my.thoughts

I'm moving on...

2006-12-08T20:25:00.000-06:00

Winter

2006-11-30T16:36:00.000-06:00

da turkey day

2006-11-26T18:03:00.000-06:00

Well the Thanksgiving "vacation" is about to end. In less then 12 hours I'll be back at work. Hooray! Not much to report on so I'll just put it in list form:
1. Had LAN Party 3.1
2. 2 meals for Thanksgiving Day
3. Our small group "training" class is over, which I'm glad about.
4. I'm watching Amy play Super Mario World as I type this.
5. 2 friends from college got engaged (not to each other). Congrats Jana and Fenwick!
6. I'm leaving for training in one week.
7. I'm going on vacation in two weeks.
8. We had people over yesterday to play ping-pong.
9. I saw Cars for the first time this weekend (twice).
10. I picked up a very interesting book that I don't recommend everyone read. More about that to come. Hint: It's a New York Times best seller.
11. My car turned 51,000. Just breakin'er in.
12. Lame.

first the magazine now this.

2006-11-18T23:15:00.000-06:00

Check out his guy...oh boy, here come the comments.

little events

2006-11-13T21:23:00.000-06:00

No real news here. Just some everyday stuff.
I chopped some wood for our first fire in the new house. Here, look at the blurry pictures.

I'll be going to Boston for training on December 4-8. If you're curious here's a link to what the course is. And yes, I'll be staying with Bobby while I'm up there. And yes, I turned down a hotel in Chicago to sleep on the floor in Boston. And yes, I'm stoked. If I were a rich man I'd probably take this course just for the "fun" of it. I'm just glad that NPH is sending me.

The plan is to get back on that Friday (12/8) and then Amy and I will be going up to Omaha, NE (nope, don't know anyone there) for a couple days to celebrate our anniversary. We've even talked about driving up to MN to see the Krizzle. I want to cross the border while we're up there too, we'll see if that actually happens.

OH and btw, the rumors are true I was Nacho Libre for Halloween. Yes, there are pictures out there too. Somehow (dirty Nazarene hot line I guess) everyone at work found out too. Just a hair embarrassing when the head of the HR department starts asking about your costume that involved tights and ladies underwear.

Also, I joined Facebook. Never thought I'd do it, because it seemed just like some other trendy online community. But I was bored on Saturday so I joined. Joe was pretty happy about it.

And finally. If they would have had games like this in school I probably would be a much better typpper.

Ted Haggard : an update

2006-11-05T17:09:00.000-06:00

Here you go:
Ted Haggard Response
Gayle Haggard Response

Well here I stand corrected, but not embarrassed. Ted Haggard admitted that he is guilty of sexual immorality. Again, I'm not embarrassed for, as some would say, being proved wrong. I love Haggards' response. It proves that he is truly still a man of God. He points out one very important life lesson and that is, that we all have issues. Skeleton's in our closet, as some like to put it. They are the things that we constantly have to keep in check. And the moment we take the spotlight off of them, because we think we have it under control, they start creeping up on us again. OH very important to realize. Learn this lesson from Haggard. ALWAYS keep a spotlight on those issues you think you have under control. I have lost no respect for Haggard. I've probably gained some because I see triumph in his situation. He even praises God for his accuser, how amazing!

Ted Haggard

2006-11-04T17:22:00.000-06:00

First off, If you don't want to "listen" to me rant, please move on to the previous post.
Second: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15536263/
Third: Rant

There are two things that I must confess first about my feelings toward Ted Haggard. First, I have tremendous respect for Haggard. I have never heard him preach. Nor have I ever read any of his books. But I have read a book by one of his associate pastors named Rob Brendle, whom I've also heard preach multiple times. I have much, much, respect for Brendle and Brendle speaks very highly of Haggard, therefore I think very highly of Haggard. They say respect is earned, well Haggard earned my respect through Brendle.

Second, until I hear from the mouth of Haggard that he "commited sexual immoral conduct" with his accuser Mike Jones I will believe he is innocent. Why? Because I'm the eternal optimist and also I don't think a man who's heart is aligned with Gods, that God would let him continue to be successful (I mean come on 14,000 member church and 30 million member association).

Ok with those two points made, I'm realizing I don't have much more content left. All I really had to say was in the previous paragraphs. But will say this, we all know that the "church" is a far from perfect organization. Even those mega-churches, such as Haggards' New Life Church (btw NLC has impressed me so much that I fully believe that I will one day be a regular member there, more on that in the coming years) don't have the "business" side of church figured out. Here's what I don't understand about the church board convincing Haggard to resign based on their private investigation.
“We, the Overseer Board of New Life Church, have concluded our deliberations concerning the moral failings of Pastor Ted Haggard,” a statement from the church said. “Our investigation and Pastor Haggard’s public statements have proven without a doubt that he has committed sexually immoral conduct.”
I can pretend to look through this situation with "non-believer eyes" and I kind of understand that they don't want a man who isn't perfect representing the church. But looking upon this situation with "believer eyes" here is what I see. I see a man who sins. Even before this scandle Pastor Ted sinned. He'd be the first to tell you so. And who better to raise the believers around him than someone who grows too. I don't won't some status-symbol, picture-perfect, leader talking down to me. I want someone to be by my side not in front or above. To me it sounds as though the church has given him the boot simply because they have found a flaw in their picture perfect man. They probably wouldn't put it like that, but that's how it sounds. It's just like the many small churches around the USA that have kicked their pastors out because they found out about some small thing like addiction (drugs, alcohol, pornography, etc..) in their leader. Rather than confront him and help him, they kick him out. I'm curious where in the Bible (you know, that book sitting behind the manual) is the list of sins in order of severity. I do understand we don't want a two-faced man/woman being our leader, I get that. But I'm guessing millions of us will go to church tomorrow and listen to a man who "sinned" on the way to church.

Oh the rant is over.
Joe, this is for you....woot.

buzz + yoda = good times

2006-11-03T09:02:00.000-06:00

I got some great pictures from Dan and Cara today. I just had to share these, they're great. Plus I wanted to post them before my sister did.

i even made them a mix cd

2006-10-26T18:24:00.000-05:00

I have some sad news...take a look at the picture you can probably guess. Yeah so I've been in contact with the Hitch50 guys, even before they started their journey. It was all planned out I was going to get off work today and drive them to Jefferson City, MO.

Well it turns some other guy offered them a ride too, to Jefferson City and then south. Honestly I'm pretty hurt by this because I've been gearing myself up about this for awhile (ask Amy or the IS Dept@nph). Perhaps it's for the best.

On a much lighter note check this out:
Ladies and Gentleman:
Reagen Kristine Thomas

Congrats,

Chris and Jennifer

Maybe more real "life" news next time. Here entertain yourself.

Plug: Hitch50.com

2006-10-12T22:32:00.000-05:00

Hey guys. Go check out www.hitch50.com. These 2 guys are trying to hitchhike to ALL 50 states in 50 days. They're only 3 days into their journey but already covered 6 states. They seem like 2 really cool guys. They are relying only on the kindness of strangers for rides (yes that includes Alaska and Hawaii) but they are taking arranged rides as well. So I contacted them and I'm giving them a ride from Jefferson City, MO to Topeka, KS. We're going to stop and have some BBQ of course while they're in the KC area. It's going to be great.

all the dearest will read

2006-10-08T20:55:00.000-05:00

This if for all of you who will read. Its kind of in response to Jonathans response about a lack of updating. It's about where I am. I'm not expecting everyone to read the attached document, but if you do, please offer any suggestions. If you feel that your response is going to be too long, send me an email. Thank you all for reading my blog. It means so much that every one of you visits.

P.S. This document is actually one of my journals so please don't think it was made to be a actual letter.

Can We Change (pdf)

BTW, is there anyone who reads my blog who I have never met in person? Just curious.

Goodbye legendary friend of KC

2006-10-07T09:24:00.000-05:00

The legendary Buck O'Neil passed away last night. I remember this man growing up, and up until his death, he represented everything good about Kansas City.

Please read more about him.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/15164010/

Hooray for photos!

2006-09-23T18:16:00.000-05:00

Well, here it is. Our new house.

Want more pictures?
Packing (Old House)
Unpacking (New House)

P.S. I got to meet one of the neighbors. Nice people I suppose.

Oh, and I mowed the lawn. It only took me a little over an hour to mow with a push mower. And then 10mins to trim. Not to shabby.

housing woes...

2006-09-18T20:59:00.000-05:00

Ughh...Well we got all our stuff moved to the new house. Now we're just going through the process of unpacking and organizing. And let me tell you, I don't know if moving is like this for everyone but moving is a patience tester. Wooowee, Amy and I's nerves were really tested with each other through this process. But all is well, we're just worn out and stressed....But we're doing great!! The new house is pretty sweet. I don't know if all of Blue Springs is like this but the area around our house is pretty. Lots of trees and fields. Not to mention that a mega Wal-Mart and a Home Depot is 3 mins away. Oh and Hy-Vee is 2 mins away. Basically we don't have any reason to leave a 3 mile radius except when we go to work. Oh man there is an excellent running path a stone's throw from our back yard (yes I said a stone's throw). Sorry, no pictures for now, I left my camera in my sister's car. Cara, give me my camera back!

Props to these people for helping. Oh man, we'd still be living in the old house if these people didn't help. We are very gracious that God has blessed us with spectacular friends/family.

Dave and Debbie Knapp
Dan and Cara Dickson
My Mom and Dad
Angie and Julie
Amy's Aunt and Uncle (Sandy and Danny)
Amy's Grandma (Wanda)
Steve B.
Ross and Katie Latta
Bill M. for his trailer
Jazz

Prayer Request:
- My Mom, she's not been feeling very well at all.
- Also, please pray that our old house sells. I don't want my Mom having to deal with the payments.

Recent albums purchased:
John Mayer - Continuum
The Mars Volta - Amputechture (There's a 16min track which is amazing!! You probably wouldn't like it)

prayer

2006-09-09T20:51:00.000-05:00

Amy's best friend, Angie (pictured above, middle) was hospitalized today for having seizers. There is no need for more details to be shared at this time. So I beg you to please, please, please pray for healing. I believe God has so much in store for Angie. We love you Angie.

the farmers life for me

2006-09-03T16:28:00.000-05:00

Amy and I found a house!! Sorry only one picture for now. And yes, that F250 King Ranch will fit in the garage. And NO it does not come with the house (I wouldn't want it anyway). So pending something major coming up with the inspection, this is it. Amy and I are really excited about how God is going to use this house for His benifit. It's in Blue Springs, MO. [Adam, you'll be happy about this because now you'll not be the only one getting hassled by James about living all the way out in Columbia.]

I know what you're thinking. Ok Scott I thought church location was a big determining factor when it came to your house location. Well, um, yeah that part of our lives is still a mess. But get this, just down the street is a fairly big church that has an excellent music ministry. They allow bands to come in and play on they're sweet stage. That'd be cool for me to get involved in. I've only been to one show there, and I was pretty impressed.

How much did the house cost? That's none of your stinkin business. Nosey.

One more thing. The lot that the house is on is a corner lot. And it's big. The current owner has a riding lawnmower. I asked him how long it takes him to mow. He said if he doesn't trim, an hour to an 1hr 15min!! All I have is a regular push mower. But I think God's going to provide us with a pretty sweet deal on a riding mower if we want it.

OH there's one thing I left out. It has a sweet shed in the backyard. Righteous.

dining with a priest

2006-08-29T08:48:00.000-05:00

Let's recap/update:

My Grandpa: 8/20/06
Amy's Grandpa: 8/24/06
Last payment to credit card company went through: 8/25
Chiefs Game: 8/26
Trip to Dubuque, IA for the Funeral: 8/27
My first Wake, they prayed through the rosary: 8/27
My first Catholic Funeral: 8/28
My first Catholic Eucharist (no I didn't partake!!) 8/28
Drive home: 8/28

I have two more things to add.
First, the whole time I was at the Wake and the Funeral, my mind was racing with questions. I kept running through questions I was going to ask Richard when I got home. So Richard when you read this (and I know you will) prepare yourself.
Secondly, I got to dine with the priest of the church/parish where the funeral was held. A side note: The church was very very cool looking. I wouldn't call it beautiful because I very rarely call anything man-made beautiful. Anyway the priest sat right next to me at the table. I found this very ironic because of all the questions that were racing through my head pertaining to Catholicism. Who better to ask than the "big man" himself, right? YEAH RIGHT!! It was not the appropriate time for questions. So we made small talk. It turns out he was recently in KC visiting a friend of his who's parish is possibly in Olathe/OP he couldn't remember. All he remembered was that it was a parish with a fairly decent school. Around 700 people. Does this sound familiar Richard?

Check out my sister's blog, she's listening to Angels and Airwaves.

Listening to: Northstar (RIP)
Recent Album Purchases: Cursive - Happy Hollow

a tale of 2 grandfathers

2006-08-23T21:29:00.000-05:00

I really wish this post was one of those incredible post that everyone refers and loves but, life just isn't at that point yet.

My grandpa's funeral was today. I'm 2000 miles away and wish I could be there. I'm just glad I got to see him not very long ago. I wrote up a little something to be read aloud at the service.

Wanna read it:
My grandfather. I could tell tales of how he made people laugh. Or how he loved his family. But instead of repeating stories that we all know by the outward actions of my grandpa, I will tell of how he helped raise me from 2000 miles away.

Growing up grandpa was never one of those mysterious characters that was occasionally involved in my life. I can recall years and years of phone calls weekly where he would ask to speak to me on the phone. It might have been a simple "How are things?" or "How's school going?" But even in the simple questions, he chose to be involved in my life. Where it would be easy for someone to get caught up in the momentum that is life, and get too busy to be involved. He made sure to keep up with his family, and let them know that he loved them and was praying constantly for them.

I will never forget when my grandpa's oldest son (my uncle Dale) passed away. The first words out of his mouth when he received the news were, "Well, praise the Lord." Can you imagine that? My grandpa's first born child just passed away and he praises the Lord? That should tell you all that you need to know about my Grandpa. He praised the Lord. He was righteous. He LIVED his message. He was a man after God's own heart. Even up until his last days, he was sharing the Good news of Christ. He fumbled in his words, his memory was fading, but he still praised the Lord for his time here, and was blessed with many opportunities to share Truth.

This was how my Grandfather raised me from 2000 miles away. He showed me how a man lives for God. During the most difficult times of both his wife and son passing away, He praised God. It is because of him that I know the power of prayer. And, it is because of him that I know how a man of faith LIVES.

And since we're on the topic of grandpa's, Amy's grandfather isn't doing well. In fact it's only a matter of time. For awhile there we thought we were going to lose 2 grandpas in 24 hours.

Sorry for the depressing post. Here's some good news; I pay off my credit card this Friday. It's the last payment, then that baby will be at $0 balance.

Here keep yourself busy: My high score so far is 1999!

wasted time and disappointments

2006-08-13T19:43:00.000-05:00

Well, we (Amy and I) drove around on Saturday scouting out houses. And then on Sunday (today) we actually went around w/the realtor and got to see the inside. We looked at 8 houses today which brings our total to 13. Today we saw houses we liked, houses that had black mold, houses for old people, houses w/HUGE foundation issues, and houses that were simply too good to be true.

To say we're discouraged is an understatement. This last batch of houses we researched were located in an area we originally weren't interested in. But due to the fact we hadn't found anything else we opened up our range of locations. So, to not find a house in this area (Blue Springs) was a HUGE blow to us. It is very very frustrating. Because none of the houses we're finding have that "wow" factor that we got when we saw the one I posted about previously. We both felt physically and spiritually that that was the home we supposed to have. And to not get it, was very frustrating. I think we're holding strong though. But still....it's tough.

My Mom left for Seattle today. She just got back not too long ago after being up there for a month. My grandpa I guess, isn't doing to hot, again. He's surpassed the 2 weeks they gave him, which I'm thankful for.

Here's some cool links:

Biiible.com is a very cool Bible search engine.

Cool Game: Squares 2

Would you go pee in this bathroom?

I remember being apart of these in college. It generally resulted in a policeman showing up.

declined offers, interviews, and prayer

2006-08-09T19:53:00.000-05:00

Amy and I found a house we really loved. It was in a good location. The style of the house was something more than a front/back split, which we also liked. And it seemed a reasonable price. We spent a lot of time in prayer, fasting, and sought guidance from spiritual mentors. Made sure the time was right, then we made an offer. Well, as it turns out I think the people were insulted at what we considered a good offer, after all everyone starts low and works their way up. Well, they apparently think their house is worth more than it is because they didn't even counteroffer. To give a little info without talking prices. The house we were looking at is listed almost $14,000 more than the houses around it!!!

Needless to say we were a little discouraged at first. But the night before we made the offer, we told God that He still had plenty of room to close the door on this house. And so He did. And we're glad that he did, because that means he's got something better in store for us!! For those interested here's a picture of the house:

On a totally different note, I had the sweet opportunity (props to D. Krizzle) to interview one of my favorite artist. Stephen Christian of the band Anberlin. Check it out here.

trials and links

2006-08-02T20:41:00.000-05:00

Man the "Back from Cuba" post sure got some response. Most of it useless, but fun nonetheless. I don't have anything new to "update" you all on. So as typical when I don't have much to say I'll put what I do have in list form.

Amy and I are looking for a house. We found one we like, just wondering if God likes it too.
The new Game: RoboClaw
This guy has got some balance
This looks good: The Science of Sleep
Suspended Honda F1 Car
Slow Motion Drag Racing
Some of my magazine subscriptions end soon.
Amy and I attended a Sunday service at Church of the Harvest
Wow, I really don't have anything else. Sorry.

top 22

2006-07-25T17:07:00.000-05:00

Fairly often I have a conversation that goes something like this:

Newcomer: "Well if your sooo into music what is your favorite band?"
Me: "That's not really a fare question for me. It's too hard to narrow it down to just one band."
Newcomer: "Ok, then name your top 5."
Me: "Still not enough, I could maybe come up with a list of 30. And even then the bands wouldn't be in any specific order."
Newcomer: "Ok, who are your Top 30 favorite bands?"
Me: "Is this like, the top 30 bands that I could only listen to for the rest of my life, like if I were on some deserted island? Or is it my Top 30 that I'm feeling today? Or, my Top 30 I recommend? Or, Top 30 bands that I like and you might have heard of?"
Newcomer: "Ughh...never mind."
Me: "Ok...fine. I'll do my favorite Top 30 if I could only listen to these bands, and these bands only"
Newcomer: "Whatever, I'm not interested any more"

So with that, here's my list. Note: It only includes 22 bands because the piece of paper I was writing on only had 22 lines of paper. Also note: This list is definitely subject to change...possibly daily.

Preface:
The bands listed here are bands that I consistently buy their albums. Bands with whom I am constantly keeping up with and following. Some of the bands were choosing because of their lyrical creativity (Death Cab, Thrice, Further Seems Forver). Others were choosing for their musical ability (The Mars Volta, Coheed and Cambria). Others because their just interesting and/or fun.

UPDATE: I made this list a day ago and I'm already seeing things I'd change. But for simplicity sake, here's the original.

The Get Up Kids
Thrice
Death Cab for Cutie
Saves the Day
Coheed and Cambria
MxPx
Further Seems Forever
Underoath
Armor for Sleep
Bayside
Name Taken
Mae
Something Corporate
Brand New
The Early November
Rx Bandits
System of a Down
The Mars Volta
The Postal Service
Motion City Soundtrack
The Used
Taking Back Sunday

Pretend to enjoy.

not a purse

2006-07-18T21:34:00.000-05:00

Please take note of the position of the bag. IF indeed this backpack were a "man purse" it would be placed underneath the arm. After closer observation you will notice that this "pack" is resting firmly against the back NOT under the arm. What is a backpack? A pack that rest on the back. Just like this.

I will defend George (that's his name) until the very end!!

Back from Cuba

2006-07-16T17:25:00.000-05:00

Amy and I just got back from canoe-ing in Cuba. Yep, you know what that means another weekend away from home. I haven't been home for a weekend in over a month!!

It's miserable here. Currently 95F (feels like 107) and 51% humidity.

Listening To: Death Cab for Cutie - A Lack of

Recent Album Purchases:
The New Amsterdams - Story Like a Scar
The Early November - The Mother, the Mechanic, the Path

I thought this was clever:

[postscript:] Cuba, MO not the country

41st post

2006-07-09T21:59:00.000-05:00

Amy and I just got back from Dubuque, IA visiting Amy's grandpa. He's in the hospital with pneumonia in his left lung. It wasn't looking good, so we made an emergency trip. I'm a bit worn out to say the least. I've logged over 4,600 miles the last 11 days. My body is worn out.

I finished Gutsy Faith. I don't know if you can expect a review or not. But my overall opinion of the book was good. I really enjoyed it. I'm hoping that I do more than just "enjoy" the book. I hope I practice what I agreed with in the book. I hope others do too. Most people pick up a book, read it, close it, say to themselves "hmm that was nice", and then never think about it again.

Alright I'm going to bed.

Listening to: Keane - Is It Any Wonder

Recent Album Purchases:
Rise Against - The Sufferer and the Witness
Dashboard Confessional - Dusk and Summer
Keane - Under the Iron Sea

Psalm 23

2006-07-04T20:16:00.000-05:00

I'm back from Seattle. Life was good while I was up there. I got to see family I hadn't seen in a while, some for over 3+ years. We even had a family reunion BBQ while we were there. I'd say the BBQ was the highlight of the trip. Here's why:

My grandpa is only mentally aware for a few short hours each day. The morning of the BBQ we went to check on him and things were not looking good for him. It was one of his roughest mornings. Then a couple hours later we went back to check on him, before we went the the reunion. He had perked up, and was doing good. So he was able to go the BBQ for an hour or so!!! It was awesome having him there, after all, he was the real reason why we were up there.

So that's why I had the best time at the reunion.

I also got to read my grandpa his favorite verse to him, Psalm 23. It was a pretty emotional experience.

Jonathan also drove up for a couple days. That was cool seeing him. So, props goes to JC for driving 7+ hours to hang out. We had some great times.

BTW the picture above is one I took from Snoqualmie Falls.

seattle

2006-06-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

I received a call from my mother last Wednesday (6/21) telling me that the doctors had given my grandpa 2 weeks to live. My grandpa is an amazing man of God, who's faith-in-action, has taught me many important life lessons. I had the opportunity to talk to him 2 weeks ago. During our conversation I felt compelled to tell him how much of an important role he played in my life, even though we were separated by thousands of miles. It was definitely a heart-to-heart conversation and I was glad to let him know that his "mission" on this planet was more than fulfilled. I am very VERY excited for him during this time. His declining health has given me a different outlook on death, something we (you and I) should one day talk about in person.

With that said, I will be going to Seattle this Wednesday for 5 days to see my Grandfather for the last time. Things are sure to be difficult while I'm up there, and especially when I leave. But as I mentioned earlier, I am very excited for him.

I am also VERY excited to go back to Seattle. Every time I go it's like a homecoming for me. I get to see family (which I love) and I have the feeling of returning home. Washington has always been my second home and I love returning to it any chance I get. And hopefully one day it will become my real home.

Please pray for Amy and I during this time as well. Because of this family emergency we had to put the traveling expenses on our "emergency" credit card (the one that was going to be paid off this month). That combined with some other financial issues, we aren't doing too well right now with the $$$. Pray for us, please.

Also, pray for Amy while I am gone. Because plane tickets are so expensive she is unable to go up with me. She wishes so much that she could come, but knows that it's not the smartest move right now. To my family, she sends her love.

As for me, I'm anxious.

Listening To: My fingers on the keyboard at 12:20am because I can't sleep, knowing that I'm going to be getting up in 4/half hours.

investments

2006-06-19T18:08:00.000-05:00

1. Today I made my first "investment" into my new "sport" I started 2+ months ago. For those who don't know I picked up running. I don't run for distance, I run for time. My goal is to run non-stop for an hour (I'm at 28mins this week). I still have a ways to go (no pun intended), but I'm almost half-way there. I run 4 days a week. So anyways, on to my investment. I count this as my first even though I bought shoes, I had them before I started running. Today, I bought running shorts. I was kind of embarrassed wearing them. I went with the 7" inseam instead of the 6", because I'm still trying to maintain some dignity, at least for a while. It was also 91 (feels like 93) degrees out, with 40% humidity.

2. I took the day off from work today to go the the Warped Tour (like I do every year). I didn't go.

3. We're playing Ultimate Frisbee tomorrow @work during lunch.

4. I installed MSN messenger on my system. I haven't had any instant messenger client on my computer since college. I also installed Trillian, but probably won't use it too much.

Listening to: Brand New - Okay I Believe You, But My Tommy Gun Don't

Shell Knob

2006-06-11T18:58:00.000-05:00

We just got back from Table Rock lake. We had some fun. It's a huge lake that only takes under 4 hours to get too. Totally worth it. We stayed at a campground that was only $10/night. And our campsite had lake access.

Our scuba experience sucked. It's been over a year since we've been and it showed. We were out of practice. I lost my expensive pair of goggles and snorkel. And the visibility sucked where we were at.

I did get to experience something that I've always wanted to do. I got to drive a 2004 Corvette with a 6-speed. And the environment was perfect, windy roads. The turns in a vette are a joke, it makes it seem like the road was straight, it handled so well. And ever gear seemed like it was first gear, it had so much power.

paying for nothing

2006-06-05T16:35:00.000-05:00

1. I got a parking ticket for parking a truck (which I don't own)
and a trailer (which I also don't own) in an area (clearly marked)
that was a designated no trailer parking area (retarded). Wow..so there's $107
I wasn't expecting  out-of-pocket.

2. My wife is awesome.

3. 39mpg

4. No Bible.

5. Amy and I moved our spare bedroom, appropriately labeled "Bobby's Room",
into the office. And moved the office to the other room. To do so, I had to take
down all my pictures. I don't know if I'll put them back up.

6. Stories spread fast, rumors faster.

7. I'm finally going scuba diving, it's been so long since I last dove.

8. The new Thursday album is only "okay".

9. Jazz loves the new LS dog park.

10. Hooray!!! You found the secret text!!

out the door

2006-05-26T17:29:00.000-05:00

I'm minutes away from leaving for Truman Lake for the weekend. We'll be cruisin' on a 2006 Yamaha SX230 High Output 320HP 23ft boat.

Life has been normal, and I'm bored with it (the normalness). But I'm told patience is key. Well we'll just see about that now won't we.

I've made a huge switch in how I handle my music library at home. I'm using WMP 11. Where as before I organized the folders myself and did all the sorting and file naming. But now I'm "trying" out letting WMP do most of the work for me. Watch out because this is only the Beta release and it's already an iTunes killer.

I've been watching my collection of Futurama Episodes lately...man, good good stuff.

NPH is hoping on the Podcasting bandwagon. That's neat.

Oh I received news that broke my heart last week. First some history: Honda produced the first Integra in 1985. And in 1986 it came to America under the Acura badge. Well in 2000 they renamed the Acura Integra to the Acura RSX. And now for the heart breaking: They announced they are ending production on the RSX!! That really sucks because I'd been planning to get one in 2009. I cried myself to sleep that night.

With Blink 182 in indefinite hiatus everyone's doing side projects. Tom DeLonge created a band, Angels and Airwaves. Their CD came out this week and I'm very impressed.

Crap!! Amy just got home, we're leaving now. Have a good Memorial Weekend all.

library for my birthday

2006-05-18T21:37:00.000-05:00

This was a much needed birthday present from my Dad. It's a CD cabinet...and it's awesome!! I finally have my CD's in alphabetical order. He (my dad) estimates it will hold around 650-700. And as you can see I'm almost halfway there. The CD's on the lower shelf are those I don't have cases for. I outgrew the first CD cabinet he made for me. There are a couple things that I want to do still. One is create a spreadsheet of all the CD's (I'm a nerd) and then second rip most, if not all, of them to MP3.

We have the A/C on and I'm still sweating. Not cool.

PENDULUMECA

2006-05-10T06:23:00.000-05:00

I've been playing this lately. It's my new 'Chicken and Eggs'. It's really simple, only involves one button. The idea is kind of like Tarzan/Spiderman swinging from place to place. Click and hold the left mouse button to throw the rope, release the button to let go of the rope. See how far you can travel. I haven't noticed a difference between the levels yet. Let me know if you notice a difference. Post your high scores.

Current High Score: 1976m

back

2006-05-08T16:47:00.000-05:00

Well we made it. It took us like 10.5 hours to get there and only 9 to get back. On the way there it rained most of the time, then snow, then once we got to Colorado Springs, it was crazy dense fog. Needless to say we got lost for about an hour. Oh yeah and we had to wake up our weekend host at 3am just to get directions...yeah that was fun.

Once we got up there and learned some of the main streets Amy and I did pretty well navigating. Both of us are severely directionally challenged. So for us we did good. And I was forced to learn how to use a map, seeing as how I somehow broke our GPS unit and had to leave it at home. Yeah, that sucks.

You remember how I told you we were super excited to go up to Pikes Peak. Well it turns out the road to drive up there was closed and to take the train was $30 a person. Forget that!! So we filled our time with: Seven Falls, Helen Hunt Falls, Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, Woodland Park, Chick-fil-A, Cadoba (sp?), and pretty pictures. The picture above is taken from Garden of the Gods. After 2,500 miles in the ol'Civic we were ready to be home. We had fun. See you later CO.

More Pictures:

another road trip

2006-05-04T12:28:00.000-05:00

Wish us luck!! Amy and I are leaving for Pikes Peak this afternoon. We'll be back on Sunday. We're going to take A LOT of pictures. We're both pretty excited!! Out.

i can't get past it

2006-05-01T21:42:00.000-05:00

Anyone seen the new Apple commercial about how Windows catches viruses and OS X doesn't? I tried to find it online but was unsuccessful. Anyway this came out today: Macs no longer immune to viruses, experts say. With all the hype about switching to OS X all the hackers out there are becoming interested too. Enjoy. And since Apple likes to disguise all the good computer stuff with that beautiful facade of wizards they call OS X, good luck figuring out how to get behind the scenes to see what's really wrong with you computer (it's running OS X!!! OH BURN!!). {Steps down from soap box} I'll try to keep the OS X stabs in the future to a minimum. The only thing I have against Apple is they market their products as THE only end all solution to everything. When the truth is there is NO one stop shop for the computer world.

This is inspirational. It's the lead singer of Anberlin. He's an amazing writer and this blog shows his struggles as a human. It really puts a face behind that Idol/Celebrity status we lay on people, showing us that they indeed are people too.

Amy and I are going to Pikes Peak this weekend. It'll be a fast trip...but good. I'm excited for the drive there. Not to mention we've got free accommodations in Colorado Springs. Can't beat it.

Video of the week.

I think next week, I'm going to make a post EVERY day. That's the plan anyways. The reason I don't post more than once a week is because I want time for people to respond. And I don't know how many of you would keep up if I updated more than once a week.

Steve and I had a discussion last week about fanny packs. And no matter what you say...fanny packs are not cool.
No matter what you put in them.

As many of you know I was on the cover of Holiness Today. Check it out:
Notice the computer I am holding is NOT a Apple. It is a Cherry. It may look like a Mac but rest assured it's not....dang it...busted. I know I know...I thought about saving this for a later post (one where I'm not bashing Macs) but you gotta love the irony. I think HT is trying to jump on the Mac bandwagon. I was forced to hold these products btw. In no way/shape/form am I endorsing them.

Done.

they make it too easy: cast me out now

2006-04-23T21:04:00.000-05:00

Just so you know this is me venting (with the encouragement of others) so the feelings I express now might not be as strong tomorrow.

I'm prepared to be cast outside the city gates for this one. Here we go:
Come on guys. You can do better than this. I know I'm not one to talk because none of the lyrics I write will ever be released. But what's the deal with the repetitive lyrics of our "worship" music. Holy holy holy cow! I know that sometimes artist are looking for that filler so they can reach the universal 3 minute 25 second mark, but geez come on.

I can't blame just the artist either. It's the leaders who drag it on too. How many times must we sing the chorus before you can fade the music out?

Let's take a look at some examples:

1. Trading My Sorrows -

And we say yes Lord yes Lord yes yes Lord Yes Lord yes Lord yes yes Lord Yes Lord yes Lord yes yes Lord Amen

It's not unusual for the worship leader to tack on a couple more choruses on this one.

2. Blessed Be Your Name -

Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your name
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be Your glorious name

In the original lyrics, "Blessed be your Name" is sung 20 times. And again it's
completely normal to sing the chorus 1 or 2 more times.

3. You Are My King -

Amazing love, how can it be?
that you, my king. would die for me
Amazing love, i know its true
its my joy to honor  you 
Amazing love how can it be? 
that my king would die for me
Amazing love i know its true
its my joy to honor you 
in all i do 
i honor you

This one is the mother of all repetitive choruses!!

Conclusion:

You're correct. I can't do any better if I were the worship leader.

You're also correct if you say that my lyrics suck, but at least I don't use filler.

No, I'm not going to try, I'm just an ideas man.

I write this only to inspire, because for me and at least 3 others the songs aren't "fun" to sing anymore.
I prefer a more intimate atmosphere. Just one guy with a guitar is enough for me.
For the worship leaders out there: If you now hate me, at least tell me face to face (or email to email) that way at least I'll know.

I applogize for all the formatting issues. The blogger editor isn't very friendly.

Your opinion counts

2006-04-18T17:25:00.000-05:00

Please respond:

Do you think God teases us? Does He say, "Well you would have had this, but you didn't do what I asked, so now I'm not going to give you what you had coming?" Does God still work like this?

(Example: God never letting Moses enter the promise land, but he got to see it.)

Sanford Major Accent Highlighting Marker

2006-04-11T06:34:00.000-05:00

I prefer to wait until I have something to talk about before posting. But that doesn't always work out. But still, I would like to post more often than this guy (sorry BV). And in order to do that, sometimes the post have to be less exciting. This is one of those post.

Life is going. Which is good. I'd rather it being going than anything else. I do find myself spending too much time with VM's and Halo Trial Edition. I was talking with Amy this past weekend. And I was telling her that I don't know why I spend hours upon hours building Linux VM's, but I do. It bugs me too. I wish I knew why I do that. Am I doing it so I don't get "out of the loop" with the latest technology? Or is it because I'm a geek and maybe this will tie into my future somehow? Probably both...I'm a geek, I've finally confirmed this as of last weekend when I spent the majority of the nice 70 degree weekend inside sitting in front of my computer.

I have a confession to make. Ever since it came out I wanted to see what all the fuss was about. So this past weekend I saw Brokeback Mountain. For those of you who don't know (yeah right) Brokeback Mountain is about a guy and a girl working on a ranch. They fall madly in love with each other and have wonderful kids and live happily ever after. No wait...that's not what it's about...reverse that...it's about 2 GUYS falling in love. Oh yes that's it, 2 guys. I'll save you my opinions. But I thought I'd see for myself what all the fuss was about since most of the people complaining didn't even bother seeing it. They prefer to label things before they get to know them. Don't we all.

Mac Users: By now I'm sure you've all heard about Apple's Boot Camp. I have one thing to say: It's about time. I'll admit Apple almost always wins the style/trendy award for their computer cases. But finally, I can match all that beauty on the outside with beauty on the inside (Windows XP). You might say, "Well yeah, but you'll ruin your notebook with security flaws if you boot XP on a Mac." Keep in mind the only reason why Windows is so "filled" with security flaws is because it's on 95% of the computers out there. So people pick on it. You'll see, as more and more people start shelling out the big bucks for their new Apple, hackers will start targeting them. OS X hacked under 30 minutes.

B...O...R...ing.

Sorry.

absent news; 12 hour days; goofy faces

2006-04-05T21:43:00.000-05:00

Check out this guy:

This could have been on the cover of Holiness Today. But because of the ol'school folklore, it got shot down for something else. The other prospect still looks really good but still....come on grumpies. Cheer up. Maybe it was to much of a stretch for a magazine put out by NazCorp. Maybe it belongs on the cover of Wired or something. Anywho it was done by a guy at NPH named Brandon Hill. Check him out (shameless plug). Tell him I sent ya, then he'll be like "Who's that?" It'll be sweet, trust me.

Amy and I were talking about similar situations happening at her work as well. People who are no longer "in the loop" about where 'the arts' are headed are the ones making the call. In Amy's situation the head hancho at her company doesn't even have a degree in any kind of Art field. How uncool is that? Brandon and I were talking about his (it was mostly me doing the talking, and when I say talking I mean emailing). And I came to the conclusion that IF I were to start a advertising company I'd let ideas float around and not get shot down immediately. The clients would decide (how crazy is that). A perfect idea in theory, probably not in practice. I'd name the company ScottLee is Awesome and You Can Be Too!! Or something like Lame-O Advertising. Who knows.

So Jazz (our dog) recently developed a Hot Spot under her ear. I took her to the vet and they gave her some magic powder. But she wouldn't stop itching it. So Amy got her a cone. Observe. She might look somewhat happy in this picture but she most definitely is NOT happy. She kept licking the sides of the cone like it was some sort of lollipop.

Check out GoogleIdol.

I've been playing a lot of raquetball. I like it a lot. And if any of YOU like to play. Call me up, if you want to feel good about your game. I'll play, but you have to at least let me feel like I had a chance.

Angie, bugged me about my little quiz in the previous post. Don't worry Angie they'll be more that will help clear things up. Xanga sucks.

The month of July has potential. Don't know why, just does.

Hey guys, check out Thessalonians....good stuff. That Paul's a good guy. Try reading in the NLT if you haven't yet.

I went to my first Kansas City Brigade game. It has potential. It's defiantly more of a show, with fireworks and stuff. Pretty neat.

This has been a long post with no life changing thoughts, just stuff. I guess that's good. I need to get to bed, I had a long day today.

Leave a comment, everyone's doing it.

postscript: Amy and Jazz say hello.

not dead: in more than one way

2006-03-26T19:47:00.000-06:00

Well, I'm here. Hmmm...life. Is it possible for life to be boring and yet exciting at the same time. I think of a song by Jack's mannequin, Dark Blue. There's a line in that song that seems to relate: "Have you ever been alone in a crowded room?" Maybe there is not connection there, but I tried. Sorry if you're not following / or I'm not making sense.

Today, I took off my furry helmet finally. So tomorrow I'll get to experience the notorious question: "Did you get a hair cut?" And I'll have to be polite to every single one of them. Although it might not happen at all. Last time I went to work after shaving my head no one said ANYTHING!! I think they just expected it, or they knew I was expecting them to say something.

I have a little quiz/riddle for you if you have some time. Here's a picture:
This is something I hope to witness in my lifetime. Maybe even have the pleasure of hearing some time real soon. And no...I'm not driving (though this has ALWAYS been a dream of mine). For this, I'm a spectator.

This might be another clue.

I know it's not really a riddle. And it's dumb.

God did some amazing stuff the week of 3/12. Constantly he was referring me to parts of scripture that related to things in my life. There was never one verse that He gave to me that didn't relate to a particular situation. You might ask "Well what happened the week of 3/19?". The week of 3/19 I wasn't seeking as strong as I was on 3/12. I took a break. But this week, I'm seeking answers again. For those of you who pray, pray.

I finally received my invitation to Google Pages. I'm messed with that a little. Pretty cool technology.

This is my latest addiction:

This post is lame.

hmm?

2006-03-18T12:53:00.000-06:00

What's the deal with not posting in a while?!? Honestly...get with it. Ol'fart.

going there:

2006-03-09T13:30:00.000-06:00

Amy and I are going to Defiance, OH this weekend. We're leaving Friday (3/10) and coming back Monday (3/13). Wish us luck. Give us a call on Friday or Monday, we'll be on the road for a while and will have some free time to talk.

- Scott

early exit: timing is everything

2006-02-27T05:49:00.000-06:00

As some of you may have noticed, yesterday I walked out of SS. And then only moments later pulled Amy out as well. I'm posting this for reassurance. My walking out of class yesterday had absolutely nothing to do with the lesson and what Ben was saying. As a matter of fact I wasn't/couldn't pay attention. For you see, I was being hounded. I was being bombarded by the Holy Spirit for something that couldn't wait any longer. That's all it was, God wanted my attention at that very moment and it couldn't wait just 15 more minutes until SS was over. It had to be dealt with right then and there.

So please, please, please don't think I walked out for any reason in relation to the topic on Sunday. As I said before I wasn't even paying attention. I was too busy trying to fend off what the Holy Spirit was telling me to do. Trying to write it off for a passing feeling that would eventually go away. But that didn't happen, it only got worse. I knew what it would look like if I walked out, but I also knew what would happen if I didn't. So I'll deal with the rumors that may come about as a result of my action, until people can learn the truth.

Thanks to all who checked up on Amy and I. We appreciate it so much and it's nice to know that we're loved and cared about.

shutdown for now

2006-02-22T21:55:00.000-06:00

I shutdown my home server until I get some time to work on it. I had someone try to hack into it today using fake IP's in Israel, The Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Great Britain, etc.. It was crazy. I just happened to check on my server while I was at work and I saw that someone was "listening" to my station in Germany. I tracked it down to multiple IP's that were fake. I don't think he/she actually got in, but they were pretty close. That's it I guess. Just thought some of you would like to know.

[picture]

2006-02-17T15:12:00.000-06:00

This is it.....all day long. This is where I do, whatever it is I do.

http://skotmxpx.no-ip.info

2006-02-12T19:17:00.000-06:00

It's been longer than I've wanted since I've posted. That's because there's not a lot going on. I'll let the nerd side of me take over for a second...

NERD STUFF:
After investing around 20+ hours into Ubuntu (Linux) I've decided I met most of my goals. I set up a web server, ftp server, telnet SSL server, GNUMP3d (for streaming MP3's) and a Slimserver (for my Roku Soundbridge). I had it working for the most part (all except the Slimserver). Now that I know I can do it, I'm calling it quits....for now. Because I have a perfectly good machine with a Windows XP license, I decided not to let that go to waste. So I made my HP box (I named the server 'emery') my FTP/HTTP/iTUNES/SHOUTcast server. This took maybe 5 hours to setup versus my 20+ I poured into the Linux box. In the future I'll probably still mess with my virtual Ubuntu box and get it configured just right, then I'll copy over those settings to a physical box. I've set up the FTP server for anonymous access but there aren't any files there yet but in the future I'll but music/pics/videos there for all you to see. And maybe if you ask I'll create an account for you to upload stuff, Scott Williams.

LIFE STUFF:
Life has been pretty normal. Amy and I are really enjoying our small group. We're both ready to move, but we don't know where. I'll be honest and say that I'm not giving God enough time to talk to me. It's like, "here God I have 5mins.....and go." Funny that it's not working and I'm getting frustrated. I'm enjoying reading people's blogs and hearing about the steps everyone is taking. I'm excited for them...but I'm jealous too. But it's because I'm not pursuing God with all I have. I know that's why stuff isn't happening I know it. But I don't know how to pursue God completely. It's different for everyone but I'd appreciate hearing some common things that people know work.

Comment on the nerd stuff and the life stuff.
Go visit this page and listen to my radio station (5 users max):
http://skotmxpx.no-ip.info

iTunes Gift Card

2006-01-30T13:10:00.000-06:00

Well, nothing crazy new going on. Just regular stuff. Amy and I have been putting in some overtime. She put in 21+ hours of overtime. I put in a 18hr day last Thursday and then had to be back at work at 6am!! I loved every second of it....please catch the sarcasm.

For those of you who know this kid:Please pray for him and his wife. He's in pursuit of his dream. And life is hard when your dream requires your full-time dedication and there is no $$ coming in.

Amy and I have been attending a small group going over the book Love and Respect by Emerson Eggerichs. Good stuff. We jumped in halfway through the book and are still enjoying it. I recommend it for all couples, young and old.

We also got new cell phones. And for the first month we get unlimited internet and text messages. So don't be surprised if you get something from us via the phone.

Wow...is that really all that's interesting in my life? That's pathetic.

Oh yeah about the subject line of this post. I was able to rescue some very critical data from an external hard drive. So in return I received a $15 iTunes Music Card. Thanks Brandon. Even though you might not know him. Go to his page and email him to congratulate him and his new fiancee.

That's all.

Listening To: Thrice - That Hideous Strength (there's a line in the song that I want to get tattooed on my forearm)

-Scott

I wouldn't want to come back:

2006-01-24T06:14:00.000-06:00

Cold Calculus Leads Cryonauts To Put Assets on Ice

I've heard of this before but it tends to be picking up in popularity. I honestly do not think that if technology ever does get to the point where it feels confident that it can bring someone back...it won't work. I believe in the soul leaving the body after a person dies. So here's how I picture it:

They pull the frozen body out of the fridge. Hook him up to all sorts of wires. Run their test. Inject him with magically fluid. And then...all of a sudden the body opens it's eyes...takes a huge breath....exhales...then collapses on the floor. Dead again. Everyone will panic and wonder what when wrong. But truth is a body can't exist without a soul. You can't freeze a soul in ice.

But let's just say that everything works out perfectly. They bring the guy back...he's rich...the worlds changed. Ok that's all fine and dandy. But as for me, I wouldn't want to come back. I'm already dying to get to heaven. And once I got a taste of it, no thank you...I'm staying.

D. Krizzle

2006-01-18T22:07:00.000-06:00

A friend of mine named Dan...who's an incredibly smart guy (seriously) wrote a parody of the 'Deep Thoughts' book but with a "Christian" twist. Here's one:

"One of Scott's main problems with "Christian music" isn't that performers have practically cut themselves off from the people they are supposed to be reaching in mainstream society—it's just that most
Christian music sounds like crap. "

Not a whole lot

2006-01-17T22:00:00.001-06:00

Nothing new really going on. Still using the Mac. Learning hotkeys and workarounds. I snuck a little Windows XP time in there on my notebook so I could pull some important files off of it.

Amy and I attended a 'couples' small group on Sunday that we enjoyed. The leader of the group was/is a mentor to my best friend Jonathan. So as a recommendation Amy and I talked with him a little about stuff that's going on in our lives right now. I can tell already that he's one amazing guy.

If there's anyone out there who's looking for a A & R rep...I'm your man. I've never done it before but I feel I could bring some new stuff to the table. Come on take a chance on a new inexperienced guy. What do you have to lose? Money....nahh I'll work for free. Or if there's anyone dreaming of starting a record company that's about the music not the $$ I'll be the guy to go get you coffee. Willing to relocate. (A&R rep is basically a talent scout for a record company)

Are you listening God?

New Best Friend

2006-01-13T05:58:00.000-06:00

Ok...got some crazy news. Well it's not crazy for you guys I suppose, mainly just me. So we all know that I'm working on a Linux box for a ftp/web server. Here's the good news. I got Ubuntu (Breezy Badger) running Apache and vsftp. The best part...it's a virtual machine running on Windows XP!! Everything worked great!! For those of you who don't know anything about virtual machines you should check into it. It's an amazing technology.

Here's the news: Now that I know I could do it (get a Linux server up and running) I'm going to give it up for a while. I've been investing toooooo much time into that project and I've been neglecting things I shouldn't.

Here's some more news: I've packed my own personal notebook (it's my 'baby') a Dell Inspiron 6000 in the closet. This was also occupying a lot of my time.

By doing these two things. I will really be forcing myself to find other things to occupy my time like (reading, hmmm maybe exercising, prayer, etc...) (TV is NOT and option).

You might ask yourself, "But how is a 'computer' guy going to keep up with the industry and keep up with subjects he's interested in?" Enter Amy's Apple Powerbook 17" notebook. She has agreed to let me start using it more as my main computer rather than just something I occasionaly worked on. By forcing this to become my main computer I'll keep my interest peaked because I'm always wanting to know more and more about Mac's. I just have to be carefull not to get too involved with it. That's where sharing it will come into play. Since I have to now share my main computer with someone else I won't get the time on it that I'd like/need to in order to come up with new projects. It all works out.

So that's what's going on in my life. Ok. Bye.

Linux Setup (not equal to) Easy

2006-01-08T20:53:00.000-06:00

I don't have any real new news. Life's been about the same. Amy and I are dealing with some pretty heavy God-related stuff right now, so if you're into that sort of thing you could pray for us.

===============
NEWS FOR NERDS:
===============

I've got Fedora Core 4 setup on an old Toshiba notebook of mine that I'm setting up a Apache web server and maybe a FTP server. What this means for you: I have some videos that I'd like to make available for download. And since nobody seems to want to host big files for free (and due to the fact that this site doesn't generate a lot of traffic) I can put those on my ol'laptop and host them. I'd also like to setup a music library that can be streamed.

Sorry I'm Late:

2006-01-03T06:49:00.000-06:00

Sorry about not posting for awhile. I guess I've been busy. But the stuff I've been busy with is stupid stuff that really shouldn't occupy my time (i.e. Linux). Oh well. The point is...I'm back.

Here's the letter I promised. I put it in PDF format and put it on my Yahoo briefcase.
1) Go here (http://briefcase.yahoo.com/skotmxpx@sbcglobal.net)
2) Click the 'BlogSpot' Folder
3) Click 'Rick's Letter'

I'll probably start putting long post in document format. I'll put a brief synopsis about the topic on the main post and then if you want to read on you can d/l the document.

2005-12-27T21:05:00.000-06:00

It's back to work for this guy. NPH graciously gave us an extra day off for the holiday (oops Christmas) season. Yeah that's right I'm coming off a 5 day weekend. Be jealous...be very jealous.

I got a letter from a friend of mine, I think I'm going to post it on here if he doesn't mind. I think all you guys would enjoy it. Expect it sometime this week. If not please don't hurt me a lot of you know where I live.

Dishwashing Holidays

2005-12-23T17:01:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas everyone. For this being Amy and I's second Christmas with each other you'd think we'd have the Family routines at least a little figured out. NO WAY!! Man this year was tough figuring out where to go for Christmas. We've learned it's impossible to make everyone happy. So sorry family members who won't be able to see us on Christmas day. Just remember Christmas is a holiday season so it's more than just one day. It doesn't mean we can't meet up the day after or before Christmas.

Listening To: Death Cab for Cutie (big surprise)

What is your favorite type of music?

2005-12-18T22:43:00.000-06:00

For me that is one of the toughest questions that anyone can ask. Actually it's a question I love/dread people asking. I love it because I get to share my opinion of great music. I'm scarred to death of it because I'm worried I might offend them with what I listen too or what I'll say about their favorite type of music. “Oh, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to tread on your shoes....what I really mean is Yes, I love Third Day too! Yippee, we're all happy!!”

So rather than ask what type of music you listen to or what type is your favorite (kind of the same question right?) would it be better to ask, What do you listen to? This is a nice open ended question that can be answered really simply or amazingly complex. Oh how I pray, that when I ask people what they listen to, that they don't respond back “I listen to Christian music.” OHHH!! It makes me cringe when someone says that. In a culture where movie stars can claim to be Christians but yet live, well, like they do. How can we say that there is such a thing as Christian music. (That doesn't really tie into my point...please read on)

Couple Questions:
Is music a person? Does music have a soul? Can music accept Jesus Christ as its personal savior? Does music have God given talents? Let's just for a moment pretend that saying that your a Christian means what it used too....that you choose Christ as your savior and live out daily a life that is determined by your faith. Ok, assuming that's the definition of Christian....I ask the question again, Does music have a soul? Please please please hear me when I say this, I know that there is soul in music. That's not what I'm arguing here. I'm simply asking, is music a person/thing that can become a Christian? If your answer is “well, technically no, but still” what does that tell you about what you might be listening to. Would that mean that what's playing on your iPod right now be it Stephen Curtis Chaplin or Third Day is on the same level as Korn. If music is not capable of being “saved” (which I believe is true) than that would make music...music. No matter where it came from it's music. I'm not meaning to bash your favorite “Christian” artist. I'm just wondering what their selling and why they sell it that way.

You might argue then....well the music I listen to isn't Christian per say...but it's uplifting. I would then ask you what's uplifting? Is a song about how Christ died on the cross for our sins any better than a Nine Inch Nails song that talks of a teenager who was about to commit suicide but didn't go through with it because of his love for his girlfriend? While most of us would agree that a song about Christ shedding his blood is inspiring. I would also agree with the other end of the spectrum. I know of a song by a very popular group (GC) that many...MANY kids accredit that song to saving their life. Literally those kids were contemplating suicide up until they heard a song from a group whose lyricist had gone through the same stuff they deal with everyday and decided its not worth killing yourself for. No matter how big the problems your facing, it's never worth killing yourself, life goes on. It will get better. So which song is more uplifting?

It's so strange...the music I listen to which is by your definition non-Christian is more inspiring to me than anything I've heard at church or on my way to work on the local “Christian” radio station. I don't know why that is. I give all music the chance to inspire me (except country music, songs about tractors, cow-girls, pickup trucks, and mud slinging just don't do it for me I guess).

Why is that? What causes emotions to stir with the music we listen to? I read a quote by a guy named John Whitney from the group The Blood Brothers...who asked “Why is it that older people aren't supposed to like abrasive, screechy, Blood Brothers music, and young people aren't supposed to like Bach. It's all music; it all carries emotion.” (I don't recommend listening to The Blood Brothers right off that bat, it's something you should work your way up to) I agree with John totally. Music is written with the heart putting it's thoughts on paper. Sometimes that heart chooses to use the brain as a filter, sometimes not.

By segregating ourselves to only defined “Christian” music we are doing what we've always done best. Making outcast. We're separating ourselves from society even more than we already do. What's next, Christian only television. Oh wait that's already in production. Come on guys expand your world view. Check out what else might be out there.

If you like lighter acoustical type “Christian” music...guess what there's other stuff out there just like it that doesn't reside on a Christian record label. If you like the harder “Christian” music...boy are you in luck. There's plenty of that. Try out anything you can get your hands on. If you don't like it...move on. It's simple.

There is a difference between being a “Christian band” and being a Christian in a band.

Sorry for the long post...well kind of.

- scott.

EDIT: I guess I just don't like using Christian as a selling point. The whole idea of Christian marketing is kind of sketchy.

Sandsational Sand Sculpting

2005-12-18T22:25:00.000-06:00

Check this out.
Some of the coolest Sand sculptures ever.
http://www.sandsational.com/sandsationalgallery.html#cool

Chicken and Eggs

2005-12-15T12:54:00.000-06:00

Dude...you have to play this game. It's so fun!! Beat my score...so far my high score is 143.

Chicken and Eggs

Edit: Now 219

Get This:

2005-12-14T21:17:00.000-06:00

Is this the start of something. For those of you who know my dreams you could possibly see this as a beginning to something. I choose to keep high hopes for once. But here's the news:

We're having an Advent service at church and I've been asked to help out singing. If all goes as planned it will be me and two other really good girls singing. Isn't that crazy!! Me singing...who would have thunk. (P.S. I don't care if 'thunk' isn't a word) I'll let you know how it goes.

Here's what we're (I'm) singing:
Be Thou My Vision
Child of God (Great Song)
Oh Holy Night
Joyful Joyful
O Come, O Come Emanuel

Back....

2005-12-13T22:07:00.000-06:00

Well....We're back. Our totally air time on the way back was only about 4 hours. That's pretty good...we even had a layover in Las Vegas. Sorry...I didn't see Danny Ocean or visit any of Terry Benedicts casinos. But I did see CSI: Las Vegas shirts at the airport. That was pretty nifty. Amy and I had a blast in Bend. We'll be back.

Oh, btw...Snow Mobiles are a lot more fun than they look. Did you know those things can get up to over 120mph!! I didn't quite push mine that fast. I did get up to 80 though. 80 on the snow is so scary. These things had so much torque...I'd almost bet that it'd take a Mustang. I mean they were 700cc. Pretty incredible stuff.

I've been checking out some pretty cool blogs lately you should too:
http://www.jeffedmondson.blogspot.com/
http://mattslawson.blogspot.com/
http://www.bhilldesign.com/blog/

Flying Away

2005-12-09T12:07:00.000-06:00

Amy and I are going to Bend, OR this weekend. To see Jonathan and Sandy. We're pretty stinkin excited. Just thought you'd like to know...you know all the 5 people who have seen this site.

Wizards of Winter

2005-12-02T23:08:00.000-06:00

For those of you who haven't yet seen this video...it's amazing. Definitely better than any local "Christmas in the Park" crap.

Wizards of Winter

Here's a link to the guy's site:
http://www.wonderlandchristmas.com/

Good luck buddy....

2005-12-02T22:39:00.000-06:00

I wish this guy the best of luck. I love paperclip.
http://oneredpaperclip.blogspot.com/2005/07/about-one-red-paperclip.html

2005-12-01T18:40:00.000-06:00

Say hello to Jazz.