The Life and Times of Jason, Leah, Ollie & Fifi

Ollie and Fifi

2009-09-22T12:52:00.001-07:00

Ollie a.k.a. "goggie"

Fifi a.k.a. "Fif" or "The Fif"

just in case you were wondering. . . . .

This Weekend . . .

2009-09-14T22:10:00.000-07:00

. . .we went to a wedding for Jason and Sabrina Stotler. Jason was one of the young people in the youth group when JW was a YP for the Hollister church, therefore he holds a very special place in our hearts.

For those of you that don't know, I suffer with a slight case of OCD (is that an oxymoron?). That being said, I tend to be over-prepared for things.
Unfortunately, that was not the case this weekend when I forgot the card to go with our wedding gift. Since we were already late to the wedding, the only place I was able to get one was when we stopped for gas.

Believe it or not....this was the best option.

I could not stop laughing while trying to somehow make "I'm so glad we share the same world!" tie into wedding wishes. I could not go without telling them that this was not the original one I had bought for them (God forbid they think that since the front of this card is one of the ugliest I have ever seen)

I hope to remember everything for the other wedding we are attending this coming weekend. . . we shall see.

-LW

Since You Asked.....

2009-09-11T13:32:00.001-07:00

Ollie and Fifi are still far from being friends.

She loves him.

He tolerates her.

If she is not right next to him.....

...you can find her with her toys.

Have a great weekend!

-LW

Us

2009-09-09T13:10:00.000-07:00

::Dating years::

Yesterday we celebrated our 8 year anniversary.

I cannot believe that we have been married for 8 years. It seems like it has flown by so fast, yet it feels like we have been together forever (weird that it feels like both at the same time).

Looking back over the years we have been together, it is so clear to see God's hand in our relationship. When JW and I started dating, everything was so easy compared to past relationships I had been in. We just seemed to fit together.

Lately I have just been thinking of us. Thinking about how grateful I am that God gave me exactly what I needed.

"Happy Anniversary to the love of my Life. I cannot
imagine living one day without you. I love you with my whole heart."

-LW

Ollie & Fifi

2009-08-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

I am just going to come out and say it..........logic and rationale have never been my strong traits (referring to this).

That being said - I want to introduce you to Fifi. The newest member of the West Family and Ollie's worst nightmare:

Fifi is an 8 week old Yorkie.....

...that goes completely crazy running around, getting into everything...and then is like this:

She terrorizes Ollie every moment she is awake (and that is not an exaggeration).

But we are thankful for small things....in that he has not bit her........yet.

-LW

P.S. stay tuned for more Ollie and Fifi stories

P.P.S. bet you can't wait for THIS years Christmas card!

Since Last Time. . . . .

2009-08-12T11:12:00.001-07:00

. . . . we have been up to the following:

Revivalution Youth Beach Trip
Had some friends over for the 4th of July

JW spoke at So-Cal Youth Camp

Blue Bomber Car Wash

JW spoke at WD Junior Camp

National Night Out

Camp Meeting

Senior Youth Camp

. . . and in between all of that we have been enjoying the summer.

-LW

(with this post comes the promise of more frequent postings. . . for you Brandon. . . for you)

Bus Ministry Launch...

2009-06-30T09:16:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was invited to speak at the Promise Center in Santa Rosa,CA. The Church is Pastored by Chad King. The purpose of the trip was to help launch their Bus Ministry. I was invited by the Legendary Street Soul Winner, Simeon Costa. I have always had great respect for Simeon, his boldness and tenacity in the area of Soul winning and Bible Study Teaching.
I realize that the success of the Blue Bomber Crew in San Jose rests not in me, but in the whole team. So, I extended the invitation to those on the BBC that wanted to be apart of the Bus Launch. There were a total of 21 of us that made our way to Santa Rosa this past weekend.

We were greeted by about 35 adults / teens that were so excited about what God is fixing to do in their city through Bus Ministry. You could feel the excitement and anticipation in the room as myself, Brandon Leonardo, Pritika Bhan, and Christian Johnson began to speak about Bus Ministry. At the conclusion of the mini seminar, Simeon led the group in prayer. The passion and intensity of the prayer was incredible. There was was an overwhelming cry to God to give them favor in their city. It was very powerful.

After prayer, we broke into 3 teams and begin to hit the local neighborhood. Due to the weather, there were not a lot of people out on the streets at first, but after driving for a while we were able to find some. At the end of the day there were 29 new contacts made on the streets of Santa Rosa.

What a fulfilling afternoon it was. Not only to help launch a ministry in a church that is hungry for souls, but also to see a church rally behind a cause. Thank you Promise Center for allowing myself along with the Blue Bomber Crew to be apart of what God is fixing to do in your city.

Randomness

2009-06-18T14:48:00.001-07:00

We have major pillow issues.

Not sure how it has happened. JW and I have discussed it, and neither one of us can recall one time (while growing up) that we had sleep issues due to an uncomfortable pillow. What has changed? Are we more picky now that we are "all grown up"?

Now it seems like every other night. . .our pillows are flat, we wake up with a headache or a sore neck, we toss and turn trying to get comfortable. . .etc. etc.

The way that JW sleeps with his head straight in a pillow and me with mine like a ball cannot be good! Look what we have become due to uncomfortable pillows?!?!

I have purchased so many pillows the past 8 years....you really would not believe it if I told you.

So, I said all that to say. . . we need help finding the perfect pillow.

Can you help?

-LW

Oxnard Youth Retreat...

2009-06-10T22:12:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was blessed to be with a pretty awesome group of young people - The Rock Youth Group of Oxnard, CA. I spoke at their annual youth retreat. When I arrived I was greeted by some incredibly real and extremely genuine young people. There are some youth groups that are not the easiest to talk to or connect with, and this was not one of them!

The Youth Team of Oxnard is led by Bro Daniel McGovern and Sis Rosalyn. They are doing an incredible work - I love seeing passionate youth workers in the Kingdom of God.

Keep me in your prayers as I head to Spokane,WA on Thursday morning. I will be there for 2 days. Bro Rick Mayo is a complete Savage for the Kingdom. He has invited me to be a part of an evangelistic event, reaching unchurched youth. I am pretty stoked.

I will blog about it this weekend.

MM '09

2009-06-03T10:21:00.001-07:00

Last Friday night was our annual Midnight Madness youth event.

We had over 500 young people in attendance.

JW was the bomb...

...and these people were transparent.

Because of both - we had 14 receive the HG...

... and 1 baptized.

A huge THANK YOU to:

Each and every person that volunteered in any way.

Without you it would have been impossible to do.

Also, to the Pastor's that came out to support our event...

...and our YP friends...

...and Tye Tribbett for his special guest appearance.

A special THANK YOU to those that hung in there with us to the very, very end: Kellee Hopper, Ben Bella, Tim & Allen Wiggins, Kris Seibold, Brandon Miraflor and Christian Johnson. Without you guys we would have had a TON to clean up.

Last but not least - I thank God for blessing us yet again. He never fails to blow our minds and exceed our expectations. I am so thankful that he allows us to play a small part in his big plan.

If you want to see more pics go here

-LW

I Hope to Never Forget.....

2009-05-22T12:26:00.000-07:00

...a few memories from my recent trip to NYC:

Kellee getting off of the subway and the doors shutting before the rest of us could join her. Oh, the look on her face when she turned around and realized we were not behind her. Moni mouthed "K - e - l - l -e - e", seemingly in slow motion as she waved goodbye....I am actually laughing again as I relive the moment.
The lady in Harlem going to the bathroom on the street. {note: she was NOT homeless, and it was NOT #1}
The couple on the NYC water taxi: Him - wearing Calvin Klein boxers {we saw it for ourselves} , Her - with the entire back of her dress stuck in her behind {how could she not feel it?}.
Moni making friends with people on the subway....and then leaving the rest of us stuck talking with them about a Tennis tournament {???} in Australia {???} - did I even get her story right?
Kim & Kellee getting soaked by a van, that hit a puddle, while walking down the street {I am not exaggerating in any way when I say "soaked"}.
Moni getting called out of the crowd by a street performer....enough said.
Me putting one of my boots in our shopping cart while trying on shoes, Moni taking the shopping cart, then when I finally find her {after walking around the store with one boot} it's gone, then having to retrace her steps to find it {praying that someone did not pick it up}.
The "sweet" taxi cab driver who dropped Moni and I off a BLOCK from our hotel at 1 o'clock in the morning!!!
The lady at Cirque de Soleil that assumed that Moni spoke Spanish.
The Tour guide Nazi - "Arrive alive".
The lady that refused to take a picture of Moni and Malia during INTERMISSION at Mary Poppins.....because "photography was not allowed during the performance".
The Elderly couple "getting to know each other really well" in the subway {a.k.a. - making out}.

A special "THANK YOU" to my dear friend Kellee that (by turning 40) made it possible for all of us to go!!! {I think she may kill me for that sentence}....hahaha

Happy Birthday Kellee! I love you!!!

-LW

P.S. I missed JW so much, that when I came home I promised not to take another girls trip for a very long time.....oh, and I missed Ollie too ;-)

Update on Sis Doria...

2009-05-11T15:14:00.000-07:00

Check out who was on Outreach with the Blue Bomber this past Saturday. In the Picture is Christian Johnson who is the Captain of Route 2, along with Sis Doria Cruz [ Espericueta ]. Not pictured is Sis Doria's Husband and kids. They were there, but assisting with the Candy Rain.

Just Watch.

Choice

2009-05-07T08:51:00.000-07:00

So far this morning:

I chose to hit snooze for another ten minutes, thus resulting in running late.
I decided what to wear to work...a choice.
I washed my face and brushed my teeth.....a choice.
Took Ollie outside for his bathroom break.....a choice.
I chose which route to take to work.
Then I decided what to listen to as I drove.....a choice.
I chose which space to park in when I arrived at work.
I went to the cafeteria and chose what I would eat for breakfast.
Then I chose to eat at my desk.
And took the stairs instead of the elevator to get there.....a choice.
I chose to check my email.
Then chose not to go on facebook for another day.
Sent out a few text messages.....a choice.
I chose to respond to some emails.
Decided to post on my blog... a choice.
Chose to write about choices.

Every breathing moment of my day I am making choices. To sit, stand, walk, bend over, open, close, chew, call, pick up my phone, email, text, make a copy, run water, cook, clean, check my mail, feed Ollie, take out the garbage, lock my apartment, alarm my car, drive my car....etc.

Choices I made years ago, that I considered "little" or no big deal, still affect me to this day. They have shaped who I am, and will forever be a part of my life story.

If there is one thing that I hope to impart on the young ladies in my youth group, it would be:

The Power of Choice.

The choices you make everyday shape who you are, and will affect your life forever - good or bad. Always choose prayerfully & carefully, weighing out all of your options.

Every choice you make matters.

Even the little ones......especially the little ones.

"There is a choice you make in everything you do.

And you must always keep in mind, the choice you

make, makes you." ~ Unknown

-LW

Ollie's First Trip to the Dog Park

2009-04-18T22:08:00.000-07:00

Check out this quick video of Ollie's first trip to the Dog Park.

"If friends were flowers, I'd pick you"

2009-04-08T20:20:00.000-07:00

I first met Monica around February 1999. I was working at First Bank & Trust in downtown San Jose. While working there, daily, I would see this "pentecostal" looking girl coming and going as if on her lunch break. One day I ran out of the bank, stopped her and asked her if she went to church. At the time she was attending East Valley Pentecostal Church.

We agreed to go to lunch since we worked so close together. After a few lunch dates our friendship seemed to just "click". She had no idea that at the time I had a secret crush on JW (that is another story in itself), nor that we had gone out years prior. At lunch one day we were talking about my lack of a love life. I think the conversation went something like this:

Me- "I am so depressed, I know that I am going to wind up an old maid"
Moni-"Don't be ridiculous!"
Me- "There are No guys at all at my church!"
Moni- "I have the perfect guy for you"
Me- "Who?"
Moni- "JW"
Me- "You have got to be kidding me, I have had a crush on him for months and have not told a soul!"

.......and thus began our friendship and Moni being known as the "Prophetess". I must admit that I took this as a confirmation that JW and I were somehow meant to be...

Looking back over the last 10 years (I cannot believe it has been that long) I am so thankful for her friendship. Besides my husband, Moni knows me better than anyone else....so if you want the dirt on me, she is the one to go to....hahaha

She is someone that always tells me the truth about myself - even if it means I am wrong. She is the one I call when I am feeling like an emotional mess, and she always seems to say the right thing.

We have laughed together, cried together, shopped together (I had to throw that in), vacationed together.....and much, much more.

This month she is turning "21". In honor of her birthday I thought this tribute to her would be fitting.

I love you Moni.....here's to another 50 years of friendship!!!

"A friend is someone who knows
the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the
words." Unknown

-LW

A little about Jwest...

2009-04-03T12:03:00.001-07:00

Alright, so The Westside Stories is not going to just be about Ministry involvement, but also to give you a little random insight into The West Family. Today's installment is my collection of ties. Not just any tie, but nice ties.

I have not bought many ties within the last 6 months. However, I have just started my bow tie collection. I am excited about the progress of this latest development.

In fact, it is my intention to spark the BOW TIE Revival in our Young Men's Tie Arsenal at the First Church. -JW

Blue Bomber Story...

2009-04-02T09:55:00.000-07:00

I came across this awesome picture from our Vacation Bible School last summer. This was an incredible event due to that fact that our Music Is For Kids Summer Program had taken a 2 year break. We felt to bring it back last year. The timing was perfect because we had just launched the Blue Bomber Crew and many of them were a part of The POWERLAB. It was a great event that rallied all of our children, as well as our Bus/Children's Workers together. What I remember so vividly the day of the POWERLAB Performance was not just the excitement of all the wacky hairstyles and bright colors, it was what happened that day.

It was that Sunday morning, that Doria Cruz, a mother of children that had been riding the Blue Bomber (since the first day we started the Bus Ministry) decided to make some changes in her life. She came that day and sat on the front row of the First Church. With tears streaming down her face, she watched as her kids were having a blast worshipping and singing. She had come to church that day to be baptized. She told me that she had been watching her kids come to our church for a while, and there was something that was pulling her to give her life over to God.

Since then, Sis Doria and her husband Ishmael have become some of the most faithful people at the First Church. I will not lie and say that it was been problem free journey for them, there has been a few bumps in the road, families have been separated, Kids put in Foster Homes across the city - but as I looked out in the congregation last Sunday At First Church Connect - I saw their whole family back together again.

I sat on the platform while Pastor Shoemake preached, tears running down my face as I watched this family worship the Lord together. It is incredible to watch this transformation taking place. Sis Doria is one of the first ladies to approach neighborhood moms and dads and tells them about the Lord and everything God has done for her. She is so funny too. She will walk up to some of the "hardest" young people and just tell them how it is - and how they need to surrender their lives to God. I love it.
There are great things to come from Ishmael and Doria. One day Ishmael and Doria will be route captains on the Blue Bomber Crew... just watch.

The Other Woman

2009-03-20T10:43:00.000-07:00

Last night I struggled to drift off into dreamland. Peaceful happy thoughts were interrupted by gunshots, bombs going off, helicopters flying overhead, and trash talk.

And I realized…….every day I compete with ‘her’ for my husbands attention.

I am not sure if I am winning. –LW

I am convinced...

2009-03-02T16:14:00.001-08:00

Last night in our Sunday Evening Service we had a Praise Concert with Bro Kevin Howard of The Pentecostals of Alexandria. He has spent the last 3 days working with our choir. The service was awesome. The Choir was rockin - they sounded great, cool new songs, and a true display of God's Anointing.

The thing that stood out to me the most was the alters filled with Blue Bomber Kids and their Families. Last night we saw approximately 130 - 150 Neighborhood kids and adults come to First Church. Our City Council member Pete Constant even stopped by prior to the service to connect to our Church.

The Choir concluded the concert with a song called "Free" (I think that was the name of it). It was a slower song, and as the song began the presence of God just ripped through the building. It was incredible. Brand new converts to First Church, within the past year, began to run the aisles. They were truly excited that they were "Free". My eyes welled up when I saw a young man by the name of Jeffrey, who was just baptized last Sunday Night - get out of his seat and begin to dance and run the aisles. You would have to know his story and what God has saved him from- Jeffrey has come a loonnnng way.

After the service we served a dinner in the Fellowship Hall for all of our Community Guests. We didn't anticipate so many people, but God provided, and we had just enough food for everyone. Leah mentioned that she didnt think we would have enough, but God always makes a way - and provides.

It was just incredible. God is doing it. I am just glad to be a part of it. Thank you God for trusting us with these new people. This is just the beginning.

Monday Encouragement - LW

2009-03-02T15:35:00.000-08:00

God give me faith in myself,

not only on days when I'm going great and winning

and nothing seems impossible

but on days when the whole world looks lousy

and I'm losing and the road ahead seems too hard.

When I wonder if I'm brave enough, smart enough

and I must be crazy to try,don't let me quit Lord, not ever.

Let me keep the faith in myself.

No matter how many people

discourage me…

doubt me…

laugh at me…

warn me…

think me a fool…

Don't let me listen.

Let me hear another voice telling me,

"You can do it and you will!"

If nobody else in this world cares or believes in me,

let me believe in myself.

I know there will be times when I will doubt my own abilities,

when I'll be discouraged and on the verge of despair,

don't let me give up, hang onto me.

Fan the fires so that I'll try even harder.

Give me more faith in myself.
You are the source of life and power.

You are the source of my abilities and my faith.
Help me to always believe in myself, as you believe in me.

~Marjorie Holmes

New Cover for my Computer!

2009-02-21T16:36:00.001-08:00

I am just pretty stoked about a new cover I just received in the mail yesterday. It is a nifty new Green Color for my MacBook Pro. It was a pretty sweet deal. Usually they are 50.00 in the Apple Store, however Bro Ron Carter of the First Church told me about the Brand's website Offer for only 24.97. So I ordered one! I'm pretty excited about the terrific savings and the cool color.

Just random thoughts on a grey Saturday afternoon.

Birthday spent with my Mom.

2009-02-18T15:08:00.001-08:00

February 17th was my Mothers 53rd birthday. We had a great dinner at El Amigo Restaurant. It was My mom, Mark, and I. Leah has been sick the last few days and is still trying to get through it. We had a great time at the Restaurant and finished it off at Baskin Robbins. I wish my mom a Happy Birthday - and much love.

Things I Can Live Without:

2009-02-13T12:34:00.000-08:00

People who are critical of my husband - enough said.
Fake people - if you don't like me, don't act like you do. You are really fooling no one but yourself.
Cheap stuff - by this I mean cheap in quality not cheap in cost.
Debbie-downers - people that always have something negative to say.
Keeping up with the Jones' - The pressure to have what everyone else has or to have the latest and greatest. When is enough, enough?
Onions - I have tried and tried to like them...to no avail.
Bad hair days - I believe I have already met my lifetime quota for this.
Horrible Drivers - if you are afraid to drive, don't.
People that do not have a weight problem - they really just make me sick. =)
Camping in a tent - I believe I have met my lifetime quota for this as well.
Text Message Abbreviations being used when you are not text messaging - 4COL DGTG THTS JMO. NBFAB!!!!!**
Wearing glasses in the rain without an umbrella.
Talking on the phone.

There you have it, 13 of my dislikes in honor of Friday the 13th. - LW

**(4COL- for crying out loud; DGTG - don't go there girlfriend; THTS - that's; JMO - just my opinion; NBFAB - not bad for a beginner).

Bookworm

2009-02-05T09:02:00.000-08:00

I love books. Always have, always will.

Nothing is more relaxing to me than to curl up on the couch with a good book. I read every night before I go to bed, until I can barely keep my eyes open. If I am reading a really good book, that I cannot wait to finish, I will bring it to work and read it on my lunch everyday until I am done.

My husband thinks I am a bookworm.

I agree.

I am an extremely fast reader, if (and only if) I find the book interesting. This past Tuesday I received a book in the mail after work (bought off of eBay for $3.99, I might add). By Wednesday morning 12:05am I was done with it.

Weird....huh?!?!

Currently I have 19 books on my nightstand that I am wanting/needing to read.

Is that normal????

I must admit that many of them have been there for at least a year. Most are self help books. Though I know that I need to read them, I don't find them nearly as interesting as a novel or a biography.

But this year (as a New Year's resolution that I am just now adding to my list) I am going to read all 19 and FINALLY have a clean nightstand.

I have already started on two of them.

~LW

So it's been a while...

2009-01-27T23:05:00.000-08:00

I apologize for my lack of blog postings the last few weeks.

We just had an incredible service tonight @ the First Church. It was a Solemn Assembly. Pastor Shoemake so eloquently delivered the word of God and discussed some things that were in the church. The conclusion of the service was amazing. We have been having awesome moves of God the last few services. The Church is beginning to fill up. It's great being apart of what God is doing here in San Jose.

A few weeks ago, I think I received one of the most touching displays of appreciation from a young person in our youth ministry. There is a young person that will remain nameless for Blog Purposes...that has been apart of our Ministry for a couple of years. This person is the type of person that remains on the perimeters of things. Very soft spoken. Isn't the Life of the Group. In fact a young person that is pretty much labeled "one of the quiet ones". Anyways, we had just concluded a youth event, and everyone was hanging out after talking and goofing off. I walked by a group of young people where this one particular young person was at. I said "whats up" to all of them as I usually would. I had already passed the group and was going into a different room, and this young person ran up after me and said..."Bro West..Bro West". I turned around and I looked at them, and they looked at me at simply said..."Thanks". I looked at them, and I just looked puzzled, and they looked again at me and said it again "Thanks Bro West...Thanks". They turned around and ran back to their group where they were talking.

I didnt know how to quite take it. I didnt understand. But then, as I walked away, this young person in their way was saying "Thank you for all that we do for the Youth Ministry". It was one of the most impacting moments as a youth pastor. Mind you, I have been in youth ministry for a decade now, and the "Thank You's" are few and far between. But this young person, someone that I would of never thought, was expressing themself.

There are times that the work of a youth pastor goes unappreciated. The Life of the Youth Pastor - Overworked, Underpaid, UnderValued, Overlooked, and Used. But this young person's words of sincerity send me a message that I will never forget. "Thanks" - I was reminded that all the non glamorous duties, late night cleaning of Youth Centers, hours of preparation for youth events, and all the other stuff that Youth Pastors do - it is all for something.

This young person made me feel valued. Thank you to that young person. It is my goal this year to value and appreciate those that have impacted my life.

"Thanks...."

-JW

Two Things

2009-01-20T09:51:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was busy, busy, busy. But what fun! I have to admit that when Monday morning came, I was more tired than I was on Friday, after a week of work!

I wanted to share two things that happened this past Sunday:

First:
I taught the lesson in my class on Sunday morning. After my lesson we were doing what girls do best...socializing. I had my Mac so we started playing around taking various pictures of ourselves using the photo booth. Some of the "neighborhood kids" or "community kids" (whatever you want to call them) were taking pictures as well. When the horn blew that the bus was leaving one of the bus girls came up to me, smiled, gave me a hug, and said "bye, I will see you next week".

You would have to know her to know what this really means. She has not been coming faithfully, has done her best to instigate fights when she does come, and NEVER seems to listen to anything that is being said. For her to initiate a hug with me....

This was a big step....a HUGE step.

Second:
There was a girl that had been in our youth group years ago. I will not even go into the details of her story (1. I don't know if she would appreciate it and 2. I don't want to take the time), but to summarize: Her family left our church, backslid, she got pregnant, then got married, then came back to our church, then separated from her husband.

Since she has come back, her and I have spent a lot of time together. God blew our minds this past Sunday, when her husband was baptized.

Isn't it just like God to fix the mess that we make of our lives..........he never fails to amaze me.

"I am staying out of the forest, and am glad I am not perfect".~LW

Misc.....and a Happy Birthday

2009-01-14T14:46:00.000-08:00

I am a horrible blogger. I have not posted since December 27th (to be exact). You may be asking yourself Why I have not entertained you with the details of our life?!?!?!

LAZINESS.

I wish I had a better reason, or a fabulous story to blame it on (I took a trip to Paris, I won a million dollars , I was climbing Half Dome...etc), but I don't. I simply have: just. not. wanted. to.

Anyways...moving on

We started the New Year in So-Cal. This year I am pretty torn about making resolutions. I thought if a posted a few here I would be a little more accountable in keeping them.

So here goes nothing......

Lose Weight
Learn Spanish (at least start trying to)
Read the entire Bible
Exercise regularly
Pray longer every day
Be more organized
Go somewhere I have never been before
Stop being a procrastinator
Spend more time with the ones I love ~ JW, family, friends
Start sewing again

JW's birthday was on Monday......HAPPY 31st BIRTHDAY TO THE LOVE OF MY LIFE!!

JW's Mother and Brother came over for dinner and cake. The West family tradition is usually to go out to eat for birthday's, but JW decided that he wanted to be home this year. It was nice to have them over, as we rarely entertain.

I made the carrot cake above for his b-day. It is his favorite kind. I will have you know that I made the entire cake from scratch, icing and all. To some of you this is no small feat, but for me this is a huge deal, as I am not much of a baker. (one small problem I have with homemade icing is getting it to stick to the cake, it kept running off...can anyone help me with that? I let the cake cool for at least an hour too!).

This weekend we are hosting Revivalution Youth Conference at our church. Starting tonight we will begin the busy preparations of making sure everything comes together. It is going to be an exciting weekend! If you are in the area make sure and stop by - LW

Getting Ready for Sunday....

2009-01-09T10:26:00.001-08:00

There is alot of planning / strategizing that goes into Sunday Morning Blue Bomber Crew 2 Session Sundays! It took alot just to say that whole sentence!

My weekly ritual is to email out to all the bus workers a Play By Play Game plan as to how are going to execute our teams. The Blue Bomber Crew has now hit over 50 volunteers.

Everyone person has a role on Sunday Mornings - even throughout the week. From weekly evangelism to picking up the donated pastries on Friday / Saturday nights. It's pretty awesome how everyone works together for a common goal.

Tonight we have a 2009 Sectional Kick Off Rally at East Valley Pentecostal Church. Bro Tim Torres is our guest. I have always appreciated Bro Tim, because of his consistency and passion for the Kingdom of God. And it also helps that he is a great preacher.

Usually we have great attendance at our rallies. However I have had a few call ins from a couple youth ministries to inform me that due to Church Prayer Services, they would be unable to attend. I have found that Januarys often times are difficult times to schedule sectional / district events due to the conflicting of local church events.

I am sure we will have a move of God tonight. I will keep you all in the loop as to how it goes tonight. - JW

On Vacation in Southern California

2009-01-01T17:33:00.000-08:00

An Interesting Moment @ the MidSkool Movement

2008-12-28T07:16:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago, we had our MidSkool Movement Youth Service. On Sunday Mornings at the First Church we have approximately 70 middle school aged youth that attend. A few months ago, we launched the MidSkool Movement Service once a month on Sunday Mornings. Luis Abbott and Christian Johnson are the Main Coordinators of this group of young people. They do an incredible job prepping for activities and connecting with this age group.

The First Church Children's Ministry Department conducted a Sunday School Training Seminar a few weeks back with Brent Regnart - Children's Pastor of CLC and Bro Jerry McCool, a very awesome and dynamic Children's Evangelist. Alot of things were mentioned, but one of the main things that stood out - especially when working with a bunch of crazy, hyper, and unchurched young people was that you must have classroom / activity rules communicated. You cannot enforce rules if you have not communicated them to the youth you are working with.

With that being freshly engraved in our minds; Luis, Christian, and I made a "Rules" Video for the MidSkool Movement Video. We were so proud of it. We had fun making it. Let me give a little insight into youth ministry. There are alot of challenges in working with today's young person, but there are fun parts of it as well. Creating media that can be played in your venues, can be alot of fun. Here is a Video Recap of the Service, and at the end of the video is the Rules Video that we were so proud of.

So back to the story. We thought we had it down. All bases covered.

Room 9 was packed. Excitement was in the air. The theme of the Movement Service was "The Tightest Gift Ever". We were going to discuss the real reason of Christmas, and why Christ came. We had wacky games, awesome giveaways, and off tha hook crowdbreakers. We were even giving away an IPOD.

As we were 3/4 the way through the service, we were making our way to the "message" segment. Christian was leading us in praise and worship, I felt to take the mic and sing one more song before I began to launch into the "Message". The presence of God was there. Kids were on their feet with hands in the air singing and praising God. We were right in the middle of the song "Here I am to Worship" when out of the corner of my eye, I witnessed a Blue Bomber Kid get up out of his seat and make his way to the second row, and with all that he had began to punch another Blue Bomber Kid in the face. In fact, it was so bad, that the kid on the second row got knocked down to the ground as the other continually pounded him. Immediately Bro Richard Masoner, who by the way is one of the coolest Dads/Pre Teen Teachers around, jump right in and break it up. They grabbed both boys and took them out of the room. I instructed Luis Abbott to contact the Police - and for them to come out and take a report - in case of any injuries that may of occurred.

The room was quiet. I looked into the faces of the other MidSkoolers in the room. I think the state of shock had set in that there was a Royal Rumble in the middle of praise and worship left the room in silence.

See, I failed to mention, that in the Sunday School Seminar with Regnart and McCool - that one of the main points that McCool really hit on - was working with "Object Lessons". That "Object Lessons" really help a child to identify with the lesson attempting to be communicated.

I had just had the best "object lesson" take place right there in front of the rest of MidSkoolers. I quickly took control of the situation and said, "That when you have the Holy Ghost - you don't have to act out in violence. That when you have the tightest gift ever, You don't have to fight - but the Lord is with you." I still felt the presence of God, right there in the Midst of Summer Slam. I continued to minister to this awkward age group. A group that seeks identity. A group that struggles with insecurity. A group that seeks acceptance. God was in room 9.

That night, Victoria - a girl that has been riding the Blue Bomber for a while now came back to service & was sitting in the front row with her Sunday School teacher- Shannon Erickson. She responded to the preaching of Bro Ari Prado and was drawn to the alters seeking God.

After a decade of being involved in youth ministry, I am convinced more now than ever that young people really do need Jesus. One of the many goals our youth ministry has this year is to connect and minister effectively to the Midskool Age Group. It is a group that the world is quickly trying to impact and affect. Please continue praying for the Revivalution Youth Ministry in 2009.

By the way, in the rules video, we failed to communicate " No Fighting".

A Quick Catch Up

2008-12-27T11:55:00.000-08:00

Revivalution Youth -> Christmas in the Park & Streets of Bethlehem

Birthday Celebration #1 with BFF's -> P.F. Chang's

Birthday Celebration #2 with my family -> Claim Jumpers

Birthday Celebration #3 with the hubster (forgot camera) -> Carino's

Ollie met Santa -> don't think he liked him
Date night with hubster -> San Francisco/ Union Square
Hosted Christmas Eve at my house -> parents and my aunt and uncle came over (sibling's are in Peru - long story).

Christmas day -> spent with JW's family (forgot camera)

I have been 29 now for one week, and must admit that I do feel a little more mature ;o)
I have been off of work for a week, and have had moments of complete boredom (I will be sooo ready to go back to work).
So far have been over to the Hassas' house twice for dinner (with a third time approaching this weekend) - thinking we will be wearing out our welcome really soon ;o)

Happy New Year's Everyone! - LW

Christmas Trees, George Bailey, So-Cal & Sanger

2008-12-16T22:54:00.000-08:00

There is no season like Christmas. I love Christmas. Here is a picture of our Christmas tree in all its glory.

The other night I was with a group of our young people and I said "Merry Christmas". They looked at me all weird and then like only a teenager could respond..."Dude it's not Christmas yet!"

Christmas for me is the time from Thanksgiving to December 25th. I remember as a child waking up on Christmas morning and running into the Living Room and ripping open gifts. After all the gifts were opened, it was time to clean up all the debris. Then onto Christmas dinner. Then...it was over. My mother was the type that would break down our tree the day after Christmas - because it became a fire hazard. So to me, Christmas became not about the 25th - but about the season.

This year, Leah has 2 weeks off of work. I plan on spending time with my honey going out to the crowded malls, and taking a drive to freshly dropped snow in the mountains that surround San Jose. After Christmas, we plan on traveling down to Southern California to see some awesome friends. We will also be heading to Sanger to chill for a bit with our dear friends Tirso and Rachel Gonzales. They have the coolest kids.

If you have not read any of the previous posts, let me reiterate that I love the cold weather. I love the busy shopping malls. The crowded Parking Garages. The Christmas Music. The Gift Cards I will receive from my youth group...hint hint. I love it all. I love saying "Merry Christmas" to the most grouchiest looking people on the street. I sometimes feel like George Bailey from "It's a Wonderful Life", as he runs through Bedford Falls screaming "Merry Christmas"! - JW

29

2008-12-12T09:38:00.000-08:00

A week from today....I will be turning 29. That's right, you heard me right, there was no mistaking what I said..........29. I will begin my last year of being in my 20's.

I. Am. So. Depressed.

I cannot believe it is happening to me!

A famous person once said:

"I still feel 18 inside, but then I look in the mirror
and see that I don't look 18 anymore, and I think - That is not me, what has happened!?!" ~Bishopette Bobbie Shoemake

That is exactly how I feel. I feel like a fraud, someone that is faking being an adult...I don't feel like one inside.

I have never minded getting older. In fact, I have loved my 20's - they have been great. But to think that next year I will be 30!!!!!! I NEVER thought I would be here. 30 ALWAYS seemed so OLD - and now, here I am one year away from "old".

[A special "Thank you" to the Blue Bomber kid in our class a few weeks ago, who asked how old I was, and then without any hesitation said, "Wow, that is really old" - you did not even notice my eyes welling up with tears, my heart being crushed....I know, I know, I am being dramatic.]

I know I should just roll with it. It is just part of life. But knocking at 30's door has truly made me stop and think. Made me evaluate my life, what I have done, what I HAVEN'T done, where I was SUPPOSED to be at this time in my life. I feel a little panicked when I think of everything I want to do before 30 is here.

Knowing what is ahead gives me a year to come to full acceptance of something I cannot stop or change.

Just bare with me if you happen to walk by me sometime this year and I am having a complete break-down, if Alzheimer's starts to set in, or if you happen to notice any white hairs on my head (DO NOT point them out unless you are willing to comfort me as I cry).

You never know, maybe the rapture will happen next year and I will get to stay 29 forever. -LW

Earthquake

2008-12-09T09:20:00.000-08:00

Photo of me and my sister when I was 10 years old

It felt like someone was holding our building, gave it one rough shake and let go. It was an earthquake. We have had two so far this morning that were centered 6 miles from where I work. They were 3.0 & 1.4 magnitude.

The California native that I am hates earthquakes, but would much rather have them then hurricanes, tornadoes, snowstorms, etc. You never know when they are coming (the whole "not knowing" works really good for me). While they are happening, I AM terrified, scared, heart racing, looking frantically for a doorway/desk to duck and cover (like I learned in elementary school), but an hour later my fear has been forgotten. I like it that way.

I remember the Loma Prieta Earthquake in '89. I was 10 years old. At the time we were living in a mobile home in Union City. It was so strong that our mobile home moved a few feet forward (with all of us inside), and the car across the street rolled and crashed into our home. It was CRAZY to say the least. We did not have a TV, so I remember going to our neighbors and watching the bridge collapse and the aftermath of chaos as a result of the earthquake. I will never forget it. -LW

Thanksgiving Recap #2

2008-12-06T23:34:00.000-08:00

Annually we meet on the day after Thanksgiving, with Sam & Monica Hassas and Johannes & Tawni Escudero for dinner. I think this year may be our fifth or sixth year of doing this. I look forward to it every year. Not meeting up after a conference, not going out to eat after a youth event...just getting together for the sole purpose of having a good time.

Usually Monica or I host it, but this year we boycotted all of the work and opted for a Maggiano's feast instead...who could resist that????

JW and I feel so blessed to have these two couples in our lives. They are truly GOOD PEOPLE, and we feel honored to call them FRIENDS.

JE, TE, SH & MH ~We love you guys and look forward to another 50 years of Post-Thanksgiving Dinners with you! -LW

Thanksgiving Weekend - Jwest

2008-12-01T07:54:00.000-08:00

What an awesome Thanksgiving Week we had. The Tuesday night before Thanksgiving, Pastor threw down. It was not your traditional "Thanksgiving" Message. It was incredible. It ended with everyone flooding the alters just so grateful for the blessing of God. It was awesome.

On Thanksgiving, Leah and I did the annual Turkey Day at three locations. We started the day at my mom's house for a few hours. Then off to Leah's Parents for a bit, and then finally concluded the day at Sam and Monica's house. Leah and Monica were crazy, going shopping at the Great Mall at Midnight on Thanksgiving night. I fell asleep on Sam's Couch till 3 am when they came home from their Shopping adventure....WITH NOTHING! I am sure Leah will blog about it later.

What was even better this week was that Leah began decorating for Christmas. For those of you who don't know Leah very well, she loves adding things to our home. She has an awesome sense of decor and style. She worked at Ethan Allen for a few years when we first started dating, so she has a good sense of home decor - but not at Ethan Allen prices!.

What is so great about Leah, is that she is constantly shopping for really neat things to make our home an even more welcome and desirable place to be. Even though I complain at times for the hours she spends at Home Goods in Gilroy, she does an incredible job. You all need to stop by our house in December.

On Friday, we spent the whole day at home recuperating from a very festive Thanksgiving Thursday. Later in the evening, we met up with long time friends Johannes and Tawni Escudero and Sam and Monica Hassas at Maggianos for the annual Thanksgiving Connect. What a great time we had laughing and enjoying each other's company. We all came back to our house, and talked until 1:30 in the morning! I really appreciate the times that I am able to spend with quality friends.

I love the season of Christmas. Believe it or not, I love the cold weather, crowded malls, packed out parking lots, and the hustle and bustle. We have spent 2 of the last 3 Christmas' in Manhattan. If I had my way, we would be there again this year. I can't wait for all the Holiday Parties, and festive things we have planned this month.

Torn

2008-11-24T12:56:00.001-08:00

For those of you none DOG LOVERS.....STOP reading this post NOW. Everyone else, please continue on.....

For a while now JW and I (by this I mean ME) have been debating over whether or not to get another dog. Ollie has been an only child for four years. He is absolutely, positively, without a doubt the most spoiled dog I have ever known. He does not share toys, food, our attention, or anything else for that matter!

To make him a more rounded dog (and ease the guilt I feel over leaving him alone for hours and hours at a time) I thought a sibling would be nice.....by "sibling" I mean a fellow dog companion =) Two people at our church currently have for sale male Yorkie puppies(full breed, which is what Ollie was SUPPOSED to be). They are the absolute CUTEST things ever.

The pros of getting a puppy would be:

Puppies are SOOOOO cute
Ollie would have to share
Ollie would not be so lonely during the day (we assume he is)

The cons would be:

House training
Puppies chew stuff up
More $$$ for dog food/Vet/grooming
Puppies are hyper
We don't want to be known as "The DOG PEOPLE"....(you know those people...there is dog hair everywhere, it smells like dog when you walk in, and they let ALL of their dogs jump/climb all over you....I shudder at the thought)

To a non-dog-lover-thinker, looking at this list would answer this question for me, but still I am so torn. Ollie is (almost) perfectly trained to our lifestyle. He does not require much work on my part. A puppy would change EVERYTHING (on a side note....I would imagine this is how parents feel when they debate over having another child...hahaha).

What should we do? Should Ollie share the Christmas card picture this holiday season? -LW

A Week Early...But I am EXTREMELY Thankful for...

2008-11-19T14:06:00.000-08:00

God's love, GRACE & mercy.
JW - He is the best. Need I say more?
My Pastor and His Family - with different circumstances that have happened in my life, the Shoemakes have really become like FAMILY. I love them very much (and I am not just saying that because I know they read our blog..haha).
My Family - I am VERY blessed to have been raised in a great home. I have wonderful parents and my siblings are pretty cool too. I hated it while growing up, but now LOVE the fact that I come from a large family.
My Life - Though FAR from being perfect - I have a GREAT life compared to many others.
Friends - I don't know how I could survive without my friends....I would surely drive JW CRAZY!
Ollie - I know, I know.....many of you are SHOCKED that he is this far down the list, but in case we have fooled you into thinking differently - he is a dog.
Living at the Church - I feel so connected to EVERYTHING that goes on at the church. I will miss so many things if/when we move. (Westside - UPC Cribs Video coming soon).
My Job - God has BLESSED me with a great job that is flexible and gives me time to do MANY church related things (as well as blog..hahaha). The pay isn't bad either ;o)
Living in San Jose - Though I dream of moving back East for a year(just to experience the SEASONS), I know that being a California native I would DIE. I am blessed to be able to live in the most beautiful city in the US.

There are a MILLION more things that I could list, but these are just a few that have been on my mind this week. - LW

Amazing Weekend - Jwest

2008-11-17T12:19:00.001-08:00

What an incredible weekend we just had. It was extremely busy, but yet so worth it all. A group of our MidSkool girls attended the Esther Conference in Stockton. A Big thanks to Kellee, Tina, and my awesome wife Leah for taking the young ladies. I heard they all had an awesome time, and I'm sure Leah will blog it at a later date. Here is a quick glimpse @ the Esther Conference in Stockton :

While they were all @ the Conference, we took advantage of it and had an All Guys night @ the Church. It was crazy fun - with Airsoft, Basketball, Video Games, and food. I really enjoyed connecting to our young men at this event.

Early Saturday morning we had a Blue Bomber Blitz. The last few weeks our attendance has not been as high as times past, so our objective was to get out in the neighborhood and blitz it for a few extra hours. We had a great turnout of Blue Bomber Workers as well as a few of our Sunday School Teachers. We had 42 more kids on the Blue Bomber this week than we had last week...the extra effort payed off!

Sunday was the highlight of my weekend. We had our First MidSkool Movement Youth Service on Sunday morning. The situation that we are having is that on any given Sunday we have approximately 70 MidSkoolers @ the First Church. We have been trying to get them to our Friday Night Venue, but for whatever reason we only get a few of them on Friday. So, we decided to bring a Friday Night Element to Sunday Morning. While the Children were downstairs having Super Kids Church - we packed room 9 with 70 MidSkoolers. It was incredible. We had rockin media, incredible worship led by Christian and Junia, and a great response to the message. At the conclusion of the message, Kids just poured into our "alter" area. They all came with their hands raised seeking to draw closer to God. The majority of them didn't know how to pray, what to say, or even what to do. In the alters, it was very instructional - where I had to teach them how to pray- and open their heart to God. I loved it. After all the Midskoolers left the room and the staff was downstairs, I remained in the room and just basked in the presence of God. I rejoiced all by myself for what God had done in the lives of those that responded to his calling to draw closer to him. I wanted to give special "props" to Christian Johnson, who labored on Saturday setting up the room and making sure it was perfected. Christian is extremely gifted and he did an incredible job connecting to the Midskoolers this weekend. Check out this quick recap:

Today is my brother Mark's 19th Birthday. I can't believe it. He is in his first year in College. Mark is very involved in his church's youth ministry as well as being a dedicated volunteer for the Christmas in the Park Committee here in San Jose. Tonight we intend to meet up with Him and my Mother @ the Cheesecake Factory to celebrate His Day.

My Weekend -LW

2008-11-09T22:51:00.000-08:00

JW = Youth Connect

Great Couple = Wedding

Making Caramel Apples = Learning Lesson

Canceled Sunday School Class = Breakthrough

Bake Sale = Esther Conference

Abandoned Shoes = Shout Service

TRC - Famous Friends

2008-11-05T15:37:00.000-08:00

Needed something to post this week...so here it is! A friend found this picture online. For the whole article go here. -LW

The Legendary Blue Bomber Crew

2008-11-02T15:29:00.001-08:00

A few days ago, my honey - Leah, wrote about her experiences with the Blue Bomber Kids - who happen to be the group of children and adults who ride our Buses on Sunday mornings. There is alot to be said about this group of children. Being involved has revolutionized my life. I had never been involved in something like this, but it is amazing.

Just this morning, Travon, a kid from the neighborhood missed the bus, and didnt want to miss Sunday School, so he jumped on his bike to get to First Church. The Funny thing about this was that when I saw his bike, I started bustin up cause even his bike was "pimped". He had taken some foil and made his wheels all bling. I had to take a picture of this. In the near future I will introduce you to a few success stories coming out of the Blue Bomber Ministry.

I want to bring special attention to the Blue Bomber Crew. This incredible team of young people / adults work so hard. They are the hardest & most dilligent workers at the First Church. There is so much that this crew does behind the scenes to gain the trust, respect, and affection of the kids they pick up every Sunday Morning.

They Do midweek prayer walks & followup. Then go out on Saturday mornings for 2 hours to reconnect. Then on Sunday they are here as early as 7:30 am and leave around 1:00 pm. They are the first to arrive and last to leave on Sunday Afternoons.

I love the dedication that these workers have for the Kingdom of God and for the children of the neighborhood. Not all are in this picture that was taken today, but I wanted to give a glimpse of the Blue Bomber Crew to those following the Westside Story. These individuals inspire me. They are truly world changers.

Happy Harvest from "Horse" Ollie & his Cowboy

2008-11-01T00:16:00.000-07:00

Random Things I Love About JW - (in no specific order)

2008-10-29T10:50:00.000-07:00

I love it when he makes himself LAUGH - usually I wind up laughing at HIM laughing at himself, and not at the reason he is laughing.
I love it that he thinks that OLLIE is the CUTEST DOG in the world....even though I know he really isn't. This gives me hope that someday he will love our kid's no matter what they wind up looking like..lol.
I love that he lets me buy things for myself, and NEVER complains about the cost
I love the fact that he was the first guy I EVER went out on a DATE with.
I love it that he let's me be a BOOKWORM...he never complains when I choose reading over cooking, cleaning or laundry.
I love that he is REAL - what you see is what you get.
I love that he LOVES people. Really loves people and sincerely cares about them.
I love it that he often makes me LAUGH until I CRY.
I love that he likes to HAVE FUN.
I love it when he tries to SING a song that he does NOT know the words to.
I love listening to him answer phone calls from telemarketers, the accents he uses are HILARIOUS!

"Absence makes the heart grow fonder"......I was without JW for 4 days.

I missed him. -LW

United Way/Sacred Heart

2008-10-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

As part of the United Way campaign, I was privileged to volunteer at the Sacred Heart Community Center yesterday. The thing that I love the most about working for Johnson & Johnson is their commitment to improving their world. There are a number of volunteer opportunities offered throughout the year. A few that I have been a part of are:

Family Giving Tree - wrapping/sorting Christmas gifts for children
Tour De Cure - Bike ride to raise money for a cure for diabetes
United Way/Senior Center - played games/entertained seniors for an afternoon
Second Harvest Food Bank - Food sorting and coordinating a food drive

After yesterday, Sacred Heart Community Center has my vote as the #1 community program in San Jose. No more will I give any donations to any other center (i.e. Goodwill, Savers, Salvation Army). All services offered by Sacred Heart are FREE.

While there I was placed to work in the Clothes Closet. I saw everything from:

cars dropping off donations
items being sorted (the qualifications being -don't keep anything you wouldn't wear)
clothes being hung on hangers (this was my job)
then being put out on display
and then being taken by "customers"

I literally would go through the bins to try and find the "good stuff" to put out, and in a matter of minutes they would be gone. My eyes watered a number of times (I know....I know....those of you that think I am insensitive are SHOCKED), when the kids would come in and get all excited over a used Spiderman tshirt, or a man asked me if there were any dockers in the bins for him to wear to work, also by watching the disabled man in a wheelchair take tshirts that looked like they had seen better days.

The saddest part of the day (I must admit that a tear fell over this one) happened on the food side of the center. A mother and her baby walked up to the counter asking for formula. The center had given away all that they had, so the mother then went to the water fountain and filled the baby's bottle with water. To think that for however long, until the mother could get formula, the baby would be drinking water.....this broke my heart. I wanted to track her down, find her, take her to the store, get her whatever she needed for her baby. I am sure that if I was working on the food side when it happened I would have totally broken down. I know that there are situations like this all of the time, but for it to be right in front of you, and for you to have the ability to change it.........

When I went home last night I talked with JW about the center. I really want to have our young people volunteer here before the end of the year and am looking at when/what we can do. My hubby has ALWAYS wanted to feed the hungry on Thanksgiving Day so maybe this is the year for us to GIVE.

Once again I feel overwhelmed with all that God has blessed me with. We don't have much, but I am so very, very thankful for it. -LW

What a Harvest Party!

2008-10-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

Our Youth Ministry's Wild West Harvest Party was Friday night. We had an awesome time with everyone coming dressed in Cowboy hats, plaid shirts, and cowboy boots. We Did a Mystery Scavenger Hunt @ Valley Fair mall. Imagine this - 65 young people running through the mall with only 30 minutes to take as many group pictures as they possibly can all over one of the biggest malls in the bay area. To say the least, security was called and wound up chasing our young people through the mall. The youth jumped onto the bus - and we were out of there. We rallied back at the Church and had an incredible meal provided by Leah, Sis. Tasha Shoemake, Kellee, and Tina. They continued the "western" theme with a menu of bbq'd chicken, homemade macaroni and cheese, chili, Frito boats, garlic bread - and topped it all off with root beer floats for dessert. The Youth spent the conclusion of the evening playing interactive games and connecting. One of the interactive games that was fun was called "Two Word". This game involves 2 people staring into each others face - and the goal is to only say two words to make the other person laugh. Crazy, crazy games. A lot of laughs to say the least.

For all of those youth ministers that think they have to have a huge budget to put on a successful evening - you must learn to improvise. We needed a back drop that could be used for a stage as well as a picture op, so we got some old Pallets, painted them brown, and zipped tied them together to make a cool looking backdrop. We then put "WANTED" posters (which I made) all over it to make it look like a wall. Part of the challenge / fun of working in youth ministry is attempting to be as creative as possible, with limited resources. HOWEVER, If anyone is reading this and would like to contribute some money to our youth ministry.....we will not deny you your blessing. - JW

Check out the Recap from Friday Night:

Wild West Youth Party Preparation...

2008-10-15T09:52:00.000-07:00

This Friday night is our Youth Ministry's Harvest Party. The Theme is - The Wild West. A lot of preparation is going into this night. We will definitely post pictures after the event. I had a great time taking pictures of some of the young people last night after service. We are making "WANTED" posters to be hung up around the Fellowship hall as decor.

By using the "WANTED" Posters, I am hoping to relay an additional message to the young people that they are "WANTED" by God and by the church. November will be a month that we launch the "WANTED" Campaign. In a day and society that young people are in search for identity, acceptance, and to be loved....the CHURCH extends the hands to those in pursuit. For they are "WANTED". No young person left behind.

If you have any ideas or thoughts on some wacky wild west games, please feel free to send them our way.

Here is a sneak peak at JoJo's wanted poster.

Stuff

2008-10-15T09:06:00.000-07:00

I have been reading a blog about a couple that have eliminated their debt using the Dave Ramsey method. Though I am not yet completely sold on him, I must admit that the debt free living part sure sounds good.

The thing that I don't like about all of these "get out of debt" programs, is.........the lack of spending. No more can you run to the store and pick up a little something - "just because". Gone are the days of "must have" shoes, or clothes - I don't know if I could actually live like that.

I once read in a book that there are two things you can do to get out of debt:

Cut Back
Make More Money

I am not really a Cut Back kinda girl, so therefore my only other option would be to Make More Money.

That being said.....I am having a yard sale. Actually it should be called an apartment sale (since we do not have a yard). A couple weeks ago I finally finished my spring cleaning, and decided to get rid of EVERYTHING that I have not used in the last year: home decor, accessories, purses, shoes, dishes, clothes, clothes and clothes.

I have finally come to my limit of having STUFF. I am tired of digging looking for something I vaguely remember having. I am done.

Don't get me wrong, I am sure you will still find me on the clearance aisles of my favorite spots: Marshall's, TJ Maxx, Home Goods, Macy's, Nordstrom Rack, Target. But, I can guarantee that from now on I will be a wiser shopper (as I recall all the hours it took me to clean out 7 years worth of STUFF that I just HAD TO HAVE).

If you are in the area feel free to stop by and pick up a few things for yourself- you deserve it. :-)
-LW

~picture was taken of me and Ollie after church last night, doesn't he look so cute with his new haircut!

Addendum to: Sunday School Class Part I - Bus Kids

2008-10-13T08:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had to confiscate a blue bandanna that one of the bus girls had been flashing to the other girls.

I was dying laughing inside, while I was sternly telling her to "Hand over her rag", thinking of ME being in this situation.
All in all it was one of the best classes we have had in a while.
Later this week I plan to finish this post with the aspect of the church girls that are in my class.
Until next time....-LW

What a Night!

2008-10-11T19:08:00.001-07:00

Friday night is our Youth Ministry Night. It is our goal to have a variety of events / activities in our department that would be fun, challenging, and desirous to attend. Its the end of a school week, and our mission is for young people to feel up to the challenge to go to youth night rather than go home and go to sleep.

Last night was our MidSkool Movement / HiSkool Revolution Break out Night. Luis Abbott along with Christian Johnson are developing into some awesome leaders. They are helping coordinate this huge group within our youth ministry. On Sunday Mornings, we have well over 60 Middle School youth. The last few days they have strategized, decorated, and studied for a big launch on Friday Night. Room 9, which is shared with 20 different ministries was the location of the MidSkool Movement last night. I was unable to be upstairs during their Session, but I heard they did an awesome job.

Last night the subject being discussed in both break out sessions was that of GRACE - and how it applies to a teenage life. It was amazing discussing the topic of Grace, and understanding that Christ Loves us Unconditionally and that it is the unmerited favor of God. I think it is a subject that not a lot of apostolic young people fully grasp. That it is through the Grace of God that we obtain MERCY. As I began to share with the High School and Young Adults Session, I was excited to see the attention of first time visitors so tuned in. It was awesome. When a unchurched youth hears that there is a God that loves them and cares for them - while they are sinners, its great to see their eyes light up.

This morning I met with the Blue Bomber Crew in the Prayer Room and we had an incredible prayer time. God refreshed and renewed our Bus Team. I am astounded every week how tenacious our Crew is to reach unchurched kids. It is very inspiring. At times they motivate me, just by their continual dedication to their ministry.

That's it for tonight. Sunday Mornings always come quickly. - JW

Sunday School Class Part I - Bus Kids

2008-10-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

Today I thought I would post about my Sunday School class. A little background (for those of you that do not know):

The class is for Teen Girls grades 7th-8th
We average 30 girls every week (about half are church girls, and half from our bus ministry)
I assist our Pastor's wife, Sis Tasha Shoemake, in teaching this class

If you know anything about our church, then you are aware of the BLUE BOMBER. I cannot begin to tell you how our bus ministry has revolutionized ME. I have been raised in the church my entire life. Never have I had to deal with the following:

14 year old girls getting pregnant (and wanting to keep the baby because "they will get a check for it every month")
talking girls out of fighting (I have to admit this one is more due to the fact that I would not want to get hurt trying to break one up..lol)
taking class pictures and having to tell girls to "Please put down the gang signs"
trying to convince girl's that at the age of 12 they ARE NOT IN LOVE
lack of work ethic
lack of respect/disobedience to teachers/authority (I have the UTMOST respect for the teachers that have these kids Monday-Friday)

The hardest thing for me is trying to relate to these girl's - because I can't. I don't know how they feel, I can't relate to the things they deal with, I never have felt the pressure's that they feel. For the first time I feel bad that I have always had parent's who I knew loved me, wanted me, made me feel good about myself, and who are still married.

Lately this has been my struggle. I want so badly to know what to tell them, to help them, to change them, to want them to be better people, to want them to live for God....but I don't know how.

I hope that it does not seem like I am complaining, I love working with these kids. I find it challenging and it is continually taking me out of my comfort zone (which I need to get out of anyways). If I had to change something it wouldn't be a bus kid or the way they act, it would be me - that God would help Me to be what they need.

Bus Ministry has impacted my life. It has changed my view of people. It has changed my view of life. It has helped me want to give to those less fortunate - not just for the sake of giving, but because I have met the less fortunate. It has given me more love for people. It has made me appreciate everything a little more. It has made me want to make a difference in my world, my neighborhood.

I am a better person because of it -LW

Interesting Monday Evening...

2008-10-07T07:48:00.001-07:00

I was reminded of the multiple purposes a youth minister serves to a local church on Monday Evening. Not only is a youth minister expected to connect, motivate, encourage, and entertain at times. There are times when a Youth Minister becomes so much more. I am renewed in my role after Monday Night.

I am unable to go into details, but I thank the Lord I was able to connect to a young person that really needed someone. Often times we get so caught up with programs, activities, making sure everything goes just right - that we miss what its all about - and that is simply being able to not only connect, but to build solid relationships with young people.

I am anticipating a great week ahead. This Friday Night is our MidSkool Movement and our HiSkool Revolution Break out Sessions. The Theme of this Friday night is "Grace - and how it applies to my life." So often times we expect our young people to know what the Grace of God is. I really believe the subject of Grace is what our generation needs to fully understand and grasp.

I am about to enjoy a cup of coffee and spend some time chillin with Ollie. - JW

Post Maximum Velocity thoughts..

2008-10-04T22:21:00.000-07:00

The highly anticipated Maximum Velocity Youth Conference has come and gone. It was absolutely an incredible 24 hours. On Friday night, there were well over 1,100 people and on Saturday around 350. The worship of the young people and the power of God that swept through the alters was just highlights in themselves. But when you add the ingredient of great fellowship and friendships...it makes the weekend perfect. Leah and I were able to spend time this weekend with some great friends. As I previously stated I really enjoy the friendships that I have with other youth pastors and ministers from other churches.

The more time goes by, and the older I get - the more I value quality friendships. I was able to hang out with Steve Caballero, Stephen Barker, Eli Lopez, Brandon Miraflor, Brad Allard, Chris Salyards and just a ton of incredible dudes. What I love about all these guys is that the common thread between all of them is that they are so "in love with Jesus". I know it sounds cheesy, but its the truth. I watch how these men in their respected cities and churches turn their worlds upside down, but then are able to come together on a district level and work towards a common goal of impacting the lives of young people.

It was very interesting on Saturday Night, we went to the Cheesecake Factory with Jesse & Angela Pinero, Matt & Danelle Silviera, Adam & Misti Wiley, and Marisa Luke. I had a great time. Matt Siliviera was sharing some interesting famous "boo boos" of his beloved. We spent a few hours there hanging out and enjoying a really fun conversation. Maybe others will blog about it....

I have a big day tomorrow with the Blue Bomber Crew. It is Super Kids Church Sunday. I always look forward to those days. James Wang and Kevin Theobald do an awesome job with the 200 plus kids that will be in the Youth Center. I will blog on Monday about the results of Super Kids Church.

-JW

Communication

2008-10-02T22:47:00.000-07:00

I just spent the last 3 hours in a Sunday School Meeting with some incredible people. They are the leaders of the Blue Bomber Crew and the Management team of the First Church Sunday School. We were discussing a possible solution to facilitate ongoing growth in our classes. As I sat there and listened to each individual speak, the more I really understood the concept of communication. It is so important if the team is going to be successful or progressive.

Even though, I may not have agreed with every perspective that was being given, I still respect that the form of communication was in progress. It helps me understands how and what a person is thinking or feeling. It is my goal to be communicative with the people I work with. From Volunteers to even friends. The concept of communication in our walk with God is even so crucial. Just my random thoughts for the night.

Maximum Velocity is tomorrow night. I am looking forward to Tirso and Rachel Gonzalez of Sanger staying with us. I am anticipating seeing friends from all over Norcal. Connecting to friends is always a highlight at conferences.

I think I'm gonna rock a crazy pocket square @ Maximum Velocity. Wayne Francis Style - JW

I've been tagged (Thank you Monica) -LW

2008-10-02T13:19:00.000-07:00

6 unspectacular things about me:

1. I have three brothers and one sister
2. My family has always had reptiles as pets (snakes, lizards, tortoise's- to name a few)
3. I can read an entire book in one sitting....if it is good
4. My very first date with my husband was when I was 15 years old
5. I worked at Ethan Allen for six years...thus began my furniture fetish
6. My sister and I share the same middle name....Renay

I am going to break the rules, and not tag anyone.

Weekend Update #2

2008-09-29T11:18:00.000-07:00

This has to have been one of the nicest weekends I have had in a very long time. It had all the makings of being perfect:

I was able to fellowship with other young married couples (a rare treat)
I learned to cook something new (I am enjoying this more and more)
I read a good book (Anne of Green Gables..don't you just love Gilbert...sigh)
I went to dinner with a girlfriend
and last but not least, spent some quality time with my hubby

Friday night after work I met one of my dearest friends for dinner, we went to PF Chang's. I do not have very many close friends -the saying "quality not quantity" totally applies to me in this area. I really appreciate the few that I feel I can be 100% real, 100% transparent with. Rev. KH- "Thank you for letting me be me, and not holding it against me..lol".

Saturday Ollie woke me up at our standard time of 6am for his potty break(don't you just love apartment living?). After that I was up so decided to give him a bath - I think this traumatized him a little since he was barely awake.

Saturday night's dinner was a success. Everything somehow just turned out....somehow..lol. I wound up making only the Brisket and Latkes (potato and vegetable) and purchased the Challah bread- I was able to find a grocery store close by that had 3 aisles of Kosher foods. There was such a wide selection of food at the dinner. The best new dish that I tried was called Pupusas. For those of you that do not know, this is a dish from El Salvador. Carlos and Ruth Zamora brought them, and they were DELICIOUS!

Sunday was busy. In my Sunday School class we had around 28 girls. I LOVE spending Sunday mornings with my class - they are such a great group of girls (SS class post to follow soon)! The weekend ended with an AWESOME evening service.

I am usually EXHAUSTED on Monday's. Today is different though. I feel ready to face the week. We are hosting Maximum Velocity this week. I am looking forward to seeing many friends I have not seen in a while. If you are in the area, make sure and stop by. - LW

What a weekend.

2008-09-29T08:55:00.001-07:00

The weekend begin with a 3 hour trip to Elk Grove to preach for the Rock Group. We had an awesome service. There were about 120 young people. It is always a great opportunity to be with a great youth group with one of my best friends Johannes. When Leah and I go to Elk Grove, we usually stay with Johannes, Tawni, and little Rori. We stayed up late on Friday night talking about youth ministry, life, and future. I always value those conversations. We woke up the next morning and went to Sargent's Coffee. What a great place. Enjoyed an awesome Cinnamon Roll and a white mocha. Let me just tell you that little Rori loves coffee. She was posted up @ Sargent's coffee with her iced coffee and elmo stuffed animal. She is quite the cutie.

Allow me to throw in that one of the best parts of my 24 hour road trip was the time I was able to spend with Jordan Holston. Jordan is one of the most solid young men of Revivalution Youth Ministry. He has been consistently living for God all his life. He is our Music Coordinator for the Revivalution Real Time. He has some good friends in the The Rock Church, so when he found out I was going there, he came along for the ride. We had a blast talking about music & funny stories.

We arrived back in San Jose in the afternoon - just in time for me to tag in with our Blue Bomber Crew that had a very successful morning reaching into the neighborhood.

Later that evening we attended the Young Married's Ethnic Dinner - organized by Sam and Monica Hassas. Leah will blog about it later...but let me say that there were some crazy looking dishes. People were supposed to come dressed in their cultural wear, however Sam and Monica were the only ones that did it. But Sam definitely came through [ See Pic above ]. I stayed true to my Caucasian side and feasted on the fried chicken brought by Brian and Genia Wood and also ate my wife's homemade Jewish Dishes. It is a little bit of pride that overtakes me - that when my wife brings a homemade dish to potlucks or dinners, that her dishes are always a hit. Leah is an incredible cook.

Blue Bomber update - We had a wild Sunday morning to say the least, but the end result was we had 182 on the Blue Bomber this weekend. It's amazing that within 5 months we have doubled our number. It is our goal to have a consistent 200 on the Bomber by December of this year. There are many wonderful kids that ride the bomber. I wish time and place would allow me to share all the great stories. Maybe I will blog it in the near future. - JW

Off to Sacramento

2008-09-26T10:37:00.000-07:00

Got up extra early this morning to run Pastor to the Oakland Airport. He is flying out to attend the Justin Jones Memorial Service in Houston this weekend. As I sat in Bay Area traffic this morning, it donned on me how big the Bay Area really is. It's amazing.

On my way back from Oakland, I begin to think about my trip to the Rock Church in Elk Grove tonight. I will be ministering to the ROCK GROUP pastored by my good buddy Johannes Escudero. There are a few things that the Lord has layed on my heart the past few days, so we will see how it all turns out.

We have been going consistently every Friday Night here at the local Revivalution Youth Ministry, that I gave the young people the night off. October is going to be crazy busy with a lot of exciting things taking place here. One of the events is Maximum Velocity next weekend. Bro Tim Zuniga is going to be preaching, and there are just some preachers you can just sit and listen to for a while...he is one of them. He is probably one of the most relative Preachers to young people that is out there today. He is in the ranks of Scott Graham, Calvin Jean, & Wayne Francis.

I really hope to spend some time with Bro Zuniga. When I first became a Youth minister in 1998, I remember looking for him at various conferences and camps. I would find him and pull him to the side, and pick his brain for as long as I could. Midnight Madness Lock In, of which we celebrated our 10th year this year, was semi modeled after a youth conference Bro Zuniga started in Chula Vista entitled "Live the Life".

If you are a youth minister reading this , and you are in driving distance to San Jose on October 3rd -4th, you owe it to yourself to come over and expose your young people to his ministry.

Keep me in your prayers tonight. - JW

Is The Weekend Almost Here???

2008-09-25T10:08:00.000-07:00

I live every week to get to the weekend. Even though our weekends are always busy, I love the thought of not getting up and having to go to work. Don't get me wrong, I love my job, but there is nothing like knowing that I get a few days away from the daily grind.

This weekend I get to have Friday night off. I know to many of you that is normal, but when you are used to getting off work and then usually doing some sort of work at various youth events this is a rare treat. My husband will be preaching at the Rock Church's youth night. He is leaving before I can get off of work, therefore I get a night all to myself.

What to do....what to do...Do I stay home and rest? Do I clean house? Do I spend time with my parents? Do I go shopping? Do I read a good book? Do I go visit a friend who had a baby almost two months ago -who I have yet to visit? Do I try to meet two of my girlfriends for dinner?

Saturday we have a young marrieds event at our church. It is an ethnic night - you are supposed to bring a few dishes that reflect your ethnic background. For those of you that do not know I am Jewish and Mexican. If I was to take the easy route I would bring a Mexican dish (but I am sure there will be a TON of these at the dinner). I have opted to bring a few Jewish dishes. One minor problem is that I HAVE NEVER MADE ANY JEWISH DISH BEFORE!!! Saturday morning I will be attempting to make the following:

Latkes (a.k.a potato pancakes)
Brisket
Shabbat Challah (a Jewish bread)

Please pray for me as I embark on this endeavor :-). I will try and post afterwards to let you know how it goes. I hope all of you in blog land have a wonderful weekend!

Until next time...-LW

Visit to Acts 29 Youth Ministry

2008-09-24T23:41:00.001-07:00

As a youth pastor deep in the trenches of youth ministry, I always find it fun visiting other youth ministries. I don't know, even online, I am always checking out and researching other youth websites. Tonight we took a trip to Stockton - Christian Life Center where Brandon Miraflor is the Youth Pastor of Acts 29 Youth Ministry. Tim, Luis, and I arrived in Stockton early enough to eat at some hole in the wall mexican place called Cancun. I remember when I was in Bible College it was the cheapest mexican restaurant in town. We enjoyed the food and conversation - and then made our way to the ever famous 9025 N. West Lane. Acts 29 conducts their High School service in the Gym and the Middle School Ministry occupies one of the Rooms in the KCJH Radio building. It was an awesome experience. The structure, creativity, and communication of the youth ministry staff is impressive. We definitely took alot of notes, and were able to pick the brain of Middle School Youth Pastor Tim Ramonette. I also got a chance to hang with Brandon Miraflor. He taught a great lesson on " The Keys to the Kingdom - beyond Acts 2:38". There was a time of prayer after the lesson. We had a pretty enjoyable car conversation on the way home discussing the good ole' days of NBA Slam Dunks. Tonight was a worthwhile experience, because not only was I able to see an incredible youth ministry in motion, but I was able to spend time with some cool young men from our church. - JW

We have entered the world of Blogging...

2008-09-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

It is finally official. The West Family consisting of Jason, Leah, & Ollie have entered the bloggesphere. Please be patient with us as we become adjusted to this new system in our lives. We are glad that you will join with us in THE WESTSIDE STORY -JW

I cannot believe we started a blog! Everytime I have been told (by Monica) that I need one my response has been ~ "I won't start one unless I update it on a regular basis and I really don't have a lot of exciting things to blog about (maybe I should rephrase that to "exciting things that I CAN blog about"..lol).
Anyways, here we are....I hope that we will not disappoint you and will keep you entertained and updated on what is going on in our lives. ~LW