It has been a whirlwind the past few days.  Thursday and Friday all the staff and I attended Catalyst in Atlanta.  It was awesome.  I'll share some things I learned on Wednesday and Thursday.  Saturday I fished all morning (caught a variety of fish) and attended my buddies Dad's visitation.  Sunday was a little more stressful than usual because Eddie Cox (Pastor at Marathon) evaluated us.  I wanted someone who has taken a church form 0 to over 2,000 to come in and observe everything we do, including me.  Left our two services and went to lunch with Eddie.  He had some incredible ideas for our church in regards to reaching more people.  Went to Clemson and got the grill for cooking burgers for the Easley High teachers today.  Soon as I got home Deb put me to work getting stuff ready for our home group.  The last couple left at 9:00.  Just got back form taking the extra burgers to Home of the Heart and returning the grill to Clemson.  So, sorry I haven't been writing.  I'll be back on a regular schedule now.

Thoughts on Sunday:
* We discussed judging others.  Tough topic for all of us. 
* People were really into the message.  I think because all of us are quick to judge.  Remember, the level in which we judge we will be judged.  Hard truth to swallow.
* A lot of positive comments about American Jesus series.
* Loved the solo Courtney finished with.  Oh so true, we need to look in the mirror and quit worrying about others.
* I love worshiping with our band.  Eddie was very complimentary of them but had a few suggestions for them also.
* Lawson and Michelle were out of town but everything in the Kid Zone seemed to go really well.  Great job volunteers.
* Eddie was very impressed with what we do with out kids.  He understands running out of room. 
* Attendance was down close to 150 people.  I guess with the holiday (no school on Monday) and so many sick.  Glad all those who showed up were here to worship.
* Dwain and the youth had a great service. 
* So thankful God is blessing this church in such an incredible way.

Some other thoughts:
* It is time to really start bringing in the candy.  On October 31st we'll have thousands of children come through our parking lot.  We want to give them a safe alternative to Halloween.
* We need hundreds of volunteers for that night.  Get signed up on Sunday morning or call the church at 850-0580 and ask for Ann.
* American Jesus will continue a few more weeks due to the positive response.  Jesus is never a bad topic.  People are learning so much about who Jesus is and what he expects from us.
* If you were here yesterday you know I have begun my own Biggest Loser and will begin posting the video each Tuesday.  I just weighed in and Corey is editing the video for the first Tuesday showing.  I am sick and tired of talking about it, the weight is coming off and all of you will be holding me accountable.
* Gotta get started on Sunday morning.  Be here before you know it and I can't wait!