Being There

Went to KU last night.

It was part of an annual pilgrimage to visit the foundation of the game of basketball. Kansas started it, sustains it, and may just take it to the top...again.

Honestly, they didn't look like the number one team in the nation last night. It was still fun to be there with AJ and thousands of the Jayhawk faithful to cheer them on and enjoy the experience.

It's always good to be back home in Allen. Everyone needs to experience it at least once...once a year that is.

Old Habits are in for New Year

Every time the New Year rolls around we all have a tendency to think about new goals, new diets, new workouts, and new disciplines. It’s part of the post holiday recovery process. We think about doing something new that we should have been doing all along.

As I was studying the Gospel of Matthew today, it was good to take a peek at Joseph’s life. He was the type of guy that didn’t need a New Year to jump start his follow through. He had a habit of not waiting to do the right thing when God prompted.

We don’t hear much about him. He doesn’t get the press that Mary does when it comes to all of the Christmas story stuff. But he plays an important role in the ushering in of our King. He follows through every time he is instructed.

Listen to this: “And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him…” Matthew 1:24
“So Joseph got up and took the Child and His mother while it was still night and left for Egypt…” Matthew 2:14
“So Joseph got up, took the Child and His mother, and came into the land of Israel.” Matthew 2:21

How about that for follow through? An angel would show up with a message or he would have a dream with God speaking and without hesitation, he is taking action. Without his immediate obedience, we might not celebrate Christmas the way we do today.

So how is your follow through when God grabs your attention? Do you jump up and go for it, or do you put it off for a little later or the next day? If Joseph had delayed, Jesus could have been executed via Herod’s command along with all of the other young babies in that region. I am so thankful for that he did follow through…immediately.

How about this year, resolving to act immediately in response to God’s instruction in your life. You read it in His Word, you follow through on it. You get convicted and need to ask forgiveness, go do it…immediately. You see someone who needs your help, lend a hand. When parents or a boss ask you to do something, get it done…as soon as they ask.

We don’t need to a new year to remind us to follow through, we need only to look at Joseph and follow his example of obedience. He stopped long enough to listen and then respond.

That’s where I want to be every day.

Wandering from the Wonderful

If you haven’t sat down to watch a quality movie in a while, grab “It’s a Wonderful life” and prepare to be challenged.

Every year, part of our Christmas traditions includes a Christmas eve church service, followed up by some Chinese food (don’t ask how that all got started), and then pulling up in front of the fireplace while we watch “It’s a Wonderful life.”

Jimmy Stewart’s performance as George Bailey coupled with the world’s best movie plot somehow always seems to put it all in perspective for me. After almost three hours of that old black and white film, I climb the stairs and drop into bed, emotional drained.

Maybe it’s because I can identify with Harry Bailey (George’s father). He reminds me so much of my own dad: selfless, giving, others centered, and basically sacrificing his whole life to help a few people in his small town have a better life (the sign on his wall behind his desk reminds me of one of life’s more important principles….You can only take with you that which you give away). So true.

Then again, it might be the miracle of all of George’s friends coming to the rescue at the end of the film after Uncle Billy inadvertently misplaces thousands of dollars. It’s the law of reaping what you sown It’s also the principle of how God uses ordinary people to accomplish modern day miracles. There’s some good theology in this movie.

George was a dreamer. George had plans. More than once, George gave up the rights to what “he was going to do” in order to help others (Humm….where have I heard that one before?).

In the end, he was able to see how significant his life truly was. At times, he thought he hadn’t done much. He wondered about what life could have been had he got outside the city limits of Bedford Falls. He even thought he might be more valuable dead than alive.

As I hit my pillow tonight, I am thankful for the gift of life. I want to make sure that I don’t wander too far from the life that is Wonderful.

Clarence got his wings, George got perspective on his life, and all of his friends had the opportunity to ‘give back” The best part of the film is the final scene where everyone sings, “Hark the Herald Angels Sing.”

God and sinners reconciled….that’s a Wonderful Life.

Party Time

We threw a little party at the Wiebe house last night for all of the Kwest folks who are hangin around Branson. Complete with Christmas trivia, great food, and lot's of fun stuff in a gift exchange, helped us all laugh a lot and have fun.





The big winners of the night had to be the Rapp family. They always seem to do well when it comes to competition. The best part was watching all of their kids get excited about opening lots of gifts and then trading stuff. It was a new concept for them.




It seems like getting engaged was the thing to do this past week. We had lot's of folks start down that road. Travis and Molley have the Kanakuk buidling buzzing while Lauren, McKenna, and Sarah Bishop have kept the K Institute folks all talking. What happened to that January 1 rule?




One side benefit was that it was great to have Jake (our new golden retriver) catch up on some of his socialization skills. He loved being around everyone.


By thw way, Lindsay drew the most interesting reindeer of the evening. It did pay off though. She was rewarded for her art work with extra gifts.

You can't keep a good man down

Everyone has friends.

Some of us are fortunate to have great friends...you know the kind of friendship that is created when you get to do something awesome together or go through a situation that really bonds you together.

Then there are those that have life friendships that span over many years and just can't be explained to others how much you value and appreciate that person.

Allen Befort could probably use a few prayers this week. I know he will mad that I asked, but I'd love it if you could pray for him.

He picked up mono, a busted spleen, a couple of trips to the hospital, and after some time in ICU, he is out and feeling a little better...sort of. Just another typical week for Befort. He seems to always be doing those kind of things.

Pray for him. I know he is a friend to so many of the Kwest gang, and to me.

I'm sure I am way behind communication by now. I know Allen has plenty of followers via his twitter stuff. Regardless, I wanted to let you know that he could use our prayers this week.

Thanks for your friendship to him, and to me.

Kentucky Bluegrass

Kentucky has been a fun week for us.

Being on the campus and home of the legendary Adolph Rupp was really fun for all of us.

The reps did a super job and had our show totally organized and impressed us with some great interviews. After a hard day of work, we capped things off with a little Cane's Chicken. The Wildcats are going to steal a big spot in our Staff Training week photo this year.







We moved onto Asbury College after being in Lexington to hang out with Jordan, Allison, and Amy (our campus reps). It's a quaint little college with some super star people that love the Lord. I enjoyed being there and seeing Kwest staffer Nick Smith. Nick transferred there this year and is playing some soccer and keeping busy with ROTC stuff.









The best part of the trip is when we turned the corner to come home. Dwayne Pano is my hero of the week. He strapped himself into the driver seat, popped an Amp energy drink, and drove all 9 hours while listening to some fun tunes. It was so good to exit off of 65 and get back to the Branson lights.




It was a good week of Movie Tour...The Lord was very faithful.

We Keep Rollin' at Kentucky State

We took our show to Kentucky State tonight and had a wonderful time with staff and interviews. Remi joined our team today and took time to share about ministry opportunities in Memphis for staff that want to pursue a Masters in Urban education. I like Remi. She is a great communicator, very professional, and lots of fun to travel with on tour.










Dwayne is also a part of the team this week. He is always smooth up front and delivers a perfect overview of our summer work with kids at KAA and KUK. I love hangin' out with him. Some of my most fun trails I have ever been on have included him. This week hasn't disappointed us either. We have played ball twice already and hope to jump on at University of Kentucky tomorrow.










Lance is one of our reps at KSU. He is a new found friend that I really enjoyed talking with tonight. I love his smile, passion for the Lord, and his heart for people. Everyone loves being around this guy. It's guys like him that make KAA and kamp such a super place during the summer.






I like Kentucky and I like the people we are spending time with at our movies. What a sweet job.

Movie Time In Kentucky

It's always fun to be on the Movie Tour. No matter what stop you make, it's a fun reunion time for everyone.



We are in Kentucky this week and it's been a blast. Lot's of fun families, kampers, and staff. We started our trek in Louisville. The Lyle's and the Shrout's rolled out the red carpet and made us feel like a million bucks. They did a wonderful job at making the show really fun (like guessing the amount of M&M's in a jar, ice cream stops, and traditional back yard basketball till after 11pm.

The Bird Man Goes Dancing

Weston Wiebe had a break out game at College of the Ozarks last night. In a heated rivalry game with the Evangel Crusaders, it was Weston and his "bird like" defense that helped shut down Evangels hot shooters and put CofO back into the game at the end of regulation.

In overtime, our Kwest Staffer helped score some critical buckets, along with a sweet one hand put back, to lift the Bobcats to an overtime win. We think that his good play might be a result of time spent around Dru Hill this summer, as well as playing in his fantasy NBA league. Some even think that it may have stemmed from learning new dances at Kwest, which he is displaying in the picture above.

Standing "O" for Weston Wiebe, Kwest staffer.

What a Week

Tennessee is just plain pretty. We spent the last week traveling on Movie Tour through a sea of gold and yellow spalshed across the rolling hills of the smokies. It was spectacular to say the least.

When we were in Knoxville, we had the chance to meet Charles Chandler. He owns and opeates Chandler's deli. It is hands down the best soul food in the Volunteer State.
We ate well and enjoyed being in this "hole in the wall place" where, as Charles put it, "both the Who's who and the Who's that?" sit next to each other enjoying the food.






We also had a chance to stop by Tennessee Tech and the Billy George show. Billy is our Campus Rep there and pulls out all of the stops when it comes to hosting the films. He has more kamp tee shirts than Oregon has football uniforms.

We also had wonderful shows at Covenant, Lee (with Caleb Arnold rolling out some red carpet and good hoops), and Carson Newman. I love being on trail, especially when the food is good and the interviews are great

Raising kids with a Purpose

One of the great joys of being a leader here at kamp, is the fact that we get to help impact lives for the Lord. Personally for me, nothing is more exciting than being able to help grow others to live life with a purpose. It's the Great Commission that Jesus spoke of in Matthew 28. We are about the business of making leaders who grab a Kingdom Vision and pass that on to others.

One of my favorite people to ever walk through the gates of Kwest is Adam Barnett. An energetic, all smiles, never stop having fun character and personality, allows him to influence literally thousands of kids and college students in the Norman area as he works with Journey church.

I couldn't help myself after I read a recent blog entry of his on raising kids. He and his wife Andrea, have just been blessed with a new life, adding to their already busy schedule. Here is what he wrote:
Person vs. Purpose
I got an encouraging email from a friend the other day that said she was praying for Andrea and me as we continue to learn about parenting. She said something very profound that has challenged me and consumed me since the moment I read it: "Don't raise a person; raise a purpose." I've thought a lot more about this and here are a few things I've thought of:

Raising a person leads to fear. Raising a purpose promotes boldness and courage.

Raising a person limits creativity. Raising a purpose promotes dreaming wildly.

Raising a person is ownership. Raising a purpose is knowing what belongs to the Lord.

Raising a person creates worry. Raising a purpose is to fully trust the Lord.

Raising a person is to define a future. Raising a purpose allows freedom and choice.

Raising a person is selfish. Raising a purpose is to promote God's desires.

Raising a person is defined. Raising a purpose keeps one open to the Holy Spirit.

Raising a person requires plans. Raising a purpose requires following God's direction.

Raising a person can be done alone. Raising a purpose requires the body of Christ.

Raising a person is stressful. Raising a purpose is to be filled with the joy of the Lord.

Raising a person is boring. Raising a purpose is full of anticipation!

Raising a person can be done with luck. Raising a purpose requires prayer.

Raising a person lacks purpose. Raising a purpose promises a fruitful life!

... So, Lord, help Andrea and I (and those around us who love Ellie) to raise more than just a person, but a daughter with a purpose to shake things up in this world! Amen.


And I say "amen" too!

Home is Always Nice

I believe the best part of traveling with Kanakuk is the part that comes when we get to go back home. There is nothing better than coming off a week of traveling than to roll back into the drive way and see my family.

After traveling in Texas and enjoying one of my best weeks of trail, it was still more exciting to see my family, sit at the dinner table and talk, and kick back on the couch with the fire going.

This past weekend, Mike had 3 scrimmages up in Springfield. My brother came down with his family to see Weston and Mike play. Incidentally, they open their season next weekend in St. Louis. Basketball is here!

Don't get me wrong. College Station and Waco were great this past week. I loved slamming a Freebirds burrito and thoroughly enjoyed some Double Dave's pizza rolls (I even grabbed some Layne's chicken fingers). Traveling was sweet, but it doesn't come close to being at home with my own family and Beth's home cookin...it's always nice.

Klife Waco Style

I vote Allen Befort and Erin Groth the two best Klife leaders of all time. They are possibly not only the best team, but the most perfect fit to be dynamic leaders for kids who come to Klife.

I stopped by the other day for the Kamp Movie Tour and they hosted us at the Klife center. It was fun to see them in action with kids, families, and their staff. They have some good things going right now and it's fun to see the Lord working.

If you are ever near Waco, be sure to stop in and check out their ministry and work with kids (not to mention staff volunteers....I heard a rumor that they have 60 college students that want plug in and help, but again, that's just a rumor).

Baylor and Waco were good to us. We had ton's of interviews despite Pigskin happening. By the way, Andrew Gilbert performed last night on stage, singing and dancing. I can't wait to watch the YouTube video on that one

Aggie Dominance

Let's face it. There are plenty of reasons why I believe A&M may be one of the greatest places on planet earth. Tradition. Valor. Chivalry. And really good people.

After our kamp shows this week, it was fun to catch up on all that's happening on the campus. After Dark and Joe White will show up in College Station soon. Thanks to a great team of people, including Laura Browder, it might just be the best one we have ever had.

We capped off our trip in Aggie Land by running by Layne's Fried Chicken and slamming some chicken fingers. After a Monster Burrito at Freebirds, and some pizza rolls at Double Dave's, I left College station a satisfied man.

Be praying for the After Dark event, and for Laura and her team of folks. They are way fired up and way committed to see people come to the cross. They are dominating the campus for Christ.

Aggies

Aggie time on the KMT.

Last night we were busting at the seams with Aggies who are ready to interview with kamp. It was fun to see a room filled with that much excitement and energy. Our reps did a wonderful job.

It was also fun to see guys like Dave Browning, or as AJ refers to him, Brave. Interestingly, Dave just finished spending time with a former President of the United States, as well as our current President, both in College Station, both at the same time. Dave and his fellow Aggies were being honored for their volunteer work in the city for those who need help. Pretty cool.

The only bad thing about the whole deal was that Dave had to cut his hair...and his beard. Both Luke Finch and Dave are sporting some serious facial hair. You kind of just wish they could have it during the summer.

It's always good to be in Aggie land. Gig Em.

Reunion Time

This weekend we had the chance to rally the staff in Dallas as we prepped for the Texas/OU game. It was an opportunity for the family to be together to catch up and have some fun.

Kwest was well represented, along with all of the rest of the kamps. We fellowshipped, ate some good food, told some great stories, but mostly had the chance just to catch up with each other.

The highlight of the weekend had to have been Todd Rapp's skit. He was in vintage form as he and Shay Robbins performed a sundry of different skits centered around writing next year's summer theme song (see pictures).

We hit the road this week and I will be heading to College Station and Waco, Texas. The KMT is off and running and we are excited to see some people.

tweaker

I don't know why, but lately I have had a tough time keeping up with writing. I desire to be diligent...it just doesn't seem to happen.

It's late and I just got back from Dallas and the Kanakuk reunion. I have a few hours here in Branson before I turn around and head back down to College Station on Monday morning. Life is crazy.

After being with one of my leadership guys, I have decided that my problem with blogging might just be able to be solved by "tweaking" I mean "twitter" or whatever you want to call it.

I will give everyone an update on our reunion and some photos of Todd Rapps greatest work I have seen in over 20 years. He is, without a doubt, one of the most funny humans I have ever seen.

Here's to keeping up with you...
I will tweak you soon.

Out for a Walk

The human body is one of the most amazing machines ever created. We are able to do so many things from climbing mountains to running marathons, and biking 100 miles to graceful slam dunks.

The more science helps us advance the powers of the human body, the more human beings seem to have no limit as to what they can achieve.

However, the one thing that our body was best designed for is walking. God hand crafted the parts of what we are to be able to travel from point A to point B with efficiency and ease. We take for granted the simplicity of what we do every day.

We are made to walk with Him.

No one ever sets out to be a fool or become one on purpose. We take our eyes off of the Lord and make decisions apart from Him. We let go of His hand and take matters into our own hands. That's how we lose step. We don't walk wisely.

So go take a walk today...as you go, make sure you never let go of God's hand. We were created to walk hand in hand with our heavenly Father. It's the most natural thing we can do.

Unto the mountains...

Since kamp has been over, most every morning I have been on my bike. I just need to work out a little of that left over kamp energy before I go to sit in an office for 8hours. It's therapy for sure.

When you ride around here, you always feel like you are going up a hill. It's tough to find a flat spot in the Ozarks. But you know what? I don't mind. Not only is it a good workout, it's always great scenery.

Each morning as I make the turn to head back in to town, I pass a spot in the road where you can see for miles. It's a typical Ozarks mountain view where the greens and the blues just come alive as far as the eye can see.

It's there that I think of Psalm 121 when David says, "I will lift my eyes unto the mountains, for where shall my help come from? My help comes from the Lord..." the Palmist continues, "Who made heaven and earth."

Always Good

It's always good to be in Jayhawk land.

This past weekend I took some time to stop over in Lawrence to give Aj a tour of the KU campus. As a high school sophomore, one of the places he is considering for college is Kansas. After all, he would be in good company.

His time included a tour of the campus, lunch in the Union where he spent some time listening to why it would be good to become a Jayhawk, as well as taking a few minutes to meet and talk to Bill Self. Sweet time in the land of Oz for sure.

We were at the game that night to see some of Todd Reesing and the football team. We ended up hanging out with Weston, Whealon, Leigh, Whitney Bruce, Emily, Stewart, and few other Kwest staff.

It's always good to be in Lawrence...

Taylor Allen lifts Kwest to a new level

One of the hidden blessings of the summer was having Taylor Allen and some of the former K-Klassic staff move to Kwest. Now that Klassic will be hosting urban kids as Kids Across America launches another new kamp, we have the honor of collecting some of their staff to help us out with our kids.

Taylor Allen transferred kamps to become the Kwest Scheduler and Athletic Director. With his administrative and organization gifts, he plopped right into the middle of our crazy schedule and kept us all going in the right direction. He was responsible for all of our daily schedules, kamper awards, and overseeing all the equipment on a day to day basis (as well as running a small group, speaking and teaching, and making sure we didn't miss any of the small details that make the Westside awesome).

He took us to a new level. In Smitty's words, we are definitely "flying higher" since he arrived.

Taylor is in Florida this year helping direct K-Life kids to a deeper walk with the Lord. His TCU degree and his excellent skills in tennis, hoops, and soccer made him an instant favorite with our staff and kids. We know he is taking his K-Life to the next level too.

We like Taylor a lot. Now that he has Kwest all figured out, we can't wait to see how high we fly next year.

Instant Memories

On the way to Colorado last week, my son was bored and decided to take some pictures as we jetted down the Interstate in our suburban. I handed him back my camera and he started to have some fun.

A few minutes later, I heard him say, "Got it!" My natural response was, "Got what?"
He showed me the picture.

He had captured a lighting strike from a Western Kansas thunderstorm. Pretty cool stuff for a 15 year old using my "pink" point and shoot camera.





Aj also took some time to find a way to shoot some pretty cool pictures of the Rocky Mountains. I think he has a knack for good pictures. His eye allowed lots of "got it" moments for us on our vacation this year. He basically made instant memories when he captured these on film.




Hundreds of staff and thousands of kampers from this summer have memories that will be ingrained in their minds forever. The pool is empty and the blob is gone, but the memories will be a vivid as the day they happened as we walk through this winter.

I can't remember a summer where I have finished with as much energy, passion, vision,and excitement for what God did, and will do this year. I thank Him for all the memories that He made happen that will motivate us to love him more this year.

I can't wait for opening day....

Back at it!

Just wanted to let you know that we will be back at it again.

What a summer of fun and life change. I can't wait to fill you in on all that has happened in the Kwest world in the last few weeks (trust me...I have a lot to share with you).

Thanks for following along. I love what we get to do.

Looking for my arrows...

Wow. That's about all that I can say. Double Wow!

What a finish to our 6th term party. Tonight we set sail to a typhoon of a party as we flooded the kdome with several thousand gallons of water and danced the night away.

This night has always been a special one and it didn't disappoint anyone. All the kampers were having a blast as we played some Lecrae, Smitty, and even some "ice cream and cake". It was an awesome night and finish to an awesome day.

We can't wait to see all of the parents tomorrow.

Jack Bauer can't beat this 24

Jack Bauer doesn't have anything on Kwest's Michael Allinson. Michael took a few minutes the other day on his time off to card a 24 under on our Frisbee golf course, which just happens to be a course record.

Nailing 7 hole in one's on his way to sizzling round of disc golf, he has definitely made a spot for himself in the kwest record books.

Congrats to our new champion. I think it may be a long time before this record is broken. Bauer might be able to save the world and the White House from a nuclear attack, but I don't he would ever be able to catch up with Allinson.

Typical is Awesome

Yesterday was a typical day. Now that I think about it, every day here at Kwest seems to be Typical. Not that it all goes perfect, but when you have rose colored glasses on, it's tough not to see how great things are here on Kanakuk hill.

It was also a incredible day! What do I mean by that?

It was a beautiful day of Ozark summer weather (the only place the sky is more blue is in Colorado).

The kampers all had a great day (laughter seems to start before sun comes up and not finish till the last person puts their head on the pillow).

Eternity will now look different because of what occurred at our kamp fires last night (some kids rang the bell signifying that they had given their lives to Christ).

Not to mention kids smiling and conquering home sickness, new friendships forming that I know will last for life, and a few boys creating memories that they will never forget (I taught aqua skipping class and we sank one but had a ton of fun playing on Table Rock Lake).

Yep, it was pretty much a regular 'ol day here at Kwest...which by the way, just happens to Awesome!

I will never stop being amazed at how the Lord continues to bless what we do here. We have a great staff who are yielding their lives to Him, a wonderful leadership team who tirelessly work to make it all excellent, and an owner whose passion for serving the Lord is unmatched by any other man I know.

When "typical" becomes "awesome" there is always danger of getting used to things being so great. That never happens here. God always seems to show up in new and different ways showering us with a never ending flow of His love, grace and mercy.

I am glad that yesterday was another "typical day" here at Kwest. Each summer day that passes just makes me feel it's getting better and better.

I can't believe it's almost over. We have so much to do in so little time...

A song in our Hearts

The Wizard of Oz, the sound of Music, or Disney's Mulan? Today is have a song in your heart day. That's right. Everyone is singing here at Kwest. It's fun, it's light, and it's uplifting.

Each day we have a "theme" for the day which includes a skit at flag. This morning we were singing songs and having loads of fun with the classic Disney songs and old musicals that never go out of style.

We have a picture perfect day weather wise and the kampers are all enjoying a full day of classes tailored to their own personal liking (remember at Kwest all kampers get to select all of their own classes).

Both our one week and two week kampers are having a blast!

Finally Here!

Opening day 6th term. Opening day 11th term. We have been waiting all winter. They have been waiting all winter. It's finally here and boy what a start!

Last night was a picture perfect night at Kwest as the cars and buses rolled in, dropped off kampers and luggage, and we got to start another term of kamp. The weather was perfect, the burgers were the best, and Klife was rocking last night as we kicked off another Dare to Dream time on the grounds of Kwest.

This group looks to be our best of the summer. I am excited to get things going and so are they.

I love kamp.

One Last Say So

It's the end of another term. Short of the final awards ceremony, we can't do anything else to make this term complete.

It's been fun. It's been life changing. It's been almost perfect...too good to be true.

Tonight the kampers have their final time together in the Klife gym. They finish up where they started opening night.

We do say so this night. Say so means that kampers will have the chance to stand up and share what has happened in their lives and hearts. It's their chance to "say so" if they have become a Christian.

I like it. It's a mirror of what has happened over the past days here on Kanakuk hill. It's good to see that God is still at work in so many ways that we don't even see or begin to even understand.

That's just another reason why Kwest is the best place on the planet.

Carter Dance

Todd and Bronwyn's kids are awesome. They are great parents and they have great kids.

The other day Carter broke out in a bumble bee dance with our kitchies that had every laughing. I loved it.

One of the things that Kanakuk is great at is getting excited for making kampers dreams come true. We encourage, build up, support, cheer and rally so other's dreams can come true.

By the way, I love kwest parents. They send us the best kids in the world. I can't wait to see them today at 5pm.

Skit Time

In the world of a safety officer, this might be a ticket. In the world of a special programs director, this is fun.

Each day at the flag we never know what will happen with skits. This morning we had an action packed skit that ended up with a few folks in the pool (and probably a few tickets too).

One of the great things about Kwest is that each day our programs folks dream up ways to make the fun last all through today. It usually starts with a skit at flag to kick off the theme of the day. This morning was no different.

Tonight we are having our Survivor man party. It's similar to a fun version of what you might see on a TV adventure show where someone goes to the wilderness with just his camera crew and then tries to make it throught several days of hiking and camping just living off the land. The kids don't have it that rough tonight, but they will have fun as they navigate things around kamp and do their best to survive the elements.

Ahhh, the spoils of being at kamp.

Breakfast is never really Breakfast with the boys

When the boys side of kamp finally wakes up and hits the dining hall, look out.

This morning breakfast was a little more than a bit "chipper" as the saying goes.
Bumble Bee time was buzzing as we presented the campers their morning awards for excellence in sports effort.

It would appear that our Bee continues to grow in size as the term passes. He has taken many different shapes and forms, and this morning may have shown what could be Kwest's best kept secret: Spencer.

One great thing about being a kamper at Kwest is that nothing is ever boring and nothing is what it appears to be. It's always more fun and always more action packed.

I love the Bumble Bee.

An Evening in the Woods

It was campfire night last night.

Campfire nights are always special here at Kwest. Good things happen. Life changing things happen.

Last night was no different. The bell rang so many times that I stopped counting. Many of our campers became Christians last night. In fact, yesterday lots of kids became Christians, some even at rest period in the middle of the day.

This summer has been a busy but one thing is for sure: God is going to show up and execute His plan. It's really fun to see Him at work, especially with something as simple as a small campfire with a few smores.

We need to do more of those...

Kampfires!

The best night in kamp, hands down, is kampfire night.

Why? Well, because it's fun, it's cool, we make memories, and lot's of hearts are changed.

Tonight we all head out to the woods as individual cabins and have our own kampfires. We will eat well (Leadership just made over 400 hand made sandwiches this morning), we will have some smores, and we will enjoy some really, really nice weather (it will be in the low 80's today and even down into the 50's tonight!).

Our picture above is from flag this morning as the boys were leaving to head to breakfast. Last night we had a super fun western night with 2 steppin', watermelon, and some good ol fashion root beer.

Does life get any better?

Liquid Sunshine

Something strange happened today. It rained.

Not that rain is any special, but it sure seems like it this summer. We just haven't had much. In fact, I can't remember having to cancel any classes for rainy day activities.

At kamp, we have always welcomed rain. Down here in the Ozarks, we call it liquid sunshine. It never stops kamp from having fun.

From the looks of the wet tennis court complex, you would think we are all sitting around in the bunkhouses playing cards waiting for the clouds to disappear. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Right now in the boys gym, Matt Thomas and Nate Sell are heading up the most exciting "Deal or No Deal" that Kwest has ever seen. The boys are shouting, yelling, encouraging, and bargaining to "cut a deal" so they can win something for their cabin, or maybe even for the whole kamp.

On the ladies side of kamp, the "Komos have Talent" as the girls bust out some their wonderful talents in a little friendly competition. Talent shows are hilarious here and EVERY kamper has something to offer to pass along smiles and grins.

Personal Service

One of my favorite things about Kwest is that each kamper gets a little touch of personal service when they walk into the gates.

In the picture above, Lindsay, our girls scheduler, is taking some time to help out Lauren and Carla with changes to their class schedule. When kampers take a step into the Kwest world, one option they have at this kamp that they may not have at others is selection of all of their own classes. It makes things really fun when you get to do what you want to do, and even more fun is that you can match your best friends schedule in most cases. It's a recipe for total fun.

We aim to please at Kwest and give our kids the individual attention they need each day.

By the way, today is another mild day here at kamp. Temperatures are hovering around 80 degrees with a cool breeze.

5th Term is Rollin!

Man is is ever good to have term 5 here.

Tonight was a picture perfect opening for the kampers who have waited such a long time to be here. The weather continues to be fabulous which adds tons of energy to an already over enthusiastic staff! We are excited to have some fun with kids!

Opening night found a challenge for each kamper. Dare to Dream is our theme and we are encouraging the kids who walk through our gates to grab on to some special dreams that God has for them this week.

The middle school years are always a time for choices and deciding who you will become. Kwest and our staff want to help kampers make the right choices that will lead them to a strong foundation this next year at school, as well as the turbulent high school years just around the corner.

It's all good here tonight in Kwest land. We are grateful for another wonderful opening day!

Pirates Everywhere!

Tonight will be the kampers favorite.

We have our Pirate Party complete with a raging sea. That's right. We flood the Kdome with lots of water, set up a 30 ft pirate, trim the sails for our real Black Pearl, and heave ho for a wonderful evening of fun and excitement.

Today our kampers will be searching for gold in kamp, but have to be careful...there are plenty of pirates waiting in the wings to grab it back.

Our kamp loves this day. It's awesome for everyone. Stay tuned for more details.

Term 7 Almost like Heaven

Term 8 is up and going. It's fun to have another new set of kampers in for this next week. I always love the change.

I have to be honest though. Term 7 for us was awesome. We had awesome kids, awesome weather, awesome counselors, and awesome things happening (did I use awesome too much?).

We all had fun, lots of kampers became Christians, and plenty of new friendships were developed that I know will be followed up during the year.

Brent Clarkson decided to show up for a prize visit with his new bride. It was fun to see him back in town. We miss him. The kids miss him. Our staff misses him. It is men like Brent that make this place so much fun.

Rumor has it some blasts from the past will be surfacing in the next few days. Stay tuned.

Sports Center?

Sports center has hit Kwest. Every morning the boys side of kamp wakes up to listen to our local Sports Cast team give their review of the top sports stories from around the world. Trust me...this is something you don't want to miss.

With a blend of humor and whit, a few wild sports related stories from around the globe, notto mention some funky skit clothes, make these few moments of the day among the most memrable of a kwest kampers time here. Its hillarious, energizing, and just plain fun to wake up and listen to Luke and Nate put their spin on wacky as well as legit sports news ala ESPN style.

Hats off to the guys for this mornings fun wake up. Can't wait to hear tomorrow's show.

Trail Dust to a new level

We made history today. We had another first at Kwest. You wouldn't guess it in a million years... unless Todd Rapp would have taken a picture just to prove that it really did happen (see photo).

Hunter Hall, our resident expert pole vaulter and Virgina Tech's best with a top ten finish this year in the NCAA's, took time to help our Western Party go to new heights by vaulting into the swimming pool, landing perfectly, and then polishing off his flag skit by "shooting the bad guys" from the diving board and blob tower when he surfaced with his pole floating behind him.

It never ceases to amaze me how talented people are that work here on our staff. They are fun, energetic, athletic, and certainly committed to take kamp to the next level.

It's not every day you see something like this happen. It was definitely a memory maker for sure. I am proud of Hunter for his creativity. I wish you could have seen it in person.

ChuckWagon and Salvation

KWest Chuckwagon. It's where lots of things happen every day. It is where kamp really becomes kamp.

This morning the guys tackled biscuits and gravy before they launched into their day of classes and fun adventure. You gotta eat to get some fuel for what we do here. The days are very long and loaded with so many things to keep you moving.

The start of this term has brought a new found energy to Kwest. Our second session staff has arrived at just the right time to give us a much needed boost of energy and smiles.

Last night after opening tribal night, we actually had several kampers come and ring the bell (which signifies that they committed their lives to the Lord)! It's unreal how the Lord continues to bless what we do here at Kwest. He is definitely at work and we are humbled by what He continues to do.

Opening day and we are rollin'

There is nothing like opening day at kamp. It has all the fine ingrediants of an instant classic movie: excitement, adventure, unpredicatable fun, and more laughs than even the IMAX big screen could post at one time. I love it.

Our fourth session is off and rollin'. It's a blessing to have new staff, new kids, new energy, and a new day to watch God mold friendships and change hearts.

I guess over my time here at Kanakuk, I have probably touched over a million trunks. Okay, maybe not that many, but I bet it's been a lot. I just hauled another one down to Kuk 5 a few minutes ago. It was fun to get a new kamper moved in and settled down.

Opening day is always fun. I can't wait for tonight when we set the stage for these next few days at kamp. Everyone is a little nervous, but way excited. I can't wait to hear about their dreams and helping make those come true.

KWest opening days are always the best!

Big 4th of July Party

It's always nice to know that whenever you are at Kanakuk, special things happen.
The Fourth of July could certainly be defined as something special for sure.

Bringing a mix of summer time fun and celebration, along with some good 'ol family holiday traditions, the Kwest gang threw a big time party to celebrate our Independence and freedoms we enjoy here in America.

Starting with the best picnic of the summer, Jenica and her team of wonderful cooks worked extra hard to serve up a meal that all of us will remember long after summer is gone. Hot dogs, apple pie, and Chevrolet could define what we experienced...it was all American and all fun.

I have to admit that Jenica's home made apple pie did make me miss Hillsboro, Kansas and my family, but with a scoop of ice cream and some good friends, it felt like we were all with our families.

The night ended with a great concert at K2 along with a full blown fireworks show headed up by the Kwest team. It made for a perfect day.

Oh yeah, we did come back to the Westside and finish it all off with some Red, white, and blue bomb Pops...

Happy Fourth of July!

Cross Talk

What a busy last three days. So many things have happened here at the Westside.
I have much to share.

Friday night we kicked off the fourth of July weekend with our Cross Talk night. This year at Kwest we take time to walk through the gospel as we present events that led up to the Crucifixion via skits and multi media. It always seems to be a memorable night for our staff and the kampers.

Our purpose is to help kamp see how great the love of God is for the world and really how much He did sacrifice for us went He sent His only Son to die for us. It is not a night where we push for any decisions as much as it is an opportunity for all of us to see that we do have a Heavenly Father who cares for us deeper than we can wrap our minds around.

The weather has been so wonderful here. Cross talk night finished up on a warm evening as we sat on the tennis court complex under a back drop of endless stars with a silky moon to top it all off.

I know many hearts will not be the same after this night.

Christmas in July

The Komos always find a way of having outrageous fun here at kwest. Yesterday they took the time to bring a little Christmas cheer to the boys side of kamp when they showed up dressed as rain deer singing some Christmas Carols.

To be honest, I am not sure why they did it, but it sure was fun to watch.

My hats off to Molly and her girls for taking time to make our guys side laugh and enjoy the time here.

By the way, it has been absolutely gorgeous here as far as the weather is concerned. Many of the staff had to use some sweat shirts this morning on their normal morning runs thanks to cloud cover and a little chilly weather. It's awesome!

Everyone is staying healthy and we are having a super time!

7 Day Changeover and Banana Splits

Today was a changeover for our 7 day kampers. It was a great day to honor them.

I have always said that having a 7 day kamper at kwest is a little like "getting to eat half of a banana split." To me, the best part of a 3 dip delicious treat like that is when you get to those last few bites where everything has run together. I love it! I feel like 7 days just isn't long enough to enjoy everything that we have to offer. You don't get to "eat" those best scoops of ice cream and hot fudge all mixed together. There just isn't time.

No worries though. We had plenty of fun, excitement, and adventures in the days we shared here. This past term was a blast and I wish we could do it all over again. In fact, I hope all of our 5th term 7 day kampers can return for a couple of weeks next year.

Until then, we will keep the last few bites on hold for you. Trust me, we can't wait to serve you up some tree tops in 2010!