To all my friends following my ramblings...

Many of you received an email from me or have read my past blog outlining a project which would teach photography to students during my short stay in Uganda. After talking with the local missionaries, they feel, and I agree, that the timing is not right for such a project as previously described.

My heart is broke only because of the foothold the enemy has on so many African lives. Pray for Light. Jesus will win.

So where from here?

Look at my thoughts spins from other active organizations such as Cameras for healing and Kids with cameras - Zambia. However, it's purpose, as stated, is not only about photos, social awareness or learning a trade... It's life in Christ.

In him (Jesus) was life, and that life was the light of men.

Giving children the chance to share where they see God working in the world and in the lives around them through the lens.

Right now I'm trying to re-work some "holes" in this project. Unrealistic ideas and tasks need to be visited. A sensitivity for culture needs to be in place and last but not least, financing.

Currently, I am working with a few other potential groups for 2008:
Portland, Central Washington and kids from the Navajo reservation in Arizona.

If you would like to volunteer your skill or if you know of a community that could be blessed by this project, please feel free to contact me.

peace.
johno~

Well, after my last post, which I know has been a while, I thought it would be nice to get things back on the road with a story and pictures from special treat the Thomas family took tonight. Believe it or not, Todd Agnew and Rush of Fools were here in Wenatchee. So I picked up some tickets for a chance to relive my youthful concert days. However, this was a little bit different concert than the ones I use to go to as a teen.

Rush of Fools are a group of kids who have some great talent to start with. I expect to see more of them in the future.

Todd Agnew was great. With the place to ourselves we had a great talk... I will add more on him later. Hint. Hint.

So here are a few pics of the Thomas kids at the end of their night


Rush of Fools and the Thomas kids


Todd Agnew and the Thomas kids

It was a wonderful family evening.

peace.
Johno~

I'm not sure about the rest of the world, but... This summer has flown by. Most of the summers past I've been able to spend some time taking the kids to the park, swimming in the back or just chasing them around taking their pictures. It's August and it's cold. Today might break 90... the day we schedule dentist appointment at 3 PM for all the kiddos. Bummer.

Anyhow, I pulled out my camera and chased them all down. CLICK-A-TY, CLICK, CLICK.


Adam before his haircut


and after his haircut


Caleb was the hardest to pin down... can you tell?


Miriam always loves to pose for me... my little model.


Hannah... well, she's twelve and just thinks I'm a nut. Funny, she's just like me in so many ways. Look out world.

I love being a Papa. These are my gems. They are my life. I love each of them very much.

peace.
johno~

I was just thinking about nicknames... I've had mine since high school... (Johno) Anyone else have a nickname that's lasted as long as mine? 20 years?

I think I received mine by default by hanging out with a guy named Dean... We called him Deano. Together Deano and I had a DJ group with two other high school friends, Darryl and Jeff. Darrylo and Jeffo didn't really click, but Deano and Johno somehow did. I kind of wish it had more of a story. Something with flair.

So, when do you out grow them? Is it OK if you want to keep it? Would it be bad to have it on your tombstone?

Anyhow, I was just curious about others who have nicknames... What's yours and how did you get it?

btw, my wife doesn't call me johno, she calls me JT, and when I'm in trouble she calls me Johnathan Matthew.

peace.
johno~

I, sometimes, get behind on good "youtube" videos. (I just wish I had the time) I'm sure many of you have seen this one already. It's just fitting for me as our church is moving forward with some innovative ideas. Thank goodness for the "Help Desk."



Hope you enjoy.
peace.
johno~