Wildwood

New Shirt

2011-12-19T15:34:00.000-08:00

Well everyone, I'm sorry for missing last week, but for this weeks I'd like to give you a preview of something to come. New to Wildwood this year, we're planning on selling a tank top in the Wildwood "Store," and it will look something like this.

Winterizing Wildwood

2011-12-07T15:25:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the late post, but here's a glimpse at what it takes to get Wildwood ready for winter.

2011-11-28T17:20:00.000-08:00

This past week before Thanksgiving, Bailey and I had an opportunity to be a part of a worship night at Village Bible Church in Southern California. It was a lot of fun getting to see Happy (Andrew Gilmore) and our other friends there outside of Wildwood. It was also great to see Robbie Conrad again as one of his student bands from Coast Hills Church. Thanks Village Bible for the invite, and here is a clip from our time there. Sorry, it's pretty poor quality.

Thoughts from Avienne

2011-11-21T13:55:00.000-08:00

Hello Beautiful People!

Avienne here and I'm sure that just like all of you... I miss Hume! Doesn't feel like so long ago that I just saw all of your chipper smiling faces! But I guess it has been.. because life keeps moving! And now I'm here, home in San Leandro, CA, just chillin'. I am newly employed at a store called Anthropologie and no, I am not an anthropologist. For funsies I've been exploring my inner interior designer
taking on the project of redecorating my bathroom. I definitely miss the fresh, breath-taking outdoors, and having a pet deer but man, it has been lovely enjoying the comforts of the indoors! As for me and God, He's been reminding me big time that He HAS always carried me through each and every thing, He IS carrying me, and He WILL carry me. Such a wonderful and powerful truth that I hope you all are holding fast too as well and standing strong and keeping the JOY no matter where you are!

Anniversary Trip

2011-11-16T22:10:00.000-08:00

So I apologize for the late upload, but I promise there was good reason. You see my wife and I just celebrated our first anniversary this past weekend, and so the blog wasn't really a priority for me at the time. During our anniversary though, Bailey and I went to the Monterey Bay Aquarium to look at some fish, and I put together this video to show you some of the things we saw. Enjoy!

Thoughts from David

2011-11-08T09:08:00.000-08:00

Hey whats up ya'll!
I can’t believe it’s already October! Time has been flying by so fast, and it feels like this summer was years ago, and boy do i miss it! There's nothing quite like livin in a tent chillin with God and some of the coolest people you'll ever meet! (Hint: WW staff! lol) Cant wait to go back up to Hume!
But since WW finished i've been pretty busy! Drove home, visited my family, went to the beach (only down side to hume, no beach), chilled with some friends from back home, and then headed off to school. Im in my sophmore year out at Eternity Bible College, and livin in Simi Valley in a house with 7 other guys. Im studying for a Bachelors in Biblical Studies, and am lovin it! I basically get to have library day all year round! Not to bad right.
Also thanks to the reno guys i went out and got a slackline, and plan on getting pretty much everyone i run into to try it! Its been fun! That was random, but just had to give you guys a shout out!
Lately God has been pushing me out of my comfort zone, and teaching me to follow Him even when i dont see the path. I recently moved to a new church, and am helping out some friends with a small youth group. Its kinda a continuation of this summer, but God keeps workin on me each and every day.
And thats a sum up of whats i've been up too lately. Hope you are all doing well! Cant wait to see you all again, and hit me up on facebook between now and then if you wanna talk! Love to hear what Gods been doing in your lives as well!

Much Love Ya'll!
David
E.

Thoughts from Samantha

2011-10-31T10:31:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! It is SO hard to believe that it's been more than a month since the last week of camp. I went home right after the end of week 10 and started back at CSU Stanislaus that Monday. I am working on attaining my Liberal Studies major and eventually my teaching credential. This past summer was honestly one of the best summers of my life! The LORD worked so powerfully in our staff and gave me many opportunities to have great conversations with all of you. This summer, I was reminded again and again that I am not in control of my own life. At the beginning of summer I struggled with feelings of inadequacy for my position as a Pawn. It was amazing to watch God show me that I was in the perfect place to be serving Him for the summer- I knew that I couldn't do it on my own and that I would have to lean on God every day of the summer. It was also neat to have Him remind me that HE was the one that gave me the position as a pawn; I would not have been a Pawn if it wasn't what He wanted.

I am involved in the High School group at my church and have a great group of girls in my small group. I am thrilled to see how God works in me this next year and excited to work through my plans for next summer!

I love to hear how you're all doing, so please (ladies!) continue to message me on Facebook and tell me how I can pray for you!

Blessings.

Feeding the Ducks

2011-10-25T15:01:00.000-07:00

Recently my wife and I shared a lunch sitting next to the Lake here at Hume. We started to feed some ducks with our leftovers and soon had between 20 and 30 ducks surrounding us. Pretty stinkin' awesome.

Thoughts from Maggie

2011-10-25T13:58:00.000-07:00

Well I am currently residing in Fresno and going o school at Fresno Pacific University. I am taking 17 units and working 2 jobs. Through this I have become incredibly stressed and God has shown me I need to rely on Him more. I know that I cannot do anything on my own strength, but His.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

Wildwood Teardown

2011-10-17T16:11:00.000-07:00

Evan here.

Every year I have the responsibility of taking down camp and storing it for the winter. This fall I had some of the students from Trinity Pres. and New Hope, both from Clovis, come up for a day to help. We wanted to take this responsibility to show you what it took to take down a tent.

Enjoy!

After Summer Thoughts from TC

2011-10-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

Hey people! The day camp ended is the day that I went home as well; for two days. The Tuesday after camp I drove to Portland, Oregon to attend Multnomah University where I will be finishing my Bachelors in Bible/Theology. The first three weeks that I was in Portland I was living out of a duffel bag on the floor of a friends apartment trying to find a place to live. God is good, no? Two weeks ago now I was offered and accepted an Internship at a place called SkateChurch. I make videos and keep up with the social networking. It has been amazing to see how God has been providing up here. Since being in Portland I have truly had to put into practice what God taught me over summer. He is in control and I need to trust Him fully with my life and the craziness that ensues. I miss the Wood dearly and pray that everyone is pressing on toward the goal! freespiritforever

After Summer Thoughts from Erin Todd

2011-10-03T14:10:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! As Wildwood wrapped up this summer, I moved all the way to down to main camp! Woo hoo! I am still at Hume Lake counseling for Spiritual Emphasis camps and teaching for our Outdoor Education program. Our Spiritual Emphasis camps are for Christian High Schools and Middle Schools. We combine some awesome elements from Wildwood (like our GI's and solo time) and other great elements from Ponderosa Summer Camp (like heaps of Gospel presentations and Rec). Today I was reflecting on the great number of students whose souls God has entrusted me with! What an amazing privilege it has been to take students out of their busy lives and really dig into their heart issues. I can never get tired of seeing students take one more step closer to the Lord. On the weekends I'm enjoying hanging out with my old Wildwood family members Dallas, Ryan, and Jesse who still live at Hume. I am loving the autumn colors and the restful peace God has provided during this season. Dallas and I sneak down the hill for Pumpkin Spice Lattes too;) Thanks for all of you who keep in touch and have shared with me how God has been working in and through you since Wildwood. Those stories are such an encouragement to me and make me love my job even more. Hope you all are well!

Wildwood Updates

2011-09-26T20:09:00.000-07:00

Hey all,
I'm pleased to announce the beginning of Wildwood's weekly blog updates. My plan is to make at least one post each week on every Monday (hopefully not too great an aspiration). These posts will vary from photos of camp to random videos, possibly some short messages, and even information on camp next summer. Also, keep an eye out as we may be opening up a contest for a 2012 T-shirt design. For right now, enjoy this photo of a spider we found during Wildwood tear down this fall.
--Evan

The Kitchen Is Also Really Good For Dancing; Obviously

2011-07-31T19:40:00.000-07:00

Some Photos From The Beginning

2011-07-30T16:30:00.000-07:00

It's Like A Belated Birthday

2011-07-30T16:17:00.000-07:00

The blog has been lacking, but there will be a wealth of bloggage in the coming week.
...stay tuned

How We Learned to "Hike In"

2011-07-30T15:10:00.000-07:00

It was a long hike so we had to entertain ourselves.

TC Foster

2011-07-30T15:03:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! T.C. here, and I'm so stoked to be on staff at Wildwood this year! Here's a little about me; I grew up in Thousand Oaks, California and yes I surf, skate and snowboard. The last few years have been crazy to say the least. I graduated the Joshua program in 2009, finished my general ed. this past semester and am planning on transferring to Multnomah University in Portland, Oregon this fall. Apart from skating, surfing and snowboarding, I love reading, adventuring, and experiencing God through His creation. Also I love sour candy, dress socks, and really good music!

Jesse Mase

2011-07-30T14:53:00.000-07:00

"The ridiculously amazing things that I have seen God do through Hume Ministries excites me to no end, plain and simple. That being said, my name is Jesse, I just finished the second year of my M.Div. and I am thrilled serving as a Pawn at Wildwood this summer! Like Zech, I too am an MK who spent my early childhood in Papua New Guinea, with the latter portion of life being a blend of the mid-west (Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois), west-coast (SLO) and finally east coast (Foothills of SC).
Designing/Building/Making any and everything is a huge hobby of mine; lately I have been investing in building a house, loads of furniture, lamps, et al. As an aside, I work halftime as the program director for IMPACT at ReWiGo Ministries and live to help people cross the bridge between a head knowledge of religion and a heart love for God.
Randomness: Oyster crackers and saltines are a quick and easy way to my heart, just sayin'. By and large, Ovaltine is grossly undervalued. I write extremely small and have been told that means I am stingy...so there's that... Cribbage and Scrabble are my favorite uses of game time. I call trail mix "candy" and will eat inordinate amounts of it whenever possible, specifically if it has berries and/or Cashews (The king of nuts)."

Maggie Murray

2011-05-26T01:13:00.000-07:00

My name is Maggie Murray. I am going to be a Junior at Fresno Pacific University this upcoming year, majoring in Liberal Studies to become am elementary teacher. My favorite sport to play is water polo, favorite sport to watch is football, go Seattle Seahawks! My favorite candy is either skittles or a payday depending on my mood. I enjoy the outdoors and being active and just having fun. My favorite verse is Psalm 51:10-12 "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and uphold me with thy free spirit.

David Elliot

2011-05-24T23:46:00.000-07:00

Hey guys my name is David Elliott. I grew up loving sports and God. Last year i graduated from the Joshua program, and am currently going to Eternity Bible college. I love worship, and have been working towards playing the guitar for the last few years, and after many grueling hours of practice have gotten no closer to being able to play! lol I make beenies just for kicks and giggles, and if you like volleyball we can be good friends! My favorite candies are snickers, and sour patch kids. Can’t wait to meet you all and "Heads up...be ready for some intense bike rides, crazy war ball tournaments, and a closer walk with God"

Samantha Littlefield

2011-05-18T17:53:00.000-07:00

Hey Wildwood campers! I'm Samantha and I am STOKED to be coming back for another summer at Wildwood. I am from the wonderful town of Turlock and am currently working on becoming an Elementary School teacher through a local State University. I love the rain, good books to cuddle up with, Israel, and mexican food. In my free time over the summer, I like to chase off bears that come into camp. My favorite candy is Peanut Butter M&M's. See you all in the wood!

Dallas Wells

2011-05-16T16:10:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Dallas and I am so excited to be a part of Wildwood this summer! I grew up in Southern California with my Dad, Mom, and younger brother. I spend my time reading in coffee shops with soy vanilla lattes, hiking, singing, and playing the guitar. I love hummus, the rain, traveling, the color green, and anything with peanut butter. Seriously, anything. One day I hope to represent humanitarian organizations that are working to spread the Gospel, live in a town with more trees than pavement, and have my own garden.

Avienne Berdan

2011-05-02T09:53:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! My name is Avienne and I am extremely excited to be coming back for my second summer at Wildwood. I'm from the San Francisco Bay Area where I studied at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and more recently I got the awesome privilege of living at Hume to be a part of the Joshua Wilderness Institute. A few loves of mine are eating sushi after a nice long hike, eating sushi while spending quality time with friends and family, eating sushi then going to live music shows, eating sushi then soaking up the sun, driving in the rain then eating sushi. I am passionate about people, raisenettes (great source of antioxidents), shoes, and spreading the wonderful love of Christ! Looking forward to seeing you all this summer!

Ryan Millar

2011-04-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! I’m Ryan and this will be my second summer at Wildwood. I am originally from Atascadero, CA, but am quite familiar with Hume, having gone through the Joshua Wilderness Institute. I love being outdoors and spending quality time with good friends. A few of my favorite things: beach adventures, road trips, good tunes, skittles, dancing, laughing, and more dancing. I am looking forward to getting to know you all this summer, and am praying in advance for your time at Wildwood. See you soon!

Erin Todd

2011-04-12T11:18:00.000-07:00

I’m Erin Todd, one of the cooks at Wildwood this summer. I am a San Diego native. Most of my growing up was spent in school, dance studios, and church youth group. I attended the University of Arizona for University where I received my degree in Plant Sciences. This past year I lived in Australia, working for Campus Crusade for Christ, mostly training students in natural evangelism. I enjoy nature, especially the ocean and flowers! I love tea, food, (and candy-Gummies & Jelly Bellies), and stalk cooking blogs frequently. It’s my desire to see others fall in love with the Lord and recognize His love for us. I'm excited to meet and serve you all this summer! :)

Katy Nicholas

2011-03-26T10:57:00.000-07:00

Hi! My name is Katy Nicholas. I am so excited to be joining the Wildwood staff this summer. I have worked at Hume the past four summers with various jobs. I am from Simi Valley, CA. I graduated from Azusa Pacific University in December of 2010 with a degree in Liberal Studies (Elementary Education). I enjoy baking, making things that I see in magazines, pink nail polish, and mango frozen yogurt with gummy bears on top (can you really ever be too old for gummy bears?)

Zech Kramm

2011-03-22T10:21:00.000-07:00

My name is Zech Kramm, I grew up in Cambodia and Thailand, as a missionary kid, and have a passion to keep growing in my relationship with Jesus Christ. My favorite color is green, or orange, or yellow. My favorite animals are the mountain-lion and the narwhal. I also really enjoy sports (especially soccer).Most of all, I’m supper stoked to get to know you guys this summer, and see what God has in store for all of us this summer, it’s gonna be gnarly. :)

Wildwood 2011 Theme

2011-03-13T15:46:00.000-07:00

This year's theme is called "Ginosko Theos." It's a Greek phrase that means "Know God." As we seek to be people after God's own heart, we must be people who know God. So we're asking a simple question, do you know God?

The scripture we're committing to memory this year is 1Corinthians 15. It's pretty long, so get started now.

Keep checking back as we'll be updating you on what's coming this summer, introducing our staff for this year, as well as posting some fun videos.

Feed the Birds

2010-07-01T12:55:00.001-07:00

Feed the Birds from Evan Griffin on Vimeo.

The 2010 Petting Zoo

2010-06-22T23:47:00.001-07:00

Untitled from Evan Griffin on Vimeo.

Setting Up Camp

2010-05-29T02:03:00.000-07:00

Tent Set Up from Evan Griffin on Vimeo.

Zach

2010-05-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

My name is Zach Way. I live in a small town named Orcutt in the central coast. I am finishing up my AA right now at a small community college. After which I will pursue my BA in Speech Communication with a minor in Biblical Studies. I am a youth pastor intern at my church where I lead a small group/lead worship/teach for our youth group. In my free time I love traveling, climbing, scooter-ing, hiking, and playing music... and eating candy (double-stuff oreos+sourpatch watermelons=happy day). Some interesting things about me are, I am an ISO 10,000.4 certified micro assembly technician, and I once got liposuction on my hand, and I have caught three puffer-fish in the Caribbean Sea. I am looking forward to working this summer! Its going to be amazing, and I have been and will continue praying for all of you and that God would be working in my life, so I can pour into yours.

Samantha

2010-05-19T21:23:00.000-07:00

Hello Wildwood friends! My name is Samantha Littlefield and I am going to be working at Wildwood this summer as a cook. I came to Wildwood as a camper all throughout high school and I am so excited to have the opportunity to work at the place that had such an impact on my walk with God. I am from the wonderful town of Turlock, California, and I graduated high school in 2009. I’ve been a Christian for the past seven years and I am in the process of strengthening my relationship with God and learning how to give him everything. Currently I am in the Joshua Wilderness Institute and am living life without television or music for another month and a half… Wildwood is actually the place where God revealed to me that he wanted me to come to Joshua! I love spending time with friends, reading insightful books, singing off key and sharing the love of our amazing and indescribable God. It will be great hanging out this summer, see you in the kitchen!

Karissa

2010-05-17T21:51:00.000-07:00

Hey I'm Karissa! I have the amazing opportunity to cook at Wildwood this summer. I am so excited to learn and grow with you! I grew up in Tracy, CA then moved to Sonora, CA when I was 11. I graduated from high school in December of 2006 and I have taken 3 years of college. I am majoring in nursing and love serving in the medical field. I became a Christian when I was a young child but I didn't really start living for the Lord and truly being a follower of Christ until 2 years ago. I enjoy naps, movies with popcorn and Hot Tamales, swimming, and reading.

Avienne

2010-05-12T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hey hey hey, my name is Avienne! Wondering how to pronounce that? Try ah-v-yen (It's a hard one)! Wildwood 2010 is going to be a blast, I look forward to an amazing time of getting to know all of you! Can't wait for all of the fun, but most of all being a part of the incredible work God will be doing in your lives! Be ready to challenge yourself, for adventures with fellow believers, and growing deeper as a follower of Christ! See you this Summer!

Jacob

2010-05-10T17:32:00.000-07:00

Hey, my name is Jacob Wieland and I'm from Tulare, CA. I'm excited for this summer as well as getting to know all of you campers. My favorite snacks are Hot Cheetos and BabyRuth candy bars. My favorite things to do are soccer, play guitar, and ride my dirt bike. My favorite quote is "Be the moon" and I can tell you why if you ask. If you're excited about this summer as much as I am then you will definitely have a blast!

Emily

2010-05-05T16:38:00.000-07:00

Hi! My name is Emily Jennifer Kahalaomapuana Akina, but you can just call me Em. Every summer I travel from afar to make it up to Hume--a whole hour and a half from Fresno! Next semester I will be a senior at Fresno Pacific University and finishing up a major in
English and a minor in Math--all so that I can teach pimply junior highers. :) Yes, I love them and I also love doing youth ministry. This is my fourth summer working at Hume and I'm absolutely stoked about spending it at Wildwood!
And just in case you aren't impressed, here are the top 5 reasons why I am qualified to be your pawn...
1. I could pitch my own tent by the age of 8.
2. I love pizookie and can't dance so you'll have fun watching me on Pizookie night.
3. I WATCHED a kung fu class...twice...and so I can protect you from bears.
4. I am easily frightened by the dark, so I will always have a flashlight.
5. I love Wildwood and I love God even more...that's a great combination!

Josh

2010-05-03T21:29:00.000-07:00

My name is Joshua Micah Coffey. I am graduating from Biola University in May with a degree in Biblical Studies. I enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities, especially fishing and adventuring. I grew up in Lake Arrowhead California in a family of six kids or which I am the fourth. I like to travel. I have been to Israel, Kenya and different parts of Europe. I hope to go into full time ministry wherever God places me.

Hilary

2010-04-27T23:42:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! My name is Hilary and I will be joining the Wildwood staff for my second summer. I'm very excited to have the opportunity to be involved in this camp again, it is very close to my heart. For those of you I had the opportunity of meeting last summer, I'm very excited to see you all again. Just in case you're interested to know, I like raw almonds, red grapes, all colors that look like wildflowers, and first and foremost God. Can't wait to see you all this summer!

Paul

2010-04-26T22:13:00.000-07:00

Hey campers my name is Paul and I am a returning pawn at Wildwood. I have been coming to Hume Lake for 20 years and been working here for the past 3 years. I am a graduate of the Joshua Wilderness Institute 06-07 class. In my free time I enjoy catching things and maintaining the Wildwood Petting Zoo. I also like to build forts, go on adventures, and off-road in the mountains. My favorite candies are Mike and Ike’s, Sour Patch things, and Take 5. I am super excited for summer, not only to see all you returning campers, but the first timers as well. I hope after reading all this stuff about me you won’t be afraid to talk and hang out with me and all the other staff. We’ll see you there!

Kelly

2010-04-22T07:35:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! I’m Kelly and I am SO excited to be coming back to Wildwood and to hang out with all of you campers. When you see me this summer I will have just graduated from Biola University (crazy!) where I have been studying Sociology, education and the Bible. It’s been an amazing 4 years and I am so thankful for it! I grew up in Ventura, CA and love any time I get to spend in the outdoors. This past year I have been learning so much about trusting God's plans for my life instead of my own and have been challenged with this almost every single day. A few of my favorite things right now are: drinking coffee with friends, music, chocolate chip cookies, sour patch watermelons, goldfish crackers, playing games/cards, reading Harry Potter, purple, rainy days, and of course--summers at Wildwood :). So excited to see you soon!

David

2010-04-20T14:29:00.000-07:00

David Higgins

For those of you who don’t know me already my name is David Matthew Higgins, for those of you that do, I’m sorry ;). This May I will graduate from Biola University with a Bachelors in Fine Art with an emphasis in drawing and painting. I will also graduate with a minor in Biblical studies. During this last school year I was heavily involved with coordinating social events at Biola. Since January I have been working at Forest Home doing videos for their Jr. High Winter Camps. I’m really looking forward to seeing all of you this summer and I can’t wait to see how God uses this camp in all our lives.

PS if you feel like blessing me this summer with a “special treat” I love Trolli Bright Crawlers

Robbie

2010-04-14T17:21:00.000-07:00

I have been blessed to have already spent two summers at Wildwood though I missed the last one to travel around the U.S. with a friend. I am glad to be back and am really excited to see what God does in our lives this summer. I currently live in San Diego and have been working and serving at my church called LifeBridge Church. I also spent some of my last year doing ministry with Hume in both Thailand and Kenya. I spend my time in San Diego leading worship, leading a small group of high school guys, and playing as much music as I can with friends and by myself. Even though I live in southern California I really can't surf well, so if anyone wants to teach me sometime I would love the lesson. Instead, i mostly enjoy days where I can watch my favorite movies, going swimming or hiking, or come up with something spontaneous to do with friends. Oh, I also have a fish named Glenn.

Evan

2010-04-12T16:29:00.000-07:00

Hey, I’m Evan and I’m the new director of Wildwood. Oddly enough, I grew up at Hume Lake, so it’s pretty awesome that I get to work here full time now. I also recently got engaged to a girl that some of you may know as she worked at Wildwood the last two summers. Her name is Bailey and we started dating Oct. 28^th ’09, got engaged Mar. 23^rd ’10, and are planning on getting married Jan 1^st ’11. So it’s been quite a year for me. Things I enjoy include sleep, telling jokes for my own benefit, playing guitar and singing when no one can hear me, Parmesan Goldfish, and more sleep. I’m looking forward to this summer and seeing what God has in store for us all.

Wildwood 2010 Theme

2010-04-07T15:03:00.000-07:00

This year's theme is called "Talmidim - Covered In the Dust of the Rabbi." Talmidim is a Hebrew word meaning "Disciple," and that's just what we'll be looking at. What did discipleship look like in Jesus' day? What does that mean for us today? And what does it mean to be a disciple anyway?

If you want to get a head start on your memorization for the year, we'll be working on John 15.

Wildwood Staff Wake Boarding Trip

2009-11-23T19:51:00.000-08:00

It took a while but here it is. All I can say is that it was a great trip and I can't wait until next summer.
-Rich

2009-11-06T23:46:00.000-08:00

This summer God slapped me in the face once again with this concept of obedience.
More than anything I desire to be a woman that seeks God's face in everything and with that, It requires obedience.
I've been battling it all summer, being obedient in things I don't necessarily want to do, and to be obedient when God changed my plans. I've been reading The Best of A.W Tozer and this certain chapter has rocked my thought life, and my relationship with Jesus.
The chapter is called "The marks of a spiritual man" It pretty much lists what I should be like as a follower of Christ. I haven't been able to stop thinking about it, and reflecting into my own heart, and thinking of the way i treat people.
These are the biggest things I have learned this summer:
I NEED:
To desire real holiness
To desire God's will for me- at any cost
To choose to obey christ, and choose to carry the cross
To see everything from God's viewpoint
To view this earth as something temporary
To see others better than myself
To make eternal judgements rather than time judgements.

I am really bad at all of this, but I'm on my knees that God will transform me.

Katy

2009-10-20T07:27:00.000-07:00

This summer has definitely been a time of growth for me (way more than I had expected, actually). I started out this summer being very excited about God taking me out of my comfort zone for an extended period of time. Little did I know how much time would be spent there. Over the last ten weeks I have had to learn (again) to rely on God's strength and energy to get me through. I'm not typically the type of person who volunteers to be a leader or constantly around other people, but somehow this is where God has placed me for now. As I get ready to move into another year of JWI, I am grateful for the opportunity I have had this summer to practice investing in other people's lives. I feel confident and thankful that all the lessons I've learned this summer (and will continue to learn) will give me the courage to be more willing to take myself out of my comfort zone and spend more time investing in people's lives.

Hilary

2009-10-13T11:31:00.000-07:00

This summer at Wildwood has been one of the best summers of my life. Something that God was really teaching me was how to be faithful in the small things. God reminded me of David's obedience as a Shepard and how in watching and protecting his flock he went from killing a bear and a lion, to defeating a giant on the battle field. So rather, than getting discouraged doing seemingly meaningless tasks I pray that I will become even more diligent in serving God in all that I do, with the knowledge that God is preparing me for his service in ways that are beyond my comprehension.
-David

2009-10-07T11:14:00.000-07:00

This summer, I feel like I have been challenged by SO MANY of the things
that I’ve challenged my campers with every week. One thing that has
specifically stuck out to me is actually the summer's theme of being
involved with missions. Every Monday morning I helped give a talk about
World Vision with the purpose of encouraging campers to be involved
through donations and prayer. As the summer progressed I was really
challenged to “practice what you preach” as I recognized my own lack of involvement with missions (especially with World Vision). I was hit with the realization of how little I was consistenly praying and giving to missions. One thing that challenged me the most was actually through a few campers asking me my opinion on how much money we should be giving as Christians. This is something I’ve already been wrestling with over the past year and this conversation really challenged me to think seriously about giving and spending at this point in my life. It’s been a huge realization of something I need to start changing and living out now. It was amazing that campers challenged me each week and to have been continually learning and growing alongside with them!

-kelly

Evan's thoughts from the summer.

2009-09-18T20:39:00.000-07:00

Yo yo, so this is what I’ve been learning this summer. It’s actually what I’ve been learning all year. I just noticed that often in my life, I treat my sin pretty flippantly. Usually it’s with smaller sins, I just think of them as though they weren’t a big deal and don’t really make any effort to stop them. And kind of in the back of my mind is the thought that God’s grace covers it anyway. Well, I realized that nothing about that is right. Certainly God’s grace does cover it, but that doesn’t justify my continued sin. In Romans 6 it says “What then, shall I go on sinning that grace may increase? May it never be!” Essentially the question is if I continue to sin, God can give me more grace, which gives him more glory. But it would be wrong to think of sin as a means to bring more glory. A better way to understand it is to look at Romans 5 where it says “For the wages of sin is death…” The fact is, every sin, whether we perceive it to be big or small, is worthy of death, hell, and eternal separation from God. Each one required Christ to die in order for us to have the opportunity of a right relationship with God. All that to say, sin is a big deal, whether it’s big or small. I don’t expect that I’ll ever live perfectly, and God’s grace covers my imperfection, but that is no excuse for me to simply give up on being faithful in the little things. Have a great year.

-Evan

Summer is over

2009-09-05T21:00:00.000-07:00

Hey guys its crazy that another summer has come and gone at Wildwood. I don't know about you guys but this summer was amazing. Even as the director I was encouraged and challenged throughout the summer concerning the idea of my heart and attitude breaking for the things that break God's heart. Truly my prayer for you guys this summer was that you would go home and begin to see the world around you differently as you are seeing it the way Jesus does. For the next few blog entires I will be posting many of the different things that the Wildwood Staff learned this summer. I hope these blogs encourage you and feel free to leave comments of what you are learning as well.

Take care
Rich

PS enjoy this amazing photo that we took on the last Friday night of camp

The Finner Things In Life

2009-08-19T23:18:00.000-07:00

Who says you can't eat outside, live in a tent and still not enjoy the finer things in life.

2009 Pizzookie Performance

2009-08-11T21:46:00.000-07:00

Well the summer has come to an end and after Saturday Wildwood will be done for the 2009 year. It has been fun so we thought we would post one of the Pizzookie performances from the summer. Keep checking in as we have a ton of other fun things from the summer that we will continue to post of the next few months.
-Wildwood Staff

The Sheep have come to Wildwood

2009-08-10T19:46:00.000-07:00

In the past all Kyle wanted was to work at Wildwood and have his very own sheep costume. Well unfortunately that never happened and his wish was never granted. Kyle I do hope you sleep better knowing that the sheep have finally arrived here at the Wood.
Later
-Wildwood Staff

A Cook Story

2009-08-10T17:45:00.000-07:00

Our cooks love working together and throughout the summer they have become good friends. Below is Ryan explaining what happened this summer in the kitchen as well as a video of his efforts to win Natalie over.
Enjoy
Wildwood Staff

A word from Ryan

"A Cook Story" the video

A visit from some old friends

2009-08-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

Well as we finished off week 9 a few old friends showed up to say hello and stay a few days at Wildwood. We had a great time hanging out with them and even captured a few fun video moments. Well enjoy
-Wildwood Staff

Crazy things near Wildwood

2009-08-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

When hanging around Wildwood you never know what you might run into. While on a hike with my family I came across this cool seen. It's not everyday you see this.
Enjoy
-Rich

Tortilla Slap

2009-07-31T18:18:00.000-07:00

Occasionally staff and campers get out of hand and need a good tortilla slap. As you can see from the video below a unruly crowd can be put in its place with a little bit of Tortilla discipline.
Enjoy and make sure not to get on our bad side or you just might get hit with a tortilla.
-Wildwood Staff

Staying Cool in the Fridge

2009-07-31T18:15:00.000-07:00

As you have heard by now it has been a hot summer. Because of this we reward our staff when they are good with some cool down time in the good old fridge.
Enjoy
-Wildwood Staff

Soda Grams

2009-07-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

Here at Wildwood we are all about encouragement. What better way to show someone how much you care then by sending them their very own soda gram.

Bob's Tractor

2009-07-17T17:17:00.000-07:00

Something crazy is happening in the lower pit. What exactly we can't say but here is a sneak preview.
Enjoy
-Wildwood Staff

College Wildwood Camp

2009-07-12T17:33:00.000-07:00

College camp came and went and it was amazing. We did a ton of fun stuff like caving, off roading, mountain biking, a trip to Buck Rock fire look out amongst other things. If you are going to be in college next year you should really think about coming.

Dancing under the stars

2009-07-12T16:49:00.000-07:00

You might wonder what goes on after you go to bed. Well the answer is a lot of things but this last week I, as the coolest boss ever, took my staff out for a little dance under the stars. There were many Christmas lights in the trees which made for an enchanted night of awkward time together. So go ahead and watch as we pretend to like to like being together.

The "Even Song" Reenactment

2009-07-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

During week one a few guys fell in love with Kelly Hughes. On Friday night they had Bryan help them rewrite the "Even Song" so they could profess their undying love. Unfortunately we were unable to video tape that performance so we reenact it every week for the campers. Below is a video from one of the reenactment weeks
Enjoy
-Wildwood Staff

Pinnacle Hand Sanitizer

2009-07-11T13:28:00.000-07:00

By now you all know if you have been to Wildwood that Pinnacle Hand sanitizer kills 99.9% of germs. But want you may not have known is all the other useful ways Pinnacle Hand Sanitizer can be used. Watch as Bailey demonstrates how this useful product is changing the way we live at Wildwood.
Later
-Wildwood Staff

Pirates Cave

2009-07-11T13:24:00.000-07:00

This week was College Wildwood so we did a bunch of extra fun stuff. One of those was a trip into Kings Canyon.
Enjoy
-Wildwood Staff

College Wildwood is underway

2009-07-06T22:08:00.000-07:00

Hey the very first College Wildwood is underway and you should keep checking the site to see all the fun stuff we are doing that you cant do during high school camp. In the meantime you should check out Wildwood staffs new favorite website as we love shredded wheat and this site is all about that. Here you go http://thepalaceoflight.com/
Later
Wildwood Staff

Trama at Wildwood

2009-07-03T18:42:00.000-07:00

This year Natalie and Mallory found a book and got on a bit of a health kick. While we are all eating better and I am sure that is a good thing in the long run, our morale is down. Healthy eating destroys the soul so please send candy, junk food and anything else that wouldn’t be in their health book
Thanks
-A majority of the Wildwood Staff
PS some of the crazys would like you to send them organic food

Petting Zoo Catastrophe

2009-07-03T18:34:00.000-07:00

Some times bad things happen and sometimes we have to come up with ways to fix those bad things.

What do you miss most about Robbie and Kyle

2009-06-26T17:17:00.001-07:00

Campers keep asking us as to the whereabouts of Robbie and Kyle. Well they are not here this year but we do miss them. All that to say we decided to ask campers what they miss most about them. To the right side of the blog is a poll so you can vote as well. Take care
-Wildwood Staff

Wildwood Petting Zoo

2009-06-26T17:12:00.000-07:00

Just another fun option you have while at Wildwood. That's right we like you that much that we keep trying to find fun things for you to enjoy.
Later
-Wildwood Staff

The Kelly Song

2009-06-19T18:18:00.001-07:00

During the summer there are always campers who, how do we say it, well sort of have a crush on some of the staff. This past week a few guys from Cornerstone Church in Chandler Arizona had a little thing for one of our girl pawns named Kelly Hughes. As a way to profess their undying love they decided to ask Bryan Valko (our worship leader)to help them write a song to show their feelings. Unfortunately we were unable to capture the original performance on video but the video below is still entertaining non the less.
Enjoy
-Wildwood Staff

Summer Came To Wildwood

2009-06-19T18:15:00.000-07:00

Last week it was crazy cold and then all of a sudden the sun came out and made it feel like summer once again.

Important Message

2009-06-12T17:10:00.000-07:00

Here is an important message from our lifeguard Anton. Make sure you pay attention as you will be required to know this information this summer.
Thanks
-Wildwood Staff

It's cold outside

2009-06-12T17:02:00.000-07:00

It's been really cold these past few days at Wildwood and believe it or not the fridge is warmer then being outside at night. Check out this video.

Pizzookie Practice

2009-05-28T22:46:00.000-07:00

That's right we are well into putting together another unforgettable Pizzookie experience. Here is a glimpse of some of the fun to come. Remember this is just practice but we thought you might enjoy a little sneak peak.

Meet David Higgins

2009-05-25T10:13:00.000-07:00

My name is David Matthew Higgins. I live in Anaheim, California and I am
heading into my senior year at Biola University. I’m studying Fine Art with
an emphasis in drawing and painting. In addition to pursuing my BFA I am
only two classes short of receiving my minor in Biblical Studies. These
last couple months I have been working for Biola on the AS staff helping
plan events for the student body. In my free time I like to watch movies
and go to Disneyland with friends. I’m really looking forward to seeing God
reveal his plan for this summer. You all will be in my prayers, and I hope
you will pray for me too.

Oh, and if you feel God leading you to bring some sort of delicious treat
my way, anything with the Trolli name on it is good in my book.

A message from Evan

2009-05-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

Summer is almost here check out the video of things getting set up. Also make sure you read through the bios of the different staff members to get to know them as well as what kind of candy they like. We would also encourage you to check back often as we will be posting a lot more now that the summer is almost here.
-Evan

Meet Paul

2009-05-18T14:41:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! My name is Paul Dixon and I will be one of the Wildwood Pawns for this summer. I have been working at Hume for the last three years and graduated from Joshua Wilderness Institute in 06-07. Some of the things you will see me doing up at Wildwood this summer is looking for critters, building forts, and hanging in the kitchen. I’m excited to be a part of the Wildwood staff and I am looking forward to hanging out with all of you.

Favorite color: GREEN
Favorite artists: Bryan Valko, OneRepublic, Coldplay
Favorite candy: Reeses Peanut Butter Cups
Favorite animal: Snakes

Meet Ryan

2009-05-18T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! My name is Ryan Millar and I will be working as a Wildwood cook this summer. I am from Atascadero, CA and I just finished my 08-09 year as a student at Joshua Wilderness Institute. I enjoy playing guitar, tennis, and, most importantly, DANCING. I look forward to investing in student’s lives & having some crazy fun times in the kitchen! Maybe we can even find some time to ponder the tough questions of life, such as: are we human or are we dancer? See you all this summer!

Favorite color: cobalt blue
Favorite artists: Phil Wickham, Jon Foreman, Kristopher Stipech, and Bryan Valko
Favorite candy: Reeses Peanut Butter Cups
Favorite animal: Aslan

Getting to Know Kellie

2009-05-18T14:32:00.000-07:00

I am a student at Biola University where I'm studying Sociology, Bible,
and Education. My hometown is Ventura, CA which has given me a permanent
love for the beach and for wearing rainbow sandals. I am passionate about
people and about following Jesus. I love being outside and I recently
discovered a new interest in doing triathalons. I hope to impact people
with God's love through relationships in whatever it is that I end up
doing with my life.
Later
Kellie

Meet Katy

2009-03-26T20:35:00.000-07:00

Hi I'm Katy the lifeguard. I worked Wildwood summer 08 and am
extremely excited to come back for another summer. After working last
summer i taught aeronautics at science camp, moved to a new city,
traveled all around and visited friends and family, and got a really
great job at a surf and skate shop. I am really looking forward to
hanging out and spending some quality time with you all.. but most of
all I am looking forward to getting Popsicles brought to my guard
stand :)
Fun facts about me:

I love tigers
I love candy and belly flops.
I look forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones.
love,
lifeguard katy

Meet Scott Bair

2009-03-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

Hey my name is Scott Bair and I’m a student of the Joshua Wilderness Institute at Hume Lake. I love hanging out with friends, going on adventures, bike rides, heights, paintball or airsoft, learning new things, playing or listening to music and designing stuff. I have my own business where I design and print shirts and I love it. I also love hanging out at Wildwood! I’ve been a student 6 times and I’m beyond stoked to be on staff. All in all, there’s no combination of words on the back of a postcard… it’s better when we’re together!

Favorite animal:
Black lab or any kind of sweet taxidermic animal

Favorite place to be:
The beach or Wildwood

Favorite candy:
Sugar coated gummy worms

Favorite music artist:
Bryan Valko
(Or Jack Johnson)

Meet Natalie Turner

2009-03-26T20:25:00.000-07:00

Hi my name is Natalie and this is my second summer at Wildwood. Since last summer I had the opportunity to study in Israel for a semester. My passion is in understanding the Hebraic Roots of the Bible. I am currently working and taking online classes through the American Institute for Advanced Biblical Studies in Arkansas. I love to share my passion with other people and am looking forward to a great summer!

Meet Bailey

2009-03-20T22:44:00.000-07:00

I'm excited for another fun summer at Wildwood. I can't wait to see all of you returning campers and meet new faces as well! This past year has been pretty busy. I've finally finished getting my B.A. in social scinece from CSU Stanislaus. Also, I spent my year making lots and lots of coffee at Starbucks, I make a killer extra dry cappuccino:)
God has been teaching me alot about patience and contentment this past year. I've been impatient to finnish school and figure out what to do with my life, but I am always reminded that God's plans for my life are so much better then my own and I need to wait on his timing. Right now I'm just impatient for summer to get here so I can head up to Hume!
Later
Bailey

Meet Bryan Valko

2009-03-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone! My name is Bryan Valko and I will be leading worship for Wildwood this summer. I just wrapped up the 2009 year of Joshua Wilderness Institute and look forward to working my first summer at Hume. You can find me hanging out by the pool, kicking around a soccer ball, or just spending time with people. I look forward to joining the Wildwood staff and seeing how God work’s in students lives this summer! Click here to listen to one of Bryan's songs

Favorite color: red
Favorite artists: Kristopher Stipech, Jon Foreman, and Lakes
Favorite candy: skittles
Favorite animal: dog

Getting to know Mallory

2009-03-17T21:37:00.000-07:00

What’s up everyone! My name’s Mallory and I am one of your Pawn’s for the summer. I grew up in Clovis and I’m 23 years old. This past year was crazy awesome as I just finished up the Joshua Wilderness Program. Before that I was living on an island, going to school, and running track for the University of Hawai’i. I graduated with a BA in Health and Wellness… Living both in Hawai’i and up at Hume has given me a passion for the outdoors and I love doing anything adventurous; if you think of it I am down for it!

Favorite Movie: Walk The Line
Favorite Food: Pepsi Freezes / Special K with Red Berries / Chips and Guacamole!
Favorite Artist: Rascal Flatts, Coldplay, and Bryan Valko ☺
Favorite Quote: The man who says he can and the man who says he can’t are both right. Which one are you?

Wildwood Promo Video

2008-12-15T22:38:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys check out the new Wildwood promo video. And just a reminder that we are running a College Wildwood Camp this year so if you are out of high school make sure you sign up.
Later
Rich

College Wildwood

2008-11-10T11:03:00.000-08:00

Just in case people are still checking this website I thought I would let you all know that for the first time ever we will be having a College Wildwood week. That's right all of you past Wildwood campers who have graduated now have a chance to come back and have some fun at the wood. The date is July 6th - 11th so give the Hume registrar office a call if you are intrested at 559 335-2000 ext 341
Later
Rich

Fire at Wildwood

2008-09-26T21:56:00.000-07:00

So a crazy thing happened the other day while I was taking down Wildwood. If it wasn’t traumatic enough to watch my beloved Wildwood kitchen tent get taken down for the year it was realizing that there was a fire just below the lower lawn. Here is the story, at about 10 am on Wed I all of a sudden saw smoke rising from just below the lower lawn. I immediately ran down the path that you guys all hike coming into Wildwood from loggers flat and just about 5 minutes down that path I looked up the mountain to see it on fire. I couldn’t believe it, and me and one of our head guys from the maintenance department began climbing the mountain to see how bad it was. When we got to the top we were out of breath and realized this was not a good situation. We quickly radioed for help and began using our hands to dig a fire line and tried to stop it from spreading. The flames put off a lot of heat and as the underbrush burned it would begin heating up and just igniting entire trees that would light up like torches. After a lot of praying and doing what we could with our hands some Hume support services guys as well as maintenance guys showed up with shovels and rakes and we began to cut a bigger fire line. The scary thing was that we knew there was no way to get water to the location so we began praying for a miracle. One by one other fire crews from the near by area arrived and everyone began working to stop the fire from spreading by cutting down trees as the fire was beginning to climb into the treetops. When things seemed like they were out of control I heard a loud engine sound and someone yell duck as a water tanker helicopter dropped its payload from the sky. I know you are not supposed to look up but I couldn’t help it and what I saw was the most beautiful sight as water gracefully fell from the sky and then slammed onto the fire as well as us. That’s right it was water from heaven. There is a lot more I could tell you but the truth of the matter is that God was there and his hand was evident as things that could only be considered miracles took place. The fire is now out and Wildwood is safe but ask me to tell you the stories of the miracles when you come to Wildwood and I will gladly retell them to you around a fire that is in one of our fire pits.
God is Good
Rich

A Sad Video

2008-08-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

So here is one of the saddest things you will ever see...... That's right there aren't many things that are more sad then seeing a Wildwood tent taken down for the winter. In case you are wondering how it works we made you a little time-laps video. Try not to cry to much.
Later
Rich, Baliey, Kari and Livi (the only remaining staff at WW)

Help Wanted

2008-08-23T23:44:00.000-07:00

The Bike Ride

2008-08-22T10:44:00.001-07:00

So when you all leave Wildwood we get a chance to go do some fun stuff when no campers are around. I have been mountain biking all summer so I decided to take some of the remaining staff on a little adventure. Below is a brief look at some of the fun.
-Rich

Andy's List

2008-08-21T23:57:00.000-07:00

As summer ended Andy realized there were a lot of things that he wanted to do that he had yet to try. After thinking about it for a while he made himself a list of things that he wanted to accomplish before the rapture. The video below is an attempt to check a few of those things off of his list.

Thoughts from Kari

2008-08-20T22:18:00.001-07:00

I'm a person who loves familiarity–familiar faces, familiar places, familiar sights and sounds. It's one of my very favorite things about working several summers at Wildwood: all of YOU familiar friends I get to see again and again, and all the stories I get to hear about what God's been doing in your lives in the past year. And as yet another summer comes to a close, I find myself looking forward to going back to the familiarity of home and everyone I've been missing these past 3 months. I love familiarity. Yet as I reflect back on this summer and year in general, the thoughts of familiarity kind of freaks me out too. It's SO easy for me to get comfortable in a familiar place, to just coast through my days and not really put my all in or get all I could out. It's something I've battled with myself over this summer, and something that I know I'll have to watch out for when I head home again. I DON'T want to get stuck, DON'T want to just watch my days go by with nothing noteworthy happening. I want to reject passivity, want to be used by God, want to invest in people, want to GROW. This is my prayer as I prepare to head down the mountain, and I hope it's yours as you jump back into the familiarity of your life, too.
Last week after hearing a staff member's testimony, one of my girls asked if she could share her own at the flagpole that day. She told me, "If God can use HER story in such a cool way to have an impact on people's lives, then it makes me wonder what he can do with mine–and I want to tell it to EVERYBODY!" I'm excited to see what God does this coming year as I do what I can to reject passively resting where it's familiar and instead live life boldly for God...keep me posted on what he does in yours, too, will you?

Pizzookie with the Stars

2008-08-14T10:38:00.000-07:00

The summer is over and it is time to say goodbye. It’s sad but starting Saturday the 16th camp will be over, we take down all of Wildwood and the staff head back to school.. It’s been a great summer so here is a little something sweet for you to remember the summer. Continue to check the website as we will try and occasionally post some fun stuff that we do.
Later
-Wildwood Staff

Pizzookie Contest Winner

2008-08-14T10:30:00.000-07:00

I am not sure how many of you knew but this year we ran a contest to see which church could come up with the best Pizzookie performance. When it was all said and done Crossroads Church from Turlock took the win with this amazing entry. Crossroads thanks for your hard work and your special conch will be shipping to you soon. Oh by the way all the staff says thanks for all the goodies that you guys sent us as well.
Until next time “May the Pizzookie be with you” (that was for all of you who are way to into star wars)
-Wildwood Staff

How to Tie a Bandana

2008-08-06T23:52:00.000-07:00

This is an instructional video by Kyle on how to tie a bandana on your wrist so you can be cool. For those of you who already know how to do this then great but for those who don’t this is your chance to learn how to be cool.
Looking out for your best interest
-Wildwood Staff