So 2006 is coming to a close. It was a good year, my first full year at CIY and a year of learning, celebrating and a year where Ang and I learned a lot. The manchild is older and wiser, funnier and wittier. In a matter of days he'll be a big brother. Crazy.
I'm currently hanging out in the Lou at Urbana. It's an enormous missions conference down that the Edward Jones Dome. Over 22,00 people are here. Lots of good workshops, some great thoughts and a funny interaction between Rick Warren and his wife. Tonight the good pastor is preaching and he promised to "pull out all the stops" which I find intersting. Being in the midst of this many college students has been exciting, encouraging and its made me feel old. There are some pretty smart people out there and I heard one of my favorite sermons of all time, and it was by a smart, smart lady. Crazy. I've also picked up a couple cool new books. They are over on my what I'm reading section. They've got me thinking.....
Other than that I'm looking forward to returning home to my family tomorrow night to ring in the new year. After that summer is just around the corner so I guess we should start finishing those details.
Happy New Year to you and yours.
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Friday, December 22, 2006
Mormons in Las Vegas
Yes, the Ducks played horrible. I have recieved numerous emails, calls and even a text message of either "support" or criticism. And I am eliminated from winning the office pool because I chose to live or die with the Ducks. I died. Here's some pictures ( I like the stiff arm--nice work defense and a few of my favorite headlines.
BYU rocks Oregon in Las Vegas bowl
Cleaned Out In Vegas
Oh and I think its time we fire the coach. His assistants made us good, he needs to go.
Treehugger Post #106
Album Currently Playing: No Sir, Nihilism Is Dead by Showbread
Song Currently Playing: Matthias Replaces Judas
If you have $.99 and 5 minutes you should check out this song. It comes on a recommendation from my buddy across the hall JoMo. I could fill 10 CD's with good music he's recommended. The Showbread album is not my usual taste but this song really caught my attention along with the fascinating words.
Segue
Speaking of fascinating words and recommendations from my buddy JoMo, you really need to read an article he brought to my attention by Bart Campolo. It is from the Journal of Student Ministries and it is entitled The Limits of God's Grace .
It led to an interesting discussion in our hallway and some thoughts in my own cavernous skull. BC has taken some serious heat for this article, understandably so. I recommend you sit down with a nice hot mug of Christmas Blend, put on some John Mayer and dive in. Unless you have no pulse I am quite certain you'll end up with some sort of an opinion.
Song Currently Playing: Matthias Replaces Judas
If you have $.99 and 5 minutes you should check out this song. It comes on a recommendation from my buddy across the hall JoMo. I could fill 10 CD's with good music he's recommended. The Showbread album is not my usual taste but this song really caught my attention along with the fascinating words.
Segue
Speaking of fascinating words and recommendations from my buddy JoMo, you really need to read an article he brought to my attention by Bart Campolo. It is from the Journal of Student Ministries and it is entitled The Limits of God's Grace .
It led to an interesting discussion in our hallway and some thoughts in my own cavernous skull. BC has taken some serious heat for this article, understandably so. I recommend you sit down with a nice hot mug of Christmas Blend, put on some John Mayer and dive in. Unless you have no pulse I am quite certain you'll end up with some sort of an opinion.
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
I Finally Shaved
Yes, I am once again bald. I have a theory that I'm allergic to hair now.
Currently Listening To: As/Is: Cleveland/Cincinnati, OH by John Mayer
First off, Ret, I tried to leave a comment on your blog today but was unable to for some odd reason. I deeply apologize for my failure. I feel horribly. Awful in fact.
Ang and I watched Talledega Nights while Ang wrapped Christmas presents last night. His sons-Walker and Texas Ranger (TR) are worth it.
I guess I don't have much else. I've been working on some stuff but its not ready for public boredom yet. In the meantime I wanted to thank you for coming to this here blog.
One thing I will highlight is my buddy Schaffner. I owe that guy a lot and I'm so excited for what God's called him to do. It's called the Tampa Project. You should check it out. You should support it.
Merry Christmas. I'm sure I'll post again but in case you don't read it or something.
Currently Listening To: As/Is: Cleveland/Cincinnati, OH by John Mayer
First off, Ret, I tried to leave a comment on your blog today but was unable to for some odd reason. I deeply apologize for my failure. I feel horribly. Awful in fact.
Ang and I watched Talledega Nights while Ang wrapped Christmas presents last night. His sons-Walker and Texas Ranger (TR) are worth it.
I guess I don't have much else. I've been working on some stuff but its not ready for public boredom yet. In the meantime I wanted to thank you for coming to this here blog.
One thing I will highlight is my buddy Schaffner. I owe that guy a lot and I'm so excited for what God's called him to do. It's called the Tampa Project. You should check it out. You should support it.
Merry Christmas. I'm sure I'll post again but in case you don't read it or something.
Monday, December 18, 2006
A Picture Is Worth.....
While in Quincy last week we had a good friend of the family take some pictures of us--especially my lovely wife and the soon arriving new baby. Laura has got some mad skills at this stuff and I'm amazed at how it all turned out. If you click on Keane on the side bar over there
<---- you'll be able to see for yourself. I know we have a beautiful family and all :) but she made us look even better. And yes, I have ruined all our Christmas photos by growing my hair and a beard. Ho ho ho.
<---- you'll be able to see for yourself. I know we have a beautiful family and all :) but she made us look even better. And yes, I have ruined all our Christmas photos by growing my hair and a beard. Ho ho ho.
Friday, December 08, 2006
One More Quote
I was at Starbucks this afternoon getting my new favorite drink of the week- A cup of Christmas Blend Coffee- when I ran into a guy I respect and know enough that we speak when we run into each other which seems to be at Starbucks. He asked what I was reading (I had a book in my hand) and we talked. Among the number of insightful and thought provoking things he said to me was this self admission.
"We need more of our pastors to be theologians."
I agree.
Technorati Profile
"We need more of our pastors to be theologians."
I agree.
Technorati Profile
Currently It's 9 Degrees Outside
Thought I'd throw out some things I've been chewing on that don't amount to an actual post but might spark something in you.
1. Words
For the past week or so I've been wrestling with the difference between fearlessness and foolishness when it comes to making decisions. It's been spurred on by 1 Samuel 13 and I keep wondering if the end result really determines the answer.
Numchucks- no real deep thought here, I just laugh everytime I hear or read the word. I've found others do to, especially when I use it in random ways.
2. Quotes
In regards to our ministries:
"The church will allow you to prostitute yourself. We need to run as fast as our character is deepening, not as fast as our talent is expanding." -Erwin McManus
In regards to growth,numerical goals, etc.:
"All living things grow if they are healthy." -Rick Warren
In regards to love and service:
"Love at a distance doesn't work. We can only love when we are in relationship." -Chris Seay
In regards to giving our best:
"Great is the enemy of the best." -Rob Bell
3. Song Lyrics
From: The Sun and The Moon by Mae
"wasted time.
i can not say that i was ready for this.
but when worlds collide,
and all that i have is all that i want.
the words seem to flow and
the thoughts they keep running.
and all that i have is yours.
all that i am is yours."
4. I watched Oprah
I've found it humorous how when I simply say I watched Oprah I get a lot of odd looks from people. However, when I tell them it was because John Mayer was performing live I seem to get back some of my manpride.
So it is Friday. Enjoy your weekend.
1. Words
For the past week or so I've been wrestling with the difference between fearlessness and foolishness when it comes to making decisions. It's been spurred on by 1 Samuel 13 and I keep wondering if the end result really determines the answer.
Numchucks- no real deep thought here, I just laugh everytime I hear or read the word. I've found others do to, especially when I use it in random ways.
2. Quotes
In regards to our ministries:
"The church will allow you to prostitute yourself. We need to run as fast as our character is deepening, not as fast as our talent is expanding." -Erwin McManus
In regards to growth,numerical goals, etc.:
"All living things grow if they are healthy." -Rick Warren
In regards to love and service:
"Love at a distance doesn't work. We can only love when we are in relationship." -Chris Seay
In regards to giving our best:
"Great is the enemy of the best." -Rob Bell
3. Song Lyrics
From: The Sun and The Moon by Mae
"wasted time.
i can not say that i was ready for this.
but when worlds collide,
and all that i have is all that i want.
the words seem to flow and
the thoughts they keep running.
and all that i have is yours.
all that i am is yours."
4. I watched Oprah
I've found it humorous how when I simply say I watched Oprah I get a lot of odd looks from people. However, when I tell them it was because John Mayer was performing live I seem to get back some of my manpride.
So it is Friday. Enjoy your weekend.
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Servanthood
I finished up a devo/lesson thingy on servanthood that minus some editing will be used by some of the students preparing to do a mission trip with us. It's written to that audience but I thought I'd share it here. It's a little long so there's your warning.
Pre-Trip Lesson #3 - Servanthood
What are the first few things that come to mind when you think about being a servant? If you are like me you think about some gross tasks, some difficult circumstances and some embarrassing situations. Few people aspire to one day become a servant. For many of us, we think of gaining more prestige, of ascending the ladder of success and ultimately of being in a position of power. To dream of being a servant would be seen by many as foolish. To end up as some ones servant would be humiliating, a failure.
What tasks come to mind when you think of being a servant? My guess is you are thinking of things that you might be willing to do on a mission trip but not necessarily during your normal everyday life. Why is it that you and I are more willing to do new things, eat weird foods and serve in difficult ways on a mission trip and not on a daily basis?
I was reading a few months back about the difference between serving and being a servant. The point was made that when you merely serve you hold back control and maintain your ability to be hurt or offended. However, when you become a servant it means humiliation and a total opening of yourself to the other person.
Jesus gave the ultimate example of being a servant when he came to earth. His servanthood left him exposed and open to hurt, offense and ultimately rejection. But his example was so powerful that even those killing him took notice.
Take a few minutes to read a couple of passages. One is Matthew 20:20-28. Pay attention to the last few verses where Jesus reminds everyone of his true reason for coming to earth. After that flip over to Matthew 27: 27-54 and relive that moment of ultimate servanthood.
Becoming a servant is not about a trip, it is about a lifestyle. It is easy for any of us to hold it all together on a 10 or 16 or even 30 day trip. Just by sheer will we can be a lot of things for a while. The really impressive thing to me is the person who is a servant every day. It is the person who is a missionary where they live, who cares about people in their neighborhood or at their school with the same heart and passion they display for a couple weeks during the summer.
Ultimately, being a servant is a daily thing. It is an attitude that is with you from the moment you wake up until the moment you go to sleep. In Luke 9:23 the challenge from Jesus is simple to say, difficult to live out. “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Being a servant means that each day we deny ourselves and follow the call of God.
One of the biggest obstacles to a life of servanthood is our own wants and desires. We want objects, respect, and admiration. Each day we spend our waking moments thinking about how to get what we want. Our selfish desires cause us to miss out on the needs of others. When given a choice between satisfying what we want and caring for the other person we look to our own needs first.
Before we go any further, take a few moments to read Philippians 2:1-11.
There are a few truths we can draw from this passage. First, the heart of a servant is to be like Christ. It is to have a heart for unity and for corporate health instead of personal happiness.
Second, a servant thinks of others as better than themselves. It means not doing anything for selfish reasons, or because it personally benefits you. It also means you have a humble attitude. This humility leads us to not just say but really believe that everybody matters, everybody is special. It means our actions are not motivated by our own conceited opinion of ourselves.
Often this “vain conceit” that Paul speaks about becomes a roadblock to our life of service. We begin to think we are too important for a specific task. We see certain tasks as something “they” do while our skills are best suited for this other task which often ends up being something with a bigger stage or brighter lights. It ought to be true that great leaders are also great servants.
I heard a story recently about a friend of mine Tony. He’s the preaching pastor at a local church and they were having a men’s breakfast which required the set up and tear down of chairs and tables. It was noted that though Tony was there to teach and offer spiritual encouragement to the men, he also took the time to set up and tear down. If he had only been there to serve, he would have done his part and left. But because he is a servant, he did whatever was necessary even if it took more time or he ended up hot and sweaty.
Third, we are encouraged to look out not only for our own interests but also for the interests of others. When you notice the needs of those around you and are moved to action, you are becoming a servant to others. There is a huge difference between that attitude and simply showing up to do something nice for someone. Knowing the interests of others and caring for them takes time and investment.
At the end of the day the words from a Bob Dylan song are true, you “Gotta serve somebody.” Either our heartbeat is to serve God or ourselves. When our motivation is to serve God, it affects how we think, what we do and say, where we go and every part of our life. It affects whether we care about others or simply ourselves.
Right now you are preparing for a life changing trip. You will see and do things you will never forget. You will have an amazing opportunity to serve people on every step of this journey but please don’t wait until you step off that plane to be a servant. Your mission trip starts now. Servanthood isn’t an attribute you turn on and off, it needs to be who you are, something that is woven into the very fabric of your life.
The challenge is a simple one. Strive to be a servant and not simply to serve. Make it a part of your lifestyle and not just something you do when it is convenient. There will be times on this trip when you are tired, scared or homesick. There might be times when you do not want to eat the food, talk to that person or teach that lesson another time. But in the midst of all those things, you need to choose to deny yourself and be a servant. You need to remember that their eternity is more important than your constant comfort.
So before you answer the following questions, I would like to offer you a blessing from Peter. May these words encourage and challenge us all. May they become the driving force behind you and may your mission trip change the world and ultimately the landscape of eternity. May you be the servant God is calling you to be.
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
I Peter 4:8-11
Pre-Trip Lesson #3 - Servanthood
What are the first few things that come to mind when you think about being a servant? If you are like me you think about some gross tasks, some difficult circumstances and some embarrassing situations. Few people aspire to one day become a servant. For many of us, we think of gaining more prestige, of ascending the ladder of success and ultimately of being in a position of power. To dream of being a servant would be seen by many as foolish. To end up as some ones servant would be humiliating, a failure.
What tasks come to mind when you think of being a servant? My guess is you are thinking of things that you might be willing to do on a mission trip but not necessarily during your normal everyday life. Why is it that you and I are more willing to do new things, eat weird foods and serve in difficult ways on a mission trip and not on a daily basis?
I was reading a few months back about the difference between serving and being a servant. The point was made that when you merely serve you hold back control and maintain your ability to be hurt or offended. However, when you become a servant it means humiliation and a total opening of yourself to the other person.
Jesus gave the ultimate example of being a servant when he came to earth. His servanthood left him exposed and open to hurt, offense and ultimately rejection. But his example was so powerful that even those killing him took notice.
Take a few minutes to read a couple of passages. One is Matthew 20:20-28. Pay attention to the last few verses where Jesus reminds everyone of his true reason for coming to earth. After that flip over to Matthew 27: 27-54 and relive that moment of ultimate servanthood.
Becoming a servant is not about a trip, it is about a lifestyle. It is easy for any of us to hold it all together on a 10 or 16 or even 30 day trip. Just by sheer will we can be a lot of things for a while. The really impressive thing to me is the person who is a servant every day. It is the person who is a missionary where they live, who cares about people in their neighborhood or at their school with the same heart and passion they display for a couple weeks during the summer.
Ultimately, being a servant is a daily thing. It is an attitude that is with you from the moment you wake up until the moment you go to sleep. In Luke 9:23 the challenge from Jesus is simple to say, difficult to live out. “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Being a servant means that each day we deny ourselves and follow the call of God.
One of the biggest obstacles to a life of servanthood is our own wants and desires. We want objects, respect, and admiration. Each day we spend our waking moments thinking about how to get what we want. Our selfish desires cause us to miss out on the needs of others. When given a choice between satisfying what we want and caring for the other person we look to our own needs first.
Before we go any further, take a few moments to read Philippians 2:1-11.
There are a few truths we can draw from this passage. First, the heart of a servant is to be like Christ. It is to have a heart for unity and for corporate health instead of personal happiness.
Second, a servant thinks of others as better than themselves. It means not doing anything for selfish reasons, or because it personally benefits you. It also means you have a humble attitude. This humility leads us to not just say but really believe that everybody matters, everybody is special. It means our actions are not motivated by our own conceited opinion of ourselves.
Often this “vain conceit” that Paul speaks about becomes a roadblock to our life of service. We begin to think we are too important for a specific task. We see certain tasks as something “they” do while our skills are best suited for this other task which often ends up being something with a bigger stage or brighter lights. It ought to be true that great leaders are also great servants.
I heard a story recently about a friend of mine Tony. He’s the preaching pastor at a local church and they were having a men’s breakfast which required the set up and tear down of chairs and tables. It was noted that though Tony was there to teach and offer spiritual encouragement to the men, he also took the time to set up and tear down. If he had only been there to serve, he would have done his part and left. But because he is a servant, he did whatever was necessary even if it took more time or he ended up hot and sweaty.
Third, we are encouraged to look out not only for our own interests but also for the interests of others. When you notice the needs of those around you and are moved to action, you are becoming a servant to others. There is a huge difference between that attitude and simply showing up to do something nice for someone. Knowing the interests of others and caring for them takes time and investment.
At the end of the day the words from a Bob Dylan song are true, you “Gotta serve somebody.” Either our heartbeat is to serve God or ourselves. When our motivation is to serve God, it affects how we think, what we do and say, where we go and every part of our life. It affects whether we care about others or simply ourselves.
Right now you are preparing for a life changing trip. You will see and do things you will never forget. You will have an amazing opportunity to serve people on every step of this journey but please don’t wait until you step off that plane to be a servant. Your mission trip starts now. Servanthood isn’t an attribute you turn on and off, it needs to be who you are, something that is woven into the very fabric of your life.
The challenge is a simple one. Strive to be a servant and not simply to serve. Make it a part of your lifestyle and not just something you do when it is convenient. There will be times on this trip when you are tired, scared or homesick. There might be times when you do not want to eat the food, talk to that person or teach that lesson another time. But in the midst of all those things, you need to choose to deny yourself and be a servant. You need to remember that their eternity is more important than your constant comfort.
So before you answer the following questions, I would like to offer you a blessing from Peter. May these words encourage and challenge us all. May they become the driving force behind you and may your mission trip change the world and ultimately the landscape of eternity. May you be the servant God is calling you to be.
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
I Peter 4:8-11
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Big Chain
Album Currently Playing: The Essential Neil Diamond
Song Currently Filling the Air: I am….I said
Part of the adventure of Tulsa last week was braving the airport parking lot. I’m sure it’s a special challenge to try (operative word) to clean the thing up. With all the snow and ice and cars there for a long time there were a number of cars snowed into the parking lot. Some from the piles of snow and some from poor choices. It was pretty much dangerous in the lot but one experience has stuck with me.
When I first got there I realized a flight or two had come in before Ang and there were a number of people trying to leave. Unfortunately for them they were dressed in their Cole Hans and business suits and so that sweet little BMW just couldn’t get out of the snow. There ended up being a few people who got this novel idea to…help each other. They took turns pushing each other out and on my way into the terminal I participated in a couple of these resurrections. It was quite the joyous event.
Once I’d met up with my family I headed back out with the luggage to actually leave the parking lot and pull around to arrivals so they wouldn’t have to trek across the barren wasteland that was the parking lot.
On my way to the car I saw a girl who was alone and stuck. Here Civic had bottomed out and she was trying to get unstuck. To her credit (she used to live in Colorado) she had come prepared with a shovel, boards for under her tires, and a blanket in the back seat should she get stranded this close to civilization. I offered my assistance which proved the first time to be of no use. As she was finishing her second attempt to dig out some of the snow and I was positioning the boards a second time (this time actually under the front wheels) a nice gentleman pulled up in his huge Dodge truck. The conversation went a little something like this:
Dude: You guys need some help?
Me: Sure, we’re just getting ready to push again.
Dude: Oh, well for a small donation I’ll be happy to pull you out.
Me: What?
Me Inside: Enormous jerk say what?
Dude: I got a huge chain and I’ve been pulling people out all night for a donation.
Me: Well we were going to try and push one last time if you…
Dude: I’m gonna check and see if anybody else needs my help, I’ll circle around and if you are still here I’ll see what I can do.
Me:
Me Inside: WWJD kind of.
Needless to say our second try was successful partially fueled by my righteous anger. Once she was on her way she told me thanks to which I simply replied. No donation necessary.
It always amazes me at the things we'll do for money. Now, there was nothing wrong with what the guy was doing. There was nothing illegal, it was more the approach. When he first pulled up I was really impressed that some guy was driving around helping people, that quickly crumbled when I realized that he'd driven all the way to the airport to make a quick buck.
While I’m grumpy, I was driving through Joplin the other day when I happened upon a minivan with a really obnoxious sticker stragetically placed in the middle of the back window. It simply had a cross on each side and said in the middle clergy.
I am definitely not saying I’ve got this thing figured out but here are a couple ideas I’ve got. Quit feeling entitled and stop thinking what you’re offering is worth money. Maybe the simple kind act is enough. Maybe your actions should speak and not your bumper sticker. And maybe we should all remember that service often requires that we get out of our truck. Maybe I shouldn’t seem so grumpy. Time for some Crunchy Granola Suite—make me happy Neil.
Song Currently Filling the Air: I am….I said
Part of the adventure of Tulsa last week was braving the airport parking lot. I’m sure it’s a special challenge to try (operative word) to clean the thing up. With all the snow and ice and cars there for a long time there were a number of cars snowed into the parking lot. Some from the piles of snow and some from poor choices. It was pretty much dangerous in the lot but one experience has stuck with me.
When I first got there I realized a flight or two had come in before Ang and there were a number of people trying to leave. Unfortunately for them they were dressed in their Cole Hans and business suits and so that sweet little BMW just couldn’t get out of the snow. There ended up being a few people who got this novel idea to…help each other. They took turns pushing each other out and on my way into the terminal I participated in a couple of these resurrections. It was quite the joyous event.
Once I’d met up with my family I headed back out with the luggage to actually leave the parking lot and pull around to arrivals so they wouldn’t have to trek across the barren wasteland that was the parking lot.
On my way to the car I saw a girl who was alone and stuck. Here Civic had bottomed out and she was trying to get unstuck. To her credit (she used to live in Colorado) she had come prepared with a shovel, boards for under her tires, and a blanket in the back seat should she get stranded this close to civilization. I offered my assistance which proved the first time to be of no use. As she was finishing her second attempt to dig out some of the snow and I was positioning the boards a second time (this time actually under the front wheels) a nice gentleman pulled up in his huge Dodge truck. The conversation went a little something like this:
Dude: You guys need some help?
Me: Sure, we’re just getting ready to push again.
Dude: Oh, well for a small donation I’ll be happy to pull you out.
Me: What?
Me Inside: Enormous jerk say what?
Dude: I got a huge chain and I’ve been pulling people out all night for a donation.
Me: Well we were going to try and push one last time if you…
Dude: I’m gonna check and see if anybody else needs my help, I’ll circle around and if you are still here I’ll see what I can do.
Me:
Me Inside: WWJD kind of.
Needless to say our second try was successful partially fueled by my righteous anger. Once she was on her way she told me thanks to which I simply replied. No donation necessary.
It always amazes me at the things we'll do for money. Now, there was nothing wrong with what the guy was doing. There was nothing illegal, it was more the approach. When he first pulled up I was really impressed that some guy was driving around helping people, that quickly crumbled when I realized that he'd driven all the way to the airport to make a quick buck.
While I’m grumpy, I was driving through Joplin the other day when I happened upon a minivan with a really obnoxious sticker stragetically placed in the middle of the back window. It simply had a cross on each side and said in the middle clergy.
I am definitely not saying I’ve got this thing figured out but here are a couple ideas I’ve got. Quit feeling entitled and stop thinking what you’re offering is worth money. Maybe the simple kind act is enough. Maybe your actions should speak and not your bumper sticker. And maybe we should all remember that service often requires that we get out of our truck. Maybe I shouldn’t seem so grumpy. Time for some Crunchy Granola Suite—make me happy Neil.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
More Than A Cup of Coffee
Album Currently Playing: Eyes Open by Snow Patrol (it seemed appropriate)
Song: It’s Beginning to Get To Me
Last week I drove a lot. Between a retreat (remind me to tell you how good I am with a shot gun) and multiple trips to Tulsa to attempt to pick up Ang and Carter it was amazing. Each trip leaving Joplin consisted of the same routine—a swing by Starbucks to grab a venti gingerbread latte which is possibly my favorite drink right now.
Finally on Friday night their plane arrived and since the roads were primarily ice and certain destruction we decided to stay in a hotel. That was fun as we stayed in a really posh place so we could bring Luke in with us. We survived the night though and headed home on Saturday. Just as we crossed the Oklahoma-Missouri border, Carter informed us he was in need of a rest area. The first available option was a rest stop.
Now I don’t stop at rest stops often, most stops these days also allow us to get food, drink and fuel. So the rest stop is a lost stop on the American landscape for me. Something that helps me pass the miles (next rest stop 53 miles, etc). However growing up it was a favorite of my grandpa. I don’t know that I did a ton of trips with them but I remember enough to know that there wasn’t a long distance trip with the Hutchin’s that didn’t include a rest stop stop. So as I waited for Ang and Carter I walked the quiet oasis and remembered my past. Rest stops with Grandpa weren’t a place for relief, they were a part of the adventure. And the one thing that each of them had in common was him filling his thermos with coffee and buying me a hot chocolate. You know the hot cocoa that’s so hot you have to wait roughly 3 hours for it to be drinkable. My grandpa had a line for hot beverages which were his favorite “That was so hot it perked a second time on the way down.” Funny how things you’ve “forgotten” come back when you are in that element again. So I went inside and talked with the nice gentleman. I came out with a piping hot cup of coffee and a new map of Missouri. And a refreshed memory. I miss my grandpa. He was one of my first best friends and a guy who’s memories and personality sticks with me to this day. If you were to walk into my office you’d find his Bible right next to my desk. Never far and an anchor of my past and a stepping stone to my future. He’d have loved to ride with me in the summer. Little fix-its and repairs were his life after retirement.
So the rest stop provided me with a lot more that relief. It was like a mini-retreat. A pit stop on the interstate of life. And as we drove the rest of the way home I let the coffee remind me of something I’ll never forget again.
Song: It’s Beginning to Get To Me
Last week I drove a lot. Between a retreat (remind me to tell you how good I am with a shot gun) and multiple trips to Tulsa to attempt to pick up Ang and Carter it was amazing. Each trip leaving Joplin consisted of the same routine—a swing by Starbucks to grab a venti gingerbread latte which is possibly my favorite drink right now.
Finally on Friday night their plane arrived and since the roads were primarily ice and certain destruction we decided to stay in a hotel. That was fun as we stayed in a really posh place so we could bring Luke in with us. We survived the night though and headed home on Saturday. Just as we crossed the Oklahoma-Missouri border, Carter informed us he was in need of a rest area. The first available option was a rest stop.
Now I don’t stop at rest stops often, most stops these days also allow us to get food, drink and fuel. So the rest stop is a lost stop on the American landscape for me. Something that helps me pass the miles (next rest stop 53 miles, etc). However growing up it was a favorite of my grandpa. I don’t know that I did a ton of trips with them but I remember enough to know that there wasn’t a long distance trip with the Hutchin’s that didn’t include a rest stop stop. So as I waited for Ang and Carter I walked the quiet oasis and remembered my past. Rest stops with Grandpa weren’t a place for relief, they were a part of the adventure. And the one thing that each of them had in common was him filling his thermos with coffee and buying me a hot chocolate. You know the hot cocoa that’s so hot you have to wait roughly 3 hours for it to be drinkable. My grandpa had a line for hot beverages which were his favorite “That was so hot it perked a second time on the way down.” Funny how things you’ve “forgotten” come back when you are in that element again. So I went inside and talked with the nice gentleman. I came out with a piping hot cup of coffee and a new map of Missouri. And a refreshed memory. I miss my grandpa. He was one of my first best friends and a guy who’s memories and personality sticks with me to this day. If you were to walk into my office you’d find his Bible right next to my desk. Never far and an anchor of my past and a stepping stone to my future. He’d have loved to ride with me in the summer. Little fix-its and repairs were his life after retirement.
So the rest stop provided me with a lot more that relief. It was like a mini-retreat. A pit stop on the interstate of life. And as we drove the rest of the way home I let the coffee remind me of something I’ll never forget again.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Thanksgiving and Threes
I’m at a retreat right now in the flatlands of Kansas. It is stormy, cold, wet and wonderful. We’re having a great time a couple of thoughts which I’ll share at a later time. Right now I wanted to update on a couple of other things.
First, Thanksgiving was amazing. We traveled home to Oregon, a place I miss and a place I feel so (ironically) at home in. The land of starbucks and trader joe’s and outdoors it was great. My biggest highlight was probably the late night dinner just me and Ang back in the Mexican restaurant we went to on our honeymoon enjoying the same meal, a phenomenal plate of nachos and thinking back over our 6+ years together. I am truly blessed.
Secondly was 2 nights ago. I went and watched a great “kid” Aaron Hill and his team play at Missouri Southern there in Joplin. They kicked tail, Aaron played great and it was fun to see how much he’s changed and yet how similar he is from his days at Canton High. His team has a great mix of talent and he is certainly more than a contributor. I wish I shoot just one three as smooth as he pulls the trigger. Other than the joy of watching him play, my other favorite part was sitting and listening to the MoSo fans scream at the refs. My opinion, maybe because the team I wanted to win did, they did a very fair and good job. My goodness though, those guys tried to stomp holes in the bleachers with their feet. Two of my favorite lines, delivered in true Missouri were. “He’s gonna need counseling because the boy molested him.” And the tried and true “Hey ref, go give your jersey back to foot locker.” My other favorite was a guy who let out a sigh/guttural groan every time they “finally” called a foul on Rockhurst. Quite nice.
So that’s a quick update on life. I’m hoping for lots of snow but after Ang and Carter fly back into Tulsa and we’re safely home for our 3 day weekend. Be warm and well fed.
First, Thanksgiving was amazing. We traveled home to Oregon, a place I miss and a place I feel so (ironically) at home in. The land of starbucks and trader joe’s and outdoors it was great. My biggest highlight was probably the late night dinner just me and Ang back in the Mexican restaurant we went to on our honeymoon enjoying the same meal, a phenomenal plate of nachos and thinking back over our 6+ years together. I am truly blessed.
Secondly was 2 nights ago. I went and watched a great “kid” Aaron Hill and his team play at Missouri Southern there in Joplin. They kicked tail, Aaron played great and it was fun to see how much he’s changed and yet how similar he is from his days at Canton High. His team has a great mix of talent and he is certainly more than a contributor. I wish I shoot just one three as smooth as he pulls the trigger. Other than the joy of watching him play, my other favorite part was sitting and listening to the MoSo fans scream at the refs. My opinion, maybe because the team I wanted to win did, they did a very fair and good job. My goodness though, those guys tried to stomp holes in the bleachers with their feet. Two of my favorite lines, delivered in true Missouri were. “He’s gonna need counseling because the boy molested him.” And the tried and true “Hey ref, go give your jersey back to foot locker.” My other favorite was a guy who let out a sigh/guttural groan every time they “finally” called a foul on Rockhurst. Quite nice.
So that’s a quick update on life. I’m hoping for lots of snow but after Ang and Carter fly back into Tulsa and we’re safely home for our 3 day weekend. Be warm and well fed.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
So I'm at the missionary convention. You know, the party with polyester and bell bottoms. Actually, it is full of amazing people. I'm looking forward to seeing old friends, seeing and hearing some amazing stuff and enjoying one of my 10 favorite towns, Indianapolis. Tonight it was a late night dinner at Hard Rock Cafe and an attempt to figure out the internet here at the hotel. My favorite moment of the day and then I move to bed:
I'm standing at our booth when a lady comes up and hands me a flyer. I must have given her one of my classic what the heck looks. Anyway she looks at me and in all seriousness she says to me: "It's for burned out missionaries." I'm gonna guess that means I looked burned out? She might want to work on her presentation, I slipped the flyer in someone else's book, maybe it will help them. Enjoy your weekend.
I'm standing at our booth when a lady comes up and hands me a flyer. I must have given her one of my classic what the heck looks. Anyway she looks at me and in all seriousness she says to me: "It's for burned out missionaries." I'm gonna guess that means I looked burned out? She might want to work on her presentation, I slipped the flyer in someone else's book, maybe it will help them. Enjoy your weekend.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Adverbs and Dangling Participles
Currently Listening: Skin and Bones by Foo Fighters
It’s cloudy, dark, rainy and beautiful. The last few days have been splendid, we had a great weekend and I’ve been able to spend some good time with the family. I wish there was more I could do to help Ang be comfortable, this new baby can’t come soon enough. Carter continues to amaze us, his little mind is pretty sharp and some of the stuff he says or in this case the incredible amount of food he has been eating is both inspiring and frightening. I’ve been wondering if we ought to find a competitive eating competition for 3 year olds.
I’ve been thinking about words lately. I’ve always been fascinated by them because there are so many that I remember. Whether they are statements made during a sermon, from a parent, from a friend. Some are encouraging, some discouraging. Some I don’t know why I remember them but I do, always. Some pop into my head in certain situations as little nuggets of wisdom. This summer when I’d be at a worksite I run through a checklist in my head of advice on how to do something from instructions given by someone.
I listened to the same sermon two times in a row. That’s rare for me. I rarely do that because I usually catch enough once or have a hard time going over it again. I listen to stuff way down the road—but this particular sermon was so good I wanted to hear what I’d missed the first time. I found myself laughing at the same parts, looking forward to how he delivered a certain line and enjoying the beauty of seeing how something was building towards the point.
I’m amazed how you can read the same words of scripture so many times and always find something new, how suddenly an insight jumps out that to this point you’ve avoided discovering.
When I preach I focus on words. Not always as much as I should. I sometimes put a word or phrase in there that I want everyone to hear. I’ve also been guilty of putting a line or phrase in there specifically for someone. I want them to hear that message loud and clear. What usually happens is they don’t, or they aren’t there to hear it.
Sometimes the words of encouragement nag at me in a good way. Why don’t you do this? When are you going to do that? Have you ever thought about this?
When I was in high school my best friend Knowah (he changed it from Noah) and I used to ride around in his ’82 Datsun. It was a beater, there are so many memories about that car including how he had the CD adapter that went in the tape deck and was propped up by a folded piece of paper that had to be just thick enough to keep the tape connected or else we’d lose the music. He was a CD freak—back before MP3 you just had to carry the CD. He always had the booklets as well and so as I was riding shot gun—I never had a car so I always rode, he always drove—I’d read through them. I will never forget that he always said if a CD came with the lyrics in the booklet, it was lame. All great CD’s kept an aura of mystery and if you could read the words, it meant the CD sucked. I laughed the other day because I realized almost all of my music sucks if put under than highly scientific and thorough lens.
I’m listening to the new Foo Fighters disk. It is amazing. It’s like an unplugged thing that actually shows their musical ability and highlights their skill and the **gasp** lyrics. The funny thing is there are a couple songs I now know the words too. For all this time I’ve liked it and not understood what they were saying.
It seems to me that in the desire to be cool, to be complex, to be edgy, we’ve buried the words, the actual thing we’re trying to communicate, underneath so much stuff that people walk away without that which we really wanted them to hear.
It’s cloudy, dark, rainy and beautiful. The last few days have been splendid, we had a great weekend and I’ve been able to spend some good time with the family. I wish there was more I could do to help Ang be comfortable, this new baby can’t come soon enough. Carter continues to amaze us, his little mind is pretty sharp and some of the stuff he says or in this case the incredible amount of food he has been eating is both inspiring and frightening. I’ve been wondering if we ought to find a competitive eating competition for 3 year olds.
I’ve been thinking about words lately. I’ve always been fascinated by them because there are so many that I remember. Whether they are statements made during a sermon, from a parent, from a friend. Some are encouraging, some discouraging. Some I don’t know why I remember them but I do, always. Some pop into my head in certain situations as little nuggets of wisdom. This summer when I’d be at a worksite I run through a checklist in my head of advice on how to do something from instructions given by someone.
I listened to the same sermon two times in a row. That’s rare for me. I rarely do that because I usually catch enough once or have a hard time going over it again. I listen to stuff way down the road—but this particular sermon was so good I wanted to hear what I’d missed the first time. I found myself laughing at the same parts, looking forward to how he delivered a certain line and enjoying the beauty of seeing how something was building towards the point.
I’m amazed how you can read the same words of scripture so many times and always find something new, how suddenly an insight jumps out that to this point you’ve avoided discovering.
When I preach I focus on words. Not always as much as I should. I sometimes put a word or phrase in there that I want everyone to hear. I’ve also been guilty of putting a line or phrase in there specifically for someone. I want them to hear that message loud and clear. What usually happens is they don’t, or they aren’t there to hear it.
Sometimes the words of encouragement nag at me in a good way. Why don’t you do this? When are you going to do that? Have you ever thought about this?
When I was in high school my best friend Knowah (he changed it from Noah) and I used to ride around in his ’82 Datsun. It was a beater, there are so many memories about that car including how he had the CD adapter that went in the tape deck and was propped up by a folded piece of paper that had to be just thick enough to keep the tape connected or else we’d lose the music. He was a CD freak—back before MP3 you just had to carry the CD. He always had the booklets as well and so as I was riding shot gun—I never had a car so I always rode, he always drove—I’d read through them. I will never forget that he always said if a CD came with the lyrics in the booklet, it was lame. All great CD’s kept an aura of mystery and if you could read the words, it meant the CD sucked. I laughed the other day because I realized almost all of my music sucks if put under than highly scientific and thorough lens.
I’m listening to the new Foo Fighters disk. It is amazing. It’s like an unplugged thing that actually shows their musical ability and highlights their skill and the **gasp** lyrics. The funny thing is there are a couple songs I now know the words too. For all this time I’ve liked it and not understood what they were saying.
It seems to me that in the desire to be cool, to be complex, to be edgy, we’ve buried the words, the actual thing we’re trying to communicate, underneath so much stuff that people walk away without that which we really wanted them to hear.
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Throwdown
Currently Listening: Playlist entitled worship
Current Song: Over the Rainbow by Shawn McDonald
Let's talk about football. Seems like the right thing to do. BTW it was in the 80's here yesterday and will be again. Nice I guess. I did have to break out the Chaco's for a couple more days.
So last night it was #1 Webb City vs. #3 Carthage. Somewhat of a local rivalry. Except Webb always wins. And they did again. It leads to some fun and colorful conversations here in the hallways. I always side with the winner, that's just the kind of guy I am.
I also want to send congrats to my bud Doolin. His team won last night knocking off an undefeated team and moving into the state quarterfinals. He's a great coach and Matt and I went and watched his team last year, wish I could watch again.
For my friends in Quincy, there could be a state title game between Hannibal and Webb City--I think that would be fun.
The University of Miami had a player get shot and killed 2 days ago. That program is a mess and its really sad/scary. They were the ones just a couple weeks ago beating the other team with their helmets. Their defense of the problem is pathetic and their attitude is worse. Usually they've won which has kept people from saying too much. Now they lose a lot. So many of their guys go pro and they have always been successful but its sad to see it get to that point.
Finally, the Ducks play USC this weekend. If we lose, well, its more of the same. But if we win, I might just be obnoxious or something. Moreso that I already am I guess.
We have a Thanksgiving dinner for students at OCC tonight. I think it will be a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to carving some turkeys. I like electric knives, they seem dangerous or something.
If you have the time you should check out my buddy BJ's post on election day. I find it humorous. Church signs make me laugh.
Current Song: Over the Rainbow by Shawn McDonald
Let's talk about football. Seems like the right thing to do. BTW it was in the 80's here yesterday and will be again. Nice I guess. I did have to break out the Chaco's for a couple more days.
So last night it was #1 Webb City vs. #3 Carthage. Somewhat of a local rivalry. Except Webb always wins. And they did again. It leads to some fun and colorful conversations here in the hallways. I always side with the winner, that's just the kind of guy I am.
I also want to send congrats to my bud Doolin. His team won last night knocking off an undefeated team and moving into the state quarterfinals. He's a great coach and Matt and I went and watched his team last year, wish I could watch again.
For my friends in Quincy, there could be a state title game between Hannibal and Webb City--I think that would be fun.
The University of Miami had a player get shot and killed 2 days ago. That program is a mess and its really sad/scary. They were the ones just a couple weeks ago beating the other team with their helmets. Their defense of the problem is pathetic and their attitude is worse. Usually they've won which has kept people from saying too much. Now they lose a lot. So many of their guys go pro and they have always been successful but its sad to see it get to that point.
Finally, the Ducks play USC this weekend. If we lose, well, its more of the same. But if we win, I might just be obnoxious or something. Moreso that I already am I guess.
We have a Thanksgiving dinner for students at OCC tonight. I think it will be a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to carving some turkeys. I like electric knives, they seem dangerous or something.
If you have the time you should check out my buddy BJ's post on election day. I find it humorous. Church signs make me laugh.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
My Opinion
Currently Listening: My Playlist entitled Fall 2006
Current Song: The Ocean by Mae
I added two new people to my blocked email list today. Maybe its because I’ve been reading this book on advertising or maybe its just because I’m easily annoyed but those people who spam me should be hurt. It’s one thing on my yahoo account, its another when they get through to my CIY account. I’ve yet to receive an email on “that problem” in my email here but I’m sure it won’t be long. Ironically its not email spam that has me fired up today, its snail mail crap.
There is a company who I guess my predecessor used at one time to order (in my opinion) a cheap item that served a good purpose but also served to let them think we like them. Much like saying something nice to that kid at school suddenly confused them into thinking that you wanted to talk to them all the time. Anyway, the joke around here is that weekly—weekly—they mail me some free piece of crap. Sure, its disguised as a pen or pocket calendar. At one point I had over 35 of them in my desk—I gave them away to kids at spring break. Many of them were left behind on the floor when they left the room. Just yesterday this company mailed me 3 pieces of stuff. On the same day. The real kicker? 2 of them were the exact thing. Same name, same address, same crap on 3 of them. I bet they spend enough money to buy me 10 or 15 pounds of red vines each year on envelopes with little packages of nothing that I will never buy. Occasionally they call and I tell them I don’t want to date anymore, that we’re not even just friends, that I’m going to get a restraining order and yet there they are on my front porch each week.
There’s this other company, they sell videos. They call me each quarter with their new material for youth ministry. I kindly remind them I am not a youth minister in the traditional sense, that I don’t have a youth group and that if I were to show there stuff at my event I’d be breaking the law or something. They apologize and let me know they’ll make a note. Then I hear back from them 3 months later.
I was reading about how people respect advertising that respects them. That the highly annoying guy that asks the girl out every day till she says yes rarely succeeds. And the ones that do are not enough to base a business principle on. So maybe we in the church should stop acting that way too and figure out how to reach people where they are in a way they feel respected and in a format where we’ll actually get more out than Hey, I’m from First Christian……
Just a thought.
Current Song: The Ocean by Mae
I added two new people to my blocked email list today. Maybe its because I’ve been reading this book on advertising or maybe its just because I’m easily annoyed but those people who spam me should be hurt. It’s one thing on my yahoo account, its another when they get through to my CIY account. I’ve yet to receive an email on “that problem” in my email here but I’m sure it won’t be long. Ironically its not email spam that has me fired up today, its snail mail crap.
There is a company who I guess my predecessor used at one time to order (in my opinion) a cheap item that served a good purpose but also served to let them think we like them. Much like saying something nice to that kid at school suddenly confused them into thinking that you wanted to talk to them all the time. Anyway, the joke around here is that weekly—weekly—they mail me some free piece of crap. Sure, its disguised as a pen or pocket calendar. At one point I had over 35 of them in my desk—I gave them away to kids at spring break. Many of them were left behind on the floor when they left the room. Just yesterday this company mailed me 3 pieces of stuff. On the same day. The real kicker? 2 of them were the exact thing. Same name, same address, same crap on 3 of them. I bet they spend enough money to buy me 10 or 15 pounds of red vines each year on envelopes with little packages of nothing that I will never buy. Occasionally they call and I tell them I don’t want to date anymore, that we’re not even just friends, that I’m going to get a restraining order and yet there they are on my front porch each week.
There’s this other company, they sell videos. They call me each quarter with their new material for youth ministry. I kindly remind them I am not a youth minister in the traditional sense, that I don’t have a youth group and that if I were to show there stuff at my event I’d be breaking the law or something. They apologize and let me know they’ll make a note. Then I hear back from them 3 months later.
I was reading about how people respect advertising that respects them. That the highly annoying guy that asks the girl out every day till she says yes rarely succeeds. And the ones that do are not enough to base a business principle on. So maybe we in the church should stop acting that way too and figure out how to reach people where they are in a way they feel respected and in a format where we’ll actually get more out than Hey, I’m from First Christian……
Just a thought.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Tantrums of a Fuddrucker
Currently Listening: The Everglow by Mae
No, I didn't cuss in the title.
Somehow Joplin managed to find a restaurant not currently here and even cooler one that we would like. Fuddruckers. Ang has loved it for a long time and it has quickly become one of my favorites. Upon ,too much, evaluation I think its because you can determine the toppings on your burger and how much you want and the cheese sauce. Seriously, one can clog all or at least a majority of their arteries in just one sitting. Unfortunately for us the new Joplin locale is yet to get the amazing cheese dispenser.
So let me share first my reflections upon the meal and then possibly the deepest thought you’ve heard in some time.
I would like to spend an afternoon watching 2 things at Fuddruckers;
People determining which pop they want and then how to operate the machine which looks strangely like every other machine I’ve ever seen. One lady even said these words and I quote. “Go tell Harry this dumb place only has Diet Pepsi and not Diet Coke. Utterly ridiculous.”
People crafting their own burgers. Some do it with the precision and care of a spinal surgeon (or Doreen at a salad bar—if you’ve not seen this you must!) others go at it as thought this particular meal is either their first in weeks or possibly the food will begin to disappear if they don’t grab it soon.
Your parking lot should at least hold as many cars as your restaurant can people—there should be some sort of algebra problem for this. If I can figure out how long it took Tommy to get to Chicago on a train traveling 25 mph from Joliet while it took Terry twice as long at double the speed so what color was the hat of the conductor (okay, that made no sense, blame it on the semi-sweet sweet tea) then you can figure out how people don’t have to park 6 miles away—even though we parked in the front because my lovely wife is pregnant and if you don’t like it….I digress.
Finally, everybody should give you to go cups for a little more to drink when you eat in. It can’t cost them that much and it sure is nice. Plus you can stroll through the office with a cup and everybody knows you ate better than them.
Okay, I lied about the deep thought. Here’s the thought I had. Fuddruckers is amazing because they allow you to customize stuff. Some restaurants do it but they are the best in my opinion. It’s what makes Chipotle great even though they do it behind the counter—Fudd’s is amazing because I actually can take 3lbs of pickles back to my table if I so choose and if I can endure the odd looks from the staff that’s exactly what I’ll do. Seems like those of us in the church could put some effort into making a church experience more customizable. I know, its heresy. The spirit only speaks through one guy and in one message. I just wonder, if KS was more that way (Know Sweat, not Kansas—try to stick with me) I just wonder if church was more that way if people’d dig it. Not a customizable take what you want from theology—I’m not that liberal. Just wondering.
Oh, and my moleskine is on its way from Lexington as we speak. Soon we’ll be reunited.
No, I didn't cuss in the title.
Somehow Joplin managed to find a restaurant not currently here and even cooler one that we would like. Fuddruckers. Ang has loved it for a long time and it has quickly become one of my favorites. Upon ,too much, evaluation I think its because you can determine the toppings on your burger and how much you want and the cheese sauce. Seriously, one can clog all or at least a majority of their arteries in just one sitting. Unfortunately for us the new Joplin locale is yet to get the amazing cheese dispenser.
So let me share first my reflections upon the meal and then possibly the deepest thought you’ve heard in some time.
I would like to spend an afternoon watching 2 things at Fuddruckers;
People determining which pop they want and then how to operate the machine which looks strangely like every other machine I’ve ever seen. One lady even said these words and I quote. “Go tell Harry this dumb place only has Diet Pepsi and not Diet Coke. Utterly ridiculous.”
People crafting their own burgers. Some do it with the precision and care of a spinal surgeon (or Doreen at a salad bar—if you’ve not seen this you must!) others go at it as thought this particular meal is either their first in weeks or possibly the food will begin to disappear if they don’t grab it soon.
Your parking lot should at least hold as many cars as your restaurant can people—there should be some sort of algebra problem for this. If I can figure out how long it took Tommy to get to Chicago on a train traveling 25 mph from Joliet while it took Terry twice as long at double the speed so what color was the hat of the conductor (okay, that made no sense, blame it on the semi-sweet sweet tea) then you can figure out how people don’t have to park 6 miles away—even though we parked in the front because my lovely wife is pregnant and if you don’t like it….I digress.
Finally, everybody should give you to go cups for a little more to drink when you eat in. It can’t cost them that much and it sure is nice. Plus you can stroll through the office with a cup and everybody knows you ate better than them.
Okay, I lied about the deep thought. Here’s the thought I had. Fuddruckers is amazing because they allow you to customize stuff. Some restaurants do it but they are the best in my opinion. It’s what makes Chipotle great even though they do it behind the counter—Fudd’s is amazing because I actually can take 3lbs of pickles back to my table if I so choose and if I can endure the odd looks from the staff that’s exactly what I’ll do. Seems like those of us in the church could put some effort into making a church experience more customizable. I know, its heresy. The spirit only speaks through one guy and in one message. I just wonder, if KS was more that way (Know Sweat, not Kansas—try to stick with me) I just wonder if church was more that way if people’d dig it. Not a customizable take what you want from theology—I’m not that liberal. Just wondering.
Oh, and my moleskine is on its way from Lexington as we speak. Soon we’ll be reunited.
Answering My Own Question and A Visit from W
Currently Listening: Mighty To Save by Hillsong
In an answer to my earlier post I believe I am the answer. I managed to navigate the exciting O’Hare airport, complete with a delicious burger at Chili’s and a Green Tea Latte at Starbucks. The flight went well though I was tired and slept instead of finishing my book.
We landed in Arkansas (that was the actual plan) and I was walking through the terminal when a nice, short, bald gentleman asked me “Did you leave your jacket on the plane?”
I responded incredulously “No! It’s right here in my”
“Row 13 right? Black jacket?”.
My first thought was no way. It was quickly followed by a page over the airport.
Attention everyone who just landed with the American Airlines flight from Chicago, would the person who left a black North Face jacket on board…”
I’m the rookie. I do believe this was my most impressive display of incompetence on a trip possibly ever.
On another note, Ang had a small group girls night at the house when I got home so Carter and I headed to the OCC basketball game. It was the ambassadors rally which meant an extra amount of smelly high school kids. Turns out it was a big day here in Joplin –the President was here. So some kid at the game is wearing a huge sticker on his chest with the W and a red X through it. Nice.
So that’s my travels. Rest assured I’m no longer taking kids on youth group trips or anything where my capability might actually endanger others. I might let Ang drive next time we go somewhere though….
In an answer to my earlier post I believe I am the answer. I managed to navigate the exciting O’Hare airport, complete with a delicious burger at Chili’s and a Green Tea Latte at Starbucks. The flight went well though I was tired and slept instead of finishing my book.
We landed in Arkansas (that was the actual plan) and I was walking through the terminal when a nice, short, bald gentleman asked me “Did you leave your jacket on the plane?”
I responded incredulously “No! It’s right here in my”
“Row 13 right? Black jacket?”.
My first thought was no way. It was quickly followed by a page over the airport.
Attention everyone who just landed with the American Airlines flight from Chicago, would the person who left a black North Face jacket on board…”
I’m the rookie. I do believe this was my most impressive display of incompetence on a trip possibly ever.
On another note, Ang had a small group girls night at the house when I got home so Carter and I headed to the OCC basketball game. It was the ambassadors rally which meant an extra amount of smelly high school kids. Turns out it was a big day here in Joplin –the President was here. So some kid at the game is wearing a huge sticker on his chest with the W and a red X through it. Nice.
So that’s my travels. Rest assured I’m no longer taking kids on youth group trips or anything where my capability might actually endanger others. I might let Ang drive next time we go somewhere though….
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Who's The Rookie
When we were getting on our flight for Dallas yesterday a guy walked on the plane a little late and asked a guy in the row in front of me if he should put his stuff in the overhead bin. "You can if you want, I don't care." the guy said. Turns out the dude was flying for the first time in his life. I got to thinking about being a travel rookie, about my first flight when I was a little kid and how I take travel stuff for granted now, I don't even get excited to fly all that much anymore. That was before we landed.....
Just as we were taxiing at DFW, I was putting stuff in my bag when I realized I had something in there that I shouldn't. In fact it was scary I got it on the flight. Turns out I was packing my knife, the nice huge one I use all summer. I got it through the X-ray machine. Not cool.
We land at DFW and head to Starbucks. We get to the gate and they are boarding, I reach in my bag...and I've lost my boarding pass. It had slipped out of my bag so I had to ask for another one. I'm a dork but its not that bad I guess.
Today we were leaving Lexington and on our flight to Chicago when I reach in my bag for my journal.....and realize I left it in the rental car. Nice.
Other than that I think I've done pretty good on this trip. I've learned a lot, we've had some good conversations, I've journaled a lot, though now that journal is sitting at Budget Rent a Car and I feel naked without it. Now if I can just get back to Joplin without screwing anything else up.....
Just as we were taxiing at DFW, I was putting stuff in my bag when I realized I had something in there that I shouldn't. In fact it was scary I got it on the flight. Turns out I was packing my knife, the nice huge one I use all summer. I got it through the X-ray machine. Not cool.
We land at DFW and head to Starbucks. We get to the gate and they are boarding, I reach in my bag...and I've lost my boarding pass. It had slipped out of my bag so I had to ask for another one. I'm a dork but its not that bad I guess.
Today we were leaving Lexington and on our flight to Chicago when I reach in my bag for my journal.....and realize I left it in the rental car. Nice.
Other than that I think I've done pretty good on this trip. I've learned a lot, we've had some good conversations, I've journaled a lot, though now that journal is sitting at Budget Rent a Car and I feel naked without it. Now if I can just get back to Joplin without screwing anything else up.....
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
A little more
This will make more sense when you read the previous post but here goes:
Takeru Kobayashi raised the bar of athletic greatness yet again today, devouring 97 Krystals in 8 minutes in what was arguably the most impressive competitive eating feat of all time. In doing so, Kobayashi defended his title in the Krystal Square Off World Hamburger Eating Championship, which he has held since its inception in 2004...
Takeru Kobayashi raised the bar of athletic greatness yet again today, devouring 97 Krystals in 8 minutes in what was arguably the most impressive competitive eating feat of all time. In doing so, Kobayashi defended his title in the Krystal Square Off World Hamburger Eating Championship, which he has held since its inception in 2004...
Randoms
I've been up since 4 AM so if this doesn't make sense it's probably you.
Album Currently Playing: Possibilites by Herbie Hancock
Today its Lexington, Kentucky. I thought of some friends, the few I know who actually like Kentucky and said a prayer for them as I arrived. Maybe this year the hoops team won't implode again.
We're on a church tour, interviewing some guys we have a good relationship with, hoping to understand youth ministry and specifically middle school students better by the end. In the meantime its raining and as we all know, that makes me happy.
General reflection on Lexington--beautiful and very relaxed.
So Sunday I watched the world hamburger eating contest. Kobayashi was in it. You know, the dude who is the current hot dog and brat eating champion.The dude who it seems can eat his body weight in food. On Sunday he was looking to pull off the "triple crown".
The triple crown is usually reserved for actual accomplishments such as in horse racing (seems more interesting since I'm in Kentucky), baseball and is an actually amazing accomplishment. In eating, well, its not so amazing and frightening.
The shindig is put on by Krystals. They are the awful version of the White Castle burger. White Castle is sacred--reserved in the hall of fame of food with things like Slurpees, Red Vines and Oreos. I digress. Anyway, the fact you are eating belly busters--something the average person can barely keepa half dozen from immedately fast tracking through their intestinal system--is disturbing enough.
The give them 8 minutes to eat. They don't actually eat them--the dunk them in I think its lemonade that is the beverage of choice right now, and then they pretty much inhale the soggy mess of fat, sugar and whatever the patties are made of.
Kobayashi pulled off the ever elusive triple crown by beating a new college student who they are predicting could be his big rival. Kobster at 97 of them in 8 minutes.
Yes folks, 97. I saw it on ESPN. The fact that I watched this over the Chiefs game speaks to both my boredom and also my hatred for the Chiefs.
97 of anything in 8 minutes is dangerous. 97 greasy, liquid soaked Krystal burgers should be illegal.
It makes me wonder what we're actually capable of. I know people who are afraid to make phone calls, to confront an issue, to have the hard conversation-they say it is physcially impossible or will make them sick. If Kobayashi can inhale 97 nuggets of death you can do what you need to.
I've been kicking my own tail on being a wimp at times. I think I might find a pic of Kobayashi to serve as my inspiration. I'm off to eat dinner--probably just one of something.
PS:
Here's the actual website for the International Federation for Competitive Eating with the article. Enjoy--preferably a significant time before you will attempt to eat.
http://www.ifoce.com/
Album Currently Playing: Possibilites by Herbie Hancock
Today its Lexington, Kentucky. I thought of some friends, the few I know who actually like Kentucky and said a prayer for them as I arrived. Maybe this year the hoops team won't implode again.
We're on a church tour, interviewing some guys we have a good relationship with, hoping to understand youth ministry and specifically middle school students better by the end. In the meantime its raining and as we all know, that makes me happy.
General reflection on Lexington--beautiful and very relaxed.
So Sunday I watched the world hamburger eating contest. Kobayashi was in it. You know, the dude who is the current hot dog and brat eating champion.The dude who it seems can eat his body weight in food. On Sunday he was looking to pull off the "triple crown".
The triple crown is usually reserved for actual accomplishments such as in horse racing (seems more interesting since I'm in Kentucky), baseball and is an actually amazing accomplishment. In eating, well, its not so amazing and frightening.
The shindig is put on by Krystals. They are the awful version of the White Castle burger. White Castle is sacred--reserved in the hall of fame of food with things like Slurpees, Red Vines and Oreos. I digress. Anyway, the fact you are eating belly busters--something the average person can barely keepa half dozen from immedately fast tracking through their intestinal system--is disturbing enough.
The give them 8 minutes to eat. They don't actually eat them--the dunk them in I think its lemonade that is the beverage of choice right now, and then they pretty much inhale the soggy mess of fat, sugar and whatever the patties are made of.
Kobayashi pulled off the ever elusive triple crown by beating a new college student who they are predicting could be his big rival. Kobster at 97 of them in 8 minutes.
Yes folks, 97. I saw it on ESPN. The fact that I watched this over the Chiefs game speaks to both my boredom and also my hatred for the Chiefs.
97 of anything in 8 minutes is dangerous. 97 greasy, liquid soaked Krystal burgers should be illegal.
It makes me wonder what we're actually capable of. I know people who are afraid to make phone calls, to confront an issue, to have the hard conversation-they say it is physcially impossible or will make them sick. If Kobayashi can inhale 97 nuggets of death you can do what you need to.
I've been kicking my own tail on being a wimp at times. I think I might find a pic of Kobayashi to serve as my inspiration. I'm off to eat dinner--probably just one of something.
PS:
Here's the actual website for the International Federation for Competitive Eating with the article. Enjoy--preferably a significant time before you will attempt to eat.
http://www.ifoce.com/
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Where Did That Extra Hour of Sleep Go?
Album Currently Listening to: Possibilities by Herbie Hancock
The man child is a missionary.
A couple weeks ago I was on my trip to the chosen land of Colorado when Ang called with a funny story. Turns out I’d burned them a CD of their favorite music—it’s a mix of any number of things including some of Ang’s favorite worship stuff. Well, Carter man fell in love with the music, particularly with I am Free which is quite the catchy tune. The version we have is from Desperation Band which includes the typical long periods of worship leader talking points where they slow the song down and the dude supposedly makes the worship moment better.
Just about every morning my lovely wife and child and child to be head into the Y for a time of working out and for Carter a time to interact with other kids. I guess they have a guitar in the room and so at one point he grabs the guitar and begins to herd all the kids together. He begins to tell them that they are going to sing I am Free. In just a minute, we’re going to bring this song back up he says. We are going to sing about how God has set us free, we are going to sing with abandon and lift it up to Him, here we go.
One of the ladies in the Y goes to church and so she knew what he was doing and also what song he was referring to. I guess all the other little tikes stood there unsure what the heck had just hit them (don’t we all feel that way about worship leaders sometimes!!). So while Ang works out, my boy is beginning his first church plant.
Last night we were driving home from dinner and the all important trip to WalMart. Carter began the conversation with “Hey mom…”. A long, long pause followed. “John plays the drums, Jeff plays the drums and Moe plays the drums.” He had connected that our favorite drummer Mr. Mitchell, Jeff from the Wiggles and Moe from the Doodlebops all play the drums. Granted, that’s less that impressive company for our boy John but the connection was pretty good for the little fella and the impact a cool one for me.
I’ve joked many times that when I come back I want to be reincarnated as a worship leader. Maybe I won’t have to wait that long. For all their artistic quirks and hilarious personalities, the worship folks I’ve been blessed to work with have always been some of my favorite people on staff. They continue to be the people I have the best connections with after I move. It would be an honor for Carter to be “one of them.”
And in the meantime Ang and I will enjoy listening to the sweet little man with the cute voice belt out worship songs at random times, in random places and all the while marinate in the theology he can’t grasp yet (nor can we) but will serve him well all his years.
John, keep playing those drums, you’ve got another big fan.
The man child is a missionary.
A couple weeks ago I was on my trip to the chosen land of Colorado when Ang called with a funny story. Turns out I’d burned them a CD of their favorite music—it’s a mix of any number of things including some of Ang’s favorite worship stuff. Well, Carter man fell in love with the music, particularly with I am Free which is quite the catchy tune. The version we have is from Desperation Band which includes the typical long periods of worship leader talking points where they slow the song down and the dude supposedly makes the worship moment better.
Just about every morning my lovely wife and child and child to be head into the Y for a time of working out and for Carter a time to interact with other kids. I guess they have a guitar in the room and so at one point he grabs the guitar and begins to herd all the kids together. He begins to tell them that they are going to sing I am Free. In just a minute, we’re going to bring this song back up he says. We are going to sing about how God has set us free, we are going to sing with abandon and lift it up to Him, here we go.
One of the ladies in the Y goes to church and so she knew what he was doing and also what song he was referring to. I guess all the other little tikes stood there unsure what the heck had just hit them (don’t we all feel that way about worship leaders sometimes!!). So while Ang works out, my boy is beginning his first church plant.
Last night we were driving home from dinner and the all important trip to WalMart. Carter began the conversation with “Hey mom…”. A long, long pause followed. “John plays the drums, Jeff plays the drums and Moe plays the drums.” He had connected that our favorite drummer Mr. Mitchell, Jeff from the Wiggles and Moe from the Doodlebops all play the drums. Granted, that’s less that impressive company for our boy John but the connection was pretty good for the little fella and the impact a cool one for me.
I’ve joked many times that when I come back I want to be reincarnated as a worship leader. Maybe I won’t have to wait that long. For all their artistic quirks and hilarious personalities, the worship folks I’ve been blessed to work with have always been some of my favorite people on staff. They continue to be the people I have the best connections with after I move. It would be an honor for Carter to be “one of them.”
And in the meantime Ang and I will enjoy listening to the sweet little man with the cute voice belt out worship songs at random times, in random places and all the while marinate in the theology he can’t grasp yet (nor can we) but will serve him well all his years.
John, keep playing those drums, you’ve got another big fan.
Monday, October 30, 2006
A Little Known Fact
In the midst of a meeting today I pondered just how many Starbucks' there are in South Datoka. Why, I'm not sure but I wondered. The answer: 14. Most are located in a HyVee but still, even folks in the SD like them some Starbucks. Wonder what the most popular drink there is....
Another Shot
Album Currently Filling My Ears: the Everglow by Mae
Cubs Win!
Yeah right. How ‘bout them Cards?! I confess that as a huge fan it was incredibly difficult to not watch game 5. But I also know I’ll always remember what I was doing when Inge made that sweet breeze with the final out.
This weekend we traveled to Dallas to help out with Believe. Seeing as Believe is a Friday and Saturday deal we were busy making it happen Friday as the game was played. However, thanks to technology we were able to keep up. I was running a camera for the night but was kept updated by text messages from my amazing wife who along with Carter were watching and stressing. The following really became intense around the7th inning so I missed out on the “we’re losing” and “how the heck is Casey hitting us so well?” thoughts.
Believe got over in time for the bottom of the ninth and thus entered the second technology—live stat tracking on the web. One of the interns had purchased wireless there at the convention center so a few of us huddled around the laptop to “watch” the last inning. When the final strike was thrown, we celebrated as you’d expect. Cards fans who grew up all over, a group many of us probably wouldn’t have been with other than Believe bringing us together and there we were on the floor of the arena celebrating, hugging, making fun of Cubs fans everywhere.
It was a great yet strange way to celebrate—the legend of the victory feeling oddly disconnected because we had no images to compare it to. I guess in some odd way it was like those farmers and small town fans who’ve followed the Cards for years huddling around their radios to hear of a World Series victory and allowing their minds to fill in the images that a TV can’t provide. Once back at the hotel ESPN was flipped on and though the images helped fill something in there was just something about smiling and imagining what was happening in the New Busch and celebrating with friends. It was a cool way to celebrate a World Series win and a time I’ll not soon forget.
Other things from the weekend that struck me. During set up for the weekend it was pointed out that I at the ripe old age of 30 was the oldest person there. Crazy. An amazing event reaching thousands of middle school students and the oldest person there until the actual event was 30. They are blessed with some incredible college students and staff that make the event something to behold.
All in all, the weekend was great. It was great to be at a Believe again, it was fun to see middle school ministry like that again. I saw some old friends, made some new ones and realized just how powerful the weekend can be/is. I’m looking forward to being at a few in the spring and in some bigger venues to see the energy that those extra little souls can generate. You should check it out. If you work with middle schoolers, you should go. You should take them. They’d be better for the experience.
One final note, I was reading this weekend and there was an old reference made to ICQ. I had totally forgot about ICQ. I remember “back in the day” when kids would sit for hours on that bad boy. It was the thing to do, so important to social survival and growth and maturity for a student. And now, I bet you hadn’t thought about it in months (or even years?). Makes you wonder if blogs and myspace will follow the same path.
Hope your Monday is a good one. I think I need more coffee.
Cubs Win!
Yeah right. How ‘bout them Cards?! I confess that as a huge fan it was incredibly difficult to not watch game 5. But I also know I’ll always remember what I was doing when Inge made that sweet breeze with the final out.
This weekend we traveled to Dallas to help out with Believe. Seeing as Believe is a Friday and Saturday deal we were busy making it happen Friday as the game was played. However, thanks to technology we were able to keep up. I was running a camera for the night but was kept updated by text messages from my amazing wife who along with Carter were watching and stressing. The following really became intense around the7th inning so I missed out on the “we’re losing” and “how the heck is Casey hitting us so well?” thoughts.
Believe got over in time for the bottom of the ninth and thus entered the second technology—live stat tracking on the web. One of the interns had purchased wireless there at the convention center so a few of us huddled around the laptop to “watch” the last inning. When the final strike was thrown, we celebrated as you’d expect. Cards fans who grew up all over, a group many of us probably wouldn’t have been with other than Believe bringing us together and there we were on the floor of the arena celebrating, hugging, making fun of Cubs fans everywhere.
It was a great yet strange way to celebrate—the legend of the victory feeling oddly disconnected because we had no images to compare it to. I guess in some odd way it was like those farmers and small town fans who’ve followed the Cards for years huddling around their radios to hear of a World Series victory and allowing their minds to fill in the images that a TV can’t provide. Once back at the hotel ESPN was flipped on and though the images helped fill something in there was just something about smiling and imagining what was happening in the New Busch and celebrating with friends. It was a cool way to celebrate a World Series win and a time I’ll not soon forget.
Other things from the weekend that struck me. During set up for the weekend it was pointed out that I at the ripe old age of 30 was the oldest person there. Crazy. An amazing event reaching thousands of middle school students and the oldest person there until the actual event was 30. They are blessed with some incredible college students and staff that make the event something to behold.
All in all, the weekend was great. It was great to be at a Believe again, it was fun to see middle school ministry like that again. I saw some old friends, made some new ones and realized just how powerful the weekend can be/is. I’m looking forward to being at a few in the spring and in some bigger venues to see the energy that those extra little souls can generate. You should check it out. If you work with middle schoolers, you should go. You should take them. They’d be better for the experience.
One final note, I was reading this weekend and there was an old reference made to ICQ. I had totally forgot about ICQ. I remember “back in the day” when kids would sit for hours on that bad boy. It was the thing to do, so important to social survival and growth and maturity for a student. And now, I bet you hadn’t thought about it in months (or even years?). Makes you wonder if blogs and myspace will follow the same path.
Hope your Monday is a good one. I think I need more coffee.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Affogato
You never know how annoying it is to not have internet until you don't. Since when did nice hotels start charging $10/day for internet in their rooms. That seems absurd. That's I guess why God created Panera bread. A simple cup of coffee and free wi-fi. Of course if you factor in the gas and time it took to get the this location, the $10 might have actually been cheaper, but more difficult to explain.
So I had a first time experience last night--I watched an episode of Lost when it aired, like at the normal time and it was the next one I was supposed to watch. This whole waiting a week between shows is somethign I've got to get used to. I'm used to watching the whole season in a weekend. Waiting is both great and incredibly annoying. I simply want answers now.
So I'm in Dallas and we're setting up for next summer. It has been a great day, I've enjoyed what we've seen and the people we've met with are amazing. Makes me grateful for solid partners. DCC has some great folks and its a joy to work with people who love what they do and who want to make things as easy for you as they can.
We sat down with a young youth guy today--it was really a good talk, he's a sharp guy and slipping back into youth ministry discussions is fun. The one thing I hate is so many people when we contact them feel like we only want them to come to KS. Like, I want to talk to you about stuff, I'm not a salesman. It's annoying.
We've been having some good thoughts about the future of KS lately. I'm really open to things that I was at one time resistant of. Its fun to have a fruitful discussion about what we're supposed to do and feel like you can get up from the table and you've actually accomplished something and the conversation has been clarifying and helped you better plan for the future. Its fun to discover who you are and what you're supposed to do and then make a plan for how to get there. Its fun to do those things and not merely think or talk about them.
Closing Randoms: Hope the Cards win tonight. Actually, I hope the get to play tonight. Continuum is amazing. REI is a great store--you should buy me a gift card for there. Dallas is a great town. I can't wait to see my family.
One final thing. We've been thinking marketing a lot lately and I ran across this thought. I think it applies as much to live as to marketing and the fear that comes with planning for the future. It'll take you 2 minutes to read it, its worth the time.
http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2006/10/the_two_things_.html
So I had a first time experience last night--I watched an episode of Lost when it aired, like at the normal time and it was the next one I was supposed to watch. This whole waiting a week between shows is somethign I've got to get used to. I'm used to watching the whole season in a weekend. Waiting is both great and incredibly annoying. I simply want answers now.
So I'm in Dallas and we're setting up for next summer. It has been a great day, I've enjoyed what we've seen and the people we've met with are amazing. Makes me grateful for solid partners. DCC has some great folks and its a joy to work with people who love what they do and who want to make things as easy for you as they can.
We sat down with a young youth guy today--it was really a good talk, he's a sharp guy and slipping back into youth ministry discussions is fun. The one thing I hate is so many people when we contact them feel like we only want them to come to KS. Like, I want to talk to you about stuff, I'm not a salesman. It's annoying.
We've been having some good thoughts about the future of KS lately. I'm really open to things that I was at one time resistant of. Its fun to have a fruitful discussion about what we're supposed to do and feel like you can get up from the table and you've actually accomplished something and the conversation has been clarifying and helped you better plan for the future. Its fun to discover who you are and what you're supposed to do and then make a plan for how to get there. Its fun to do those things and not merely think or talk about them.
Closing Randoms: Hope the Cards win tonight. Actually, I hope the get to play tonight. Continuum is amazing. REI is a great store--you should buy me a gift card for there. Dallas is a great town. I can't wait to see my family.
One final thing. We've been thinking marketing a lot lately and I ran across this thought. I think it applies as much to live as to marketing and the fear that comes with planning for the future. It'll take you 2 minutes to read it, its worth the time.
http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2006/10/the_two_things_.html
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
All Over The Map
It's Wednesday. The album currently playing is:
How To Save a Life by The Fray
We leave today for Dallas. I'll be there through the weekend and it will be my first time back at a Believe in a couple years. I'm really looking forward to it becuase things have changed so much since I've been there and I think the location is going to be a great one.
Ben and I are heading down a little early to do some set up stuff for our own week in Dallas next year. I'm excited to be back because I absolutely loved Dallas last time I was there. There is something about the city, the feel and the people that I really liked so I'm ready to be back.
Other random information you should know:
I reorganized my office. Actually, Ang took my simple ideas and turned them into an inspiring place. I realized I work better in a creative space and that I needed to make the space mine. I've done that everywhere else I've been so its time to do it here. Here's the big change, there's really nothing Oregon in it. I've got a couple simple things but its really a whole new direction for me which I'm really excited about.
I'm enjoying the World Series. I don't find myself as emotional about it, other than I'm loving that the Cardinals are playing so well. Strangely you'll find I don't have much of an opinion on Kenny Rogers but I've loved the good baseball. The sport is amazing to me to begin with but more so when the games mean so much to those playing and those watching.
I got a new travel coffee mug from Starbucks when I was in Longmont. For some reason they decided to sell something on sale so I got it for nothing. I should have actually bought two but hey, I didn't.
I'm back to reading and checking out knowledge which is quite a good thing.
I taught those great pyschology classes yesterday. I pity the fools who sat through the first one, it was not good. The second class was a lot more fun and went a lot better. It was a good experience. I've discovered I don't have much of a passion for psychology. You could have known that if you'd looked at my college transcript.
I continue to pray for many I know and love who go through medical issues. There are a number right now so I'm doing the only thing I really can and praying. I'm looking forward to how God works it all out.
I continue to think about stuff I saw and talked about in Colorado. The trip was a really great one for me and has got me spinning on a number of issues.Combine that with the fact that I reopened some lines of communication with other people outside Colorado while on the trip it was profitable in a number of ways.
Well, it is cloudy and dark here. I like it.
Oh, and I hit a deer the other night. Stupid thing. Now I can barely open my passsenger side door. So cool. Peace.
How To Save a Life by The Fray
We leave today for Dallas. I'll be there through the weekend and it will be my first time back at a Believe in a couple years. I'm really looking forward to it becuase things have changed so much since I've been there and I think the location is going to be a great one.
Ben and I are heading down a little early to do some set up stuff for our own week in Dallas next year. I'm excited to be back because I absolutely loved Dallas last time I was there. There is something about the city, the feel and the people that I really liked so I'm ready to be back.
Other random information you should know:
I reorganized my office. Actually, Ang took my simple ideas and turned them into an inspiring place. I realized I work better in a creative space and that I needed to make the space mine. I've done that everywhere else I've been so its time to do it here. Here's the big change, there's really nothing Oregon in it. I've got a couple simple things but its really a whole new direction for me which I'm really excited about.
I'm enjoying the World Series. I don't find myself as emotional about it, other than I'm loving that the Cardinals are playing so well. Strangely you'll find I don't have much of an opinion on Kenny Rogers but I've loved the good baseball. The sport is amazing to me to begin with but more so when the games mean so much to those playing and those watching.
I got a new travel coffee mug from Starbucks when I was in Longmont. For some reason they decided to sell something on sale so I got it for nothing. I should have actually bought two but hey, I didn't.
I'm back to reading and checking out knowledge which is quite a good thing.
I taught those great pyschology classes yesterday. I pity the fools who sat through the first one, it was not good. The second class was a lot more fun and went a lot better. It was a good experience. I've discovered I don't have much of a passion for psychology. You could have known that if you'd looked at my college transcript.
I continue to pray for many I know and love who go through medical issues. There are a number right now so I'm doing the only thing I really can and praying. I'm looking forward to how God works it all out.
I continue to think about stuff I saw and talked about in Colorado. The trip was a really great one for me and has got me spinning on a number of issues.Combine that with the fact that I reopened some lines of communication with other people outside Colorado while on the trip it was profitable in a number of ways.
Well, it is cloudy and dark here. I like it.
Oh, and I hit a deer the other night. Stupid thing. Now I can barely open my passsenger side door. So cool. Peace.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
Yep Yep
Just a quick note to let you know I am still alive. Yesterday was the other type of day I love in Colorado. No clouds in the sky, brilliant blue sky, mountains in all their glory, snow everywhere but the roads are completely free of snow or moisture and are totally dry. This place is amazing for that. I walked around with a cheezy smile on all day long.
For those curious, the trip was more than worth it. My moleskin is filled with pages of stuff, my heart and mind are swirling and at some points my thoughts are running so wild that I feel like I want to chuck. I think that part is good.
I have a couple more meetings today and then its back to the airport and back to my amazing family. It shall be wonderful tonight to see them, to slip back into that major piece of normality and peace.
So may your thursday be good. I have a new episode of Lost to watch, a new book to read, an old magazine to finish and faithful old tunes to fill my car. And today its me and my bud Coghill who'll join me for my meetings and again provide insight and profoundly deep, humorous and at times beautiful chaos and wisdom to my day. It will be very nice.
For those curious, the trip was more than worth it. My moleskin is filled with pages of stuff, my heart and mind are swirling and at some points my thoughts are running so wild that I feel like I want to chuck. I think that part is good.
I have a couple more meetings today and then its back to the airport and back to my amazing family. It shall be wonderful tonight to see them, to slip back into that major piece of normality and peace.
So may your thursday be good. I have a new episode of Lost to watch, a new book to read, an old magazine to finish and faithful old tunes to fill my car. And today its me and my bud Coghill who'll join me for my meetings and again provide insight and profoundly deep, humorous and at times beautiful chaos and wisdom to my day. It will be very nice.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Simply Wonderful
Currently Listening: Continuum by John Mayer
I've not mentioned much about this album but it is amazing.
So I currently sit in a Panera in the great city of Boulder, Colorado. It is snowing outside, it has been ever since I landed. I had lunch at Red Robin and spent some time at Starbucks with my buddy Bford.
I'm out in the great Colorado to have some facinating meetings and hopefully become a little smarter and better prepared for some things. It should be good. In the meantime I'm back to a former home. It is very strange.
It is very. strange. to be back.
It has been good to see so many familiar faces and to have some great conversations already but still so weird to be back here.
I've got lots of thoughts swirling in my head but nothing worth sharing at this point. let me wish you a happy day, mine is amazing. I simply love snow.
I've not mentioned much about this album but it is amazing.
So I currently sit in a Panera in the great city of Boulder, Colorado. It is snowing outside, it has been ever since I landed. I had lunch at Red Robin and spent some time at Starbucks with my buddy Bford.
I'm out in the great Colorado to have some facinating meetings and hopefully become a little smarter and better prepared for some things. It should be good. In the meantime I'm back to a former home. It is very strange.
It is very. strange. to be back.
It has been good to see so many familiar faces and to have some great conversations already but still so weird to be back here.
I've got lots of thoughts swirling in my head but nothing worth sharing at this point. let me wish you a happy day, mine is amazing. I simply love snow.
Friday, October 13, 2006
The Sound of Settling
So its come to the point where I look forward to Jeff Weaver starts and am happy we only lost 2-0? I'm actually excited Beltran only hit one home run? I'm just happy we had a guy on base in the 9th so the tying run could come to the plate? We actually think the rain delay was to our benefit because we can throw our only solid starter earlier because we know all other options were that bad? I have truly been beaten down.
So its friday. I'm working a half day. We're having a garage sale today. I've sold more stuff than Ang. She doesn't find it is funny as I do.
So I was thinking. I'm quite certain no one comes to my blog looking for music reviews but since I absolutely love music and you should to <> .
So if you have $5 here's the 5 songs I think you should own. I'd love to hear what you think of them afterwards. I've put them in some sort of order in case you only have $3 or something.
1.Marching Bands of Manhattan by Death Cab For Cutie
2.Chaos by Mutemath
3.Hide and Seek by Imogen Heap
4.Stars and Boulevards by Augustana
5.Open Your Eyes by Snow Patrol
Okay, seriously you will dig them. You have to promise me you'll listen to the whole song before making any judgement but I seriously think all 5 artists are great and those are some of my favorite songs that these folks do.
Okay, its official, I'm teaching psychology in a week in a half. It is going to be......painful for them. I think I may exercise my own freudian angst on them.
So its friday. I'm working a half day. We're having a garage sale today. I've sold more stuff than Ang. She doesn't find it is funny as I do.
So I was thinking. I'm quite certain no one comes to my blog looking for music reviews but since I absolutely love music and you should to <
So if you have $5 here's the 5 songs I think you should own. I'd love to hear what you think of them afterwards. I've put them in some sort of order in case you only have $3 or something.
1.Marching Bands of Manhattan by Death Cab For Cutie
2.Chaos by Mutemath
3.Hide and Seek by Imogen Heap
4.Stars and Boulevards by Augustana
5.Open Your Eyes by Snow Patrol
Okay, seriously you will dig them. You have to promise me you'll listen to the whole song before making any judgement but I seriously think all 5 artists are great and those are some of my favorite songs that these folks do.
Okay, its official, I'm teaching psychology in a week in a half. It is going to be......painful for them. I think I may exercise my own freudian angst on them.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Frostbite
Album(s) Currently Playing: Eyes Open and Final Straw by Snow Patrol
Oh how I love the cold. I admit I'm a sucker for the beach and a tan at times but since my body loses 90% of the lame tan I ever get within 45 minutes of being out of the sun and since my idea of hell on earth is anytime I can't wear a shirt, I've decided that I'm a winter guy. I dig hoodies, layered clothes, warm stuff...and sandals. Somehow in my twisted life I detest socks, unless they are tall ones pulled all the way up to my knees when I play basketball. I think it should be allowed for me to wear a stocking hat all the time. I'm not a real fan of gloves but I need a neverending supply hot coffee in my office.
By the way, did I mention I picked up some coffee in the Philippines and it is hands down (cover your ears Starbucks) the finest coffee I have ever had? I love the stuff. Probably too much. It is simply amazing and if we were really really good friends and you were here I'd let you see and smell it and if you brought me a bag of it, I'd brew some and let you have one small sip. Then I'd keep the rest for myself because I'm an only child and that's what we do.
Last night the manchild got something I've wanted all my life. A full size Oregon Ducks football helmet. I have a mini one in my office. He has a full size one. Again, the only child alarms are ringing. He put on his jersey, helmet and shorts last night and looked quite amazing. I'd show you a picture but, well, it won't load up.
I guess I should be enlightening you with my brilliance or telling you books you should read or some nonesense like that but instead I'm telling you that if you don't own Snow Patrol, Mat Kearney, Keane and Death Cab For Cutie you are not the hippie, tree hugging friend I need. Seriously, the stuff will in small and no salvation oriented ways change your life and at least make you happier and more grateful that you have me as a friend.
Since I'm feeling rather opinionated today I thought I'd share with you what I thought of the last couple movies I've seen. MI3-seen on a plane on my way home. It was a nice way to get through a couple hours on the flight. That is all I have to say. Firewall with Harrison Ford. Sucked. Ford couldn't beat anybody up and I'm not buying Han Solo/Indiana Jones as a techno security geek once he quit traveling the world. Nope, the dude doesn't hack it. The storyline is annoying and the ending was hokey even for a movie. For those of you who recommended the movie to me I (do not) salute you. May you have a random late fee show up next time you go to rent something.
On one final exciting note, I am cover a couple classes in 2 weeks. At Ozark. Classes on psychology. Random exciting fact: I got an F on my first psychology test. I actually pulled a D in the class, hands down the worst grade of my college career. So I think I'll make an amazing teacher ahem, proffessor. I'm also covering a crisis counseling class. That's hot.
Well, nothing about our talk today has blessed you or made you a better person but I feel better.
Oh how I love the cold. I admit I'm a sucker for the beach and a tan at times but since my body loses 90% of the lame tan I ever get within 45 minutes of being out of the sun and since my idea of hell on earth is anytime I can't wear a shirt, I've decided that I'm a winter guy. I dig hoodies, layered clothes, warm stuff...and sandals. Somehow in my twisted life I detest socks, unless they are tall ones pulled all the way up to my knees when I play basketball. I think it should be allowed for me to wear a stocking hat all the time. I'm not a real fan of gloves but I need a neverending supply hot coffee in my office.
By the way, did I mention I picked up some coffee in the Philippines and it is hands down (cover your ears Starbucks) the finest coffee I have ever had? I love the stuff. Probably too much. It is simply amazing and if we were really really good friends and you were here I'd let you see and smell it and if you brought me a bag of it, I'd brew some and let you have one small sip. Then I'd keep the rest for myself because I'm an only child and that's what we do.
Last night the manchild got something I've wanted all my life. A full size Oregon Ducks football helmet. I have a mini one in my office. He has a full size one. Again, the only child alarms are ringing. He put on his jersey, helmet and shorts last night and looked quite amazing. I'd show you a picture but, well, it won't load up.
I guess I should be enlightening you with my brilliance or telling you books you should read or some nonesense like that but instead I'm telling you that if you don't own Snow Patrol, Mat Kearney, Keane and Death Cab For Cutie you are not the hippie, tree hugging friend I need. Seriously, the stuff will in small and no salvation oriented ways change your life and at least make you happier and more grateful that you have me as a friend.
Since I'm feeling rather opinionated today I thought I'd share with you what I thought of the last couple movies I've seen. MI3-seen on a plane on my way home. It was a nice way to get through a couple hours on the flight. That is all I have to say. Firewall with Harrison Ford. Sucked. Ford couldn't beat anybody up and I'm not buying Han Solo/Indiana Jones as a techno security geek once he quit traveling the world. Nope, the dude doesn't hack it. The storyline is annoying and the ending was hokey even for a movie. For those of you who recommended the movie to me I (do not) salute you. May you have a random late fee show up next time you go to rent something.
On one final exciting note, I am cover a couple classes in 2 weeks. At Ozark. Classes on psychology. Random exciting fact: I got an F on my first psychology test. I actually pulled a D in the class, hands down the worst grade of my college career. So I think I'll make an amazing teacher ahem, proffessor. I'm also covering a crisis counseling class. That's hot.
Well, nothing about our talk today has blessed you or made you a better person but I feel better.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Easing My Way Back In
Currently Listening: Coldplay's Album A Rush Of Blood To The Head
For those of you still wondering, yes I am still alive.
I've realized that the longer I stay away from blogging, the harder it is to start again.
I've also realized the more I talk about myself, the easier it is to do it on a regular basis.
So life is good right now. We just had a great visit to Quincy, I've been busy with KS stuff and loving just about every minute of it. I've become a slightly different person in temperment, its the first cold of the fall so I'm growing the beard and looking rather like a Lost character.
Which reminds me, Ang and I stepped into the 90's and finished season 1 tonight. We stayed away as long as we could but now are slowing dropping down the rabbit hole with everybody else. I can't say the show is changing my life or making me better in any tangible ways I could make money off of but it is entertaining and enjoyable.
Other than that I have about 5 new artists I'm listening to all the time these days though I find myself with a comfortable old favorite tonight.
So there you go.
For those of you still wondering, yes I am still alive.
I've realized that the longer I stay away from blogging, the harder it is to start again.
I've also realized the more I talk about myself, the easier it is to do it on a regular basis.
So life is good right now. We just had a great visit to Quincy, I've been busy with KS stuff and loving just about every minute of it. I've become a slightly different person in temperment, its the first cold of the fall so I'm growing the beard and looking rather like a Lost character.
Which reminds me, Ang and I stepped into the 90's and finished season 1 tonight. We stayed away as long as we could but now are slowing dropping down the rabbit hole with everybody else. I can't say the show is changing my life or making me better in any tangible ways I could make money off of but it is entertaining and enjoyable.
Other than that I have about 5 new artists I'm listening to all the time these days though I find myself with a comfortable old favorite tonight.
So there you go.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Why Am I Not Tired
I've been up since 3 A.M.
I think I've slept 5 hours in the last 3 days.
The new Hillsongs album kicks my butt.
Speaking of Hillsongs....I'm back from the Philippines and I'm 30. I was taking a survey online today for Nooma and when it came to age I had to check 30's and I thought wow.
Anyway, the Philippines was a really great trip. I will not lie, it was not my favorite ever. However it taught me a lot, it was a lot of fun, the guys were awesome, it was cool to celebrate my birthday in a different way--in fact I'd been up for quite a while and it wasn't unitl Wilson told me happy birthday that I realized it was. That's wierd. No mid life crisis here.
I read a great book called Ghost Soldiers, the latest Harry Potter book, and almost finished My Life by Clinton. Quite a wierd collection but good nonetheless.
Other randoms of the trip. I preached both sunday's once in a house church of 17 and the next week in a church of 800. I had the best calamari of my life, the finest steak of my life, laughed till it hurt, saw some stuff I'll never forget and realized how blessed I am to have a job where I can have email and phone conversations with my family whenever.
So all in all it was a great trip. I can't say there was some huge insight God taught to only me that you need to hear that will change you forever. I just think it was good for me. I learned a lot about missions, philosophy of those things and my leadership and it was really good. In an amazing act, I actually have pictures. I'll try to post some when I can.
I think I've slept 5 hours in the last 3 days.
The new Hillsongs album kicks my butt.
Speaking of Hillsongs....I'm back from the Philippines and I'm 30. I was taking a survey online today for Nooma and when it came to age I had to check 30's and I thought wow.
Anyway, the Philippines was a really great trip. I will not lie, it was not my favorite ever. However it taught me a lot, it was a lot of fun, the guys were awesome, it was cool to celebrate my birthday in a different way--in fact I'd been up for quite a while and it wasn't unitl Wilson told me happy birthday that I realized it was. That's wierd. No mid life crisis here.
I read a great book called Ghost Soldiers, the latest Harry Potter book, and almost finished My Life by Clinton. Quite a wierd collection but good nonetheless.
Other randoms of the trip. I preached both sunday's once in a house church of 17 and the next week in a church of 800. I had the best calamari of my life, the finest steak of my life, laughed till it hurt, saw some stuff I'll never forget and realized how blessed I am to have a job where I can have email and phone conversations with my family whenever.
So all in all it was a great trip. I can't say there was some huge insight God taught to only me that you need to hear that will change you forever. I just think it was good for me. I learned a lot about missions, philosophy of those things and my leadership and it was really good. In an amazing act, I actually have pictures. I'll try to post some when I can.
Friday, September 08, 2006
ESPN and Christ and Church
In my ever ongoing mission of explaining to the world why ESPN is not only amazing but also important to civilization, I came across a facinating interview on the radio last night as I was driving home. The interview was on the Dan Patrick show and the guest was Michael Irvin, a former wide reciever for the Dallas Cowboys. The discussion was on steroids and human growth hormones (HGH).
Quick background: Michael Irvin was a great player but also a cocaine addict. He's different now I guess, very outspoken, arrogant would be an understatement and I guess somewhere in there is a little theology or something.
Basically the discussion was on how these professional athletes today are taking "legal" drugs to succeed. Anything from roids to creatine to HGH to uppers to anti-inflamatory stuff to whatever. Finally, after much discussion on the ethics of it all (if they don't test for it and you do it and "cheat" is it wrong?) DP asked the question that shocked me.
DP: So Michael, if you had to do it over again and you were a 23 year old kid out of college, would you rather have a long mediocre at best career, more of the starving artist type, or would you rather use substances and have a standout career, make a ton of money but be dead at 27?
MI: Be marginal or make a ton of money for my family and be dead at 27?
DP: Yeah, long life or money and early death.
MI: Dead at 27.
DP: Really?
MI: Yeah, I mean not to push some theology or something on you but the Bible says that we're supposed to love our family and provide for them like Christ loves the church. My Bible says Christ died for the church to provide for it so I'd be dead at 27 so my family could have a nice lifestyle rather than force them to starve with me for many, many years.
Regardless of your opinion of sports/ESPN/God, I'm hoping the rough relay of the interview at least causes you to think for a bit. I've tried to figure out how I would have responded to Irvin's answer. Of course I'm a selfish only child too. So in addition to the worthless sports stats and anecdotes I memorized on my drive home I was left with a facinating question and an even more facinating answer. Happy thinking.
P.S. I killed a squirrel driving to the office today. On purpose. I wonder if he was 27...
Quick background: Michael Irvin was a great player but also a cocaine addict. He's different now I guess, very outspoken, arrogant would be an understatement and I guess somewhere in there is a little theology or something.
Basically the discussion was on how these professional athletes today are taking "legal" drugs to succeed. Anything from roids to creatine to HGH to uppers to anti-inflamatory stuff to whatever. Finally, after much discussion on the ethics of it all (if they don't test for it and you do it and "cheat" is it wrong?) DP asked the question that shocked me.
DP: So Michael, if you had to do it over again and you were a 23 year old kid out of college, would you rather have a long mediocre at best career, more of the starving artist type, or would you rather use substances and have a standout career, make a ton of money but be dead at 27?
MI: Be marginal or make a ton of money for my family and be dead at 27?
DP: Yeah, long life or money and early death.
MI: Dead at 27.
DP: Really?
MI: Yeah, I mean not to push some theology or something on you but the Bible says that we're supposed to love our family and provide for them like Christ loves the church. My Bible says Christ died for the church to provide for it so I'd be dead at 27 so my family could have a nice lifestyle rather than force them to starve with me for many, many years.
Regardless of your opinion of sports/ESPN/God, I'm hoping the rough relay of the interview at least causes you to think for a bit. I've tried to figure out how I would have responded to Irvin's answer. Of course I'm a selfish only child too. So in addition to the worthless sports stats and anecdotes I memorized on my drive home I was left with a facinating question and an even more facinating answer. Happy thinking.
P.S. I killed a squirrel driving to the office today. On purpose. I wonder if he was 27...
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
The White Picket Fence and Everything
So today (the day after my lovely wife's birthday) was the big day. We loaded up in the car, headed to the doctors office and with much excitement awaited the news of what our new little one will be. Carter has fluxuated back and forth between a boy or a girl but always the same name-Josh. First the important news, everything looks good, baby is growing and everything is healthy. Due date is still late January which gives us a little over 4 months to decide on a name for our little girl! Yep, we would have been happy either way but we are certainly very, very happy!
I can't say it came as much of a suprise for us. We were pretty convined, however you're always a little nervous. Fortunately the tech only asked Carter what he wanted (today he wanted a boy). You play the mind games of being happy no matter what etc but deep down we were both praying there would be an invasion of pink after the first of the year. So now one list of names is out the window--probably good since nobody spent much time thinking about them anyway.
So late January will be the first girl Gilchrist born to my family in 3 generations. It will also signal the first Gilchrist family with more than one child in 3 generations. And it means we have to buy new everything. Something tells me that part will be a little exciting for the beautiful woman who's lived with 2 boys and a boy dog for the past 3+ years. Now if only she could find some folks who could help her shop.......
I can't say it came as much of a suprise for us. We were pretty convined, however you're always a little nervous. Fortunately the tech only asked Carter what he wanted (today he wanted a boy). You play the mind games of being happy no matter what etc but deep down we were both praying there would be an invasion of pink after the first of the year. So now one list of names is out the window--probably good since nobody spent much time thinking about them anyway.
So late January will be the first girl Gilchrist born to my family in 3 generations. It will also signal the first Gilchrist family with more than one child in 3 generations. And it means we have to buy new everything. Something tells me that part will be a little exciting for the beautiful woman who's lived with 2 boys and a boy dog for the past 3+ years. Now if only she could find some folks who could help her shop.......
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Chaos
Album currently playing: Nothing Left To Lose by Mat Kearney
I find life to be a facinating thing. I'm in a good rut of reading lately which consists of pretty much all biographies with a couple "church" type books sprinkled in. I'm finishing up a great book on JFK that I've had all summer but never dedicated a lot of time to with the exception of poolside on vacation but its been worth the time. I guess what captures me is how life is rarely about order and tranquility because there isn't much and yet none of us really want that. We say we do, yet our sense of drive, ambition, our need to succeed dictates that we are not able to sit back and coast. There may be moments but even in some of those life steps in with variables we can't predict or possibly even control. Those moments though are the things that let us know we're alive and make us grateful for other moments which at the time we weren't happy about. We finally ascend the hill to look back at the valley and though it sucked we're grateful for what we learned and came out of the pit with and yet we see far beyond something more intriguing, something more beautiful, or at least closer to that ultimate destination and so we head out knowing somewhere in our subconscious that there's probably another valley out there. Sometimes we walk waiting for the ground to fall out from under us, sometimes we walk with a confidence we've not known before. Sometimes we expect bad and get good, sometimes we feel invincible only to get leveled out of nowhere. And all the while we watch our friends and those we love go through the same thing. Sometimes our spot on the hill affords us the perspective to see what they're doing, sometimes they're way beyond us and we wonder where the strength, the fortitude, the insight comes from for them to survive. Sometimes those friends give us just the boost we need to survive, sometimes we feel as though the island we're on has never been seen before and there's no one to help.
Sometimes this life I lead now leaves me with the perspective of observer. Don't get me wrong, there's plenty happening in our lives, there's our daily struggles but in the past week Ang and I keep having these little conversations about people we love and what the heck is going on in their part of the journey. I talked for 2 hours with one this morning. It was all good, some of the conversation was sad because of what had to be said in honesty. I've read about or seen the pictures of others experiences and been left wishing there was a way I could be there or could offer a way to go. There are some I've lost contact with and the way they left things makes me afraid for them. There's the visit to a blog to read a maturity in someone I've not seen before and its encouraging and impressive.
While I was in Mexico I had the opportunity 4 different times to swim in the ocean. It was beautiful. Especially since we'd work so hard all day there was something about disengaging from the group, though we'd swim together, something about the way we'd all head out and process what we were living in a communal way as we simultaneously enjoyed nature and life. We'd body surf for a while, then start waiting just for good waves to catch which would lead us to end up often beyond all the breaks maybe a couple hundred yards off shore. We could still touch the ground but mostly just floated over what would eventually become a wave once it got closer to shore. The thing about it was it was so much life, always moving, always changing, sometimes exciting, sometimes a little intimidating, sometimes boring. Each of us would catch different waves, see different things some of us would venture back towards shore and some would swim farther out. Some of us didn't want to get out, some just wanted to get back to shore where you could stop and rest and catch your breath. But the real fun was in the same place as the real danger. Honestly, I can't lie I was a little scared when I first saw the fin of the dolphin above the water. Funny how the most beautiful experience was also a little terrifying. The best part of being at the beach was also in the same position where the worst moments of getting crushed by a wave or drinking more salt water than was healthy happened. And on one of our final days out there those of us in the water saw what those on the shore totally missed--8 dolphins. The came towards us, circled around a couple time and then swam back and forth in front of us in the breaks of the waves. 2 actually swam towards one of the leaders and swam on either side of him close enough he could feel them go by. And it was worth being out there. It was worth the salt in the back of my throat, the sore ear, the scuff on my knee from a nasty wave. It was something I'll never forget. And in the chaos of the ocean I saw, and maybe just me, a metaphor of life. I'm going to assume if you're reading this your a friend of mine so I wish you the best today. I pray your swim is memorable and my encouragement to you is keep your head above water. If you need somebody to help you talk to them. If you're too deep, head back closer to shore but by all means, keep swimming. It will be worth it.
I find life to be a facinating thing. I'm in a good rut of reading lately which consists of pretty much all biographies with a couple "church" type books sprinkled in. I'm finishing up a great book on JFK that I've had all summer but never dedicated a lot of time to with the exception of poolside on vacation but its been worth the time. I guess what captures me is how life is rarely about order and tranquility because there isn't much and yet none of us really want that. We say we do, yet our sense of drive, ambition, our need to succeed dictates that we are not able to sit back and coast. There may be moments but even in some of those life steps in with variables we can't predict or possibly even control. Those moments though are the things that let us know we're alive and make us grateful for other moments which at the time we weren't happy about. We finally ascend the hill to look back at the valley and though it sucked we're grateful for what we learned and came out of the pit with and yet we see far beyond something more intriguing, something more beautiful, or at least closer to that ultimate destination and so we head out knowing somewhere in our subconscious that there's probably another valley out there. Sometimes we walk waiting for the ground to fall out from under us, sometimes we walk with a confidence we've not known before. Sometimes we expect bad and get good, sometimes we feel invincible only to get leveled out of nowhere. And all the while we watch our friends and those we love go through the same thing. Sometimes our spot on the hill affords us the perspective to see what they're doing, sometimes they're way beyond us and we wonder where the strength, the fortitude, the insight comes from for them to survive. Sometimes those friends give us just the boost we need to survive, sometimes we feel as though the island we're on has never been seen before and there's no one to help.
Sometimes this life I lead now leaves me with the perspective of observer. Don't get me wrong, there's plenty happening in our lives, there's our daily struggles but in the past week Ang and I keep having these little conversations about people we love and what the heck is going on in their part of the journey. I talked for 2 hours with one this morning. It was all good, some of the conversation was sad because of what had to be said in honesty. I've read about or seen the pictures of others experiences and been left wishing there was a way I could be there or could offer a way to go. There are some I've lost contact with and the way they left things makes me afraid for them. There's the visit to a blog to read a maturity in someone I've not seen before and its encouraging and impressive.
While I was in Mexico I had the opportunity 4 different times to swim in the ocean. It was beautiful. Especially since we'd work so hard all day there was something about disengaging from the group, though we'd swim together, something about the way we'd all head out and process what we were living in a communal way as we simultaneously enjoyed nature and life. We'd body surf for a while, then start waiting just for good waves to catch which would lead us to end up often beyond all the breaks maybe a couple hundred yards off shore. We could still touch the ground but mostly just floated over what would eventually become a wave once it got closer to shore. The thing about it was it was so much life, always moving, always changing, sometimes exciting, sometimes a little intimidating, sometimes boring. Each of us would catch different waves, see different things some of us would venture back towards shore and some would swim farther out. Some of us didn't want to get out, some just wanted to get back to shore where you could stop and rest and catch your breath. But the real fun was in the same place as the real danger. Honestly, I can't lie I was a little scared when I first saw the fin of the dolphin above the water. Funny how the most beautiful experience was also a little terrifying. The best part of being at the beach was also in the same position where the worst moments of getting crushed by a wave or drinking more salt water than was healthy happened. And on one of our final days out there those of us in the water saw what those on the shore totally missed--8 dolphins. The came towards us, circled around a couple time and then swam back and forth in front of us in the breaks of the waves. 2 actually swam towards one of the leaders and swam on either side of him close enough he could feel them go by. And it was worth being out there. It was worth the salt in the back of my throat, the sore ear, the scuff on my knee from a nasty wave. It was something I'll never forget. And in the chaos of the ocean I saw, and maybe just me, a metaphor of life. I'm going to assume if you're reading this your a friend of mine so I wish you the best today. I pray your swim is memorable and my encouragement to you is keep your head above water. If you need somebody to help you talk to them. If you're too deep, head back closer to shore but by all means, keep swimming. It will be worth it.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Weekend Report
Currently Listening To: Let You Down by Dave Matthews Band
Maybe its the fact that I haven't had a normal weekend at home in about 3 months but this past weekend was amazing. Simply amazing. Here's all the life changing, earth shattering stuff we accomplished this weekend:
Yeah, that's what I mean. We didn't do anything huge and it was very, very nice. We did attempt to work on Ang's car which died at the Y. It is finally back home and we'll work on it this week. Looks like an alternator. Nice. Too bad I am a mechanical moron. Thank goodness for friends. Our trips in to try and get to Ang's car which seemed to always have people parked around it resulting in a complete inability to jump start it did result in 2 wonderful family trips to Starbucks resulting in Cafe con Leche's for us and lemonade or chocolate milk for Carter. Other important big news, we bought 2 new pillows. The one that traveled with me this summer needed to be retired or burned and we were tired of laying our heads on pillows that felt like they had wadded up socks in them.
We also rented some movies--its time to catch up on all the stuff we missed all summer so the 3 selections for the weekend were: Bad News Bears (disappointing, funny but too much language), Inside Man (according to Ang, anything with Denzel is a winner--it was very good) and finally Crash. Yes, we were the 2 people on earth not to see it. To be honest, I really liked it. We both did, and a lot more than we thought we would. It got me to thinking and was well done so all in all, we didn't do too bad. The one movie I'm dying to see still is Syriana which I've heard some amazingly mixed reviews about which makes me want to see it all the more.
Now Playing: Crooked Deep Down by Derek Webb
Last night Carter and I walked down to the movie store to take the movies back. That kid. Good grief. He's getting quite the personality and is so funny at times. He can also test the last nerve occasionally but man do we love him. The big thing I'm working on him about right now is that when we're in public we don't have to talk at the top of our lungs so that everyone in the county here's us. Especially since he repeats himself all the time or says some of the most off the wall stuff. Last night we were watching the Cubs/Cards game (seriously, amazing. That's what makes baseball great) when he went down unprovoked and informed Ang that his head hurt, my head hurt and she needed to make us a bowl of popcorn. Yeah, not sure where it came from but the popcorn was good.
So that was my weekend. Ang is busy working on baby names and though I was a spoilsport last night it was fun to talk about names. At this point, it may mean nothing, but I think we have it down to 5 boys names and 6 girls names. Maybe 7. I can't get her to go for Ebenezer yet. Okay, it's Monday so enjoy.
Maybe its the fact that I haven't had a normal weekend at home in about 3 months but this past weekend was amazing. Simply amazing. Here's all the life changing, earth shattering stuff we accomplished this weekend:
Yeah, that's what I mean. We didn't do anything huge and it was very, very nice. We did attempt to work on Ang's car which died at the Y. It is finally back home and we'll work on it this week. Looks like an alternator. Nice. Too bad I am a mechanical moron. Thank goodness for friends. Our trips in to try and get to Ang's car which seemed to always have people parked around it resulting in a complete inability to jump start it did result in 2 wonderful family trips to Starbucks resulting in Cafe con Leche's for us and lemonade or chocolate milk for Carter. Other important big news, we bought 2 new pillows. The one that traveled with me this summer needed to be retired or burned and we were tired of laying our heads on pillows that felt like they had wadded up socks in them.
We also rented some movies--its time to catch up on all the stuff we missed all summer so the 3 selections for the weekend were: Bad News Bears (disappointing, funny but too much language), Inside Man (according to Ang, anything with Denzel is a winner--it was very good) and finally Crash. Yes, we were the 2 people on earth not to see it. To be honest, I really liked it. We both did, and a lot more than we thought we would. It got me to thinking and was well done so all in all, we didn't do too bad. The one movie I'm dying to see still is Syriana which I've heard some amazingly mixed reviews about which makes me want to see it all the more.
Now Playing: Crooked Deep Down by Derek Webb
Last night Carter and I walked down to the movie store to take the movies back. That kid. Good grief. He's getting quite the personality and is so funny at times. He can also test the last nerve occasionally but man do we love him. The big thing I'm working on him about right now is that when we're in public we don't have to talk at the top of our lungs so that everyone in the county here's us. Especially since he repeats himself all the time or says some of the most off the wall stuff. Last night we were watching the Cubs/Cards game (seriously, amazing. That's what makes baseball great) when he went down unprovoked and informed Ang that his head hurt, my head hurt and she needed to make us a bowl of popcorn. Yeah, not sure where it came from but the popcorn was good.
So that was my weekend. Ang is busy working on baby names and though I was a spoilsport last night it was fun to talk about names. At this point, it may mean nothing, but I think we have it down to 5 boys names and 6 girls names. Maybe 7. I can't get her to go for Ebenezer yet. Okay, it's Monday so enjoy.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Stuff You Can't Possibly Care About
It's been a while since I've talked about myself so its high time I update you on at least a few random things about myself.
First I had an amazing vacation with my lovely wife. It was downright relaxing. Lots of reading, walks on the beach, amazing seafood and just pure laziness. It was wierd to not have to take care of the man child and simply do what we want like a married couple with no kids. I'd recommend the location and plan on going back myself before we go another 4 years without a vacation.
Fall is here and with it a new set of things to work on. My travel is not going to be quite as oppressive as last year but I'll be busy. I do get to do some international travel besides Mexico again which makes me very happy. As long as I can take my ipod with me at least.
Speaking of said ipod, I am obsessed with the 25 most played songs on my ipod. I think its a telling thing about a person, which songs they are listening to the most. Obviously mine is dominated by the summer travels but its still interesting. So, without further ado, I present my top 5:
1.Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
2.My Savior My God by Aaron Shust
3.Paper Thin Hymn by Anberlin
4.Stationary by Anberlin
5.We're Going To Be Friends by Jack Johnson
It's kind of a wierd mix to me but still, you should check them out. Speaking of things to check out here's some songs I think you should listen to if you have the time, it would be worth it because, let's be honest, you're not doing anything important if you're still on my blog.
1. Waiting on the World to Change by John Mayer (I am very excited for the new album)
2.Is It Any Wonder? by Keane
3.Stitched Up by Herbie Hancock feat. John Mayer
4. Hide and Seek by Imogen Heap (recommended by Coghill)
Speaking of Coghill I must speak to a rumor that I now have a piercing. It is true. While in San Diego with my bud Coghill, after the amazing week in Mexico (which I still plan on reporting on) we went to a place called Superfly which he Googled on his Treo while we walked the gaslamp district, and got our ears pierced. Now, lest I sound any less heterosexual than I do right now let me explain a couple things. First, it is up at the top of the ear not down at the bottom. Second, we did not go anywhere near the other when it was done it was not like I needed someone to hold my hand or anything. And third it didn't hurt at all, getting a tattoo is much harder--oh, you didn't know I have one of those too? Yeah, I guess I'm a pagan. Anyway, I have a ring in but must get a clear spacer put in while I head to the Philippines. So anyway, that rumor if you've heard it is true. The only pain now is when people grab it--otherwise its healing nicely thank you.
Other exciting news is that our riding lawnmower had a safety recall on it. Seems that a hose disconnects from the gas tank (it had already happened to me) and peoples mowers were apparently going up in flames. Turns out this is a bad thing, something Sears wasn't okay with which I found comforting. So, they sent a new part and a friendly little fella out to repair it. In the meantime I was not able to use it (what a great excuse for why I wasn't mowing my lawn). Unfortunatey both Ang and I had spent some time on the thing so I guess once again we taunted death. I can't tell you how tough that makes me feel.
Finally, my beloved Cardinals are sinking. Even more sad is that my fantasy baseball team is following a similar path. Baseball is being a bad friend lately but I have faith that things will redeem themselves. Even if they don't its simply baseball and that's nothing compared to the fact that in about 2 weeks we'll be finding out when our baby is due for sure and what we're having (hopefully). Oh if Carter only knew what he's in for.
So I guess that is a quick update. We're busy working on summer plans for next year. Looks like I'll be in Cincinnati for 5 weeks and St. Louis for one. I'm pretty excited about that but we have a lot of work to do before we get there. Oh and I'm headed to Colorado in October for a few days for a pretty facinating meeting and hopefully some good research for the future.
And.I'm. Done.
First I had an amazing vacation with my lovely wife. It was downright relaxing. Lots of reading, walks on the beach, amazing seafood and just pure laziness. It was wierd to not have to take care of the man child and simply do what we want like a married couple with no kids. I'd recommend the location and plan on going back myself before we go another 4 years without a vacation.
Fall is here and with it a new set of things to work on. My travel is not going to be quite as oppressive as last year but I'll be busy. I do get to do some international travel besides Mexico again which makes me very happy. As long as I can take my ipod with me at least.
Speaking of said ipod, I am obsessed with the 25 most played songs on my ipod. I think its a telling thing about a person, which songs they are listening to the most. Obviously mine is dominated by the summer travels but its still interesting. So, without further ado, I present my top 5:
1.Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
2.My Savior My God by Aaron Shust
3.Paper Thin Hymn by Anberlin
4.Stationary by Anberlin
5.We're Going To Be Friends by Jack Johnson
It's kind of a wierd mix to me but still, you should check them out. Speaking of things to check out here's some songs I think you should listen to if you have the time, it would be worth it because, let's be honest, you're not doing anything important if you're still on my blog.
1. Waiting on the World to Change by John Mayer (I am very excited for the new album)
2.Is It Any Wonder? by Keane
3.Stitched Up by Herbie Hancock feat. John Mayer
4. Hide and Seek by Imogen Heap (recommended by Coghill)
Speaking of Coghill I must speak to a rumor that I now have a piercing. It is true. While in San Diego with my bud Coghill, after the amazing week in Mexico (which I still plan on reporting on) we went to a place called Superfly which he Googled on his Treo while we walked the gaslamp district, and got our ears pierced. Now, lest I sound any less heterosexual than I do right now let me explain a couple things. First, it is up at the top of the ear not down at the bottom. Second, we did not go anywhere near the other when it was done it was not like I needed someone to hold my hand or anything. And third it didn't hurt at all, getting a tattoo is much harder--oh, you didn't know I have one of those too? Yeah, I guess I'm a pagan. Anyway, I have a ring in but must get a clear spacer put in while I head to the Philippines. So anyway, that rumor if you've heard it is true. The only pain now is when people grab it--otherwise its healing nicely thank you.
Other exciting news is that our riding lawnmower had a safety recall on it. Seems that a hose disconnects from the gas tank (it had already happened to me) and peoples mowers were apparently going up in flames. Turns out this is a bad thing, something Sears wasn't okay with which I found comforting. So, they sent a new part and a friendly little fella out to repair it. In the meantime I was not able to use it (what a great excuse for why I wasn't mowing my lawn). Unfortunatey both Ang and I had spent some time on the thing so I guess once again we taunted death. I can't tell you how tough that makes me feel.
Finally, my beloved Cardinals are sinking. Even more sad is that my fantasy baseball team is following a similar path. Baseball is being a bad friend lately but I have faith that things will redeem themselves. Even if they don't its simply baseball and that's nothing compared to the fact that in about 2 weeks we'll be finding out when our baby is due for sure and what we're having (hopefully). Oh if Carter only knew what he's in for.
So I guess that is a quick update. We're busy working on summer plans for next year. Looks like I'll be in Cincinnati for 5 weeks and St. Louis for one. I'm pretty excited about that but we have a lot of work to do before we get there. Oh and I'm headed to Colorado in October for a few days for a pretty facinating meeting and hopefully some good research for the future.
And.I'm. Done.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Stumblings
Ever sit down to post and wonder whether what is really bouncing around in your head will actually come out on the screen or if you'll just mutter and people will find it any number of things and you'll walk away having processed things and yet wondering whether it will make any difference? Yeah me neither.
Except right now.
So I'm lost in Hillsong stuff today. Some of it new, some of it old, all of it a great place to retreat to.
So I think it is official that I can say I really dig what I do. I mean service stuff, not in a narcissitic way I really think I'm awesome or something. I really think I might possibly in some way have a heart for what I do. I say that in all truth with a heavy dose of understatement and some sarcasm sprinkled on top.
Today the realization was this: I'm a story junkie. Lately I find a thought in scripture and really truly try to meditate on it and what comes out is a bunch of connections between that verse and a number of others and sprinkled in amongst that is stories of stuff I've seen and then I'm trying to boil it down to some truths to live by. Basically that's what one of my sermons looks like right now. I did it a few weeks ago in Mexico and I've done that about 4 times in the last 2 days on the phone and in person. Stuff that when I share it I give myself goosebumps. Well, I don't give them to myself, but I get them from rethinking the story. I notice my mannerisms change and my voice changes and my emotions run high. I find myself exhausted at the end of them in a good way. I find myself emotional about them. I actually teared up in Mexico a couple times--and for those of you who know me that's a big deal.
I really do intend to share some stuff about Mexico but so far really only my wife and a few others have heard much of it because its so deep in there. Plus I want pictures to share. But really, I'm just not sure I'm ready to just puke it out on a screen--I really want to find a better platform to talk about it. This is too, well, imprersonal and since there isn't much dialogue about the stuff it leaves me wondering and then I get lost in my own cavernous skull ( I was told a number of times this summer that I have a big skull--not like I'm smart, like my melon is huge--like sputnik if you will).
Well, this is probably not what you were hoping for from a post but then again you probably came with low expectations. My buddy Coghill says I use self-depricating humor a lot. I guess this post might give some preverbial fuel to his fire.
Okay, so I just heard about the terrorism stuff. Seems like that might be important to look at. Happy day.
Except right now.
So I'm lost in Hillsong stuff today. Some of it new, some of it old, all of it a great place to retreat to.
So I think it is official that I can say I really dig what I do. I mean service stuff, not in a narcissitic way I really think I'm awesome or something. I really think I might possibly in some way have a heart for what I do. I say that in all truth with a heavy dose of understatement and some sarcasm sprinkled on top.
Today the realization was this: I'm a story junkie. Lately I find a thought in scripture and really truly try to meditate on it and what comes out is a bunch of connections between that verse and a number of others and sprinkled in amongst that is stories of stuff I've seen and then I'm trying to boil it down to some truths to live by. Basically that's what one of my sermons looks like right now. I did it a few weeks ago in Mexico and I've done that about 4 times in the last 2 days on the phone and in person. Stuff that when I share it I give myself goosebumps. Well, I don't give them to myself, but I get them from rethinking the story. I notice my mannerisms change and my voice changes and my emotions run high. I find myself exhausted at the end of them in a good way. I find myself emotional about them. I actually teared up in Mexico a couple times--and for those of you who know me that's a big deal.
I really do intend to share some stuff about Mexico but so far really only my wife and a few others have heard much of it because its so deep in there. Plus I want pictures to share. But really, I'm just not sure I'm ready to just puke it out on a screen--I really want to find a better platform to talk about it. This is too, well, imprersonal and since there isn't much dialogue about the stuff it leaves me wondering and then I get lost in my own cavernous skull ( I was told a number of times this summer that I have a big skull--not like I'm smart, like my melon is huge--like sputnik if you will).
Well, this is probably not what you were hoping for from a post but then again you probably came with low expectations. My buddy Coghill says I use self-depricating humor a lot. I guess this post might give some preverbial fuel to his fire.
Okay, so I just heard about the terrorism stuff. Seems like that might be important to look at. Happy day.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
It's Been A While
Currently Listening: Ipod on shuffle
Currently Playing: She Is by The Fray
BTW, did I not tell you people The Fray would be huge? If I had the time I'd go back to Old Gil and find the post where I first spoke of them. Back when you thought I was an idiot and I was wrong about them. Now I'm just an idiot.
So the summer is over. It was amazing.
I ended my 7 week adventure in Mexico and it was simply beautiful. The experience was unforgetable and when I muster up the strength and/or get some pictures from the time there I'll post a little. Otherwise it will remain in my heart and mind until further sermons.
So I'm back in the office this week until Ang and I escape to vacation ditching the man child. Our first vacation since before he was born. That seems like a long time or something. Good thing I now have 1501 songs on my Ipod. That should cover most of the trip.
Now Playing: Jesus I Lift My Eyes by Jars of Clay
After some thought it looks like I might spend a lot of summer in Cincinnati next year which is very cool. Nothing to report yet though.
Okay, I have not hte strength to carry this on and since hardly anyone else is blogging these days I trust that I'm safe from many reading this. I shall report more later.
Currently Playing: She Is by The Fray
BTW, did I not tell you people The Fray would be huge? If I had the time I'd go back to Old Gil and find the post where I first spoke of them. Back when you thought I was an idiot and I was wrong about them. Now I'm just an idiot.
So the summer is over. It was amazing.
I ended my 7 week adventure in Mexico and it was simply beautiful. The experience was unforgetable and when I muster up the strength and/or get some pictures from the time there I'll post a little. Otherwise it will remain in my heart and mind until further sermons.
So I'm back in the office this week until Ang and I escape to vacation ditching the man child. Our first vacation since before he was born. That seems like a long time or something. Good thing I now have 1501 songs on my Ipod. That should cover most of the trip.
Now Playing: Jesus I Lift My Eyes by Jars of Clay
After some thought it looks like I might spend a lot of summer in Cincinnati next year which is very cool. Nothing to report yet though.
Okay, I have not hte strength to carry this on and since hardly anyone else is blogging these days I trust that I'm safe from many reading this. I shall report more later.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
I Vote For Starbucks
Currently Listening to: Jesus Paid It All::Passion
Tonight is my final night at Know Sweat. It's Wednesday which means its my favorite night. Afterwards our staff is going out for our weekly hangout for ice cream. This week I am voting for non-ice cream--a trip to Starbucks. I may even break away from the new status quo of Cafe Con Leche and go straight for the Frappucino.
Tomorrow morning I fly back to Springfield, travel back to Joplin, do a bunch of things, repack and fly out of Springfield the following morning. It will soon be Diego rock time.
I guess I have mixed emotions about tonight. It's been fun and I feel lame for bailing midway on a week. I'm excited for the unknown of Mexico as those experiences challenge me and I always love them (sometimes I admit it takes an after the fact reevaluation).
I realized I haven't posted much about the past few weeks of projects or anything. I am not quite sure why that is. It's not as though there aren't great things happening. I hope it's not a numb thing--I think its just a processing thing. I realized I should have been posting some pictures of stuff, that is my plan for next year. I think that will be a good idea.
Okay, so this post went nowhere. I had a plan when I sat down and I wimped out so you get a waste of time that even I acknowledge as such. I need to pack and head to a leader meeting. Then its worship where I am quite curious to see where things go.
Now Listening to: Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
One final request-wish me luck on the flight. When I packed I didn't really think about the whole having to get it on a plane thing. i think each of my bags is over 50 lbs. Not sure what's in there but its heavy. Oh, but I did get new sandals when I'm not wearing the chaco's. The flip style of crocs. They are as comfortable as Rector said they were. Hooray for comfort. Now its dinner time.
Tonight is my final night at Know Sweat. It's Wednesday which means its my favorite night. Afterwards our staff is going out for our weekly hangout for ice cream. This week I am voting for non-ice cream--a trip to Starbucks. I may even break away from the new status quo of Cafe Con Leche and go straight for the Frappucino.
Tomorrow morning I fly back to Springfield, travel back to Joplin, do a bunch of things, repack and fly out of Springfield the following morning. It will soon be Diego rock time.
I guess I have mixed emotions about tonight. It's been fun and I feel lame for bailing midway on a week. I'm excited for the unknown of Mexico as those experiences challenge me and I always love them (sometimes I admit it takes an after the fact reevaluation).
I realized I haven't posted much about the past few weeks of projects or anything. I am not quite sure why that is. It's not as though there aren't great things happening. I hope it's not a numb thing--I think its just a processing thing. I realized I should have been posting some pictures of stuff, that is my plan for next year. I think that will be a good idea.
Okay, so this post went nowhere. I had a plan when I sat down and I wimped out so you get a waste of time that even I acknowledge as such. I need to pack and head to a leader meeting. Then its worship where I am quite curious to see where things go.
Now Listening to: Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol
One final request-wish me luck on the flight. When I packed I didn't really think about the whole having to get it on a plane thing. i think each of my bags is over 50 lbs. Not sure what's in there but its heavy. Oh, but I did get new sandals when I'm not wearing the chaco's. The flip style of crocs. They are as comfortable as Rector said they were. Hooray for comfort. Now its dinner time.
Monday, July 24, 2006
What Exactly Did I Do Today?
Currently Listening To: Snow Patrol--Chasing Cars
I'm living with priests this week.
We're on a catholic campus and the housing got screwed up but I'm living with some priests--I think they are in another part of the building but it is old school over here. So old school they have internet. But seriously, my lamp has a plug that probably is older than at least me.
I spent 5 hours at the hospital today. Not because of anything bad. One of our interns dislocated her knee when we were in St. Louis and today we were trying to get her a new brace and crutches so she can make it through the last week. We were successful.
I also had a first time experience. I had to walk through a metal detector on my way into the Emergency room. When we first got in there were almost as many cops as people waiting. I think that's usually bad.
On the good side we only had to wait a little over 3 hours before we got called in. Then it was only almost 2 hours before the doctor came in. Other than that it was stellar. Stellar I say.
So this is the final week of the summer for this crew. They have done very well. I haven't said much about them but I personally couldn't ask for anything better from them. They have been very, very good people. I admire them because they're in a place I never was. I don't regret any of my life but man, its cool to see them at this point so young. I'm hoping at least one of them comes back again next summer. That would rock my face off.
So I guess that's it. I had some spiritual thoughts but I'm tired and I'll end up screwing them up which in and of itself isn't anything new, I'm just not in the mood to do it tonight.
One final note, I'm reading an amazing book borrowed from my bud bford--Flyboys. it's about WWII which is my favorite historical time period. It's a can't put down kind of thing. I highly recommmend it. So much so I put 3 m's in that word and am too lazy to go back and delete on. Dixie Chicks just came on my ipod so I need to go beat my head against the door in punishment and then I'm going to go find a priest and talk Da Vinci Code. Peace.
I'm living with priests this week.
We're on a catholic campus and the housing got screwed up but I'm living with some priests--I think they are in another part of the building but it is old school over here. So old school they have internet. But seriously, my lamp has a plug that probably is older than at least me.
I spent 5 hours at the hospital today. Not because of anything bad. One of our interns dislocated her knee when we were in St. Louis and today we were trying to get her a new brace and crutches so she can make it through the last week. We were successful.
I also had a first time experience. I had to walk through a metal detector on my way into the Emergency room. When we first got in there were almost as many cops as people waiting. I think that's usually bad.
On the good side we only had to wait a little over 3 hours before we got called in. Then it was only almost 2 hours before the doctor came in. Other than that it was stellar. Stellar I say.
So this is the final week of the summer for this crew. They have done very well. I haven't said much about them but I personally couldn't ask for anything better from them. They have been very, very good people. I admire them because they're in a place I never was. I don't regret any of my life but man, its cool to see them at this point so young. I'm hoping at least one of them comes back again next summer. That would rock my face off.
So I guess that's it. I had some spiritual thoughts but I'm tired and I'll end up screwing them up which in and of itself isn't anything new, I'm just not in the mood to do it tonight.
One final note, I'm reading an amazing book borrowed from my bud bford--Flyboys. it's about WWII which is my favorite historical time period. It's a can't put down kind of thing. I highly recommmend it. So much so I put 3 m's in that word and am too lazy to go back and delete on. Dixie Chicks just came on my ipod so I need to go beat my head against the door in punishment and then I'm going to go find a priest and talk Da Vinci Code. Peace.
Sunday, July 23, 2006
Being Bald Is To My Advantage
It's Sunday.
This might be my favorite day of the summer (not including any when I was with my family).
It started with church. Since we're in Memphis we went and worshipped with a church we've been working with for the past few years. I've talked about them before and I don't remember what I've said but it was my first time to be there on Sunday morning. Their pastor-Pastor Jim-is a great man. So cool, so sharp and the church just gives me chills. Inner city, doing everything it can to reflect the city in which it has been placed and in my opinion, being blessed by God because it didn't run to the suburbs. It is the kind of church I'd want to work at if I ever went back to that kind of thing.
It took me a minute to figure out why I liked it so well and then I realized it was the smell. Let me explain...
On our way in from the parking lot I again realized that this was a different place. Since they are trying to reach the city and since they have/do preach a message of come as you are there was a group of guys out front getting their last smoke before heading in for worship. One of them I remembered from spring break. His name is Danny and he guarded the door for us. He's rough looking. Looks like a hell's angel dude but like so many of them has a soft heart. His story includes some major back pain and so he can't work like he could but wants to be a part of the Community and so he helps out any way he can. During greeting time, I went and re introduced myself to him and it was after that as we were singing some Waterdeep I realized my hand reaked, of cigarette. And it was beautiful. The place looks like a cross section of Memphis. Inter racial, suburban, urban, tattoo, a little old lady playing a hymn on the piano for offering, a dude in a suit, a dude that looks like a skinny Jerry Garcia, men hugging its beautiful. To me, it looked a little like heaven only here. Its just cool. I am sure they have their issues, the church isn't perfect becuase none of us is but its just refreshing to see.
After that was brunch as a restaurant called the Blue Monkey. I did a greek omelete which was a delight.
We did some preparation work in the afternoon and then headed to, in my opinion, the finest restaurant in Memphis. Celtic Crossing. It's an irish place with a.m.a.z.i.n.g food. I did the fish and chips but since I don't do fries anymore I did spuds and the salad with their house vinagrette loaded with feta. Did I mention the food is amazing? It is.
After that we headed to Starbucks for, yes, my new favorite Coffee con Leche with sugar in the raw. I've converted a couple more to the CCL faith. It's good stuff and worth the $2.35 for a grande. It was cold in Starbucks and nice outside so we sat in the bed of the truck and talked about this coming week. In the midst of that 2 different guys came up looking for change. Those moments are sacred to me for some reason. One story was solid, one was not but we gave some money to both. I like those moments like when I gave money to the guy in St. Louis on the 4th. I think those moments have God written all over them and I was proud of our crew for how they responded and the second one--his name was Star--had a funny assesment of everybody in our group. Some were right on, mine was not. I can't really post it here because it had a racially insensitive assesment in it but it was good for a laugh nonetheless.
So that is my Sunday. On Thursday I'll be back in Joplin for less that 24 hours to see my family. It will be good. Until then, I'll think about this day here. Hope your weekend was good.
Oh, and you should listen to Open My Eyes by Jeff Anderson. It is very good.
This might be my favorite day of the summer (not including any when I was with my family).
It started with church. Since we're in Memphis we went and worshipped with a church we've been working with for the past few years. I've talked about them before and I don't remember what I've said but it was my first time to be there on Sunday morning. Their pastor-Pastor Jim-is a great man. So cool, so sharp and the church just gives me chills. Inner city, doing everything it can to reflect the city in which it has been placed and in my opinion, being blessed by God because it didn't run to the suburbs. It is the kind of church I'd want to work at if I ever went back to that kind of thing.
It took me a minute to figure out why I liked it so well and then I realized it was the smell. Let me explain...
On our way in from the parking lot I again realized that this was a different place. Since they are trying to reach the city and since they have/do preach a message of come as you are there was a group of guys out front getting their last smoke before heading in for worship. One of them I remembered from spring break. His name is Danny and he guarded the door for us. He's rough looking. Looks like a hell's angel dude but like so many of them has a soft heart. His story includes some major back pain and so he can't work like he could but wants to be a part of the Community and so he helps out any way he can. During greeting time, I went and re introduced myself to him and it was after that as we were singing some Waterdeep I realized my hand reaked, of cigarette. And it was beautiful. The place looks like a cross section of Memphis. Inter racial, suburban, urban, tattoo, a little old lady playing a hymn on the piano for offering, a dude in a suit, a dude that looks like a skinny Jerry Garcia, men hugging its beautiful. To me, it looked a little like heaven only here. Its just cool. I am sure they have their issues, the church isn't perfect becuase none of us is but its just refreshing to see.
After that was brunch as a restaurant called the Blue Monkey. I did a greek omelete which was a delight.
We did some preparation work in the afternoon and then headed to, in my opinion, the finest restaurant in Memphis. Celtic Crossing. It's an irish place with a.m.a.z.i.n.g food. I did the fish and chips but since I don't do fries anymore I did spuds and the salad with their house vinagrette loaded with feta. Did I mention the food is amazing? It is.
After that we headed to Starbucks for, yes, my new favorite Coffee con Leche with sugar in the raw. I've converted a couple more to the CCL faith. It's good stuff and worth the $2.35 for a grande. It was cold in Starbucks and nice outside so we sat in the bed of the truck and talked about this coming week. In the midst of that 2 different guys came up looking for change. Those moments are sacred to me for some reason. One story was solid, one was not but we gave some money to both. I like those moments like when I gave money to the guy in St. Louis on the 4th. I think those moments have God written all over them and I was proud of our crew for how they responded and the second one--his name was Star--had a funny assesment of everybody in our group. Some were right on, mine was not. I can't really post it here because it had a racially insensitive assesment in it but it was good for a laugh nonetheless.
So that is my Sunday. On Thursday I'll be back in Joplin for less that 24 hours to see my family. It will be good. Until then, I'll think about this day here. Hope your weekend was good.
Oh, and you should listen to Open My Eyes by Jeff Anderson. It is very good.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Hooray
It's a Saturday night in Memphis.
I'm currently listening to: Snow Patrol
Yesterday we drove across the entire state of Tennessee. It takes forever. You should look at it on a map, its actually depressing you can drive that long and never leave the same state.
My observation: Almost half the cars broken down on the side of the road in Tennessee are Dodge Neons.
We had a good work day, saw some cool stuff, had a good talk with the interns and enjoyed Interstate BBQ-voted the #2 BBQ in the nation by People magazine. It was amazing. I've had it before but its always good--even better because they have amazing sweet tea.
Tonight we chilled at the mall-I bought a new wallet-then we got money orders at WalMart and finally topped the evening off with a trip to Starbucks where I beat one of the interns in checkers and enjoyed a conversation with my boy and Ang who went and saw Cars today.
The assessment from Carter about Cars: "It's really, really funny."
I also enjoyed my new favorite Starbucks drink: Iced Coffee Con Leche (with 3 sugars in the raw). It is really amazing and I think I may be the only person ordering it since the barista always stands frozen and confused for a moment.
I guess that's about it. About the only bad thing of the day was when we were leaving lunch and I watched a dad take his kid out of Interstate and proceed to beat the sin out of him with a belt. It was honestly one of those moments where you get angry and then sick to your stomach. I was grateful to go look at some projects and get our thoughts on something else. On a good note we are going to have some great projects this week. It's my final week stateside for the summer and I'll be flying back to Joplin on Thursday to change gears and head to San Diego on Friday.
On the agenda: In N Out
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Do You Ever Wonder If Anyone Reads Your Blog?
Another good day of work. It is pretty hot here but honestly doesn't feel that bad and no I wasn't riding around in an air conditioned truck all day today--I had the windows down.
I do think I'm beginning to go through a mid life crisis or something though. I've been extremely bothered lately that my arms are incredibly hairy. I also have added more to my list of things I won't touch this year (no pop for a year). I will now finish the year with no chips and no fries.
On another side note I am again consumed with my weight.
I think I have a brain blockage or something. I can't speak right half the time, I'm beginning to forget things and right now I'm sitting here trying to figure out if I sent an email last night or not. I know, your email tells you these things but mine doesn't when I'm on the road.
I have poision oak. for the second time this summer. Only 2 spots and they are small so let's hope it doesn't spread.
I saw the coolest shirt today. A girl was wearing it at breakfast and I immediately wanted one. It was red and in bold letters simply said TREEHUGGER There was a website but the shirt is not currently for sale. My day was ruined.
On a side note I tried sweet tea at Pal's today-a place Ang loved when she was here. It was delicious. To be honest I actually got the peach tea becuase I heard the normal tasted like urine. Sweet urine is actually how it was described to me.I also drank a Starbucks double shot today. The peach tea is actually called Peachie Tea but I refused to compromise my manhood and call it that. I simply called it peach tea and the lady said "you mean peachie tea" and I responded with a Christlike "whatever". It was 32 oz of bliss that cost me 78 cents. It tasted a lot like peachie O's which is my favorite gummy candy so it was a win.
I guess that's all for today. Enjoy your wednesday which, don't forget dear faithful reader, is my favorite day of the Renovate theme.
One final side note, I was told that bojangles chicken is better that popeyes. I have only had popeyes but had to disagree. Hooray for greaazy jicken and bizcuts. Peace and I am out.
I do think I'm beginning to go through a mid life crisis or something though. I've been extremely bothered lately that my arms are incredibly hairy. I also have added more to my list of things I won't touch this year (no pop for a year). I will now finish the year with no chips and no fries.
On another side note I am again consumed with my weight.
I think I have a brain blockage or something. I can't speak right half the time, I'm beginning to forget things and right now I'm sitting here trying to figure out if I sent an email last night or not. I know, your email tells you these things but mine doesn't when I'm on the road.
I have poision oak. for the second time this summer. Only 2 spots and they are small so let's hope it doesn't spread.
I saw the coolest shirt today. A girl was wearing it at breakfast and I immediately wanted one. It was red and in bold letters simply said TREEHUGGER There was a website but the shirt is not currently for sale. My day was ruined.
On a side note I tried sweet tea at Pal's today-a place Ang loved when she was here. It was delicious. To be honest I actually got the peach tea becuase I heard the normal tasted like urine. Sweet urine is actually how it was described to me.I also drank a Starbucks double shot today. The peach tea is actually called Peachie Tea but I refused to compromise my manhood and call it that. I simply called it peach tea and the lady said "you mean peachie tea" and I responded with a Christlike "whatever". It was 32 oz of bliss that cost me 78 cents. It tasted a lot like peachie O's which is my favorite gummy candy so it was a win.
I guess that's all for today. Enjoy your wednesday which, don't forget dear faithful reader, is my favorite day of the Renovate theme.
One final side note, I was told that bojangles chicken is better that popeyes. I have only had popeyes but had to disagree. Hooray for greaazy jicken and bizcuts. Peace and I am out.
Saturday, July 15, 2006
A Saturday in Tennessee
Okay, I finally have a new look. I figured out I was using a template already in use by at least two others and that bugs me so I've found something I think will be quite fun. Hopefully its easy to read and exciting to look at.
I am currently waiting another 40 minutes for my laundry to finish. It should be amazing. All I hope is that it's all dry when I go down there. I actually had to do 3 loads which is quite a lot, however the machines are rather small. Only 39 minutes for my laundry.
Probably my biggest news is that I have joined the world of the ipod. I cannot express how much fun it is. I've been loading CD's I brought onto it all night and I feel almost capable now. I've wanted one for quite some time since I'm on the road so much and dig music so much. My biggest debate was whether to go with a black one or a white one. I went with white. The clincher was the interns convincing me white was more classic and said ipod more authoritatively or something like that. Anyway, its a 30GB and its quite nice. I currently have 692 songs loaded on it, enough to occupy me without repeating songs for 2.2 days. Or so it tells me. I have used 2.99GB but I have a ton of CD's back at the house that I'll never again need to carry. That's pretty exciting. I do have to admit its depressing all the extras you need to buy like a cover, radio adapter, wall charger but I'll make it through the summer without the last 2 thanks to the interns. I have yet to download any video yet either but I'm sure I'll get to it.
So that's my day. We went to a gay water park but at least it was with good people. I saw more obese Tennessee folks than anyone should have to. I also realized that though many of them cannot afford reliable cars there is no shortage of tattoos. I actually felt lame having only one.
Well, tomorrow its church in Virginia with our buddy Tom. I'm looking forward to it.
Oh, by the way, we're keeping a list of all the restaurants we eat in this summer. So far the list is both impressive and scary. At the end of the summer I'll post and maybe give some reviews. You know, in case you ever travel through Norfolk, NE; Joplin, MO; St. Louis, MO; Johnson City, TN; Memphis, TN and San Diego, CA.
I am currently waiting another 40 minutes for my laundry to finish. It should be amazing. All I hope is that it's all dry when I go down there. I actually had to do 3 loads which is quite a lot, however the machines are rather small. Only 39 minutes for my laundry.
Probably my biggest news is that I have joined the world of the ipod. I cannot express how much fun it is. I've been loading CD's I brought onto it all night and I feel almost capable now. I've wanted one for quite some time since I'm on the road so much and dig music so much. My biggest debate was whether to go with a black one or a white one. I went with white. The clincher was the interns convincing me white was more classic and said ipod more authoritatively or something like that. Anyway, its a 30GB and its quite nice. I currently have 692 songs loaded on it, enough to occupy me without repeating songs for 2.2 days. Or so it tells me. I have used 2.99GB but I have a ton of CD's back at the house that I'll never again need to carry. That's pretty exciting. I do have to admit its depressing all the extras you need to buy like a cover, radio adapter, wall charger but I'll make it through the summer without the last 2 thanks to the interns. I have yet to download any video yet either but I'm sure I'll get to it.
So that's my day. We went to a gay water park but at least it was with good people. I saw more obese Tennessee folks than anyone should have to. I also realized that though many of them cannot afford reliable cars there is no shortage of tattoos. I actually felt lame having only one.
Well, tomorrow its church in Virginia with our buddy Tom. I'm looking forward to it.
Oh, by the way, we're keeping a list of all the restaurants we eat in this summer. So far the list is both impressive and scary. At the end of the summer I'll post and maybe give some reviews. You know, in case you ever travel through Norfolk, NE; Joplin, MO; St. Louis, MO; Johnson City, TN; Memphis, TN and San Diego, CA.
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