Recliner Reflections

Awesome!

2010-10-10T23:11:00.000-04:00

While at Catalyst last week, I heard this song in instantly feel in love with it and can't get it out of my head. Be careful, it might stick in yours as well :) The song is Beautiful Things by Gungor.

Great Video

2010-10-10T20:47:00.003-04:00

I went to Catalyst last week in Atlanta and they showed this Tripp and Tyler video featuring Chris Tomlin. I couldn't love and laugh at this more.

Sometimes you just have to . . .

2010-08-10T15:16:00.004-04:00

Last week our family spent a few days at the Outer Banks of NC. We only live about 1.5 hours away, but we don't get down there as much as we'd like. In fact, we've only been over night at OBX a few times in the 11 years that we've been this close.

I'm one of those people that loves to play on the beach and play in the ocean but I am a little picky. I don't like getting all sandy and have to live being sandy for hours on end. I like to leave as much sand on the beach and not take it with me.

Also, when I play in the ocean, I don't like seaweed and sea creatures rubbing on my legs and I certainly don't want to see any sea creatures. If I do, I'm out. Something chewing, biting, stinging or stabbing me on a sneak attack is not my idea of fun.

So, our last day on the beach looked great. The water was warmer (it had been 57F) and the waves were bigger (which meant more fun!). One problem - jellyfish! I mean, loads of jellyfish. You couldn't look in the water and not see jellyfish. If you were walking down the beach, there were jellyfish on the shore like seashells. I'd never seen so many jellyfish.

It seemed that the cold water had killed most or all that we saw. So, what do you do? Perfect conditions, except for the jellyfish. That's a pretty big except in my book. Imagine putting five or six of those things in your bathtub and then getting in - yep, now you have the picture.

Believe it or not, we sucked it up, played scared and swam with the jellyfish. We had a blast! I mean, we had those things all over us. I don't know how many I stepped on (felt like stepping on a banana peel).

It might have been the most fun I've ever had. I imagine the adventure with the jellyfish added to it. However, we almost missed out because we were afraid. I wonder, how many great adventures we miss out on because we are afraid?

Now, before you go too far, we weren't stupid. We noticed that no one else was writhing in pain, so we assumed those things weren't stinging people. So we tested it. We went in shallow water, allowed them to bump into us and us not get stung, before we went out deeper.

We did end up with some 'tingly' sensations from time to time, but it was well worth it.

What about you? What are you missing out on because you are afraid?

Sometimes you just have to swim with jellyfish!

Playing Not to Lose

2010-07-21T20:37:00.002-04:00

Found this post over at Pastor Steven Furtick's blog and thought it was great!

A phrase you hear all the time in sports is “playing not to lose.” This refers to a team who is either winning a game or is better than its opponent, but is so afraid of losing that instead of going for the win, they play it safe and simply don’t try to make any major mistakes. Not surprisingly these teams rarely amount to anything. They’ll win an occasional game, but not much more. And when they lose it’s usually in the final minutes of a game they could have easily put away much earlier. But now it’s too late to stage a comeback.

I think this attitude and mindset extends beyond the playing field. I would say that most people play not to lose. In other words, most of us live in such a way that our main focus is on not ruining our lives with some kind of a major failure.

Typically ruining your life is associated with a big decision that you make. You make it actively. Definitively. Maybe you do something completely stupid with your money and go bankrupt. Or maybe you have a major moral failure and devastate your personal life.

Most of us are so afraid of these things that we focus all of our energies on not doing them. And none of us should want to. We should be careful not to ruin the lives God has given us.

But there’s something that’s just as dangerous and more subtle that we should be just as afraid of. And that’s wasting our lives.

In fact, wasting your life has the potential to be more destructive because you don’t realize it’s happened until it’s too late. You wake up one day and your life is gone. You might still be able to make something of it, but you won’t be able to regain the time you’ve lost.

God hasn’t placed you on this earth for the sake of simply avoiding making mistakes. He put you here to do something. Something significant. Something lasting. The measure of your life isn’t in the mistakes you don’t make but in the measurable impact you leave.

The people who should be most afraid of ruining their lives are the ones who aren’t wasting them. They have the most to lose.

Cheerwine Krispy Kreme Doughnut

2010-07-07T21:30:00.005-04:00

A little while ago I began hearing about a Cheerwine Krispy Kreme Doughnut. Since I was a kid, a Krispy Kreme Doughnut was a treat, and a Cheerwine (it's a soda) was a treat.

But to combine them - all I could think of was the greatness of what happened when chocolate and peanut butter was combined - the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup! So, I couldn't wait to try it!

Well, we don't live near a Krispy Kreme. So, last week when the kids and I went to my parents' in Winston-Salem (the home of Krispy Kreme), it was the big chance. We made a special point to go to Krispy Kreme - even loaded up mom & dad.

I really talked up this new doughnut, everyone was excited. We got into KK and was told that they don't sell them in the store yet, but you could get them at grocery stores. Whaa?

We got a couple of consolation doughnuts and headed to the grocery stores. Stopped by two on the way back to mom & dad's - sold out! Whaa?

Needless to say - I gave up for a few days. Today I had to go back to High Point for a meeting. Stopped in another KK, same story. Stopped in a couple of grocery stores. Same story. Crud!

I guess I just won't get to try that new doughnut . . . I'll back in the area next week, maybe better luck then.

I got back to Hertford - stopped by our Food Lion to get some apples and was walking down the milk aisle and guess what I saw - whaa? Cheerwine Krispy Kreme Doughnuts.

Yep. I drove all over the place looking for these things and they were at the grocery store closest to my house. Go figure.

Oh, yeah - if you like Cheerwine and you like Krispy Kreme Doughnuts . . . then this new doughnut is like the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup . . . awesome!

Vacation Week

2010-07-06T07:53:00.003-04:00

This week must be vacation week for a lot of folks. Not for us, but for lots of other folks.

The crowd at church was off some Sunday, most of those not there were at the beach. At the Y this morning, nearly empty. We went to Target the other day in Chesapeake, nearly empty. The coffee shop this morning - just a few people.

So, it must be crowded somewhere. Probably crowded on vacation. That's fine. I can handle where I am not waiting in line. It's cool with me :-) Enjoy yourself!

Milestone

2010-06-29T22:01:00.004-04:00

Today our little Hyundai reached 200,000 miles. Amy and I were on our way to our coffee shop for a little date.

I like milestones. This one shows that we have an older car (2003) that we have driven a lot (we've put all but 7 miles on it). That car has been paid off for years.

In fact, in May we purchased our first vehicle that we had the money to pay for in full (a 2005 Chevy Trailblazer 4WD). We've decided to save money and pay for stuff with cash. Yep, sounds weird. But, that's the way we roll.

Two Rights

2010-06-26T15:50:00.002-04:00

Yesterday Katherine and I had some time together and went to the mall in Elizabeth City. We happened by a shoe store and Katherine found some shoes she really liked. Plus, they were on sale! "Sure, you can get them."

We pay for them, walk around a few other places at the mall, and then leave to go to my favorite coffee shop, Muddy's. On the way to Muddy's, Katherine decided to put on her new shoes. She put on the right shoe. Then got the other shoe, looked at it, and it was another right shoe. She looked at her right foot with the new shoe on, and said "Did I put the shoe on the wrong foot?" Nope, we had bought two right shoes. We laughed and laughed. Good times.

(We did go back and exchange a right for a left.)

Across the Stage

2010-06-09T11:23:00.003-04:00

It's been a while since posting. It's not that there hasn't been anything going on - it's just that there's been so much that it's hard to slow down and put it into words at times.

Tomorrow night our oldest son graduates from High School. It's gonna be special. Amy is a member of the school board and will be on stage when he gets his diploma. Kendall is the valedictorian and will give a speech. Last Thursday at the Baccalaureate service, I was privileged to speak to the graduating seniors. It was fun. The local paper did an article about the whole family deal with this year's graduation.

I'm really proud of Kendall. I'm proud of what he has accomplished. I expected him to graduate from high school. But to be valedictorian, wow! We knew early on when we were homeschooling him that learning came easy to him. So, when he went to public school, we got him to skip a grade. The school folks weren't so sure. I guess it turned out ok :-)

I'm probably more proud of who he is. He is probably the most dependable person I know. If I ask him to do something, and I am relying of him for it to be done, it is good as done. I'm also finding that some things he can now do better than me. (don't let him know). Well done, son!

We've got a crowd coming to town beginning today for the big event tomorrow. If we're not careful, we could be a movie sequel to Chevy Chase's Christmas Vacation.

Driving by Feel

2010-03-30T06:25:00.000-04:00

Have you ever been somewhere several times, don't exactly know the directions, but once you're en route you 'feel' your way there?

Usually when I try that, it doesn't work out so good. My 'feeler' is usually slow. That means I have to turn around several times, get irritated, and usually having to make a phone call to get real directions.

However, on Saturday, it worked perfectly. I was meeting my parents, my sister and my uncle at a family cemetery. It had been several years since I had been there. I was not exactly sure of all the turns and knew none of the road names. I headed in the right direction and went by 'feel'. Several landmarks had changed, but I didn't miss a turn. Cool!

Life is like that. We don't know all of the turns that we should make. We don't know all of the answers. We have to go by 'feel' sometimes. When I'm following Christ, that 'feel' isn't my good guess, but rather Christ's leading.

I don't know about you, but I'd rather be led that go on a guess. How about you?

Not Funny Any More!

2010-03-29T18:15:00.002-04:00

I wrote earlier about our goats getting our paper. That day it was cute and kinda funny.

Not now. Those jokers are now going to our newspaper box, pulling out the paper, and eating it. The other day, we were watching for the paper, saw it delivered, grabbed a coat, and those goats got to the newspaper box before I could. Dang!

I don't mind them eating the paper, it's actually an easy way to recycle. Just let me read it first!

Race Weekend Highlights

2010-03-21T19:35:00.004-04:00

This is the 4th year that my family has gone to Virginia Beach for the Shamrock races, so it has started to become somewhat of a tradition. In 2007, I ran in the 1/2 marathon. In 2008 and 2009 two other families joined us and the guys ran in the 8k.

This year, the three families returned. Danny, Todd and Corrie (her first!) ran in the 8k (5 miles). Amy and I ran in the half-marathon (13.1 miles). It was Amy's first! Here were some observations:

Going to Olive Garden on Friday is definitely a tradition that I don't want to give up. I love going to OG, but going with a group of friends is awesome! It's also guilt-free - knowing that you can eat a lot and burn it off running in the race!
Love staying on the ocean front where you can hear the ocean in your room and see the sunrise over the water.
Reminded that I'm glad we don't live in an apartment. Loud neighbors at 3am would get old.
It was fun watching Todd, Corrie and Danny run on Saturday. I hadn't watched many races since I'm usually in them - it was fun trying to find them in the crowd. It was also fun watching those that won the race - they basically sprinted the whole race.
Saw the craziest thing - after the 8k, runners were stretching out so they wouldn't get stiff. One of the runners - a guy really in shape - was stretching while smoking a cigarette! No one was with him, so that meant that he carried his cigarettes with him for 5 miles. Crazy!
Our race began Sunday morning at 7am. We left the hotel at 6:30 t0 walk to the start line. It was weird to be walking while it was still dark with thousands of others.
Along the race course was several were water & Gatorade stops. There was even one place where people were handing out beer to runners.
It was fun to hear folks yell out your name and cheer you on. (my name was on race # that I wore).
After finishing the race, it is quite satisfying for the next few minutes to soak in the knowledge that 1). the run is over 2). I finished it 3). it's time to relax.

After showering and checking out of the hotel, Amy and I went back over the the festivities at the finish line. We got some Irish Stew, sat on the beach, and watched the marathoners finish. We were feeling pretty good about ourselves until we realized that those that were finishing running now had run twice as far as we did. Wow. What we had done was real tough - I can't imagine a marathon.

Who knows . . . maybe some day.

How'd You Do?

2010-03-19T14:55:00.000-04:00

This weekend a group of us from church are headed to Virginia Beach to run in a couple of different races. Three will be running in the 8K race tomorrow morning. Amy and I will be running in the 1/2 marathon on Sunday morning.

The question "How'd You Do?" will be asked, and it will be referring to my race time, or how I felt, or if I finished.

The question actually goes back to many months ago when we started training for this distance. How we do in the race has to do with how well we trained. You can't make up for the lack of training.

For us - we expect to do well. We've trained well. We don't expect to be faster than we were when we trained. We expect to finish. And finish well. That's what we've trained for.

That's true in life, too. (Had to put that in there).

Now looking forward to eating at Olive Garden and spending time on the beach!

The Paper

2010-03-19T09:45:00.004-04:00

Went out to get the paper earlier this morning and this is all that I found.

Crazy.

It's not unusual to be missing a section or even the whole paper, but to have only a chewed-off piece left was really weird.

I looked around and spied these two looking at me - hmmm . . .

Change of Routine

2010-03-15T14:49:00.005-04:00

I know its been a while - I'm trying to get back in the routine of posting.

We're trying something new now at the church office. For years, we have worked in the office from Tuesday through Friday - with me having Mondays and Saturdays to be more flexible.

Starting today - we're in the office on Mondays - Thursdays. We'll try it and see how it works. Like a lot of things, it's an experiment. If it doesn't work, we'll change it.

One thing I already like - staff meeting on Monday. We get to celebrate the big things that happened over the weekend. Two of big things that we celebrated:

1) at the teen event on Friday - almost double the # of teens - WOW!

2) new folks at church again yesterday! One person drove over an

hour (one way) to be with us for the first time!

Great stuff is happening at Bagley Swamp! God is good!

Big Stone Gap - Friday

2010-02-12T13:57:00.003-05:00

Today is the day that we are finishing up our projects. The closet has been completed and a coat of primer is being applied as I write. The two large rooms that we hung sheet rock have been sanded this morning and the primer is going on this afternoon. It seems that we should finish up just about at quitting time today.

Last night Shirley and her crew fixed us a rice, beans and sausage casserole. It was quite good. We went to Dairy Queen afterwards for our weekly fix of ice cream. Tonight we plan to go out to eat at Pizza Hut.

Last night we had more great conversations about spiritual things. Several shared of times when they've been hurt and God has brought them through the pain. It was quite touching and we could really feel God's presence. This week has been a phenomenal week for us as we have grown closer to God and to each other.

Keep us in your prayers. Amy's (my wife) grandfather passed away last night. Please keep them and myself in your prayers. I will be preaching the funeral on Sunday. Also keep Pastor Todd in your prayers. Since I will be away at a funeral, he will be preaching at Bagley Swamp. Keep our team in your prayers at we finish up today and as we travel tomorrow. We could run into some snow.

That's it from Big Stone Gap. Thanks for checking in.

Big Stone Gap - Thursday

2010-02-11T14:02:00.004-05:00

As far as the work goes, no real updates. We're still in the 'mudding' and sanding process with the sheet rock. The plan is to have that mostly finished up by quitting time today so tomorrow we can put on a coat of primer. The closet has been built near the bedroom that we painted the other day. Sheet rock is being hung, a light and outlet installed, and the door hung. Our plan is to be finished with this mostly by today, so we can get a coat of primer on it tomorrow.

Last night we had baked spaghetti, salad and chocolate cake at the same church, fixed again by Shirley and her crew. She shared with us about God's call on her life, how she got from Anderson, SC to Big Stone Gap, VA and how God has used her and her family to minister to children and teens in this community. Her son, David, runs The Edge, the teen center that has bands to come in a play each Saturday night. Check out The Edge's myspace here.

Some have asked about the snoring situation. On Tuesday evening when we went to Lowes, several sets of ear plugs were purchased, so there has been more rest:-)

Today the weather is still quite cold, though it felt pretty good at lunch when we walked down to the same restaurant that we ate at yesterday. Today, some got the chicken livers, while the rest had the hamburger steak. That place has good food and seems to have a good business. It's one of those places where the older waitress calls you 'son' and the younger ones call you 'hon' or 'sweetie'. You gotta love it!

After lunch we spent a few minutes milling through some of the downtown shops and meeting some of the locals. We struck several conversations with folks, most of them wanting to know where we were from. I've a pretty good southern accent, but I believe the folks here have event more of one :)

Gerald is smiling more than usual today. He is a grandpa again. Colton Adam Christian was born this morning to Brandy and Shane Christian. From what we know, mom and son are well. Congrats!

Great conversations again last night! God is at work in us and among us! I'm more pumped now than ever about what God is doing and what God is gonna do through Bagley Swamp.

Continue to pray for us - we're praying for you!

Big Stone Gap - Wednesday

2010-02-10T15:04:00.003-05:00

Yesterday afternoon was quite productive. Annie, Christy and I finished painting that room that we had started earlier in the day. As you may remember, we were painting over paneling, so we had put kilz on it, then several coats of paint. We were surprised that we were able to finish. We thought that it would take us two days.

The guys finished hanging the sheet rock. They also taped all of the joints and put one coat of 'mud' on all joints and screws. They left kerosene heaters on last night so the 'mud' would dry.

Last night we went back to the same church to have dinner, prepared again by Shirley and her crew. We had tacos and all of the fixings. It was very good.

After dinner we went to Lowe's in Wise, VA, about 15 miles away. We needed to get some trim supplies for finishing up the sheet rock trim around windows and doors. While we were in Wise, it started to snow hard, but by the time that we got back to Big Stone Gap, it wasn't snowing.

Last night we had probably one of the best discussions I've ever had with a group of people about God and how we can try to impact our community for Christ. It was great! Before we knew it, it was 11:30 and well past some folks' bedtimes.

This morning we woke to snow covering the landscape. It's only snowed a couple of inches, and continues to snow now, but it doesn't seem to be accumulating. The temperature has been in the 20s and when the wind catches you just right, it's real cold.

The guys spent the morning working on the sheet rock some more, putting on the final coat of 'mud' so that it can dry. Some of the crew worked on the trim work around the windows and doors. We went to lunch in town at the Mutual Drug & Cafeteria. Most of us had chicken & dumplings or meatloaf. It was real good.

This afternoon we are finishing up on the 'mud' and trim on the sheet rock so we can start sanding first thing in the morning. We are also building a closet outside of the room that we painted yesterday.

This evening we are headed back to eat dinner with Shirley and her crew. Shirley is going to share with us her story of how she came to Big Stone Gap, how she started her ministry, and how it's working today. You can find out some about it here.

I'm not sure where we're headed after supper tonight - we've been to Wal-Mart and to Lowes - so we'll see.

I look forward to another great evening. Can't wait to see what His plans are . . .

Pray for us - we're praying for you :-)

Big Stone Gap - Tuesday

2010-02-09T13:55:00.002-05:00

Yesterday afternoon we finished up with the insulation in the building we are working in. There are two large rooms, and one room we finished hanging all of the sheet rock. This morning some of the guys started putting 'mud' on the sheet rock that was already hung, while others worked on hanging sheet rock in the other room.

Annie, Christy and I began painting a room in another building this morning. It had paneling on the walls, so we put kilz on it this morning and started to put the first coat of paint when we broke for lunch. That's the work status as of now.

For supper yesterday we ate at Artesian Baptist Church where Shirley and her helpers had cooked us lasanga. Shirley is the director of HIS Ministries, where we are doing the work that we have done so far.

After supper, we took to mandatory trip to Wal-Mart in Norton, VA. There is a Wal-Mart in Big Stone Gap, but it was an old one, we wanted the Super version. After getting more snacks, we returned to our house for the evening.

It seems that the snoring increased last night, at least by some reports. The 'non-snorers' are thinking that they may be well trained in the art of snoring by the weeks end :)

We've had some rain today. Not a hard rain, most the occasional shower. It is supposed to snow tonight - 1 to 4 inches possible.

We're laughing a lot, getting to know each other and enjoying each other. Keep us in your prayers - we're praying for you.

Big Stone Gap - Monday

2010-02-08T14:00:00.002-05:00

Ten of us from Bagley Swamp are in Big Stone Gap, VA this week on a mission trip. I hope to update daily while we are here. We'll see how it goes. My Internet connection is at the McDonald's a mile or two away, so it shouldn't be that hard.

We drove into Big Stone Gap, VA on Sunday around 4:45 pm. As we traveled, we were on four-lane highways the whole way except for about 10 miles. The roads were clear of snow and dry. At the top of some mountains we saw a lot of snow, sometimes snow and ice still in the trees.

The house we are staying in has three bedrooms, and no beds. So . . . we are on the air mattresses and cots that we brought with us. The two women are in one room, three guys in another room, and four guys in the third bedroom. Myself and our host, Ken, are in the living room. So . . . by the end of the trip, we ought to be real close.

Lots of laughter this morning as each told stories of waking during the night to hear the others snoring. We'll probably sleep sounder later in the week when we are more tired (probably snore more, too).

We ended up watching the Super Bowl last night in the lobby of a Comfort Inn up the road. Nice big screen HDTV. We thought about staying for the free breakfast, but decided we'd better not push our luck.

This morning we have been working on finishing insulating a new building for His Ministries in town. Right before lunch we began putting the drywall on the ceiling. It was cold when we started this morning, but the building we are working in was warmed up by kerosene heaters, so by lunch we had our heavy coats off.

This afternoon we are working hard on the sheet rock and hoping to finish it tomorrow. This evening we plan to eat at a local church. Here will be the interesting part - there is only one bathroom/shower in the house. Who gets the hot water?

Keep us in your prayers - we're praying for you!

Sledding in the Swamp!

2010-01-30T17:45:00.002-05:00

Not exactly sledding in an actual swamp, but the area where we live is known as Bagley Swamp. Yes, there is a swamp there, but we don't sled in it.

Our first winter in Bagley Swamp (1999) we noticed that there is no real place to sled when it snows. We are basically in the flat-lands. We also noticed that it doesn't snow much. So when it does snow, drop everything and play in it.

I grew up in a neighborhood that had several huge hills that were awesome to sled on. But I had no idea of how to sled on flat ground.

Once in Bagley Swamp, it didn't take us long to figure it out. Tie one end of a rope to your sled. Tie the other end to the back of a four-wheeler (ATV). Hold on!

Since we don't get a lot of snow, the sleds tend to take a beating being pulled over ground where the snow has melted. We've gone through several sleds.

Our biggest 'redneck' sled was an old suitcase. It worked fairly well, but looked . . . redneck.

The best ever - we had today. Our neighbor had a truck hood. He tied it to the back of his 4-wheeler. That thing was super smooth and fast. Clark Griswold style. Awesome! It was like being pulled on a tube behind a boat, but no wake. All of the kids, and even me, had a blast.

Just a little wind burn. What's your favorite way to sled?

Sunday Night Download

2010-01-24T18:30:00.003-05:00

Random thoughts this Sunday evening:

New experience this morning. When I got to the church at o'dark early, I was surprised to find someone asleep on the steps of our side entrance.
Great worship this morning, especially at our second service. Have been preaching this month on God's principles for handling money - probably have had more people contact me to discuss this sermon series than any other. Hmmm.
Similar note: we had more people to show up at Financial Peace University this afternoon that we had expected! Like . . . twice the amount. Awesome!
Heading off to Big Stone Gap, VA in a few weeks on a mission trip. Getting excited.
Had fun this afternoon watching my boys and some teens try and do some Dude Perfect videos. Here's one of their shots. Here are some more.
One of our teens was hurt on Thursday and had to be hospitalized. It was awesome to see him in the 8:30 worship this morning. God is good!
Looking forward to hanging out with some pastors tomorrow in Greenville.
Glad the Colts won! The Super Bowl should be good - no matter if it's the Vikings or the Saints against the Colts. For the third year in a row . . . I'll be away on a mission trip, but we'll find a TV somewhere.
Boys are talking about some wings to go with the Vikings/Saints game . . . sounds good. Peace out.

Great Day!

2010-01-18T21:12:00.002-05:00

Today has been a great day!

It started early with meeting with some guys at 6:30am for a time of prayer. I look forward to getting with these guys and starting the day and the week!
Went for a nice, 4-mile run. Perfect weather. Not too cold. Not too hot. Just right.
Took it easy around the house for a while with the family.
Spent some time at the office doing some sermon prep for this Sunday.
Had several conversations today with folks about yesterday at Bagley Swamp! Great stuff! Life change is happening and is becoming contagious.
Spent several hours on the road today, driving to my parents in Winston-Salem. Listened to a book via my new Kindle. That was really cool!
Stopped by Dicks Sporting Goods and purchased some new running gear. Found the running pants I've been looking at for a while for 1/2 the price.
Went out to eat with Mom & Dad at our favorite Japanese place. Looked forward to it all day. Was not disappointed.
Got Mom & Dad's cat to chase a laser for a long time. Cats can really be funny.
Looking forward to a good night sleep. For some reason, I always sleep well at Mom & Dad's.

How was your Monday?

Just Saved $1000!

2010-01-05T15:10:00.005-05:00

I can't believe it.

No, I'm not trying to sign you up for anything, or trying to get you to buy anything. But I did just save over $1000 for 2010. Here's what I did.

I've been seeing these commercials for the new phones, blackberrys and droids. I've had my HTC smart phone for over 2 years and was looking to upgrade. I was excited about all of the bells and whistles that those new phones have. In fact, I would really like to have an iPhone, but AT&T doesn't have service where I live, so no iPhone.

I started comparing phones and realized that I really didn't need to use my phone for the internet. I can tweet by using text messaging. I mainly used my smart phone to sync my contacts and calendar.

I started searching, and found software that could sync my Mac's calendar and address book with an LG enV3. I could get the LG without getting the data plan, saving $70 a month/ $840 a year.

When I went to Verizon to make the switch, I was told that I had to keep that old plan I had, since we still had 2 Alltel phones that would not work on the new plan. So, I wasn't going to save any money. How much would it cost to get 3 LG phones? Buy one ($79), get one free. Then have to buy the third one. I would get a $50 rebate on the first one, so $108 for 3 phones, not so bad.

The lady entered my information into the computer, stared at the screen, and said I've never seen this before. Somehow, I had some kind of credits or something, but I was going to get all three phone for $11.64 after I get my rebate. Wow!

They talked me into getting insurance on my phones @ $6 per phone per month. The insurance would replace the phone if it is lost or broken. If a phone is broken or lost, we don't qualify to get a new phone for 2 years, so we would have to pay retail, about $300. Counting all 4 phones on our plan, that's $24 a month in insurance. After thinking about it, I called and had it canceled.

Here's why. Over the two years that we would have the insurance before we would qualify for a new phone, we would pay $576 for that insurance on all 4 phones (4 phones x $6 /month x 24 months). That almost paying for two $300 replacement phones. Since we don't have a history of losing/breaking phones, I thought we would keep the $576. We can use it to replace a phone if we mess on up or for something else. I'm voting for something else.

How are you saving money?

Trampoline #4

2010-01-01T20:19:00.003-05:00

One of the Christmas gifts that we bought for our family this year was a trampoline, our fourth. No, we don't have four of them out in the yard, but we have worn three of them out.

Why get another one? Are we secret gymnasts? I don't think so. The kids play on it from time to time.

But our favorite is to play '21', the basketball game. We have 10 foot basketball goal next to it, the boys and I get on our knees, Katherine stands up, and we play. It is virtually a huge wrestling match, with very few rules. Lots of laughter, a few bruises, and something that we have done for years. The colder it is, the better. We've even cleared snow off of it to play. It's something special that we do together.

Tonight, we broke in the new one.

Oh, yeah. I usually win.

Number 1

2010-01-01T16:52:00.003-05:00

Yesterday I posted about listening to the Daily Audio Bible last year and by doing so, I listened to the entire Bible last year. Well, yesterday was #365 and today is #1. Yep, starting it all over today.

Also, went on a long run this morning. Looking forward to running in the Shamrock Half-marathon on March 21. I like running, but need some goal that I'm working toward. So, for now, the Shamrock will do.

What have you been up to so far this year?

Number 365

2009-12-31T08:06:00.000-05:00

Today I listened to the last Daily Audio Bible podcast of the year, therefore have listened to the entire Bible in 2009. Yeah!

I plan to listen again in 2010 and so can you. The Bible is divided into 365 daily readings, with each day having a reading from the Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs. The readers will offer some introduction to each book of the Bible and will usually offer some insight after each day's reading. Check it out at www.dailyaudiobible.com.

Here's the easy part, the days that I couldn't get the podcast due to being away, it was real easy to catch up. I could listen to more than one at a time while traveling, exercising, or whatever.

I don't suggest that you just listen to the Bible and never read - but I have found this to be a great supplement to my regular study. Join me in 2010.

Getting Clean

2009-12-30T19:26:00.003-05:00

Our van was filthy. It seemed like it has been raining for months. Our driveway was a mess. Mud holes and mud left a brown haze on our van and little incentive to wash it. We could wash it, have it spotless, and drive on our driveway once and be back where we started.

So, while we were visiting family after Christmas, I decided to take the van and go through one of the 'spotless' car washes. Kaleb went with me and we picked an 'Auto Spa'. The lines were long for two-bay automated wash. We waited patiently and even calculated that the 'super wash' lasted 7 minutes. That's what we were getting.

We were in luck. The 'super wash' was only $6, $2 off. Cool. We spend out 7 minutes getting sprayed on, soaked, rinsed, clear coat protected and a bunch of other stuff. Finally, we're done and clean.

We were home admiring how clean was when Kaleb says, "I've never noticed that before." What?

One of the wheel covers was missing. Dang! Must have come off in the car wash. So we went back to get it.

There was still a line at the car wash. Luckily, when we arrived, the car in the bay we used was leaving. I ran up to the car waiting to enter and asked if I could look for my wheel cover. Sure!

Kaleb and I ran in quickly to see if we could find the wheel cover. Not seeing it, I was on my way out when the laser sensor detected me and assumed I was the next car and proceeded to blast me!

The half second I was in there was enough to soak me! I mean, soaked to the bone. When I ran around to the car wash exit, I found my wheel cover.

Kaleb didn't get a drop on him, but he did have a big smile on his face.

Didn't Take the Easy Way

2009-12-17T15:58:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was my bride's birthday. Usually the kids and I just buy a cake from the grocery store to make things quicker and easier - but we didn't do that yesterday. Katherine and I made Amy's birthday cake!

Don't get too excited . . . it was box cake. You know - the kind that you empty the box, mix in some oil, eggs, water and then bake for 30 minutes.

We had fun, but I couldn't wait for the layers to cool to put icing on them, so I stuck them in the fridge. It worked. Also, being a big fan of icing, we put more than the normal amount to make it 'extra good'.

For some reason, that cake looked better and tasted better - at least to Katherine and I. Sometimes it has to do with what you put into it.

Oh, yeah, Happy Birthday Amy!

Faith in Action Video

2009-10-18T20:13:00.005-04:00

Several have asked, so here is the video that we showed today at church from our Faith in Action day on October 11.

Faith in Action

2009-10-14T20:26:00.004-04:00

This past Sunday was Faith in Action Sunday at Bagley Swamp! You can check out the story here.

Too Bad My Kids Weren't With Me . . .

2009-10-06T11:05:00.003-04:00

This morning I went to the YMCA for my morning workout. I took a change of clothes to shower there. My plan was to then head to the local coffee house for a time of resting, reflection and reading. Then run a few errands before heading to the office.

After getting out of the shower and getting dressed, I realized that I had forgotten my shoes. All I had was my work-out sneakers. No big deal, except for the fact that I had on dark pants and dark socks. Crud. Embarrassment or Coffee. Who cares, I put on my white sneakers and head on over to the coffee house.

I know I looked like a dork, but I wanted my coffee and my time of resting, reflecting and reading. My only regret, my kids weren't with me. It was a wasted chance for me to once again embarrass them in public . . . (Usually I can do that without trying - this would have been especially good!)

Sunday Night Download

2009-09-27T20:13:00.002-04:00

Just a few thoughts this evening:

Grill Fest was really amazing this morning at Bagley Swamp Church. Our outdoor worship was moved inside due to the weather. Our team had to do a lot of improvising, and it turned out great. Huge crowd. Way to go Bagley Swamp!
Met a pile of new folks this morning, made a lot of connections. Lots of folks searching.
Despite 2 inches of rain overnight, we still had most of our activity outside. With around 300 folks there, we didn't have enough room inside anywhere to eat. The radar showed us getting rain at noon, but we never saw any. Thank you, Lord.
Can't believe the Tarheels got spanked by Georgia Tech yesterday. Looks like we didn't really show up.
The Redskins haven't looked too hot this year, so I wasn't real surprised that they lost to the Lions (their first win in 20 games). Disappointed, but not surprised.
Soccer kicks into high gear this week at our house. A game each night, Monday-Thursday. I believe that is our schedule for the month of October.
Looking forward to our Faith In Action projects coming up on October 11!
Got some great news from one of my buddies about how God has provided relief from some medical bills!

Time to get some rest!

Early Morning Runs

2009-09-23T08:12:00.003-04:00

I have switched my exercise routine some lately. I was going to the YMCA five mornings a week, but lately have I have been jogging a few mornings a week in our neighborhood and going to the Y on the other days.

On my jogging days, I enjoy the cool mornings, the bright stars, the sounds of nature waking and the gradual lightening of the skies. Somehow, this makes me feel closer to God.

When do you feel close to God?

Cash for My Clunker

2009-08-13T18:52:00.006-04:00

We've got a 20 year old Nissan pick-up that our 16 year old drives. We've had it for about 10 years. Good truck, reliable, have really gotten our money out of it.

Several weeks ago, our son calls on his way home from work, saying that he has broken down. I go and pick him up, have the truck towed to a garage. The timing belt had broken and we had bent a valve. So we are looking at some $ to fix it.

About this time, the ol' Cash for Clunkers deal started. So, guess what we did!

Guess again.

We fixed it. We drove it home today.

Why? Several reasons. We didn't want or need a new vehicle. We were not going into debt to get a different vehicle. Plus, we don't like idea of another government bailout.

We were able to pay cash and get the truck fixed and have good, reliable transportation cheaper than we could buy a different vehicle.

So, for us, this was the best deal. We paid cash for our clunker (to get fixed). Laugh if you want, but we're still debt free.

Romans 13:8 "Owe no one anything . . . except to love one another"

This Stinks . . . Really!

2009-08-11T21:06:00.002-04:00

This evening Amy and I hopped in the car and drove from the house to church (for VBS), about half a mile. I noticed an odor. Amy had driven the car to and from Chesapeake today, but said she hadn't noticed the odor.

Did you leave your breakfast in the car? No. Did you leave your gym bag in the car? No, went jogging this morning, showered at home. Hmmm.

We got to the church, and opened the trunk. There it was . . . a gallon of milk left in the trunk from Saturday. Exploded!

That really stinks.

From NY to Philly

2009-08-05T08:28:00.002-04:00

Yesterday we finished up in NYC and today we head to Philadelphia. Looking forward to taking in a few of the sights and see the Phillies play tonight. Here are a few observations from yesterday:

We went to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. While it is neat to say we've been there, and know that is where millions were 'welcomed' to the USA, it was a lot of trouble. Herded like cattle onto the ferry boats after waiting in line for over an hour didn't quite 'make' the experience for me.
Took a bus tour of Brooklyn. It in a nice, air-conditioned bus, so that was nice. Saw lots of sights that we've seen on TV many times. Also saw the Brooklyn Tabernacle.
The highlight of the say was walking in and out of the shops at Times Square. Surprisingly, the prices didn't seem any different from the prices at home. In fact, Kendall got a good deal on a pair of shoes.
We ate at Dallas BBQ at Times Square. It was fantastic. Large portions for a little price.
Believe it or not, we went into the Hersey's Store and the M&M's store and didn't buy anything. We didn't want to wait in line and thought the chocolate would melt by the time we got back to the hotel. I saw Reese's peanut butter cups make with dark chocolate for the first time.

Getting ready to check-out and travel to Philly. One of goals is to get a philly cheesesteak.

Family Road Trip

2009-08-04T07:12:00.002-04:00

This week our family has ventured to New York City and later to Philly. We spent yesterday in NYC taking in the city through bus tours. Here are some of my observations:

This place is huge - every building is huge, and it seems that there are people everywhere.
However, seeing so many huge buildings, knowing that they are full of people, I can only imagine what it would look like if everyone came out into the streets at the same time!
According to the tour guides, the cost of housing has skyrocketed in the last 10 years. A place that cost $50,000 15 years ago is now worth over a million. Wow!
I was surprised that your typical fast food is just about the same price at home - a little more - but not outrageous.
However, there are plenty of $$$$$ places to eat.
We ride the bus from NJ into NYC each morning. The money we paid - $19.60 for our family - is worth every penny. I don't like waiting in line to catch the bus leaving the city, but it is well worth it.

Looking forward to more adventures today!

Road Trip

2009-07-31T06:14:00.000-04:00

I'm on a road trip today to Atlanta to see the Braves and Dodgers play. There's a guy in our church that is crazy about the Dodgers, so he invited me to go along. Lots of time on the road over the next two days, but great times and memories.

My son Kaleb is going as well, so we ought to have a great time. We'll be sure to pull hard for the Braves!

Ring Around a Rosie

2009-07-25T13:48:00.000-04:00

“Ring around a rosie, a pocket full of posies.
Ashes, ashes, we all fall down.”

I heard some kids singing that the other day. I looked around and saw them holding hands in a circle – and then flop on the ground after singing the last phrase. Laughing and giggling, their enjoyment was contagious. No video games, no cell phones, no toys, no nothing. Just a nursery rhyme and some friends. Simple.

Remember when life was that simple. It seems that when you get older, life gets more complicated. For me, that particular nursery rhyme got complicated. You see, here’s how I learned it:
“Ring around a rosie, a pocket full of posies.
Red bird, blue bird, we all fall down.”

So, which way is right? If you are like most people, you’re thinking, the way I learned it is right! Why? Because that’s what I was taught. My momma said . . .

When we get older, we find ourselves defending lots of things – more important than nursery rhymes – by saying Because that’s what I was taught. My momma said . . .

As followers of Christ, we need to move from my momma said to that’s what the Bible says. The problem is that most Christians don’t know how the Bible applies to everyday life. How to raise children, how to operate a business, how to be a friend, how to have a great marriage . . .

It is the responsibility of each Christ follower to follow Christ. That means it is our responsibility to know the Bible and to live like we know it.

Jogging

2009-07-24T13:39:00.003-04:00

While we were on vacation, Amy and I went for a jog. Actually, she left first, then a few minutes later, I left. We have jogged off and on for years. For the many years, we had to take turns jogging, so one could watch the kids while the other jogged. We looked forward to the day that we could jog together. Several years ago that day arrived, we jogged together and realized that each of us did better if we didn’t jog together. I digress.

Anyway, the other day Amy and I both jogged 5.4 miles. Amy’s longest run ever, my longest in quite sometime. The next day we ran 2 miles, and then the following we ran 4. In our little three days of jogging, I learned several things:

- Knowing the goal each day made it easier to reach that goal. When we ran 5.4 miles, we were mentally ready to go past the 2 mile and 4 mile marks. On the 2 mile day it would have been tough to switch to 5 miles at the end of the 2 miles.

- Each time we ran, we ran without stopping. I know for me, if Amy hadn’t been jogging, I probably would have walked some. I really didn’t want to be walking and see her jogging. So, her being around helped me keep going.

- Each day we got up early, not real excited about being up or about exercising. But, our best part of the day was the hour after exercising. Cooling down, relaxing. Realizing that we have just done something that was right, good and healthy.

- The toughest part was getting out of bed and out the door.

Our spiritual lives are very similar. It is very easy to get lazy. It is a whole lot easier to get and stay in spiritual shape if we have someone who is our “jogging” partner for our spiritual lives. Most of the time, there is no glamour in the day to day. However, living your life connected to God and others who are connected with God, can change a mundane life into one with purpose and adventure. May you connect with God and each other . . .

Crazy Love

2009-07-08T15:46:00.004-04:00

This Sunday, my Sunday School class begins a journey through Francis Chan's book, Crazy Love. There are several resources available to help us get more out of the book. Go to www.crazylovebook.com to see the videos that go with each chapter. Also, for the month of July, you can download for FREE the audio version of Crazy Love, read by Francis Chan. Click here to get the audio book.

If you don't have the book yet, click here to order one. It's even cheaper now.

I'm excited about our journey.

Founding Fathers

2009-07-04T17:59:00.003-04:00

I like this post from Mark Batterson's blog.

I love history. And I love America! Thought I'd share a little of both as we celebrate Independence Day.

Before I do, let me say a few things. First of all, this isn't meant to be a dissertation. It's a blog. Secondly, I'm not nominating all of our founding fathers for sainthood. Having said that let me say this: there is a lot of revisionist history that totally ignores or distorts the faith of our Founding Fathers. A lot of them were motivated by their faith in Christ.

Here's some back story on some of the fifty-six signers of the Declaration of Independence. Most Americans know next to nothing about these fifty-six heroes who pledged their lives, fortunes and sacred honor to the cause of freedom.

John Witherspoon was an ordained minister and authored several books of sermons, as well as editing America's first family Bible in 1791.

Charles Thomson served as Secretary of Congress and was a Biblical scholar. He helped edit the first American translation of the Greek Septuagint into English.

Charles Carroll, the last of the fifty-six signers to pass away at the age of 95 in 1832, wrote out hisdeclaration of faith at the age of eighty-nine.

On the mercy of my Redeemer I rely for my salvation, and on His merits; not on the works I have done in obedience to His precepts.

Another Founding Father, Benjamin Rush, is considered the "Father of American Medicine." He personally trained three thousand medical students. Dr. Rush also founded "The First Day Society" which was the precursor to the Sunday School movement, as well as founding America's first Bible society. It was Benjamin Rush who said the Constitution was "as much the work of Divine Providence as any of the miracles recorded in the Old and New Testament were the effects of divine power."

Francis Hopkinson was a church music director and edited one of the first hymnals printed in America in 1767. He also set 150 psalms to music.

Roger Sherman is the only Founding Father to sign all four of America's Founding documents: the Articles of Association in 1774, the Declaration of Independence in 1776, the Articles of Confederation in 1778, and the U.S. Constitution in 1787. Roger Sherman was also a theologian. He wrote a personal creed that was adopted by his church:

I believe that there is one only living and true God, existing in three persons, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, the same in substance, equal in power and glory. That the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are a revelation from God, and a complete rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy Him.

I could share story after story, but the bottom line is this: many of our Founding Fathers were motivated by their Faith in Christ. They wrote sermons and creeds and hymns. They founded Bible Societies and Sunday Schools. They served God's purposes in their generation. And I, for one, am grateful.

Hope that adds a spiritual dimension to your 4th of July celebration!

Faith is a Substance

2009-07-02T08:20:00.002-04:00

I like this post on Steven Furtick's blog:

I like the old King James translation of Hebrews 11:1:
Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

Faith is not an abstract theoretical proposition. It’s not wishful thinking. It’s substance. It’s action.

Most of my life I imagined faith as some kind of force field. And the way we talk about faith dematerializes it. By most definitions, faith is synonymous with hope.

The more I study Scripture, the more I detect a sharp distinction between hope and faith. Hope is a desire. Faith is a demonstration. Hope wants it to happen. Faith causes it to happen and acts as if it’s already done.

Faith is not content to want it really, really bad. Faith consults the drawings and gets busy building. Hope is the blueprint. Faith is the contractor.

Some of the things we’re believing God for will never happen in our lives because we stand in hope instead ofwalking in faith.

The Boys Return

2009-06-30T09:03:00.002-04:00

My boys have been away for 11 days, the longest time I haven't been with them. They left with Amy and Katherine to see some family, then went to camp. After camp, they went to Amy's brother's for a few days. I'm looking forward to their return.

While they have been away, we've gotten a little preview for what life may be like after they leave home. Katherine has been my big helper, and we've been able to do a lot of fun things together. I realize that the boys do a lot around the house (chores) that makes life easier. I mowed the yard twice while they were gone, my first two times of the summer. Hopefully, it will be my last two times this year. The benefits of having two teenage boys.

Most of all, I missed being with them, knowing what's been going on in their lives. I look forward to them telling of their adventures.

This Week

2009-06-23T15:25:00.003-04:00

This week our boys have gone to camp for the week. Camp has been one of the summer highlights for our kids since they can remember. Our kids have been going to camp since 1997. Kendall was 4 and Kaleb was 3. Our first camp was a family camp - and our kids have been at camp at least one week a year ever since. For several years, they spent two weeks at camp since I worked at the children's camps.

Since the boys are at camp, I'm home with the girls. It's one of the few times that I've been out-numbered. That's key when it comes to what is being watched on the TV in the living room (that has the DVR).

The cool thing is that Katherine has been my sidekick yesterday and today. We've had a great time together. We went to the Y both days - today at 5:30 am - and then to Muddy's for a mocha (for me) and a Holy Cow (for her). Great times!

New Driver

2009-06-22T15:12:00.000-04:00

Last Thursday, Kaleb finished up the driving part of Driver's Ed around 12:15 pm. By 1:15 he had passed his Driver's Ed exam, had his picture taken and was waiting for his learner's permit to be made.

He proceeded to drive me back to Hertford. Then he drove us out to eat that night. Kinda weird. Even with Kendall driving, it is still my habit to go to the driver's door when going somewhere. I guess it is time to kick the habit for a while. BTW, Kaleb does rather well. My only complaint, sometimes he goes too slow. (I know that will change.)

A Little Fishin'

2009-06-16T21:06:00.004-04:00

The kids and I went fishing this evening at a little pond near our house. We've fished there many times, but with little success. This evening was different.

Katherine had caught two fish, and Kendall one, before I ever got my pole in the water. We ended up catching over twenty fish in a short period of time. We started off catching catfish and finished by catching mostly bream. Katherine caught two rather large catfish, requiring her brothers to help her haul them in. Kendall is now the family expert on getting catfish off the hook.

The weather was perfect. A little overcast with enough breeze to keep the insects away. What an enjoyable evening!

Big Days

2009-06-10T07:30:00.003-04:00

There have been some big days lately for my family and our church.

Our oldest son, Kendall, flew out to Colorado Springs last week for Summer Seminars at the Air Force Academy. He seemed to have had a good time even though it was quite strenuous physically. Most importantly for mom and dad, he made it back.

Our church had a huge Sunday. We made faith (financial) commitments for a new facility. Our pledges exceeded our goals. We also received an initial offering toward that facility. That offering was more than our total offerings during my first year at the church. The phase I kept saying on Sunday was "I can't believe this!" Wow!

Finally, we travel to Durham today for my niece's graduation from high school. I know I sound old, but I remember vividly the day she was born. She is the first of 6 grandchildren to graduate. She begins four straight years of high school graduations for the grand kids. If the kids get through college in four years, my parents could be going to a graduation each year for the next 10 years. Wow.

Thunderstorms

2009-06-05T20:15:00.005-04:00

This evening we had our first thunderstorm of the summer. I know that it is technically not summer, but this evening we had one of those storms.

This evening it reminded me of a snow storm. Not in what we saw, but the effect that it had on us. We were in awe of the weather happening around us. It was a little scary, but beautiful as well. Once the thunder passed, the rain kept coming down, and it seemed peaceful.

We didn't lose power, but we did lose the Directv for a while. So, we watched it rain. I don't know, but it seems that in storms we (at least I) tend to reconnect with nature (God). I think that it is true with the storms of life as well.

I want to live life in awe of God, not having to rely on storms to get my attention. Lord, help me see your wonders in everyday life.

What?

2009-06-03T14:42:00.006-04:00

This year Amy and I have been listening to the Daily Audio Bible podcast each and every day. We're listening through the Bible in a year. I have really enjoyed hearing the Word. Today we started in on Acts and are in the middle of 2 Samuel in the OT.

Sometimes we listen together on the way to the YMCA for our early morning workout, and on days we don't ride together we listen separately.

This morning we were listening on our way home from taking Kendall to the airport and I was excited because we were in the middle of the exploits of David in 2 Samuel. I love the action and adventure. I was just about to share those thoughts with Amy when she said, "I've had a hard time following what's happening in 2 Samuel." What?

I guess that is one of the ways that we are made different. It is why I have to tell her what I'm thinking instead of assuming she knows. Also, I need to remember everyone doesn't think like I do. (However, the world would be a better place . . . )

So, whatever you think of this post, someone else probably has the exact opposite opinion.

A Big Day as Parents

2009-06-02T18:50:00.001-04:00

Wednesday will be a big day for Amy and I as parents. It will be even a bigger day for our son, Kendall.

Kendall will catch a flight in Norfolk, fly to Dallas, and then fly on to Colorado Springs. He will be participating in one of three Summer Seminars at the Air Force Academy.

So, several 'firsts' will be happening for both parents and son over the next several days. First flights on commercial plane, being so far away from home, going to a military camp, being in the mountains (7250 ft. elevation compared to about 3 ft. elevation here), and doing all of this with no one that he knows.

There are two ways (maybe more) to approach this. One way: all of this is new, unknown, and scary. Just try to make it through it. OR another way: all of this is new, unknown, and exciting. It's an adventure and let's see what's out there.

Hopefully Kendall, Amy and I will have the second approach.

BTW, he hasn't signed with the Air Force or anything like that. This is a fancy "look-see" with a lot of adventure involved. He is really interested in engineering and will be taking several seminars while 'out there'.

Tricks

2009-06-02T06:48:00.001-04:00

One of our favorite things to do as a family is to play in the water. We love to swim and go boating on the river. As most people are, I am a creature of habit in that I enjoy doing the same things that I’ve done before.

However, over the last few summers, I have endeavored to learn a few new things to do while being pulled behind a boat in the river. I’ve learned to slalom ski (ski on one), wake board (not very good), and knee board.

Now for each of these, it was a tough deal for me to learn how to get up and stay on top of the water - much less look good doing it. So, this past Memorial Day, I decided that I wanted to learn to do a trick while knee boarding. Tricks usually mean pain for me. But, I was tired of doing the same ’ol thing. I wanted to do a 360 (turn all the way around). So, I’d try - and bust it. Try again, same result. I don't know how many times I tried, but each time I felt like I was getting closer.

Then came the moment of glory. I finally made it. It wasn't pretty, but those in the boat clapped and cheered for me. Here’s the crazy thing. I then proceeded to do the 360 trick seven more times without falling. It seems that once I did it, I then knew how. I finally had to let go because I was worn out.

That reminds me of the following God. Several times we fall, but we need to keep getting back up. That’s what Abraham, Moses, and David did. They weren’t perfect from the get go. Pretty far from it. They just kept getting back up and trying again. Each time they learned a little bit. Made some adjustments, and went at it again.

We need to do the same as we follow Christ. Here’s the cool part - Jesus will help us. We just have to ask. He won’t laugh at you like the folks did watching me bust it on the river. He’s pulling for you. Don’t be content with the same ‘ol. Seek to know Jesus better today than you did yesterday. May we connect people with God . . . and each other.

Reading Queue

2009-05-29T19:56:00.001-04:00

Here are several books that I can't wait to get in to:

Actually, I'm almost done with this one. Great leadership insight for any type of leadership position.Check out Tony's blog.

Be sure to check out the website for this book. We look to do the DVD study in our Sunday School soon!

I think the title speaks for itself, Less Clutter, Less Noise. Can't wait to get into this one. Check out Kem's blog.

Don't Let Me Go

2009-05-29T14:33:00.007-04:00

Just finished reading this book by David Pierce. It's a great story of a dad's journey with his daughter as they grow together through great adventures. They run marathons and climb mountains together.

As a dad of a 10 year old girl, I want to have the kind of relationship that the author has with his daughter. That means doing some strategic planning to have some adventures together. I'm looking forward to it.

Haven't Gone Anywhere

2009-05-28T22:13:00.002-04:00

I know I haven't posted in a while, kinda embarrassing. I've had some busy weeks, but no real excuse. I took me a while to figure out why I haven't had 'time' to post. I usually post in the evenings - and lately I've been spending most evenings outside until past dark.

So . . . since I get up each morning at 4:50 to go to the Y, that means I hit the sack kinda early. Not much free time in the evenings to post.

All that to say . . . I need plan some time to post. Maybe shift it to another part of the day. We'll see. Stay tuned.

Thursday Evening

2009-05-07T21:03:00.003-04:00

This evening, Amy and I took the boat out for the first time this season. In the past, the inaugural boat trip of a season always had some surprise with it - usually not good. However, this year was different. No problems! In fact, it was quite relaxing and beautiful to see the sun setting on the river. Sweet! Now I can't wait to ski!

Mid-Week Reflections

2009-05-06T21:31:00.001-04:00

I can't believe that it is Wednesday already. It seems that this week is moving along fairly fast. Here are some thoughts:

Watching the Carolina Hurricanes right now. The 'Caines just scored two goals in a matter of a minute. Our family has watched a total of about 10 minutes all year and saw the 'Caines score two in the final two minutes in game 7 of the last series.
Our Spring Fest on Sunday at church was incredible. Our volunteers were tremendous! We had tons of guests - out largest crowd ever for anything at Bagley Swamp! We ran out of food - the first time that has ever happened!
The forecast was for 70% chance of rain - we only had a 3 minute shower that cooled things for us :-)
I've had conversations every day this week with folks that are moving forward in their relationship with Jesus! That is awesome!
Our youth group had new teens on Sunday night and today at an after school hang out. Wow!
Excited about Todd (our youth pastor) getting away with other youth pastors tomorrow and Friday in Charlotte!
Yesterday and today we finally got some much needed rain! Enough to wash some of the dirt off of our car - but not hard enough to make it look clean.
Might the Braves win one tonight?
Going to try to get to bed early tonight!

Latest Adventure

2009-05-02T20:47:00.006-04:00

Last night the family and I traveled to see the Carolina Mudcats play in Zebulon, NC (2.5 hour drive). They are the AA affiliate for the Reds. We hadn't been there in years, and the place had really changed. The real reason for going was to surprise a friend for his 40th birthday. Another family joined us and we had a great time together.

The game started late since it had rained, so we left before the game was over to get back home. That's when the real adventure began. We had been on the road for about 30 minutes when I noticed that the interior lights began to dim. That's not good. Then the headlights went out. Then on, then out. We pull over. We're in a van that won't move at 11pm.

We call a tow truck to come get us. Meanwhile, a deputy stops to help. The tow truck shows up and tows us 6 miles back to Rocky Mount. The deputy gives Amy and kids a ride and we drop the van off at Colony Tire and then to the Red Roof Inn.

We get a 'smoking room' since that is all they have left. We check in - the only time I've ever checked into a hotel with no luggage - no nothing.

I get up at 6:45 am and walk to Colony Tire and the manager drives up right when I get there. I tell him of my situation, so he will get the van in as soon as his tech guys come in. A little while later, they diagnose that the alternator needs replacing. I go back to hotel to shower and we're on the road by 10 and home by 12 noon.

Several amazing things:

We broke down near a town instead of the middle of nowhere.
The deputy gave the family a ride. It really would have been a hoot to see everyone in the van on the tow truck.
I slept with my contacts in for the first time in my life and they were not glued to my eyes when I woke up. (I can doze for 10 minutes and they usually stick to my eyes.)
I have sleep apnea and did not have my machine. The family did not hear me snoring or having any apnea episodes. That's amazing.
I had a bunch of stuff to do today - and got home in plenty of time to get it done.
Met several amazing people that I wouldn't met otherwise. Tow truck driver, deputy,manager at Colony Tire, and the lady at Dunkin Donuts.

Don't Let The Bed Bugs Bite . . .

2009-04-27T21:02:00.005-04:00

During the summer, we have these little black flying bugs that appear out of no where and are attracted to any light on in the house. Well, since the temperature has been in the 90s the last few days, these bugs showed up last night in our bed room.

Someone left the light on in the bedroom - so when we got ready to go to bed, there were probably a 100+ bugs flying around the light. In the past, if you turn out the light - the bugs leave.

Well, we turned out the light - and got in the bed. After a few minutes, Amy started swatting. She got up, turned on the light - and our bed spread was covered with these bug! Amy freaked out! Swatting, shaking the bed spread, smacking the bugs and yelling at them.

Being the sensitive, caring and Godly husband that I am - I laid there and laughed my head off. Needless to say . . . Amy was not amused.

The Good Stuff

2009-04-27T08:29:00.006-04:00

The past week has been a blur of activity - but it has been the good stuff!

Friday I joined some church planters and others for dinner on Franklin Street in Chapel Hill. We got to hear great stories of what God is doing in their lives and how He is impacting lives. It was great to spend time on Franklin Street and dreaming of what God can do there. On Saturday morning the group went to Big Ed's for breakfast in Downtown Raleigh, heard some more stories, and walked downtown and did some more dreaming. Great times.

On Saturday evening our church officially entered into a Building Campaign with a Banquet at Montero's in Elizabeth City. It was a great evening of looking to the past - the present - and the future. It is really exciting to remember what God has done in the past and dream of what He wants to do through us now and the impact that what we do now can have on people now and in the future. I still can't believe that God allows us to be involved in changing someone's forever. Wow!

Sunday morning - people encountering God through music and His Word. This is awesome - I told people to pray for the people that God has placed on their hearts to invite to Spring Fest this next week. Ask God for an opportunity to cross paths with them this week. Just got a call from a guy who told me that he 'crossed paths' with one of the folks he prayed for just a few hours after church. Wow! Also, I overhead a little girl (first time at Bagley Swamp) coming from Upstreet (Kids Worship) tell her mom - Can we come back next week?! Yes!

Sunday afternoon we celebrated a group completing Financial Peace University - by Dave Ramsey. Financial freedom is awesome! One of Dave's financial guys was there and talked to the group. Several of the couples talked to him afterwards and one couple found out they are closer to being debt free than they thought! Wow!

Lots of great stuff on 'go' for this week. Headed to my mom & dad's later today for a meeting in High Point tomorrow with couples called into ministry - always exciting. Tomorrow night we have Class 101 - the intro class to christianity and Bagley Swamp Church. It's always fun to share about the vision of the church. This Sunday - Spring Fest. More on that to come!

That's it for now . . .

Big Two Weeks

2009-04-21T21:56:00.004-04:00

I know that I've had some pretty big things during my time of growing up, but I don't remember having two weeks like our son Kendall. In the past two weeks he's had four fairly decent accomplishments - two of which I have never accomplished, one that he surpassed me, and one that he is an amateur compared to me.

First - Kendall got his driver's license. This is where he is an amateur. He does quite well and his brother and sister seem quite excited that 'they' can go somewhere without their parents.

Second - Kendall got his SAT score, which he surpassed me - not too surprising.

Third - He took a class during Spring Break and is now a certified lifeguard, certified to administer CPR and Oxygen and trained in First Aid. I've never done that.

Fourth - Tonight he refereed three soccer games at the local Recreation Department. I've never refereed a real game in my life.

As a parent you always want your kids to do better that you and do some things that you didn't. I just didn't think several would happen in two weeks.

Rough on Ronnie . . .

2009-04-10T09:18:00.003-04:00

Amy and I started going to a spinning class at the YMCA back in the fall, and have been going two or three times since. One of our instructors, Dave, is a UNC graduate, and often comments on the UNC games.

Well, today is the first class that he has taught since UNC won the championship on Monday night. Dave told me that he had some special music for today, and that I would like it.

It just so happened that the only NC State grad in the class, Ronnie, wore a NC State shirt today. The class starts, Dave starts the music (there's always music), and the first song is the Carolina fight song. Every song after that - country, pop, whatever - had Carolina in the lyrics somewhere. It was awesome! Ronnie took it well and acted like he was going to die each time he heard Carolina.

That class is really fun. Not just the exercise, but the people in it, from all walks of life. Truck driver, dentist, doctor, engineer, pastor, writer, nutritionist, secretary . . . a really broad spectrum - and we have fun together.

But today was good for the UNC folks, kind of rough on Ronnie.

New Era . . .

2009-04-09T21:40:00.004-04:00

We have entered a new era around our house. Our oldest now has his driver's license. This is a day that we have looked forward to for a long time. I think the brother and sister are just as excited. Just in time . . . Spring Break started today at the end of school.

And yes . . . we were at the DMV first thing this morning.

I guess it's a good thing we don't have a vehicle that can do a burnout. If we did, I'd be doing the burnouts.

A little payback . . .

2009-04-08T21:51:00.005-04:00

Last night Amy & I had a meeting and Katherine had a soccer game. Our meeting would be getting done about the time Katherine's game started, so we had to figure out how to get her to the game ahead of time without us missing our meeting.

Solution: brothers.

Amy dropped Katherine and the boys at her game ahead of time and then came to our meeting. About half way through our meeting, we got a text message from one of the boys asking us to bring blankets to the game.

After the meeting on the way to the game, we got a phone call from the boys - asking when we would be there because they were freezing. When we showed up, they were waiting to get into the van to warm up.

Finally! The boys now know what Katherine has been doing for years. She has watched them play ball, in both the heat and the cold.

It's about time they got cold watching her. A little payback . . .

Great Sports Weekend . . .

2009-04-07T09:21:00.002-04:00

My boys and I realized last night that this might have been our greatest sports weekend. It started on Sunday when Jeff Gordon won at Texas for the first time and snapped a 47 race win-less streak (the longest of his career).

On Sunday night the Braves played in the first Major League game of the year against the defending World Series Champs - the Phillies. The Braves cranked out three homers in the first two innings and won 4-1.

Last night UNC won the NCAA Championship in a dominating fashion. I've watched Carolina win their last four National Titles, and this is the first one that we've dominated the whole game and wasn't a nail bitter. Wow!

As much as we enjoyed the victories, we know that they are temporary. What do you mean, temporary?

Well, Jeff Gordon has over 20 races left in this season. In a few weeks, that win will be a distant memory. The Braves play again tonight, game 2 of 162 this season. An I've already seen a couple of people talking about next year's college basketball season.

I enjoy sports, but also realize they are temporary. I am more focused on things that are eternal. :)

A Little Clarification . . .

2009-04-07T07:11:00.000-04:00

I talked to a couple of folks yesterday that thought that the new MacBook that I got was the photo that was on this blogpost. That photo was similar to the original Mac that I purchased in 1988. The photo here is of my new Mac. Just FYI. I guess some folks thought that I had gone retro.

Feeling Weird

2009-04-05T22:24:00.002-04:00

This morning at church we had Sunday School and our 11 am Worship Celebration. We didn't have our 8:30 am Worship Celebration since our Voices of Praise had a Easter Presentation. It was a great service and the group did a great job.

I will say this, I felt weird when I got up this morning. I usually get up real early, but I didn't need to today. I woke up anyway. I didn't need to get over to office early, so I stayed around the house - read a little. I felt like I was playing hooky. As odd as it sounds, I really like having two services at church. I tend to be really drained after two services and Sunday School, but I really like it.

So . . . I am really looking forward to this Sunday. Back to two services - and it's Easter!!!!!

Thought This Would Never Happen . . .

2009-04-05T14:57:00.000-04:00

Last week when the boys and I went to the race in Martinsville, we made a couple of pit stops along the way. One of our stops was at a Family Christian Store in Durham.

The boys rolled their eyes when I said I wanted to stop there. We need a break from riding and Kendall needed a break from driving. Plus, I had a gift card. I didn't have any books that I was dying to get - so we looked around. I didn't see much and was ready to go when Kaleb pointed to a couple of books - and one caught my interest - we got it. After my gift card, I had to pay forty-six cents. Not bad.

The book - Beyond Belief by Josh Hamilton. Josh is from the Raleigh area and has gone through a lot. He is now an all-star baseball player for the Texas Rangers. We got to see him play last year when we were in DC.

Yesterday - at some point - both of my sons and myself were reading the book. I'm not talking about reading it out loud. The first one in the living room grabs the book and starts reading. I read the whole book yesterday. Each of the boys are about half-way. I even saw Kendall reading it today while the race was on. I thought this would never happen . . .

Second Mac

2009-03-31T21:21:00.005-04:00

Just got a MacBook. It came by FedEx yesterday. Really excited about it. I know several who are switching from PC to Mac.

I bought my first Mac back in 1988. It didn't even have a hard drive. It just had a floppy drive. That first Mac cost just about the same as this MacBook. Since that first Mac, I've been with PCs. I look forward to all of the new stuff that I will be able to do with this MacBook.

However, I don't think that it will be as 'ground breaking' as that first Mac was for me. In 1988 I was making the switch from owning a typewriter to owning a computer. That was a huge jump.

Father/Sons Trip

2009-03-31T20:34:00.006-04:00

Going to Nascar's Martinsville Race on Sunday was a great time with my boys. It was an overall great experience. Some of the highlights were:

The seats were great - just past the start/finish line. The seats had backs to them - saved our backs.
The weather was fantastic - short sleeves. Even got a little sunburn.
There was a huge video screen in the middle of the infield that gave all the info those watching TV see.
We rented Fan View sets. A handheld video screen that allows you to see video, hear radio, TV and pit crew broadcasts. Really awesome.
We actually got to park fairly close, considering how far away we saw folks parking.
The roar of the engines was incredible! Fox's Crank It Up! does not even come close. Also the smell of rubber, spent fuel and hot dogs can only be experienced at the track. It is a smell that takes me back to going to the races with my grandpa.
The hot dogs at the race track are awesome!

Some of the things we noticed:

A lot of Nascar fans are very loyal to their driver. So much so that the fan will give the 'finger' to any other driver near their driver.
We drank Pepsi and Mountain Dew. For those around us, it seemed that Bud Light was the beverage of choice. Luckily we didn't any spilled on us.
Since it rained Friday and Saturday, the parking lots (fields) were quite muddy and slick. I did more sliding in the mud at Martinsville that I did in the snow in West Virginia.

Most of all, it was a great time to be with my sons. As a dad, I believe that one of my chief responsibilities is to help create memories. This trip is something that we will remember for a lifetime. Looking forward to making more memories.

I Didn't Ask For This

2009-03-28T22:28:00.003-04:00

I wanted to pass on this post from Pastor Steven Furtick

We talk a lot about discovering your purpose.
But most of the time in Scripture, people’s purpose discovered them.
When God places His hand on you to accomplish great things through you, part of you will feel like: “Hey, I didn’t ask for all this!”

If you’re the parent of a strong willed child, a decision maker in a struggling company, or a youth pastor with little budget and no support, no doubt you’ve felt the frustration:“I didn’t ask for this!”

Mary didn’t ask for a full-term teenage pregnancy.
Noah didn’t ask for a 102,000 square foot, 43,000 ton building project upon which the preservation of the human race depended.
Moses didn’t ask for the responsibility of leading a fledgling nation of couple million ingrates through the wilderness.

God doesn’t ask your permission to fulfill His purpose through you.
You don’t get a vote, much less veto power.

You may as well give a gracious acceptance speech, and get on with it…

Weekend Reflections

2009-03-27T16:54:00.003-04:00

It's been a busy week, lots of good stuff happening and lots of good stuff to look forward to for the weekend.

Bagley Swamp will be a host site for Dave Ramsey's Town Hall for Hope on April 23 @ 8pm. This is going to be awesome! Check it out!
Had a great meeting last night with our Building Team, Consultant and an Architect. It was mainly an information gathering meeting, but I think we all walked away Pumped Up!
Headed out tomorrow with my boys to Winston-Salem to my mom & dad's.
It's a Father/Sons weekend. We've always talked about going to a Nascar race, but never had. Being a pastor, I'm usually busy on the weekends. Well, it's time to go. My oldest will be a senior in high school next year, so I don't want time to pass me by. So we are going to the Martinsville Race on Sunday. Really getting excited about it! Hoping that the rain will be leaving. It should.
Pastor Todd is preaching on Sunday. He going to be talking about Taking God's Name Seriously. I don't know if he is pumped up about it, but after we talked today about his message, I'm pumped!
I think that while boys are off, I think the girls are excited about having the house to themselves. I'm sure there less noise and most likely no sports on TV.
UNC plays tonight around 10. After getting up at 4:50 the last four mornings to go to the Y, I'll need to take a nap before the game.
Couple of milestones happening this coming week - one on Tuesday and one on Thursday. I'll let you know as they happen.
Speaking of milestones, Amy and I have been - how do you say it - an 'item' for 23 years now. Last Sunday was the date of our first date 23 years ago. First date: pizza and a movie. It's been awesome, babe!

Just a Toe

2009-03-27T09:27:00.000-04:00

As I write this, March Madness is in full swing -the NCAA college basketball tournament. Every year there is a bunch of hoopla and predictions about who will be crowned the new “champs” after winning every game in the tournament.

This year, my UNC Tar Heels are predicted by some to win the championship. It seems – from previous years – that when they are predicted to win it all, they fall woefully short.

One of the main topics of conversation surrounding the Tar Heels is the condition of a certain big toe. The point guard, Ty Lawson, injured his big toe before the end of the regular season. He missed several games, the team looked very average, and the team lost in the ACC tournament.

So, the question has become – How is Lawson’s toe? And the next question is – Will he be able to play? I’ve been asked this at the YMCA, church, school – practically everywhere I have been. I’ve seen it in the newspaper, on blogs, and have gotten emails and text messages about it.

What does Ty Lawson think of all of this attention? At a news conference, he said, “It’s just a toe.” Wow! I think he realizes that when people look back at the Tar Heels, they are going to remember the team, and not his toe.

It seems in life we can get focused on a lot of things that can take us off track. Our spiritual lives can get high-jacked by a focusing on anything but Jesus. You see, it’s all about Jesus. At Bagley Swamp, we want to make Him famous.

May we connect people with God . . . and each other.

Town Hall for Hope

2009-03-26T16:01:00.003-04:00

Check this out - (Thanks, Chuck!)

The Weekend

2009-03-20T16:02:00.002-04:00

Looking forward to the weekend . . .

Getting ready to head to Olive Garden with the family and some friends. Olive Garden is one of our favorites. Everyone is sure to get full of the food they like.
Going to spend the night on the ocean front in Virginia Beach. We have an ocean front room - cost a little more - but worth it when you don't get to the beach much.
I am running in the 8K (4.97 miles) Shamrock tomorrow. The race starts at 8am. There will be thousands running in it. Pray that I make it and don't get run over. Two guys from the church are running in it, too.
I hope Amy is feeling better. She has been sick since Sunday afternoon. This is the longest I've ever seen her sick in the 23 years I've known her. I also hope that I don't get it.
Going to do a little shopping tomorrow after the race. There's a couple of stores in Va. Beach that I want to check out. (Is it still called shopping if you don't buy anything?)
Tomorrow evening is our annual Wild Game Dinner at the church. A great, relaxing event where you get to swap stories and try all kinds of great food. Can't wait!
Sunday we'll be talking about {There}. Life is a journey, but it is also a destination. We all want to get someplace in life. We want to go from here to there, from where we are to some other, better place. It's a divine desire placed in our hearts by God. Sunday we are going to look at that mysterious longing in each of us to discover the {There} that propels us forward on this road called life. I guess you will have to be {There}.
Time to go!

Monday Evening Thoughts

2009-03-16T21:55:00.002-04:00

Just some thoughts:

Had a great weekend. I really enjoyed the team from City on a Hill Project. They are the real deal and connected well with the folks in Bagley Swamp. We can already see God's fingerprints in their story, I can't wait to see what He is going to do through them in Chapel Hill.
Crazy Saturday. All three kids went in different directions. Kaleb on a youth trip, Katherine to a birthday party, and Kendall took the SAT. At least Kendall will never have to take that thing again.
We had a great turnout for our morning worship services on Sunday, despite the miserable weather. Awesome! Way to go Bagley Swamp!
Headed to Durham in the morning to a pastors meeting. Looking forward to it, but have to leave around 6:30 am. Meeting at the new facilities of www.newhopenc.org. Can't wait.
Took Kaleb to the doctor this afternoon. He has strep. The doctor believes he is no longer contagious. His only complaint is that his throat is a little sore. When I've had strep, I felt horrible.
Started reading Killing Cockroaches by Tony Morgan of NewSpring Church. Great book on leadership.
Time to go to bed. Peace!

The Story Comes to BSWC

2009-03-11T18:26:00.002-04:00

I'm excited about this weekend! Matt LeRoy and Justin Simmons are sharing about the City on a Hill Project, a church plant in Chapel Hill. Can't wait!

Chick-Fil-A

2009-03-11T14:00:00.003-04:00

Found this on Dustin AhKuoi's blog about my favorite fast food by one of my favorite comedians, Tim Hawkins.

Sunday Evening Thoughts

2009-03-08T20:20:00.004-04:00

Some random thoughts this evening:

Glad to see the Tar Heels beat Duke. It seems for the last several years the have split during the regular season. It'd be real nice to beat them again next Sunday:)
Loving the spring-like weather. Took a long 4-wheeler ride this evening. There is something about riding through the woods and fields and enjoying nature that recalibrates me.
Kinda weird though. Last week this time I was at my Mom & Dad's in Winston-Salem and the snow was starting to pile up. Last Monday I even make a snowman. Today, shorts and had to make my daughter put on shoes.
Real excited for my friends at http://www.newhopenc.org/. They are moving to their new campus this Sunday! Check out their new facilities.
My plans are to work on taxes tomorrow. Yeah! Not.
Grilled out and played Corn Hole last night. The best thing about this time of the year with warm weather is . . . no bugs. I have a feeling that they will be out in full force soon.
I need to do some running. I've signed up to run in the 8K on Saturday, March 21. (http://www.shamrockmarathon.com/). I've been going to the Y, taking a cycling class and doing aerobic machines. I just haven't run on the road in quite a while. I should be OK, but need to make sure.
What's the deal with this World Baseball Classic? I don't remember this in years past. Is it new?
Saw where the Netherlands beat the Dominican Republic in that World Baseball Classic yesterday. The DR had 23 Major League players on it (with $83 million in salaries) and the Netherlands had 2 Major League players on it (with $400,000 in salaries). Go figure?
ACC Tournament is the coming weekend. Looking for to it. Too bad it's in Atlanta.
Looking forward to next Sunday! Some great things planned. Stay tuned.
Coffee grinder just broke. Getting a new one is at the top of the "To Do" list for tomorrow.

The Cold

2009-03-03T08:57:00.000-05:00

I’m like a lot of you, I’ve had a cold recently. I’m not talking about a stuffy nose, I’m talking about a clogged-up head. I was taking medicine just so I could get to the point where I had a stuffy nose.

My usual approach to colds and such is to plow on through until I can go any longer. This time, I tried a different approach. When I felt medium sick, I decided to cut back. That doesn’t mean I went and laid in the bed. I just changed my routine. I wasn’t out and about as much. I spent more time reading and doing research.

It reminded me that I need to take time to change the routine every once in a while. I need to set aside some time where I can read, reflect, refocus and recharge. I have known this, but haven’t done it as often as I have needed.

I now know that I need to plan this time, and make it just as much a priority as any other appointment. I have found that I need to be intentional in my life. I will not float along in life and find myself in great physical shape. That is why I must be intentional with my exercise – that’s why I go to the YMCA every morning.

I also have to be intentional in my spiritual life. That is why I set aside time each day to read the Word and to pray. I also need to be intentional about changing my routine so I can read, reflect, refocus and recharge.

When was the last time you spent some time doing that? I know. You’re too busy. You need to make the time, or you may find yourself in bad shape.

You see, you have to make time to make sure you are connecting with God . . . and if you are not well, you will not be able to connect with each other. That’s what true life is all about.

Monday Morning Thoughts

2009-03-02T08:54:00.005-05:00

Sitting in the basement of my Mom & Dad's - here are some thoughts this morning:

I like snow. Growing up in the south, snow represents: a day out of school, playing outside, fun, snow cream, and all things good. Rarely have I had to shovel much snow (except when I lived in KY) because it's gone in a day or two.

My drive to Mom & Dad's yesterday was quite nasty. It rained the whole way. Everything was either brown or grey. However, this morning, everything is white. Snow makes everything beautiful. Reminds me of God's grace.
Going to try to find a sled.

Great worship yesterday @ Bagley Swamp! It was great to see the crowd that gathered to worship - especially as nasty as it was. Awesome!

Planning on working on Mom & Dad's taxes today. Shouldn't be too bad. I think the sledding will be the reward for getting it done, so I should start soon.

Looking forward to this Sunday . . . finishing up the series You Don't Have What It Takes. This series has been fun, but very truthful about where we live. Lots of folks connecting with God in a real way!

Maybe I can sneak Dad's truck out and do some doughnuts. Probably won't happen. He's got a pretty keen eye.

Hoping to get out to Confluence Coffee today. It is a coffee house that is owned and operated by a church. Hope it's open.

It's Easier . . .

2009-02-27T15:01:00.001-05:00

Found this at Revitalize Your Church:

It is easier to fix the blame than to fix the problem.
It is easier to make excuses than to make progress.
It is easier to duck responsibility than to take it.
It is easer to find fault than to appreciate good qualities.
It is easier to daydream than it is to pursue a dream.
It is easier to rock the boat than to row it.
It is easier to worry than to pray.
It is easer to put off a chore than to tackle it.
It is easer to blame society than to improve it.
It is easier to be self-serving than to be self-sacrificing.
It is easier to critique from the stands than to play on the field.
It is easier to spend money than to save it.
It is easier to waste time than to invest it.
It is easier to watch the news than to make it.
It is easier to follow the familiar path than to blaze a new trail.
It is easier to complain than to cheer.
It is easier to condemn than to bless.
It is easier to reprimand than to encourage.
It is easier to argue than to understand.
It is easier to talk than to listen.
It is easier to gossip than to praise.
It is easier to walk by sight than by faith.
It’s easier to ride the wagon than to push it.
It’s easier to be a victim than to be victorious.
It is easier to fail than to succeed.

The rewards of life come with price tags called hard work and commitment. Those to follow the path of least resistance will inherit the wind.

You’ll know when you’re on the right road – because it’s UPHILL all the way!

Rise to the challenge, and in the end, you will find sweet victory.

Weekend Reflections

2009-02-22T20:50:00.002-05:00

Just some random thoughts from this weekend:

Got stuffed at IHOP on Friday night. I got rather embarrassed by my teenage boys (ages 16 & 14). They got all-you-can-eat pancakes and couldn't even eat the first round. Dang!
The ApologetiX concert on Friday was good. They take popular songs and make parodies of them and put Christian lyrics to them. So . . . I got to hear some of my favorite 80s tunes really loud!
Our Angel Food distribution on Saturday morning turned out real good! It was cool to see an 18-wheeler at our Fellowship Hall ready to unload. We were able to help over 300 folks cut their food bill in half. That's awesome!
We went to Norfolk Naval Base for an Eagle Scout Recognition Luncheon for our son, Kaleb. It was pretty cool to meet some pilots and tour some of the aircraft. At the luncheon, we were assign tables, and we were assigned to table 3. When we get to table 3, I recognize that one of the folks sitting there was someone that I should know. It turns out that we were sitting with MC, LaSalle Blanks of WVEC-TV 13 in Norfolk. Also sitting with us was the guest speaker, Major Schweiss from the US Army. She just returned from six months in Bagdad. Lots of great stories around the lunch table.
Probably the most unusual fact learned about LaSalle Blanks is that he plays in a kickball league. Never heard of it. Apparently is pretty big in some places. In fact his team won the 2008 World Adult Kickball Championship in Las Vegas. Who knew?
Great day at church today! Today we focused on the idea that You Can't Please Everyone. Basically, we tend to be people pleasers and think more of what people think than what God thinks. It seems that several wanted God to be bigger and what others think - smaller in their life. Awesome!
Went to Andy's today for lunch after church. New little tradition for us. We've been there the last several weeks. Not real healthy - but awesome in taste! We tend to laugh a lot while we are there. Today was no different.
Getting pumped about the possibilities of new facilities. Our Campaign Team is working hard, we'll begin to see some things before long.
Stinking tired of this cold. I've had it for over week. It's a little better but much. Didn't go to the YMCA at all last week, trying to rest and get over the cold. After prayer time in the morning with the fellas, I'm going to hit the Y hard.
Kaleb starts Driver's Ed this week. Kendall gets his license in a little over a month. Anyone want to contribute to the Spaugh Insurance Fund?
Big week coming up. Lots of things to get done. Lots of funs to do. Can't wait!

Facebook

2009-02-18T21:52:00.003-05:00

Just got started on Facebook. Don't know why I haven't done this before. Already reconnected with High School and College friends. Check it out!

One of them days . . .

2009-02-17T15:15:00.004-05:00

I have not felt well since Sunday evening, some kind of bad head cold thing. Usually I shake these colds, but this one wants to hang on. At times today, I have felt real bad.

But right now, I feel awesome! I just found out that our February order for Angel Food is 435 boxes! That's great, but not the best part. We just got confirmation that Angel Food Ministries will send the food to us - in Bagley Swamp! We are now a direct ship location! We no longer have to go to Portsmouth, VA at 3 am to pick up the food. It will be at our church at 6am! Can you say Awesome!

Also on a high note, just spent an hour or so meeting about our Compassion Ministries. We are looking to start a ministry in our county where we do small home repair and the like. We have done this type of thing when we have gone on mission trips, but it is now time to bring it home. So . . . that's what we are going to do. I'm pumped about the possibilities with this! More news coming soon!

Needless to say, my cold is not any better, but I'm feeling better!

Angel Food

2009-02-16T15:23:00.003-05:00

Just found out that we have close to 400 orders of Angel Food for the February order. Wow! That's a lot of food. This is what amazes me - this is only our fourth month and last month we had around 200 orders. This is awesome! Impacting people with a felt need.

A huge WHOO-HOO! to the Angel Food Team and all of the work that they have been putting in. Be praying for Saturday as the food is picked up - for smoothness in getting the food - and that connections are make for the Kingdom.

Listening

2009-02-14T07:44:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to pass along something that I have found to be benefitical. I have been reading more this year, so I've decided to do something a little different with my time in the Bible. I have been listening to the Daily Audio Bible on podcast each day. I have read through the Bible in a year several times, so this year I am listening my way through the Bible.

Check it out at http://www.dailyaudiobible.com/. I have subscribed to the daily podcast through iTunes, so I automatically get it everyday.

God's Dawg

2009-02-13T10:29:00.003-05:00

Found this at Revitalize Your Church and thought I'd share it with you.

The Newbie

2009-02-13T07:58:00.001-05:00

Back in August 2008, Amy and I joined the YMCA. We have enjoyed our membership and usually go to the Y each weekday morning and workout before work. I usually work out with weights and do a lot of the cardiovascular machines.

In November of 2008 we got real brave and decided to take a spinning (cycling) class. One of the guys that I have gotten to know began taking the class and suggested that we try it. He said that it was hard, but that it would really help us get in shape.

Amy had tried the class earlier at a different Y and said that she felt like she was going to pass out. That wasn’t too encouraging, but I had to try it.

Here are the basics of the class: There is an instructor that leads the class. The class lasts 45 minutes and it involves peddling the whole time on a stationary bicycle, sometimes standing up, sometimes sitting down. The resistance on bike changes according to the instructor’s instructions, making a quite difficult workout.

So, we show up and the instructor has to help us adjust the bikes for our size. Then he gives us a few pointers, and then we start. It’s pretty obvious that we don’t know what we are doing. We’re looking around, trying to follow what everyone else is doing, trying to not look out of place. There are times that we have to sit back in the saddle (seat) when everyone else is still up because it hurts too bad. We endure it, and make it through the class without passing out.

Since that day in November, Amy and I have been regulars in the early morning spinning class. It is usually the same group of people, and we’ve gotten to know each other. In fact, we all know “whose bike is whose” since we tend to go to the same bike each time. We continue stories from the previous class, as well as push each other during the workout. It’s a good group of people.

Well, just a few days ago, a new person came to class that had never been to a spinning class before. He had to be taught how to adjust the bike, how to get on, and all of the basics. He didn’t know when to get out of the saddle, and couldn’t do it for long at all. In fact, several times the instructor seemed to ease up on the work out so the newbie could make it and not pass out. And to top it all off, the newbie had taken a bike of one of the regulars.

So what do you think the response of the regulars was to the newbie? I mean, the newbie cost someone their regular bike, the routine of the class was messed up, the workout was less to make allowance for him. The entire class – encouraged him! One person offered their seat pad (the bike seats are hard!). Those around him offered pointers on technique to make spinning easier. Everyone clapped and congratulated him when the class was over!

As the Body of Christ, we need to “work out” ourselves, but always keeping the eye out for the newbie in the journey of following Christ and encourage. We need to make sure that we are not in our “own little group” and ignore the person who is trying to figure it all out. We all were new once. In fact, we need to be inviting our friends and family to embark on the journey of following Christ. May we connect with God . . . and each other.

3 Great Reads

2009-02-12T16:49:00.002-05:00

As Valentine's Day approaches, I'd like to recommend three excellent books on the Marriage Relationship:

1) Love As A Way of Life Devotional, by Dr. Gary Chapman (author of the Five Love Languages), is a heartwarming spiritual guide for couples. This 90-day journey is a great way for couples to begin the habit of sharing a few moments of spiritual reflection together in a non-threatening way. It shows how to be a loving person -- full of kindness, patience, forgiveness, courtesy, humility, generosity and honesty.

2) Cheryl and Jeff Scruggs tell their amazing story of brokenness and redemption in I Do Again. Their marriage was broken beyond repair. Too much damage had been done. Yet, through spiritual renewal, they found their way back to each other. Conflicted couples ought to read it.

3) For Couples Only: Eye Opening Insights on How the Opposite Sex Thinks by Jeff and Shaunti Feldhahn, is really a two-book combo. The first book is For Men Only and the second is For Women Only. These books give practical, down to earth advice for keeping the spark of love glowing in your relationship! (No wonder they've sold over a million!!)

Back in Bagley Swamp

2009-02-07T16:45:00.000-05:00

We arrived in Bagley Swamp this afternoon just before 3:30. The ride home was rather uneventful, and we make our usual stop at a Chick-fil-a. We never seem to stop at the same one, and it always seems to be an adventure to find one close to the interstate at lunch time.

We are grateful for what God has done in us and through us this past week. We look forward to what God has in store for us as we continue in the Wild Goose Chase. BTW, we conclude that series tomorrow - it's been great! Can't wait!

Friday Night in Richwood

2009-02-06T23:03:00.003-05:00

Today the projects were finished up. The Craigsville crew finished at Frank and Jane's house. They were impacted by and made an impact on Frank and Jane. The crew saw God at work in their conversations and in their physical improvements to their house.

The new door was installed at the Faith UMC church. Now the church is more secure and looks better. The crew was able to talk a lot to Pastor Kelly. Faith UMC is her first church to solo pastor and I believe our crew was a big encouragement to her. She was able to eat lunch with us today at Dairy Queen.

The work at Ms. Helen Sears home was completed today. The plumbing was fixed several days ago, but Edward, Todd and Annie went back today to do some cosmetic work in the bathroom and to talk to her. A lot of her family stopped by while they were there. They left a Bible with her.

After supper at the pantry, some of us went to Wal-Mart in Summersville (4 guys). Eight of us went to the skating rink in Richwood. We were able to have fun and talk with several folks. We weren't able to do an outreach type event like we had hoped since we never got in touch with the owners. We were able to spend time with those running it, and they have a big heart for the kids in Richwood. They told us that the swimming pool will re-open this summer (closed for 5 years). They were excited because it will give the kids and teens something to do and a gathering place. I was very encouraged by what I saw and the conversations that I had.

We have seen God at work in our lives this week. We know that God has used us and has worked in our lives. We look forward to how God will continue to work in our lives as we return to Bagley Swamp tomorrow. We plan to be home by supper.

Thursday Afternoon in Richwood

2009-02-05T13:32:00.002-05:00

Today is still cold. The temp right now is 15. The same crew that went to Craigsville yesterday went back today. Edward, Todd, Craig and William have gone over to Faith UMC to finish installing a new door to the basement. We went over this morning and removed the old door that was damaged by someone who broke into the church.

It seems that we have heard over and over of many places that have been broken into. The skating rink that we went to in a previous trip has "Already broken into - everything stolen" spray painted on the door. We have also heard of how bad the drug problem is here. I don't know if it is just who we are talking to - but it seems pretty bad.

This afternoon the crew in Richwood plans to head to Craigsville to meet up with the crew at Frank's place. We are going to check out what they have been working on. Then we are headed to Summersville and go out to eat. We look forward to this outing together.

We are trying to contact the owner of the skating rink to see if we can get it open for Friday night. If we can, we would like to do some type of event for the teens in the community. Be praying that we will have the opportunity to interact with the community at large though something like this.

Wednesday Evening in Richwood

2009-02-04T21:23:00.003-05:00

Today was cold with the high around 17. It seemed to snow almost all day with the snow about 6 to 8 inches covering the ground. It is still snowing now.

A crew of Lewis, Jeff, Wade, Chris and John went back to Frank’s in Craigsville. They were able to work inside. The moved a gas heater into the new room they were working on. They also installed some new outlets, a new light, and added in a new door to the room. Some great conversations were had with Frank and Jane, and God seems to be working in their lives and in the lives of the crew.

The rest of the crew was at the pantry today. We installed some new fans and did some painting and touching up to make the place look and feel better. Most of the work around the pantry was done by the middle of the afternoon – so some card playing took place.

Just before dark, myself, Todd, Craig, Christy, Edward, Troy and Belinda went sledding. We bought some cheap plastic sledding “disks”. The first place we went was rather steep – we had fun, but some will be sore. We then walked around town trying different places to sled. It was fun to get out together – and I guess it was rather obvious that we were from out of town – we were the only ones out playing in the snow. BTW, only one sledding disk made it back in one piece.

God is doing some great things and we having a blast. In fact, I hear a lot of laughter from down the hall – I’m missing out.

Tuesday Evening In Richwood

2009-02-03T18:06:00.003-05:00

First of all, my friends Matt LeRoy and Justin Simmons are having their initial public Bible study as a church plant in Chapel Hill. They are meeting in a restaurant on Franklin Street. Pray for the City on a Hill Project as they meet at 7pm.

Today we woke to snow falling and pretty scenery. We had to make sure we could get around, so we got a little later start. Lewis, Jeff, Chris, Wade and Troy went to Craigsville to continue on a project started by others at Frank's house. Their work involved installing plywood on the interior of a room connecting the house to a garage. The folks there fed them lunch and they had a great time. They plan to return tomorrow to put on some vinyl siding and some electrical work. Apparently they went on a Wild Goose Chase on their way over, getting lost and turning on roads that seem to take them off road. They finally made it.

Edward, Annie, and Todd went to Ms. Helen Sears (from yesterday) today to install a new sink faucet and finish some installation. They were done by lunch.

The rest of the crowd were around the pantry and town getting to know more folks. After lunch we all (minus the Craigsville crew) went to the Faith UMC parsonage to tear out some flooring in the basement and some light plumbing work. Belinda and Veronica get the MVP award since they hauled most of the flooring down to the street level (up and down 40 steps for each load).

We are all back at the pantry now and enjoying spaghetti for supper. We anticipate a lot of snow by morning. We have seen God working in our lives and in the lives of the folks that we have met. Looking forward to tomorrow.

Monday Evening in Richwood

2009-02-02T18:55:00.003-05:00

Today we got started on some projects. William, Troy, Belinda & Veronica painted the ceiling in three rooms for Water Demptsy here in Richwood. They were finished by noon. Mr. Demptsy had retired from Ford in Ohio, but moved back to his native Richwood to be near family. After lunch they went to help move food and clothing at a nearby church to a different building so the food would not freeze. They were able to finish fairly quick and were the first done for the day.

Edward and I went to Ms. Helen Sears' home, on the hill across from the pantry. Her pipes had burst a while back, and her son-in-law and her fixed where she had water in the house, but had capped the lines to her shower, toilet and sink in her bathroom because there was a significant leak. We ended up having to cut into her bathroom floor since the house was only off the ground about 6 inches under the bathroom. We were able to get water back to her toliet and sink. She said not to worry about the shower since she uses the tub. We insulated the pipes under the house and Ed will go back to replace the sink faucet tomorrow.

The rest of the crew went to work on a church in Burnsville and Pastor Rodney Jamison met them there. We didn't know how far it was away until they went there - 1.5 hours away. They worked on boarding up some windows and installing dead bolt locks(to prevent further break-ins). They also removed the linoleum in the large meeting room and replaced it with some type of carpet squares. The also got some baseboard heating for that room. This crew finished up a little after 6 and hasn't returned yet. Pray for their safe return.

We had snow in Richwood today, enough to get everything white and the back roads a little slick. No snow, but some drizzle in Burnsville. The forecast here suggests that Richwood will get between 6-12 inches of snow between now and Wednesday. We would like to see some, but would still like to be able to do work.

We already have seen God at work. Pray that we will be used by Him.

Sunday Evening In Richwood

2009-02-01T20:01:00.002-05:00

We made it to Richwood around 4:40pm today. We have gotten unloaded, unpacked and settled in. We have even checked on a couple of jobs that we can start on tomorrow. It looks like tomorrow we will be checking on a plumbing project (pipes had frozen), a painting project, and some work over at a church in Burnsville (about 25 minutes away). We will be able to get some work done and also be able to assess what else needs to be done.

It seems that people here are still on hard times. The hospital closed in May, with over 100 people losing their jobs. However, the place next to where we are staying (an old Pizza Hut) is remodeling and going to open in a few weeks, so who knows.

We are safely here, and looking forward to what God has in store for us and the people we meet. As you probably expect, still no mobile phone service for any of us. More tomorrow.

Oh yeah, we are watching the Super Bowl. Taking a half-time break.

It's Ours Now

2009-01-31T11:34:00.006-05:00

We just got our van back from Sweet Signs Designs. The van looks great! Now it doesn't look like all of the others on the road. Just in time for our mission trip to Richwood, WV.

I will be posting to this blog while we are in Richwood (assuming that I have access to a computer.) I will also update some with twitter, which you can follow to the right. If I do not have mobile phone service (haven't in the past), then no twitter.

We look forward to a great trip and are excited about what God is going to do through us and in us.

Christmas Shoes

2009-01-28T16:50:00.004-05:00

My new Toms Shoes arrived today! I had asked for a pair of Toms Shoes for Christmas and received a pair from my wife and kids. As usual, they got me the right size, but they didn't fit. So, we had to get a larger size, so . . . now I've got them on!

Why Toms Shoes? Glad you asked. For every pair of Toms Shoes purchased, a pair of shoes is given to a child in a Third World country that doesn't have a pair of shoes. That's awesome!

Think about this - the Christmas shoes that I received, turned out to be a Christmas present for someone else - that really needed it! Can't beat that!