Live A Revolution... Every Day

Moving Day

2006-09-06T23:05:00.000-04:00

Toddruth.blogspot.com has transitioned to livearevolution.typepad.com. toddruth.blogspot.com has been put to sleep. Thanks for taking the time to update your blog subscriptions. And if you're linking to my site, thanks for taking the time to updates those links as well.

All Pumped Up

2006-09-04T17:52:00.000-04:00

So Jami and I have had a membership at Anytime Fitness for about two months or so. And I've been working out hard for the past... well... past four days. When I work out, I complete three sets at one station, then go get a drink of water. As I'm walking across the gym, I couldn't help but look at the mirrors. So I finish working out and go home. Again, I'm walking across the bedroom which happens to have a mirror. I look at it. But I don't look the same. How disappointing. So here's my conclusion, the mirrors at the gym are like fun house mirrors. They distort your shape to make you look bigger than you really are... which could either encourage you, or discourage you. Am I wrong? I don't think so. So instead of being all pumped up, my ego was deflated all in one evening. Mirror, mirror, on the wall... you're a LIAR!

House of Poop

2006-09-03T18:25:00.000-04:00

Jami and I went to the Blueberry Festival in Plymouth, Indiana on Saturday. We only stayed for a little bit. It was nearly impossible to navigate through the huge crowd. At the end, Jami had to use the bath room. The only problem, there were only Port 'O Potties to use. I've decided for myself that I will not use those things anymore. I just can't lock myself in a very small, smelly room with other people's fecies and urine. What kind of animals have we become... crapping on other people's crap. And peeing on other people's pee. There has got to be a study done that describes the dangers of using one of these things. So, even though I had to go, I took the chance of urinating on myself by waiting for the restroom in McDonalds... even though that wasn't much better in the end.

Search for A New Hair Style

2006-09-01T22:26:00.000-04:00

So I've had the same hair style for the past five or six years. For the past three months I've wanted something different. But when it's been time for a hair cut, I sit down in the chair and say the same thing. "I need to do something different. I want to grow it out, but... I don't know... oh... let's just do it like the last time." I want to do the number 1, zzzzzzzzzzzzzz, off goes the hair. But that won't fly with Jami. Plus, I just don't think I'd look good with that style. So I don't know. I'm at the point where I'd need another hair cut if I were going to do the same thing. But I want something different. So I'm searching for the hair style that's right for me. They should make a website where you get matched up to the hair style that would fit you the best. Kind of like a dating site, but for hair styles. You could submit your photo, your personality traits and the style you think you may want. Then the site would give you matches of hair styles demonstrated on the photo you submitted. Instead of e-Harmony.com, it would be called -Hair.com. Maybe I'll do this one with the bad mustache and gotee... or not.

7 Reasons Why Todd Cries

2006-08-30T12:07:00.000-04:00

An article title on msn.com popped up on my email homepage entitled, Seven reasons babies cry and how to soothe them. Interesting. So I click on the title and realize that a few of the reasons babies cry are some of the very reasons I cry. Some aren't. But I've put together a list of my seven in no particular order:

I'm Hungry (same as baby) - In addition to getting crabby, I've been known to whine and complain... and stomp my feet... in my head.

I Don't Feel Good (same as baby) - Yup, I'm not proud of it, but I've laid on the couch or in bed curled up under the covers whining to whoever will listen about how bad my throat hurts... not proud of it... but it has happened and will happen again.

I Want To Be Held (similar to baby) - Guys... wait. Married guys, you all know what I'm talking about. There have been nights where I've wanted to... well, where I've wanted to just... cuddle. But it doesn't happen. So I take a deep sigh. Roll over heavily. And go to sleep disappointed... what did you think I was talking about!?

Cubs Are Below 500 - This year it's been a non-stop cry-fest.

Bad Apple Pies from McDonalds - It's a huge let down when I open up my box of apple pies to only find out the crust is burned, the pie is old or there's hardly any filling in the middle. And there's one particular McDonalds I won't go to just for that reason. Every time I've ordered apple pies, they've been horrible.

Staining A Piece of Clothing - There's hardly anything worse than going out somewhere only to find out that something I'm wearing, either has a stain on it, or getting a stain on it that night. I'm better than I use to be. But deep inside I still want to put everything on hold and race back home to change. I HATE wearing clothes with stains on them. HATE it.

Weddings - Well... specifically, Dog the Bounty Hunter's wedding. It was just so... well... so touching to watch him float on a wooden raft in his all-white suit with his sunglasses and mullet. I'm tearing up just typing it.

Random in the Dells

2006-08-28T23:07:00.000-04:00

As we were taking photos, waiting for Adam and Becky and the other kids to arrive back at the hotel, this random kid decides to meander in our shot. Carter literally doesn't know he's behind him. Tyler, well, Tyler knows who belongs and who doesn't belong. We later learn that his parents are in the middle of "checking" in – thus, not "checking" on their kid.

Just before this shot, we finished up eating at one of the great pizza shops in the WORLD, called Unos. Ok, that may be an over statement. Let's just say, the world – lowercase. In any case, the adults decide that everyone gets treats after dinner. And in deciding where to go, we literally have a full conversation between two vehicles in the parking lot on making the decision to have a treat and where to go to have the treat by spelling out every word. I think we created a new language called, splanguage, where you talk in s-p-e-l-l-i-n-g. I guess that's what happens when you have two car loads of kids who know what the word "treat" means but can't yet spell.

Weekend At The Dells

2006-08-22T20:49:00.000-04:00

You. Me. Pool. Now.

This looks like fun!

Whoaaaaaaa!

I can't see. I can't see.

Look at me. I here!

Three amigos!

Are my legs suppose to be able to spread this far?

It's Oreo time.

Dude. You wanna take a drink?

What's up with the elephant behind me?

Typical photo. Tyler laughing and showing off. Carter sitting and staring.

Not sure where Adam and Jacob are. But they should be in this shot too.

And... out!

Wipe Out

2006-08-21T23:20:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, Jami, Carter and myself got to spend three days in the Wisconsin Dells with some of the best people on the planet. It was a blast to take a much needed time out with our best friends, the Callenders, and the McMullens. Here's a quick taste of what our weekend was like. I'll have more photos and stories to tell in the next couple of days.

Communion with Team Mexico

2006-08-17T22:28:00.000-04:00

Tonight was Communion at GCC. Most of the team that went to Mexico got a chance to serve it to about 1,000 people. This ranks near the top of my list. It was a giant priveledge to look person after person in the eye and speak life into them. My role was to serve the cup. So I had the opportunity to remind person after person, "This is Christ's blood shed for you." What an experience. What an honor to be able to remind people of Jesus' sacrifice. What an honor to do it with a team of high caliber individuals whom I had the chance to serve with in Mexico.

Huh?

2006-08-10T18:15:00.000-04:00

In the last week I've been called confusing and mysterious... not sure what that means. Is it good? Is it bad? Is it true? I don't know.

All Gloved Up

2006-08-09T20:39:00.000-04:00

Check out Carter's new Body Glove swim training float suit. WARNING: This is not a lifesaving device. DO NOT leave child unattended while in use. Thanks for the warning. We'll keep that in mind.

Sand In My Crack

2006-08-07T23:09:00.000-04:00

Jami and I bought 250 pounds of sand for Carter to play in. Some of it got in his hair. Some of it went in his mouth. And some of it went – well, you'll have to guess where else some of the sand went.

Ding-a ding-a ding ding ding ding ding

2006-08-06T15:54:00.000-04:00

You are looking at THE WORST chinese food – EVER. I love chinese food. But I've found that there are only a few really good ones. In the whole Indiana/Michigan area we live in, I've only found two or three. So, I really hate trying out new places. We recently found a pretty good one really close by our home. But this past Friday, I found out as I walked into the joint that the ownership changed just two days prior. That itself made me question whether or not I should place an order or go. I decided to order anyway. What the heck, I was already there. Usually when I place an order at one of our good chinese joints, the person taking the order speaks in broken english and yells the order to the chef in chinese. I should have known I was not going to like the food when the person taking the order spoke better english than I did, wrote my order down in english, and then gave it to the chef who happened to be hispanic. When I got the food home, the chicken had a health foody taste, the sauce wasn't spicy and the fried rice wasn't really fried rice. It was white rice browned by a little soy sauce. Needless to say, neither Jami or myself finished our food. I did learn a few good lessons, stick with the good chinese place you know - even if you have to drive 15 minutes out of the way, and leave right away if the order-taker speaks better english than you do. This food was Ding-a ding-a ding ding ding ding crap!

Free at last. Free at last.

2006-08-05T12:00:00.000-04:00

Thank God almighty, we are free at last. Today 11:14 a.m. I took our dog Roxi and dropped her off at the Humane Society. I know that I'll be thought of as cruel by some people. But, oh well. It was time. I actually wanted to do it way earlier than today. But I held out because I wasn't sure that Jami wanted to keep her or not. But now that she's pissing in the house, Jami said it's time. Jami and I thought we were "dog people". But, um, no, we're not. I mean, if the dog didn't shed, piss in the house, if I didn't have to take her out multiple times a day, if I didn't have to worry about stepping in poop... we might be dog people. But we're not. Plus, it is a good time to get rid of her. Carter is only 19 months old and won't miss her at this age. So, Roxi's gone and we're free. Don't worry too much, the Humane Society had a sign up stating that they have the highest adoption rate in the Michiana area... but I did have to sign under this statement:

I, the undersigned hereby agree, that I relinquish all rights and further information regarding the above named animal or animals and agree they shall be disposed of at the discretion of the Humane Society of St. Joseph County.

Did they just say "disposed of?"

Corny

2006-08-04T22:19:00.000-04:00

Carter's latest as he chows on some corn!

Get 2 Step'n

2006-08-03T21:24:00.000-04:00

I love this photo. I've never been there, but I love how the stairs lead up to the beaming light. It's just a cool shot. It looks like if you made it to the top, you'd be surrounded by it. Thing is, it can't happen unless you get to the top. And you can't get to the top unless you take steps in that direction. You have to make the decision move and take that
next step.
So here's the deal. I'm feeling like I'm at a crossroads since returning from Mexico – feeling like there's a next step for me. Truth is, I've been feeling that for a few months, and it was confirmed in Mexico during our first worship time on Saturday. I'm usually not one that gets "freaky God spoke to me" kind of person. And I really don't want to be dramatic. But it was like God gave his "God-nudge" and said, "it's time." It's time to change your old worn out walking shoes and lace up some new cross-trainers. It's time to renew your vision of who "I AM" is and renew your vision of what "I AM" has called you to be. It's time to renew your vision of what "I AM" is asking you to do. That's what hit me the first night in Mexico this year.
At this point I don't know what that looks like. I don't know what all that means. I do know that it's a process and that I'm praying that God will clue me in on what he has in store. And I do know that if I want to make it to the top to be surrounded by the light, I have to do my part and keep taking steps toward that direction.

Storms A Brew'n

2006-08-02T22:59:00.000-04:00

It's 11:04 p.m. And the county above ours has a severe thunderstorm warning. We live 100 feet from that county, so you could say that we have a warning as well. I usually like watching storms roll into our area. But not at night... because I can't see them roll in. As a result, if we have a severe storm warning, I can't get to sleep. I'm usually up flipping through the channels between our local stations and the Weather Channel as I rock back and forth in a fetal position. And it gets worse if the radar picks up rotation in the storms. So, I've got to go. I've got to lay out shoes, break out the flash light and get into position on the floor to monitor the weather.

Working It

2006-08-01T10:41:00.000-04:00

I'm loving the look on people's faces at work when I tell them what happened during my week in Mexico. Some have a dumb-founded look, others have the tell-me-more look, still others have the that's-great-what-you-did-but I-couldn't-do-that look. I'm loving it. If my calculations are correct, I spent about two hours yesterday at work vision casting and telling the story of the Revolution that's going on down in Monterrey. Today, it continues with the sharing of the screensaver of photos I put on my computer. There will be more sharing, story telling, at work and here. All right, who's next... hey Bill... wait up. I've got something to show you... check this out...

7 Years and Counting!

2006-07-31T22:33:00.000-04:00

Jami and I celebrated our 7-year wedding anniversary today. Neither of us really felt like going anywhere to eat – maybe because it was so pit-sweat hot. So we decided on Famous Dave's. The whole evening we felt like the pig was stalking us. He finally came up to our table... I didn't look at him, and Jami gave a half-hearted smile. I think he got the pig-point and moved on. Hope we didn't hurt his feelings. Oh wait, I don't care. No restaurant should be allowed to have a pig wondering aimlessly about... unless that is, we're allowed to pull it's pig-tail.

Happy anniversary! It's been a great 7 years. I can't wait for the next 70.

Staggering Under Burden of Compassion

2006-07-10T06:38:00.000-04:00

Great article from the Los Angeles Times: Staggering Under Burden of Compassion: An Episcopal priest burns out, finds a new approach to faith and writes a book about it.

Favorite response to question in article, "Who does Jesus think you are?"

The answer changes daily. Basically, I'm a middle-aged white woman who's never broken a bone. I'm a child of God on par with anybody sitting on death row. I'm not as wonderful or important as I think I am, nor as wretched.

Live A Revolution b-Votional 1 Thessalonians 4:1, 9, 10

2006-07-07T15:32:00.000-04:00

The following are a few of my thoughts from a homework assignment our Mexico Team received last week.

Christian brothers, we ask you, because of the Lord Jesus, to keep on living in a way that will please God. I have already told you how to grow in the Christian life. 1 Thess. 4v1
It's so easy to get caught up in life. It's easy to get comfortable to the point of simply going through the motions. And I think Paul knew that. He wanted to remind the believers in Thesolonica that living in a way that pleases God is a daily thing. He was saying, "I know that it's easy to forget. It's easy to get caught up in the daily routine. But I'm writing you because I want to remind you that Jesus has taught us how to live. And I'm writing you to remind you there's a way to live that pleases God. Live that way!" It's easy for me to get caught up in my daily routine. And I need to be reminded that there's a way to live that pleases God. Jesus, help me to remember that there's a way to live that pleases and glorifies you... and help me to live that way!

Regarding life together and getting along with each other, you don't need me to tell you what to do. You're God-taught in these matters. Just love one another!You're already good at it; your friends all over the province of Macedonia are the evidence. Keep it up; get better and better at it. 1 Thess. 4v9-10

Paul, instead of just saying, "Yo guys. Keep on loving." and that be the end of it, instead encouraged them and commended them for loving others... but not for loving others with just the love they have - for loving others with the love of God - with the love that God taught. It's love that's bigger than we could ever offer on our own. In essence, Paul is saying, "great job for letting the Spirit of God work through you!" "Great job for being Spirit-led!" How many times do I love with the love that Todd has to give. God wants us to love with the love that He has to give... which is much bigger than I could ever love. God wants me to be Spirit led in my love that I give. In addition, when we address others, we can learn from Paul. Not only does he tell these dudes to keep on loving. He encourages them and commends them for what they've done and allowed God to do through them. How many times do I simply tell people what to do... or simply ask someone to do something. God wants us to encourage and commend people for what they've already done. Secondly, these guys are loving on people who are close to them in likeness, proximity or social status. These guys are loving on people who are not like them - who are different then they are - who are far away from them in distant lands. Very practically, God is asking me to love on people who are very different than I am - who are very far from where I live - He is asking me to love the very people we are going to see in a few short days... not only when I get there. But God is asking that I love them now... in praying for them now... in how I prepare my heart now... in how I handle my relationship with God now... because it's now that I begin to love these people we are going to. It's now that I put myself in a place to be able to love on them when we get down there physically. Jesus, help me to get to the place where I am loving on these people we are going to see now. Help me to prepare my heart and my mind. Put these people on my heart so heavy that I can't help but pray for them. And Jesus, help me to love others with a love that's bigger than me - with your love.

What A Difference A Year Makes

2006-07-06T22:21:00.000-04:00

So, I'm went back and checked out old blog posts that I had posted a year ago and came across these photos we took of Carter last July... it's pretty cool to see how he's changed. He couldn't even walk this time last year!

Last July.

This July.

Last July – And still one of my all time favorites.

This July – One of my new all time favorites.

Last July in the sand.

This July – Still likes the sand!

Carter and Wes – Jessica's boyfriend. Carter likes him... he's in!

Carter and Jessica. Good picture Jess!

FIFA World Cup 2006

2006-06-21T12:18:00.000-04:00

I've never really liked soccer, or futbol, all that much. In fact, in high school, our entire baseball team called the soccer team a bunch of communists... I don't know why really... it was pretty stupid. In any case, I've gotten into the World Cup this year. Watched USA tie on Saturday. And just got done keeping up to date on how Mexico was doing this morning on MatchCast... losers 2-1 to Portugal. But Mexico still moves on to the next round because Iran and Angola tied 1-1 in the other game this morning... talk about a nail biter... I was completing paperwork and jumping in my chair as I monitored the two games. Tonight - Argentina and the Netherlands square off. Can't wait... but in any case... Viva Mexico!

Happy Father's Day

2006-06-18T21:49:00.000-04:00

Here's Carter's latest creation. He made it all by himself. It's a piece of paper cut into the shape of a tie – ok, maybe he didn't cut it – but he did use a dropper to drop the ink that made the colors.

It's War

2006-06-17T21:44:00.000-04:00

So this year I've gotten real serious about patching up and trying to take care of our yard. It was going great until I woke up and found that we've got moles... I'm not talking about one mole... there's got to be a whole family of moles with one goal... keeping the Ruth family down. Well, it's war. And I want their heads. Down with the moles.

Parents Not Making Grade

2006-06-16T12:37:00.000-04:00

Interesting article in the Chicago Sun-Times, Teens Say Adults Not Making Grade. According to the article, some of the lower scoring categories include: leading by example, being honest, spending quality time with family and really listening to and understanding kids in their age group.

Student Quotes:

“When I leave home in the morning my parents are asleep; when I get home from school they are at work; when they come home, I’m asleep.”
“We rarely get a chance to see each other."
“Let’s turn the tables, you may learn from one of our lectures”
“Please get rid of the clever clichés and simple life solutions, there is no easy button”
“’A’ means perfect. We don’t want perfect parents, we want parents who are consistent”
“Adults hate it when we take a page from their young lives”

Teen Recommendations
Teen/Adult Study Guides
Uhlich Children's Advantage Network

Matt and Julie's Wish List

2006-06-16T11:05:00.000-04:00

Here it is:

Wish List:
• For the kids: Individualized snacks, such as: little bags of crackers, cookies, fruit, apple sauce, etc; Season 2 or 3 of the Brady Bunch on DVD; age appropriate books (see ages below) -- Corinna especially likes to read, and Chloe too. Games: Connect Four or Checkers; Plug-in night lights

• For Corinna - age 6: Size 13 shoes/sandals; she says "a barbie"

• For Chloe - age 6: Size 13 shoes/sandals; she says, "a pink, purple or blue purse...or something that BIG girls play with"

• For Jake - age 5: Size 12 shoes/sandals; he says "Ice Age 2" (but I'm assuming it won't be out quite yet?)...or maybe some other movie appropriate for a 5 yr old boy

• For Cameron/"Cami" - age 4: Size 11 shoes/sandals; she says, "a barbie"

• For Caroline - age 19 months: she says, "Size 4 (or 5) Pampers Premium Diapers; Size 7 shoes/sandals; and Chewable Children's Tylenol (ages 2-6)

• For Matt and Julie (and the kids): Canned Chef-Boy-R-Dee Ravioli, Family Sized Craft Macaroni and Cheese Deluxe; any cool new worship CD, Crystal Light Iced Tea (peach or raspberry), Taco Bell Sauce (Mild, Hot and Fire), Season 1 or 2 of SmallVille (on DVD), Season 1 or 2 of Alias (on DVD), twizzlers licorice

• For Julie: Shower gel, Venus Razor Blade replacements; Jelly Bellies; Black Cherry Vanilla Diet Coke; peeps marshmellow candies

• For Matt: Mach 3 Razor Blade replacements, Edge shaving cream; Dr. Pepper Raspberry ‘n Cream (or whatever it's called); Reese Peanut Butter Cups, Peanuts and sugar-free wintergreen gum

You're Invited To Join Our Team

2006-06-13T11:34:00.000-04:00

Let me tell you about two people who are making a difference in the lives of kids in Mexico - Matt and Julie. For teenagers growing up in a children's home not only is continued education financially out of reach, but at the same time there is often very little emotional support from one's family to go on to high school or college. Back2Back believes that two keys to offering hope for the future are a relationship with Jesus and an education. By offering the chance to go on to high school, Matt, Julie and Back2Back are attempting to break the cycle of poverty and help develop more stable individuals and parents for the next generation. Their ministry currently covers the educational expenses for nineteen students. God has called Matt, Julie and Back2Back to fill the void of parental support these kids so desperately need. What God is doing in these kids' lives is not just good news, but history in the making. In fact, Matt and Julie got to witness a young man named, Cesar, graduate from high school this past April and is currently attending college. This probably would not have happened if it were not for Back2Back pouring their lives into Cesar. What an awesome snapshot of the impact that Matt and Julie have as they show Jesus to these kids.

Our mission trip to Mexico is right around the corner. Not only do we get to love on kids who don't have family to love on them, but we get to work along side two of the coolest missionaries on the planet - Matt and Julie.

These two people (who are from our home church) have not only dedicated their lives to Jesus, they have dedicated their lives, and have become a mother and a father to children who have none. This couple is a great example of 1 Thessalonians 2:8 - "We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well, because you had become so dear to us." It is a privilege and an honor to have the opportunity to give a part of my life with them for a week.

I say all of that because Corey and I are trying something crazy and new (at least for us). We want to give the blog world an opportunity to jump on board and make a huge impact on a family that is making a huge impact in Mexico. So here's the deal, you've got an opportunity to be a long distance team member for Mission Mexico. We want Matt and Julie to know that they've got partners around the country - and possibly crazier, around the world.

We've twisted their arms and received a "Wish List" of items, that if they could get, they would want. Now these guys would be the first to say that they don't need this stuff. But we want to bless them with extras that they could use.

If you're interested in participating, shoot me an email (toddcruth@hotmail.com), or leave a comment with your email address so I can send you the list of items.

I'm excited to give you the opportunity to give to a family who is living what it means to be Jesus. You have a chance to bring joy and laughter to a family who is bringing the same to children who would have a hard time finding that were it not for Matt, Julie, Back2Back and Jesus. I know that it might be hard to think of it this way, but when you give an item off of this list, you are positively affecting the lives of these same children. I know that you will come through in a huge way! Thank you so much - from me and Corey, on behalf of Matt and Julie, and Back2Back.

Mexico 2005

Criminal Golf-carting

2006-06-12T17:00:00.000-04:00

If you own, or are thinking of owning your own golf cart, you might want to read this article first,Golf Cart Crimes Rise in Georgia Town. Aparently, in 2005, there were 16 drunken-driving cases, 41 thefts and 182 citations involving golf carts — more than double the amount five years ago. One particular quote I love came from Mary Beckham, 64, a retiree.

She said her main complaints were speeding, hogging the path, overcrowded
carts, driving on the street instead of the path and not blowing the horn before
entering tunnels.

Speeding!? You can speed in a golf cart. If that's the case, I would have figured that out a long time ago!

Storefront Churches

2006-06-12T09:44:00.000-04:00

The Chicago Tribune has an interesting story about "Storefront Churches" in their newspaper today entitled, Hardy Souls: As neighborhoods change, small urban churches find a way to survive. Here's a great quote at the end of the article from John Cusick, a priest of the landmark Old St. Patrick's Church:

"I watch as services let out and I see something other people need to see.

"I see people dressed to the nines, in hats and dresses, suits and ties. Many of these people spend their week getting pushed around, scratching out a life, having people stare right through them.

"But here they are, walking out of these little churches looking like a million bucks, in essence saying: 'We are more than we might seem. We are the sons and daughters of God.'"

iPod U2

2006-06-11T22:41:00.000-04:00

The iPod U2 Special Edition makes its return. The red Click Wheel and U2's signatures engraved on the back give it some cool features. In addition, if you purchase this iPod, you receive 30 minutes of exclusive bonus video featuring music and interviews with the band. Of course, I'm sure Apple will release this video to the public in the near future found on iTunes... more money for them. Special addition cost is exclusively $329.00.

Success!

2006-06-09T06:45:00.000-04:00

"What would it be like to have success in this life? Your definition of success depends on where your imagination has taken you." Dwayne Roberts. One Thing. page 44

iPods More Popular Than Beer

2006-06-08T09:15:00.000-04:00

The latest biannual survey completed by the Student Monitor revealed that the iPod is more cool than beer drinking. According to 1,200 students from 100 different U.S. college campuses, iPods are more "in" than all alcohol-related activities. The only other time beer wasn't number one was in 1997 when the Internet came in first... I'm sure Al Gore was pleased with that...

Complete Story: iPods More Popular Than Beer

More Evidence I'm Aging

2006-06-07T11:40:00.000-04:00

So, I am definitely getting older. I'm not ancient, but I'm not young either. This was the most comfortable spot for me last night - on my back. You see, I had just changed Carter on the couch. Next step, wrestling time. Of course, when you wrestle, you have to throw your kid in the air. So, while I was sitting down, I decided to throw Carter up in the air four or five times. And of course, you can't just throw him up regular, you have to do tricks, like spinning him around. And of course, Carter doesn't stay straight while he's in the air. He gets a bug eyed grin giggle and contorts himself in a Taylor Hicks-like happy stance. So I didn't notice that I had done anything to my back until I went out to the kitchen to get a plastic bag for Carter's poopy diaper. As I bent down I could feel a sharp, achey pain. So for the rest of the night, and still today, I've got a back strain because I'm a 30 year old idiot who chose to throw a year and a half old baby in the air from a sitting position. And that's more evidence that I'm not getting any younger.

Race Spotters

2006-06-06T12:14:00.000-04:00

Live A Revolution b-Votional – Race Spotters
Galatians 6:1-3

I'm almost embarrassed to say this, but I'm starting to get into NASCAR. I still don't really care who wins. And I especially don't care if the winning car is a Ford or a Chevy. I'm not that much of a redneck. But, I love to watch for the crashes - not to see them wreck, even though they have some pretty awesome pile-ups - I watch to see who can navigate through the big ones. Sometimes, like the one above, the only way a driver can get through a huge crash, is to listen to their race spotter.The spotter is a team member with a radio who's placed in a high position where they can see as much of the entire track as physically possible. You see, the driver's vision from inside the race car is pretty limited - he just can't see everything. It's the job of the spotter to make sure his driver is safe during the race. You know, we're kind of like the NASCAR drivers, and God wants us to use spotters as well. Check it out:

Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's heavy loads, and in this way you will fulfill the
law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself.
Galatians 6:1-3

You see, each one of us are running around in the race of life. We're speeding through - school, work, friends, family, free time, children, athletics - our schedules are packed. We're tired. Cranky. Hungry. Stressed out. Burnt out. Sad. Happy. Angry. There is a ton going on and, like the NASCAR driver, we just can't see everything. We've got blind spots. We don't always know when we're about to crash. That's why it's important to get someone to help us out - who can look ahead and tell us honestly that we're heading for a burnout, that we're about to crash - and who can point us in the right direction to get through the pile-ups of life. Because when we deal with all we have going on, we can't always see when we're about to total our life. Sometimes, someone else has a better view of our life, our attitude and our emotions. Sometimes someone else can spot better than we can when we're about to screw up. And even when we do see life getting messy, we need someone to guide us through it... we need a Life Spotter. You see, God didn't intend for us to live alone - he didn't intend for us to navigate life by ourselves successfully... because we can't. So go to someone you trust today and grab them for your Life Spotter. And then, you yourself, help your friends get around or go through their next big accident.

The Next Stage

2006-06-05T11:05:00.000-04:00

So this past May I hit the big Three Zero. It still feels weird to say, "I'm thirty," when someone asks how old I am. But I don't really feel any different. Well, I didn't until some co-workers asked me to go golfing this past Wednesday. I haven't gone golfing in two years. It has never really appealed to me – that is, not until last week. It actually appeals more to me than playing softball – which I've played since I was 19... 11 years ago. Now, I find myself looking online to find out how I can correct my slice. I guess, now at age thirty, this is the next stage in life... golfing – and I'm actually looking forward to it... so, yeah, I'm thirty... now I have to find a way to get my golf score down from 144 (yuck).

Basket Case

2006-06-04T23:15:00.000-04:00

I feel like I have to confess this. Some people have to live out of a suitcase. It's just they way their lives are situated. Not a big choice. I on the other hand, don't have to live out of a suitcase. It's a good thing. But for the last month (and this is where the confession comes in), I have been living out of a laundry basket. I don't know how or exactly when it started, but, it's been going on for a while. And I don't even like it. I've wanted to put my clothes away, but haven't. And then I kick myself every morning when I have to dig through for socks. And I kick myself even more when I have to iron clothes I wouldn't have had to if I would have just taken two seconds to hang them up. So, I finally broke down tonight, but only when I realized that the one basket I have been living out of became two. PATHETIC! Now all of my clothes are put away... that is, until the next time we do laundry.

Style'n Footwear

2006-06-03T17:10:00.000-04:00

It's amazing that the person who makes one of the biggest fusses over wearing socks with sandles, would dress our son this way. I am, frankly, very surprised. I wonder if I should be expecting him to begin wearing Michigan sportswear!

You've Got to be Kidding Me

2006-06-02T12:22:00.000-04:00

(AP) Paris Hilton says her upcoming album will be a mix of reggae, pop and hip-hop, with the first single being a reggae song called "Stars Are Blind." I'm not sure what's worse, the new American Idol album, or this one... wait – ya – no contest – this one will be.

Lookin Good

2006-05-30T22:10:00.000-04:00

Check out Carter's new hairdo. Like his stylist said, she took away our baby... he looks like a little man.

Look mama, I'm ready for school. I can't believe he's old enough to wear a backpack.

I Have Been Idolized

2006-05-29T21:55:00.000-04:00

Ok. I have to admit. I did – I did buy a couple of songs from this CD. Only Taylor, Chris and Lisa. I did not buy Katherine McGruffy or Buckwheat. I may pick up Elliott if he cuts a CD. But I'll never buy anything from Chicken Little. So ya, I've been Idolized... oh, I like Taylor... ya I admit it.

Carter At The Park

2006-05-28T21:37:00.000-04:00

What would Memorial Day weekend be without a trip to the park?

Listen closely. I thought I was already in Monterrey, Mexico!

Here I am!

Weeeeeeeee!

Everything you need to know is in a fishbowl... inside joke.

Just chillin.

15 more years until the real thing dadda!

What up?

Whoa. That's a long way down.

Vroom. Vroom. Vroom.

2006-05-23T00:04:00.000-04:00

Ya, he's only about 16 months old... and driving!

Daddy Day
This past Election Day, Carter and I took time to hang out at Barnes & Noble.

We were going to go to the mall after Barnes & Noble... but as you can see, we didn't make it.

Bath Time

Time for A Walk

2nd Saturday - Mexico Hangout

2006-05-13T12:18:00.000-04:00

This morning I got the chance to serve beside some quality people... Jim, Scotty, Amanda, Rachel, Candice, Heather (all are going to Mexico in July), and Eric... not going to Mexico this year, but still a quality guy. We jumped on a bus and headed to downtown South Bend where we built some walls, bagged some groceries, and did whatever else they asked us to in order to help people in low-income housing know they matter to God. 2nd Saturday is atcually a new ministry designed by Granger Community Church to give people the opportunity to serve once a month. There was a good number of people who showed up... I'm bad with numbers so I'm not going to guess at how many... let's just say that I was impressessed with how many that showed up. In any case, it was a great opportunity to take this time and serve along side of those I will be serving with south of the border. Great job guys!

Eric and myself... nice... seriously... nice.

Eric with a nail gun... forget the hammer!

Watch your hands... my turn now!

I would have more pictures, but I walked out the door without my camera. These shots are from my phone. In any case, great job to everyone who showed up... including Levi, who went to Feed the Children to work... yes... great job dude!

1-411

2006-05-08T12:11:00.001-04:00

I'm a big fan of Information (1-411). Jami doesn't like it when I use it. Probably because it costs like a cagillion dollars. But my philosophy is this, information is priceless. I love being able to get a number in Mud Butte, South Dakota while driving in my car... ok, so I've never called anyone in Mud Butte, South Dakota... but there really is a Mud Butte, South Dakota. I looked it up on Mapquest.com. So now that I know there really is a Mud Butte, South Dakota, I want to call information and say, "Mud Butte, South Dakota," when they ask for city and state. And when they ask, "What listing please," I want to say, "I don't care. I just want to talk to anyone who lives in Mud Butte."

So, in any case, last Thursday I wanted to check on a movie at a particular theatre... we were in the parking lot of GCC. Consequently we didn't have a phone book. So I asked Jami if she knew the number. She didn't. You know what that means... 1-411 to the rescue - because I'm too lazy to walk back into the church to get a phone book. Jami gave me a dirty look. I laughed. I called 1-411. City, state, listing. I told the lady. She says, "Are you looking for a particular movie?" "Huh? Yes I am." "What is it?" "Huh? Why?" "Well, I can give you the time it's playing." Again, "Huh? So you're telling me you're going to give me movie information. You mean, Information now extends to movie times?" "Um, yeah. What movie do you need." "Huh? Well, ok. Mission Impossible III." "Well, it's not playing at this theatre. But it is playing at Show Place 16. Would you like the times for that one?" Again, "Huh? Oh no, that's ok. Thanks." That was literally the conversation I had with 1-411. She must have been from the South... my next question I will have for them... how do I get to Mud Butte, South Dakota!

We've Got Letters...

2006-05-02T12:47:00.000-04:00

Sorry, I'm a David Letterman fan. In any case, I have finally sent out my letter for Mexico Tres (Three). This is the third time I will be going, and to be honest, I still love the letter writing part of it. It gives me a small chance to cast vision in one of my areas of passion. I cannot wait to go.

Adios!

The End is the Beginning

2006-05-01T12:45:00.000-04:00

Book Notes - The Jesus Creed: Loving God, Loving Others

A Society with Perspective Chapter 18
our view of heaven gives us a perspective on life

our vacaction of choice, so I've heard, corresponds to our view of heaven

eternal standing matters a great deal to Jesus, and he talks about it quite often

what matters is that the eternal state is one of fellowship in the love of God and love of others

anything established around Jesus, whether earthly or eternal, will be a society

the end is the beginning. That is, one's view of the eternal (the end) gives one perspective in this life (our beginning each day)

practice now what you'll have to put into practice then

we are to live the Jesus Creed now because it is the eternal plan of God

christians sometimes read the Bible too often to "figure things out," to come to terms with a theological debate, or to settle an old score. They read it for information

in reading the Bible for knowledge, we can (and often do) miss the mission: for Abba to love us and for us to love Abba.

put away the study aids, commentaries, group Bible-study materials; get out a piece of paper and a pen and write down what we learn about God in a passage of Scripture

we are challenged to make fellowship with Jesus' society a regular feature of our lives - in the now. In fellowship with others we can begin our eternity.

Things I Love About My Wife

2006-04-28T10:58:00.000-04:00

she's...
an encourager
loyal
a hard worker
outspoken
honest
my biggest fan
my biggest legitimate critic
a mother who holds her son accountable
a wife who holds her husband accountable
a perfectionist
allows her house to stay messy with her son's toys
a leader
a follower of the right people
a friend
hopeful
logical
methodical
lovable
forgiving
inspiring
loving
creative
motivated
teachable
giving
helpful
funny
beautiful
caring
respectful
wise
fun...
The list will go on throughout the day as I think of more... I Love You!

Team Building Exercise

2006-04-27T01:21:00.000-04:00

Check this out. A woman is sueing her old employer for $1.2 million dollars for the humiliation she suffered while being spanked. Her previous employer said it was part of a team building exercise in which "employees were paddled with rival companies' yard signs as part of a contest that pitted sales teams against each other, according to court documents. The winners poked fun at the losers, throwing pies at them, feeding them baby food, making them wear diapers and swatting their buttocks." [click Spanked employee seeks $1.2 million to read full article.]

Wow. I can't believe a boss would allow such a thing. Who would attempt to build a team this way!? That leads me to another great question, "How am I building my team. What do I do to create an atmosphere of positive team building?" Because if there's no plan to build my team, then it's almost, if not as bad, as the above example. Team building has to be intentional, but it doesn't have to be intense. It can be simple. And, it can be applied to other areas of life besides ministry or work – like my family. And that's the bigger question for me... how am I building a positive team atmosphere in my family? Because if I'm not intentionally pursuing that, then I'm simply throwing pies, feeding baby food and swatting butts (metaphorically of course – Carter's almost a year and a half and done with baby food!), instead of being encouraging.

I've Been Spammed!

2006-04-26T01:04:00.000-04:00

Spamming has hit every area of our lives. Not only do I get spam from email solicitors and political phone calls that mis-pronounce a candidate's name (the least you could do is learn how to say the name correctly!), but now I'm getting spam phone calls from our church telling us about what's going on. Here's why it stinks for us... our voicemail offers no way for us to push delete in the middle of the message. And wouldn't you know it, we usually get these canned messages when we're away so we have to stand in the dining room holding the phone away from our ear until the long-winded message ends... and believe me, the messages can be looooonnnng, making this technology... well... more annoying then cool. But if it is actually working, I guess I can take one for the team... but it's still annoying! ;)

Construction Time

2006-04-25T01:55:00.000-04:00

It was actually suppose to be pretty easy. Start dinner, build a wagon, go for a walk. Piece of cake... well, did I say build a wagon? Ok, so anytime I have to put something together, you can count on one thing... it ain't easy. I don't care if you have to simply snap on a few wheels and a pull bar. It isn't easy. Like tonight. Put on four wheels and a handle you use to pull the wagon with. Should be relatively simple... not for me! I begin with putting the bars that are suppose to go on the front of the wagon on the back. Consequently, I have to rip the snaps off the wheels, bending the bars and saying over and over and over again, "This isn't good. This just can't be good. These bars aren't suppose to bend that way." Well, after 45 minutes of removing the rear wheels, we begin to put the wagon together the right way. And after we install the front wheels, correctly, we begin to put on the rear wheels – only, we're now missing a critical part that we need to finish the project. So, after an hour of putting together a wagon that should only have taken 15 minutes, it sits unfinished in the hallway outside Carter's room... oh ya, and we never got to take the walk.

Book Notes – The Jesus Creed: Loving God, Loving Others

2006-04-24T23:15:00.000-04:00

Book Notes – The Jesus Creed: Loving God, Loving Others

A Society of Mustard Seeds Chapter 14
for Jesus the kingdom is about the ordinariness of loving God and loving others. The kingdom is as common as sparrows, as earthy as backyard bushes, as routine as breakfast coffee and as normal as aging.

the kingdom of God is the transforming presence of God in ordinary humans who live out the Jesus Creed.

ordinary acts of sacred love demonstrate the extraordinary transformation of life.

Jesus finds the presence of his kingdom at work in the most unlikely of persons.

the kingdom of Jesus spreads like seeds, one at a time, from person to person.

for Jesus, the big event is the little person.

connections change lives.

it is something of a risk to be around Jesus.

A Society for Justice Chapter 15
any look at the Bible will reveal to you that kingdom justice concerns restoring humans to both God and others.

what distinguishes a follower of Jesus is a Jesus Creed – inspired love that lives out the value of justice for the hungry, thirsty, estranged, unclothed, sick and imprisoned.

not all of us are called to work in the justice system, but we are empowered to restore justice in our society. One person at a time; one change at a time; wherever we can.

A Society of Restoration Chapter 16
God isn't in the show-off business or in the convincing business

miracles are performed by Jesus out of love and are done to restore humans to God and to others.

Jesus is intent on creating a society that transforms life as we know it, he wants people to be restored.

we are wired in such a way that being excluded or classified by religious institutions influences our perceptions of God.

purity is not contagious until Jesus comes in.

Jesus is in the middle of it all, GRATEFUL for this society of ordinary people who come to terms with his Creed.

Our Son... the Monkey Boy

2006-04-23T11:07:00.000-04:00

He's available for birthdays, parties and Bar Mitzvahs. Soon, he'll be at local zoos throwing his poop at onlookers.

My Little... Well... My Little Geek

2006-04-17T21:11:00.000-04:00

I received this photo on my phone during our Mission Mexico meeting tonight. I love my little boy... even when he looks like a geek!

Call to Greatness

2006-04-13T01:45:00.000-04:00

Live A Revolution b-Votional – Call to Greatness Micah 6:8

I've run across this new show on MTV called, Call to Greatness – five dudes on a mission to break as many crazy records as possible. It's an awesome show. Who wouldn't like watching someone attempt to break the record for the furthest marshmallow nose blow and catch!? You know, God has called each one of us to greatness. Check it out:

But he's already made it plain how to live, what to do, what GOD is looking for in men and women. It's quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, And don't take yourself too seriously – take God seriously. Micah 6.8

What? I thought the call to greatness was something more than that. I thought it meant doing something great, huge – something out of the ordinary – like breaking a world record. You see, that's what a lot of us think – that a call to greatness means being the next Rick Warren, David Crowder, Bill Gates, Doug Fields, Mother Teresa – that it means having a huge church, huge student ministry – insert what it might look like for you. And wanting those things aren't bad. It's not wrong. I'm not saying don't try big things. No! Take that leap if God tells you too. But, what if the call to greatness has to do with everyday life. Life in our town. Life in our school. Life in our job. Life in the everyday littleness we live in. In every little hour. In every little minute. In every little second. What if the call to greatness really has nothing to do with the huge extraordinary events. What if it has to do with the ordinary moments in our lives each day – you know, the little decisions we have to make. I think that is what God is saying above. He's saying, "Yo, check this out. You want to know how to be great? You want to know what greatness looks like? You want to know what you're calling is? It's in the everyday stuff man." You see, a lot of times I lose my focus by thinking about what great things I want to accomplish – dreaming about what great things I want to do. What if being focused meant making sure I am fair and just to people. That I be compassionate and loyal in my love to my wife, son, family, friends, co-workers, and others. And that I don't take myself too seriously, but instead take God seriously by walking with him. You see, Jesus came into our neighborhood. Sure he did miracles. But he lived life daily and followed Micah 6.8 in the ordinary moments of each day. Yeah, Nehemiah rebuilt the wall. That was huge. But he and others rebuilt it one stone at a time. So you see, this call to greatness is greater than anything we could ever dream of – because this call to greatness is a lifestyle – it's a lifestyle that is devoted to God, and devoted to people. That's true greatness... live it out now.

Random Thought

2006-04-12T18:52:00.000-04:00

I've decided to drink more water, and take the stairs.

Isn't your life better for knowing that!

Enjoying the Day

2006-04-11T01:28:00.000-04:00

Here's Carter's first day to really enjoy playing outside. Everything is so new to him. It's cool to watch him wander around and get dirty. He really is a little boy, dirt boogers and all!

I can climb up and slide down all by myself. Quick, somebody meet me at the bottom!

I hope there are no birds above me!

I love playing outside! This flower is for momma.

The following are recent shots of Carter and his floppy hat:

It's really called a floppy hat?

Doesn't Taylor off American Idol dance like this?

Mexico 2006

2006-04-10T01:44:00.000-04:00

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Here's what has been on my mind the last couple of days. Mexico 2006 is just a few short months away. Above are a few photos from last year.

On Trial

2006-04-09T12:12:00.000-04:00

Well, yesterday afternoon, Comcast came out to our home to install high-speed internet. We signed up for a four-month trial run and I told Jami that we'll go back to dial-up when the four months is up. I can't believe how fast I can download podcasts now. Instead of clicking on a couple of podcasts and going to bed, only to wake up and find that AOL had unexpectedly signed off, I can download huge files in a matter of seconds... sa-weet! Email is faster... life is well... life is more complete with high-speed internet. Ok, maybe that's a little dramatic. But... it's a dramatic change to go from 1986 to 2006 in internet technology. So, four months... hmmmm... that's funny. Sure, we'll go back to dial-up in four months... ha, ha, ha, h... I don't think so.

P.S. Now I've got to figure out what other upgrades we can try out... Digital Cable, maybe out cell phones have features we can try out... there's got to be others out there... I've got some thinking to do.

Bath Time

2006-04-08T15:32:00.000-04:00

As you can see, I just got done with my bath. If you look close, you can see this white stuff coming out of my ears... I guess you call it a cotton ball. I have to get that stuff shoved in my ears when I take a bath so water doesn't get in my ears. But I'm having fun with it. I yank it out when my mommy isn't looking. And then she has to re-stuff another one in there and put vasoline on it all over again.

Can You Hear Me Now?

2006-04-03T11:18:00.000-04:00

Nice gown! Carter got tubes put in his ears this morning at about 7:30. We had to get to the hospital at 6 a.m.! We registered downstairs and were told that someone from OSC would be down to get us. What the heck is OSC? You would think they would speak to us so we could understand. In any case, there were like 15 other people downstairs waiting. So when the person from OSC (later learned it means Outpatient Surgery Center) came down to get us, they actually came down to get all 15 people. It was like they were herding cattle into a barn! Felt very weird and not personal at all. Carter's sleep doctor (can't spell what he's really called) and ear doctor were very good though. So Carter's now back home running around. Oh ya, the doc said Carter had a lot of fluid in his ears the consistency of Elmer's Glue.

Around the House

2006-03-29T00:13:00.000-05:00

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Here's the latest shots of Carter in action.

Seriously... I'm Suppose to Go... In There!?

2006-03-28T10:19:00.000-05:00

This is our restroom at work. As you can tell, there are no doors on the stalls. I already have a hard, if not impossible time going... well... going in a public stall. And since there are no doors on these, I most certainly will not be going... no matter what kind of emergency I have going on!

I'm 14...

2006-03-08T09:41:00.000-05:00

...months old that is. Here are my 14 month old pictures. I got them taken at Picture People. My parents aren't happy with the quality so they said that they are going to bring their digital camera with them the next time they go to the mall so we can do our own photo shoot. But it's not the photo that makes the baby, it's the baby that makes the photo...

Here We Go...

2006-02-26T08:22:00.000-05:00

There are a few things that are hard to get back to doing once I take an unexpected break from doing them – putting my clothes away (I literally have baskets all over our room sometimes), exercising and lifting weights, and blogging. The last couple of weeks have been... well... they've been crazy. I nearly got pneumonia after waiting to see a doctor for two weeks (the doctor literally said I was two days away), interviewed and hired for a new job (the process took six hours), I job shadowed for two and a half days (I start the new job on Monday) – which means I will have worked like 13 or 14 days straight. And in the middle of all of that we had to try to figure out how to re-work Carter's schedule. Things happen fast and we've been busy, but now I'm at a point where I can sit down and get back to the daily routine of the great experience of blogging. I know that I haven't posted any updates on Carter in the recent month. Don't worry. They'll be coming this week. So here we go...

$15 Dollar iTunes Gift Card and Dial-Up

2006-02-15T09:06:00.000-05:00

So Jami was great and got me an iTunes gift card. I've heard about Sleeper Cell on Showtime, but have never seen it because, well, we don't have Showtime. So I thought, what a great opportunity to watch it. Since it's an hour long program and we still have dial-up, I waited until I went to bed to start the downloading process... that was 11:30 p.m. When I woke up the next morning at 5 a.m. I checked on where it was half expecting it to be done. It wasn't. In fact, it wasn't even a quarter of the way done! So I left a note on the keyboard so that the computer wouldn't be bothered so it could have a solid eight hours to finish. But I get a phone call around 8:45 a.m. from Jami telling me that the download had stopped and that there was an error message waiting for me to look at. So, it is very unfortunate, but with dial-up I won't be able to download this show. Looks like I'll have to find a way around it. Now, hopefully it gave me back the $1.99 and change it cost me to start the download!

24-Hour Starbucks

2006-02-12T14:53:00.000-05:00

Not that I'm ever up at 2:30 in the morning, but if I was I could travel 10 minutes to Starbucks for a latte. That's right, we've (South Bend, Indiana) got the first 24-hour Starbucks in our region. I've probably got Notre Dame to thank for that one. There's a small part of me that wants to walk through the doors in nothing but a pair of running shorts with bed head and order a Venti Latte with 2% milk... but that won't happen. Happy Starbucking!

Starbucks now offers java anytime of day OR night

Minister Arrested Mid-Sermon

2006-02-12T14:30:00.000-05:00

Chicago police arrested a Lutheran minister as he was delivering his message last Sunday morning on a Criminal Tresspassing charge. The arrest stems from an internal dispute among members of the church, said Monique Bond, spokeswoman for the Chicago Police Department. Police apparently took the board's word that McCants was fired, said the Rev. William H. Ameiss, president of the Northern Illinois District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod based in west suburban Hillside. But Ameiss said he thinks the board removed McCants in violation of the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church's constitution, which requires the board to go to the synod to resolve a dispute over a pastor. "They have removed a pastor inappropriately," Ameiss said. "The real tragedy is the ministry gets put on hold for a power struggle." "Personally, I am exhausted by these wars. That is one issue. The other issue is whether the police were overstepping their authority," said Ernest Robinson, a 30-year church member and McCants supporter who estimates that the congregation has about 60 members.

Comments... that seems like a pretty harsh punishment for not being a good communicator! Just kidding... the rest of the article gives a couple of different reasons. Second, I'm not sure that the real tragedy has anything to do with "the ministry". Screw "the ministry". People are being hurt. Families are being hurt. I think restoration is the key word here... for everyone... but wait, isn't that ministry? I'm not there, and have only a few news articles to go by, but that would seem to be the biggest ministry... especially for a church that is having problems... what better picture of Jesus... a church that is hurt, angry and bitter... to be restored by the love of Jesus... HELLO!!! THERE'S YOUR MINISTRY Mr. president Ameiss! But I'm not there. Lastly, there are wars around the world... it's very sad and angering that there are wars within the Church as well. That's all I have to say about that.

Click the following link for more on the story... or you can simply Google it... Minister Arrested Mid-Sermon.

Random Thursday – Chuck Norris Facts

2006-02-09T08:19:00.000-05:00

And now, random facts about Chuck Norris...

Chuck Norris invented time zones in order to more efficiently schedule world wide butt kickings.

For fun, Chuck Norris likes to visit Veterinary Hospitals. When asked if he has a sick pet, Chuck Norris flexes and says, "These pythons are pretty sick."

Chuck Norris doesn't ask permission, he grants it.

Chuck Norris doesn't bathe like the rest of us. The only baths Chuck Norris takes are blood baths.

Chuck Norris doesn't fart, he makes smelly tornadoes.

Chuck Norris once knocked out Mike Tyson in a bare knuckle boxing match... with both hands tied behind his back.

Scientists have attempted to calculate the statistical possibilty of anyone beating Chuck Norris. The sheer impossibility of this task has caused many of the scientists to develop symptoms of severe foot-shaped bruising to the face.

The Sun was actually the explosion resulting from Chuck Norris roundhouse kicking God after he was told "thou shalt not kill".

Chuck Norris once used a butterfly knife camping. This may not sound special but he used it to build a tent, start a fire and kill a deer. Oh, and as a compass.

Chuck Norris can lick his elbow.
... NO, I did not make these up. They were found at 4Q.cc. However, not all of them are suitable for publication. If you travel to view more Chuck Norris facts, do so at your own risk.

Real Life One Hour Photo

2006-01-30T14:30:00.000-05:00

Do you guys remember the movie One Hour Photo with Robin Williams? His character becomes obsessed with a family who brings in their photos to be developed. Well, my wife comes home from Walmart's one hour photo lab and tells me that when she picked up the photos, the lady goes, "Oh, you've got the little boy that just got his hair cut and had a birthday party." Uh, she had to look through the photos pretty good to know that. Um, ok. Can you say... FREAKY. I'm hoping this doesn't turn into some movie gone real life on us.

A Message From Carter

2006-01-28T08:48:00.000-05:00

wiedskoidfkdikssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
kkidkfggggggggggggggggggggggglklklkkkkkkkkkkkkk
kkkkk,kla'sd9i4934
lkllllllmnaodpsssssssssssssopgjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjj
poij opjfgdkm

What, you can't read that? As I was typing an email out (with Carter on my lap) he decided that he wanted to get in the mix. So, since everyone's not up to date on baby talk (yes, this is what baby talk looks like when it's typed out) I'll translate for you. It says:

Yo, what up to my homies in da cribs. I hit the bit one two a few weeks ago. Dats right, I'm one year old now. I'm crawl'n for da most part. But yo, check this out... I just took like 12 steps at church on Thursday. A'right, I gotta let pops here get back to his email. I'll check y'all later. Holla back at me.

He gets the hip hop ghetto from Jami.

Live A Revolution P-votional Podcast – Revolutionary Life

2006-01-24T10:46:00.000-05:00

Live A Revolution P-votional – Revolutionary Life Luke 6:27-38

The fourth edition of Live A Revolution P-votional Podcast. This week we'll learn how to revolutionize our love life.

To listen, Click on the icon below.

Or, to subscribe with iTunes, click on the link below:

Next Tuesday... "Crippled by Kryptonite?"

Transcript of Podcast:

“Give me liberty or give me death.” Patrick Henry, a leader of the American Revolution, had a great influence in the fight for freedom from British tyranny. This dude didn’t fight for tea. He fought for and expressed ideas about a whole new way of life – a revolutionary life! You know, Jesus calls each one of us to a new way of life – a revolutionary life! Check it out:

“To you who are ready for the truth, I say this: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. If someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer for that person. If someone slaps you in the face, stand there and take it. If someone grabs your shirt, gift wrap your best coat and make a present of it. If someone takes unfair advantage of you, use the occasion to practice the servant life. No more tit-for-tat stuff. Live generously.” Luke 6:27-30 (The Message Remix)

The normal way of life says repay evil with evil. The ultimate revolutionary, Jesus, says repay evil with love. You see, the message of the Cross is love. Jesus didn’t just die for those who love Him. He also died for the very people who murdered Him. He died for a whole new way of life – a revolutionary life. Will you be a revolutionary?

Top Ten Current TV Shows

2006-01-23T14:42:00.000-05:00

Here's a list of my Top Ten Shows currently on TV:

10. Miami Ink

9. Late Night with Conan O'brien

8. UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship)

7. Cops

6. American Idol

5. Wanted

4. 24

3. Texas S.W.A.T.

2. E-Ring

1. The Shield

I know I'll probably take some heat for Lost not being listed... but if I have to be a martyr, I have to be a martyr... I can deal with that.

Carter Got His Hair Did

2006-01-18T00:00:00.000-05:00

Well, I guess it had to happen at some point. Although I could have waited a little bit longer, but Carter had his first hair cut yesterday. It was relatively painless, especially when he noticed the cameras.

Just before it comes off... he doesn't even know what's going to happen.

What the heck is going on?

Watch the ears. Watch the ears.

If I just look at mommy it will be ok.

Got my binky, got my binky.

Hey, it's not that bad. Halfway done.

Ya, I kind of like getting my hair cut.

Here's my stylist, Debbie. All the stars have one.

And that's all folks.

P.S. Tyler, it wasn't that bad... you were right. Oh ya, and just like you said... I do look more mature – like I'm one and a half now.

Live A Revolution P-votional Podcast – Oil Change

2006-01-17T08:47:00.000-05:00

Live A Revolution P-votional – Oil Change Psalm 51:2, Psalm 51:7, Proverbs 28:13, 1 John 1:9

The third edition of Live A Revolution P-votional Podcast. This week we'll learn why we need to get our spiritual oil changed.

To listen, Click on the icon below.

Or, to subscribe with iTunes, click on the link below:

Next Tuesday... "Revolutionary Life"

Transcript of Podcast:

Everyone who owns a car has had to get an oil change at some point. You’re suppose to know when you’re due for one because they put a little sticker on the top of your windshield. I don’t know about you, but it seems like I’m always caught off guard. I never notice my car needs an oil change until the light flickers on and off when I come to a stop. And even when that happens, I’m always putting it off until that warning light flickers more and more while I’m driving. This last time the oil changing guys actually told me I needed to watch my oil level better because when they drained out the old oil, barely any came out. I guess that’s a bad thing. No, I know it’s a bad thing. You know, there are times we need a spiritual oil change. And this is how it goes down. Check it out:

Psalm 51:2
Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.

Psalm 51:7
Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

Proverbs 28:13
He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

You see, we all have these warning lights going off and on in our minds. We know when we need to have our spiritual oil changed – when we need the old stuff drained and the new clean stuff put in. We know most of the time when we’ve sinned. But it’s easy to keep moving and put off that check up with God saying we’ll get to it tonight, we’ll get to it in the morning. It’s easy to say, I can’t pull over now. I’m too busy. But we all need to take the time to schedule a check up where we say, God, look at my life and tell me if there’s anything wrong. Remove the old junky stuff and replace it with your clean, new spirit. We all need a spiritual oil check from time to time if we don’t want to wreck our lives… the question isn’t if… it’s when… maybe you’re due for one now. If so, don’t put it off any longer… it could wreck your life. God wants to clean and fill you up with His Spirit.

Excuses. Excuses. Excuses.

2006-01-16T11:01:00.000-05:00

This is a popular time to call in sick for work. According to a recent survey done by careerbuilder.com, they came up with the 20 Best Excuses for Calling in Sick. I've pasted the 20 excuses below if you don't want to read the entire article... enjoy.

I was sprayed by a skunk.
I tripped over my dog and was knocked unconscious.
My bus broke down and was held up by robbers.
I was arrested as a result of mistaken identity.
I forgot to come back to work after lunch.
I couldn't find my shoes.
I hurt myself bowling.
I was spit on by a venomous snake.
I totaled my wife's jeep in a collision with a cow.
A hitman was looking for me.
My curlers burned my hair and I had to go to the hairdresser.
I eloped.
My brain went to sleep and I couldn't wake it up.
My cat unplugged my alarm clock.
I had to be there for my husband's grand jury trial.
I had to ship my grandmother's bones to India.
I forgot what day of the week it was.
Someone slipped drugs in my drink last night.
A tree fell on my car.
My monkey died.

And now... ummm, hmmm, I have to go... my dog pooped in my shoe... I mean, I'm feeling sick.

He Said What?

2006-01-15T15:13:00.000-05:00

At about the same time, the disciples came to Jesus asking, "Who gets the highest rank in God's kingdom?"For an answer Jesus called over a child, whom he stood in the middle of the room, and said, "I'm telling you, once and for all, that unless you return to square one and start over like children, you're not even going to get a look at the kingdom, let alone get in. Whoever becomes simple and elemental again, like this child, will rank high in God's kingdom. What's more, when you receive the childlike on my account, it's the same as receiving me.

Matthew 18:1-5

Podcast to Pick

2006-01-13T07:28:00.000-05:00

If you love the Longhorns and are excited about Texas winning the College Football National Championship, then you'll be excited about this week's Podcast to Pick. Located in Plano, Texas, Prestonwood Student Ministry has got some cool stuff going on like Freedom '06 and SPOTS (their small groups). Designed to reach students with the hope of Jesus through innovative media and relevant messages, Prestonwood Student Ministry is reaching students in the greater Plano - North Dallas area. If you don't have iTunes you can find their podcasts on Prestonwood's Podcast site. Thanks for your commitment to students. This is one ministry where I'll be sure to keep up to date with their podcasts.

The Shield Fiasco

2006-01-11T11:16:00.000-05:00

Last night was suppose to be the night. I've been looking forward to it for weeks now. FX has been promoing the heck out of it. And when it all went down at 10 p.m. last night, there was nothing but garbled conversation... that's right, the audio was all messed up. Couldn't understand a thing. Checked back at the 11 p.m. replay... you guessed it... same garbled mess. I've been in conversation with a couple of friends, and from what I can gather, this is a Comcast Cable screw up. Hopefully FX will replay this episode during the week. Until then... life goes on.

Live A Revolution P-votional Podcast – Trashed

2006-01-10T00:26:00.000-05:00

Live A Revolution P-votional – Trashed Proverbs 16:28, Proverbs 11:12, Proverbs 16:27

The second edition of Live A Revolution P-votional Podcast. This week we'll deal with gossip and slander, and learn how God feels about trashing other people.

To listen, Click on the icon below.

Or, to subscribe with iTunes, click on the link below:

Next Tuesday... "Oil Change"

Transcript of Podcast:

One thing I’m going to miss about the holidays is the white elephant gift Christmas parties. I actually never really liked going to a party where people brought their trash to give away as gifts. But over the last couple of years I’ve found that some people actually want and trade their stuff for a gift that some people consider trash. That’s what’s fun about going to a white elephant gift party… to see what trashy gift will be turned into someone’s treasure. You know, something similar happens to people, God’s treasure, when we trash them with our words… when we gossip about or slander someone. And God’s got something to say about trashing his treasure. Check it out:

Proverbs 16:28
Troublemakers start fights; gossips break up friendships.

Proverbs 11:12
Mean-spirited slander is heartless; quiet discretion accompanies good sense.

Proverbs 16:27
Mean people spread mean gossip; their words smart and burn.

You see, when we use gossip and slander we’re saying that the person we’re talking about is trash – that we don’t place any value on that person. But the cool thing is, is that God traded what he had for that trash. We were all white elephant gifts at one time, but God traded his Son for each one of us… his treasures. We’ve got better uses for our language than that… like giving thanks and using our words to love on people. So let’s not trash the treasure that God traded for… that Jesus gave his life for… and instead trade our gossip and slander in for the gifts that God has given to each one of us… people and the relationships that come with them.

The Birthday Party

2006-01-09T20:48:00.000-05:00

Well, this past Friday Carter turned 1 year old. So we asked him what he wanted to do for his big milestone... he said, let's throw a party. Ok, he obviously didn't say that. But we did have a birthday party for him... well, the 1 year old birthday party is probably more for us (the parents) than for him. In any case, here are a few photos. We really need to get better at taking other shots besides Carter... you know like of our friends.

Happy Birthday!!!!!!

Holy Cats! That's a haul.

It's so fun to wear my party hat.

Mommy's teaching me the finer things in life found in a birthday card... you know... boogers!

Oooooo, what's in here?

And why am I sitting in just a diaper in front of everyone? How embarrassing.

Mmmmm, cake.

Time for a break. Everyone needs milk with cake.

I wonder if I can taste the cake if I put it in my ear... nope.

And... I'm done.

Wes, and Jess. All the way from Virginia.

Was there any doubt these would end up on Corey's head just like this? I don't think so.

Abby... thanks for coming to my party.

I'd like to thank everyone for coming to my party. I like all of my gifts. But more importantly, I loved hanging out with everyone. Thank you for your greatest gift ever... your friendship and love. That beats them all.

P.S. Tyler, sorry for smacking you in the face.

-Carter.

Chase and Be Chased!

2006-01-08T14:18:00.000-05:00

Starting from scratch, he made the entire human race and made the earth
hospitable, with plenty of time and space for living so we could seek after God,
and not just grope around in the dark but actually find him. He doesn't play
hide-and-seek with us. He's not remote; he's near. We live and move in him,
can't get away from him! One of your poets said it well: "We're the
God-created."

Acts 17:26-28

Road Kill

2006-01-07T14:14:00.000-05:00

Well, if anyone needs to hire a hitman to take care of any squirrel problems... like if they aren't paying up on their nut loans... aparently my wife and I are the ones to call. Earlier this week she killed a squirrel with her car... today, I took care of one with mine. So get the word out... the Ruth's have declared war on all squirrels!

Podcast to Pick

2006-01-06T06:20:00.000-05:00

If you've had someone tell you to get a life, you know it's not a good thing. Similarily, if you've never been to church, you may think the same thing... not a good thing. Well, this week's Podcast to Pick from Life Church in the Temecula Valley of Southern California (between L.A. and San Diego) asks you to get a life and come to church... only their aim is to make both experiences a good thing. A vision that was given by God to Pastors John Ruhlman, Jimmy Smith, Jeff Paschall and Eric Beeman, Life Church is a 21st century church that seeks to be Bible based and culturally relevant... oh, and NOT boring. I recently listened to the 11.25.05 podcast called In the Zone, part one. I'll be listening to part two tomorrow. If you've got a chance, see what life's about at Life Church.

Thursday's Schedule

2006-01-05T17:40:00.000-05:00

8:15 a.m. Watch Imus on MSNBC
9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m. Play with Carter, and watch The First 48 Hours (It's a marathon day)
10:15 a.m. - 12:20ish Cater's nap time, and record next P-votional
12:20ish - 2:10ish Feed and play with Carter and watch more of The First 48 Hours
2:10ish -5:20ish Carter's nap time, and edit play with P-votional recording and watch more of The First 48 Hours

As you can see, I got a ton done... ok, it doesn't really look like it on paper... but I really did. In any case, iTunes sent me an email saying that they accepted my podcast submission. I think I may have to change the category, but we'll see. Below is the feed if you wish to subscribe to it:

feeds.blastpodcast.com/livearevolutioneveryday/index.xml

Tomorrow... Carter's 1-year-old birthday party!!!

Embracing Grace

2006-01-04T19:54:00.000-05:00

One of my Christmas gifts was a gift card to Barnes & Noble. Well, with that card I picked up Embracing Grace: A Gospel for All of Us by Scot McKnight. Here's a clipping from chapter one:

A local church always performs the gospel it proclaims. This may sound odd, so let me emphasize the word "always." A church always performs the gospel it proclaims because its performance is its proclamation. If you look at a church and what it does and how it operates you will see the gospel of that church. The important point to make here is that the deepest indicator of that church's gospel cannot be limited to the pastor's sermons, or the Sunday school teacher's teaching, or the doctrinal statement's affirmations. The sure indicator of the gospel in a local community is how those Christians live.

May I perform the gospel that I claim.

Live A Revolution P-votional Podcast Debut

2006-01-03T17:49:00.000-05:00

Live A Revolution P-votional – I'm Sinking Matthew 14:28-30

Introducing the first ever Live A Revolution P-votional Podcast. It took a little work, but I figured it out! I'll be working on some things that could be better that I and my editor (my wife) noticed for the next one. You can expect a new Live A Revolution P-votional Podcast each Tuesday... Enjoy!

To listen, Click on the icon below.

Or, to subscribe with iTunes, click on the link below:

Next Tuesday... "Trashed"

Under the Hood Update

2006-01-02T22:26:00.000-05:00

Well, I was able to pick up my car on Sunday. I don't know what I was more afraid of... the bill, or having to face the people who saw the inside of my messy car. There's nothing like having to look a perfect stranger in the face to help push you to clean your car out. In any case, two good things... it was just a broken alternator belt – cost – $121.00. It could have been worse... and two, I didn't have to face anyone who saw the inside of my car. I guess that means I can put off cleaning it until the next time something goes wrong.

Belts. Tow Trucks. And Auto Service Repair Shops

2005-12-31T00:17:00.000-05:00

So, I leave work this afternoon all pumped about getting a cd filled with video that Corey made for me when all of a sudden I hear... rat a tat tat tat tat tat tat tat tat tat tat tat tat tat tat tat (if you say it real fast, it actually sounds like what was going on under the hood of my car). So I pull over immediately. I'm sure the guy behind me let me know I'm number one. But I didn't care. I pop the hood... no mess. I guess that's good. So I go back and turn the ignition... same sound. And as I looked I saw that one of my belts had started to come undone and was spinning and hitting things in the engine. The guy at the service station I called said I should tow my car. So I took his advice. It's now waiting to be looked at either tomorrow or Monday. The funniest part of this fiasco (wait, it's not funny)... the funny part of this fiasco is the question Jami asked me... "Couldn't you just buy a belt and put it on yourself?" Are you kidding me? If it was a flat tire, I'd be good to go. But engine work!? I'm the most car illiterate in the continental United States... wait, North America... wait... the entire world... no, wait... the entire Milky Way. Sure I could put on the belt, but I'd lose my salvation along the way and probably a couple of fingers too.

Podcast to Pick

2005-12-30T10:46:00.000-05:00

I'm hooked. I've had an Ipod for two days, and I'm already hooked to podcasts. Like humans need water, I need podcasts. Ok, that may be a little overly dramatic. But the podcast I want to pass on to you this week does have a lot to do with water... living water. It's from Aqueous Church in Goleta, California near Santa Barbara. Aqueous - meaning partaking of the nature of water, or abounding with it. Lead pastors Billy and Kristin Calderwood are calling people to live aqueous lives where Jesus flows out of every area of each person. I recently listened to the 12.03.05 podcast by Billy called, Worship and Praise: when Jesus arrives in the temple. Their passion is communicated clearly through their site and it's clear that they are not afraid to risk and fail at innovation to connect with Jesus so that they never give in to the staleness of spirit and soul. This is my Podcast to Pick this week, if for no other reason than pastor Billy actually said "Jesus was pissed" in the above message. Thanks for your courage, passion and telling it like it is.

Thursday's Throw-Up

2005-12-29T21:59:00.000-05:00

I know. I know. It's 9:59 p.m. I'm just now getting to my Thursday post. I actually spent half the day in front of the computer and half the day playing with Carter. But my time with the computer was spent trying to understand the ins and outs of my Ipod. In any case, I want to get out a variety of things this Thursday, you know, kind of like puke.

Starbucks Gift Cards. One of the greatest gifts on the planet. I actually got two of them this year... well three, if I can use the remainder of my Barnes & Noble card for coffee. I think I'll be stopping at Starbucks before work. Then after work. And maybe brew a little Starbucks during work and at home.

My brother-in-law has gotten my nearly hooked on the Las Vegas version of CSI over the Christmas holiday. Man, where have I been. Nothing like a couple of murders and some dry humor to make a guy's night. When will they come out with a downloadable version for ITunes?

And finally (but definitely not vomit!)... my good friend Corey Mann has decided to start a side business called I Make Videos. If you'd like a video made, I highly suggest you visit his site. He just finished our son's video that captured the first year of his life. I hate to admit this for everyone to see, but it made me cry. But seriously, Corey has the ability to use his creativity to develop videos that touch lives, communicate ideas in relevant and fresh ways, and bring laughter to a room of people. I strongly suggest you contact him and let him run with your project... you won't be disappointed.

That's all. I feel better now... you know, just like you do after you throw up.

Carter's Christmas

2005-12-28T06:34:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Carter's Christmas. I wish I had more photos but I was too busy taking video shots of him opening his gifts. He wants to thank everyone for their present to him.

Look out! Here I come.

Hey, can I get a push? Put down the camera.

Yeah, it's me... Carter.

Check this out. It makes noise when I walk with it.

Check out my Christmas PJs. Aparently I will get them every year on Christmas Eve. I think that's a fun tradition... well it will be until I'm like 12.

Ooooo, a magic wand. What!? It's a toothbrush?

One more picture from great grandma and grandpa Ruth's house... I'm tired. Can you tell?

New Addition

2005-12-27T13:47:00.000-05:00

Please welcome the newest addition to the Ruth technology family... the 30 gig Video Ipod. I had to buy it... especially since Ipod's opening sentence on their site is "Witness the evolution of the revolution." It's kind of like having a baby – I spent 15 minutes in Target talking to some stranger about $250 speakers for our Ipods... neither of us bought those speakers, they're $250. In any case, I spent roughly eight hours the last two days figuring out and playing with the Ipod... very cool buy. Maybe I'll start my own podcast and listen to it all day long...

Our Christmas Tree... I Mean Stick

2005-12-27T13:16:00.000-05:00

When we cut down and purchased our tree, it became our Christmas tree. About two weeks out from Christmas, it became our Christmas stick. As you can see, we were about two more weeks from having a Charlie Brown Christmas tree. We literally had to sweep up needles every other day – it could have been every day. So on Christmas, Santa put the presents under our Christmas stick – and then momma and papa Scrooge threw the tree away as soon as the presents were open... Merry Christmas!

Bed Wetting

2005-12-19T14:46:00.000-05:00

So, last Thursday I was getting Carter ready to take him to his grandparent's house. Like usual, if he's facing away from me I toss him up, spin him around and catch him so that he's now facing me. The only difference this time, I did it as I was getting up from the couch... which meant that I didn't have my legs under me... which meant that I threw him and caught him with just my arms and back... which led to a severe pain shoot through my lower back... which led to me saying "Jami, Jami, Jami. Take him, take him, take him." real fast over and over again. I've only hurt my back one other time, and that was in high school. I back pain. I have been stiff and sore since Thursday. It's gotten better since then. One reason I believe is because I've been sleeping with a heating pad under my lower back. The only problem... for the past few days when I wake up, it feels like I've pee'd the bed because of the warm sensation where the bed would be wet if I were to have actually wet it... which I didn't. So I've now moved the heating pad from my lower back to my feet... no reason... it just feels good.

He Said What!?

2005-12-11T07:48:00.000-05:00

Why does a mustard seed attract comparison to the kingdom of God? Because for Jesus the kingdom is about the ordinariness of loving God and loving others. The kingdom is as common as sparrows, as earthly as backyard bushes, as routine as breakfast coffee, and as normal as aging. He hallows the ordinary act of love, making it extraordinary. Instead of finding it in the majestic, Jesus sees God's kingdom in the mundane. The kingdom of God is the transforming presence of God in ordinary humans who live out the Jesus Creed.

Scot McKnight
The Jesus Creed: Loving God, Loving Others
Pages 135-136

Holiday Tree Spotted in South Bend, Indiana

2005-12-09T00:13:00.000-05:00

Well, the goofiness continues... the city of South Bend, Indiana has decided to call the tree they put up downtown every year a "Holiday Tree" as opposed to a Christmas Tree. The reason? They say that South Bend is a culturally diverse city, so they want to include everyone in the holiday season... well, except Christians. I find it odd that those who claim to be inclusive of everyone, continuously decide to remove anything remotely Christian. I have no problems saying "happy holidays". And I don't think that a "Christian" lawsuit is the solution. I'm just tired of those who make these types of decisions take the easy way out... you know, remove the word "Christmas" and make everything generic. Wouldn't a better, more colorful and diverse solution be to design a scene that includes each cultural demographic that celebrate something at this time of the year? That would be cool, beautiful and would help each of us celebrate together. But this would mean that thought, work and creativity would have to be put into this solution. And that's just too much to expect from those who are making these decisions. I think that Virgin Mobile says it best... happy chrismahanukwanzakah! Oh wait, we can't say that either. It leaves out Festivus for the rest of us.

(The debate over "Christmas" versus "Holiday" hits close to home)

Age of Information... too much from kids and their blogs

2005-12-08T22:43:00.000-05:00

MSNBC.com has a great article on Kids, blogs and too much information: children reveal more online than parents know. Check it out... especially if you have children.

Druggies

2005-12-07T00:04:00.000-05:00

No. This shot wasn't taken at the Walmart pharmacy. It's our medicine. One prescription for Jami, one for me and two for Carter. Plus some Motrin and Excedrin. Yes, we are currently druggies and will be so for nine more days. Of course this shot doesn't include the Halls cough drops, Halls vitamin C drops, Vicks vaporizing machine and Jami's Vicks sinex spray, which I cannot take because you have to spray it up your nose!

My 9-Month Old Photo Shoot

2005-12-06T23:02:00.000-05:00