Flatus Game

Who comes up with this stuff? This game is sick, but hysterical! It's not for the fart...eeerrr...faint of heart. Use it for your next middle school or high school guy's small group time.

Hide the Fart

High Score: 20030

(bu to Brian and Andy for the game)

Whack Back

Well, after three years of pain, I've finally begun seeking medical attention and relief for my back. It started with a visit to a chiropractor (hoping is was a simple alignment issue), but upon x-ray, the chiropractor says to me, "You better get further diagnosis from your doctor." So I made an appointment and went to the doctor yesterday. After the exam, he wanted me to get an MRI done that day because "reasonable amount of concern" of something more serious. I wish I could post the pics on the blog so you could see it, but my lower back looks jacked even to me...and I'm not even a doctor (just related to them).

The technician sent my MRI off to my doc. I go back to my doctor in two weeks for blood work. A week after that, I am back for the diagnosis and next steps. So who knows. I'd appreciate your prayers. I'd like to be rid of the pain because pain sucks, especially in the back. I'd like to be able to play on the floor with Sarah and Parker for more than 5 minutes without having to stop to go lay down.

So that's it. I'll keep you posted.

Good Check. Bad Check.

"Man tries to cash $50K check from God"

Why didn't I think of this? I could have been raking in some serious jack long ago!

Reminds me of the line from U2's Rattle and Hum where Bono says during the song "Silver and God", "Well, my God ain't short of cash."

Got Friends

Watching all that goes on in the Middle East is a bit mind boggling. I totally support our troops and what they are doing in the Iraq to curtail the violence and promote peace and rebuilding. I totally support Bush and our governments position to lay down boundaries and time tables for the new Iraqi government to take full control over their own destiny.

But having said that, there is still a ton of confusion on my part one because of the disconnect I have with the whole WMD thing, little to no apparent progress on stability, and the overall ignorance I have about imposing western philosophy on a middle-eastern culture. And with that being said, I've taken some time to pick the brain of a friend of mine at work. He's a great guy from Jordan who is thoroughly middle eastern and a saturated American (dual citizenship here in the States and Jordan). This guy is smart and fun and has a wonderful perspective on all the chaos.

We were talking today and watching CNN today in the break room. He said something to me today that really got me thinking. He said that we as Americans and the rest of the world should have an all or nothing mentality to the war. Either send a million troops (not just 140,000) into the region or don't send any at all. He says we act like we have no idea how deep the hatred and strife goes between Islamic sects, leaders and even families. It's like putting a band aid over an amputation to stop the bleeding. We'll never get it to stop.

Interesting. This is coming from my friend who loves America, but love his roots and gets what's at the heart of middle eastern culture, religion and politics. The bummer is that I am not any clearer on my "war in Iraq" views (other than bring Osama and al-Qaida!). But I do know this, it's great to pursue friendships with those of other faiths, religions, and cultures. It expands my worldview and grows my faith in Christ as I seek to be a genuine friend who seeks to understand and love others.

I am so thankful to God for this friendship. It's based around work, but I know if he didn't live nearly 45 minutes from my house that we'd have he and his wife over. I'm thankful, too, that my friend makes me think outside me American box. He give me a glimpse into the thoughts and feelings of those that "get" the inside stuff that is happening over there.

Just thought I'd share. It's been on my mind most of the day.

Influences

How would you share with others about those who have influenced your life? How would you communicate it? I'm know a few of the people that I'd put, but not sure I'd know how to tell that story.

Check out this video. Creativity. Talent. And some serious dedication. Too cool.

Here is what the artist wrote about the experience and project:

30 different people that influenced my life were painted one on top of another on my torso. I either painted a picture of the person or an object that represents the person.

To see photos of the work and some brief details about a few check it out at.
www.philinthecircle.com/influe nce

Music is by Elephine. Check 'em out at www.myspace.com/elephine
They Rock!

Many people are asking about Hitler and how he could be an influence. He has had an impact on the entire world and changed how society deals with hate. Obviously he is not a influence in a positive way except for the positive changes that have occured to society since his existence.

People are also wondering how long it took. I spent 20 hours painting and I had the piece on me for about 30 hours. I slept with it on and it was aweful!

Enjoy!

Rescue Me

What is it about a rescue story that sucks me in everytime?

Have you been following the story on Mt. Hood? Click this link to read about it. So cool. Is there anything more captivating that watching and waiting to see if the team will find the person or group of people lost or stuck somewhere on a mountain or out in the wilderness? I dare say - no. Is there anything more exciting when the lost or stuck are found or rescued? Is there anything more heartbreaking when the search is called off - no one found. Or when found, the person(s) being searched for are found dead, are you like me going - that is so sad?

I feel like my story - in life and over the last year and half - is simply that - a rescue story. One filled with hope, discouragement, pain, courage, wandering, and discovery. I watch this story on Mt. Hood (or any other search and rescue story taking place on Rainer, Denali, or Everest) and can't help but identify with all parties involved - recuee (real word?) and rescuer.

I wonder about my wanderings. I wonder if I will find a way out. I wonder who will be there to help me get home. I wonder how my "lostness" affects those around me or missing me? Kelly? Sarah and Parker? Family? Friends? I wonder if anyone really notices that I'm not "there" - that somehow, all of me is not present and attending to the present?

I can't help but think, too, about the rescuers? Who is doing everything they can forge through the wilderness and against the elements the I or others might put in their way? How will they get to me? How will I find them? I can't help but think about the courage it takes to be a rescuer. It must be hell sometimes to fight those things that hinder their progress in pursuit of love, compassion, and grace. There is also a stubborness that comes along with being a rescuer. You know, this idea, that says, "F@#% you. Nothing is preventing me from getting to this guy." You gott a love and admire those folks. Talk about heroes!

I also find myself feeling, that even in the midst of feeling the need to be rescued, I am also called to be a rescuer. I can think of a number of relationships and situations where I might be able to come along side, listen, maybe help, but mainly love others through their time "on the mountain". But it's tough. My proverbial shit gets in the way. How hard do I push? How hard can I pursue? Do I have what it takes to help? Skills? Diligence? Courage? Time? Energy? "Want to"?

I am so thankful for the real life, present day stories of rescue that engage my heart and head to think about such things. I am thank for the real life, historical rescue stories found in the Scriptures (Israel, Joseph, the Disciples, Paul and all the poor/blind/oppressed/marginalized) and throughout the history of the Church. They give me hope. The give me a glimps into my own soul - how needy I really am. And more importantly the give me a view into the heart of our God, my Savior...He who is here, alongside, pushing, pulling, holding and most of the time carrying me through it all. Wow. Pretty stinkin' cool.

So what about your rescue story or one that you are apart of? How's it going? How you doing? What's God up to?

I'll leave you with another link to the lyrics to "Rescue Me" by The Alarm. Good song. Great band.

Snowball Games

For all you stuck in the snow and looking to take out that pent up aggression, here is the ulitmate snowball fighting game. For all you in warmer climates and looking for some virtual wintery fun, I have your answer: Snowball Wars! For all of you looking for cheep forms of therapy that will help you heal from those awful middle school bullies, your time is now! Have fun taking out those bullies.

Snowball Warfare Take out the bad guys with snowballs, before they take you out.

Play this free game now!!

Here is another one snowball game that is just for the fun hurling those little white frozen spherical objects.

Snowfight Destroy all the snowmen and avoid the other kids.

Play this free game now!!

Railroad Game

One of my favorite websites introduced to me by my nephew, Cooper, is Miniclip. I played this game on there the other day. Kinda fun. Tons of explosions and heavy gunfire.

Rails of War Guide your War Train into battle and destroy the enemy.

Play this free game now!!

Snow Day

What a snow day! Almost 15" in 24 hours with more trickling in at the moment. It's nothing like New York had over the last week that is for sure, but it was a dumping none the less. Shoveled the driveway twice (first time with my snow bunny by my side. Kelly can shovel some serious snow!). I'll have to shovel some more in the morning due to the snow that is still falling and the drifting that is taking place. My back is not looking for to it.

Kids had a great time, too. Climbed the mountain of snow that is Mt. Kensington (snow from this time around and last time that hasn't been able to melt). Went sledding in a laundry basket. Pulled out the tri-runner snow mobile (otherwise known as a tricycle). And of course laid out the traditional snow angels. It really is fun watching Sarah and Parker find this white stuff pretty magical. Though they don't last long given the work it takes to tramp through this stuff (it's deep for those little legs!) and the cold. Freakin' A, I don't last long either!

Here are some pics...Enjoy!

First Mt. Kensington (K3) then Mt. Everest!

I've fallen and I can't get up.

Sweet path, Dad.

Parker's first snow ATV. Again, sweet.

Parker's first snow ATV lawsuit.

It's Not Easy Bein' Green

Kermit the Frog had it right or is it left? Environmentalism is one of those hot button issues not only in the world of politics, but also in the pulpits of the Church. And I'll be the first to tell you a couple of things about me: 1. I am environmentally irresponsible, but wanting to change my heart and ways. 2. This is an incredibly complex issue with lots of science and data...neither of which I am very good at so I rely on other people's knowledge to inform my thinking. 3. I am trying to work my way through this issue so as to be theologically, environmentally, and economically responsible.

With all that being said...I was bumping around some random blogs when I came across this blog post and subsequent link on environmentalism. Now what's interesting is it's from Penn and Teller (the magicians/comedians). I thought the slant was going to lean one particular way and was surprised when it didn't. Take a look at the video, but only if you have 30 minutes. It's that long, but worth it - informative and entertaining. It's from their Showtime show, "Bullshit". It's very interesting and well worth your time.



(for some reason the video is not working. the person who had it on google may have had to take it down b/c of Showtime and copyright reasons. I haven't been able to find it anywhere else so that would be a bummer. Hopefully it'll start working so by some act of technomagic!)

God Doesn't Care

That's right. God doesn't care. I've come to that grey realization over the last few months. Now, before you go bonkers and think I've chucked my faith, let me explain myself.

I am huge believer in the truth that God cares for me. I see it throughout my life, the life of others, history, and the Scriptures. Heck, Peter himself comes right out and states, "Cast all your anxiety on him (God) because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7. I've read it. I've heard it. I've experienced it. I've seen that same reality in so many other's lives. God cares for me by loving me, dying for me, disciplining me, providing for me, using me, and simply being near me.

But what I think God doesn't care about is what I do with my life. Oh, I believe that God cares that I live a life of worship, mission, love, justice, hope, and faith. Again, time after time (cue Cindi Lauper tune here) throughout Scripture, in the lives of people, and in my own experience, God shares with the world and His people how longs for us to live out these and other Kingdom values. But as it specifically relates to me, right here and right now (cue Van Halen song), I don't believe God cares if I do ministry in a church or in the marketplace.

I'm coming to grips with the fact that maybe God simply called me to work with kids whether that be in the Church, school, or some other organizational institution. Maybe the context isn't the issue (one that has been a hangup for me b/c of my deep love for the Church) so much as the content with which I work - kids. That is hard to deal with as I've shared before. But this is now the leading I follow: to pursue helping and loving kids in the educational arena. Though I may find myself someday back in the lives of kids and families in a church setting, right now God doesn't care. What he cares about is me making wise choices that are motivated by love with the purpose of serving others all for His glory.

Jesus,

Thanks for not "caring". Thanks for the space and wiggle room in this grey area to follow you and be me. I'm glad you are in it with me. Where would I be without you here? You have provided a wonderful a wonderful wife, some seriously great family and friends, and your gracious and insightful Holy Spirit to push and pull me through some unclear times. You are simply beautiful and incredible. I want to worship you with my life.

Amen

Fun with Flashes

Here are a few pics from Dudes Night Out - The Ride Home. It's really a testimony to the fun grown men (me in particular) have reliving their junior high years. Enjoy the art and beauty.

For the Love of Bowling

A few weeks back, the guys in the small group I'm in got together for a little dude bonding. We decided to head to Pinheads for brews and bowling. We had a great time and got some serious players who may not be ready for the PBA, but maybe a tryout for The Big Lebowski 2.

The Lanes.

The Lineup.

The Choice.

The Score (my team won: 329 vs. 328).

The Dudes (minus Craig who is on IR with bowlers elbow).

Are you a Web-headed Wallcrawler?

From The Electric Company to the Saturday morning cartoons and from comic books to the big screen, I've always been a big fan of Spiderman. And if I were a superhero, that's who I'd be according to this online quiz I took. Here are my results:

You are Spider-Man

Spider-Man 60% The Flash 55% Green Lantern 55% Superman 50% Robin 47% Iron Man 45% Catwoman 35% Supergirl 30% Hulk 30% Batman 25% Wonder Woman 20%

You are intelligent, witty, a bit geeky and have great power and responsibility.

Click here to take the Superhero Personality Test

(bu to Marko)

Super Bowl Ads

If you are looking for a recap or missed any of the Super Bowl ads, click here to view them all. Here is one guy's take on his Top Ten Super Bowl ads. Here is my top of 1 of 1:

World Champions!

The monkey is dead. The defensive turnaround is complete. The Indianapolis Colts are world champs! It's pretty cool. The town is doing it's best to go nuts in sub zero weather and I couldn't be more excited for this place. Congrats to Dungy, Manning and the whole organizations. You can click here, here, here, here, and here for more coverage of Super Bowl XLI and the Colts win.

Final score:

Colts 29 Bears 17 (I wasn't too far off)

Calling My Shot

The time is now to call my shot. Colts. Bears. Offense sells tickets. Defense wins championships.
And shocker of all shockers...I'm going with the Colts, baby!

Everything on paper says take the Bears: Great defense, Huge special teams, and Stud running game. That's the prescription for a championship right there. But something in my guts says that this is the time for Dungy's defense and Manning's offense to shine.

In the playoffs, they shut down two great run teams (B-more/Lewis and KC/Johnson) and a diverse and balanced offensive system (NE). Manning started to turn on that switch in the second half of the NE game when they posted big numbers against the THIRD best defense in the NFL. And then there is the X factor - destiny. I just sense that it's the Colt's time. Nothing statistical, magical or galactical about it. Call it my gut (or indigestion), but I sense that this is a hungry bunch after getting close so many times.

So here it goes...

Colts 30 Bears 24

Go Colts!

Seeking Normal

Most of the time, I'm not seeking normal in my life. I don't want a "normal" life. I don't want to be a normal follower of Jesus, husband, dad, or friend. Most of the time, I'm trying to push myself to be abnormal (for the extraordinary and not wierd, I hope) in those areas. That's a good thing.

But lately, I've been longning for normal, and I've found it this Saturday. I'm home....not working. I'm "normally" at work on Saturday, but I get a chance to taste a bit of normal by being with my family today. That's pretty cool.

It's funny the things that make us feel normal. Maybe is a word from friend during tough season. Maybe it's a meal from your home town or country depending on where you live. Maybe it's feeling better after a seson of being sick. The list could go on and on. Today for me, however, it's simply having a Saturday off and for a brief 24 hour period, feeling, well, normal.

I'm curious. What are the things that make you feel normal?