Orange you glad I'm back?

Ok, so I just got back from The Orange Conference in Atlanta, Ga. (I thought of making some comment about flying in and my arms being tired, but ultimately figured that just writing I'd thought about it made clear enough my thought process.)

If you don't know, The Orange Conference is a HUGE pre-school/children/youth ministry conference. It provided excellent speakers and wonderful break-out sessions where we learned everything from dance moves to how to diplomatically share your vision for your particular area of ministry. I, for one, have recently inherited the Children's Ministry at our church. This includes planning and entertainment for children ages birth through 6th grade - and - directing the weekly pre-school program.

I am still freaking a little that this is actually what I'm doing now. I'm still baffled that God would use me in this way. I'm still amazed at the way He spoke to me -directly, clearly and concisely- throughout the conference.

If I had doubts before that He was serious about calling me to this ministry, they are gone. If I had doubts that I was the right person for the job, they are gone. If I had doubts about my sanity, they are still here...BUT...I'm more ok with it because I know God knows that I know I'm half-crazy. And - He chose me anyway. So if it works for Him, who am I to argue?

Put me and my ministry on your prayer-list. And don't EVER take it off! (Please-oh-please-oh-please) I've got a lot coming up that is ending in the next month and a lot that has to begin in the next month and beyond.

Right now, I need God-hearted staff and volunteers who want what God wants for His children. (Lord, just let them hear Your calling and come right to me! And if it be Your will, please can at least one of them be a MAN?!?)

Right now, I want BIG comfy pillows for the pre-school rooms and did I mention before a MAN?? (He can be a volunteer or a pre-school teacher but I want a fun-loving, God-fearing man with a calling for children - so the children can know a different perspective. (BONUS FACTOR: I would have someone nearby to get the heavy box off the top shelf!)

Right now, it's Another Day in Montgomery and I'm freaked out, baffled, awe-struck and hungry for God's people to come my way (not to mention honey-barbecue chicken tenders with mac-n-cheese)!!