Sir-Blog-A-Lot

Ch-ch-ch-changes!

2006-08-07T15:33:00.000-04:00

Well its been a while, huh? Am I back on the blogging bandwagon? I dont know. We will see. CHanges! Lots of changes have happened since Ive last posted. Im lead pastor now at the church. Thats a big change. It has been awesome so far. I know its God, because he has taken something that I had no real desire to do a year or so ago and ignited this huge vision for our church. I would tell you that Im relaly nervous and anxious about the whole thing, but Im not. It is daunting that I have the responsibility to shepherd great people, but I have complete confidence in God to see it through. No hesitation.

Already, I see things moving forward and people really locking into the vision. Change is good.

Seacoast. Im really excited to be a part of what Seacoast is doing. I still cant believe God has give us this huge resource to help guide us. The folks there have spoken in to me in more ways than I can explain. I get a flutter in my stomach just thinking about it because I know that God is going to use us to do incredible things here, and I know that SC is just a part of that.

The real problem

2006-02-08T10:18:00.000-05:00

Here the real problem. That little piece is suppsed to be part of the joint...not taking a swim over there where it is.

Giving you the finger update

2006-02-07T13:57:00.000-05:00

So I went to the orthopedic doctor this morning. Apparently the break in my finger is much worse than I thought. Actually, the doctor referred me to another doctor because he "doesnt do detailed work like that". Great. So I will have to go under again and have surgery on the little guy. Turns out if I just let it go and heal on its own, my finger would not be very good for anything other than pointing around corners. I still think the whole thing is funny, just not AS funny since now I have to be cut open and have screws installed into my finger. Anyway, you cant say that ive never given you the finger...update.

Ah, the Superbowl...quickly becoming a pain....

2006-02-06T15:51:00.000-05:00

Before 2 years ago, I had never broken a single bone in my body.
Superbowl Sunday, 2 years ago, behind the church...broken jaw.
Superbowl Sunday yesterday behind the church...broken finger.
On the bright side, I can eat. On the dark side...another broken bone!? What the heck is that all about. Literally maybe 10 feet away from where I broke my jaw!?
What is funny is that after I broke it, I still played...and threw 2 touchdowns...( you rock KK ).
Anyway, I think next year I will be going to the local Sports Bar to watch. What could go wrong with that?

So Freakin Happy

2006-01-31T15:56:00.000-05:00

I am happy. Happy because I finally can access the internet here at the church. A new day has dawned, but wait...Id better let the folks at Panera know, otherwise they might think I died.
Anywhoo, Im happy.

On another note, I am also happy at how well the service went on Sunday. It was a bit nerve wracking, just not knowing what the folks reactions would be to watch a sermon on a screen. But I thought it went great, and everyone I have talked to really enjoyed it. Hopefully, thats just the beginning of what God wants to do here.

If you havent already, check out the CFC blog here.
Also check out Seacoast church here.

G'day

update

2006-01-24T09:53:00.000-05:00

updated, there.

2006-01-02T15:10:00.000-05:00

thats a boa...the constrictor kind...brave kid I have

2006-01-02T15:09:00.000-05:00

random...but coolness

2006-01-02T15:07:00.000-05:00

thought id send a couple of pics from the trip

Aaralyn

2005-12-25T10:41:00.000-05:00

2005-10-06T08:40:00.000-04:00

Blog Day 2
Confusion reigns...
Well, just got back from day 1 of the conference here in the ATL. It has been a rollercoaster day to say the least. God works in mysterious ways? Well sometimes I think He works in cruel and unusual ways. More on that later. It is so refreshing to hear the things that I am hearing, but disconcerting to face the reality that these things are so incredibly hard to actually implement where I am, where you are. Can it be done here? All of this feels like it fits me and what I would love to strive for, but unattainable for us as a congregation. Things just need to be broken down, and I believe God wants us to do that, but at what cost? Because there would be a cost. As I have found in the last few weeks, honesty is the best policy, but it does cause division and hurt sometimes. What am I getting at you may ask? Well, this whole day has been about effecting change in the way we do ministry. It is really not about the building you are in, or the way it is decorated, or the performance that we put on to try and “advertise” a product that we hope that others will buy into. It is not about programs or small groups or strategies. It is not about targeting a particular demographic, or even normal evangelism...those thing would be quite easy to change....Its about honesty, really. It’s about us as “church leaders” having such a real relationship with God that others are drawn to it. It’s about doing ministry the way Jesus did ministry. Its about being the church and not doing church. And the sad reality is that I just don’t think that
a.) we, I, (leaders) have our heads wrapped around it yet, and
b.) people will really get excited about it and engage in it if we did.
Its almost as if we have this huge task of changing culture itself (by being IN IT) in order to change the church to what it was meant to be. Right now, we have the mentality that we need to change the church to match todays culture and that just doesn’t work. Or at least it hasn’t worked. Our culture has to change. Our church needs to be the training ground for the agents of that change. But that means we as individuals have to change. The members of our congregation have to change. Being “relevant” just doesn’t seem to cut it anymore. We need to change what is regarded as “relevant” in our culture to match God’s standards, and bring people THERE. OK, I am really babbling I suppose and this may not make sense to you, which further illustrates my point that this stuff is really hard to do.

A few notable quotes from the day...
Len Sweet- the role of the church is to point people to the experience of God (much in the way that Starbucks is not just coffee, it is an experience, because nobody in their right mind pays 3.80 for a cup of coffee...oops.)
Margaret Feinberg- we need to let Jesus be Himself in our churches(ponder that one some...)
Donald Miller- How great would this life be if we stopped judging people for what they are doing, and at the same time strive for holiness ourselves. (responding to a question about Christians drinking or smoking, and the stigma in Christian culture regarding those areas.)

Back to the first thing I said about God’s cruel and unusual ways. I think what I meant by that was that all of this is so promising IF we can get it right. IF we...I said WE...can make it happen. I fear that the hardest part if this process is changing ME. More later....

2005-10-06T08:39:00.000-04:00

Blog Day 1

Well I made it. Pretty easy trip, really. Nothing eventful other than a huge box in the middle of the highway. Im talking like a empty dishwasher sized box. The car next to me plowed into it at about 80mph. We made it through fine, but the show in the rear view mirror was pretty scary. Cars going everywhere...as far as I know no crackups, but I didn’t stick around long to see. This area is pretty cool...downtown Decatur, GA. Who woulda known. I will post some pics as soon as I can. The campus here is very relaxing. Not too many people around. My room was a bit disappointing, but in reality it is probably just what I needed. The bare essentials..very college dorm”esque”. No tub, just a shower. No TV. But I can use the library. Oh, and there was a lecture going on down the hall with some tasty snacks and drinks out for them..ok, yeah I had a cookie, big deal.
I miss the family already. I guess I am spoiled to be able to be around so much. Alrighty then, Im off to find some sushi and a Starbucks...and hopefully somewhere with free wi-fi. Ill keep this little journal throughout my trip. I would say it is for you, but really it is for me to reflect and have a record of stuff. I have the worlds worst memory so maybe this will come in handy. I may even do some posts while I am at the conference. We shall see. Adios.

Day 1 update...ok this place is awesome. A walk downtown tonight got me sushi (which took WAY too long, but resulted in FREE sushi, which is awesome-er), starbucks, a cool conversation, and a nice cool Georgia sunset.

Conference Update

2005-10-05T23:27:00.000-04:00

Well I am having just a great time here in the big city of ATlanta. Decatur, actually...but this place rocks. As soon as I can I will post updates on my trip and some pictures. I would do it now, but the computer I am having to use here doesnt have a USB port for me to transfer all that I have written already. I miss you all...well, the 3 people that read this anyway...back in a flash.

Another older video

2005-09-30T19:27:00.000-04:00

click pic to play

Otterly Fun Video

2005-09-30T19:21:00.000-04:00

Click to play

2005-09-22T21:46:00.000-04:00

new pic

Great story

2005-08-25T07:24:00.000-04:00

Im not homeless, and I dont know that I would have done the same.
Ready the story here.

Incredible. May God richly bless this woman.

Pat Robertson

2005-08-24T15:42:00.000-04:00

Is this guy getting old and senile and cranky or what? This time he has really stepped in a pile or poo and hes not gonna be able to shake it off. Whats worse than a well-known Christian personality saying that we should assasinate someone? Lying the next day. Thats what. Today he says that he was "misinterpreted". That he could have been implying kidnapping. Excuse me? Heres a quote from yesterday.."If he thinks we're trying to assassinate him, I think that we really ought to go ahead and do it."

Im done with trying to defend these guys. Theres no defense for this. I mean, abortion is wrong because it is murder, but assasinating a nations president isn't? Yes, throw the baby out with the bathwater folks. Had he come clean and "repented" for his comment I would feel differently, but he is out and out lying now. Unrepentance. Dangerous ground to be treading Mr. Robertson.

napolean? NAPOLEAN????

2005-08-21T21:40:00.000-04:00

Okay, now I know Im not the BEST looking guy in the world but this chick today made me feel like I should maybe reconsider my "style choices". Heres the story: So I go to this coffee shop today with Kev and Laura (thanks for letting me tag-along), and I am wearing my "Liger" shirt under a long sleeve shirt...jeans, cool Skechers...I dont think its too bad. My hair was a little messy but whatever. So the girl asks to see my shirt. Im thinking, "OK, shes seen the movie, she will think its cool". She reads. She doesnt get it. I say so have you seen the movie? Cuz you wont get it unless youve seen the movie. She says "no." Then she busts out with this wonderful nugget of self esteem eating fury...."You look like that guy.." I say what guy. She says "Napolean Dynamite".
If she had already made my coffee I would have thrown it in her face and run out of the place. She sees my dismay, and attempts to correct by saying..."NO, I mean you look "quirky" or "artsy"..." Gee thanks. Can I have my Macchiato now, please.

The Gaza Pullout

2005-08-17T10:05:00.000-04:00

I dont know if any of you are following this story, but it is really getting to me. In the gym this morning, I was watching FOXNews as they were live as one of the families were being evicted and it was heart-wrenching. Imagine, police breaking down your door and making you and your family leave the home you have been in for 25 years. ONly to be filled by a group of people that for the most part hate you and wish you were dead. It's insane. That cannot be a good solution to the Isreali-Palestinian problems. Now I know that not ALL Palestinians condone the violence against the Israelis, but if they really were sympathetic, they would move to JOrdan where their people came from and belong in the first place. Removing these people form their homes before the PLO has disarmed and disavowed violence, and before other groups like Hamas have been eradicated is not the way to peace. This will only fuel the fire in the opposite direction and also cause a possible civil war or coup against Sharon's government.

I think the worlds silence on this issue is despicable.

2005-07-26T23:03:00.000-04:00

suzies school from space

2005-07-23T01:01:00.000-04:00

this ones for you, kristy, and suzie

2005-07-23T00:19:00.000-04:00

my girls and me...

Golly Gee, a new post!

2005-07-22T23:58:00.000-04:00

OK, cut me some slack. I have been chillin with my girls and havent been spending too much time blogging...sue me.

Todays blog will be a bit different. I am shock, horrified, and dare I say...stunned at something I heard on the radio. This might seem out of character for me, but I was really upset at a commercial I heard.
You know the Budweiser "Real Men of Genius" commercials. Yeah, most of the time they are pretty funny. To me, this one wasnt.
In case you havent heard it, they now have one praising the "Russian Mail Order Bride Owner" OK, on the surface it may seem funny, but to praise the fact that women can be bought and sold is just an outrage to me. It is a modern form of slave trading and it should not be something used to sell beer in a lighthearted manner.

Listen for the commercial and judge for yourself. Then if you feel the way I do, let them know what you think HERE

Special Delivery?

2005-06-10T08:21:00.000-04:00

So, Carrie and I were at our lamaze class last night. The teacher of the class is great but she really hits on us to not go to the hospital too early. Well, Samantha came quick, and they say that the 2nd comes even faster. So we expressed our concern over "not making it" to the hospital. The teacher proceeds to tell me to go to their little library there and get a book on how to deliver a baby!!! Not real comforting there! I mean, yeah its no big deal...just catch the baby, right? Yeah, right. I dont know nothin bout birthin no babies! This is now my nightmare. I know its not gonna happen, but it is still freaky to think about having to do that....

Peace out

I found myself!

2005-06-08T17:46:00.000-04:00

OK, I never really lost myself, but you might think that if you try to read my blog. So Im back on the horse again.

I dont have a whole lot to talk about today. It was a good day.
Played like 5 games of basketball this morning. I hope those guys understand that I just do that to get to hang with them. I stink at basketball. I think I might be able to get better, but Im just not motivated to do so. I guess I am getting old. Back in the day, if someone was better than me at something I would work and work on it until I was at least up to their level. BUt now Im just content playing they way I (yuck) play.
HAd a good time this morning, though.

Baby update: shes not out yet.
Really looking forward to the baby getting here though. Cant wait to share her with everyone. Still need a name though. Sidney Grace is on the table, but were still not sure. Suggestions welcomed.

Well gotta go get some stuff done. I hope you are all happy now.

Link to article

2005-04-25T09:17:00.000-04:00

http://www.news-record.com/news/local/gso/famine_042505.htm

Woo-Hoo!

2005-04-22T07:54:00.001-04:00

Got some great news yesterday that I am really excited about. Sorry, cant tell you though.

Its been a few days since a real post, so I thought I would give it a try. Theres really not much going on these days. I should have posted about the little "incident" at church the other night. What a strange thing. Im glad that I have the support of the pastor and everybody else, though. That makes it easier. If you need to know what Im talking about, then ask me...I dont have enough space to go into it here. Lets just say that I now have a mortal enemy I guess. I think that makes me a superhero now, though, right? Evey superhero has to have an enemy, and up until now I haven't had one. But now that I do...I guess I can be a superhero. I gotta think of a cool name, though. Help me out here.

Just thought you'd like to know

2005-04-21T15:12:00.000-04:00

VATICAN CITY (AP) — Got a prayer or a problem for the new pope? Now you can e-mail him. Showing that Pope Benedict XVI intends to follow in the footsteps of John Paul II's multimedia ministry, the Vatican on Thursday modified its Web site so that users who click on an icon on the home page automatically activate an e-mail composer with his address.

In English, the address is benedictxvi@vatican.va. In Italian: benedettoxvi@vatican.va.

2005-04-12T23:15:00.000-04:00

Heres what the guys from ND look like fo rizzle...

2005-04-12T23:14:00.000-04:00

This is pretty cool...freakazoid, but cool

How bout an update?

2005-04-12T22:35:00.000-04:00

Well, I havent exactly met my blogging goals, but I have been better at updating. NOthing much to report right now. Just looking forward to going to Coldstone Wednesday.
Looks like I may work Market a couple of days which would be great, simply because you pretty much just sit around most of the day and get paid plus free lunch. It is a pain though, because it is time that could be much better spent. And it is an interesting crowd that goes to these things. Last year there was one lady whos outfit made Zsa Zsa Gabor look like a nun. Even if all the jewelry she had on WAS fake (which it probably wasnt) she had about a million dollars on her. Not to mention the $ dropped on plastic surgery and pink dye for her entire wardrobe. But thats what makes it interesting. Otherwise, its just selling furniture, which I have absolutley NO knowledge of. But if it works out it will be nice money.

Small group was cool tonight. We have a blog now...Tuesdaysat7 nice work Kevin.

Lets see, what else? Nope, thats about it for now. Oh, I need a new guitar...what do you think of this? Gibson SST
Or this? Taylor

Gotta have a new one soon. The old was is getting...well, old.

New Music Thursday

2005-04-07T16:12:00.000-04:00

So I thought I would just share some of my new favorite bands today. Get you all up to speed on what is goin on the iPod these days.

First off, Mutemath
This is a great band featuring the lead singer from the defunct Earthsuit from the 90s.

Next Anberlin. These guys rock it. Theyre newest album is awesome pick it up.

Lets see...probably my favorite band right now is Mae. Ive never been into the emo thing, and they exactly emo, but yeah. They are great.

Those are just a couple. They all have my stamp of approval. Enjoy.

As Promised

2005-04-06T06:06:00.000-04:00

See, already off to a good start. Its 6:08 am. I just got up and here I am blogging. This time change stinks. I was just getting used to being awake at 6, and now my body thinks its an hour earlier. So whats on my mind at this hour. Not a whole lot other than trying to focus on making it to the gym. I feel so much better about myself when I work out. I guess it is a little bit of an addiction. I saw a picture of me from about 8-9 years ago when we were at the beach and it freaked me out. I looked like that pirate on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. All bony and stuff. I never realized how skinny I was. Good motivation though....gotta get to the gym. Later.

Wow, you guys

2005-04-05T22:22:00.000-04:00

This is like the most popular blog with absolutely nothing on it! I havent even checked my own blog in days and theres 6 comments on NOTHING! OK, you asked for it, so I hereby make it priority 2 or 3 for me to updat e my blog eveyday for 2 weeks. Im sure you will hold me to it.

So I was trying to think of something interesting to write about and couldnt really think of anything other than we had a really cool time at small group tonight. I really enjoyed it. Although I think Corey (sp?) wasnt really diggin my "anti-animal" banter. Im sorry, I just want to know how the heck animals ever survived without human intervention. To me, its the single greatest argument against evolution. It should be in the textbooks. Theres no way animals could have been here for eons before humans because there was no one to provide them with shelter, food, love and support, right. Because animals need us....bah-freakin hum bug! Animals Shmanimals....they BELONG outside fending for themselves. Thats what they do!

Anywhoo, actually there is alot going on, but Ill have to save some for tomorrow. For now I want you all to research my hero, Joseph Kittinger. I will provide you with a link....HERE

This guy is the man. Jumped from a ballon at an altitude of 19.26 MILES above the earth. Thats almost outerspace, friends. Anyway, look him up and be amazed. I want to meet this guy someday. OK, see you tomorrow everyone.

OK, an update?

2005-03-07T10:30:00.000-05:00

SOMEONE thinks that my blog needs updating....ok. So here's an update.
There...happy now?

Howsaboutit?

2005-02-27T16:13:00.000-05:00

Well, a great day today at church. Of course things tried to get out of whack. My darn jaw was killin me, and singing with stiches aint easy, and then theres breaking a string at 10:20 which is always good, but God had greater things in store this morning. Seemed really full today too, which was awesome. To top it off, Kevin rocked the kasbah too. The message was awesome. Sorry Kevin about not getting the scriptures in there...I had some ready to go and then left them on my desk. Just another one of those 'things' that happened. Oh well. Thats why Im glad Im not in control and God is. It's been interesting singing lately while in pain. This time last year I was completely wired shut and not able to do anything. It was during that time that God really taught me alot about worship, and now this little bit of pain I am in isnt going to stop me. Worship is a sacrifice. Sometimes it may be sacrificing how you feel and laying that aside and pressing in to worship God anyway. I think that God will always honor worship that is brought to Him sacrificially. It should cost us something when we come before God. You can have everything in place and perfect, but you still need to be giving something of yourself for it to be worship and not just music. Like when Issac says, ok we have the fire, but wheres the sacrifice? We can have the fire and the wood and water but it should cost us something when we come to worship. Rambling over.
Oh, BTW Kristy thank you thank you thank you for the coffee this morning. That hit the spot.
Anyway back to watching the race. I know, I know...but I enjoy it. SOund off, iPod on, recline....perfect Sunday afternoon...just wish Carrie and Samantha were back....

Wednesday night

2005-02-23T22:23:00.000-05:00

Well kindof a wierd night at church last night. I was singin the first song and it felt like I was rippin stiches out. Makes it hard to concentrate on worship with that goin on. So sorry for not much music, but I tried. And the message didnt really come out the way I wanted, but I guess thats the way it goes when I dont prep much. Sorry, guys I thought I didnt think that it would take me this long to recover or I woulda had someone cover for me. Sara did awesome tonight. Im really glad she is getting involved, but wish she wasnt leaving next year. I really have alot to say, but the drugs are kickin in now and I am whooped, so Im going to bed. Hope everyone has a great day tomorrow. PLease be praying for Del, too and that he wont lose his finger and he gets full use of his hand.

Friends

2005-02-22T19:26:00.000-05:00

Thank you everyone for your concern for me during the past couple of days. It is awesome to have such great friends.
Kevin, the food was awesome! You Rock! Thank you so much, it means a lot to me.
Kristy, thank you so much for the shake and the card. You rock too.
And my friend, Percoset, you rock too!

Ouch

2005-02-22T17:30:00.000-05:00

First off, I thought we had a great service on Sunday. It's awesome when you know you didnt just go through the motions, but you got to spend some time in God's presence.

Well, the dentist was interesting yesterday. Interestingly, I dont remember a whole lot about it. I just hope I didnt say anything stupid while I was on the gas. It was a LONG day, and I dont want to go through stuff like that again. I was in the chair from 8am to 3 pm.

Funny/Not Funny:
Last night after the dentist, I was in terrible pain and of course, the pharmacy people didnt seem to care too much, taking more than an hour to get me my meds. When I finally got them I took the prescribed dose and sat down to watch TV. After about 30 minutes it hit. HArd. Within a minute I was soaked in sweat...literally dripping wet like I had stepped out of the shower and I felt really nauseated. So off to the bathroom floor I went. On my hands and knees, mind you. I never would have made it upright! Next thing I know, it's like 2 hours later, and Im waking up on the bathroom floor with my head on a towel leaned up against the bathtub.

But today I am doing much better. Still really sore, but really happy with the way the teeth look. Hopefully this will be the end of it.

On another topic, I really miss Carrie and Samantha. You would think that I would look forward to a little vacation, but its not a good thing. But I guess it is a good thing that I miss them. 10 days is just too long. And its funny, but I really miss the baby too! Its weird but I feel like I am missing out.

OK, back to Percoset-land for me. Later!

2005-02-18T06:28:00.000-05:00

here the little one

Hey! New Post, WOW!

2005-01-24T14:55:00.000-05:00

Well, the title is exciting. Not a whole lot to report. Church was great yesterday. Football wasnt so great. Sorry bout the Steelers, Kristy. Maybe next year. HAnging out at the Rodriguez home was cool as usual. Stuffed myself with food and watched football on the comfy couch with friends. Life was good. I was glad Kevin and Laura came over. I enjoy getting to know Kevin. I need to hang out with him more, we are just both pretty busy. Exciting news for Shockwave. Laura is going to start coming and helping out on Wednesday nights. Im really excited about that and also getting some new singers going for the worship team. Speaking of worship, I have felt really "connected" the last few times I have led. Even with a lot going on within the teams internally, God still shows up. If you havent read them, let me recommend two books: The KNowledge of the Holy by AW Tozer, and Facedown by Matt Redman. Both really eye opening. Well, be back later when I have more to report.

Last few days

2005-01-20T09:25:00.000-05:00

I am bummed about missing my workouts. I kinda hurt my arm when I was being a cowboy and it hurts when I lift heavy stuff, so Im taking a break. Im also bummed about my tooth getting broken. It was caused by the damage from the braces I wore when I broke my jaw. I knew it would have to be taken care of sooner or later. However they fix it I just want to be unconscious...is that too much to ask? I want to sleep and wake up with new teeth or whatever.

Last night was great. Happy Birthday Andrew. I wish everyone had brought their BOOKS though. Oh well, it was nice to kinda hang out after a long weekend anyway. Kalyn rocks on the drums. We HAVE to get that girl a set of drums. I am really looking forward to Sunday now to hear her play and see all the young'ns up there singing and worshipping.

Its all about the weekend

2005-01-17T21:51:00.000-05:00

Well we made it home. Iam very tired, but I wanted to get some thoughts in before the weekend slipped away. We had a great time this past weekend in Pigeon Forge...which, come to think of it, I dont think I saw one single pigeon anywhere.hmmm.
If theres one thing that sticks out to me the most about the weekend it would be that I continue to realize how much I love those teenagers. You guys are the absolute greatest bunch of kids there is. More than the conference stuff, thats what sticks out to me the most as I sit here. Everyone that I told I just returned from 3-1/2 days with 8 teens seems to think that I would be relieved that it is over. I am tired, but I didnt want it to end.You are ALL moody and annoying at times, but I didnt want it to end. Everyone of you means so much to me and Carrie too. I hope that you all got what you came for at the conference. I wont even begin to try and decipher what I think each of you recieved out of the weekend, because I dont know. I hope you do. I hope that it sunk in deep and you were changed.
Other things to remember from the weekend. Bullriding(ouch), reveal the wafer, "can you bring me my chapstick?", lugnuts, department of corrections guy, anything having to do with Brittany being around, Kalyn making me laugh, "Church Time", Casting Crowns, Communion, mountains, feminine hygeine(dont ask if you werent there), praying together, getting to hang with "the boys", ...Ill continue this later on. Theres much more. Feel free to add your own. Hasta Manana.

Monday MOnday Monday

2005-01-10T13:45:00.000-05:00

Well, this past weekend was pretty interesting.
Lets start with Saturday.
Had a great time leading worship at HPC. Everyone there is so nice and they are so excited about taking the music to another level, and their worship also...as if they were somehow related...anyway, dont get me going there...I guess to us for the most part it is related. And I would agree to some extent. Bad music is very distracting when you are trying to focus on God. So they are realted I guess.
Sunday we had a great time with worship. Steve called this morning and he is feeling much better today. Steve Ski did a great job considering that he had like 10 minutes of notice that he would have to speak!
Golf yesterday with JP, Vic and Ray was awesome. It was great to hang out w/ JP away from church...and we won lunch from Ray and Vic!
The concert last night was great. Overflow is great, but you can tell they are a young band. Kinda unprofessional moments in there. Like taking 10 minutes of silence and darkness to tune and plug in. "Hello, Overflow, this is your record company...GET IT TOGETHER!" But they seemed like cool guys and played a good show, so all is forgiven.
I guess thats about it for now. Susie, how'd you do through the storms out there? Seems pretty bad. Oh, and thanks for the quote"Pain is the body's way of eliminating weakness" thats great. I think of it often and in many ways...especially every morning. Miss you already.
OK, later.

New year, New blog

2005-01-08T06:36:00.000-05:00

Well, not a new blog, but a resolution to blog more. It is hip to blog now, right? Good.
So here goes.
Wellit is now 6:15am. On Saturday morning. I got up to go work out, but VIc called and informed me that the Y doesnt open till 7 on Saturday so Im killing some time. Im glad he called cause I really didnt want to get up this morning. But now that Im up I guess it doesnt matter.
Yesterday was an interesting day to say the least.
Jason, I hope you are doing ok. I hate to see you in pain and upset. Dont worry about the small stuff, man it will work out. Brittany was all upset too. I cant stand to see her upset...I dont know why, oh yeah, cuz I love her thats why...anyway.
It was awesome to have Susie around if just for a little while. May isnt too far away...but Cali is, so it will be tough to not have her here, but we will survive! Thanks for the picture of all of us that you drew...its especially cool that I dont have to wear glasses. Maybe Ill scan and post it.
TOnight is the first service at Hawfields and I am a little nervous. THey have such high expectations, and I know from experience how long it is going to take to transition the team to a place where we are firing on all cylinders. Hopefully they will be gracious with their patience and grace and understand that bringing me there was a good idea.
Actually looking forward to small group this week I am excited about doing the AW Tozer book. So far it is awesome. That guy had it right way back then. We dont really understand what God is like at all...we think we do and are all puffed up about it, but we really need to be knocked down a few pegs. We have no idea how to really worship a God that is so unlike us and yet wants us to draw close. One day maybe we will figure it out. WEll, this has been a pretty long post, and its almost time to go workout, so hasta la vista!

2004-12-25T12:30:00.000-05:00

samantha getting ready to open

What a great day!

2004-12-19T22:47:00.000-05:00

Susie and Kristy are scary good at keeping secrets! But, Kristy, thanks for the Christmas present! It's the best! I am so glad Susie came. Today in church I got all choked up while singing cause I looked up and saw Susie there, and just..well, yeah we miss you when you are gone! Thanks for the help with the shopping today too, it was fun (as fun as shopping can be I guess)

It was nice, but humbling and a little embarrasing to be recognized like that in church. Debbie said such incredibly nice things. Its an honor to be able to serve such great people. God has really been good to me and my family lately.

The Supertones rocked tonight. What an awesome concert! 'Nuff said. It rocked, and if you werent there, you missed it!

Well, its gettin late and I have to get up early and lift heavy things, so Im goin to bed now I guess.
Later, all you jokers.

Alrighty then!

2004-12-18T22:42:00.000-05:00

Well, I had a dandy day. WEnt to purchase a new laptop. I've been needing one for quite a while, but hadnt found a really good deal until today. So I go down to BB and of course they sold the last one right as I walked up. So I ended up driving to Charlotte to get one. Yes, it was THAT good of a deal. Believe me. And no, you cant get that deal anymore...sorry.

Oh and at the exit where the BB was, theres a Hop's ! Hop's has the best steaks anywhere.

Well, heres a shoutout to Kristy and Susie...I think you guys are the only ones who read this anyway...Susie I miss you! Were gonna talk on the phone sometime, I promise! Kristy, you absolutley rock! See you tomorrow at church and at S U P E R TO N E S!! L8R.

Sunday Sunday Sunday!

2004-12-05T22:01:00.000-05:00

I thought we had a great day at church today. Its cool to see even more new faces and even cooler to see the ones that were new become "family". Theres so many people that I would like to get to know better, but its just hard to do when theres limited time. It seems that weve had so many new people. If our regulars and all the new people ended up there on the same day we wouldnt be able to fit em in there. That would be awesome.

I think that I was a little distracted today, though. Things just didnt seem normal to me music wise today. I guess we just have those days from time to time. Not that it was bad. It was good, but just seemed like we were pushing it uphill today. I dont know probably just me.

In case some of you (youth) didnt know, theres been some people there the last 2 weeks kind of checkin our music out. I may have an opportunity to lead worship for another churches Saturday night service. Dont worry...Im not going anywhere, but its just a great opportunity. So you guys will always have something to do on Saturday night now! Im really hyped about the prospect, and I hope that it all works out and God does His thing. I love the people that I have met from there already and I hope that they are as excited as I am to do it.

WEll, its bedtime. Leave me a note. G'night.

2004-12-02T10:51:00.000-05:00

Heres the little booger. Thats about how big it is too.

Another Day

2004-10-11T16:27:00.000-04:00

Pretty good day today. I got the bumper for the Z painted. I will keep you updated as to an estimated time when it will be back on the car and on the road. I hope its not a big deal to get it back on.

I guess Im in trouble. Carrie got a ticket for an expired tag which I think I was supposed to take care of. I only had the renewal for the Z which I did, but Im sure it was my mistake. Sorry. Im in trouble, what else is new.

Had a good day at church yesterday I thought. If you werent there, you missed it. Including Steve calling Vic and Ray ladies while they were lifting weights! That was funny.
Well, another day, another post, another wasted 5 minutes. Im going to read or eat or something productive.

Sorry Suzie, Happy Birthday!

2004-10-04T20:49:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Suzie! Happy Birthday. There. I loved talking to you tonight. THanks for that link, its awesome!

Well, nothing much goin on here other than the A/C here at the house breaking down. Fortunately I am a genius and will be able to fix it, i think
Well I had a great weekend getting to spend some quality time with Carrie at a Marriage Conference. We had a great time and had some really good food together! The sushi was spectacular this weekend.

Kristy, we need to get to the bottom of this so-called 'boyfriend' thing you mentioned in your blog. You forget that I was a Private Investigator? I have my ways of getting information, so youd better start talkin!

Well, thats enough for now I guess. I think Im gonna go listen to some music and 'contemplate' some things.

ANother Hurricane

2004-09-26T22:14:00.000-04:00

Its crazy that another hurricane has hit right in the town we used to live in. Its pretty wierd seeing the pictures of places that we know that are just torn up. Im glad we arent there anymore! I mean, I used to enjoy the occasional category 1 or 2 hurricane coming by cause it was kinda cool, and not much got badly damaged, but this is another story. Hopefully everyone down there will be alright.

Had a great time tonight over at Ray and Teres. Watched some football, ate some grub, spent time w/ friends...life is good sometimes. Glad we got to hang out with JP and Mitzie. I hate it they live so far away and dont get to hang out much. Well, gotta go get in bed and get some rest before a long week. My folks are comin in this week which is cool. Ill try and post some pics of the hurricane damage in my town later.

New day, New post

2004-09-20T20:34:00.000-04:00

Ok, pretty good day today. I got to spend lots of time with the family which is fairly rare. Took Samantha to the Dr. and she got 3 shots! The first 2 didnt bother her, but that third one was a doozy. The weather was awesome today and it was nice driving around with the top down.

Ive been in a pretty good mood today for the most part. Contemplating many things like the youth group and worship. I was really pleased with the service yesterday, it was good to move everyone a little closer together. And yes, some people complained! You know, it really doesnt bother me at this point, because God is bringing people into the church who 'get it' and He can deal with those who dont. I have been having more peace about the worship and what we are doing. God is huge. And hes bigger than these little problems that I let get to me. So I do everything for Him. I know that I throw alot of new stuff in all the time and probably some dont like some of it, but I dont play for them anyway. God made me an apple, not an orange, so i am going to do what apples do. ya know.

Finally an update

2004-09-19T23:43:00.000-04:00

Just sitting here watchin my girl dressed up as tinkerbell...life is good.
Well I know its been a while since I updated, so theres probably alot that youve missed, but I promise to keep updating often.

Rant of the day: All these John Kerry supporters drive me crazy...most of them dont know anything about the man except that he isnt George Bush, so they want to vote for him. Heck, I should run for president...Im not George Bush either. I think I should have as good a shot as Kerry does. And you know, maybe the president hasnt done everything perfectly, but he has done what he had to do and for the right reasons. No one likes to see innocent people die in war and Im sure that many have died in Iraq, but wheres the outrage at the car bombers and the suicide bombers who are blowing up their own countrymen? I will vote for George Bush, not because he is NOT John Kerry, but because I believe he has done the best he could with an impossible situation. Think of the head trip it must be to wake up everyday and be the most powerful person on the planet?

Anyway, rant over...had a great time tonight at the connections meeting tonight. It was great to finally get to meet Kevin and Laura. Its always encouraging to meet new people who 'get it'. I was really impressed with the young adults this morning who came out at 8:30am to clean the church up (Emma, Eric, and Luke rock) That was awesome.

More about the church later...gotta get in bed soon so I can get up for workin out tomorrow.

Today was the day...

2004-08-30T01:24:00.000-04:00

Well kinda sad day today, but I refuse to be sad that Suzie left for California today. Why, because I know its not the end of our relationship, and I am really proud of her no matter what she does. I will miss her alot. A lot more than I thought I would, and not just cause I wont have anyone to bring me Starbucks anymore! Kristy, that can be your thing now! Just kidding! It may be the end of a season, but I am looking forward to many happy reunions and seeing what God is doing in her life. I consider it such a blessing that she has become an important part of my families life. And Suzie, you are, and you always will be family to us. And Kristy too. Kristy, you are awesome. Your an awesome sister to suzie, and an awesome friend to all of us, and Im really looking forward to lots more awesome time with you! Awesome. Yeah. You rock! Awe--some.

We had a really great time tonight at IPUM. We did some music for them and had a great time of worship. We're looking forward to doing it again! Shockwave people you are the best. Thanks for all the support tonight. Britt and Kalyn, you guys were amazing, and the drama team too. Im really blown away by what you guys are doing. Now lets share it with everyone! I know that many lives were touched in some way by what you guys did tonight. Well, adios. See you all Wednesday.

2004-08-20T14:11:00.000-04:00

I am tired of it being hot. I dont want it to get cold, though. Nice fall weather would be good.
Well Im busy today working on websites and I have a church meeting and I need to go over to Katie's church and see the place we are going on the 29th. I think that is going to be pretty cool.
Lets see, what else is goin on? Ummm, music playing now is: Victory Fellowship Band: Shining Light. AWESOME CD. Get it now. Feeling a little sad about Suzie leaving soon. But excited that Rebecca is coming to church and Shockwave. And also Alicia being there, and bringing Courtney. Courtney was cool. I hope she like us and comes back too. LAter.

2004-08-19T18:03:00.000-04:00

Some of my favorite people. Arent they purty?

2004-08-16T20:04:00.000-04:00

..put ya rockface on, grrl!

2004-08-13T23:32:00.000-04:00

you though you had a bad day...

2004-08-13T23:26:00.000-04:00

guess who!!

2004-08-13T23:19:00.000-04:00

while im at it..heres another...she had no idea..lol

2004-08-13T23:17:00.000-04:00

nice little picture i have....i will delete it after you see it

2004-08-13T06:48:00.000-04:00

Heres Kristy and Luke at the place formerly and soon to be known again as Krispy Kreme. Nice!

Its late

2004-08-10T02:02:00.000-04:00

Its late so Ill make this one quick. Just had to come by and grab some clothes...we are house/greyhound sitting for Vic and Amy while they are away to Switzerland. Hope they are having a good time. I sure am. Had to clean up dog poop today...no, really I am having a good time over there. Whatever I can do for them I will. They did so much for me after 'the incident'. If you dont know what 'the incident' is...just ask. Anyway had a pretty good day today studying and getting ready for some church stuff. Theres some really exciting things happening at the church and I am really hoping that all the new folks will get on board and stick around. Stinks that the youth will be goin back to school. WE can still have b-fast every once in a while I hope. Well. Gotsta get. Later.

2004-08-07T20:15:00.000-04:00

My new favorite picture...Josh rawks! Hey whos guitar is that you're playin'?

2004-08-07T20:14:00.000-04:00

So this one is for the Shockwave guys...how would you guys like to go camping on this hill? We can if you want to.

2004-08-07T18:59:00.000-04:00

Heres Samantha in the mountains for the Thompson family reunion this weekend. This is the view from Aunt Kat's house.

2004-08-02T19:17:00.000-04:00

Blurry pic of Tree63. They were awesome. If you missed it, then you stink. Highlights were Blessed Be Your Name, Joy, Treasure, and Can I See Your Face rocked. Samantha and I went up front adn threw up the "rawkfists". Coolest point was them going into "One Love" the Bob Marley tune. He was a very inspiring guy too. Amazing that he has only been a Christian for about 7-8 years and he writes such great songs for the Lord. Definitley doing what he loves and does best.

Todays happenins'

2004-08-01T19:03:00.000-04:00

Went to church today...duh. Good service I thought. Its funny I was just reading about Moses this morning...Anyway, looking forward to the Tree63 concert tonight. I will post my 'review' of it tonight when I get home. Ill see if I can snap off a few pics too. Went to lunch with Vic and Amy, and Ray and Tere today. That was fun. Good wings, but the service stunk. Carrie just left for work. I hate it that she has to work. Hopefully she wont have to for long. Ill be back after the concert tonight. Pray for whirrled peas. Later.

...another thing...

2004-07-30T23:11:00.000-04:00

Well, just wanted to post again and make my page look somewhat full.
I promise I will think of something cool to say later. Listening to switchfoot on iTunes right now. All for now. End transmission.

2004-07-30T19:18:00.000-04:00

Well me and Samantha finished the rotor and pad job on the Z. Looks good. Now if I could only drive it....
Posted by Hello

2004-07-29T11:19:00.000-04:00

Workin on the Z car.
Posted by Hello

So I think I got it Now.

2004-07-28T15:20:00.000-04:00

Well this should be interesting. Anyway I need to get to bed now, cause I have to get up and workout with Vic. Had a good night at youth tonight. If you guys are reading this...."You ROck!"
Im looking forward to getting my car all fixed up again. Putting new rotors on tomorrow I guess.
Well see about that tomorrow. Later.

First Post

2004-07-28T15:02:00.000-04:00

Ok, so here I am. And there...you are. Why you really want to read this I dont know. Seems like a cool idea though. Stop by anytime and check out what I have to say. Im sure that it will inspire you...to go do something else.