Uphill idealist

My family is from the "Burgh. Even though my parents moved from the area before I was born, some Pittsburgh-isms moved with us. When we'd go home to visit - the accent, speed and intensity of talking would amp up. I would come home from visits with a sprinkle of "Yins" and "Warsh" peppering my vocabulary - as well as increasing my talk speed by a 25% minimum! Earlier today I came across a Youtube page called "Pittsburgh Dad" - if you are from the "Burgh" - I'm sure you'll appreciate this series. For all my Aunts and Uncles these clips remind me of - thanks for the memories and don't forget to red up the room before your have company over! Yins best check it out - it's a keeper if you as me!

Today is the day I head out of town with 8 students, one other adult leader, tons of luggage, snacks and some butterflies dancing in my stomach. It's been a while since I've gone on a weekend trip with a group of students. I've checked my to do list, my what to bring list and have a 3 ring folder with every person's info, my driving directions,a list of restaurants in the area, and a tax exempt form for good measure. If you think of us this weekend, pray for our safety, fun and opportunity to learn some things about God, ourselves and each other. It will be a great opportunity. Today is Y-Day as we are headed to Youth Quake Encounter in Pittsburgh. Only 3 1/2 hours on the road and we'll be there. Adventure awaits.

Hey just in case you are attending or have some friends that are attending the NYWC in Pittsburgh this weekend they have a communication and planning network up that is really helpful in making connections and working out your schedule for the weekend. Let me know if you'll be there and we can catch up in the 'Burgh! Here's the link to my profile on the YS site: Tara's YS page. Tara

The Youth Specialties Convention is a great event. In fact, I'd say that I'd agree with the "Skit Guys" and concur -"It's like Disney Land for Youth workers!" There is time to learn, meet fellow youth workers, take in a great city, (Pittsburgh ROCKS, but they have the event in Sacramento and Nashville too!) take time to rest, reflect and plan, enter for all sorts of cool drawings in the merchandise area, take a walk through the prayer labyrinth or chapel, take in some concerts or just take a nap.... (sometimes we need that you know!) Three years ago, I attended the event in Pittsburgh PA - and it did provide me with lots of opportunity to learn about what resources are available, but the greatest thing I came back with that event from was an affirmation of my calling to ministry as well as some lessons in how to live in ministry and continue to foster my own faith journey as well. If you have an opportunity and the budget to send your youth people on a...

Ian and I were off the the great 412 to attend the Emergent Pittsburgh Seminar on Monday morning after making sure the house was ready for Mom to come stay with the kiddos. Milk in fridge. Check. Clean sheets and comforters. Check. Dishes done... no check. We had the great opportunity for a leisurely lunch @ The Church Brew Works on the east side of Pittsburgh. They have an unique atmosphere and wonderful food. Mango Cheesecake, homemade cinnamon ice cream, buffalo wings... Union Project is located on the east side of Pittsburgh and that was were Ian Mobsby was speaking on Art in Worship. Ian is from the Moot Community in London England and is touring the States to raise funds for the ministry there. This is a photo of one window at The Open Door's meeting room/sanctuary within the Union Project. We also stopped to visit In the Blood Tattoo and Piercing in the South Hills area called Carson Flats. The studio is partnered with Hot Metal Bridge Faith Community and reaches...