We left Salt Lake City in search of God's country… otherwise known as Zion National Park. Deep in the Utah wilderness, the Virgin River has been hard at work, carving deep canyons out of ancient sand dunes, molding a landscape like no other. The road to Zion led us through the rocky Mojave Desert, winding through painted plateaus that rise gracefully from the ground. I fully understand how people fall in love with the desert. It possesses a beauty all its own. Red canyons stand stark against deep blue sky, powerful. And the most striking of them all - Zion Canyon. The deep bends and wandering forks of the Virgin create canyon upon canyon upon canyon, towering over the river valley.
We rolled into the park with just enough time to set up camp - right at the base of a canyon, along the Virgin River. The Yoder-home proved a sturdy "tent" and our lofted bed made for the best night of sleep I've ever had camping. We woke up the next morning later than anticipated… the canyon walls hiding the sun until 9am. So we ate a quick breakfast and set out on our mission - to climb Angel's Landing.
Angel's Landing is a steep peak that sits atop an impossibly thin canyon. Carved from a tight bend in the Virgin River, its walls rise over 1400 feet from the canyon floor - sheer cliffs on either side of the ridge line. It was named by a Methodist minister who believed the peak could serve as a point for angels to land and survey the Zion valley. The trail to Angel's Landing is hailed as a symbol of creativity and ingenuity of early park rangers. Chains were placed along the ridge, while "steps" were chiseled into the rocks to create foot holds. Strenuous and treacherous, it is not recommended for anyone fearful of heights…. I happen to have a fear of heights.
I should say that I was not forced to hike this trail. In fact - it may have been my idea. However, I was misled to believe that the trail isn't nearly as scary as its made out to be. Tom and Erica, our hosts from Salt Lake City, hiked the trail and told us it really wasn't that bad. "There were grandmas doing it!" That must have been one rockin' granny….
The hike was easy enough at the start. A series of switchbacks led us up a side canyon - cardio intense but manageable. We hiked 2 miles up to the Angel's Landing trail head. Then things got real serious. A mere half mile to the top… but with the possibility of death around every corner it made for a long half mile. As we stepped out onto the ridge I suddenly became very aware of my heart beat. I have a tendency to go into adrenaline overload and pass out. Corey calls me the equivalent of a fainting goat, It happens mostly in medical or surgical scenarios… really any time needles are involved. (I also have a small fear of needles…) I knew I'd have to keep my heart rate in check in order to survive the ordeal, lest I pass out and go tumbling off the 1400 foot cliff The climb itself was not too difficult. Don't get me wrong… it was definitely a climb. The fact that they call it a "trail" is beyond my understanding. You scramble over boulders, shimmy up crevices and scoot along ledges. "Trail" is more a loose term for - a way to the top. It definitely required some strength- but none of it was beyond my ability. It was my mind that I was battling more than anything else. Seeing the whole accent ahead of me was dizzying… So I just had to focus on where I was at the moment. And thats the trick of it really. Purely a mental thing. If you allow the mountain to be greater than you - it will be.
We started our ascent. Holding the chain with one hand, while l scrambled over rocks.. I immediately felt the fear. "Corey I'm scared. I don't think I can do this." "You can do it hon, just one step at a time." So that's what I did. One step at a time, refusing to look down, breathing slow and telling myself "I am not on a mountain. I am not on a mountain. I am not walking a cliff…" We made our slow rise to the top. Every so often we'd meet someone else along the path… on their way down from the top. We would carefully pass by one another and gather encouragement that the view was "definitely worth it." . Their presence was a comfort, knowing that someone else was crazy enough to attempt the climb, that someone else had survived. My patient husband coached me every step of the way, standing close beside me, to catch me if I slipped and shield me from the wind. We took frequent breaks to rest our shaky legs, but kept a steady pace, lest we take a look about and realize where we were. The longer we stopped the harder it was to keep going… the fear would settle in again - the little voice that said - "There's no way you can do this. You're not strong enough. And remember, you still have to get back down…" So we kept moving. One step at a time, until finally… we had done it. We had reached the summit.
The panorama was absolutely incredible. One side offered a view of the widening river valley, the sun glittering off the water far below. The other side was all canyon, layers and layers of canyons painted in desert hues. It is a sight that can only be seen from the top of a mountain. A sight you have to work for. We sat at the peak for a long while, taking it all in. Other hikers joined us at the top, which made for a feeling of camaraderie that was almost heavenly. Total strangers congratulating each other on a journey well traveled. Enjoying the spoils of their labor. After taking plenty of pictures we made our way down. Bolstered by our success, we moved with a bit of confidence. As we passed others making their ascent, faces white and knees shaking, we found ourselves encouraging them, "You're almost there! Its so worth it!" We reached the base of the trail, kissed the ground and each other and thanked the Lord for protecting us along the way. We made it out alive and it felt awesome. We hiked proud and content to the valley floor and headed back at camp where we made ourselves a hearty supper to reward ourselves for accomplishing the feat.
The whole experiences felt like an allegory for a life of faith. At times, it is simply a steady climb, one switchback after another. At other times, you'll find yourself climbing a narrow ridge, with cliffs on either side. At those times, life is scary and risky and overwhelming. The mountain ahead of you - weather it be your finances, your health, your relationships - towers over your. The sight of it is dizzying. All you can do it take it one step at a time, keeping your eyes steady on Christ, the path. If you allow your gaze to wander… if you begin to focus on the challenge ahead of you… the mountains, and the depths below - you will begin to slip. Like Peter, who, with His eyes on Christ, stepped out of the boat and walked upon the sea… then suddenly realized the waves crashing round him, took his eyes off the Lord and began to sink….. If you allow the mountain to be greater than you - it will be. Instead you must fix your eyes upon Him who will keep your feet steady and make your paths straight.
Along the way, just when you want to give up, someone who has "been there" crosses your path and offers encouragement enough to continue on. You move on… Every step a step of faith, believing your climb will be worth it. All your hard work… facing all your fears … will be fruitful in the end. Until somehow, you've reached the top - you've conquered your mountain - and you catch a glimpse of heaven. You drink it in. Knowing moments like these are few and far between. Then a funny thing happens, having climbed the mountain, you find yourself transformed. Filled with a new confidence. As you head back down the mountain, your footing feels secure. As you pass others along the way, you realize you've "been there" and offer encouragement to help them on their journey. A beautiful cycle.
If you are lucky enough, you have a companion with you on the journey. Someone to stand beside you, to catch you when you slip, to shield you from the wind, to tell you - "You can do this." I couldn't be more grateful for my amazing husband who joins me on this journey. As we continue forward, I know we will have plenty of mountains to climb, big and small, literal and figurative - but if we keep the faith and take it one step at a time - we can summit each and every one.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Friday, October 26, 2012
Honeymoon Tour - Salt Lake City, UT
We left Cheyenne, WY early Saturday morning and spent the day on interstate 80 traveling west 450 miles to Salt Lake City, UT. I have never in my life experienced more straight-line winds. The treacherous highway often becomes impassable in the winter months due to snow drifts. Winds come sweeping across the wide plateaus and whip up through the canyons. To call it scary would be an understatement. Gust of 40 mph shook us to the core. Our faithful mini-van held its own though. Weighed down by our sound system and camping gear, the Yoder-home never lost traction. And Wyoming is not what you would call "heavily populated" either. For long stretches of time you could look across the arid land straight out to the horizon - on either side. Not a trace of civilization in sight. Desert as far as the eye could see. No power lines, no fences, no barns or homes. And you can forget about gas stations. The trip requires a certain amount of planning to avoid being stranded in the middle of the desert. As we neared Utah, the terrain transformed from low bluffs and plateaus to rising foothills and finally the mountains. Interstate 80 takes you straight through the mountains, winding through deep canyons of slanted sandstone until suddenly you reach the beautiful valley of Salt Lake. Surrounded on three sides by mountains, the city felt like a mecca midst the wilderness. Perhaps that is why Joseph Smith decided to settle there. Utah is most definitely underrated.
We found last minute accommodations via our friends Todd and Emily Marriot of the ah-mazing Battle Victorious. When they heard we were looking for a place to lay our weary heads in Todd's hometown, Emily vowed to call "everyone she knew!" Stepping up to the bat: Tom and Erica Power and their lively family - 3 year old Ryan, 5 month old Abby and 5 year old Jasmine - their 130lb Great Dane. All three were waiting outside to greet us as we pulled into the driveway, the dog however was the only one that stood tall enough to stick her head in the window to say hello. Jasmine was monstrous - on her hind legs she stood taller than Corey - but so gentle and loved to cuddle! The Power family became instant friends. We connected on our common love of hiking and the outdoors and they coached us on the sights and hikes we should check out during our stay.
We had the pleasure of joining them the next morning for church, which was actually our first church service since the wedding! It was so nice to be able to soak in the word and take time to worship. The message focused on know-it alls. We laughed out loud when we saw it in the bulletin… You see - we sit on opposite sides of the know-it-all coin. Corey likes to make quick decisions. I like to do a lot of research - a LOT of research. It drives Corey crazy. Before I can make a decision I have to know every outcome of every possibility, weigh the pros and cons and make an informed choice. It takes me 45 min to order a sandwich. You can see the potential for conflict. The pastor focused on being open to God's direction and seeking wisdom from those who know a little more than you. Encouraging us that we will never exceed our current abilities without begin open to wisdom. Both of us were able to glean from the message. We left the service inspired and ready for adventure. However we weren't exactly sure what to do with ourselves.
I'd like to say we were excited to arrive in Salt Lake City but we couldn't help but wonder what exactly we were doing there. Coming down off our Rock Mountain high, it was hard to imagine what else the Lord could have in store. We didn't know anyone in the city - no fan base what-so-ever and communication with our venue was spotty at best. Booking is an exhausting beast. You may send out 500 emails, make 40 phone calls, leave just as many messages and receive but one response. We had received that one response from Sugar House Coffee - an eclectic coffee house in the trendy up and coming Sugar House district. Though the day was confirmed, the time was not…. We weren't sure that they were even expecting us, but we committed to showing up anyway.
We arrived at Sugar House and sure enough, the barista didn't know we were supposed to play that night. She welcomed us in anyway though and directed us where to set up. The coffeehouse was crowded for a Sunday night and we were enthusiastically received. After the show we were approached by some folks who were interested in having us play at their harvest music festival next year. As we got to talking we found out the they had only stopped by to clean up after their festival from the day before, but they heard our music and decided to hang out and listen instead. The festival - by the way - was held in the Sugar House Coffee parking lot! "There's no reason you guys shouldn't have been on stage yesterday!" They started offering us loads and loads of wisdom in booking and promotion - and we were all ears. Remembering the message from the church service that morning. Corey and I would love to exceed our own ability in the booking realm, so we listened intently to the concert promoter and entrepreneur who filled our minds with creative ways to succeed in the music business. We ended up talking with them for hours until closing time and made plans to hang out the next day as well. All of us were blown away at our chance meeting and thankful for our new friends. The Lord never ceases to amaze me.
On our last day in Salt Lake City we set out to summit Fraggy Peak at the top of Antelope Island. Antelope island is located 7 miles off the mainland, in the middle of the Great Salt Lake. The desert island is laden with low lying shrubs and jagged rocks that cut through the earth abruptly. Surrounded by the hazy lake, it made for an unworldly scene. Corey believed we were climbing to Mordor. And climb we did, 2,100 feet in 3 miles - a steep and strenuous hike. It took us 2 hours to reach the peak - and the last half mile was more rock climbing the hiking - following the ridge line to the top. It was our first summit hike and we felt like kings.
Reaching a new high on our journey, we left Salt Lake eager to see what the Lord had in store for us next. And to think we had doubted Him... How often we resemble the Israelites. Though God freed them from their captors, split the Red Sea, made water flow from rocks in the desert and provided manna like dew every morning, the Israelites balked at every new challenge on their journey to the Promised Land. Give us faith Lord, to see past the desert, to your purpose.
We found last minute accommodations via our friends Todd and Emily Marriot of the ah-mazing Battle Victorious. When they heard we were looking for a place to lay our weary heads in Todd's hometown, Emily vowed to call "everyone she knew!" Stepping up to the bat: Tom and Erica Power and their lively family - 3 year old Ryan, 5 month old Abby and 5 year old Jasmine - their 130lb Great Dane. All three were waiting outside to greet us as we pulled into the driveway, the dog however was the only one that stood tall enough to stick her head in the window to say hello. Jasmine was monstrous - on her hind legs she stood taller than Corey - but so gentle and loved to cuddle! The Power family became instant friends. We connected on our common love of hiking and the outdoors and they coached us on the sights and hikes we should check out during our stay.
We had the pleasure of joining them the next morning for church, which was actually our first church service since the wedding! It was so nice to be able to soak in the word and take time to worship. The message focused on know-it alls. We laughed out loud when we saw it in the bulletin… You see - we sit on opposite sides of the know-it-all coin. Corey likes to make quick decisions. I like to do a lot of research - a LOT of research. It drives Corey crazy. Before I can make a decision I have to know every outcome of every possibility, weigh the pros and cons and make an informed choice. It takes me 45 min to order a sandwich. You can see the potential for conflict. The pastor focused on being open to God's direction and seeking wisdom from those who know a little more than you. Encouraging us that we will never exceed our current abilities without begin open to wisdom. Both of us were able to glean from the message. We left the service inspired and ready for adventure. However we weren't exactly sure what to do with ourselves.
I'd like to say we were excited to arrive in Salt Lake City but we couldn't help but wonder what exactly we were doing there. Coming down off our Rock Mountain high, it was hard to imagine what else the Lord could have in store. We didn't know anyone in the city - no fan base what-so-ever and communication with our venue was spotty at best. Booking is an exhausting beast. You may send out 500 emails, make 40 phone calls, leave just as many messages and receive but one response. We had received that one response from Sugar House Coffee - an eclectic coffee house in the trendy up and coming Sugar House district. Though the day was confirmed, the time was not…. We weren't sure that they were even expecting us, but we committed to showing up anyway.
We arrived at Sugar House and sure enough, the barista didn't know we were supposed to play that night. She welcomed us in anyway though and directed us where to set up. The coffeehouse was crowded for a Sunday night and we were enthusiastically received. After the show we were approached by some folks who were interested in having us play at their harvest music festival next year. As we got to talking we found out the they had only stopped by to clean up after their festival from the day before, but they heard our music and decided to hang out and listen instead. The festival - by the way - was held in the Sugar House Coffee parking lot! "There's no reason you guys shouldn't have been on stage yesterday!" They started offering us loads and loads of wisdom in booking and promotion - and we were all ears. Remembering the message from the church service that morning. Corey and I would love to exceed our own ability in the booking realm, so we listened intently to the concert promoter and entrepreneur who filled our minds with creative ways to succeed in the music business. We ended up talking with them for hours until closing time and made plans to hang out the next day as well. All of us were blown away at our chance meeting and thankful for our new friends. The Lord never ceases to amaze me.
On our last day in Salt Lake City we set out to summit Fraggy Peak at the top of Antelope Island. Antelope island is located 7 miles off the mainland, in the middle of the Great Salt Lake. The desert island is laden with low lying shrubs and jagged rocks that cut through the earth abruptly. Surrounded by the hazy lake, it made for an unworldly scene. Corey believed we were climbing to Mordor. And climb we did, 2,100 feet in 3 miles - a steep and strenuous hike. It took us 2 hours to reach the peak - and the last half mile was more rock climbing the hiking - following the ridge line to the top. It was our first summit hike and we felt like kings.
Reaching a new high on our journey, we left Salt Lake eager to see what the Lord had in store for us next. And to think we had doubted Him... How often we resemble the Israelites. Though God freed them from their captors, split the Red Sea, made water flow from rocks in the desert and provided manna like dew every morning, the Israelites balked at every new challenge on their journey to the Promised Land. Give us faith Lord, to see past the desert, to your purpose.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Honeymoon Tour - Fort Collins, CO / Cheyenne, WY
We finished up our time in the Denver area by exploring the beautiful town of Golden. Nestled snug in the foothills of the Rockies, Golden has a small town charm that makes you want to stay awhile. So we did, exploring the shops and taking in the cold Colorado air. After visiting Buffalo Bill's grave on top of Lookout Mountain we met up with our dear old friend, John Carpenter. John was a part of Summon The Fleet, Corey's infamous melodic hardcore band from our Visible Music College days, so we spent the night reminiscing on the "epic days of our youth." The beauty of friends like John is that you can meet up after years apart and feel like no time has passed at all. True friendship knows no time.
We said goodbye to our Colorado home Friday afternoon on route for Fort Collins, CO. We were booked to play at The Alley Cat, an artsy coffee house that attracts students from the adjacent university. The whole place was buzzing - call it the coffee or the college kids. Corey and I couldn't help but feel old as we gazed around, commenting on how young they all looked. Age creeps up on you like that. I remember thinking I had arrived at adulthood when I turned 18… now 18 year olds look like babies… Sigh.
We played a 45 minute set before their Open Mic. Afterwards we stuck around to take in a few local acts. Open Mics are always an interesting mix - you just never know what you're gonna get when you allow the general public a microphone… Depending on the community you can count on at least one old cowboy, one retired choir director who still prefers to sing with classical vocal technique, a lead guitarist turned songwriter who really should have left singing to the vocalists and a slew of wide eyed youth playing for a crowd for the very first time. With the right group it can be a great community of support for musicians young and old. Amongst the usual suspects that night we witnessed a two piece folk band - who covered our fav Old Crow Medicine Show song - Wagon Wheel, as well as a a 90's throwback band who covered Eagle Eye Cherry (remember him? me neither - ha).
After we finished socializing we drove 40 miles north to our host home in Cheyenne, WY. Our host, Aaron was a contact from Corey's tour with Redefined in Red. He lived in a doublewide with his wife, two kids and two dogs (a basset hound and the fattest cocker spaniel I have ever seen in my life… she looked ilke and Ewok - it was unnatural!) A crowded home to be sure, but one of the sweetest families we've ever met Though he had to leave for work before the sun came up, Aaron waited for us to arrive and talked with us until well after midnight. He was an open book, sharing with us about his family, his vision for ministry and testimony upon testimony of God's goodness. He asked about our tour and offered some encouragement. It was a wonderful night of fellowship with a man that Corey had met for 20 minutes 2 years ago… What a great heart. We slept in his 11 year old daughter's room, painted bright pink and covered with stuffed animals. I'm pretty sure Corey used "Mrs. M&M" as his pillow and our comforter was a fleece blanket smattered with Disney Princesses .
The whole experience got me thinking about Martha and Mary…. We all know the story… Martha and Mary invite Jesus and his disciples into their home. Martha is busy in the kitchen, frantically preparing the meal and getting things in order. Her younger sister Mary on the other hand, is in the living room, sitting at Jesus' feet. Martha being frustrated that all the work has fallen upon her, storms into the living room and says "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me! Being more of a Martha myself - I can totally see where Martha is coming from. There is so much work to be done! And lazy couch potato little sister over there is just sitting on her butt. However, rather than rebuking Mary, telling her to get her act together and be some help to her darling sister, Jesus instead rebukes Martha. "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away form her."
Corey and I have experienced a wide range of host homes. Some have pristine 3500 square foot homes with a guest suite complete with heated towels (so not making that up!) It is obvious that the host put a lot of time into making sure their home was in order before our arrival. The towels are freshly washed and folded neatly at the foot of the bed. The bathrooms have been stocked up with toilet paper and toiletries. The bed is made up with crisp linens and so many decorative pillows you're not sure you'll find a mattress underneath it all. Don't get me wrong, these homes are amazing… like staying at a resort or a bed and breakfast, However, the hosts that have the greatest impact on us are not necessarily the ones with the largest, most beautifully decorated homes, but rather the ones that choose to engage with us. Those that share their hearts and lives with us. Those people have chosen the "better" thing. Their homes may be a little worse for wear, you might have to search for a clean towel or restock the tp roll on your own. But you never have to guess for a minute what their first priority is - people. Loving people. And in a trailer park in an industrial city in Wyoming, we met one of the most loving people you'll ever meet.
It is my hope to learn from the Mary's of the world. To pause from my frantic "preparations" and choose the "better." To invest my time in the beautiful souls around me. I am sure it will make my life and heart all the richer.
We said goodbye to our Colorado home Friday afternoon on route for Fort Collins, CO. We were booked to play at The Alley Cat, an artsy coffee house that attracts students from the adjacent university. The whole place was buzzing - call it the coffee or the college kids. Corey and I couldn't help but feel old as we gazed around, commenting on how young they all looked. Age creeps up on you like that. I remember thinking I had arrived at adulthood when I turned 18… now 18 year olds look like babies… Sigh.
We played a 45 minute set before their Open Mic. Afterwards we stuck around to take in a few local acts. Open Mics are always an interesting mix - you just never know what you're gonna get when you allow the general public a microphone… Depending on the community you can count on at least one old cowboy, one retired choir director who still prefers to sing with classical vocal technique, a lead guitarist turned songwriter who really should have left singing to the vocalists and a slew of wide eyed youth playing for a crowd for the very first time. With the right group it can be a great community of support for musicians young and old. Amongst the usual suspects that night we witnessed a two piece folk band - who covered our fav Old Crow Medicine Show song - Wagon Wheel, as well as a a 90's throwback band who covered Eagle Eye Cherry (remember him? me neither - ha).
After we finished socializing we drove 40 miles north to our host home in Cheyenne, WY. Our host, Aaron was a contact from Corey's tour with Redefined in Red. He lived in a doublewide with his wife, two kids and two dogs (a basset hound and the fattest cocker spaniel I have ever seen in my life… she looked ilke and Ewok - it was unnatural!) A crowded home to be sure, but one of the sweetest families we've ever met Though he had to leave for work before the sun came up, Aaron waited for us to arrive and talked with us until well after midnight. He was an open book, sharing with us about his family, his vision for ministry and testimony upon testimony of God's goodness. He asked about our tour and offered some encouragement. It was a wonderful night of fellowship with a man that Corey had met for 20 minutes 2 years ago… What a great heart. We slept in his 11 year old daughter's room, painted bright pink and covered with stuffed animals. I'm pretty sure Corey used "Mrs. M&M" as his pillow and our comforter was a fleece blanket smattered with Disney Princesses .
The whole experience got me thinking about Martha and Mary…. We all know the story… Martha and Mary invite Jesus and his disciples into their home. Martha is busy in the kitchen, frantically preparing the meal and getting things in order. Her younger sister Mary on the other hand, is in the living room, sitting at Jesus' feet. Martha being frustrated that all the work has fallen upon her, storms into the living room and says "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me! Being more of a Martha myself - I can totally see where Martha is coming from. There is so much work to be done! And lazy couch potato little sister over there is just sitting on her butt. However, rather than rebuking Mary, telling her to get her act together and be some help to her darling sister, Jesus instead rebukes Martha. "Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away form her."
Corey and I have experienced a wide range of host homes. Some have pristine 3500 square foot homes with a guest suite complete with heated towels (so not making that up!) It is obvious that the host put a lot of time into making sure their home was in order before our arrival. The towels are freshly washed and folded neatly at the foot of the bed. The bathrooms have been stocked up with toilet paper and toiletries. The bed is made up with crisp linens and so many decorative pillows you're not sure you'll find a mattress underneath it all. Don't get me wrong, these homes are amazing… like staying at a resort or a bed and breakfast, However, the hosts that have the greatest impact on us are not necessarily the ones with the largest, most beautifully decorated homes, but rather the ones that choose to engage with us. Those that share their hearts and lives with us. Those people have chosen the "better" thing. Their homes may be a little worse for wear, you might have to search for a clean towel or restock the tp roll on your own. But you never have to guess for a minute what their first priority is - people. Loving people. And in a trailer park in an industrial city in Wyoming, we met one of the most loving people you'll ever meet.
It is my hope to learn from the Mary's of the world. To pause from my frantic "preparations" and choose the "better." To invest my time in the beautiful souls around me. I am sure it will make my life and heart all the richer.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Honeymoon Tour - Denver, CO
We were fortunate to spend the past 4 days enjoying good ole Denver CO, staying with Corey's uncle Brad and his beautiful wife Suzanne. After a full day of driving on Sunday, through a long stretch of flat, the mountains were a welcome sight. We arrived at their recently remodeled home in Arvada just in time for dinner. We met the "kids," two sweet and timid rescue dogs named Lizzie and Freckle and a friendly cat named Daisy. We spent the evening catching up over a wonderful home cooked meal. It was so nice to invest in some quality time with my new family. Having spent the past five years in Memphis, approximately 1,000 miles away from either of our families, Corey and I haven't had many opportunities to "get to know" the relatives. We welcomed the chance to visit at length, share stories and laughs and deepen our family ties.
On Monday we were booked to play at the Denver Rescue Mission's Lawrence Street Shelter in downtown Denver. The Lawrence Street Shelter, one of many ministries set up by the Denver Rescue Mission, is geared specifically toward men. Every night they house up to 300 men and offer 3 meals daily - serving over 1,000 meals every day. They also offer free medical, dental, optical and chiropractic care. Chapel services are hosted nightly and are led by volunteer speakers and musicians. In addition, The Lawrence Shelter is an entry point for DRM's rehabilitation program called New Life. Men who are committed to positive change are placed into a probationary period before they are entered into the New Life Program. During their probationary period they are assigned a position within the shelter, ranging from security to directing chapel services. We met one of these men who told us he worked 12 hour days, waking up at 4 or 5am to begin his tasks for the day.
We arrived at the shelter early and were greeted at the door by James, a New Life candidate in charge of the chapel services. He led us to the Chapel to set up only to find that we were actually supposed to be playing downstairs in the cafeteria for dinner. However the person who was supposed to speak for chapel never showed up so they asked us if we would be willing to play for the Chapel time instead. The mishap must have been God ordained because it ended up being the most powerful show we've ever put on. Playing at bars and coffee shops we grow accustomed to being background noise. A few people will gather in close and pay attention, but for the most part we set the mood for others to socialize. At the Chapel service however, the men gathered in and hung on every word. It was humbling and beautiful. Men of every color and every age, listening intently, seeking a word of hope. The Holy Spirit was very present throughout and it seemed He managed to bring greater meaning to our music that ever before. Bag of Bones encouraged the men that "there's still time, your old bag of bones can learn to fly. there's still time, your old bag of bones wasn't born just to die." Save Me reminded them that it is through sorrow and suffering that we grow and are sanctified. God goes with us, he loves pursues us, even in the Belly of a Whale. Every song offered a chance to bring a word of encouragement. Each testimony was greeted with an "amen" or applause. After Blood and Wine, written as a desperate cry for God, I asked the men if we could pray. The men responded with a resounding and enthusiastic yes and we went into a time of prayer. We ended the set with a couple upbeat tunes, the first beingTumbleweed. We encouraged the men to sink their roots down deep, draw life from the everlasting waters of God lest they become rootless, aimless, brittle - like a tumbleweed.
Jeremiah 17: 7-8
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,
whose confidence is in him.
They will be like a tree planted by the water
that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes;
its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought
and never fails to bear fruit.”
Tumbleweed had the men clapping and singing along and even brought one man (by the name of Durango Kidd) to his feet to dance. To give you a mental picture… Durango was an easy 75 years old - tall and thin with white hair and a long beard. He wore thick bifocal glasses, two pairs of jeans and a book stuffed into his waistband. He had a bright green sweatshirt, a cowboy hat over the hood, and a mexican poncho and danced "the cowboy" while the rest of the men cheered him on. Talk about the Joy of the Lord. We finished out with Ring of Fire, telling them that God's love is a burning flame that many waters cannot quench. It was truly the most significant show we've ever had. Afterward we were able to socialize with the men. We met Durango who started all his conversations by asking your birthday. After which he informed you of your astrology sign. Apparently Corey is an Aries and a natural born leader ;) We met Bill - a very sincere man who was deeply moved by our music. As well as Eddie who commented - I'm just chipping away… chipping away at a brick wall - one piece at a time. One of these days I'm gong to break through and see the light." Austin approached us to say that he really liked what we had to say. We could tell there was something going on under the surface as his eyes started to tear up. We asked if there was something we could pray for and he said "my life.. I mean my whole life has been sh***y." We prayed with him as well as Anthony - a young man with a loving spirit. We came to find he was a drummer who had gotten caught up in drugs and now hasn't seen his nine year old son for over a year and a half. "I'm walking in obedience to the Lord though… I prayed that I would find fellowship tonight and I met you guys." After we prayed for him, he prayed for us in return - asking that the Lord unify us as a couple and go with us on the road. We were totally blessed by him. After Chapel we went downstairs and ate dinner with the men. We met several more guys, some musicians, some passionate music lovers. We overheard Durango asking for more birthdays. It was a great time of fellowship.
I think its safe to say it was the best show experience we've ever had. Feeling the Lord present in our music, ministering to the men and being used by God gave us the confirmation that we are exactly where God intended us to be. We certainly had times of doubt as we prepared for this tour. We came across so many obstacles we started to wonder if we were really supposed to be doing this. Fear has a way of taking hold and preventing us from walking in the way of God. God's way is not always easy and it doesn't always make sense. At times it seems down right crazy. Its tempting to do the "safe" thing. The comfortable thing. But if we take the leap of faith, if we choose to walk in obedience - He reveals more and more of himself. And the richness of His blessing is far greater than our fears. If only we are willing silence our fears and choose the risky thing…
The Lord continued to confirm His plan for us on Wednesday when we took an impromptu trip into Estes Park to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. Despite the freezing temperatures and driving winds up to 28mph, we drove almost 2 hours to the park, an incredible drive through the valley into the Rockies. We hiked up the mountain to Nymph Lake and down to Alberta Falls, bundled up tight against the cold but enjoying the breathtaking views. Then we headed into town to wander through the shops of Elkhorn Avenue. Just as we were hustling back to the car to head home, we caught glimpse of a giant sign that said COFFEE. "Babe - we are going there." Corey led us up a side street, through a winding courtyard to Caffe Collage. Grateful to be out of the cold, we entered a cozy coffee house decked out with comfy couches and decoupage tables. We were greeted by a young barista who shuffled across the room to put away her mandolin. Of course the folk instrument caught our eye so we struck up a conversation… Came to find that the girl, Rachel was part of a family band and that she was in fact the owner of the coffee shop - at the age of 21. Surprised that she would own a business at such a young age we asked her how it came to be - "Oh its all God. I wouldn't be here without him." She continued to share with us her story - and we shared ours. She asked us to play some music, offering her guitar. So we played a song and she played one in return - a beautiful rendition of the old hymn Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus… She played an old upright piano that was gifted to her by a friend. "Everything in this shop was a gift from God, donated in some way…" Being the only ones in the cafe, save for Rachel's 10 year old sister Tahlia, we felt as though we were visiting an old friend. With a true gift for hospitality, Rachel made us feel right at home, visiting with us long after closing time. She sent us off with a bag of fresh ground coffee "on the house" and an open invitation to come back and play a show anytime.
As we left we had a profound sense of peace….realizing that the Lord truly has a plan and a purpose for this tour. We have made our plans, but the Lord is directing our steps. He has orchestrated not only our shows… but also the people we will meet - even those seemingly by chance… on last minute trips into the mountains…. And it is through His people that He reveals Himself… through the Body of Christ, the Church, that bears His image. We discover more and more of God's grace, power and beauty in the people we meet along the road. As they share their stories with us we see His work in them and it furthers our faith and trust in Him. We begin to understand the depth of His love - the fullness of His work. In every city we play, every town we pass, each person the crosses before us - He is there. Present and working. Pretty overwhelming when you try to grasp it. But we are blessed by the opportunity to discover even the smallest portion of His work and we eagerly await all that stands before us. Planned and unplanned.
On Monday we were booked to play at the Denver Rescue Mission's Lawrence Street Shelter in downtown Denver. The Lawrence Street Shelter, one of many ministries set up by the Denver Rescue Mission, is geared specifically toward men. Every night they house up to 300 men and offer 3 meals daily - serving over 1,000 meals every day. They also offer free medical, dental, optical and chiropractic care. Chapel services are hosted nightly and are led by volunteer speakers and musicians. In addition, The Lawrence Shelter is an entry point for DRM's rehabilitation program called New Life. Men who are committed to positive change are placed into a probationary period before they are entered into the New Life Program. During their probationary period they are assigned a position within the shelter, ranging from security to directing chapel services. We met one of these men who told us he worked 12 hour days, waking up at 4 or 5am to begin his tasks for the day.
We arrived at the shelter early and were greeted at the door by James, a New Life candidate in charge of the chapel services. He led us to the Chapel to set up only to find that we were actually supposed to be playing downstairs in the cafeteria for dinner. However the person who was supposed to speak for chapel never showed up so they asked us if we would be willing to play for the Chapel time instead. The mishap must have been God ordained because it ended up being the most powerful show we've ever put on. Playing at bars and coffee shops we grow accustomed to being background noise. A few people will gather in close and pay attention, but for the most part we set the mood for others to socialize. At the Chapel service however, the men gathered in and hung on every word. It was humbling and beautiful. Men of every color and every age, listening intently, seeking a word of hope. The Holy Spirit was very present throughout and it seemed He managed to bring greater meaning to our music that ever before. Bag of Bones encouraged the men that "there's still time, your old bag of bones can learn to fly. there's still time, your old bag of bones wasn't born just to die." Save Me reminded them that it is through sorrow and suffering that we grow and are sanctified. God goes with us, he loves pursues us, even in the Belly of a Whale. Every song offered a chance to bring a word of encouragement. Each testimony was greeted with an "amen" or applause. After Blood and Wine, written as a desperate cry for God, I asked the men if we could pray. The men responded with a resounding and enthusiastic yes and we went into a time of prayer. We ended the set with a couple upbeat tunes, the first beingTumbleweed. We encouraged the men to sink their roots down deep, draw life from the everlasting waters of God lest they become rootless, aimless, brittle - like a tumbleweed.
Jeremiah 17: 7-8
“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord,
whose confidence is in him.
They will be like a tree planted by the water
that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes;
its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought
and never fails to bear fruit.”
Tumbleweed had the men clapping and singing along and even brought one man (by the name of Durango Kidd) to his feet to dance. To give you a mental picture… Durango was an easy 75 years old - tall and thin with white hair and a long beard. He wore thick bifocal glasses, two pairs of jeans and a book stuffed into his waistband. He had a bright green sweatshirt, a cowboy hat over the hood, and a mexican poncho and danced "the cowboy" while the rest of the men cheered him on. Talk about the Joy of the Lord. We finished out with Ring of Fire, telling them that God's love is a burning flame that many waters cannot quench. It was truly the most significant show we've ever had. Afterward we were able to socialize with the men. We met Durango who started all his conversations by asking your birthday. After which he informed you of your astrology sign. Apparently Corey is an Aries and a natural born leader ;) We met Bill - a very sincere man who was deeply moved by our music. As well as Eddie who commented - I'm just chipping away… chipping away at a brick wall - one piece at a time. One of these days I'm gong to break through and see the light." Austin approached us to say that he really liked what we had to say. We could tell there was something going on under the surface as his eyes started to tear up. We asked if there was something we could pray for and he said "my life.. I mean my whole life has been sh***y." We prayed with him as well as Anthony - a young man with a loving spirit. We came to find he was a drummer who had gotten caught up in drugs and now hasn't seen his nine year old son for over a year and a half. "I'm walking in obedience to the Lord though… I prayed that I would find fellowship tonight and I met you guys." After we prayed for him, he prayed for us in return - asking that the Lord unify us as a couple and go with us on the road. We were totally blessed by him. After Chapel we went downstairs and ate dinner with the men. We met several more guys, some musicians, some passionate music lovers. We overheard Durango asking for more birthdays. It was a great time of fellowship.
I think its safe to say it was the best show experience we've ever had. Feeling the Lord present in our music, ministering to the men and being used by God gave us the confirmation that we are exactly where God intended us to be. We certainly had times of doubt as we prepared for this tour. We came across so many obstacles we started to wonder if we were really supposed to be doing this. Fear has a way of taking hold and preventing us from walking in the way of God. God's way is not always easy and it doesn't always make sense. At times it seems down right crazy. Its tempting to do the "safe" thing. The comfortable thing. But if we take the leap of faith, if we choose to walk in obedience - He reveals more and more of himself. And the richness of His blessing is far greater than our fears. If only we are willing silence our fears and choose the risky thing…
The Lord continued to confirm His plan for us on Wednesday when we took an impromptu trip into Estes Park to visit Rocky Mountain National Park. Despite the freezing temperatures and driving winds up to 28mph, we drove almost 2 hours to the park, an incredible drive through the valley into the Rockies. We hiked up the mountain to Nymph Lake and down to Alberta Falls, bundled up tight against the cold but enjoying the breathtaking views. Then we headed into town to wander through the shops of Elkhorn Avenue. Just as we were hustling back to the car to head home, we caught glimpse of a giant sign that said COFFEE. "Babe - we are going there." Corey led us up a side street, through a winding courtyard to Caffe Collage. Grateful to be out of the cold, we entered a cozy coffee house decked out with comfy couches and decoupage tables. We were greeted by a young barista who shuffled across the room to put away her mandolin. Of course the folk instrument caught our eye so we struck up a conversation… Came to find that the girl, Rachel was part of a family band and that she was in fact the owner of the coffee shop - at the age of 21. Surprised that she would own a business at such a young age we asked her how it came to be - "Oh its all God. I wouldn't be here without him." She continued to share with us her story - and we shared ours. She asked us to play some music, offering her guitar. So we played a song and she played one in return - a beautiful rendition of the old hymn Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus… She played an old upright piano that was gifted to her by a friend. "Everything in this shop was a gift from God, donated in some way…" Being the only ones in the cafe, save for Rachel's 10 year old sister Tahlia, we felt as though we were visiting an old friend. With a true gift for hospitality, Rachel made us feel right at home, visiting with us long after closing time. She sent us off with a bag of fresh ground coffee "on the house" and an open invitation to come back and play a show anytime.
As we left we had a profound sense of peace….realizing that the Lord truly has a plan and a purpose for this tour. We have made our plans, but the Lord is directing our steps. He has orchestrated not only our shows… but also the people we will meet - even those seemingly by chance… on last minute trips into the mountains…. And it is through His people that He reveals Himself… through the Body of Christ, the Church, that bears His image. We discover more and more of God's grace, power and beauty in the people we meet along the road. As they share their stories with us we see His work in them and it furthers our faith and trust in Him. We begin to understand the depth of His love - the fullness of His work. In every city we play, every town we pass, each person the crosses before us - He is there. Present and working. Pretty overwhelming when you try to grasp it. But we are blessed by the opportunity to discover even the smallest portion of His work and we eagerly await all that stands before us. Planned and unplanned.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Honeymoon Tour - Lincoln, NE
Good morning friends. Up and at 'em early today after an eye opening experience last night. Yesterday we drove through SD, IA and NE to get to the People City Mission of Lincoln. The PCM is an incredible resource for homeless and impoverished in the Lincoln area. The facility offers housing and aid to a wide range of cliental. They have housing available for families, single moms and single women in their Family Shelter. These folks are set up with case workers helping them to find jobs, cars and permanent housing. PCM also has transitional housing for men and women with programs to assist in Spritual, Educational, Recovery or Vocational restoration. The men and women in the transitional program pay rent to stay there and attend classes daily. The Emergency Services center provides overnight housing for families and individuals in crisis situations and the Free Clinic offers medical care via volunteer doctors and nurses. In addition, they provide 3 meals a day, everyday, clean sheets, towels, and amenities. `PCM is a faith based ministry that is privately owned an operated. All funding is provided by donors. Between the funders, staff, and clients it is said that over 50% of Lincoln's population has been involved in the People City Mission in some way.
We had the privilege of playing for the residents during their meal time and spending the night at the facility. We were greeted the door by a bubbly case worker named Katie. Her rapport with the residents was remarkable. She carried a smile everywhere she went, sharing a little joy with those she passed. Among those on staff were former residents, recovered addicts, social workers, a worship leader from the International House of Prayer. It was a beautiful array of folks who loved the Lord sharing hope and healing with people in need.
Throughout the night we met several residents who shared with us a little of their story. Michael was excited to have us there explaining that he gave His life to the Lord after a similar music group came to play. Marilyn - a sweet elderly woman requested we play one of her cousin's songs - Virginia Patterson Hensley aka - the great Patsy Cline. We ate dinner with a woman named Daphne who just moved to Lincoln from non other than Memphis, TN. Small world. And Keith informed me that he built the computer that runs the hubble telescope... The accuracy of that claim is yet to be determined :)
Our music was well received and the residents were warm and gracious. We felt like guests being welcomed into the family. On several occasions we were approached by folks who wanted to thank us for coming. They were so encouraging and it totally blessed us. Funny how that happens... you set out to minister and find yourself being ministered to.
That night we slept in a small apartment in the family shelter. It came complete with twin bunk beds, a small living room with a Lazy-boy and a bathroom. With so many folks under one roof hot water was non-existent, so we took cold showers in the morning and said our goodbyes. Rested and content we reflected on our night as we headed west. Next stop - Denver, CO.
We had the privilege of playing for the residents during their meal time and spending the night at the facility. We were greeted the door by a bubbly case worker named Katie. Her rapport with the residents was remarkable. She carried a smile everywhere she went, sharing a little joy with those she passed. Among those on staff were former residents, recovered addicts, social workers, a worship leader from the International House of Prayer. It was a beautiful array of folks who loved the Lord sharing hope and healing with people in need.
Throughout the night we met several residents who shared with us a little of their story. Michael was excited to have us there explaining that he gave His life to the Lord after a similar music group came to play. Marilyn - a sweet elderly woman requested we play one of her cousin's songs - Virginia Patterson Hensley aka - the great Patsy Cline. We ate dinner with a woman named Daphne who just moved to Lincoln from non other than Memphis, TN. Small world. And Keith informed me that he built the computer that runs the hubble telescope... The accuracy of that claim is yet to be determined :)
Our music was well received and the residents were warm and gracious. We felt like guests being welcomed into the family. On several occasions we were approached by folks who wanted to thank us for coming. They were so encouraging and it totally blessed us. Funny how that happens... you set out to minister and find yourself being ministered to.
That night we slept in a small apartment in the family shelter. It came complete with twin bunk beds, a small living room with a Lazy-boy and a bathroom. With so many folks under one roof hot water was non-existent, so we took cold showers in the morning and said our goodbyes. Rested and content we reflected on our night as we headed west. Next stop - Denver, CO.
Honeymoon Tour - Souix Falls, SD
On September 9th. I married my best friend and the best man I know. The long awaited day couldn't have been more beautiful. Under an oak tree, with my dearest friends and family gathered around us, I committed my life to my husband.
"Where you go I will go, Where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die and there i will be buried. May the Lord deal with me if even death separates you form me."
Together we are embarking on an adventure together. As many of you know - we've committed the first season of our marriage to traveling the country, sharing our music and testimony. For the next 40 days we'll be playing at churches, coffee shops, homeless shelters and bars west of the Mississippi. It is our desire to pour out our lives as a sacrifice to the Lord and pour Christ's love on those that cross our path. In the meantime we'll be listening for His voice to guide us into the next season of our lives. We invite you to join us on our journey west.
We started our tour yesterday after a frenzied 48 hours of packing and preparation. We flew into MN from Maryland on Wednesday afternoon and left Friday afternoon for our first destination - Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Go big or go home. Our mode of transport: my parents Honda Odyssey, packed to the brim with our sound system, our camping gear and a custom built loft created by my amazing husband (so we have a place to lay our heads on night we don't have a host home). Taking care of me from the start :) It didn't take long for our loft bed to get put to use. Bogged down by a nasty cold I crawled into the back approximately 30 minutes into the drive. Slept like a champ.
Driving through south-western Minnesota proved easy enough, straight and flat. As Corey put it - With the cruise control on I really don't have to do much. We stopped by our host home before the show - located down a long dirt road and surrounded by corn fields. We were greeted by the lovely and amazing Bruce and Joyce Olsen with daughter and grandkids in tow. They fed us a feast of comfort food; a good ole-fashioned midwestern roast - complete with veggies from the garden and the beef from a family farm. It was nice to start off the tour with some familiar faces. (Bruce and Joyce are parents to two of our closest friends - The infamous Carolina Story). On the road you realize you have family everywhere, people willing to share their home and stories with you. Makes the world feel a lot smaller. And a lot sweeter too.
We then headed out to find our venue, a recently renovated bar right on the train tracks in downtown Sioux Falls, called Latitude 44. It was a beautiful place - cozy and warm and run by Cyndy, the sweetest bar mama I've ever met. 62 years young with a penchant for calling her patrons "hon" and passing out as many hugs as drinks. "We're a family here," she said. "Yea this place is like a warm hug" added a faithful patron by the name of Dave.
We shared the stage with two other acts. Hello Signal and Weliveinsodhouses. A great group of people who welcomed us in with open arms - literally. Hugs all around. One man band Hello Signal opened the show, followed by Weliveinsodhouses a 5 piece indie rock band led by husband and wife team Dustin and Rachel - Dustin on guitar and vocals, Rachel on drums. Ironic right? We had a great time talking with the fellow husband and wife duo. Came to find that the couple - who we assumed we younger than us by their appearance and enthusiasm, were actually 10 years older than us, with a 6 year old boy, an organic crop farm and 2 thousand hogs. It was inspiring to see a couple 10 years ahead of us with a successful business and growing family who are still pursuing music with a passion. They've even developed their own music festival. Every year on the 4th of July they host a festival with 10+ bands playing in their back yard. They don't charge admission - they just do it because they love it. "We have to limit the number of kids who come though - last year there were 30 of them running around like a pack of ferrel children - wanting to light off fireworks and blow things up… It just gets to be an insurance issue…"
All in all I'd say our first show of the tour was a success. Despite a raging cold draggin both of us down, we sang the best we could. In a bar room in south dakota, we brought the name of Jesus to a family of folks just looking for a good time and a place to belong. As people settled in to watch us, I became very aware of every mention of His name. Its my prayer that the Lord was able to speak through our music, calling his people home - where their hearts truly belong. At the very least we offered them the good time they were looking for as people clapped and sang along late into the night.
After the show we spent a good deal of time talking and hanging out with the folks there, leaving the bar well after 1am. We headed back to our host home, loaded up on homeopathic drugs to fight off our colds - I swear we could open up shop as a mobile hospital - and hit the hay. After a few short hours of sleep we were fed a heaping breakfast by the oh-so gracious Olsen family and headed out for Lincoln, NE. Our next stop - People City Mission.
"Where you go I will go, Where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Where you die I will die and there i will be buried. May the Lord deal with me if even death separates you form me."
Together we are embarking on an adventure together. As many of you know - we've committed the first season of our marriage to traveling the country, sharing our music and testimony. For the next 40 days we'll be playing at churches, coffee shops, homeless shelters and bars west of the Mississippi. It is our desire to pour out our lives as a sacrifice to the Lord and pour Christ's love on those that cross our path. In the meantime we'll be listening for His voice to guide us into the next season of our lives. We invite you to join us on our journey west.
We started our tour yesterday after a frenzied 48 hours of packing and preparation. We flew into MN from Maryland on Wednesday afternoon and left Friday afternoon for our first destination - Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Go big or go home. Our mode of transport: my parents Honda Odyssey, packed to the brim with our sound system, our camping gear and a custom built loft created by my amazing husband (so we have a place to lay our heads on night we don't have a host home). Taking care of me from the start :) It didn't take long for our loft bed to get put to use. Bogged down by a nasty cold I crawled into the back approximately 30 minutes into the drive. Slept like a champ.
Driving through south-western Minnesota proved easy enough, straight and flat. As Corey put it - With the cruise control on I really don't have to do much. We stopped by our host home before the show - located down a long dirt road and surrounded by corn fields. We were greeted by the lovely and amazing Bruce and Joyce Olsen with daughter and grandkids in tow. They fed us a feast of comfort food; a good ole-fashioned midwestern roast - complete with veggies from the garden and the beef from a family farm. It was nice to start off the tour with some familiar faces. (Bruce and Joyce are parents to two of our closest friends - The infamous Carolina Story). On the road you realize you have family everywhere, people willing to share their home and stories with you. Makes the world feel a lot smaller. And a lot sweeter too.
We then headed out to find our venue, a recently renovated bar right on the train tracks in downtown Sioux Falls, called Latitude 44. It was a beautiful place - cozy and warm and run by Cyndy, the sweetest bar mama I've ever met. 62 years young with a penchant for calling her patrons "hon" and passing out as many hugs as drinks. "We're a family here," she said. "Yea this place is like a warm hug" added a faithful patron by the name of Dave.
We shared the stage with two other acts. Hello Signal and Weliveinsodhouses. A great group of people who welcomed us in with open arms - literally. Hugs all around. One man band Hello Signal opened the show, followed by Weliveinsodhouses a 5 piece indie rock band led by husband and wife team Dustin and Rachel - Dustin on guitar and vocals, Rachel on drums. Ironic right? We had a great time talking with the fellow husband and wife duo. Came to find that the couple - who we assumed we younger than us by their appearance and enthusiasm, were actually 10 years older than us, with a 6 year old boy, an organic crop farm and 2 thousand hogs. It was inspiring to see a couple 10 years ahead of us with a successful business and growing family who are still pursuing music with a passion. They've even developed their own music festival. Every year on the 4th of July they host a festival with 10+ bands playing in their back yard. They don't charge admission - they just do it because they love it. "We have to limit the number of kids who come though - last year there were 30 of them running around like a pack of ferrel children - wanting to light off fireworks and blow things up… It just gets to be an insurance issue…"
All in all I'd say our first show of the tour was a success. Despite a raging cold draggin both of us down, we sang the best we could. In a bar room in south dakota, we brought the name of Jesus to a family of folks just looking for a good time and a place to belong. As people settled in to watch us, I became very aware of every mention of His name. Its my prayer that the Lord was able to speak through our music, calling his people home - where their hearts truly belong. At the very least we offered them the good time they were looking for as people clapped and sang along late into the night.
After the show we spent a good deal of time talking and hanging out with the folks there, leaving the bar well after 1am. We headed back to our host home, loaded up on homeopathic drugs to fight off our colds - I swear we could open up shop as a mobile hospital - and hit the hay. After a few short hours of sleep we were fed a heaping breakfast by the oh-so gracious Olsen family and headed out for Lincoln, NE. Our next stop - People City Mission.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)