My girls & me

My favorite thing to do on Wednesday nights is hang with my girls at Route 56. Even if I’ve had a less-than-pleasing day at work, I can’t help but feel relieved when they come running for a welcome hug—like six days without seeing each other was way too long. I admire how they wear their hearts on their sleeves.

This past Sunday the girls, two parent volunteers, and I served at Kids Fest, a place where kids come to play games and see stars like Batman, Spiderman, and Veggie Tales. The profit from ticket tales goes to Children and Families of Iowa. Our group was in charge of a hand print art project, face painting, bingo, and paper airplanes.

Concert: Joy Williams

Last Sunday Joy Williams played a living-room concert at Valley. I hadn't heard of her before the concert, but I Kristin and I checked it out anyway. I'm so glad I went.

After a five-year rest from a career that started quite early, Joy is ready to rock her talent with honest and refreshing lyrics. Listening to her live is like a gift. She has a calming, humble, and joyful presence. (You could say I have a bit of a girl crush.) But seriously, check her out.

Joy Williams on MySpace

Hide (song in video)
To anyone who hides behind a smile
To anyone who holds their pain inside
To anyone who thinks they're not good enough
To anyone who feels unworthy of love
To anyone who ever closed the door
Closed their eyes and locked themselves away

You don't have to hide
You don't have to hide anymore
You don't have to face this on your own
You don't have to hide anymore

So come out, come out, come out wherever you are
To anyone who's tryin' to cover up their scars
To anyone who's ever made a big mistake
We've all been there, so don't be ashamed
Come out, come out and join the rest of us
You've been alone for way too long

And if you feel like no one understands
Come to the One with scars on His hands
'Cause He knows where you are, where you've been
His scars will heal you if you let Him