Every year, our church has a booth at the Popcorn Festival here in Valparaiso. We sell hot dogs, brats, and cold water and pop (or “soda” if you’re my wife). It’s always a lot of fun, and we raise lots of money for really good causes. Last year we were able to give $100 to ShareFest and $600 or $700 to the men’s overnight shelter.

Still… it makes for a reaaaaalllllly long day! I’ve spent half of today preparing for it, and in a few short hours I’ll be getting up again to start loading the truck… then going to the church to pick up more stuff… then going to the booth site to unload it all… then running back out for a second load… and then finally settling in for my 11-hour shift at the booth, outdoors, in 80 degree weather — which should be great for selling ice-cold water and pop! My day will begin around 4:00 am and end around 9:00 pm.

Fortunately, I won’t be working the booth alone. Over a dozen volunteers will be stopping in to work their shifts and make things happen. That’s half the fun: getting to spend time with these guys & gals. The other half of the fun is interacting with the crowds. I get to play like I’m a carnival barker, shouting “Get your ice cold water here! Only one dollar! Ice cold Pepsi! One dollar!” And I get to have the occasional conversation with someone who asks, “So what are you guys doing this for?” And I get to invite lots and lots of people to our church’s Grand Opening Celebration that’s coming up on Sunday, Sept. 20. (You’re invited, too!)

But right now, it’s late. I need to hit the sack so I can get up in 4 hours and start my day. Maybe I’ll see you at the Popcorn Fest!