sure your little one is here on time and brings a friend or two (or three or four...the more the merrier!) Check in to your classroom first and then we will all make our way down to room 106 for breakfast after everyone gets settled in. If your child is entering kindergarten he/she will not "promote" up into the THC until the 28th after the Bible presentation in the adult service that the Acorn Club hosts. Please check with Jenny Findley for details on that.
If your child in entering the 1st grade he/she will go to room 109.
2-5 Boys will be in 107.
2-5 Girls will be in room 108.
If your child is entering the 6th grade he/she is welcome to enter the gender appropriate room in the THC and join the Live Oak Student Ministry at their programs and events and whenever they wish.
We are looking forward to the new school year and all the great things that are happening here at Live Oak this fall. In particular, we are excited about the new curriculum we are launching in September! We are using "D6" which was inspired by Deuteronomy 6:4-9. Please go look it over at www.d6family.com We believe you will like what you see! The strategy of D6 is to strengthen the link between church and home. There are a number of resources available for families including a FREE weekly e-mail called "SPLINK" that contains scriptures to study and suggested family activities/object lessons for the parents to lead. The themes and scriptures will always match up with what we have taught in the Tree House Club. Additionally, quarterly magazines for teens and adults and workbooks children are available for purchase. All of these resources not only make it easy but actually more likely that your family will have regular faith talks in your home.
Please sign up today to receive the free SPLINK weekly e-mail and order as many of the age-appropriate at home resources that you'd like from the D6 web-site.
If you would like to use the at home resources, but feel they are out of your family's budget please let me know. jeannetteg@live-oak.org We have a had a few families say that they would provide these resources for families in our church who need them. I will make sure that you get them if you want them.
On the other hand, if you are a family who would like to bless another family who desires to use the D6 tools that accompany the curriculum, let me know that too. In this economy, I imagine we have a number of folks who would appreciate your partnership in this endeavor.
Our team loves serving your family. Thank you for allowing us the privilege. As always, we invite YOU to join our team!
Much love in Christ,
Jeannette Gist
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
What's Up In The Tree-Hizzy This August
One of our favorite lil guys at the picnic/baptism
August 14th 4:00 in the OC
THC Current and Prospective Volunteer Meeting
Childcare Provided if you RSVP to Jeannette Gist at jeannetteg@live-oak.org
August 14th 5:30 in room 106
THC Parent Meeting
We'll take a look at our new curriculum, talk about fall small group childcare and promotion Sunday!
Childcare Provided If You RSVP to Jeannette Gist jeannetteg@live-oak.org
August 19th
Friday Night Live
BrInG yOuR fRiEnDs!
Kids will have 81 foot inflatable obstacle course, train rides, cotton candy and tattoos!
August 21
Promotion Sunday (the last Sunday of summer break)
Pancake Breakfast in the THC- BrInG yOuR fRiEnDs!
THIS FALL
The THC Needs K-1 TeachersSee Jeannette Gist about serving in your child's classroom once a month.
THC Current and Prospective Volunteer Meeting
Childcare Provided if you RSVP to Jeannette Gist at jeannetteg@live-oak.org
August 14th 5:30 in room 106
THC Parent Meeting
We'll take a look at our new curriculum, talk about fall small group childcare and promotion Sunday!
Childcare Provided If You RSVP to Jeannette Gist jeannetteg@live-oak.org
August 19th
Friday Night Live
BrInG yOuR fRiEnDs!
Kids will have 81 foot inflatable obstacle course, train rides, cotton candy and tattoos!
August 21
Promotion Sunday (the last Sunday of summer break)
Pancake Breakfast in the THC- BrInG yOuR fRiEnDs!
THIS FALL
The THC Needs K-1 TeachersSee Jeannette Gist about serving in your child's classroom once a month.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Baptism & July Summer of Service Events
BAPTISM
If your little one has accepted Christ as his/her savior and would like to follow Him in believer's baptism, please see me. We are hosting our annual picnic and baptism soon and would love for your child to be baptized if he/she is ready. My two oldest children were baptized at the picnic and baptism several years ago and I can tell you, that it was really special to my children and to us as a family to have so many members of our Live Oak community present and supporting my children's professions of faith. I remember watching Alexa-Rae reading "her story." I just kept thinking, "That's my girl! That's my girl!" I imagine that's kind of what God was thinking when was Christ was baptized and He said, "This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased." Matthew 17:5
There is really nothing like knowing your children have embraced your faith and have begun a relationship with Christ. Did you know that THC aged children, statistically, have the best odds they ever will of becoming believers. (32%) After age 14, the percentage that your child will become a Christ follower drops to 6%. We really gotta' "bring our A games" when it comes to passing on our faith to our children, mom and dad! We are working on some exciting things for the fall, that we really think you're going to love, because they will not only help make it easy but, actually more likely that you will have regular faith talks in your home. Stay tuned... :)
POOL PARTIES REPORT
Thanks for attending them!We had such a great time at the THC swim parties on the 26th! The water was cool and such a welcome sight on a day when the temperatures outside climbed above 109 degrees. Everyone enjoyed the fellowship with the kids and our THC teaching teams. Special thanks to the Salsky family for hosting the girl’s luau and to all of our teachers and families for being willing to be available on a Sunday afternoon for some fun and fellowship.
Update on June S.O.S. Dates
Our S.O.S. (Summer Of Service) is well underway! We are having so much fun learning how to serve our neighbors in the Tree House Club. In June, we cleaned, baked and made cards for the residents of the Ronald McDonald House. We also organized the Salvation Army Thrift Store on Slide Road. (Although, I must admit, it was difficult to keep Miss Emily Covington focused with so many shoes to try on and admire!) We got to learn about the important work that these two organizations do, and we were happy to get to be part of it.
JULY S.O.S. DATES
Please consider bringing your family to join us for our July S.O.S. dates! On the 7th, at 12:30, we’ll serve lunch to the summer campers of “The Bridge.” We will be serving them at the park across the street from Bodyworks Family Sportsplex (5217 82nd Street) E-mail Jeannette (jeannetteg@live-oak.org) and tell her whether you’d like to bring a dessert (enough for 10) or beverages (enough for twelve) to accompany our pizza lunch. THC teacher and director of the summer camp at the Bridge, Tommy Burkhead, will tell us about the important work the Bridge does in our community. If you are available in the morning please plan to attend the 9:30 am $1.00 showing of Ramona and Beezus at Tinseltown on 82nd. If you RSVP and let me know you are coming, I'll buy your tickets. :)
July 14th at 11:00 am, we will go back to the Ronald McDonald House to bake and make cards for the residents, again. Please e-mail Jeannette to RSVP. We will go eat lunch afterward.
PLEASE RSVP on S.O.S. dates and movie to let me know you are coming!
Blessings,
Jeannette Gist
Saturday, June 4, 2011
THC June Events
Dear THC Parents,
Here is some information on June events we don’t want you to miss!
Kindergarten-First Grade Swim Party
June 26th 3:30-5:30 pm
The Falls Tennis & Athletic Club 4705 112th Street
Kids Bring Sunscreen, Swimsuit, Towel and a Parent if You’re Not a Strong Swimmer
Refreshments Will Be Served (Lifeguards on duty.)
Must RSVP By June 22 to jeannetteg@live-oak.org 798-5583
2nd-5th Grade Girls Luau Swim Party
June 26 After the Second Service 12:30-3:00 pm
4003 68th Street (Deann Salsky’s Home)
Bring Swim Suit, Towel and Sunscreen
Lunch Will Be Served (Adult supervision, but no lifeguards on duty.)
Must RSVP By June 22nd jeannetteg@live-oak.org 806-798-5583
2nd- 5th Grade Boys Swim Party
June 26th 12:30-3:00 pm
The Falls Tennis and Athletic Club
4705 112th Street
Bring Your Sunscreen, Swimsuit and a Towel
Lunch Will Be Served (Lifeguards on Duty)
Must RSVP By June 22 to jeannetteg@live-oak.org 798-5583
S.O.S.
(Summer of Service)
Join the Tree House Club this summer, as we learn about various needs and service opportunities within our community. We are setting up special service projects designed specifically for kindergarten-5th graders and their parents at a variety of local organizations that welcome children to explore their gifts. Our next opportunity to serve is June 16th at 10:00 am in the Salvation Army Thrift Store located at 1102 Slide Road. We will learn about all the important work the Salvation Army does in our community and we will be blessed to be part of that work, when we help organize the store for shoppers.
Please sign up in the Tree House Club or e-mail Jeannette Gist at jeannetteg@live-oak.org Be watching for July and August opportunities!
Blessings,
Jeannette Gist
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Volunteers
Dear THC Volunteers,
Tonight, we honor you at our First Wednesday Celebration! From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for investing your time on earth into the lives of children and families. I watch you- week in week out- and am inspired by your innovation, dedication and love for Christ and our children. Thanks for serving on team THC. You are making an eternal difference in the lives of families. I love each of you and can't wait to celebrate you tonight at the volunteer dinner.
In Him,
Jeannette
Tonight, we honor you at our First Wednesday Celebration! From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank you for investing your time on earth into the lives of children and families. I watch you- week in week out- and am inspired by your innovation, dedication and love for Christ and our children. Thanks for serving on team THC. You are making an eternal difference in the lives of families. I love each of you and can't wait to celebrate you tonight at the volunteer dinner.
In Him,
Jeannette
Friday, April 22, 2011
WELCOME!
If you are visiting Live Oak Community Church this Easter, WELCOME!
We believe that children and families matter to God and we are thrilled that you are choosing to worship with us this week. If you have any questions, please contact me, Jeannette Gist, director of children & family ministries at jeannetteg@live-oak.org or 806-798-5583 Again, we are SO glad you are joining us this Easter! We look forward to getting to know your precious family.
We believe that children and families matter to God and we are thrilled that you are choosing to worship with us this week. If you have any questions, please contact me, Jeannette Gist, director of children & family ministries at jeannetteg@live-oak.org or 806-798-5583 Again, we are SO glad you are joining us this Easter! We look forward to getting to know your precious family.
Happy Easter 2011!
We hope you've been busy inviting your friends and neighbors to the festivities this weekend. All of our Live Oak staff and volunteers are busy hopping around getting ready for our second annual Vintage Family Easter event. We are looking forward to seeing the Live Oak band perform, participating in Easter egg hunts, choo-choo train rides, face painting, games, hayrides, cotton candy, ballon artists, a costumed Easter bunny, Three Easter centers and the telling of the real Easter story. Everything is free, so bring everybunny you know! ;) Saturday 2-4 pm at 114th/Quaker
Also this weekend... EASTER! Please join us as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ in the Tree House Club. Teachers will share the Easter story and children will enjoy games, crafts and snacks aimed at helping your child connect the concepts from the message.
Blessings,
Jeannette Gist
What you will need:
Bible (or use scriptures listed below – I used New International Reader’s Version for ease of understanding)
1 cup sugar
1 cup whole pecans (You can omit these from recipe, but use them for purposes of the object lesson)
ziploc bag
wooden spoon
Dash of salt
1 teaspoon vinegar
3 egg whites
tape
Preheat oven to 300° F. (Important that you do this before starting the recipe)
Place pecans in ziploc bag and let children beat them with the wooden spoon to break into small pieces. Explain that after Jesus was arrested, He was beaten by the Roman soldiers.
Read: John 19:1-3
Then Pilate took Jesus and had him whipped. The soldiers twisted thorns together to make a crown. They put it on Jesus' head. Then they put a purple robe on him. They went up to him again and again. They kept saying, "We honor you, king of the Jews!" And they hit him in the face.
Let each child smell the vinegar. Put 1 tsp. vinegar into mixing bowl. Explain that when Jesus was thirsty on the cross He was given vinegar to drink.
Read John 19:28-30
Later Jesus said, "I am thirsty." He knew that everything was now finished. He knew that what Scripture said must come true. A jar of wine vinegar was there. So they soaked a sponge in it. They put the sponge on a stem of the hyssop plant. Then they lifted it up to Jesus' lips. After Jesus drank he said, "It is finished." Then he bowed his head and died.
Add egg whites to vinegar. Eggs represent life. Explain that Jesus gave His life to give us life.
Read John 10:10-11
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I have come so they can have life. I want them to have it in the fullest possible way. "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep.
Sprinkle a little salt into each child's hand. Let them taste it and brush the rest into the bowl. Explain that this represents the salty tears shed by Jesus' followers, and the bitterness of our own sin.
Read Luke 23:27
A large number of people followed Jesus. Some were women whose hearts were filled with sorrow. They cried loudly because of him.
Up to this point, the ingredients are not very appetizing. Now add 1 cup sugar. Explain that the sweetest part of the story is that Jesus died because He loves us. He wants us to know we belong to Him.
Read Psalm 34:8
Taste and see that the Lord is good. Blessed is the man who goes to him for safety.
and John 3:16
God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son. Anyone who believes in him will not die but will have eternal life.
Beat with a mixer on high speed for 12 to 15 minutes or until stiff peaks are formed. Explain that the color white represents the purity in God's eyes of those whose sins have been cleansed by Jesus.
Read Isaiah 1:18
"Come. Let us talk some more about this matter," says the Lord. "Even though they are deep red, they will be white like wool."
John 3:1-3
There was a Pharisee named Nicodemus. He was one of the Jewish rulers. He came to Jesus at night and said, "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God. We know that God is with you. If he weren't, you couldn't do the miraculous signs you are doing." Jesus replied, "What I'm about to tell you is true. No one can see God's kingdom without being born again.
Fold in broken nuts. Drop by teaspoons onto parchment paper covered cookie sheet. Explain that each mound represents the rocky tomb where Jesus' body was laid.
Read Matthew 27:57-60
As evening approached, a rich man came from the town of Arimathea. His name was Joseph. He had become a follower of Jesus. He went to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. Pilate ordered that it be given to him. Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth. He placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb. Then he went away.
Put the cookie sheet in the oven, close the door and turn the oven OFF.
Give each child a piece of tape and seal the oven door. Explain that Jesus' tomb was sealed.
Read Matthew 27:65-66
"Take some guards with you," Pilate answered. "Go. Make the tomb as secure as you can." So they went and made the tomb secure. They put a seal on the stone and placed some guards on duty.Now, go to bed. Explain you understand they may feel sad to leave the cookies in the oven overnight. Remind them Jesus' followers felt great sadness when the tomb was sealed.
Read John 16:20-22
What I'm about to tell you is true. You will cry and be full of sorrow while the world is full of joy. You will be sad, but your sadness will turn into joy. "A woman giving birth to a baby has pain. This is because her time to give birth has come. But when her baby is born, she forgets the pain. She forgets because she is so happy that a baby has been born into the world. "That's the way it is with you. Now it's your time to be sad. But I will see you again. Then you will be full of joy. And no one will take your joy away.
On Easter morning, open the oven and give everyone a cookie. Notice the cracked surface and take a bite. The cookies are hollow! On the first Easter, Jesus' followers were amazed to find the tomb open and empty.
Read Matthew 28:1-9
The Sabbath day was now over. It was dawn on the first day of the week. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. There was a powerful earthquake. An angel of the Lord came down from heaven. The angel went to the tomb. He rolled back the stone and sat on it. His body shone like lightning. His clothes were as white as snow. The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. The angel said to the women, "Don't be afraid. I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here! He has risen, just as he said he would! Come and see the place where he was lying. Go quickly! Tell his disciples, 'He has risen from the dead. He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you." So the women hurried away from the tomb. They were afraid, but they were filled with joy. They ran to tell the disciples. Suddenly Jesus met them. "Greetings!" he said. They came to him, took hold of his feet and worshiped him.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Tea Party!
We had so much fun at the THC kindergarten-first grade tea party this afternoon! 
Miss Robin Dulaney hosted us in her lovely home. Miss Anna and Miss Robin shared heart shaped PBJ's, roast beef and pickle sandwiches, pink heart petifours, fruit kabobs and the most fabulous mango tea! We did crafts and Miss Robyn shared a devotion using a variety of different tea cups! Thanks so much to our hostesses and to our sweet little girls for making time to share the afternoon with the THC team!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Snips & Snails/Sugar & Spice
Boys in grades 2-5 are doing a study on what it means to be an honorable boy.
This Week's Lesson is from Joshua 1:6-9, 3:1-17
Scripture Memory Joshua 4:14
Homework... Read Joshua 6:1-27 with your son. Talk about ways in which Joshua was honorable.
After Moses died, the Lord told Joshua he would lead the Israelites. God had instructions for Joshua to obey. In order to be an honorable leader, Joshua had to listen carefully to the Lord and follow His commands.
Girls in grades 2-5 are doing a lesson on our attitudes and what it means to guard our hearts.
The week's lesson comes from Proverbs 4:23
Homework... When you are tempted to complain, stop and make a list of three things you are thankful for. Examine your heart. Ask God to help you notice when your attitude is bad and to change your heart.
Scripture Memory (pick at least one)
Philippians 4:8
Colossians 3:2
Philippians 2:4
Philippians 2:5
Ephesians 4:23
This Week's Lesson is from Joshua 1:6-9, 3:1-17
Scripture Memory Joshua 4:14
Homework... Read Joshua 6:1-27 with your son. Talk about ways in which Joshua was honorable.
After Moses died, the Lord told Joshua he would lead the Israelites. God had instructions for Joshua to obey. In order to be an honorable leader, Joshua had to listen carefully to the Lord and follow His commands.
Girls in grades 2-5 are doing a lesson on our attitudes and what it means to guard our hearts.
The week's lesson comes from Proverbs 4:23
Homework... When you are tempted to complain, stop and make a list of three things you are thankful for. Examine your heart. Ask God to help you notice when your attitude is bad and to change your heart.
Scripture Memory (pick at least one)
Philippians 4:8
Colossians 3:2
Philippians 2:4
Philippians 2:5
Ephesians 4:23
Parent's Night Out March 25th
FUNDRAISER For KILGORIS PROJECT TEAM!
March 25th
6-9 pm
K-5th
6:00 Girls Cheer & Dance Clinic/Boys Football & Soccer Clinic
7:00 Music & Games
7:30 Put on PJ's and learn about children in Africa who struggle to find place to sleep at night. These are the children the team will be working with this summer.
8:00 Movies/Popcorn
$15 per child
Contact Suzie McNelly to register
704-996-7863
smcnelly@sudenlink.net
March 25th
6-9 pm
K-5th
6:00 Girls Cheer & Dance Clinic/Boys Football & Soccer Clinic
7:00 Music & Games
7:30 Put on PJ's and learn about children in Africa who struggle to find place to sleep at night. These are the children the team will be working with this summer.
8:00 Movies/Popcorn
$15 per child
Contact Suzie McNelly to register
704-996-7863
smcnelly@sudenlink.net
Saturday, February 26, 2011
MINT GREEN
Mint Green
On a sweltering August day, in ‘93, Randy and I got some wonderful news! We found out we were expecting our first child. I was just twenty-two years old and we’d only been married a year, but, I had wanted to be a mommy my whole life, so I was ecstatic! Naturally, I couldn’t wait to transform our home into a place that reflected the new life that would soon inhabit the space.
Now, anyone who knows me- knows that I wrestle with the concept of with delayed gratification. So, waiting nine long months to discover the sex of our baby was almost more than I could stand. I wanted-no needed- to shop for that nursery! Randy and I made plans to learn the sex of our baby at my ultrasound appointment at about twenty weeks into my pregnancy. In fact, we’d planned a whole day around this appointment! (10:30 am- ultrasound appointment, 11:00 am- call everyone we know and report “It’s a …girl/boy” 12:00 pm- lunch at the all-you-can-eat Pinocchio’s pizza buffet, 1:00 pm- shop till we run out of money, 2:00 return home. )
However, when the day finally arrived, our baby would not cooperate. (The first of many subsequent episodes that persist to this day) Her little hands were strategically placed over her “girl parts,” thus obscuring the big reveal. The ultrasound technician saw our disappointment and took pity. He told us we could come back at no charge in a week and we would try again. But a week later, we got the same result. And a week after that. And the week after that.
Each time we arrived at the office, hoping to learn more about our baby- to feel more connected to her- to begin calling her by name, to decorate and shop for things that blessed and affirmed the uniqueness of our child as we understood or imagined her to be. Each time, we went home supremely disappointed.
Finally, we (and when I say “we,” I mean “I”) couldn’t take it any longer. We went shopping for the nursery and bought gender neutral bedding and clothing. This turned out to be quite a task. The problem with creating an environment that does not lean toward femininity or masculinity- one that does not offend the sensibilities of either is that it fails to inspire. There were fewer options from which to choose and none of them were all that much fun. We painted the walls and chest of drawers butter-yellow and filled the closet with a sea of mint green sleepers. It was remarkably unremarkable, but at least it was boring.
At my final ultrasound, apparently we caught our stubborn baby off-guard, because the technician placed the wand on my belly and saw what we’d all been desperately seeking for months, “little girl parts.” “It’s a GIRL!” he exclaimed. Randy and I smiled at each other. We were parents of an honest to goodness sugar and spice baby girl! A pink haze fell over our minds and we flashed forward in time to tea parties, dance recitals and even our daughter’s wedding day!
When we returned home, we knew what had to be done. We went right to work disassembling the mint nightmare! We purchased a chalet for our little princess- a stunning round crib with a fairy tale-like canopy. We proceeded to fill that room with every over-the-top, prissy, pink, lacey accoutrement God ever put on this earth. We also exchanged that drab mint green wardrobe because let’s face it; no self-respecting baby would have been caught dead in any of that androgynous garb.
When we sought to create an environment more specifically reflective of gender of our child, we found we not only had more options, but better options. We still used some mint green in her bedding and in her clothing. We just didn’t lead with the mint green/gender neutral concept.
It’s kind of like that with children’s ministry. We try to design programs and environments that will appeal to (and not offend) either sex. The problem with mint green programs and environments is that they are boring, uninspiring and ignore the volumes of research that indicate that- especially at certain ages (second and third grade) boys and girls learn differently. They bond using different methods. (boys through physical activity and girls through language driven activities) They thrive in different environments. (girls in tight cozy quarters, boys in open spaces) Is it any surprise that our teachers spend all their time managing “rowdy” boys and ignoring quiet compliant girls? No wonder teachers get frustrated and kids get bored.
Starting March 6th, we will be attempting to get reduce some of that “mint green” in the Tree House Club.
In the 9:30 and 11:00 services, 2nd- 5th grade girls will go to room 110. (formerly, the Tree House Club storage room)
There, they will enjoy a girlie-girl environment lovingly created especially for them by a team of volunteers. We will use Bible based lessons created with girls in mind. We will have tea parties, get our nails done and do crafts, weekly. The 2nd-5th grade girls will be taught by a team of mature Christian women and their mature teen daughters.
The 2nd-5th grade boys in the 9:30 and 11:00 services… will start out meeting in room 107. In the classroom, we will teach a Bible based lesson, written with boys in mind, and will use a variety of physical activities such as the paper wad free throws, a Nerf gun marksmanship games and other “minute to win it” style challenges designed to get boys moving and bonding through physical activity and team competition. When the weather is nice you will frequently find them on the playground playing Bible baseball and other activities. Their class will be led by a group of mature Christian men (hand-picked by the boys in some cases) who will be assisted by both men and women. However, tea parties and nail polish are strictly prohibited!
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