"I'm 50 years old and I like to KICK, STRETCH, and KICK! Cause, I'm 50!"

On Monday, August 18th, I turn 50 years old. And, if you haven’t seen Sally O’Malley on SNL, you are missing out. Search it right now and then come back.

(I 'may' have most recently created my own version named Glady's - she is a casino hopp'in gold digger though...)

One of my kids recently said, “Wow, 50… so your life is half over.” I replied, “How many people do you know who live to be 100?” After a pause, my daughter realized that life is actually short....

As I look ahead, I have no idea exactly what the next chapter will hold. Here’s what I do know, Shawn and I will always be doing ministry. Retirement is not on the table. We may not always get paid to do it, but we will always be about loving people and pointing them to Jesus.

That’s why this year, I am giving my birthday to something that means the world to me: Young Life in the Chelan Valley. And ironically, Chelan Young Life is celebrating 50 years this year!

I’ve served in various roles and places since 2010, but my Young Life story started long before that. In 1993, as a teenager, I walked into a Young Life club, and that night changed my life forever.

For nearly 13 years on staff, Shawn and I have been dressing up in ridiculous costumes, standing in the rain at football games, driving vans to camp, and doing whatever it takes so that every kid knows they are loved, valued, and never alone. In our area, we have incredible opportunities to share the Gospel with high school kids. But don’t let the postcard perfect lake and fancy summer homes fool you. Many of the students we serve come from hardworking families who farm your apples, cherries, and pears or spend long hours serving the people who visit Chelan. Behind the beauty is a real need, and it is a privilege to bring the hope of Jesus into their lives.

If you would like to join me in celebrating, I would be honored. No gifts for me..... just the mission that changed my life and continues to change the lives of kids today. Every gift will go to reaching kids and supporting our leaders here in the Chelan Valley. *Area #WA458

CLICK HERE TO SEE MY BIRTHDAY GIVING CAMPAIGN

And as I write this.... There is still so much to share with ministry. Click below to see our most recent area newsletter. And as always, continue to pray for us!

Camp at Canyon July 2025

PLEASE CLICK HERE TO READ OUR MOST RECENT NEWSLETTER

God Bless,

Michelle Carnes