Campy Darryl

Working with kids is one of the best jobs anyone could have. I know that sometimes things can get bad, but who cares... I have a job that allows me to study the Word of God, share and interact with kids... all kids both young and old. Jesus said, "unless you become like little children, you cannot enter the Kingdom of God." Darryl is in a similar situation as I am. He's a camp director for a local Christian camp that we use for retreats here in central Washington. When I first met him I thought, "man, he's just a kid." I learned, who better to lead a camp for teens. Anything we have ever needed at our time at Camas meadow, Darryl has provided... even good coffee, not that nasty old camp coffee. In the Kingdom of God, it's nice to know I am not alone. There are other good men and women who are doing the service of the King and at anytime, we can gather forces together and love God and love our neighbor. Even though Darryl and I only get to see each other once or twice a year, the time between never seems to interrupt right where we left off. One of the MANY beautiful things that the Love of Jesus brings to his people. peace. johno~

The Principal

When I was in high school, I remember a saying introduced to me by one of my instructors... "If you think you can or can't, you're right." Education. It's more than books, papers and essays. It's learning, growing and life. Mike Hill is a good friend who shares a passion with me... education. Mike is the newly appointed principal for Cascade High School and he's the best man for the job. I only wish I had someone like Mike in my years of schooling. He takes the time to listen. He wants to know what you think. He's great with complements and fast with a encouraging critique. Mike also serves as an elder (shepherd) at the church I work with. In short, he's one of four men who serve as... my boss. He offers so much to the Kingdom here in central Washington. He brings to our community ears that listen in a time when so many wish to be heard. I admire that. How many men in the world actually serve like this? He gives wisdom and knowledge and grace, in Christ, to many hurting people. Encouragement. He's raised three sons who bring honor to his name. He loves football... (maybe a little to much) and his dream is to work with the congregation of believers near his college alum, Washington State University. I know he will... someday. But for today, he leads as good leaders do... Not in screams nor crazy hand gestures... rather, he walks beside you, holding your hand, if need be, and with an encouraging voice he pushes you out of the nest... so you can fly. peace. johno~

DCOY

Most of my photo "expeditions" are with my former student and good friend Dustin Coy. It seems like yesterday when I first met Dustin. It was at a camp hosted by the church I know work for. Somewhat of an interviewing process with both feet in the water... It was shortly after that I had both feet in the water with Dustin as he committed his life to Christ and was baptized. Dustin is one of those "natural" artist. You know those who never had to really study for that final exam and still passed with an A+? Well, Dustin has a natural artistic style. His eye sees it like many never do. It's innovating and original. Both he and I can take pictures of the same thing and his, most of the time, looks better than mine. Jerk! Not really. Not only can Dustin capture photography he is an natural painter and sculpture. It's incredible to see fresh talent like his. One year ago Dustin made a vow to his sweetheart, Samantha, and they celebrate their one year anniversary today, of which I was honored to perform the ceremony. To add to this celebration, Dustin and Samantha's first child is due the first of July. It's been a great journey and I know we will have many more. I feel as if Dustin is a part of my family. I trust him. His heart is pure and I'm glad he serves God with me. It means a lot to have someone who can offer as much as Dustin can on your team. I only hope I can encourage him as much as he has encouraged me. Happy Anniversary my friend. peace. johno~

Best kept secret

I do love photography. It is a wonderful outlet for me. It stops the rushing world around me and makes me stand still. Details. To be able to share lives in this forum is a great blessing for me. Old lives and new ones, old friends and new ones. Landon Michaelson presented a lighting class at our photography association class a few months ago and it was wonderful. I knew there was something different about him. Not only does he tower over the masses in his physical height his smile and joy overflowed. Overflowed... that's something that doesn't come with many. It is a sign of the Spirit. I gathered knowledge from the class, got a business card and went on my way with a promise to connect sometime. Time. Time. Shopping time at Costco, I ran into Landon and his family, again, the smile and I felt the "overflow." I met his wife and two children and recommitied to "hook up" again. In a follow up email, Landon wrote, "Good to see you again. Contact me anytime about anything. Always good to meet up with another photographer, family man, and man of faith!" I KNEW IT! ANOTHER MAN OF FAITH! When the Spirit of God lives in lives, it's different. My time in knowing Landon has not been long, however, it is a relationship which will live into eternity. I love that. I look forward to the many adventures we will have... the rest of our eternity. peace. johno~

my friend Dano

How long have I known Dan? I don't know. It's been within my eight years of living in Wenatchee, but it seems longer. Not in a bad way, but a good way of course. I guess the first time I met Dan was on a visit to a youth staff at her work place. Dan was her boss. Her words were, "you both are so much alike, it's just that Dan is the 'bizarro johno'." Huh? (If I only knew the true meaning of that statement at the time). It was then a friendship began. God had placed each of us at a certain place and a certain time. I've learned a lot about myself through Dan and even more about God. I remember golfing one time with Dan, I was left with about a 3 foot putt for par... easy enough. Then Dan, who by the way had not said much until hole number 7, said, "I know Christ died, but tell me how Christ died for ME?" Did I mention I was just about to putt that 3 footer? I looked up at him and said... JERK! I'M ABOUT TO MAKE MY FIRST PAR WITH THIS 3 FOOT PUTT AND YOU WAIT UNTIL NOW TO ASK ME A QUESTION LIKE THAT? UNFAIR AND UNSPORTSMAN-LIKE!... I missed the putt so I tried to answer the question. It has been a great journey walking with Dan and seeing him ask, listen and respond to books I would suggest and walking through the story of Jesus, God who came to earth. I will never forget him saying, "I'm ready to be baptized." We set up a time went down to the Columbia river and responded to the question asked on the months before on the golf course. Christ died for you so that you might LIVE. (That's the short version) Dan and his wife were both baptized that day and their embrace is not only captured on film, but in my life. Dan, is a true friend and he is a true servent. He is so... Gentile. It messes with me sometimes but that's ok. He is a family man, a strong husband, a great father. He wears a set of lenses that allows him to see things in a way that many cannot. I love that. It is a gift. He's creating a legacy, he is growing his family tree in a way that has never been done before. It is solid, it is built on Christ. Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. -Psalm 1 Every tree needs a trunk... Dan is that trunk. peace. johno~

Brother

When push comes to shove, there are a few people you want on your side to watch your back. Darren is that kind of man who you want. I've learned a lot from him. I now own many "little man" tools thanks to the encouragement of Darren telling me I can do it. I have little man stuff, because Darren is the MAN. However, it is not his tools that make him the man, though we joke often. It is his heart of a servant. If anyone thinks they can do it... Darren does it. He uses his gifts for so many others. His heart is a childs heart. He plays like a kid... BIG KID. Yet, his thoughts and heart show years of wisdom beyond his age. I am glad to have this man as a brother in Christ. What a wonderful glimps of what eternity will be with brothers like Darren. peace. johno~