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From Larry, 3/12/08
 
Remember that we will have our ONE AND ONLY LUNCHEON FUND RAISER this next Sunday, MARCH 16TH right after the church service is over!!!
 
This will be our "ST. PATTIES DAY HAMBURGER" cookout!!!  We will furnish everything EXCEPT FOR DESSERTS!!!
 
Each Jr. High member is asked to bring TWO DESSERTS for that day!!!  Anything you want...
 
You are also asked to help with the set up and clean-up afterwards - which is especially important since there will be a wedding shower in the fellowship later that afternoon at 3:00pm!!!
 
If you have them, please wear your GREEN TRIP SHIRT (the one with the dinasaur tracks) - if not then wear another CM Youth Shirt - or something GREEN!!!
 
Since this is our only IN CHURCH LUNCHEON FUND RAISER, please try to get your parents, friends, and everyone you can to come and be on hand!!!
 
Also - THIS FRIDAY, MARCH 14TH, is our next FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS - from 7:00-10:00pm in the youth center!!!  INVITE AND BRING YOUR FRIENDS!!!!
 
Ya'll Take Care,
 
Larry
 
From Larry, 7/26/07
   
So it was decided last night at our youth meeting that we would meet at 6:00pm at the youth center to go as a group to the GALAXY DRIVE-IN in Ennis!!!
 
Cost:  $6.00 per person - and bring spending money for your snacks (if you want any).  You also need a lawn or folding chair - or something to sit on - IF you want to sit outside and not in the church van!  You can bring your PLD (personal listening device) as long as it has an FM receiver - or just park by one of the "old-fashioned" speakers!  We will supply the BUG SPRAY!!!  We also decided that since we're there - we'll do it right and stay for BOTH MOVIES!!!  Make sure everyone knows that you'll be out really late - probably not back until 1:30am!!!!  Still interested????
 
BUT....THAT DOESN'T GET YOU OUT OF SATURDAY'S ALL CHURCH WORK DAY WHICH BEGINS AT 8:00AM!!!!  Especially if you're in the Jr. High!!!  We'll be working upstairs trying to clean up the outside area of the youth center!  We also have several other jobs in the sanctuary and mabye the gutter work, too!!!  Brenda says this will act as our regular Wednesday meeting so - SEE YOU THEN - especially if you're Jr. High UMYF!!!
 
We also decided with all the activity from the last week (painting, etc.) and the drive-in, and the Saturday workday, we will NOT have a youth meeting or Friday Night Lights this week!!!  Instead, the ADULT COUNSELORS WHO WENT ON THE SR. HIGH OR JR. HIGH MISSION TRIPS will have a THANK YOU PARTY on Friday night, August 3rd at 7:00pm in the fellowship hall.  This will be a Mexican/Seafood Fiesta!!!
 
We have scheduled our THANK YOU LUNCH TO THE CHURCH (you know, to say "thank you" for all their support for our fund-raisers throughout the year) for August 12th right after the 11 o'clock church service!  This is a "thank you" so there is NO CHARGE - NO DONATIONS - just come and eat on us!!!  The menu:  MEXICAN CHICKEN CASSEROLE, RICE, BEANS, CHIPS, HOT SAUCE, TORTILLAS (all of which will be provided) - YOU BRING THE DESSERTS!!!!  This is also our Windsor Day, so we will STAY AFTER CLEAN-UP AND GO STRAIGHT TO WINDSOR FOR THE SERVICE THERE!!!  Then - to make sure it's a long day - we will meet again at 6:00pm to go to the service at 1st UMC in Forney - which begins at 7:00pm!!!  And same time the next Sunday, August 12th - 6:00pm to go to 1st UMC in Mabank!!!
 
WHO'S GOING TO THE RANGER GAME ON AUGUST 25TH??????  WE NEED TO KNOW ASAP (AS SOON AS POSSIBLE)!!!!  We have sixteen tickets that were given to us, plus $200.00 in spending cash (in the form of coupons).  We need to get more tickets, but need a definite count in order to do so!!!  Please let us know by this Sunday if you plan on going!!!  And if you say "YES" then you are committed - if you don't go - WE WILL CHARGE YOU FOR A TICKET!!!!  For the adult counselors who want to go - you need to plan to PAY FOR YOUR TICKET (but check with Brenda, Vickie, or Larry 1st)!!!  There is also a CONCERT BY "MERCY ME" prior to the game (and the game starts at 7:35pm)!  We'll let you know what time we will leave from the church (as well as get back).  THIS WILL BE OUR BACK TO SCHOOL PARTY AND OUR LAST FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS UNTIL AFTER FOOTBALL SEASON!!!!
So if you are going - have friends who want to come - LET US KNOW AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!!!
 
SUNDAY SCHOOL - WE NEED YOU THERE!!!  We've also added two new teachers to our youth department:  Jody Penney to teach with Vickie Reed in the Sr. High Department, and Paul Wolfe to teach with Brenda Gonzalez & Keri Nation in the Jr. High Department!!!  Please make the extra effort to get up and get going to Sunday School EVERY SUNDAY!!!  And while you're at it - INVITE AND BRING SOMEONE TO COME WITH YOU!!!!!  They will be glad you did!!!
 
Okay - so the new paint job has been finished in the "game room" of the youth center - the touch up painting in the main room is done, we've cleaned up, straightened up, and Jackie will putting down a new tile floor in the "game room" in the next week!!!  Plans are to get a Play Station 2 (unless someone has one they'd like to donate) and games to go along with it!!!  Any other STUFF you want in there???  Let us know!!!  It is YOUR ROOM after all!!!
 
We all know we're influenced by our friends - BUT NEVER UNDER ESTIMATE THE INFLUENCE YOU HAVE ON YOUR FRIENDS!!!  INVITE AND BRING THEM TO CHURCH SCHOOL, CHURCH, AND ESPECIALLY OUR YOUTH MEETINGS!!!!  Did you know that "church membership" is not necessary to be a member of the UMYF???  You can still be a "Dakota Baptist" and be a member of the United METHODIST Youth Fellowship!!! 
 
As you are all reading "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" - be thinking and jotting down ways that the story reflects what you might find in the Bible, or Christian life!  Brenda may ask questions!!!  (or not)  What do you see in the story as most like the person of Christ???  Let us know!!!  And enjoy!!!
 
 
      
 
 
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Journal Entries from Our San Antonio Trip
July 8 - 11, 2007
July 9th
During this trip I learned that people can have it hard, but it’s up to other people to help them. When you help others, it doesn’t just make them feel better, it makes you feel better as well, and, it fills you with pride that you helped someone else. I’m happy I’m on this mission!
Charli Beck
 
July 10th
This mission trip is the best! I’ve had so much fun. . .I couldn’t believe the faces on the people we helped! Even though it was hard - I’d do it all again.
Lindsey LaPreze
 
July 10th
This is the third day of our trip. And I am so proud of each and every one of the youth! To sing, work and really enjoy the many ways to worship God exhibits each youth on this trip. You touched the heart and soul of another. No matter how small the gesture, you have made the difference to someone else. Thank you all for being a part of my life. You’re ALL AMAZING!
Love, Susie Arredondo
 
July 11th
WOW - what a trip!!! I am so proud of our Jr. High youth and Jr. Counselors! We did work here that no one else wanted to do - weeding and yard work!!! When we were done, the place looked great! Our singing brightened the students day and we can be so proud of that! I especially enjoyed the devotions that the kids did - it’s amazing to watch and learn from these wonderful young people. I’m so glad I got to come!
Love, Ms. Vickie
 
July 11th
We here at MMH thank you so much for blessing our students as well as staff with your JOY OF THE LORD! Continue to sing and work for the Lord.
God Bless You All - Mr. Bash MMH
 
This trip has been an awesome experience. Sea World was pretty fun, but to me - singing for the students of the mission home was the best part! Next to that, John. He is a man, one of the students, that gave us one of his paintings as a thank you gift. He was really sweet, and watching how everyone reacted to it was awesome. It was a lot of fun!
Chelsea Black
 
This trip has been so much fun! It makes me sad though that I have to go to Alabama next week. It made me so happy to see these peoples faces when we sung and presented them with the T.V. money. It was price-less. I’ll always remember this trip and I’ll be back next year!
Sarah Gardner
 
I will definitely never forget this trip! In Port Arthur we helped one person and even though we mainly picked weeds, we affected the lives of many here. They were so appreciative of the little things we did. What I love most about our youth trips, besides helping others in need, is how close we as a youth group become. I love the constant energy! Whether we’re playing basketball or greeting strangers with a “Hi, CMUMC!!!”, there has never been a dull moment. I am ready to get home, but I know I’ll be ready to come back again.
“COLLEGE MOUND - YOU KNOW!!!”
Casey Beck
 
This trip was definitely something that will stay with me all of my life. The one thing I will remember the most is singing to the SCHI Unit here at Methodist Mission Home. I went into it thinking that it was just another thing that Mrs. Brenda was making us do, but when I saw all the smiles and tears on their faces it then became so much more. All the singing and working we did soon became a “want to” instead of a “have to”. Despite our differences, we all worked together and got the job done. The trip was so much fun. I don’t remember a moment where we all weren’t rolling over laughing - I will always remember our “last resort.”
Dakota Brewer
 
This trip this week has been one not to forget! The best part was when our group was singing to all the people at the Methodist Mission Home. I thought it was going to be just a normal run-through of the songs, and the people would just be used to it, but the people were so happy that they were crying. It was a real blessing to see their faces light up. They were even more excited to hear that they would get a new T.V. I hope that we come back next year!
Jake Reed
 
O-M-G this trip has been the bomb! I will never, ever forget this trip! When we sung for tha people it was so awesome because they cried! This was tha best trip of my life! I so want to come bak! This was the best trip EVER!
Shelby Cassidy
 
I will never forget the trip! It was the greatest thing ever.
Haley Colvin
 
This has been so fun! Even the work was sorta fun. Just seeing those peoples happy faces made it all worth while!
Ally
 
July 11th
Numbers 1:14
You guys are the greatest. You worked SO hard in the weeds to clean up for people you don’t even know. I wish you could have seen your own faces when you were shaking hands after singing for the MMH residents. You each had smiles that said more than any song can say. I really believe that they touched our hearts as much as we touched theirs. Several of you showed me blisters on your hands from working with the picks. I believe you began to understand the meaning of the word “sacrifice”. From Lindsey’s face on the steel eel to Haley laughing at the 4D show, I had a blast with each of you. I will miss all of the freshmen who are moving up, but I hope that your time in the Jr. High UMYF has planted seeds where mighty trees will later grow in love and faith.
It’s quiet on the van now - everyone is sleeping. When you guys are sleeping, you look like the angels that I know you are. I love you all!
“You know!”
Ms. Brenda
 
 
thank you letter sent by Larry to Mission Home
 
Once again, I just wanted to THANK YOU on behalf of all of those who attended our Mission Trip this week to Methodist Mission Home! 
 
We also APOLOGIZE - we forgot to give back the key to the gym...so we'll just bring the whole group back on Monday to return it!!!!  No - not really - but we will put it in the mail and get it back to you ASAP!!!
 
Our youth were truly ENERGIZED and ENTHUSED by the visit - and the overall consensus of everyone was that the best time of the trip was getting to be with the residents in the SCHI Unit!  From looking at the pictures of that experience - you can just see their faces GLOW through their smiles!  They will remember that time for the rest of their lives (THEIR WORDS!)!!! 
 
We've talked some already about the trip, and one thing that we want to look into is making this an ANNUAL EVENT!  But - in the meantime, we want to continue to talk about the Home among ourselves, as well as others, and to continue to put Methodist Mission Home before as many people as we can and share what a great place it is and all the different wonderful ministries that take place there! 
 
Okay - I know - you want to say "thank you" for us coming - fine and well - but WE THANK YOU ALL for the continued work day in and day out and for making your profession a ministry of love and care every day!!!  You all are the one's who need to hear "THANK YOU!" over and over again!!! 
 
We will continue to pray for you and all those who are a part of the Home!  We will also continue to do what we can to support the ministry that takes place there! 
 
Thanks again for letting us experience the MISSION that is not only a place, but the people!
 
We WILL be in touch!
 
With all our admiration, prayers, and love in Christ!
 
Rev. Larry D. Davis
Pastor, College Mound UMC
(for our Jr. High UMYF and their counselors - and all our church)
 
From Mary, at MMH
 
Hi Larry,

How is your week going?  I just wanted to touch base again.  You'd mentioned before that you guys could sing, play the guitar and interact with VBS songs for some of our residents.  Do you think this is still an option?  I've asked our Chaplain, Gina Symons, and she said that's a wonderful idea and we might be able to have you sing over lunch one day in the cafeteria.  So if your offer is still open...  Also, some of our students are deaf or hard-of-hearing, so if any one knows sign language, even a little bit, I know the students just enjoy any little gesture. 

I want to confirm a time for your tour.  I suggested Monday before or after you work, but why don't we set up for Monday at 9, 9:30, or 10am.  The week you come I will be 34 weeks pregnant.  I overheat and sweat (it's really not pretty) much easier now, so if we can try to stay out of the heat for the tour I'd really appreciate it.  Let me know what time is best for you guys so I can schedule it.

And don't forget to send me the background checks of your adults over 15. 

Have a great week,
Mary
From Larry, 6/21/07
 
Okay - we're IN!!!
 
Looks like we'll have to take stuff for breakfast - but we've got LOTS OF CEREAL, also pancake mix and syrup (need to take two griddles from the church).  Any other suggestions?
We will also need to print the form and get BACKGROUND CHECKS done on everyone 15 and older....SAFE SANCTUARIES, YOU KNOW!
 
See ya'll Sunday for VBS!!!!
 
Larry
 
From Brenda, 4/16/07
 
Well, just because things have finally slowed down for the Jr. High this week, those of us who were in the pavillion Friday night understand the expression, "The calm before the storm"!  We have so much coming up!
 
4/22 - Decoration Day
5/3,4,5 - Rummage sale (come and help out if you can!)
5/6 - 8th graders will help Sr. High with their Cinco De Mayo luncheon
5/13 - Mother's Day (What's Jake getting Vickie this year?  Jewelry???)
5/20 - Senior's Brunch - We will be hosting and decorating during Sunday School. 
5/27 - Memorial Day
6/3 - Relay for Life
6/10 - Combined lunch and dessert auction and Health Fair
--Senior High Trip--
6/17 - Father's Day
6/24 - Fish Fry and VBS kickoff
7/1 - Red, White and blue Jr. High Luncheon
 
Somewhere in all of this, we hope to work in a bake sale at Wal-Mart and a car wash. 
 
Don't forget to come to Sunday School.  Keri and I have had a lot of fun teaching on your topics!
 
Question of the day - Larry preached on this last week, let's see if you were paying attention...Where does this expression "Doubting Thomas" come from?  There's a prize in it for the person who can explain!
 
Love ya!
Ms. Brenda
 
From Larry, 3/5/07
 
Okay - this Friday is our Friday Night Lights for the Jr. High UMYF - 7:00-10:00pm in the youth center.
 
It will also be an ALL NIGHT CONFIRMATION "PARTY" until 10:00am the next morning!!!!
 
We really need all those who intend to go through confirmation to be in attendance if at all possible!!!  There is a LOT OF MATERIAL to get through in order to do it right!!!
 
Part of the confirmation process is church membership - part of it is baptism (if you've never been baptized) - and part of it is just being aware of who we are as Christians and as a crazy group of people that were pinned the name "methodist" as a JOKE!!!  The name stuck, but it turned out that the joke was on the world, for that's what methodism did - it literally changed the world! 
 
That's still the part each of YOU play!!!  You have the power to change not only your lives, but the world!!!  That's NO JOKE!!!
 
So come this Friday - bring some of your favorite snacks, etc. a pillow or sleeping bag to lounge around on...we'll go all night and into the next morning to catch up our classes!  It won't all be boring - we'll play a few games along the way - watch a movie or two along the way - and maybe even do some more of those crossword puzzles!!!
 
Want to bring your friends???  That's fine - just make sure that they know why you're (and they will be) there!!!  It'll be fun - but there is also a serious side to confirmation!!!
 
If you've been through confirmation already - COME ANYWAY!!!  You can help!!!
 
Also talk with your parents!!!!  Make sure that they understand confirmation is part of the process for not just being baptized, but for becoming a member of the United Methodist Church.  They should be aware of that!  Don't "SURPRISE" them!
 
SEE YA'LL THEN!!!!
 
Larry
 
From Barbara, 2/28/07
 
Shanna and John Rounsavall's new granddaughter was taken to Presbyterian Hospital in Plano---possible pneumonia. Please pray for all.
Love,
Barbara
 
From Larry, 2/26/07
 
This Wednesday will be our next Jr. High UMYF meeting - 7:00-8:00pm in the youth center!!!
 
We also need everyone on hand for our CONFIRMATION CLASS on Sunday afternoon's at 4:00pm!!!!
 
So what's up during Spring Break???  Anybody got plans???  Wanna make plans???  Anything special ya'll like to do???  Let's talk!!!
 
Larry
 
From Larry, 2/23/07
 
It's Jr. High UMYF night for this Friday!!!  Time - 7:00-10:00pm in the youth center.
 
Good news!  Lauren and Jose helped redo the speakers and the video/sound equipment so that they speakers are on the walls and the equipment is in the cabinet where it's supposed to be!!! 
 
I believe Brenda is planning on MOVIE NIGHT - and we have "Facing the Giants" - which is a really GOOD movie (about, what else - FOOTBALL)!!!  but ya'll can decide what you want to watch.....
 
And please remember that our CONFIRMATION CLASS will BEGIN THIS SUNDAY:  4:00-5:30pm in the youth center!!!!!!!!  This will continue every Sunday through Lent with the Service of Confirmation on Palm Sunday, April 1st!!!!  This is for EVERYONE who has not been through a confirmation class!!!
 
See ya'll tonight!!!
 
Larry
News for the week of 1/28/07
 
I know it's hard to think about, but SUMMER COMES TODAY!!!  More specifically, everyone who is interested in having a part to play in this SUMMER'S VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL is asked to stay after church for a few minutes for a brief meeting!!!  A theme - or VBS package - has been chosen and it looks like it's going to be a really RAGIN' WET SUMMER as we look at WATERWORKS PARK, where kids ride the WAVE of Jesus' love!  So come on and jump in - I'm sure the water will be fine!!!!
 
Our first volleyball of the Spring 2007 season will be this Monday night at the Terrell Christian Academy Gym at 8:30pm.  We only have one team this time around, and if you really do want to play, you have just one more week to sign up!!!  Actually, you can sign up to play all the way to the last game - we just like to say that to convince you to start playing before the last game!!!  All games are on Monday nights at TCA.  YOU MUST BE ATTENDING CHURCH SCHOOL OR CHURCH IN ORDER TO PLAY!!!  So....see 'ya in church!!!
 
We will have our LAST TUESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY this week in the fellowship hall at 7:00pm.  This will give us a couple of weeks break before we start in on LENT!!!!
 
This Wednesday night will be a SR. HIGH UMYF meeting the youth center at 7:00pm.  In addition to the Devotion Books, we are also going to be talking more about the SUMMER MISSION TRIP TO THE TEXAS COAST FOR HURRICANE RELIEF as well as our FLOAT FOR MARDI GRAS!!!  And this Friday night will be the Sr. High Friday Night Lights, at which time we will be BUILDING OUR FLOAT!!!  Come on out and HELP!!!  Wooo-wooo!!!
 
Next Sunday, February 4th, will be SOUPer BOWL SUNDAY at College Mound UMC!!!  Immediately following the morning service, the youth department will be hosting an all-you-can-eat lunch featuring Vegetable Beef Soup, Salad, Cornbread, and dessert.  This will all be available for a donation to the youth department.  And whoever heard of SOUP TO GO?  We've got it!!!  We have containers that are appropriate for SOUP "to go"!!!  Take some home to have later - to share with a friend - freeze when it gets really cold outside!!!  We'll also be reporting our profits from the day to the SOUPER BOWL OF CARING organization!!!  If you watch during the game, they will (or are suppose to) say something about the efforts of that day from all around the country!!!  (Don't forget - no evening activities on Super Bowl Sunday!!!)
 
Have you made your reservation for our SWEETHEART DINNER yet???  Day:  Friday, February 9th!  Place:  the fellowship hall of College Mound UMC!  Special:  YOU BET! REAL plates, flowers, candy, and live music (Dorit, Larry, others).  Menu:  Quiche Assortment, Salad, Grilled Steak or Chicken, Green Beans, Baked Potato, and Dessert (Cheesecake).  Cost:  $12.50 per person.  AND - DON'T FORGET TO HAVE YOUR PICTURE MADE IN A ROMANTIC SETTING BY OUR OWN VICKIE REED (it's part of the total cost)!!!!  Tell a friend!!!  Get your reservation in as soon as possible!!! (To Larry or Vickie)
 
 
From Larry, 12/26/06
 
There will be no other activities Sunday evening!!!  HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!  Have a "PEAS"ful NEW YEAR!!!
 
All youth meet on Wednesday, January 3rd - 7:00-8:00pm!!!  To talk about:  SUMMER TRIPS! SOUPer BOWL SUNDAY, accounts, MOVIE NIGHTS, youth center work and improvements, Lay Speaker Training for YOUTH! Projects and RETREATS! etc.!!!!  Everyone come!!!  AND BRING A FRIEND!!!
 
DEDICATION & INSTALLATION OF CHURCH LEADERS ON SUNDAY, JANUARY 7TH!  Our new (and current) church leaders and officers will have a special time of dedication and installation on Sunday, January 7th, during the 11 o'clock service of worship!!!  We will also observe this first Sunday of Epiphany with the "Celebration of the Lord's Supper".  Start off the new year by this special time of renewal and dedication!!!!
 
DAY OF THE KINGS will be observed on Sunday, January 7th at 5:30pm in the fellowship hall as everyone is invited to bring their favorite MEXICAN FOOD for snack supper!!!  In addition, there will be a special "prize" for every child (children's department through youth department) who is in attendance!  We will also have our "chalking" service!!!  Come and join us for snack supper and the DAY OF THE KINGS!
 
Sign up for SNACK SUPPERS!!!  If you'd like to furnish a snack supper on Sunday evening, please sign up for a night beginning January 14th!!!  WE NEED YOU TO VOLUNTEER!!!!
 
On Saturday, January 20th, we will have a special TOWN AND COUNTRY DISTRICT TRAINING FOR NEW LEADERS (and our "old leader" too) at 8:30am - 11:30am at 1st UMC in Kaufman!!!  We'd like to make sure that College Mound UMC is well represented and that we can offer you the training you need to make this the best year, ever, at College Mound UMC!!! 
 
Coming February 4th - SOUPer BOWL SUNDAY!!!  Soup lunch after the morning service!!!  No evening service (maybe we'll be watching the COWBOYS in the Super Bowl!)...
 
Thanks again to everyone who made a donation to the UMYF for the Christmas CD, "Another Evening in December"!!!  If you still would like a CD, please see Vickie Reed, Brenda Gonzalez, or any of the youth!!!  And - once again - thanks to Vickie Reed for the cover design, Dorit Flowers for her lovely and talented voice, the UMYF for their voices in recording two of the songs, and to Tom Atwood for all his hard work in recording and producing the CD - even when he was feeling sickly!!!  Again - this CD is dedicated to all the youth of College Mound UMC!!!  (And if you didn't get a CD from last year, a few of those can still be made available!!!)
 
Interested in playing VOLLEYBALL???  Please let Larry know!!!  Play will begin before the end of January!!!
 
Worship at Windsor - Sunday, January 14th, at 2:30pm!!!
 
 
For Sunday, December 17, 2006
Tonight's the night for "A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS"!!!  This will take place in the pavilion at 6:00pm.  And yes, the whole gang is there:  Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, Snoopy, Sally, Pig Pen, Frieda, Violet, Patty, Schroeder, and little Shermy - along with those cute little "Christmas Dancers" on stage!!! 
 
Following the production, we'll have a special visit from St. Nick (don't forget to get your picture made with Santa)!!! 
 
It's also PARTY TIME, so please bring your favorite Christmas Party Snacks - we'll supply the punch, tea, and coffee!!!
 
OPEN HOUSE AT THE PARSONAGE will be Monday, December 18th, from 5:30-8:00pm!!!  Everyone is invited to come and share this special time with your parsonage family.  The weather is supposed to be a little wet, so we may not get to have our traditional outside chimenaus - but come for some bar-b-que sandwiches, potato salad, baked beans, and lots of traditional goodies!!!
 
The CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS PARTY will be on WEDNESDAY, DEC. 20TH  - 6:00-8:30PM (hot dogs and nachos), We will also be making Christmas Crafts to take home!!!  PASS THE WORD!!!!
 
Wednesday is also the last day to bring your items for our Christmas Care Packages to share with our shut-in's and "special friends"!  If you have cookies, candies, etc. please have them at the church by Wednesday, Dec. 20th!
 
Thursday, December 21st, the UMYF will meet at 2:00pm to deliver our CHRISTMAS CARE PACKAGES!!!  Following all that hard work, we'll come back to the church for supper, and then travel to East Texas for a Christmas Light Tour!!!
 
Friday, December 22nd will be "ANOTHER NIGHT IN DECEMBER" the concert at 7:00pm in the sanctuary.  Special music of the Christmas Season will be provided by Dorit Flowers, the pastor, and the College Mound UMYF!!!  Following the concert there will be a time for refreshments in the fellowship hall!  You can also pre-order the CD, "Another Night in December" or pick one up the night of the concert for a donation to the youth department!!! 
 
Our CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT COMMUNION will take place at 9:00pm in the sanctuary!  What a beautiful and moving way to celebrate God's gift of Christmas - Jesus!  Invite and bring all you can to this very special worship celebration!
 
There will be no evening service on Sunday, December 31st....but come back ready to party on January 7th for our DAY OF THE KINGS FIESTA!!!  Everyone bring your favorite Mexican Foods as we celebrate the arrival of the three kings of Christmas!  There will be special presents for all the children who come!!!
 
It's time to sign up!!!  We need SNACK SUPPER VOLUNTEERS for Sunday nights!!!  Specifically:  Jan. 14th, 21st, and 28th.  February 4th is the Super Bowl - so no evening service. 
 
It's also time to sign up for the SPRING VOLLEYBALL SEASON!!!  If you're interested, please see the pastor!!!
 
Congratulations to our newest graduate - JONI FLOWERS!!!  Joni graduated from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas and will become an elementary school teacher!!!  Way to go, Joni!!!
 
 
 
 
Sent: Monday, December 11, 2006 10:12 AM
Subject: Activities at College Mound UMC

PLEASE NOTE THE NEW ADDITION FOR WEDNESDAY, DEC. 20TH - A CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS PARTY FROM 6:00-8:30PM IN THE FELLOWSHIP HALL!!!  (see below)
 
The schedule this week:
 
Monday - Monday Sunday School at Colonial Lodge - 6:00pm
 
Tuesday - UMW will meet in fellowship hall to sort Christmas Cards (if anyone still has any they need to get out, get them there before then) - in the afternoon
 
Tuesday - 4:00pm - Sr. High UMYF will meet to go to some "Secret Santa Shopping"
                  6:00pm - PLAY PRACTICE FOR A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS...KNOW
                                  YOUR LINES!!!
 
Wednesday - 7:00pm UMW Christmas Party (they will furnish snacks and drinks); Secret
                        Friends Revealed!
 
Thursday - NOTHING!!!! YEAH!!! (Unless we need another practice for Charlie Brown
                   Cast)
 
Friday - Choir Rehearsal followed by Choir Party at the Atwood's
 
Saturday - 1:30pm - Jr. High UMYF Christmas Party
                   7:00pm - Choir Concert
                   8:00pm - Sr. High UMYF Christmas Party
 
Sunday - Choir Concert during 11 o'clock service
                6:00pm - "A Charlie Brown Christmas" (in the pavilion)
                                 All Church Christmas Party - bring your favorite snacks!!!
                                 A Visit from St. Nicholas!!!  (Don't forget to get your picture made)
 
Monday, December 18th - 5:30-8:00pm OPEN HOUSE AT THE PARSONAGE!!!
 
WEDNESDAY, DEC. 20TH - CHILDREN'S CHRISTMAS PARTY - 6:00-8:30PM (hot dogs and nachos), We will also be making Christmas Crafts to take home!!!  PASS THE WORD!!!!
 
Thursday, Dec. 21st - Youth Department delivers CHRISTMAS CARE PACKAGES!!!  2:00PM (Have dinner in fellowship hall - spaghetti!)  CHRISTMAS LIGHT TOUR IN EAST TEXAS!!!
 
Friday, Dec. 22nd - 7:00pm "Another Night In December - the Concert" with Larry, Dorit, the College Mound UMYF, and ANYONE WHO'D LIKE TO DO SOMETHING SPECIAL!!!
Refreshments served in the fellowship hall following the concert.  PRE-ORDER YOUR CD OF THE MUSIC FROM THE CONCERT!!!  (Cost:  a donation to the College Mound UMYF)
 
Sunday, Dec. 24th - CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT COMMUNION SERVICE - 9:00PM!!!  (Yes! there is Sunday School and Church that morning!!! DUH!)
 
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
 
 
Week of December 4, 2006
 
This Week At College Mound UMC:
  Monday - CHURCH NIGHT OUT - 7:00pm at Four Winds Restaurant
  Wednesday - Sr. High UMYF - 7:00pm; Wednesday is also "St. Nicholas Day", many
     people exchange Christmas gifts on this day of the year instead of Christmas Day,
     which is focused on as a Holy Day of worship!
  Wednesday - Soul Sisters - 6:30pm
 
Worship at Windsor December 10th - 2:30pm.  The residents of Windsor Care Center will be visited by the "Spirits of Christmas Present" this Sunday as the entire cast of "A Charlie Brown Christmas" will present their play at 2:30pm in the cafeteria.  In addition, we'll also hand out some Christmas cards and "gifts" to the residents there!
 
The Cast of "A Charlie Brown Christmas" and the Chancel Choir will have a PIZZA PARTY at 4:30pm in the fellowship hall.  There will be no other activities that evening as the day will be spent in rehearsals and preparations for our Christmas Play and Choir Concert!!!
 
The United Methodist Women will host a Christmas Party on Wednesday, December 13th, at 7:00pm in the fellowship hall.  They will also supply the refreshments for the evening.  In addition to several wonderful "presentations", we will reveal this fall's "Secret Friends"!!!  All are welcome to attend!!!
 
This year's Choir Concert will take place on Saturday, December 16th, at 7:00pm in the sanctuary!  This is a great time to invite your friends who attend other churches, as they as usually committed to attend their own performances on Sunday mornings!  It's also a great time to just invite others to come and hear the Christmas story presented in the music of the Christmas Season!  The choir will also present their special again on Sunday morning, Dec. 17th, at the 11 o'clock service of worship!  Please come and support our choir!  They've worked really hard to make this a special gift to everyone!!!  (And check out the Family Calendar section of KLTY's website - 94.9 - we're listed there along with our Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service!)
 
December 17th will be "A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS" and ALL CHURCH CHRISTMAS PARTY!!!   The night begins at 6:00pm in the pavilion with this year's special presentation of "A Charlie Brown Christmas"!!!  Following the play, there will be a "Visit from St. Nick" and our yearly Christmas Party!!!  Please bring your favorite Christmas Party Foods to share with all!!!
 
JUST ANNOUNCED:  "Another Night in December" - the concert, Friday, December 22nd, 7:00pm in the sanctuary!  Refreshments will follow in the fellowship hall!!!  
 
Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion - 9:00pm in the sanctuary!
 
"Friends of St. Nicholas" - you are invited to help out St. Nicholas as we prepare to make gifts available to others this Christmas who might not otherwise be able to provide them for their children or families.  If you'd like to help, please see Sue Hanby or the Pastor.  If you know of someone who needs our help, please let them know!!!
 
PARTY CALENDAR:  if your class or group is having a Christmas party or event, let us know so we can put it on the calendar!!!  Choir Party - Friday, Dec. 15th,  Jr. High UMYF - Sat., Dec. 16th, Sr. High UMYF, Sat., Dec. 16th.
 
It's a busy time, and we've played around with the dates several times, but here's the latest date we've come up with:  OPEN HOUSE AT THE PARSONAGE - MONDAY, DECEMBER 18TH - 5:30-8:00PM!!!  EVERYONE IS INVITED!!!!
 
 
 
From Brenda, 10/25/06
 

We had a SCREAMING good night the other night at our Sunday School party! If you missed it, you should have been there. I couldn't count how many times the girls screamed (especially when the Sr. High busted in and scared us)! What a great time.

We are coming down to the end of our chronological Bible study and will be watching a movie over the next few Sundays. The big question from last week...."Did Judas go to Heaven?" Stop and think about it!

Have you turned in your auction items to Brenda, Pat Miller or Vickie? Let one of us know what you want to donate. Don't forget to give Vickie your shirt size so she can get those ordered. The auction is on November 11th!

If you haven't gotten me your schedule yet, get it to me. We all are working to go out and support each other!

Have you memorized your lines for the play yet? If you don't have any lines, get in touch with Shanna S. to see what you can be helping with for props.

Ideas for the next few months: Christmas parades, attend or participate? Bake sale? Youth Christmas party? Be thinking about when, where and how!

Next Jr. High Youth meeting is scheduled for 11/1/06. We will continue working on self-esteem even as we work on our auction donation.

Question for the week: Who said, "No one can make you feel inferior without your permission?" And, what current movie quotes this line?

 
From Larry, 10/12/06
 
We worked on our music for Sunday's worship service and changed one of the songs (the Call to Worship).  We also decided to KEEP the usual ORDER OF SERVICE with different youth doing the different parts of the service - lead the hymns, affirmation of faith, etc.  It will be the SR. HIGH who speak during the "Sermon".  EVERY SR. HIGH PERSON will be given a chance to speak about what they "get out of/put into their church experience".  We don't have a "who goes in what order" - so just be ready to say what's on your heart.
No one really needs to be cooking in the kitchen during the service except for Felipe, Ron, and maybe Brenda.
We also talked about the need to CLEAN UP THE PAVILION in order to get it ready for the HEALTH FAIR (just won't do to have a "health" fair in a "dirty" building)!!!  If you can come up any time beginning tonight and help clean up, it would be appreciated!!!  The Sr. High especially are asked to come NEXT SATURDAY, OCT. 21ST, at 1:00pm to help clean up.  This is just before you go on your SKATING PARTY FOR THE SR. HIGH SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS PARTY!!!  You'll be going to Garland (at 4:00pm).  It costs $6.00 to get in (skates are extra and price depends on what you rent), food it also extra.  We will talk about going out to eat after.  But for this party - YOU PAY!!! 
At the HEALTH FAIR the youth will do a couple of things:
- SR. HIGH HELP SERVE SALAD LUNCH (money goes to GOLD CROSS)
- JR. HIGH HELP WITH DRINKS AND REFILLS
- EVERYONE HELPS ESCORTING PEOPLE TO THE PAVILION AND GETTING THEM AROUND
- we'll also provide drinks, snacks at the pavilion.
The HEALTH FAIR will be from 12noon til 2:00pm.  If you've never seen a careflite helicopter land - don't miss it!!!
 
Thanks for all you do!!!  YOU ARE LOVED AND APPRECIATED!!!!
 
Larry
 
From Larry, 9/16/06
 
Here's the word - YES there will be a YAM JAM this year.  For those who can go, it is really worth our time - and we get to bring home sweet potatoes!!! 
The reason I forwarded this to all of you is so that you can have the website to look up and see what else goes on besides just the Yam Jam!  So look it up, already!!!
We could even count this as part of our "Souper Bowl of Caring" for the Super Bowl Sunday in Feb. '07!  Just so you'll be getting ready for that, too!
 
So what are YOUR thoughts?  If we can get together four or five or more churches from around the area - what would you want to do?  We had an okay event last August, but the only church that came was Kaufman.  Since our "circuit" group is now meeting, I think that's going to be one of the things the we'll push for a little harder - especially since our District Superintendent wants it!!!
 
Okay - so everyone COME TO SUNDAY SCHOOL TOMORROW!!!  And don't forget at 4:30pm tomorrow we will have our first meeting for A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS!!!!  Following that will be our CHRISTMAS PARTY SNACK SUPPER - please bring your favorite Christmas Party Food AND STAY FOR THE EVENING SERVICE - come on, it's only 30 minutes more!!!!  And think about this:  want to be in the CHOIR????  The Chancel Choir will begin their rehearsals for Christmas after the evening service at 6:30pm!!!
 
This Wednesday - Jr. High UMYF - 6:30-8:00pm!!!!
 
See ya'll tomorrow!!!!!
 
Larry
Sent: Friday, September 15, 2006 1:50 PM
Subject: Yam Jam 06

Despite the drought…

 

YAM JAM  2006

 

Is happening

 

October 28, 2006

 

Golden, TX  (on Hwy 69 between Emory & Mineola) in East Texas

 

9 am to 12 noon

 

Please let me know if you or your group would like to attend.  If you can’t make the Yam Jam but would like to glean this fall, please let me know and we can schedule another time.  I will be sending out a flyer by/on Monday that you can pass or email out to your group or to other friends!  We hope to have gobs and gobs of people this year. 

 

Don’t forget the Golden Sweet Potato Festival for lunch and fun after the Yam Jam!!

 

 

Susie Marshall

Program Director

Society of St. Andrew Texas

P.O. Box 59348

Dallas, TX  75229-1348

(972) 253-4559 ofc

 

From Larry, 9/15/06

"IT'S CHRISTMAS TODAY!!!"  Well - it's Christmas PLAY PRACTICE and CHOIR PRACTICE today at 4:30pm and at 6:30pm!!!  And in between we will have a CHRISTMAS PARTY SNACK SUPPER at 5:30pm in the fellowship hall!!!
We'll begin our play practice for this year's production:  "A Charlie Brown Christmas" at 4:30pm in the Sanctuary!  EVERYONE IS INVITED TO BE IN THE PLAY!!!  We NEED and we WANT "children of any age"!!!
We'll also begin our Choir's practice for their Christmas Musical - so now is the time to come and join your Choir and help them out for this very special time in the life of our church!!!  Choir practice will be at 6:30pm (or immediately following the evening vespers service).
We also invite you to bring your favorite CHRISTMAS PARTY FOODS for our snack supper tonight at 5:30pm in the fellowship hall!  Use your imagination here and your good taste!!!  Dena always liked "sausage balls" - but since she's a vegetarian now, I'll have to make them without "real" sausage!!!  You bring whatever is your favorite Christmas Party Food!!!!
Practice will be every Sunday at 4:30pm for our Christmas Play, and at 6:30pm for Choir practice!!!  Come and join us!!!
 
Guess what?!?!?!  BOTH VOLLEYBALL TEAMS WON LAST MONDAY NIGHT!!!  Team 2 played at the TCA (Terrell Christian Academy) Gym and won in two games!  Team 1 played at the 1st Baptist Church Gym and played three pretty hard games to finally come out with a V-I-C-T-O-R-Y!!!  Ya'll come on out and watch our games!!!  Team 2 will play this week at 7:00pm and Team 1 will again play at 8:30pm!!!
 
Our Tuesday Night Bible Study had last week off due to the E-Terrell event, but we'll be in full swing this Tuesday at 7:00pm in the fellowship hall!!!  Come and join us for our study, "Next Door Savior"!!!
 
The United Methodist Women will have their next meeting this Wednesday, Sept. 20th, at 2:00pm in the fellowship hall!!!  Fall is off to a great start and we hope every lady at College Mound who is able will come and make it to the meetings!!!
 
The Jr. High UMYF will have their next meeting this Wednesday at 6:30-8:00pm in the youth center!  We'll talk about a number of things - maybe even sign a "get-well card" for Dakota Brewer, who broke his arm in his football game and had to have surgery this last week! 
 
Soul Sisters will also have their next meeting this Wednesday, Sept. 20th, at 6:30pm!!!  YES! WE ARE MEETING!  SOUL SISTERS HAS STARTED BACK UP AFTER THE SUMMER BREAK!!!  COME AND JOIN US!!!
 
Don't forget next Sunday afternoon, September 24th, is our FAIR FOOD FESTIVAL!!!  Play practice will be from 4:00-4:45pm and we will have our FAIR FOOD FESTIVAL from 5:00-6:00pm!!!  Sausage on a stick, turkey legs, popcorn, cotton candy, nachos, fries, and CORN DOGS are all provided for you!!!  YOU BRING ANYTHING ELSE THAT YOU ASSOCIATE AS FOODS OF THE "STATE FAIR OF TEXAS"!!!!!  The King's usually bring Belgian Waffles, some of you have brought Funnel Cakes, others have even had a go at FRIED TWINKIES!!!  SURPRISE US!!!  Bring your version of the foods of the State Fair of Texas (we will put out the "bowl" for offerings to help with expenses)!!!  AND INVITE AND BRING YOUR FRIENDS!!!!!
 
Also a word about two other special events coming up on Wednesday evenings:
- CANDY APPLE NITE will be on Sept. 27th from 6:00-7:00pm for all children & their parents; and from 7:00-8:00pm for the Youth Department!  We will supply everything you need and we'll also watch the Disney cartoon about "Johnny Appleseed"!!! 
- BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS service will be on October 4th at 6:00pm in the parking area between the sanctuary and education building.  If possible, please have your animals caged, or on a leash, etc.  This will be a short, but very "interesting" service after the tradition of St. Francis, but adapted from the Book of Worship of the United Methodist Church!  Again, invite and bring your friends AND YOUR FAVORITE ANIMALS!!!!
 
OCTOBER-FEST!!!  Every Sunday in October is a Festival!!!
- We begin with the very meaningful "World Communion Sunday" on October 1st - and don't forget to thank Henri Samuels, who makes a loaf of bread for EVERY CHILD IN THE CHURCH on this special occasion!!!
- The next Sunday, Oct. 8th, is CHILDREN'S SUNDAY, and our entire Children's Department will be in charge of the whole morning service!!!  They will also host a lunch for us following the morning service of worship!
- October 15th will be YOUTH SUNDAY at College Mound as our youth will be responsible for the morning service of worship!  What a dedicated and committed group of youth we have!  You don't want to miss their enthusiasm and energy for worship!!!  The Sr. High UMYF will host an all-you-can-eat HAMBURGER LUNCH immediately following the morning service.  What a great time to invite and bring others to our church!!!
- LAITY SUNDAY will be October 22nd!  I'm surprised to hear many of you ask, "What is LAITY SUNDAY?"  In a nutshell - YOU ARE!!!  Laity Sunday is that time in the life of the church that we celebrate YOU!  The Laity, not the clergy, will be responsible for the morning service and bringing the message of what God has been doing in your lives and in the life of our church!!!  Bob Watson, our Lay Leader, will have a number of you involved in different ways with the service of worship that morning!
- And yes, that afternoon will also be special as we will have a HEALTH FAIR immediately following the morning service!  Sue Hanby and others are working furiously at this point putting a very interesting afternoon together!  There will be blood pressure checks, blood sugar testing, lots of brochures and pamphlets to look at for all sorts of health issues.  We may even have the "Healing Hearts Ministry" girls here!  Afterall, health includes not only physical, but emotional and spiritual issues too!  We may even have some HEALTHY EATING going on for lunch that day!!! 
- October 29th will be the conclusion of our Sunday School Rally Days.  What better time to celebrate our Sunday School than with an ALL SAINTS CELEBRATION!!!  And of course, we will also have our FALL FESTIVAL THAT AFTERNOON IN THE PAVILION!!!
- And while we're at it - let's just remind everyone that November 5th will be our service of "Dedication for the Lord's Acre Auction Items"!!!
We could go on and on, the following after that is our "Celebration Sunday" following the auction!  The Sunday after that is Thanksgiving Sunday and then we're into the Advent and Christmas Season!!!  In other words, every Sunday is a celebration of the presence of Christ in our lives!!!  They are all special!!!  YOU ARE SPECIAL!!!  Please make an effort wherever you go this week to pass that on to someone else!!!  INVITE AND BRING SOMEONE TO SUNDAY SCHOOL AND CHURCH!!!  You might not only help in changing their lives, but CHANGE THE WORLD!!!
Larry
 
HEY GANG! DO YOU KNOW WHAT TIME IT IS???  It's time to tell your nominating committee what job(s) you want to do this coming year as leaders of the church!!!  The forms will be handed out the next couple of Sundays.  Please take the time and effort to look them over and turn them in at the table in the back of the sanctuary!!!  This is so important as we begin to look ahead to 2007 and our Church's Leadership!!!  And we remind you that our "CHURCH CONFERENCE" will be on Tuesday, November 14th, at 5:00pm in the fellowship hall!!!  Please try to be present!!!!  All reports should be typed and handed in before that time!!!
 
Raye Gibson has shared with us the dates and locations for the "Singing Men of Texas".  They will be at First Baptist in Wills Point on January 11th at 7:00pm.  If you can make it, go and hear this wonderful group singing and sharing their faith - and Wills Point is SO CLOSE!!!
 
Snack Supper Volunteers Needed:  Sunday nights in October!!!!  Please sign up today!!!
 
REMEMBER:  SUNDAY SCHOOL MAKES A DIFFERENCE!!!!!!  CALL AND INVITE AND BRING SOMEONE TO SUNDAY SCHOOL THIS WEEK!!!!
 
 
From Brenda, 9/13/06
 
Morning all! 
 
Vickie just e-mailed me to say that Dakota Brewer got his arm (close to wrist) broken in football last night.  Please keep him in your prayers.  As always, pray for all of those in athletic events that they do their best and stay safe.
 
Niko and I went and saw Chris A. play in Terrell on Monday night!  Although his team didn't win, he played really well.  I heard from Vickie that Jake played well. 
 
Don't forget to get us copies of your sports schedules and to go out and support each other when you can.
 
I'm SO excited about the lasagna fundraiser.  We raised $456.  Though we don't get all of that because we still owe several people, it is really a good start.  We were all impressed with the number of Jr. High Youth that turned out to help and at how well you all did. 
 
Our next meeting is Wednesday, September 20th at 6:45.  BE THERE! 
 
Don't forget that Christmas play rehearsal starts this Sunday at 4:30.  And yes, you are in the play.
 
Come to Sunday School and help us plan our Sunday School Party.  So far we've discussed a pajama party and watch movies, possibly going to the State Fair (where we could see Brittany perform), but let me know if you have any other ideas.  Remember, this is a Sunday School event, not a youth function, so you guys each have to pay your own way to whatever we decide on.
 
Don't forget to keep working on your Books of the Bible.  We will still have a party at my house when everyone can say all of their books from Genesis through Revelation.
 
Remember:
"It is not our abilities that show what we truly are... it is our choices."
(Sunday School bonus:  What movie is that quote from and who said it?)
 
Ms. Brenda
 
From Larry, 9/13/06
 
The Sr. High UMYF - under the leadership and direction of Co-President's Caitlin Reed and Casey Beck - will be at 6:45pm - 8:00pm!!!  Please note the time change!!!
 
Some of the things you'll need to talk about are:
- A Charlie Brown Christmas practice begins this Sunday - Sept. 17th - 4:30pm in the sanctuary!
- Christmas Party Snack Supper - 5:30pm - Bring your favorite Christmas Party Foods!
(Some of you may even consider staying for Vespers and Choir - you can join choir, you know - and also be a part of their Christmas program!)
- going to area football games (Terrell, Wills Point, etc.)
-State Fair of Texas???  FAIR FOOD DAY - SEPT. 24TH (how the youth group can help)
- John Chapman's Day - okay, it's really "Johnny Appleseed" and we will have a candy apple making event on Wednesday, Sept. 27th - and watch the Disney cartoon about Johnny Appleseed.
- St. Francis Day - Blessing of the Animals - Wednesday, Oct. 4th - 6:00pm
- YOUTH SUNDAY - OCT. 15TH - Not only do we have a HAMBURGER LUNCH that day, we will also be in total charge of the morning service!!!
- Yam Jam????  - Oct. 28th
- FALL FESTIVAL - Oct. 29th!!!
- LORD'S ACRE AUCTION - shirts, our jobs, ITEMS!!!
 
I will be at the meeting at Country Kitchen, so I will not be with ya'll. 
For singing - you can use the CD from VBS - only need a couple of songs, anyway!
 
And "THANK YOU!" to everyone who went to Windsor last Sunday!  Not only did the residents really enjoy your enthusiasm and spirit - SO DID I!!!  In case you don't hear it very often - I AM PROUD OF YOU ALL (and WE as a church are also proud of you)!!!  What a GREAT GROUP OF YOUTH YOU ARE!!!
 
Larry
 
From Larry, 9/5/06
 
Each person in the Jr. High UMYF is responsible for bringing a "family size" frozen lasagna dinner COOKED BEFORE YOU COME THIS SUNDAY!!!  Larry will have the salad, bread sticks, dressing, etc. on hand for us.  This is our first fund-raiser of the fall and it will also be SUNDAY SCHOOL RALLY SUNDAY (Grandparent's day, too!)
 
We'll also be going to Windsor that afternoon to hand out CARDS, CANDY, SING, ETC.!!!  Time:  be there at 2:30pm (or we can take the van if you just want to hang out after the lunch on Sunday)!
 
H-E-L-P!!!  DO ANY OF YOU NEED HELP WITH YOUR SCHOOL WORK???  We have different people who can be available to help with Spanish, Math, English, etc.  If you do (and please learn that it is OKAY to ASK for HELP) then just let us know!!!
 
Hey - great turnout for bowling the other night!!!  Some of you even brought FRIENDS!!!  We want you to ALWAYS BRING FRIENDS!!!  So why not start this Wednesday - and of course, don't forget SUNDAY!!!
 
See ya'll then!!!
 
Larry
 
 

From Larry, 7/14/06

 

"We're Back...."  Normally nine days would seem like a long time - but I honestly can't remember much about our vacation - or why it seemed doing nothing went by in such a hurry!!!  We were at the beach - had sun - wind - surf - water - the pool - hot tub - good friends - lots of places to eat - lots of shops to visit - and it all went by in such a hurry!!!  Everyone asked, "Are you rested?"  And my answer is "Yes - and NO!"  We did do a lot of running around - so "No," I'm not that rested physically (go shopping with Paul & Sylvia - you'll know what I'm talking about).  But towards Sunday, I really found myself missing the church and all of ya'll!!!  I enjoyed the break of no phones - not much to worry about (other than, "Where you want to eat?") - I just sat and read a book (finished it!) - watched and listened to the surf - and spent good time with good friends.  So, "Yes," I rested in my mind!  It was good to get away and in many ways, it's better to be back!!!
 
But now that we're back,  we hit the road again - but not as a vacation, but as the church on the move in the world!  The Sr. High youth will leave on Monday for Galveston for their summer trip, which will be short - but will also be packed with lots to do!  Our theme this year is, "GO, FISH," taking Jesus' call to come and follow him and he will make us fishers of men.  So not only will we enjoy the beach, the sun and surf, and other things to do in Galveston - we will also look at our call to be called and make disciples!  I believe this is especially important for our Sr. High Youth (and all the church)!!!  They need to discover the ways that God calls them into discipleship, as well as learn how to go out into the world and share that calling with others!  That's going to be our focus on the trips with three study sessions.  So ya'll keep them, their adult leaders, and me in your prayers this week!!!  We'll be leaving at 8:00am SHARP on Monday and return on Wednesday evening.
The following Monday our Jr. High group will be going on a Mission Trip to San Antonio!  We'll be looking at missions (San Jose, Conception, the Alamo, etc., working in a modern day mission - the Methodist Mission Home in San Antonio, and learning what our MISSION is as a people of EXTREME faith!!!  They will be returning on Thursday evening of that week!
 
We have SNACK SUPPERS lined up!!!  Jackie Thomas and Pat Miller will be our snack supper hosts this Sunday, July 16th.  Martha Watson & Keri Nation will be our hosts on July 23rd.  On July 30th we invite everyone to do something really special, being that it's the last snack supper for several weeks after that - we'll have VEGGIE NIGHT!!!!  Everyone is invited to bring a fresh "veggie" from the garden, produce stand, grocery store, etc. - FIXED THEIR FAVORITE WAY!!!  Got no veggies???  Bring the next best "veggie" - CORNBREAD!!!  And since we'll have "veggies" (which could be any kind of salad, too) - we'll have the newest VEGGIE TALE MOVIE TO SHOW!!!  So maybe this way we can get the kids to finally EAT THEIR VEGGIES!!!  (Please:  no "MEAT" allowed on VEGGIE NIGHT!!!)
 
Every Sunday in August will be really special!!!  The first two Sunday nights we will once again have Kaufman County United Methodist Churches unite for worship!!!  August 6th and 13th we will meet at Kemp UMC and College Mound UMC for a combined worship experience!!!  This was a great event last year and promises to be even more so this year!!!  We are hosting one of the services and will be responsible for "snacks"!  I need ya'll to help me decide what "snacks" are/is!!!  We will also be responsible for the special music!!!  Ya'll do College Mound PROUD and let's have the BEST REPRESENTATION of all the county in our worship experience!!!
Also on August 6th we will have a special recognition for Henry Reed as he is awarded his Eagle in scouting!!!  The ceremony begins at 2:00 pm at College Mound!!!  I remind you that the Eagle is something you EARN - it is not a GIFT!!!  Henry has done himself, his parents and family, his church, his community, and his fellow scouts proud!!!  Let's all come and give him the praise and honor he deserves!!!
Don't forget that August 13th is also WORSHIP AT WINDSOR day!!!  Time:  2:30pm!!!  They really look forward to our presence and we really do have one of the largest attendance of all the worship experiences that place there!!!  Come and spend a little time singing your favorite old (and new) hymns!!!  And besides - watching Grady dance is worth the trip!!!
On August the 20th Bob Watson will have his son, Tony, and the new singing group he's with, come and present a concert for us!!!  This new group has already