Early Birds

     This morning I heard birds - I think they are robins - singing in my yard.  No big deal for some of you in warmer climates, but for me, this is incredibly life-giving!  I thank God for the promise and hope of Spring.  Every year, in spite of our bleak winters and doubts about whether new life will break through, the birds come back (some of them a little early), and eventually the daffodils will poke up their heads and the terribly brown grass will turn a brilliant green.  I absolutely love Spring...
      I want to urge all of you looking for the best possible deal for the Arts Conference in June to be early birds as well - our deadline with the most optimal rate is March 24.  As you go to the website and weigh all the fabulous options for workshops and experiences, keep in mind that we are offering some tremendous preconference workshops for those who want to be true early birds in your arrival.  Allow me to plug a few of those for your consideration:
Leading from a Healthy Soul:  Caring for your Own Soul While Leading Others, taught by Mindy Caliguire.   Often the most difficult person to lead toward spiritual transformation is the person you see in the mirror!  I know this is true for me.  Mindy is a tremendous facilitator of workshops that help artists and teachers restore the life and vitality we all long to display.  Come away awhile and rest - learn to care for your own soul while leading others.
Improving Your Vocal Performance taught by Tim Carson.  In this session you can observe and learn techniques and coaching principles that will help you or your team members in the areas of style, increasing range, stage presence/communication and much more.  Check out the option to either participate as an Observer or as a Performer.  Tim is an outstanding facilitator and proven coach of vocalists who truly minister with both skill and heart.
Mind the Gap: Leading Worship That Moves Off the Stage and Into the Hearts and Minds of Your Congregation, taught by Joe Horness.  What are the keys to building a worshipping church?  How do we ensure that what we do from the front translates into authentic and meaningful expressions of worship from our congregations?  Discover how to create rich worship experiences that engage the hearts and minds of your community and allow God to be worshipped for all He is!
      We'd love to see you join us in June for the Wonder experience.  I know a lot of you, like me, aren't too good at early bird deadlines.  Maybe this year, you can get ahead of the game and plan ahead in order to ensure the best price and the workshop experiences that will most enrich you personally and in your ministry.