Saturday Night Life, 2010 Edition

Wow, I can’t believe how long it’s been since I’ve posted a blog! During my absence:

• the Leaving Iowa play wrapped, leaving us with a fantastic experience, new friends, and some great memories.
• my work load and stress levels have increased again as the date of our major Collaboration launch draws near.
• I had a trip to San Jose for quarterly planning sessions, including a fun team building event: cooking at the Professional Culinary Institute. Those of you who know me well are surely laughing at the thought of that.

and last but not least:

• our annual comedy show at ALC (Saturday Night Life) came and went.

Saturday Night Life wrapped up this weekend. This year was challenging, mostly because I was juggling so many things in addition to the SNL producing/directing/acting duties. But, even with the struggles, I managed to have a little fun. I enjoy seeing all of the disparate pieces come together, resulting in a cohesive and entertaining show. What I enjoy even more is listening to the laughter of the people who attend the show. It makes all of it — well, most of it — worth the hassle.

I often stand backstage and just listen. Listen to the audience response — the laughs, snickers, and cheers. It puts a smile on my face every time. I guess that’s why I continue to do it even though it’s not easy. I also continue to do it because it’s a great outreach ministry and a good way to introduce people to our church. It shows people that you can be a Christian without losing your sense of humor. After all, wasn’t it God that gave us comedy in the first place?

In summary, I’m sorry for the long absence. There weren’t enough hours in the day to afford me time to write. I’ll try to post more regularly in the coming weeks. And for those of you who actually missed my regular updates, below are a few pics from my journey when I was too busy to write.

Getting ready for the Leaving Iowa show…our dressing room rocked!

The ladies of Leaving Iowa…luv ’em.

Some of the San Jose team members took me out to dinner to celebrate my birthday while I was there. I love these girls…they are so awesome!

Crazy Kaitlin made another appearance at this year’s SNL show…Rick, Rick, Rick!!!

Weekend Update with Kris and Laura…oh yeah, and special guest “singers,” Gary and Derrick

Our rocking band and special musical guest, Jacob Lowery — ah-mazing!

Hans and Franz

Celebrity Jeopardy with Sean Connery, Mr T, and Mary Elizabeth Gallagher

Behind the scenes: actors watching the show from backstage