The life of Carl

Another Essay - Is God's power limited?

2008-06-06T10:23:00.000-07:00

Is God's power limited

God has unlimited power. That’s simply the answer or is it? When we refer to unlimited anything, it would be beyond our brains limit to understand, that's just how we were created! We are limited creatures. For example, who can think about infinity as a number...try and think about it, you're going to blank out. It’s limited so we identify it by using a symbol not a number. So instead of trying to understand God's (The Creator) power or anything else regarding God, try to finish understanding his creations! There are many things that are not understood by humans. Let me demonstrate: Does the whole universe have a limit (boundaries)? Or is it unlimited? If limited, then what is after its end? If it’s unlimited, then where does it go? And many other things, even humans, like what is your soul? In general, understanding the Creator's creations before attempting to understand the Creator Himself will help us but sense we are limited this is going to be a hard thing to grasp.

The philosophers St. Anselm, Gaunilo, and Immanual Kant argued over whether or not God existed. Anselm insisted that God existed because nothing can ever be thought of or created better than God. As God is thought to be the most Supreme Being, the divine creator, an existence of such a being would require that no other being could ever be equal or better.

The German philosopher Immanuel Kant argued with Anselm about an even more specific aspect of his case. Kant said that a person cannot move straight from an idea to something existing. He said that existing is not something that someone can have as property. Kant used money as his illustration: being able to have the idea of money in one’s head is very different from holding a thousand dollars in one’s hand. Gaunilo and Kant were both able to prove that Anselm’s argument in favor of God’s existence was not an acceptable argument. (Philosophy of Religion pages 2-6)

The bible tells us that God cannot do two things, die or sin. If this is to be true then wouldn’t this prove that God’s power is limited? God is said to be omnipotent and to sin is to fall short of a perfect action but if God is a perfect being then wouldn’t he have unlimited power? God’s omnipotence is particularly shown in sharing and having mercy, because in this it is made manifest that God has supreme power, namely that He feely forgives sins. (Philosophy of Religion pages 267)

Faith is defined as, “unquestioning belief that does not require proof or evidence.” Claims of faith cannot be proven; a teacher cannot prove that her student is interested in her class; a parent cannot prove that his child, who attends church regularly with him, believes in his god.

There is no way to prove that God’s power is limited or not because this has to do with what someone believes or has faith in. While interesting and thought provoking, an argument like this will never be able to have a conclusion based on facts. We are limited creatures and feel the need to put limits on such things and grasp such things as time, space, numbers and God. With or without the words of Gaunilo and Kant, faith in and of itself is not something that can be proven and neither is Gods power

An essay from my Philosophy of Western Religion Class

2008-06-06T10:22:00.000-07:00

Hick attempts to convince us that religious belief can be rational (or rationally justified). Do you agree? Is it rational to hold religious beliefs?

This is a very good question but I think that religious beliefs can be justified. I'm going to take a different approach on this and am more then likely going to get challenged but I'm not looking for a challenge nor will I respond to them. I just want people to look at another side for a moment and think outside the box.

We have many believes but put limitations on things so that we can understand them. If fact isn't it the human thing to put limits on things so that we can try to understand something? What if there was something out there that we couldn't fully grasp or understand, how would that go over? Lets take the universe, how big is it really? Where does it start and end? Isn't there always a beginning and an end? What if there was something so big that we couldn't grasp it or even measure it such as space? But by trying to understand space or the universe we put limits on it? For example the number one hundred to write it out it looks like this, 100. Pretty easy, but what about the number infinity? How do you write that number? You can't because its so big that we can only identify it by using a symbol. Why can't we write it out in numerical form? Do we really even fully understand infinity or by saying there is a number that is so be we just put a label on it on go with it. Personally I'm going on faith that such a number exists because I have yet to see it.

If fact what does air look like? I don't know, I can't see air but I know I need it to breath or at least that is what I am told I am breathing. You can't proof to me that air exists because your can't see air, all you can see is the effects of air. So to prove that air exists you have to use the effects that air leaves behind/ So again I am going to go on faith that such a thing really exists because I can't see it. So now my question is about God. We can't see God but if you look around at all we have, the complexity of our cellular make up, the mountains, the sea, animals, all of nature, humans, air, space or even ipods. I think we see the effects of God all around us but because we can't understand who God is we tend to put limitations on Him and that is what we base our religious beliefs on.

If you do not belief in a god or the God then you wouldn't see a reason for justification for religious beliefs. If you do then that is how you make up your beliefs.

I think faith is pretty interesting because I go on faith everyday that I will keep breathing this thing I can't see called air. I also believe in a God who is bigger then the air I breath.

I think religious beliefs are rational. Whats not rational about being kind, loving to all, respectful, honest and trying to follow in the example of Jesus Christ. Is trying to be a good person that bad?

Irrational is defined as not endowed with reason or understanding (2): lacking usual or normal mental clarity or coherence b: not governed by or according to reason.

I am proud to say I also believe in a God whom I can't fully comprehend, I think that's irrational.

Impressive Guitar Skills & Comedy...

2008-06-06T05:51:00.000-07:00

My heart goes out to SCC and their family.

2008-05-22T06:26:00.000-07:00

NASHVILLE, Tennessee (AP) -- The 5-year-old daughter of Grammy-winning Christian music star Steven Curtis Chapman was struck and killed Wednesday by a sport utility vehicle driven by her brother, authorities said.

Steven Curtis Chapman's daughter was fatally struck by a sport utility vehicle driven by her brother Wednesday.

The girl, Maria Sue, was hit in the driveway of the family's home Wednesday afternoon by a Toyota Land Cruiser driven by her teenage brother, said Laura McPherson, a spokeswoman for the Tennessee Highway Patrol.

The brother, whose name and exact age weren't available, apparently did not see the girl, McPherson said. No charges are expected.

"It looks like a tragic accident," she said.

Several family members witnessed the accident, which happened in Williamson County just south of Nashville. The girl died later at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, hospital spokeswoman Laurie Holloway said.

In a statement, Velvet Kelm, a publicist for Chapman, said Maria was the Chapmans' youngest daughter.

Chapman, who is originally from Paducah, Ky., and his wife have promoted international adoption and have three daughters from China, including Maria. They also have three biological children.

The singer's Web site says the couple was persuaded by their oldest daughter to adopt a girl from China. The experience led the family to adopt two more children and create Shaohannah's Hope, a foundation and ministry to financially assist thousands of couples in adoption.

The Chapmans did missionary work at Chinese orphanages in 2006 and 2007, according to the Web site.

"After our first trip to China, my wife and I knew our lives were changing -- our eyes and hearts were opening to how big God really is, and we have wanted to experience more of that," Chapman says on the Web site.

"We've really wondered whether or not we should just go to China and stay there. But I don't think so. I believe God is saying, 'I want you to go, get your heart broken, your eyes opened, and then take this story back to the church in America and around the world."'

The 45-year-old singer also has released a book about being a father titled "Cinderella: The Love of Daddy and his Princess." He has won five Grammy awards and 54 Dove awards from the Gospel Music Association, according to Kelm.

http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/05/22/chapman.daughter.ap/index.html

TobyMac New World - Narnia

2008-05-19T12:10:00.001-07:00

Seattle Times Review on Price Caspian

2008-05-16T06:54:00.000-07:00

"Prince Caspian": "Narnia" sequel is darker and less magical

By Tom Keogh

Movie review

"The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian," with Ben Barnes, William Moseley, Anna Popplewell, Skandar Keynes, Georgie Henley, Sergio Castellitto, Peter Dinklage, Tilda Swinton, the voices of Eddie Izzard and Liam Neeson. Directed by Andrew Adamson, from a screenplay by Adamson, Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, based on the novel by C.S. Lewis. 147 minutes. Rated PG for mild scenes of violence.

"You might find that Narnia is a more savage place than you remember," says an embittered dwarf in "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian." He's speaking to the guilt-ridden Pevensie siblings, accused by Narnians of abandoning the magical kingdom they once ruled 1,300 years before and ...

OK, whoa. Let's do a little catching up.

The Pevensie kids were introduced in 2005's "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe," based on the first of seven fantasy novels written by beloved author C.S. Lewis. The oldest of the children, Peter (William Moseley), led brother Edmund (Skandar Keynes) and sisters Susan (Anna Popplewell) and little Lucy (Georgie Henley) out of endangered, World War II London to a country estate.

There, the refugees discovered a passage to Narnia, a winter-locked world where a battle for control was under way.

Several fights later, the Pevensies grew up to become adult kings and queens of Narnia. Stumbling back into England, they became kids again, returned at the exact moment they'd left.

In "Prince Caspian," our now-restless young heroes, one year later in London, are called back to Narnia, where 13 centuries have passed. They learn that their disappearance all those years ago led to Narnia's fall and capture by a despotic and, oddly, Spanish-medieval warrior race.

From that race emerges young Prince Caspian (Ben Barnes), running from an uncle, Miraz (Sergio Castellitto). Miraz is trying to kill Caspian and steal the throne.

Caspian and the Pevensies gather Narnians — fauns, centaurs, gryphons, sword-wielding mice — from both sides of the conflict in the earlier "Wardrobe." Their numbers are few, but they go after Miraz and his overwhelming forces with everything they've got.

OK, we're caught up.

"Prince Caspian" is crackling fun, all right, but it's also a sequel burdened by the things that usually burden second films in long-term movie franchises. Which means it is mostly a series of battle sequences with scarce moments of character development.

That makes the film the exact opposite of the fuller, more emotionally satisfying "Wardrobe," in which Peter and the other Pevensies learned all about Narnia, formed relationships (there's nothing in "Caspian" like Lucy's beautiful friendship with James McAvoy's Mr. Tumnus, the faun) and came to understand their prophesied role as leaders.

There's no similar learning curve for the characters or audience in "Caspian." And, yet, we have to give the film a break. It is a link in a narrative chain, after all (the next "Narnia" movie is scheduled for 2010), and to get from here to where all this is going requires a little dues-paying.

Which is not to say "Caspian" is a bad movie. Far from it.

Director Andrew Adamson, who also helmed "Wardrobe," clearly relishes a return to Narnia with a different set of rules and tools. There's some fine filmmaking going on here, including fight scenes that somehow conjure up the 1950s-'60s era of widescreen epics like "El Cid" (that aforementioned Spanish influence pays off).

Much of the film has a deliberately prosaic, less-magical look than its predecessor, but that's because Miraz has chased a lot of the original magic away. The enchanted, winter-transitioning-to-spring exterior shots of "Wardrobe" give way to a more ordinary, sylvan environment of dappled light and fallen trees. Adamson makes it all quite handsome, in a downbeat way.

Fans who paid attention to the first movie and/or are familiar with Lewis' books know the "Narnia" series, in part, is about keeping faith when things become less familiar. "Caspian" requires a little of that faith.

Today's Devotion...

2008-05-12T09:31:00.000-07:00

Just a Rabbit's Foot?
Monday, May 12th, 2008

READY: "Pray constantly." -1 Thessalonians 5:17 (HCSB)

SET: When I was playing professional lacrosse, I was the only Christian on my team (as far as I knew). I was outspoken about my faith during my four years of playing, and I felt God had placed me on the team to be a light. As the token Christian player, my teammates selected me to do the team prayer. Usually, if it was a big game, one player or another would come up to me and say something like, "Pray a GOOD one Dan. This is a huge game!" The mentality was that a "good" prayer would lead us to victory; a "bad" prayer would lead to defeat.

For luck, some people believe in carrying a good-luck charm like a rabbit's foot. In the same way, some people think of prayer as their rabbit's foot. Many athletes and coaches believe a quick prayer before a game brings a favorable outcome. But prayer is not a good-luck charm. It's so much more than that—it's a battle.

In Ephesians 6:18-20, Paul uses the word prayer four times after describing the armor of God. Once we have God's equipment, Paul urges us to pray! Not a short, rabbit's-foot type of prayer—a "Let's pray real quick before we compete real long" type of prayer. Instead, Paul challenges us to pray without ceasing. Oswald Chambers says, "Prayer is not an exercise, it is the life." Constant, ongoing, continual, pervasive prayer is tough work. Prayer is digging below the surface, and allowing God to reveal His character to us.

Let me be clear, I believe in prayer before competition. Just make sure your heart is right. Don't just ask God for His hand of blessing, ask Him to reveal Himself to you. Pray that you will know Him better after you compete. Pray that He will shine His light through you on the field. Pray that you will feel His pleasure in you as you play. Pray for protection and safety for everyone. Ask God to show you what it means to win His way.

Let us pray. . .

GO:
1. Is it hard for you to pray before competition? Is it easy? What types of prayers do you pray?
2. Have you ever viewed prayer like a rabbit's foot? When?
3. Should your prayers be focused on victory or on glorifying God? How are they different?
4. How can you develop powerful, intense, purposeful prayer?
5. Give specific ways you can honor the Lord with pre-game prayer.

WORKOUT:
John 14:13
John 16:26
Ephesians 6:18-20

OVERTIME:
"Lord Jesus, I know that I have treated prayer like my own rabbit's foot. Please forgive me. I do not want to make You, the God of the Universe, a good-luck charm. Teach me how to pray without impure motives. Show me how to pray constantly, not just when my head is bowed. May my prayers be sweet to Your ears. Help me to go deeper, Lord, when I seek Your face in prayer. Hear my prayer, hear my shout. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. "

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Dan Britton serves as FCA's Senior Vice President of Ministries at the National Headquarters in Kansas City. He and his wife Dawn reside in Overland Park, Kan., with their three children: Kallie, Abby and Elijah. He still loves playing and coaching lacrosse.

Iron Man

2008-05-05T10:21:00.000-07:00

Well I went and saw Iron Man over the weekend. I went with a friend of mine shown in the photo to your left, Ryan Berger Sr. I thought it was pretty sweet. It had a great story line and was very entertaining. I would just recommend you safe your money and watch it on DVD. This movie had sequel written all over it so I'm going to assume that we will see another one in two years.

Korean Baby Singing, Hey Jude

2008-05-02T18:22:00.000-07:00

News worthy...

2008-05-02T11:59:00.000-07:00

Cops camp out at doughnut shops for Special Olympics

STACEY MULICK; The News Tribune
Local law enforcement officers will be camping out on top of two area Krispy Kreme doughnut shops this weekend to raise money for Special Olympics.
The fundraising efforts began this morning at the South Hill and Tacoma Mall area shops.

Officers from Fircrest Police, Tacoma Police, Steilacoom Department of Public Safety, Fife Police, Lakewood Police, Ruston Police and Pierce County Sheriff’s departments will be on the roof of the Tacoma Krispy Kreme, 4302 Tacoma Mall Blvd., from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. today, Saturday and Sunday.

Puyallup police officers will be at the South Hill doughnut shop, 3610 S. Meridian, today, Saturday and Sunday. They hope to raise $10,000 toward Special Olympics.

Louie Giglio - How Great is our God Parts

2008-05-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

Louie Giglio - How Great is Our God
MUST SEE

Part #1

Part #2

Part #3

Part #4

Part #5

When life hands you lemons do something with them.....

2008-04-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

We have all heard when life hands you lemons make lemonade. Today my view it no quite that. I have just recently encouraged Jesus to bring trials my way but now that I have one I am not really a fan anymore.

Sometimes we all have to do things that are best for us and then sometimes we have to do things to please the church and give an appearance that is above reproach. This isn't always the easiest thing to do because even when we are not in the wrong someone maybe in the wrong that we are near and we get "punished".

Is it right to have to change your setting to please others and make sure things are ok even though your not in the wrong? Or do you believe that sometimes you have to fight for what you believe in even though you may have to sacrifice somethings that you are passionate about?

All are great questions and some of them I am facing but at the end of the day I have to make sure I am right with God and that I am happy about my situation even though the results are not what I want.

I believe that God has great plans for me and is going to use me for glorify His kingdom no matter where I am and because of that I have a lot of praying to do. Its ironique because awhile back I sang this song at church for offering and now I feel a close attachment to that song because of the situation I am in.

Blessings to all of you during your trails. James said consider it PURE JOY" when we are faced with trails. He said that because through these we grow stronger and stronger! I see my trails and can't wait to be through it because it will only make me a better person regardless of what other think. I'm here to please my heavenly Father not man.........

NeedToBreath - Washed by the Water

2008-04-29T10:28:00.001-07:00

Long over due...

2008-04-29T06:19:00.000-07:00

Well it have been awhile. I have now been at Boeing almost 3 months now. I really enjoy it here and still learn new things everyday. What a blessing it has been. I am very happy with life and the way my job is going.

March 31st I started school again. I have 2 quarters left before I get my 2nd associated degree. I am mixed on what I would like to do after I graduate from Pierce College. I know I want to transfer to a 4 year school as well as get a couple certificated along the way, in Youth Ministry and Project Management.

So far school has been going well for me. I've been stressed trying to get adjusted to the work load but I am starting to get a hang of it. I am going to take summer classes as well so that will be fun! I am really enjoying my Religion class because we are talking about arguments on whether God is real or not and I have been encouraged by the conversations we have had. I have even had the opportunity to express my views and beliefs. It has made a couple people uneasy about it but I have also had some good conversations.

Over the passed month or so I had quite a scare with my grandma. She got sick and wasn't doing well but she has turned and done a 180. She is doing a lot better and continues to gain strength and get better. Praise God!

My mom went in for gull bladder surgery 2 weeks ago and ended up back in the hospital 3 days later and went through 4 more minor surgeries over a week and a half period. She is doing a lot better and got out of the hospital this weekend. So family life has been a little crazy.

I am doin well, busy and still active with youth group. God is testing me in many ways so this is exciting to see what comes of these trials. Life is good and I'm happy. Softball is starting up soon and I am really looking forward to that.

April 24th three years ago my Dad passed away. That day I took some time to myself and spent some good time in prayer. I enjoyed the memories and will always cherish them. I see more of my Dad in me as I get older. Hopefully I wont go as bald or get red hair but his personality and humor are something I gladly take on. I know your looking down on me Dad and watching over me. I miss you and love you!

Blessings.....

Something to brighten your day...

2008-04-15T06:07:00.000-07:00

Hu's on First - George Bush (Funny)

Funny Kissing Test

2008-02-28T21:45:00.000-08:00

Michael Jackson 25th Anniversary of Thriller

2008-02-14T18:25:00.000-08:00

My gift to myself on V-Day was Thriller. My favorite artist of all times is still doing it. This has some new stuff on it and sounds amazing as always.

A little update on life... I started my new job at Boeing and so far it is very interesting. I enjoy the people I work with and I think within about 90 days I will feel comfortable about what I am doing. I learn lots of new stuff everyday. Its a wonderful experience. Its tough though because I came from a place where I was useful and people came to me for answers here its like I'm lost because there is so much to learn it feels like I will never learn. I do get excited though when I do something productive because then I feel like I have purpose. I hate feeling useless and hope that changes soon.

Other then that life is good and things are going well. I hope everyone is doing something that enjoy today and if you get a chance watch Michael Jackson perform Thriller live!! The recording is from 1987!!!

Favorite Superbowl Commercials

2008-02-04T08:25:00.000-08:00

Dec. 31st a Day to remember.

2008-02-03T11:48:00.000-08:00

A day of great value

So I finally did it. On Dec. 31st I went to Niagara Falls both on the US and Canadian side. 1) I finally went to Canada and 2) I got rid of my tongue ring. I had it for over 7 years and finally parted ways with it. It was tough because I really liked having it but at the same time I need to grow up and take it out. My buddy Pete drove me there and shot the video footage for me.

December in a nut shell

2008-02-03T11:11:00.002-08:00

Wow I can't believe how long its been since I have updated everyone on my life. What can I say, I get lazy around the holidays. December was a great month. I started it off by taking a business trip down to Cali for the American Volleyball Coach Association. I was there for a convention where I set up the Sterling booth and showed off my balls but whats new there. While there I got to stay with some friends of mine, The Lepp's. It was so much fun because I hadn't seen them in awhile and there girls had grown up so much. It was a blessing and a great time.

Part 2

Once I got back from Cali we had our Sterling Christmas party and Chop Sticks Dueling Piano Bar in Tacoma. It was a great time.

PART 3 CHRISTMAS WITH MY FAMILY

Christmas was a usually on Christmas eve Mat, my mom and I went out to eat. This year we went to a different place. It was fun. We gave my mom her car for Christmas and she loved it and then didn't like it and I think now likes it. You never know with her.

We all had a blessed Christmas. I was lucky and got to spend it with those who loved me and I got GH3 so that was my highlight.

On Christmas night I flew out to Buffalo for a Business trip slash vacation to visit my friends the Proziks and there family. Buffalo is a great place and I loved my time there. I got to experience the worlds greatest pizza and wings. The wings I can do without for a while because I got the Chillian death bug. It only lasted 24 hours but I was hurting and just sick. Of course I'm an idiot and don't know how to stay down when I am sick so that didn't help at all.

The funny of the day....

2008-01-15T10:42:00.000-08:00

Check out the link below. I thought it was cute and funny and don't worry I have plenty of updates coming. I have been lazy but busy too.

http://www.hrtwrk.com/video/gooddoctor.mov

A Weekend of Christmas Parties

2007-12-10T11:26:00.000-08:00

Friday night we had the Sterling Christmas party at Chopsticks in Tacoma. It was pretty fun. Everyone had a great time and no one was killed. It was a blast seeing everyone have a good time enjoying each others company.

Then on Sunday I had a CCBC Youth Staff Christmas Party. It was AMAZING!! We had dinner at the Lillards house and man oh man that man can BBQ. It was amazing. They are the nicest people and always take care of us. It was truly a blessing. We all had a wonderful time, then had to leave to our Youth Association Meeting Christmas party. That was fun we all had a great time playing games, singing songs and then listening to a short message.

My weekend was packed full of Christmas. It was a great time! I have attached a couple pictures to show you the great time....

Dooms Day....

2007-11-26T11:00:00.000-08:00

I guess an update is past due. So last week I went to the dentist and found out I need to get a tooth pulled. Well today is that day, and I call it Dooms Day. So that is happening in about 3 hours. I am not really excited at all, terrified fits a lot better.

So last Tuesday I was playing basketball with the youth kids at youth group and my pride got in the way. The team I was on was loosing and so I went up for a dunk and when I came down I landed wrong and ended up hurting my ankle real good. It will take about 6 weeks to recover from so lesson learned don't let pride get in your way of things because it really hurts.

Pray today that the dentist doesn't kill me.

Blessings...

The Dentist

2007-11-19T21:10:00.000-08:00

Bad news but still a blessing in there somewhere

So I woke up last night in a lot of pain and what do you know, IT'S MY TOOTH AND IT HURTS A LOT AND MY GUM IS SWOLLEN AND HURTS A LOT. I ended up going to the dentist today and I was told my tooth is dead and that I have to get it pulled. CRAP!!! Because now I will be missing a tooth until I get it replaced which isn't cheap. I am not really a happy time for me. I just want the pain to go away and enjoy my last week with my tooth. I have named it sparky. Sparky and I will enjoy out last Thanksgiving together.

We have had 27 years of great memories. I remember when I first ate sushi with Sparky and when I had my first shot of hot sauce. Sparky will be missed. Monday November 26th Sparky will be put down.

I know its early but I couldn't resist...

2007-11-14T07:52:00.000-08:00

Rob Bell Tour

2007-11-12T09:23:00.001-08:00

I went to this last night with some friends and I enjoyed it for the most part. I didn't like how he was very surface level when speaking about scripture. He didn't reference any scripture and it almost seemed like he didn't want to say anything that would offend any of the Christians that were there. He had many good points and over all it was a good time. If you have a chance to listen to him speak or read one of his books I would recommend reading them and let me know what you think when you do.

Blessings....

Tuesday Night Small Group

2007-11-12T07:56:00.001-08:00

YOUTH GROUP - JUNIOR HIGH SMALL GROUP

Top Left to Right: Alex, Brandon, Troy, Blaine, Carl
Bottom Left to Right: Gregory, Jordan, Collin (missing Eddie)

This is my small group. We meet Tuesday nights at youth group for about an hour. We are only missing one student from the group but these are the best group of guys. They have some good energy and are ready to learn. I owe them all lunch so I am going to have to pay my debt to them here soon. It's very exciting working with them and getting to know them. They have already grown a lot since Sept. 11th and I am excited to see where God take them.

We are currently going through our second book. It is called Connecting Your Hearts to Others’. Its by Doug Fields and his crew at Simply Youth Ministry. This book is a fresh and powerful ways to draw your students closer to each other—and to God. This volume of the Life Together series focuses on the essence of fellowship, a value that is universally endorsed yet infrequently—or insufficiently—put into practice. There are six sessions in this book series and focus on leading you to opening of your heart to God in ways you never knew possible.

I am hoping that this book will open up the students and challenge them in their walk with Christ. I am going to challenge them in many ways over the next 4 weeks and hopefully shake the ground they walk on to see how they react as a way to make sure we are connecting with God. Hopefully this book will prepare them for some type of service opportunity.

I am excited to see where God is going to take this group. I am blessed to have them opportunity to serve with them and I hope that God will bless them over the next school year.

The Adventures of Jungle Boy 2 - The Hunt

2007-11-10T19:39:00.001-08:00

Jungle Boy & His Wild Animals

2007-11-09T07:24:00.000-08:00

Yes this is my brother!

Some music I enjoy listening to...

2007-11-07T14:36:00.000-08:00

Hyper Static Union Live in Concert

2007-11-07T14:31:00.000-08:00

Most ridiculous British law:

2007-11-07T11:55:00.000-08:00

Respondents were given a shortlist and asked to vote.

Most ridiculous British law:

1. It is illegal to die in the Houses of Parliament (27 percent)

2. It is an act of treason to place a postage stamp bearing the British monarch upside-down (seven percent)

3. In Liverpool, it is illegal for a woman to be topless except as a clerk in a tropical fish store (six percent)

4. Mince pies cannot be eaten on Christmas Day (five percent)

5. In Scotland, if someone knocks on your door and requires the use of your toilet, you must let them enter (four percent)

6. A pregnant woman can legally relieve herself anywhere she wants, including in a policeman's helmet (four percent)

7. The head of any dead whale found on the British coast automatically becomes the property of the king, and the tail of the queen (3.5 percent)

8. It is illegal to avoid telling the tax man anything you do not want him to know, but legal not to tell him information you do not mind him knowing (three percent)

9. It is illegal to enter the Houses of Parliament in a suit of armour (three percent)

10. In the city of York it is legal to murder a Scotsman within the ancient city walls, but only if he is carrying a bow and arrow (two percent)

Pre-Halloween pt. 1

2007-11-01T07:50:00.000-07:00

It all started on Sunday 10/28/07...

I show up at the Prozik house and eat some good food and then off to the pumpkin carving we go! Pete and I started off on the large pumpkins cleaning them and what not then had some great help from Kaylee and Savannah.
We tried to keep all the pumpkin seeds in the center tray so that we could cook them up later!

When you put to people together that like to goof off you get messes at times and well Kaylee just happen to enjoy what we were doing. It might not look yummy but it was. Ask Savannah she would stick her spoon in the pumpkin and then lick it!

Pete carved out an amazing princess and castle. Trish carved a "not so spooky" ghost face and I carved out a spooky tree. Both Kaylee and Savannah had awesome pumpkins they had triangle eye's and bats for mouths!! It was a great time over all. Once we were done we took pumpkins out side to light up and show off our great talent. We got caught up in the moment and that is how I lost my head.

If you see it wondering around on Halloween night make sure to give me a call so I can come pick it up!

Have a safe and spooky Halloween..

The Storm...

2007-10-22T10:33:00.000-07:00

THE STORM - IN THE EYE'S OF ME.....DUH!!

Last Thursday 10/18, we had a nice wind storm that knocked over some tree's and we even lost power! This is the tree that fell in my yard. As you can see it knocked over part of my fence.

Here is a picture of the same tree looking from the base. It was long tall enough to fall through my whole front yard and hit the power line and take out my front fence.

Here is a picture of the little front fence it took out. The tree was in the road but got moved.

This is a picture from the road looking back to show you how far it fell. It was pretty neat but not fun to clean up. Thank goodness we are renting and the land lord and to fix everything.

Repenting is a good thing...

2007-10-21T18:40:00.000-07:00

Today at church I taught second hour and I think I got more out of the lesson then they did. I must say I am a fool. Is it healthy for a Christian to be at a stand still in his or her walk? This is my opinion, I think its ok for a certain period of time but if we are not continually learning and growing then we are more siceptible to being attacked by the evil one. I have been at the place for awhile now. I have been at a stand still and have made excuess for my actions to where I didn't realize until today that my relationship with God sucks right now and its all because I thought my relationship was great even though I haven't been attempting to grow.

My prayer time has sucked and my time readying the bible has sucked. I have been going through the motions and doing it quickly. Have you ever read 3 verses of the bible to say you have been in the bible on a regular basis. As embarassed as I am to admit it that has been me. I have been going through the motions lately and it upsets me. I feel like I have failed myself and God and cheated those who I minister with.

I will say the past couple days have been better. This morning I got up early and took my aunt to the airport but I got to read my bible before hand. Prayer is good also today. So I have started up a hill that I am going to struggle with because of the comfort zone I have created and justified.

I encourage everyone to take a look at their life and see where they are and how things are going. I suprised myself the last week and found out I am not happy with who I am right now and I have repented. So change will occur and it will be for the better.

Blessings to you all. Sorry its been a while. I have been in a rut but I am back!

Change is Good.......

2007-10-20T23:36:00.000-07:00

My personal goal right now is to read 3 books before Jan. They are all books that will help me be a better person as well as a better Christian. In Developing Leaders right now we are going over a book. I have read the book like I am supposed to but I really haven't been into it. I haven't put in the effort that the group deserves. So I am going to try and be real with them rather then put on a face. Maybe that will help with my attitude.

Lately a couple friends have made a comment about me being moody. I don't like the person I have become. Life is at a stand still for me and I need to make some changes and stop being the person that says I'm going to wait for God. I haven't been meeting Him half way. I have been sitting back letting Him do all the work. It has been slowly affecting me to where it now has grabbed my attention. Things need to change to starting tomorrow I am going to wake up early and start reading my bible and get some good prayer time in before work. Those of you who know me uderstand I am not a morning person and hate getting up early so this is going to be a stretch for me and I think it will do me some good. If you can pray for me on this I would appreciate it.

Change is good so hopefully people will notice a different about me.

Blessings......

A Much needed update on life

2007-10-19T18:13:00.000-07:00

September 8th - I had a birthday party! It was amazing! Pete & Trish Prozik planned a birthday party for me and a bunch of friends and family showed up and together we had a BB@Q and celebrated my 27th birthday. What's crazy about this is that I have been in youth minister for 6+ years now. I have been a Christian 8+ years and have been at my job now 5+ years.

I think this is the year of change for me.God is going to have some pretty cool things ahead for me. Ok back to me, the party was awesome I had the biggest ice cream cookie sandwich cake I have ever seen. It was AMAZING!!! I loved it.

Also for my birthday my wonderful friends the Iversons had me over for dinner and as usually it was a blessing to hang out with them. They are truely amazing people who really know how to make you feel special!

September 29th - I went to Ohio for 36 hours. I went and presented an over view of Sterling Athletics to the OHSAA (Ohio High School Athletic Association). We are in a bid to become their official state Soccer ball. I hope we land the deal because that will really help launch our soccer division to the next level and help with sales with the team dealers in that area.

I think that catches you all up on events.

As for me personally, life has been a pretty neat journey. I wish I could say that I have been a super person but my attitude stinks latly. God is working on me and has been really working on my heart in different area's of my life but I have not submitted to Him. I know I need to but I have been fighting because I'm not ready yet. Gordie has recommend our congregation ready a book titled, "Its not about me" by Max Lucado. I have owned this book for 2 or 3 years and have not read it yet. I think I am going to try and read it as well as a couple other books.

Thats about it for now.

Blessings...........

Day 2

2007-08-14T22:46:00.000-07:00

So today we got up and all had breakfast together and went and then went to the pool for a couple hours. It was actually a blast and had a really good time. After we got back from the pool we all just hungout at the house and had lunch. Once we all gathered out strength we went our seperate ways, some went and played 18 holes and others went to the outlet malls.

YES I went shopping and hit up nike and other stores. The girls wanted to go to this beauty supply store so Dan and I went in there and ended up buying dye for our hair and so Dan and I now have orange hair and have to go get it done correctly tomorrow at a salon. It looks crazy.

After dinner we suprised Lindz with a cake and some decorations. Tonight is our last night together and we are all sad that our time together is over but wiill always remember this week or 4 days for others.

PARTY TIME (in a Christian way)

Blessings.......

Extreme funny

2007-08-14T21:08:00.001-07:00

I saw this and almost pee'd my pants. I hope you enjoy as much as me!

Day 1

2007-08-13T20:48:00.000-07:00

So today was a great day. I woke up around 8:30 then came down stairs and made coffee then checked my work email. After that we went and played tennis. That was a blast because we couldn't really play but we had fun. It was about 90 degree's here today. So we decided to go down the river and we all got burnt!!!!!! It was supposed to be an hour float but it ended up being about a 3 hour float and lets just say I look like Mr. Crabs. I am very red and not feeling the greatest.

It was a blast though. Tonight I BBQ the ribs and they came out wonderful. I was very excited because everyone complimented me on them (Thank you Mr. Lillard for teaching me the ways). So far it has been a great time just having fun relaxing and enjoying everyones company.

Blessings.....

Its been a while!

2007-08-12T20:55:00.000-07:00

Vacation! After 8 years of using my vacation to minister, I have finally taken a vacation. It was a long week leading up to today. I helped with VBS and it was a blast. I had a great time hanging out with the children of CCBC and our community but today I am kicking back in Sunriver Oregon. Ya me!

Blessings........

South Carolina...

2007-07-22T19:59:00.000-07:00

Well Rob and I got in on Friday night and it has been a long couple of days. We have had time to relax and socialize with our friends the Renners. They have been so gracious to let Rob and I stay with them for the week. It has been fun. They have a new puppy and she is a biter. We have cleaned up pee and poop. It was funny because last night we were all watching TV and Gracie, the new puppy, went into the dinning room and pooped. I laughed my butt off and then cleaned up.

Tomorrow morning is the first day of soccer camp. I think we are ready. I am really stoked about it. We have two helpers so it should be fun. We have 95 total kids in two sessions. Pray that things go well for us.

Blessings.......

Update on life...

2007-07-17T21:54:00.000-07:00

So I leave this Friday to South Carolina for a week. My good friend Rob and I are running a soccer camp there. I have truly been blessed with this opportunity. I have been putting in a lot of work to get everything done and still have more to do in a short period of time. We are also offering a glow in the dark soccer night for the kids to come and play games and have a blast! It should be a good time for them all. Please pray for Rob and I as we prepare for this wonderful opportunity to minister to Gods little children.

I will keep everyone posted as camp starts.

Blessings.....

The stand - Hillsong United

2007-07-17T08:00:00.001-07:00

This song really speaks to me right now in my life. I hope that it can bless you as it blessed me!

Thousand Foot Krutch - Rawkfist

2007-07-06T10:13:00.001-07:00

Camp Tapawingo June 24-29

2007-07-06T08:54:00.000-07:00

On June 22nd I drove down to Vancouver to visit some friends before heading to camp for a week. As usually we all had a great time and I even got a gift from Germany. A friend of mine when and picked me up something!

This year the weather was a little poopy but we all still made the best of it. It was really cool to see all the campers and how much they have changed from the last year. They have all grown up, it makes me feel old. lol

I was amazed at how much I was challenged by the students this year. They were a hyper group of kids but also willing to listen and open up. It was a blessing to be able to go down to camp and minister with these kids and other staff. This year I am only doing one week but it was a week I will cherish.

Blessings..............

Tranformers trailer 3 ( alta qualidade )

2007-07-05T08:53:00.001-07:00

This is only the greatest movie ever! I encourage you all to go see it ASAP

Give you Glory by Jeremy Camp

2007-06-22T10:41:00.001-07:00

Great song!

Prayer Request

2007-06-22T08:01:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone, this is a special blog today. My friend Gaylen and Karen Mulloy are in need of some prayer. Karen is having twins but there have been some speed bumps along the way. They went in and had some tests run and their doctor called and had a test result from the other day that wasn't good. Something about protein levels too high which is a sign of pre-eclampsia, which is not good news. Karen may have to stay in the hospital until she delivers the babies. Pray that everything goes well and that Karen and the babies stay healthy and safe and that if she has to deliver early God will watch over them and give them strength to grow!

Please pass this along to everyone and pray for my good friends.

Blessings to you......

A horror movie come to life

2007-06-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

http://www.thenewstribune.com/front/topphoto/story/91460.html

Three Fircrest families receive death threats via cell phone. Even when the phones are off. Even when they get new phones.

SEAN ROBINSON; The News Tribune Published: June 20th, 2007 06:15 AM

Enlarge image Alison Yin/The News Tribune Heather Kuykendall and her daughter, Courtney, 16, display the cell phones they’ve abandoned in an attempt to cut off a stream of threatening messages from mysterious harassers. Courtney started receiving the calls in February. Other families have gotten them, too. Investigators suspect it’s an elaborate hoax.

Maybe it’s just a long-running prank, but the reign of terror endured by three Fircrest families buries the needle on the creepy meter.
For four months, the Kuykendalls, the Prices and the McKays say, they’ve been harassed and threatened by mysterious cell phone stalkers who track their every move and occasionally lurk by their homes late at night, screaming and banging on walls.

Police can’t seem to stop them. The late-night visitors vanish before officers arrive. The families say investigators have a hard time believing the stalkers can control cell phones without touching them and suspect an elaborate hoax. Complaints to their phone companies do no good – the families say they’ve been told what the stalkers are doing is impossible.

It doesn’t feel impossible to Heather Kuykendall and her sister, Darci Price, who’ve saved and recorded scores of threatening voice mails, uttered in throaty, juvenile rasps stolen from bad horror films.

Price and Kuykendall have given the callers a name: “Restricted.” That’s the word that shows up on their caller ID windows: on the land lines at home, and on every one of their cell phones.

Their messages, left at all hours, threaten death – to the families, their children and their pets.

“They tell us that they see us,” Kuykendall said Tuesday. “They tell us that they know everything we’re doing.”

It’s gotten so bad the sisters’ parents have offered a $1,000 reward to anyone who identifies the culprits.

The stalkers know what the family is eating, when adults leave the house, when they go to baseball games. They know the color of shirt Courtney Kuykendall, 16, is wearing. When Heather Kuykendall recently installed a new lock on the door of the house, she got a voice mail. During an interview with The News Tribune on Tuesday, she played the recording.

The stalkers taunted her, telling her they knew the code. In another message, they threatened shootings at the schools Kuykendall’s children attend.

“I’m warning you,” one guttural message says. “Don’t send them to school. If you do, say goodbye.”

Somehow, the callers have gained control of the family cell phones, Price and Kuykendall say. Messages received by the sisters include snatches of conversation overheard on cell-phone mikes, replayed and transmitted via voice mail. Phone records show many of the messages coming from Courtney’s phone, even when she’s not using it – even when it’s turned off.

Price and Kuykendall say the stalkers knew when they visited Fircrest police and sent a voice-mail message that included a portion of their conversation with a detective.

The harassment seems to center on Courtney, but it extends to her parents, her aunt Darcy and Courtney’s friends, including Taylor McKay, who lives across the street in Fircrest. Her mother, Andrea McKay, has received messages similar to those left at the Kuykendall household and cell phone bills approaching $1,000 for one month. She described one recent call: She was slicing limes in the kitchen. The stalkers left a message, saying they preferred lemons.

“Taylor and Courtney seem to be the hub of the harassment, and different people have branched off from there,” Andrea McKay said. “I don’t know how they’re doing it. They were able to get Taylor’s phone number through Courtney’s phone, and every contact was exposed.”

McKay, a teacher in the Peninsula School District, said she and Taylor recently explained the threats to the principal at Gig Harbor High School, which Taylor attends. A Gig Harbor police officer sat in on the conversation, she said.

While the four people talked, Taylor’s and Andrea’s phones, which were switched off, sat on a table. While mother and daughter spoke, Taylor’s phone switched on and sent a text message to her mother’s phone, Andrea said.

The Kuykendalls and Prices report similar experiences. Richard Price, Darcy’s husband, is a 26-year military officer, assigned to McChord Air Force Base. On a recent trip to the base, the stalkers sent him a message.

“McChord needs us,” the voice said.

Mari Manley, 16, one of Courtney’s close friends, is another victim of the harassment. She tried to avoid the calls by ignoring her phone. Late one night, she heard the phone making an unfamiliar noise. Her ringtone had changed.

“Answer your phone,” a guttural voice said. Manley saved the ringtone, and played it during an interview Tuesday.

The families and their friends have adopted a new routine: They block the cameras on their phones with tape. They take out the batteries to stop the calls. The Prices and Kuykendalls returned all their corrupted phones to their wireless company and replaced them with new ones. The threatening messages kept coming.

Fircrest Police Chief John Cheesman is familiar with the case and knows the families. His department is working the case with the Tacoma Police Department and the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, he said. The agencies filed a search warrant for the phone records, but they didn’t reveal much. Many of the calls and text messages trace back to Courtney’s phone, which the family believes has been electronically hijacked.

Cell phone technology allows remote monitoring of calls, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce. Known as a “roving bug,” it works whether a phone is on or off. FBI agents tracking organized crime have used it to monitor meetings among mobsters. Global positioning systems, installed in many cell phones, also make it possible to pinpoint a phone’s location within a few feet.

According to James M. Atkinson, a Massachusetts-based expert in counterintelligence who has advised the U.S. Congress on security issues, it’s not that hard to take remote control of a wireless phone. “You do not have to have a strong technical background for someone to do this,” he said Tuesday. “They probably have a technically gifted kid who probably is in their neighborhood.”

Courtney Kuykendall says she has no idea who the stalkers are, though she knows police are suspicious. She believes someone followed her at school – a man in a hooded sweatshirt with a beard.

“They’re accusing my daughter of threatening her own family,” Heather Kuykendall said.

“Why would I do that?” Courtney said. “Why would I do that to people I care about? Why would I harass my own family?”

Day 4 in vegas, the night before I leave

2007-06-13T22:17:00.000-07:00

What a day! We woke up on time, well it was actually early. This morning when we were at starbucks getting ready to order his drinks a lady from England dropped her drink on the floor and spilled it everywhere. I didn't laugh but I really wanted to. I felt bad but at the same time it was hilarious.

Today at the show was dead. I went to a couple different booths and visited people. I ended up at one booth and played snake ball with a guy. He was the inventor of the game and my grandpa bought one of the original ones from Yuma AZ. So it was pretty cool to play with the owners of this game. I beat one but lost to another. They have this rule that if you bounce the ball of the ground and it wraps around a pole you get 5 points. It was pretty cool. I also got to meet with some people from one of our factories. It was really nice getting to know them. Paul Yang and Rita Chein.

Also today we went to this party bar place and had a blast. Bobby, Lances brother in law came down to visit and ride with Lance through California and up to Washington. We had a pretty good time then after that Lance and I walked around in the Venician and had a small dinner there. We then decided that we would walk to the stratosphere. Bad idea, I was in sandals and it was about 3 miles away but only looked about 1. We ended up not making it and had to make a mild emergency "bathroom" stop at the Riviera.

Then we walked back and stopped in at the Frontier, I think that was the name, and had a beer and just chatted a little about work then headed back to see how bobby was doing. One of my highlights today was just getting to relax and laugh. I am really excited to come home because I'm tired of Vegas. Its a nice place to come to a visit for a weekend but not a week. I'm not a fan of a lot of the stuff that is going on here. I think at times I am a little to serious about things. I have noticed that over the past few years my goofy side has slowly gone away. I like to be crazy and have a good time but I'm growing up and become business oriented, I think. I am not sure what it is but I know that many things are important to me to I get focused on my job and my other responsibilities in life that I really don't make time for myself. I'm going to be 27 this year and I am not dating anyone no in a serious relationship and I think it is because I am so focused on my life activities that I don't stop to smell the roses. How do you change who you are, is there something wrong with the way my life is? I don't know. I live for Christ and that is what is important but also as a human I want to have a family and kids. Most of all my friends are married and have children or are expecting. I think I am jealous because I want it to be my turn but also understand it is not in my control and have to wait for Gods timing. I just wish there was something I could do to help speed that up. If it was only that easy and brought to my attention I would do it. I will be patient for it and try not to focus on it.

Weird how you get on a subject like that at Vegas. Tonight I found myself wanting to play poker really bad after watching bobby so I went up stairs and got on my laptop and played online poker for free in my room. Remind you that I am staying in a casino and am playing poker in my room. Funny? I think so.

Blessings.......

Day three in Vegas..

2007-06-12T21:27:00.000-07:00

Today was nice. I'm tired but feeling good. I slept in, had some coffee and then worked a show. Lets just say, I love my vacation. Vegas has been an interesting place. I have gathered many opinions about the people hear. Now if I could take these views and help change things that would be great. I know that doesn't make since but wait until day 5.

This has been a great experience for me to learn more about some of the things Sterling is doing with Team Dealers. I'm excited about the growth there and can't wait to combine some efforts and really bust my butt next year. Mr. Chin said that if Sterling doubles what it did this past year then we will be invited to China to see him and Good Green. I'm going to hold him to that and try and double my numbers this next year. This has put a fire under me. I love challenges and can't wait to go for the goal on this. I really think that Sterling can do it. Lance is taking care of the dealers, I will be holding down the colleges. You have two big gunners going to work and putting down some numbers.

Back to me since this is about me, kinda. Tonight I watched the show at Treasure Island and let me tell you, DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME. the show is dumb. Its like watch bad cheerleaders on TV. They were off on just about everything. They are so far away you can't see anything. Not that I was there to see anything. Both Lance and I thought it was dumb. The coolest part of the whole show was a pirate who jump off these rocks that were high up. He did a couple flips and stuff. Also something cool was that I guy tried to pick my pocket and take my wallet but I felt it and put my hand on my back side. That was pretty cool to me!

One thing that continues to tug at my heart is just the way people are here. They are truly fake. Most people try to be someone they are not and I wish that people would just be real. I wonder if they are not happy with who they are? Why do you think just because you come to Vegas you can be dumb. Vegas is not a free pass for idiots.

I thank God that I am who I am today and that I can honor Him and not care about it. I guess Vegas is a place where I am proud to be who I am and just wish other could do that too. Its nice to be in company with someone who share my morals and can help be a light in the tunnel of darkness.

Blessings.....

Day two in Vegas....

2007-06-11T22:54:00.001-07:00

It has been called sin city, other call it Las Vegas, I call it a great place to vacation on the companies dime. We are here for the SGMA show. This was supposed to be a good show but since someone, not me but if you know the company you will know who, didn't do their homework, we now realize this is kind of a waste of time. So I got a free vacation to Vegas on my companies on the companies dime. So far it has been long but fun. I have ate sushi the past two night. This evening we had dinner with two of the owners, his son and Chein who is their translator. It was good times although my boss seems to think he has to yell when he talked to people. I think he thinks the louder he yells the easier it is to understand him. lol

Today was a long day at the show. Some good people stopped by but not the target audience we are looking for. I have also got to spend some time with an old friend. It has been fun. A side I have never seen. At time awkward because we don't get each others humor at times but over all positive. I can see how you can get caught up in the Vegas hype but try not to get sucked in. Yesterday and today I gambled a little bit. I'm not much of a gambler and I won $43 and I think I'm done. I can't justify the spending of money on it and would rather spend my money another way.

I am blessed for this opportunity and pray that I will continue to "behave" myself while I am here. It hurts my heart to see how some of the people act and dress here. I wish I could just take people away and fine them a job that didn't cause them to "show" so much. Its hard to explain. I pray that my future wife doesn't work in Vegas and is dressing in a manor honoring to God.

Blessings to you all...

My first night in Vegas....

2007-06-10T22:33:00.000-07:00

It has been a crazy adventure over the last 24 hours. It all started last night as Paul and I ended up staying the night at the Double Tree in Seatac. When we got up at 4:25 this morning to leave we packed up and headed to Park Masters to drop the car off and before taking a shuttle to the airport. As we got to Park Master Paul rememebered he left his phone at the Double Tree. He took my car back and by the time he met me at the airport to check in we have 35 minutes until I flight left. Because of this our luggage was delayed in getting to us and I didn't get it until 5:30pm. the frustrating part was we had dinner reservations at 6:30. So Lance and I hauled to the airport to pick up our stuff and hauled back to the hotel for dinner. We made it but Paul was late getting to dinner.

We ate at the Social House. It was a sushi place. Up until this point I have never really like fish or ate sushi besided Cali rolls. Tonight I experience real sushi. I had Eel, Salmon, tuna some yellow tailed something, crab something and spicey tuna. We also had some california rolls. I was scared at first and didn't really know what to expect as I started eating and it wasn't bad. It had a nice flavor. I honestly thought I was gonna get sick but was shocked that I liked it.

After dinner Lance and I walked around. He was very nice and took me around to different hotels. I was very thankful to have him do that because I don't really feel comfortable walking around here. I don't know the area or know where to go.

Check out some of these pictures from the day, my first day on my first trip to Las Vegas.

Tomorrow we start working and day two. I look forward to another day in the city of "make it what you want".

Blessings............

Hyper Static Union playing Superstitious

2007-06-08T07:27:00.001-07:00

You have to love this!

Shawn Lewis

2007-06-08T07:14:00.001-07:00

Lead singer of Hyper Static Union singing one of my favorite songs ever!

To Funny to pass up............

2007-06-07T10:07:00.001-07:00

Humbled by True Friendship.....

2007-06-06T22:00:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for all my friends. I know that I would do just about anything for anyone of my friends. Tonight a friend of mine, stepped up big time tonight and has shown me true friendship. He came over after work and helped me out and spent about 5 hrs of his own time, away from his family, to help me out. I can't express in words how happy and thankful I am. That really means a lot to me that someone would do that. Tonight he has shown me true friendship and I'm honored that he calls me friend. Take time to thank your friends. Don't take forgranted the things your friends do for you. Tonight my friend who helped me out is my Hero for the month of June!

Blessings.............

Becoming Illegal (Actual letter from an Iowa resident and sent to his senator)....

2007-06-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

This makes me laugh and I wanted to share it......

The Honorable Tom Harkin
731 Hart Senate Office Building
Phone (202) 224 3254
Washington D C, 20510

Dear Senator Harkin,

As a native Iowan and excellent customer of the Internal Revenue Service, I am writing to ask for your assistance. I have contacted the Department of Homeland Security in an effort to determine the process for becoming an illegal alien and they referred me to you. My primary reason for wishing to change my status from U.S. Citizen to illegal Alien stems from the bill which was recently passed by the Senate and for which you voted. If my understanding of this bill's provisions is accurate, as an illegal alien who has been in the United States for five years, all I need to do to become a citizen is to pay a $2,000 fine and income taxes for three of the last five years. I know a good deal when I see one and I am anxious to get the process started before everyone figures it out.

Simply put, those of us who have been here legally have had to pay taxes every year so I'm excited about the prospect of avoiding two years of taxes in return for paying a $2,000 fine. Is there any way that I can apply to be illegal retroactively? This would yield an excellent result for me and my family because we paid heavy taxes in 2004 and 2005.

Additionally, as an illegal alien I could begin using the local emergency room as my primary health care provider. Once I have stopped paying premiums for medical insurance, my accountant figures I could save almost $10,000 a year. Another benefit in gaining illegal status would be that my daughter would receive preferential treatment relative to her law school applications, as well as "in-state" tuition rates for many colleges throughout the United States for my son.

Lastly, I understand that illegal status would relieve me of the burden of renewing my driver's license and making those burdensome car insurance premiums. This is very important to me given that I still have college age children driving my car.

If you would provide me with an outline of the process to become illegal(retroactively if possible) and copies of the necessary forms, I would be most appreciative. Thank you for your assistance.

Your Loyal Constituent,
Donald Ruppert
Burlington, IA

Get your Forms (NOW)!! Call your Internal Revenue Service 1-800-289-1040.

Please pass this onto your friends so they can save on this great offer!!!

First time out.....

2007-06-05T08:44:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I went golfing with some buddies after work and man oh man did I suck it up. This is the first time I have golfed this year. It is also the first time I have golfed with my fixed wrist. (last year I had surgery on my right wrist) I shot a 54 on the front 9 and on the back 9 I am sure I would have shot a 70. We didn't get to finish because it was getting late. We got kicked off the course on the 16th hole and never got to finish our game. If we would have got to finish I am sure I would have shot a 125. This par 3 on the back 9 took my places I have never been and I shot a 13. I am very embarrassed by this and that messed me up the rest of the game.

I pray that the rust is gone but am afraid that my chipping is going to be an issue this season. It wasn't the best of days for golf but was still fun to get out.

Blessings.....

The Garden....

2007-06-01T15:13:00.001-07:00

Thats right, I have a garden. It all started about two weeks ago. Some friends helped me set it up. We planted corn, tomatos, beans, bell peppers, cucumbers, peppers and squash.

It's a lot of work trying to get a garden together. There is weeding like no other and then trim and other stuff. It was dirty but fun. As you can see I had some help.

The toughest part was raking all the weeds out and pulling them by hand. Once we started planting we had to make sure we watered everything to make sure the plants grow up nice and strong.

After we planted & watered everything it looked great! I'm still working on it and will get more pictures as my garden grows! I look forward to this new adventure in my life.

Blessings..........................

A long but exciting week of events....

2007-05-31T20:48:00.000-07:00

So last Friday my Friends Andrea "Jock strap " Williams and Handsome Rob Williams came up to visit for the holiday weekend. It was really cool to spend some time with them. We were all over and on the go a lot. A newly friend of mine graduated from PLU on Sunday so that was exciting. She is now spending 3 weeks in Europe. It must be rough! Also on Sunday my mom, grandma, grandpa, uncle jerry & his girl friend, uncle joe and aunt bobbie all came over for a bbq in the new house. During this weekend we were also moving out of the old apt and in to this new house. So yes this past weekend was exciting but stressful.

This whole week my mom has been staying with us to help us get settled in at the new place. She has been a huge help. She has been cleaning and organizing everything for us. It has been a blessing because we have been free to do other things.

Also this week my friend Carrie Moultrie had surgery, please keep her in your prayers. You can visit her blog at Http://carriemoultrie.blogspot.com.

This week has been busy but good for me. Work is going ok. I got to spend some time with some great friends and I got to spend some time with my Mom. God has blessed me this week and I hope we all can recognize our blessings and remember to thank God for them.

Enjoy your weekend!

Very soon....

2007-05-20T00:09:00.000-07:00

This past week has been crazy! We have 5 days until we move into our new place. My brothers and I along with some friends have been busting out butt in the yard to make it look nice. My friend Trish and I have started building my garden. I'm super excited. Here in the next day or so I will start planting veggies! Right now we have dug up the area and pulled out 90% of the weeds. By Monday night I will have my garden planted and looking good!

Do I sound dorky, I think so but I can't wait to have a garden to tend to. I'm growing up who would have thought I would have a garden. So far we have put a lot of work into the new house and I can't wait until we finish it. Right now I am spending about 12 hrs a week working on the yard and very soon it will be complete and we will have our house warming party!

Blessings and thank you everyone who has helped................................

Yardwork, Friends & a 64 oz soda..........

2007-05-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

My brothers and I are moving into a 5 bedroom house on May 25th and we have already started doing yard work at the house. We have spent a total of about 10 hours this week working on it. Tonight we had some friends over helping us BIG TIME. It was a lot of help and got a lot done. Now we just have to fine toon some things in the back yard. We are going to have a flower garden and a veggie garden in the back and are in the process of making it hot!

We have take some pictures and will post those later on as "Project House" continues. Stay tuned for more information on that.

Tomorrow my friend Mei Ling is flying up from San Lorenzo, CA to visit for the weekend. I haven't seen her since November. She is my best friend from college. I'm really excited for her to come up. Its going to be good times. Hopefully we will stay out of trouble but who knows with us.

Blessings..........................

House Guests....

2007-05-09T07:10:00.000-07:00

Monday night we signed papers for the house my brothers and I are renting. We are very excited and have already started doing yard work even though we don't move in until May 25th. Our goal is to make the front yard look 100% better. As of now it has hydro seed down but we are pulling weeds, putting more grass seed down and getting ready to make it look nice. Last night Mat and Ben did a lot of the work. I had youth group so I missed out on it but over the next two days I will be able to help.

Back to the house guests, On Friday night my friend Mei Ling is coming up from California to visit. Its her first time here so I am excited to see her. She is one of my best friends from college. So this will be an exciting weekend.

Blessings...................

A day at the park

2007-04-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

Picture this, you walk into Safeco field from center field. In fact it would look something like what you see to your left.

My buddy Tim Bauslaugh went to the game on Saturday vs the Royals. I think it was actually the Royals & our starting pitcher Weaver vs The Mariners. Weaver gave up 6 runs in the first 1/3 of the inning. I don't think I have heard the stadium boo so loud. It was amazing the guy hasn't made it past 3 innings since starting a game this year and we are paying him $8 Million a year! AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH, ok deep breath. It just angers me to have a good team have such a bad pitcher hurt us. He is paid way to much for how much damage he does. He was supposed to do some good things but I have yet to see them.

After the game, Tim and I went to Applebee's and had a great time just hanging out. Our friend Deb came to join us and it was just a fun time.

Over all it was a very fun Saturday at the Park with Tim. If you haven't caught a game yet I recommend you going soon!

Blessings................

A day of remembrance.....

2007-04-24T11:25:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought of how you will be remembered after you're gone? Today marks the second anniversary of my Dad passing. Today I took off work and have spent the morning in Gods word and in prayer at Cutter Point. This morning has been a blessing and refreshing for me.

I remember my senior year in high school when I went to my dads for Christmas. While in the airport getting ready to fly back he made me sit on his lap and take a picture. It was embarrassing but funny. He had a great since of humor and could make anyone laugh. He would always do the craziest things. I think that is where I get a lot of my humor and craziness.

(picture taken 1998)

On road trips we would listen to Hooty and the Blow fish and this one time he made grape jelly meatballs for our family reunion and we ended up taking most of them back home with us. Lets just say I'm not a fan of grape jelly anymore but I still love meatballs!

Life is full of memories and thankfully no one can take those away. Take time to enjoy your friends & family and create wonderful memories today that will last forever!

Blessings...........

Memories...

2007-04-12T21:20:00.000-07:00

Thinking back over the years I have good and bad memories. Its crazy how one thing can spark something in your head. One minute your thinking about a ball game and then the next minutes your side tracked on something from the past. Lately I have been thinking back about 3 years ago. Life was simple then, it wasn't complicated nor boring. It was exciting and refreshing every day. Sometimes I wish things could go back that way they were but then I wouldn't be blessed with everyone in my life now. I thank God for the people who are in my life but I'm thankful for those who were in my life. I know you can't go back in to the past so we must build on the future!

Blessings......

Happy Easter........

2007-04-08T20:29:00.000-07:00

Today was a little different then most Easters. My mom actually came up to my apartment and we had Easter dinner there this year. We started the day off by going to church. There she got to meet some of my cool friends. After church we ran to the store got some things for dinner where we cooked the traditional ham. We watched Rocky Balboa, ate dinner and relaxed.
It was actually nice to have a low key day for once. Usually Mat & I drive down to Aberdeen and then have to drive back up. The only sad part was that we didn't get to spend it with my Grandma and Grandpa.

Around 3pm I had to go to my softball games so that was nice also being up here we didn't have to rush home. When I got to the field it started to rain a little bit and by the end of the game it has a nice drizzle going. Nothing hard just a lot of misty rain. We ended up loosing but we won our second game. The other team didn't show up, go figure it was raining. So we play again next weekend.

Over all it was a nice day. I kept telling everyone not to worry because when Jesus rose from the grave I'm sure he wanted it to be nice so I had high hopes of the weather clearing up. It finally stopped raining for like 15 minutes this evening. I hope you all had a wonderful day.

Blessings........

HOME!!!

2007-04-01T14:50:00.000-07:00

Finally, I'm home. It was a great trip from meeting some celebraties to talking with some top knotch coaches. We got the head coach from UCONN men's basketball to sign one of our UCONN Signature balls. Anyone know who I'm talking about?

The only complaint is we had these two guys sitting behind us on the flight going crazy about their computers. It was like they were lusting after these computers. Non stop for 5 1/2 hours. I was going crazy and was thankful that they stopped.............Once we got to Seattle. I had 4 hours of sleep that night then had to fly forever and these two guys couldn't quiet down for anything.

Today I have a softball game so that will be exciting. Maybe we will win but who cares. I'm tired and just want to go play so I can come home and sleep!!

I will have some pictures on here soon.

Blessings....

Cold Lanta day 3

2007-03-30T22:26:00.000-07:00

It feels like home. Its raining and feels great. It's not as hot as it ws the past couple days. Its been fun so far. Today was the longest day ever. We got up at the crack of dawn and had to work 12 hours with a one hour break for lunch today. My back and legs are sore and I can't wait to get home and get some sleep.

The highlight of my day was meeting & speaking with Mike Greenberg from ESPN Radio's Mike & Mike in the Morning. It was pretty cool. He gave a shout out to Josh and I on the radio tonight.

Tomorrow's another day.....................

Hotlanta day 2

2007-03-29T23:30:00.000-07:00

6:30pm
After a long day of work we finally got back to the hotel. The bed are so hard it. I laid on the ground and it is honestly softer then my bed. My back is super sore and stiff. I feel 40ish. We had a lot of people come buy out booth tonight. On our way back we saw a huge stage and vendors setting up. It looks like tonight things are going to start popin.

9:30pm
Its crazy here. I have never seen soo many bible thumpers. Its honestly crazy. All I here are people saying you're a sinner and going to hell. I was shocked by all of this. It is totally a different world down here in the south. It's tough to explain.

We've talked to a homeless guy tonight, we've won some final four trivia and saw a bunch of people running through a fountain. It was a pretty eventful night. Panic at the Disco was just playing a concert for everyone in this park. AT&T has a huge set up. Its like a big party with games, food, music and what seems everyones favorite beer.

We're now off to bed to try and get some sleep. I tried jumping on my bed for a few minutes so hopefully its softer.

blessings.....

Atlanta Night 1

2007-03-28T21:52:00.000-07:00

Ok so at 4:30 am this morning I get up and head to the air port to my flight to Hot-lanta. So the Josh, my co worker and we have exit row seats and are stoked that we will have some leg room. Psych!!!

3:30pm
The seats were great until we figured out they didn't recline. I got the window and it was freezing cold so I didn't sleep well on the flight. So once we landed we got our stuff and headed to the hotel. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Downtown, don't ever stay there. Well for some reason we had a problem checking in. They could not find my reservation. After about 40 minutes they found it. I was scheduled to check in on the 26th when my confirmation had me for the 28th.

7:30 pm
So everything went well setting up the booth. It only almost fell on my once. Downtown is pretty nice with everything they have set up for the weekend. After a very long day we are ready to get some dinner and call it a night.

Saturday's Adventures...

2007-03-25T23:47:00.000-07:00

Yes that is me, drained. I spent the whole day at the NWCEC (Northwest Chrstian Education Conference). I am usually an exhibitor when it comes to conferences but I was an attendee this time. It drained me. I purchased some wonderful things for youth group so I am excited about that. It was amazing talking to some of the people there. God has truely blessed me in my ministry and I am thankful to have so many people support me even when I do embarrassing and stupid things. I am looking forward to next year because this year was such a good time. Again I was upsetted today because of the violation of the Bathroom Man Law but such is life. I will pray for them all to learn and be aware of the law for future conferences and life experiences.

God is doing some great things on South Hill and I'm excited to see whats in store next at CCBC.

Blessings to you all.....................

Don't Violate the Man Law.....

2007-03-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

(these are just actor's trying to get the point across)

This weekend one of the most important Man Law's was violated not once, but TWICE! I was at Overlake Christian Church at a Christian Education Conference, while there I had to use the restroom. When I walked in no one was using the urinal so I went to the 3rd stall. When I would look to my right there was about 4 empty stalls and to my left about 3 empty stalls. For those of you who do not know the Man Law about the restroom, I will share it with you. When a man is using a urinal you must go as far away from him as you can. So when men come in they will go to the far left or right and then skip every other stall until they have to stand next to another man to pee.

Well thinking this is a known Law nation wife I felt safe in my own state until this weekend. Twice this weekend as I was going pee a man came in and use the urinal directly next to me. No skipping of stalls or anything. I know what your going to ask and no, I was the only one in there.

Why did he not go to the far left or far right? I don't know but felt compelled to share this with you all. I was very upset about this.

Friday Adventures.....

2007-03-23T21:43:00.000-07:00

Last night my cats, Starsky & Hutch, stayed at Mat's girl friends house because she was taking them to get fixed. They are both girls, I know the name doesn't fit. Thats what happens when you name cats before you know what sex they are.

Well the past couple weeks they have been wigging out. Jumping up corners of the walls, dragging their bodies across the carpet, howling like crazy and just being very weird. So we took them in to and tonight they are hurting. Starsky was walking backwards and puking all over while Hutch was bleeding everywhere (thank goodness I wasn't home for it). I take it back, Starsky is puking up foam. I feel very bad for her because she wont lay down and go to sleep. She is fighting the medicine and is sick (poor kitty). As of now Hutch is passed out and Starsky is restless. I'm going to put them to bed and hope for the best with them and my carpet.

Today I went to a Christian Conference at Overlake Christian Church in Redmond. I got to listen to some key speakers as well as pick up some really good idea's for our youth ministry. It was really encouranging to get some feed back from other youth workers from the area and also network a little. I'm excited to see what comes from this and also what God has in store ahead.

Its been a crazy day filled with excitment and tomorrow is day two of the conference. Can't wait.

Blessings.........

Weekend of Birthdays Pt. 2

2007-03-19T12:55:00.000-07:00

(this is Mom and little sister 2 moths before the party)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

With the terrible 2's out of the way. Kaylee turned 3 on Sunday (3/18/07). She had a great party and only the coolest cake ever.

It was made out of COOKIE DOUGH!! GENIUS!

Kaylee Prozik, daughter of Trish & Pete Prozik had a birthday that every child would dream of. She got to hang out with some of the coolest people in the Puyallup/Spanaway/Graham area. She got some good gifts and yes she had been converted to using Sterling balls.

(This is the cake her mommy made for her party with friends)

The party was fun. Bert, Carrie and I all got worked by Trish in some Texas Hold'em. The whole night was a blast. Its great to be blessed by good friends you can call family. * NOTE* I am not a big cake eater but when you put a cake made out of cookie in front of me, lets just say it's on!!

Happy Birthday Kaylee I wish many blessings to you. Its a blessing watching you grow up into an young lady.

Blessings........

Weekend of Birthdays pt. 1

2007-03-17T19:20:00.000-07:00

Here she is birthday girl #1. Saturday I went down to see some family. It was my Grandma's 66th birthday. I have only been around for the last 26 birthdays so I'm assuming that the first 40 weren't as good without me around!

My cousin Josh, Brother Mat, and his girl friend Des all went down and spent the day with Grandma and other family. We had dinner then cake! It was a fun day of just hanging out. Grandma got a new vacume as well as some other gifts and it didn't take her long to get up and start going. She is one of the best Grandma's ever and shows you more love then you will ever know. Despite how she feels that day she will make you feel right at home even if you don't want her to. In high school anytime anyone came over she was always going out of her way for my friends. She truly is someone who loves all and it the model Grandma for all Grandma's. Sorry everyone but I think she takes home the "Grandma of the Year Award" hands down. Thank you Grandma for being you. I love you lots

I know you all would like to meet her now so lets jump in a car and travel down to see her.

Blessings.........

Round 1

2007-03-17T12:52:00.000-07:00

Well after an amazing 2 days of basketball we have seen a lot of 6 -11 upsets. My highlight was Dukes lost in the first round and Wisconsins come back win. Then Tennessee's 120 win was just icing to the cake. Last night I got home after softball practice and just enjoyed watching some tv in my bed before falling alseep around 9:30pm.

Round 2 starts tomorrow, stay tuned for more action........

Let the madness commence...........

2007-03-14T14:33:00.000-07:00

March Madness!!

It's that time again! I think that Thursday and Friday should be holiday's. Why you may ask because of the nations hype for basketball during this time. Its bigger then the super bowl or the world series. The road to the final four!

It starts with 64 teams and in the end there can only be 1. This year I am going to Atalanta during the Final Four for work. Its very exciting but not as exciting as the journey ahead.
We have 2 teams from Washington representing. Go Cougs and Go Zags. On a side note the women's tournament is coming up soon! Go Zags again!

Fill out your brackets and get your TV's set because its going to be an exciting two weeks of basketball! Let the games begin!!

Basketball Tournament 2007

2007-03-11T17:25:00.000-07:00

Your looking at the 3rd best team at the WOL Basketball Tournament in the men's division.

March 10th 2007, seven men get up at the crack of dawn and travel 1.5 hours to Kelso, WA. They strap on their shoe's, warm up and at 9:30 they begin to play. At the end of they day they are dead tired but have come out victorious but loose a vital game. Yes we took third and we are happy about it.

(Carl, Joe, Chris Gaylen, Josh. Missing

from the photo are: Matt, Rob & Deb)

Update on life.......

2007-03-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

Three days ago I finally submitted my application for Beacon University. I'm a little excited about it but still unsure about what I want to do. My life has been so crazy lately that I really haven't had time to slow down and figure out "Me". It seems I get so caught up with wanting to help people or scheduling things for me to do that I never set time for my own personal grown or reflection of what has been going on. Work has been pretty busy lately and I have been busy with that.

My worst enemy is myself. I am pretty hard on myself about things and feel that I need to improve my attitude towards others. I'm happy with life but I so focused on the now that I get stressed and take it out on people around me. I'm going to work on that and try to leave work at work and start fresh each day.

A week ago we had our sr. high school winter retreat. It was amazing, the speaker spoke on authentic Christianity. It was pretty powerful stuff. It made you think about how you are all the time not just part of the day. One thing I got out of it was to challenge myself to deal with the things of now and not put them off until later. It was nice to go up into the mountains away from all the distractions of the world. I actually had some great quiet time with God and had a chance to write in my prayer journal. It was a great uplifting experience.

Blessings...............