For any of you attending 2008 National Quartet Convention 9/11/2008 . . .
As the Marshalls and the Stivers are residents in Louisville, we wanted to host a casual cookout at our house next Thursday around 4:00 PM till whenever folks have to leave. I spoke with a number of folks and it appears that the best time for most everyone was Thursday – hope this does not exclude anyone.
We have attempted to invite the folks that we believe will be here next week for the NQC - if there are any other writers that you know will be here next Thursday afternoon for the NQC, please forward this email on to them as they are also welcome.
Our address is as follows:
2510 Windy Way
Louisville, KY 40207
We are less than 10 miles from where the NQC is located.
Please RSVP if you plan to come by next Tuesday. Also, spouses are also welcome.
Blessings,
Steve Marshall
stevemarshall@insightbb.com
Ed Stivers
estivers@aegonusa.com
Monday, September 8, 2008
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
My heart goes out to Simon...
You and your family are in my prayers. I am so sorry for your loss.
Ericka
Ericka
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Four weeks, time to blog home!
It's been four weeks ago today that we packed our bags, hugged necks, said our goodbyes, got email addresses to keep in touch, drove home, boarded airplanes, missed flights (don't ask), and plopped down in our living rooms weary, but inspired from being around such a great group of writers!
So....what have you been up too? Are you still humming the songs you wrote at retreat? Have you tried to explain a thousand times what it was like to people who just nod and smile that i'm-sure-you-had-a-great-time-but-it-makes-no-sense-to-me smile? Have you been on a "writing roll" since you got back, or did life overwhelm you and you just had to play catch up for a while? Have you been pitching songs or does it seem like everything is coming to a stand still?
Do you need some encouragement, or maybe some news you could share would encourage someone else? Just a few thoughts this afternoon as i sit in Starbucks for my weekly Sunday afternoon writing session with me!
I hope that you'll take a second to post and let us all read what you've been up too!
Donna N
So....what have you been up too? Are you still humming the songs you wrote at retreat? Have you tried to explain a thousand times what it was like to people who just nod and smile that i'm-sure-you-had-a-great-time-but-it-makes-no-sense-to-me smile? Have you been on a "writing roll" since you got back, or did life overwhelm you and you just had to play catch up for a while? Have you been pitching songs or does it seem like everything is coming to a stand still?
Do you need some encouragement, or maybe some news you could share would encourage someone else? Just a few thoughts this afternoon as i sit in Starbucks for my weekly Sunday afternoon writing session with me!
I hope that you'll take a second to post and let us all read what you've been up too!
Donna N
Friday, June 20, 2008
Pray for Wendy Wills
Hey everyone! This post is from Sue:-)
Wendy Wills is headed for Siberia next week. She would like all of us to pray for her and the team she is going with. Here's what she has to say about the trip:
Dear Songwriters,
You have probably received an invitation to a blog called "Hope4Noz". You may have already hit delete, not knowing who sent it to you. (Thanks Lee, for bringing this to my attention!) Well, I did! Why? Because I am going to Siberia! On June 25th I will be heading for the land cold, snow, & ice for a week of ministry. Of course, it's summer there, so there won't be any snow, cold or ice. Sigh!! Maybe I can go in the winter sometime!
Novokuznetsk is a city in Siberia, located just a little north of the middle of nowhere. My church, Grace Community Church, is for the second year in a row sending a team of teachers there to hold ESL classes. My role on the team is to lead music in the classroom for the teachers, and then do three concerts in evening for the students. I will have the privilege of sharing the story of my journey with Christ in word and song. Other teachers will share as well. The blog can fill any details you are interested in.
I have tried to get all your addresses to the person kindly administrating our team blog. If you did not receive the email invitation here is the link: http://www.blogger.com/i.g?inviteID=1214850457014981641&blogID=4849988176756087561.
Novokuznetsk is the city where one of my favorite authors was married, Fyodor Dostoyevsky. This quote from him sums up our reason for going half way around the world: "Man, so long as he remains free, has no more constant and agonizing anxiety than to find as quickly as possible someone to worship." It is our hope that the people of this city will one day worship the One True God through Jesus Christ.
As a guide to prayer for the team, I want to invite you to pray Colossians 3:12-15 for us. There are about 12 things which Paul exhorts the Colossians to do. You can pray one each day we are away or all of them everyday! I will do the same for you. Please keep the Russian believers in your prayers as well.
God's grace to you.
wendy wills
Wendy Wills is headed for Siberia next week. She would like all of us to pray for her and the team she is going with. Here's what she has to say about the trip:
Dear Songwriters,
You have probably received an invitation to a blog called "Hope4Noz". You may have already hit delete, not knowing who sent it to you. (Thanks Lee, for bringing this to my attention!) Well, I did! Why? Because I am going to Siberia! On June 25th I will be heading for the land cold, snow, & ice for a week of ministry. Of course, it's summer there, so there won't be any snow, cold or ice. Sigh!! Maybe I can go in the winter sometime!
Novokuznetsk is a city in Siberia, located just a little north of the middle of nowhere. My church, Grace Community Church, is for the second year in a row sending a team of teachers there to hold ESL classes. My role on the team is to lead music in the classroom for the teachers, and then do three concerts in evening for the students. I will have the privilege of sharing the story of my journey with Christ in word and song. Other teachers will share as well. The blog can fill any details you are interested in.
I have tried to get all your addresses to the person kindly administrating our team blog. If you did not receive the email invitation here is the link: http://www.blogger.com/i.g?inviteID=1214850457014981641&blogID=4849988176756087561.
Novokuznetsk is the city where one of my favorite authors was married, Fyodor Dostoyevsky. This quote from him sums up our reason for going half way around the world: "Man, so long as he remains free, has no more constant and agonizing anxiety than to find as quickly as possible someone to worship." It is our hope that the people of this city will one day worship the One True God through Jesus Christ.
As a guide to prayer for the team, I want to invite you to pray Colossians 3:12-15 for us. There are about 12 things which Paul exhorts the Colossians to do. You can pray one each day we are away or all of them everyday! I will do the same for you. Please keep the Russian believers in your prayers as well.
God's grace to you.
wendy wills
Monday, June 2, 2008
Epilogue
This same time last year I randomly ran into Joel in an airport. He was coming off the plane I was boarding. It was very cool coincidence and surreal.
This year, Steve Marshall came to Cedar Rapids for one of his good friend's daughters wedding. So, he stopped by and Allie and Steve cranked out a song. That by the way, was the first co-write written in the Cedar Rapids writing room! That is sooo cool.
We're trying hard to convince our Iowa friends that co-writing is fun, but so far our best efforts to explain why it's fun have been met with a lot of blank stares. We'll keep working. Till then we have some more openings in the Cedar Rapids writing room schedule, just let me know!
Also, Allie went to see LegacyFive this past Friday. (Dad and the boys stayed home and had Ice Cream). She brought back their latest project, "God's been Good" and there were many WAJ clinicians and registrants fingerprints all over it. I like it a lot (and you should go check it out http://coomercove.wordpress.com/2008/05/24/new-legacy-five-project-available/ )
The title track is by Sue and Belinda. It’s a very stripped down piano-vocal. A beautiful lyric, matched with a beautiful melody and just wraps up the whole concept of their project. Congrats and well done!
-nick
This year, Steve Marshall came to Cedar Rapids for one of his good friend's daughters wedding. So, he stopped by and Allie and Steve cranked out a song. That by the way, was the first co-write written in the Cedar Rapids writing room! That is sooo cool.
We're trying hard to convince our Iowa friends that co-writing is fun, but so far our best efforts to explain why it's fun have been met with a lot of blank stares. We'll keep working. Till then we have some more openings in the Cedar Rapids writing room schedule, just let me know!
Also, Allie went to see LegacyFive this past Friday. (Dad and the boys stayed home and had Ice Cream). She brought back their latest project, "God's been Good" and there were many WAJ clinicians and registrants fingerprints all over it. I like it a lot (and you should go check it out http://coomercove.wordpress.com/2008/05/24/new-legacy-five-project-available/ )
The title track is by Sue and Belinda. It’s a very stripped down piano-vocal. A beautiful lyric, matched with a beautiful melody and just wraps up the whole concept of their project. Congrats and well done!
-nick
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Patience...
is something I'm failing at right now! I'm just so excited to hear everyone's songs from the retreat. I know Sue and Sean are busy (and that Sue probably has a major love/hate thing going on with this new site). But just wanted to radiate some enthusiasm as we all wait like hungry little birds. Songs! Songs! Feed me!
I'm guessing we'll get an email with the site address? OK, back to my inbox vigil.
But really, I can be patient.
I'm guessing we'll get an email with the site address? OK, back to my inbox vigil.
But really, I can be patient.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
A selfish suggestion....
Although, one I don't think anyone would disagree with....
Joel - How about we do a retreat every 6 months! A "Spring/Summer" retreat and then a "fall/winter" one... ;0)
Please forgive me for being greedy... but it was just too much fun! Thanks to everyone for making it such a special weekend - especially my co-writers - Sue, Donna B., Brian, Ed, Phil, and Lee.... It was hard work - but so worth the effort!
Thanks again for inviting me to be a part of the weekend Joel! I'm so humbled and can't begin to tell you what it means to be considered a "part of the family"!
"God bless us all... each and every one."
sean
Joel - How about we do a retreat every 6 months! A "Spring/Summer" retreat and then a "fall/winter" one... ;0)
Please forgive me for being greedy... but it was just too much fun! Thanks to everyone for making it such a special weekend - especially my co-writers - Sue, Donna B., Brian, Ed, Phil, and Lee.... It was hard work - but so worth the effort!
Thanks again for inviting me to be a part of the weekend Joel! I'm so humbled and can't begin to tell you what it means to be considered a "part of the family"!
"God bless us all... each and every one."
sean
THREE HUNDRED FIFTY-NINE DAYS
It'll be here before you know it!
It occurred to me on the way to the airport that I was leaving the retreat with five songs I absolutely love. Then it hit me that not a single one of them was my idea. Thank you Donna N., Steve, Brian, Helga, Sean, Sue, and Deb for having great ideas, being passionate about them, and then letting me come along for the ride. I love co-writing, love this retreat, and love this family of writers.
Thank you, Joel, thank you, everybody, for a GREAT weekend!
Lee
It occurred to me on the way to the airport that I was leaving the retreat with five songs I absolutely love. Then it hit me that not a single one of them was my idea. Thank you Donna N., Steve, Brian, Helga, Sean, Sue, and Deb for having great ideas, being passionate about them, and then letting me come along for the ride. I love co-writing, love this retreat, and love this family of writers.
Thank you, Joel, thank you, everybody, for a GREAT weekend!
Lee
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Tomorrow Tomorrow...
I love ya, tomorrow... You're only a daaaaaayyyyy aaaaawwwwaaaayyyy!
Thank you, Thank you very much!!!
See ya then :)
Ericka
Thank you, Thank you very much!!!
See ya then :)
Ericka
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
TWO DAYS
You should have just received a letter with a schedule...if you didn't, e-mail me.
Directions can be found at www.countrylake.org which is the retreat center's website.
Can't wait!!!
Joel
Directions can be found at www.countrylake.org which is the retreat center's website.
Can't wait!!!
Joel
Snackfood and Games
I've got "writing" t-shirts packed... enough for each day. Now it's time to think about stuff like "what do I want to snack on" and "what games can I trounce everyone at?" Anybody ever play Taboo? It's a perfect game for writers!
The retreat is day after tomorrow, people!
Sue
The retreat is day after tomorrow, people!
Sue
Monday, May 19, 2008
And don't forget...
To bring pictures of your family! I love to see those and I'm sure I'm not the only one. I'll be showing mine off all weekend so please do the same!
-Kristie
-Kristie
Need a Lift?
Hey everyone... Can't wait for the weekend! I was supposed to be there last year, but my entire family got sick at the last minute and I had to cancel! I've been waiting since last year when Joel said it would definitely happen again! I look forward to seeing those of you I know and meeting those of you I don't!
I'm leaving late Wednesday afternoon for Nashville... staying the night and driving the rest of the way on Thursday morning... any guys need (or want) a ride? With luggage and instruments I've got room for one more.
Call me or email me if you're interested...
404.210.8738
seansmithmusic@gmail.com
See you all soon -
sean smith
I'm leaving late Wednesday afternoon for Nashville... staying the night and driving the rest of the way on Thursday morning... any guys need (or want) a ride? With luggage and instruments I've got room for one more.
Call me or email me if you're interested...
404.210.8738
seansmithmusic@gmail.com
See you all soon -
sean smith
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Eight Days
I've been in touch with the retreat center today and I think everything is settled. I've totally harrassed all my friends to loan me their keyboards so I THINK we're going to be okay there. Still...if you have an extra, bring it. I'd rather have too many than not enough.
I'll be sending out the schedule and the menus in the next few days. If you have any food issues, the kitchen can accomodate you. (Only having beef once, Helga!)
SPOTLIGHT:
BEN STORIE is a name that is starting to pop up on more and more CD liner notes these days, most recently on the new Gold City project. Ben and his wife Tonya were two-thirds of a trio called Sweeter Rain for years but now are staying home raising their daughter and focusing on Ben's writing. You won't meet a sweeter couple anywhere.
Ben and Tonya make their home in Sallisaw, Oklahoma which is the birthplace of a really great songwriter. Can anyone guess who?
I'll be sending out the schedule and the menus in the next few days. If you have any food issues, the kitchen can accomodate you. (Only having beef once, Helga!)
SPOTLIGHT:
BEN STORIE is a name that is starting to pop up on more and more CD liner notes these days, most recently on the new Gold City project. Ben and his wife Tonya were two-thirds of a trio called Sweeter Rain for years but now are staying home raising their daughter and focusing on Ben's writing. You won't meet a sweeter couple anywhere.
Ben and Tonya make their home in Sallisaw, Oklahoma which is the birthplace of a really great songwriter. Can anyone guess who?
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
NINE, The Musical
...just kidding!
Nine days. Wow.
Just like last year, I'm amazed at how God works out who is supposed to be here and who isn't. For whatever reason, there are some people who just couldn't work it out and others that just can't not come!
Joel
Nine days. Wow.
Just like last year, I'm amazed at how God works out who is supposed to be here and who isn't. For whatever reason, there are some people who just couldn't work it out and others that just can't not come!
Joel
Monday, May 12, 2008
10 DAYS
In 10 days, we'll all say goodbye to our families and friends, get in cars or airplanes and leave our homes behind for a few days.
In 10 days, we'll settle into our rooms, unpack our suitcases and greet old friends and meet new ones.
In 10 days, we'll all be a bit tired from travel, but the combination of excitement and nervousness will get the adrenaline flowing.
In 10 days, in a sleepy little corner of Indiana, 36 songwriters will gather together to put words and melodies into place.
In 10 days, we could change the world.
In 10 days, we'll settle into our rooms, unpack our suitcases and greet old friends and meet new ones.
In 10 days, we'll all be a bit tired from travel, but the combination of excitement and nervousness will get the adrenaline flowing.
In 10 days, in a sleepy little corner of Indiana, 36 songwriters will gather together to put words and melodies into place.
In 10 days, we could change the world.
Sunday, May 11, 2008
ELEVEN DAYS
Today is a sad day for gospel music. Legendary songwriter Dottie Rambo was killed in a bus accident in Missouri this morning. The legacy she leaves behind includes such great songs as, "We Shall Behold Him," "I Go To The Rock" "He Looked Beyond My Faults And Saw My Needs," "Holy Spirit, Thou Are Welcome" and literally hundreds more.
Oddly enough, I actually started to post the lyrics to one of her songs on here yesterday, but couldn't find the complete lyric so I didn't. I thought it would be appropriate. Here's what I could remember:
I GAVE IT ALL AWAY
Words and Music by Dottie Rambo
You gave me a special song
I thought You wrote for me alone
but when I read the words You gave
I found they were to give away
Unless I sing my song again
then every precious word will end
so take my song and empty me
I need a brand new melody
a song's just not a song, they say
until you give it all away....
I gave it all away
my precious song of yesterday
the words live on, the music stays
because I gave it all away
I gave it all away
the rhymes, the lines, each clever phrase
and if a new song's born today
I'll gladly give it all away.
Oddly enough, I actually started to post the lyrics to one of her songs on here yesterday, but couldn't find the complete lyric so I didn't. I thought it would be appropriate. Here's what I could remember:
I GAVE IT ALL AWAY
Words and Music by Dottie Rambo
You gave me a special song
I thought You wrote for me alone
but when I read the words You gave
I found they were to give away
Unless I sing my song again
then every precious word will end
so take my song and empty me
I need a brand new melody
a song's just not a song, they say
until you give it all away....
I gave it all away
my precious song of yesterday
the words live on, the music stays
because I gave it all away
I gave it all away
the rhymes, the lines, each clever phrase
and if a new song's born today
I'll gladly give it all away.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
FIFTEEN DAYS
WRITE A SONG WITH YOU
Got my cup of coffee
almost 10 a.m.
seems you're always ready
by the time that I come in
We search for words and melodies
and before the day is through
I get to write a song with you.
You throw out a title
makes me start to think
who knows what will happen
what the afternoon will bring
sometimes laughter, sometimes tears
but in this little room
I get to write a song with you
It's not just a destination
but a journey of the heart
giving shape and substance to this song
both of us contribute
but because of who you are
I'm just happy that I get to go along
We work well together
who'd have ever guessed
I've got such limitations
but you're Lord of all that's best
So Father, if you're willing
there's not a thing I'd rather do
I get to write a song with you.
Father, if you're willing
there's not a thing I'd rather do
I get to write a song with you.
(Sue C. Smith/Joel Lindsey)
Got my cup of coffee
almost 10 a.m.
seems you're always ready
by the time that I come in
We search for words and melodies
and before the day is through
I get to write a song with you.
You throw out a title
makes me start to think
who knows what will happen
what the afternoon will bring
sometimes laughter, sometimes tears
but in this little room
I get to write a song with you
It's not just a destination
but a journey of the heart
giving shape and substance to this song
both of us contribute
but because of who you are
I'm just happy that I get to go along
We work well together
who'd have ever guessed
I've got such limitations
but you're Lord of all that's best
So Father, if you're willing
there's not a thing I'd rather do
I get to write a song with you.
Father, if you're willing
there's not a thing I'd rather do
I get to write a song with you.
(Sue C. Smith/Joel Lindsey)
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Sixteen Days
I don't know about you, but I've already started packing! Seriously. Well, I'm actually going to New York for a week before the retreat but still, I can't help but be excited. I'm excited about the new people joining us this year and all the different dynamics they'll add.
SPOTLIGHT:
CHRISTOPHER KAI is joining us for the first time this year. Many of you know Chris through Write About Jesus and you know that he won the overall songwriting competition this year for his song, Truly Jesus. In addition to being the worship leader at his church in St. Louis, Christopher has been coming to Nashville to do some co-writing as of late. Please welcome Christopher to our community of writers!
SPOTLIGHT:
CHRISTOPHER KAI is joining us for the first time this year. Many of you know Chris through Write About Jesus and you know that he won the overall songwriting competition this year for his song, Truly Jesus. In addition to being the worship leader at his church in St. Louis, Christopher has been coming to Nashville to do some co-writing as of late. Please welcome Christopher to our community of writers!
Sunday, May 4, 2008
18 Days to GO
Hey everybody...
Happy Sunday! Hope you're all having a beautiful and relaxing day.
There are 18 days to go, but only one week until I have to have all the information to the people at the retreat center...so if you haven't officially registered, please do so now.
SPOTLIGHT:
I'm super-excited that DAVID MOFFIT will be joining us this year. David is a worship leader at Long Hollow Baptist Church in Hendersonville, Tennessee. David has had songs recorded by so many artists down through the years, but his best-known song is probably "I Surrender All" which was made popular by Clay Crosse. In addition to writing for artists, he writes a lot of praise and worship songs and musicals and this year was nominated for a Dove Award. Welcome, David!
Happy Sunday! Hope you're all having a beautiful and relaxing day.
There are 18 days to go, but only one week until I have to have all the information to the people at the retreat center...so if you haven't officially registered, please do so now.
SPOTLIGHT:
I'm super-excited that DAVID MOFFIT will be joining us this year. David is a worship leader at Long Hollow Baptist Church in Hendersonville, Tennessee. David has had songs recorded by so many artists down through the years, but his best-known song is probably "I Surrender All" which was made popular by Clay Crosse. In addition to writing for artists, he writes a lot of praise and worship songs and musicals and this year was nominated for a Dove Award. Welcome, David!
Friday, May 2, 2008
Monday, April 28, 2008
Two Dozen Days!
I cannot believe how quickly the retreat is coming upon us...and yet at the same time it feels like it will never get here! Thanks everyone who has written to volunteer their time or to just be excited. I'm sorry I haven't written you all back individually, but just know that I love being a part of this retreat and I love seeing how excited you all are.
I got a new demo in today that was written at last year's retreat! How fun to see those songs just beginning to find their way.
SEEKING TECHIE VOLUNTEERS:
Okay, all you people who are much more computer-literate than I am: I'm looking for someone who can find some type of website where we can post all of our retreat songs in a password-protected environment. It has to be a space where we can all access it and post our songs (remember we're talking about a lot of songs), but can't be open to the public. Who wants to jump on this?! I can gladly pay for it out of the retreat budget, but just don't have the head for this kind of stuff.
ALSO: Some of you have indicated to me that you're coming, but haven't actually registered yet. I have to turn in everyone's name to the retreat center by May 8 for insurance purposes. So if you haven't registered, please do so as soon as possible.
Joel
I got a new demo in today that was written at last year's retreat! How fun to see those songs just beginning to find their way.
SEEKING TECHIE VOLUNTEERS:
Okay, all you people who are much more computer-literate than I am: I'm looking for someone who can find some type of website where we can post all of our retreat songs in a password-protected environment. It has to be a space where we can all access it and post our songs (remember we're talking about a lot of songs), but can't be open to the public. Who wants to jump on this?! I can gladly pay for it out of the retreat budget, but just don't have the head for this kind of stuff.
ALSO: Some of you have indicated to me that you're coming, but haven't actually registered yet. I have to turn in everyone's name to the retreat center by May 8 for insurance purposes. So if you haven't registered, please do so as soon as possible.
Joel
Friday, April 25, 2008
YIPPEE...
Hey guys, we are counting down to "retreat time"....Can't wait to meet and fellowship with my friends and add some new relationships over the weekend.
Thanks Joel for being a "visionary" and giving all of us a place to fellowship, write and THIS YEAR record what Father whispers to us..
the Next Level...Heaven's Favor!
t
Thanks Joel for being a "visionary" and giving all of us a place to fellowship, write and THIS YEAR record what Father whispers to us..
the Next Level...Heaven's Favor!
t
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Thirty
Ya'll remember the song Allie LaPointe and Marcia Henry wrote last year called "The Potter Knows The Clay?" Well, it's the new single by The Perrys!!! How cool is that?
Yep - it's already been shipped to radio!! Woo hoo! Congratulations Marcia and Allie!!
So...if there's a southern gospel radio station in your area, CALL IN AND REQUEST IT!! And have everyone you know call in and request it!!!
Yep - it's already been shipped to radio!! Woo hoo! Congratulations Marcia and Allie!!
So...if there's a southern gospel radio station in your area, CALL IN AND REQUEST IT!! And have everyone you know call in and request it!!!
Monday, April 21, 2008
31 Flavors
Although many of us are busy here at GMA Week in Nashville, the retreat is ever-present on our minds and in our conversations.
31 days.
:)
31 days.
:)
Saturday, April 19, 2008
33 Days - That's Just Over A Month, Ya'll!
Okay - it's official: I'm obsessed with this retreat! For the past hour, I have been staring at the spreadsheet of who's coming and who's potentially coming and I've just been dreaming of the combinations of writers. Also, when a writer responds to say they can't come, I feel so sorry for them!
Also, what do you think of this? I know when I'm supposed to write with someone I've never met, I like to spend a little time getting to know them. So...I'm thinking about drawing names on Thursday night for the first session on Friday. That way, if you've been selected to write with a certain person, you can introduce yourself, possibly sit with them at a meal...just get to know them instead of walking into a session cold. Thoughts?
Also, what do you think of this? I know when I'm supposed to write with someone I've never met, I like to spend a little time getting to know them. So...I'm thinking about drawing names on Thursday night for the first session on Friday. That way, if you've been selected to write with a certain person, you can introduce yourself, possibly sit with them at a meal...just get to know them instead of walking into a session cold. Thoughts?
Friday, April 18, 2008
34
Several of you have asked about starting and ending times for the retreat...check-in begins at 3:00 on Thursday, but actual events won't begin until 7 p.m. We'll wrap up around 11:00 a.m. on Sunday.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
THIRTY-FIVE TO GO
One of the things that I have already been moved by with this year's retreat is the amount of help and support that all of you have been sending. I can tend to be a bit of a control freak sometimes, but you're volunteering and I'm letting you help! Thanks to all of you so much. This is not my retreat, it's OUR retreat...and it really feels that way!
I scared several of you with my post about you not being registered until you've paid...so several of you have written to make sure we received your money. If I haven't answered you yet, it's because Sue and I haven't had a chance to update our information with each other. We'll do that tomorrow and I'll let you know. Until then, hang tight!
SPOTLIGHT:
Wendy Wills is another new addition to our retreat this year. Wendy lives in Nashville with her husband Dave and their two kids. Wendy has the heart of a poet and that's definitely reflected in her writing. Her songs have been recorded by such varied artists as the Gaither Vocal Band, Jaci Velasquez, Janet Paschal, Jill Paquette, Oleta Adams, Jeff & Sheri Easter, 33 Miles and Pam Thum.
I scared several of you with my post about you not being registered until you've paid...so several of you have written to make sure we received your money. If I haven't answered you yet, it's because Sue and I haven't had a chance to update our information with each other. We'll do that tomorrow and I'll let you know. Until then, hang tight!
SPOTLIGHT:
Wendy Wills is another new addition to our retreat this year. Wendy lives in Nashville with her husband Dave and their two kids. Wendy has the heart of a poet and that's definitely reflected in her writing. Her songs have been recorded by such varied artists as the Gaither Vocal Band, Jaci Velasquez, Janet Paschal, Jill Paquette, Oleta Adams, Jeff & Sheri Easter, 33 Miles and Pam Thum.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
36 Days
Okay...I know by the time you read this it'll be tomorrow! :) (We've still got two hours here on the west coast.)
Thanks everybody for the e-mails asking if you can help, offering keyboards, etc. This is going to be a GREAT retreat!
More tomorrow....
Thanks everybody for the e-mails asking if you can help, offering keyboards, etc. This is going to be a GREAT retreat!
More tomorrow....
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
THIRTY-SEVEN (The Countdown Resumes)
Hey everybody!
Sorry again for the silence of the last few days.
Word to the wise: We're filling up fast so if you haven't registered yet, you need to do so. We're limited to 40 and you're not considered registered until you've paid, so be sure to do that soon.
SPOTLIGHT:
One of the things I'm really excited about this year, is the addition of CHRIS HAVENS and his studio. Chris is setting up a portable demo studio where, immediately upon finishing a song, we can go and record a piano/vocal or guitar/vocal! How's that for service? Immediate demos! Get to know Chris because he will be a great contact to have in Nashville for getting demos done!
Sorry again for the silence of the last few days.
Word to the wise: We're filling up fast so if you haven't registered yet, you need to do so. We're limited to 40 and you're not considered registered until you've paid, so be sure to do that soon.
SPOTLIGHT:
One of the things I'm really excited about this year, is the addition of CHRIS HAVENS and his studio. Chris is setting up a portable demo studio where, immediately upon finishing a song, we can go and record a piano/vocal or guitar/vocal! How's that for service? Immediate demos! Get to know Chris because he will be a great contact to have in Nashville for getting demos done!
Saturday, April 12, 2008
FORTY DAYS AND NIGHTS
...until our retreat!!
Thanks for those of you who are going the extra mile, keyboard-wise! I really appreciate it. And to those of you who haven't responded, we're not there yet!
Sorry for the silence over the past few days, I'm in Oklahoma attending my Grandfather's funeral.
SPOTLIGHT:
Indie artist Brent Vernon is joining us this year! I've known Brent over 10 years and recently had the pleasure of sitting down with him to catch up on all that he's been doing and felt like he would make a great addition to our group! He is currently in the studio with star-producer Don Koch working on his new project and is always busy touring. Be sure to check him out at www.brentvernon.com
Thanks for those of you who are going the extra mile, keyboard-wise! I really appreciate it. And to those of you who haven't responded, we're not there yet!
Sorry for the silence over the past few days, I'm in Oklahoma attending my Grandfather's funeral.
SPOTLIGHT:
Indie artist Brent Vernon is joining us this year! I've known Brent over 10 years and recently had the pleasure of sitting down with him to catch up on all that he's been doing and felt like he would make a great addition to our group! He is currently in the studio with star-producer Don Koch working on his new project and is always busy touring. Be sure to check him out at www.brentvernon.com
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
44
Thanks for coming through with the keyboards!! This puts us back on track a bit.
I am really amazed at the responses I'm getting from people about the retreat this year...we're going to end up turning people away. I limited it to 40, not really thinking we'd have that many (last year I 'limited' it to 30 and we had 27) but we're already getting really close to 40 people who have said they're coming. Of course I learned last year that saying you're coming and actually coming are two different things! But still...I'm thrilled at the responses.
SPOTLIGHT
Also joining us this year is singer/songwriter DONNA BEAUVAIS (pronounced BOW-VAY!) Donna first entered the music scene as singer/founder of the group Hope's Call. Although the group is no longer touring, she is quickly making a name for herself as a producer and a writer. As if writing and producing were not enough, she also handles radio promotion for Daywind records. She will be a wonderul addition to our group!
I am really amazed at the responses I'm getting from people about the retreat this year...we're going to end up turning people away. I limited it to 40, not really thinking we'd have that many (last year I 'limited' it to 30 and we had 27) but we're already getting really close to 40 people who have said they're coming. Of course I learned last year that saying you're coming and actually coming are two different things! But still...I'm thrilled at the responses.
SPOTLIGHT
Also joining us this year is singer/songwriter DONNA BEAUVAIS (pronounced BOW-VAY!) Donna first entered the music scene as singer/founder of the group Hope's Call. Although the group is no longer touring, she is quickly making a name for herself as a producer and a writer. As if writing and producing were not enough, she also handles radio promotion for Daywind records. She will be a wonderul addition to our group!
Monday, April 7, 2008
45 Days
Keyboard Crisis! Okay, maybe crisis is too harsh of a word, but so far we're running 4 to 1 in the keyboard/registrant ratio, so if you can bring a keyboard please plan on doing so. Some people sent their information in but didn't say yes or no as to whether or not you could bring a keyboard, so please let me know. It looks like we'll probably have around 40 writers, which means we need at least 18 to 20 keyboards. I know some of you are guitar players, but we still need to make sure that, if you're writing with a keyboard player, there is a keyboard for you.
(If you're flying in, don't worry about the keyboard, we'll figure it out.) If you're driving in, and you happen to have TWO keyboards and don't mind bringing them both, it would be much appreciated.
SPOTLIGHT
We're excited to welcome GEORGE SEARCY into our retreat family this year. George has written for Integrity Music and is the writer of such phenomenal praise and worship songs as Christ Above Me, Come and Behold Him and Our Heart! He is currently the worship leader at East Shore Presbyterian Church in Fairhope, Alabama.
(If you're flying in, don't worry about the keyboard, we'll figure it out.) If you're driving in, and you happen to have TWO keyboards and don't mind bringing them both, it would be much appreciated.
SPOTLIGHT
We're excited to welcome GEORGE SEARCY into our retreat family this year. George has written for Integrity Music and is the writer of such phenomenal praise and worship songs as Christ Above Me, Come and Behold Him and Our Heart! He is currently the worship leader at East Shore Presbyterian Church in Fairhope, Alabama.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
XLVI (Forty-Six, I Think!)
Forty-six days doesn't sound very long to me. Or maybe that's just because I'm forty-six years old and that's not old. It's not. Stop laughing. I mean it!! :)
You know what I love the most about planning this retreat? The e-mails from people asking about flights, rooms, etc., just feeling the excitement building from the details! I love it!
SPOTLIGHT:
Lisa Qualsett is coming this year! Many of you know her from Write About Jesus and you know how great she is. I'm excited for what she will add to our retreat this year. She co-wrote many of the songs from the Dove-nominated musical, PRAISE ROCKS, and she is a writer for Upright Grand Music. I love her heart. I didn't ask her permission to post this poem (because it's 5:00 in the morning -- although I think she's as much of an insomniac as I am so she's probably awake) but I love it. This is who Lisa is in my head:
I Wouldn't Love Magenta
LisaQ
Dimly tinted are the days
In shades of stone and sepia
But if it weren't for times like this
I wouldn't love Magenta
If it weren't for tears that fall
And wash the colors colorless
Bleeding fear and joy to one
I wouldn't love Magenta
Bursting through the morning sky
Then gone until the end of day
If it burned with every hour
It wouldn't take my breath away
So give me fog and gray sometimes
To keep me grateful for the Sun
'Cause if I had a perfect life
I wouldn't love Magenta
Joel
You know what I love the most about planning this retreat? The e-mails from people asking about flights, rooms, etc., just feeling the excitement building from the details! I love it!
SPOTLIGHT:
Lisa Qualsett is coming this year! Many of you know her from Write About Jesus and you know how great she is. I'm excited for what she will add to our retreat this year. She co-wrote many of the songs from the Dove-nominated musical, PRAISE ROCKS, and she is a writer for Upright Grand Music. I love her heart. I didn't ask her permission to post this poem (because it's 5:00 in the morning -- although I think she's as much of an insomniac as I am so she's probably awake) but I love it. This is who Lisa is in my head:
I Wouldn't Love Magenta
LisaQ
Dimly tinted are the days
In shades of stone and sepia
But if it weren't for times like this
I wouldn't love Magenta
If it weren't for tears that fall
And wash the colors colorless
Bleeding fear and joy to one
I wouldn't love Magenta
Bursting through the morning sky
Then gone until the end of day
If it burned with every hour
It wouldn't take my breath away
So give me fog and gray sometimes
To keep me grateful for the Sun
'Cause if I had a perfect life
I wouldn't love Magenta
Joel
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Me too!
My bags are packed...I am SO looking forward to being there.
I'm already praying things that sound like the songwriters prayer.
Phil
I'm already praying things that sound like the songwriters prayer.
Phil
47 DAYS
I feel sorry for the people I write with between now and the retreat...'cause I'm stockpiling my ideas!! I even have a new folder on my desktop just for retreat ideas!
SPOTLIGHT
Last year CHRIS BINION was planning to attend our retreat, but he was involved in a terrible car accident that put him in the hospital for weeks. His injuries required reconstructive surgery and several months of recovery but Chris is back and we're excited that he will be joining us. He is an exclusive writer for Crossroads Publishing and writes songs in many genres. He has had dozens of cuts by many artists, but my personal favorite is "The Answer Is Christ" by The Talley Trio. He and his family live in Friendsville, Texas.
JOEL
SPOTLIGHT
Last year CHRIS BINION was planning to attend our retreat, but he was involved in a terrible car accident that put him in the hospital for weeks. His injuries required reconstructive surgery and several months of recovery but Chris is back and we're excited that he will be joining us. He is an exclusive writer for Crossroads Publishing and writes songs in many genres. He has had dozens of cuts by many artists, but my personal favorite is "The Answer Is Christ" by The Talley Trio. He and his family live in Friendsville, Texas.
JOEL
Friday, April 4, 2008
Can't Wait!... from Sue
I LOVE Joel's co-writing retreat and I can't wait for this year. It's the one time of year I get to see so many of my WAJ writing friends without doing any work to make it happen. Thank you, Joel! Thank you for making this your baby and providing this incredible opportunity for all of us.
I can't wait to meet the new friends who are coming. Can't wait to see all the old ones.
I can't wait.
Guess I've made that clear, huh.
I can't wait to meet the new friends who are coming. Can't wait to see all the old ones.
I can't wait.
Guess I've made that clear, huh.
48 Days
So far we have over 20 people committed to coming to the retreat this year!! We're limiting the total number to 40 so we're over halfway there!! We're planning the menu, working on t-shirts, taking registrations and praying that this retreat will be an absolute God-thing! Already, like last year, God has been working out things for people who need to be there.
For the second year in a row, Donna Norton was the FIRST person to respond to the e-mail about the retreat! I love enthusiasm! I love teasing Donna about the fact that last year, she was up at the crack of dawn, thinking that everybody else would be up too! She was dressed and ready to go and came bounding down into the lobby...and it was empty!! Again, I love enthusiasm!!
For the second year in a row, Donna Norton was the FIRST person to respond to the e-mail about the retreat! I love enthusiasm! I love teasing Donna about the fact that last year, she was up at the crack of dawn, thinking that everybody else would be up too! She was dressed and ready to go and came bounding down into the lobby...and it was empty!! Again, I love enthusiasm!!
Thursday, April 3, 2008
THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS....
If I counted correctly, there are 50, oops - I mean 49, days until the retreat!! Woo hoo!!!!
We have several people who have written to say that they can't come because of conflicts in their schedules. All of them have been extremely disappointed. Kim Walling even begged a friend of hers to change the date of her wedding!!
I'm very excited about some new friends we have coming and thought I would give you a little insight to them, one by one.
SPOTLIGHT:
First off, we have DON PARDOE. Don is a long-time member of the legendary CCM group Glad and has written many of the songs for the group, as well as for other artists as well. Don and his wife, Michelle, along with their three kids Eric, Emily and Anna, live in Texas, where Don is a worship pastor. In addition to working with his church, flying out for the occasional Glad concert, and writing songs, Don also enjoys producing projects for other artists.
Don is an amazing vocalist, songwriter and keyboardist and I am so excited to have him join our co-writing family!
Check back in often to get a glimpse of who else is coming!!
Joel
We have several people who have written to say that they can't come because of conflicts in their schedules. All of them have been extremely disappointed. Kim Walling even begged a friend of hers to change the date of her wedding!!
I'm very excited about some new friends we have coming and thought I would give you a little insight to them, one by one.
SPOTLIGHT:
First off, we have DON PARDOE. Don is a long-time member of the legendary CCM group Glad and has written many of the songs for the group, as well as for other artists as well. Don and his wife, Michelle, along with their three kids Eric, Emily and Anna, live in Texas, where Don is a worship pastor. In addition to working with his church, flying out for the occasional Glad concert, and writing songs, Don also enjoys producing projects for other artists.
Don is an amazing vocalist, songwriter and keyboardist and I am so excited to have him join our co-writing family!
Check back in often to get a glimpse of who else is coming!!
Joel
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
It's ON!!!
Okay as Kristie would say... It's now T-minus 2months until the retreat! Any mathematicians out there that know exactly how many days in our countdown until we all get to hang out and write some really cool songs together! I'm way too tired to think right now! :) Where is everyone? Who is going?
G'Night
Ericka
G'Night
Ericka
Monday, February 18, 2008
It's About That Time Again....
And I couldn't be more excited! Almost t-minus three months til the next retreat, so I thought I'd start things up on the blog as we make our travel plans and anticipate another great weekend. Anybody else looking forward to this????
I'm starting to make my plans and hope to catch the good deals. Where is everybody flying into? I flew into Louisville last year but I was hoping for a less expensive option this time around. If you flew into somewhere else last year, let me know please!
Well, I'd better get cracking on some good ideas! Can't wait to see you all soon.
-Kristie
I'm starting to make my plans and hope to catch the good deals. Where is everybody flying into? I flew into Louisville last year but I was hoping for a less expensive option this time around. If you flew into somewhere else last year, let me know please!
Well, I'd better get cracking on some good ideas! Can't wait to see you all soon.
-Kristie
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