The weekend of Halloween (or Halloween night itself) is always a busy time for my ministry.  Community parties, church event, trunk-or-treats, even adult events are often scheduled at this time.  Halloween 2022 was no different. Initially, I had four shows scheduled, then one was postponed, then another added.  Just another typical end of October schedule.

The first show of the weekend was supposed to be at a local health care center.  I had two different start times written on my two calendars, so I called to see which was correct.  As it turned out, there had been a change in activities coordinators  (their third since the summer) and the old scheduled had not been passed on to the newest one. She was quick to reschedule the show, but that day wasn't do-able for her.

That left three church shows at two very special churches.  Saturday night I was at the Bridgton Alliance Church, where we attended as a family for many years.  They were having their annual harvest party for families in the town.  I did a half hour set, and I must say, it ws awful.  I have been dealing with what seems to be a pinched cyatic nerve, and my juggling was a mess. I know I'm my biggest critic, and some things went well, but it was really the magic that carried the show.  The best thing I can say is, even though I knew I could do better, I didn't get discouraged with my lackluster performance.  This is not always the case.

The next day I was at Windham Assembly of God, the church that houses the school where I work.  I was scheduled to do both the morning and evening children services, but when  I arrived, the head pastor asked if I'd do a little sometihng in the main service first.  I only did one routine: the lost coin- so I don't know if I'd call it a fourth show or not.  I do know that adults from that service still talk about it when I see them around the school.  The fact that I vanished a $100 bill from someone in the congregation might be what makes it so memorable.

There was a good turn out for the first kids service, and I went a full hour.  I juggled better, but still not at the level I like.  The evening service saw only four in the audience, but the relaxed atmosphere was really kind of fun.  One 2nd grader was at both shows.  The next day her mom approached me in the school parking lot to ask if I taught private juggling lessons.  It seems her daughter enjoyed the shows so much she wants to learn to juggle so she can tell people about Jesus.  Although I had to tell her I didn't really have tim eto do this, I was encouraged by the impact my shows must have had on little Danielle.