There are two things that when I see or hear I just shake my head. I don't even try to figure out why they bug me. They don't bug me to the point of me losing sleep or anything, they just bug me. They might seem a bit trite but I wish I didn't have to see or hear them.
Firstly, do people not really know which side of the 'N' goes first? I see these backward 'N's all over the place. Mostly I think some wiseguy put it up that way to bug those of us who notice, or people just arent' paying attention when they put those letters up, but then there is the restaurant I pass going to work that had a sign made that way. I have not yet stopped at one of these places or called to see if I am the only one who noticed. Like I said it doesn't bother me for very long, but I have to wonder if the business owner really wants the 'N' backwards on his sign.
Secondly, is it just me or is everyone on TV and the radio saying the date in an obnoxious way? I was not born in the year one thousand nine hundred sixty and nine, Columbus didn't sail the ocean blue in one thousand four hundred ninety and tw0, but this is the year two thousand and seven and the Buckeyes had an unbelievable two thousand and six regular season. I don't know if this bothers anyone else but I was always taught that you only say and when you are using decimals and it refers to what comes after the decimal i.e., I have $4.25 (four dollars and twenty-five cents.)
These are just two observations that I have had lately. Are there any other things that bug anyone else, nuisances of daily life? I am not looking for things that would cause you to seek professional counseling, just goofy things we see everyday. Do I need counseling about these two observations? I know I might need it for some other things but what about these?
I am thankful I know how to make a capital 'N' the right way and that I don't say and when I say the year.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Levi's Homeschool Day
Jodi was in Dallas, Texas from Sunday to Wednesday this week. My plan on Wed was to get Anna Clair on the bus, get Levi to preschool and then spend the 2 hours in the library getting caught up on some paperwork. Well, the 1/2 inch of snow delayed school for 2 hours so Levi was out for the day. Plan B: do whatever Levi wanted or watch my blood pressure soar when trying to get paperwork done at the kitchen table while dodging a plethora of Star Wars ships or army tanks.
I say Levi's homeschool day because as I reflect on a wonderful day spent with my son, I recall some educational moments. We have a game table in the basement (5 games in all) but Levi is fond of the pool table. You can learn about geometry in pool (angles, shapes, etc.) With the table warped already those lessons were difficult for a 5-year old to understand. We reviewed counting with a little 9-ball tournament. We learned patterns (stripes/solids). Levi likes the solids even when he breaks and holes 2 stripes. In pool we also studied 'english'. That seems to be a hard lesson for him to learn but we will keep trying.
Later in the morning we had math class. I was going up stairs to get ready and was sidetracked by a phone call. Before getting in the shower, I went back downstairs and caught Levi almost with his hand in the cookie jar. He was chewing on something resembling a cud. I asked him what he was eating and he kind of smiled (black teeth) and said "An oreo." After swallowing 2 more times to clear his oral cavity he added proudly, "I had two of them." The admonition he received was, "No more!" The math lesson comes in when I came back downstairs and placed Levi on my lap and smelled peanut butter. I asked him if he had eaten a Reese cup. He said yes. An hour later I went to throw something away and noticed a sea of orange wrappers in the trash. A word problem: "Levi, how many Reese cups did you have?" Typical child answer: "Count the wrappers." Follow up question: "Levi, you ate 4 Reese cups and 2 oreos?" Answer demonstrating proficiency in math: "Yes, that's 6 isn't it."
Result: dismiss class for the rest of the day and play Uno.
It was fantastic to get to spend the day with Levi alone, something not usually done. Special times like those don't happen as frequently as I would like them to. When they do happen, with Anna Clair or Levi, they are treasured. Too often we get so busy with things that are just urgent and we neglect the important things.
All three of us are thankful that Jodi returned home safe and sound Wednesday evening. While she was away, it felt as if part of us was also away, I guess it was. There was an incompleteness about our life. We feel truly blessed to have the Momma we have and wouldn't trade her for anything. My goal is to demonstrate for Anna Clair and Levi and teach them to cherish Jodi and be grateful she cares enough about them to make them mind. I think they are starting to get a glimpse of how wonderful she is. May we never have to make it without her.
I am thankful for days of play with my kids, special times alone with each of them to share fun. I am thankful for my family and the blessings they bring me every day.
I say Levi's homeschool day because as I reflect on a wonderful day spent with my son, I recall some educational moments. We have a game table in the basement (5 games in all) but Levi is fond of the pool table. You can learn about geometry in pool (angles, shapes, etc.) With the table warped already those lessons were difficult for a 5-year old to understand. We reviewed counting with a little 9-ball tournament. We learned patterns (stripes/solids). Levi likes the solids even when he breaks and holes 2 stripes. In pool we also studied 'english'. That seems to be a hard lesson for him to learn but we will keep trying.
Later in the morning we had math class. I was going up stairs to get ready and was sidetracked by a phone call. Before getting in the shower, I went back downstairs and caught Levi almost with his hand in the cookie jar. He was chewing on something resembling a cud. I asked him what he was eating and he kind of smiled (black teeth) and said "An oreo." After swallowing 2 more times to clear his oral cavity he added proudly, "I had two of them." The admonition he received was, "No more!" The math lesson comes in when I came back downstairs and placed Levi on my lap and smelled peanut butter. I asked him if he had eaten a Reese cup. He said yes. An hour later I went to throw something away and noticed a sea of orange wrappers in the trash. A word problem: "Levi, how many Reese cups did you have?" Typical child answer: "Count the wrappers." Follow up question: "Levi, you ate 4 Reese cups and 2 oreos?" Answer demonstrating proficiency in math: "Yes, that's 6 isn't it."
Result: dismiss class for the rest of the day and play Uno.
It was fantastic to get to spend the day with Levi alone, something not usually done. Special times like those don't happen as frequently as I would like them to. When they do happen, with Anna Clair or Levi, they are treasured. Too often we get so busy with things that are just urgent and we neglect the important things.
All three of us are thankful that Jodi returned home safe and sound Wednesday evening. While she was away, it felt as if part of us was also away, I guess it was. There was an incompleteness about our life. We feel truly blessed to have the Momma we have and wouldn't trade her for anything. My goal is to demonstrate for Anna Clair and Levi and teach them to cherish Jodi and be grateful she cares enough about them to make them mind. I think they are starting to get a glimpse of how wonderful she is. May we never have to make it without her.
I am thankful for days of play with my kids, special times alone with each of them to share fun. I am thankful for my family and the blessings they bring me every day.
Friday, January 19, 2007
The Oatmeal Bowl
I have been eating more oatmeal since my cholesterol came back high a few months ago. I usually eat 2 packs at a time and instead of measuring 2/3 cup of milk twice, I measured it once and drew a line on the plastic bowl. One recent morning, Anna Clair asked me what the line was for on the bowl. I explained to her that it was the correct measurement for the milk for two packs of oatmeal. Drawing the line on the bowl was so that I could remember how much milk to add; I wouldn't need to guess. She seemed to understand somewhat.
I began to wonder about a spiritual application from something so ordinary to me. I am reminded of the instruction Moses offers in Deuteronomy 6. He begins by giving the command to fear God and obey His instructions. In verse 5 Moses reminds them to love God completely. Is there any other way? Can we love God partially? Moses continues the admonition to make the statutes and commands of God their life. Daily observance of who God is and visual reminders of His great love before our children provide needed guidance. Moses then warns of the consequences of forgetting God. Observing God's goodness, greatness, kindness, mercy, grace, etc. is right and good in His sight according to Moses.
In verse 20 Moses gives the reason we should recognize God as such and the importance of nurturing our children in His ways. When the children ask why, what, how, we should tell them of our own deliverance at His hand. Our response to His character in our own life causes our recognition and obedience. Verse 25 says that this kind of living will be righteousness for us.
Too many times today I hear of people or talk to people who are questioning the lessons and doctrine they learned as a child. Good people rooted in the truth of the Bible are now doubting the truth. Culture is a powerful tool Satan uses to deceive us. I do believe that questioning what we believe and have been taught is good. I would advocate though that when one questions, sincerely seeks what the Bible says (not culture), and honestly asks for God's wisdom, the Bible will confirm what they believe. Proverbs 22:28 says it well, "Do not remove the ancient landmark which your fathers have set."
If Christians today would seek God, His way, and pattern their life after Jesus...what a thought! Where would that thinking and action take us? I pray for the guidance needed to teach my children of the ancient landmarks set down. I pray for the wisdom and insight to tell them the why, what, and how. I pray for their faith to develop into a trusting faith and one that seeks what pleases God and not themselves.
I am thankful for grandparents and family who provide a constant example to me and to my kids. May we, together, weather the storms.
I began to wonder about a spiritual application from something so ordinary to me. I am reminded of the instruction Moses offers in Deuteronomy 6. He begins by giving the command to fear God and obey His instructions. In verse 5 Moses reminds them to love God completely. Is there any other way? Can we love God partially? Moses continues the admonition to make the statutes and commands of God their life. Daily observance of who God is and visual reminders of His great love before our children provide needed guidance. Moses then warns of the consequences of forgetting God. Observing God's goodness, greatness, kindness, mercy, grace, etc. is right and good in His sight according to Moses.
In verse 20 Moses gives the reason we should recognize God as such and the importance of nurturing our children in His ways. When the children ask why, what, how, we should tell them of our own deliverance at His hand. Our response to His character in our own life causes our recognition and obedience. Verse 25 says that this kind of living will be righteousness for us.
Too many times today I hear of people or talk to people who are questioning the lessons and doctrine they learned as a child. Good people rooted in the truth of the Bible are now doubting the truth. Culture is a powerful tool Satan uses to deceive us. I do believe that questioning what we believe and have been taught is good. I would advocate though that when one questions, sincerely seeks what the Bible says (not culture), and honestly asks for God's wisdom, the Bible will confirm what they believe. Proverbs 22:28 says it well, "Do not remove the ancient landmark which your fathers have set."
If Christians today would seek God, His way, and pattern their life after Jesus...what a thought! Where would that thinking and action take us? I pray for the guidance needed to teach my children of the ancient landmarks set down. I pray for the wisdom and insight to tell them the why, what, and how. I pray for their faith to develop into a trusting faith and one that seeks what pleases God and not themselves.
I am thankful for grandparents and family who provide a constant example to me and to my kids. May we, together, weather the storms.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
Cal & Tony
It was refreshing to hear that both Ripkin and Gwynn are entering the HOF with nearly 100% of the votes. I believe they both would be unanimous if not for the stupidity of a couple of voters who refuse to vote for anyone who played in the "Steroid Era". I think these two players are the end of a breed. They embody the purity of the game of baseball as it was in my childhood memories. When I reflect on the game of baseball and how I saw it as a child, I don't see any of the business aspects. I see a game. I don't see punks and thugs who seem to care only about how much money they can get a team to pay them (whether or not they are worth it). I don't see money-grubbing owners soaking the fans. I see a game. What a fantastic game it was and in some ways, I guess, still is.
I don't know for sure but I think both Ripkin and Gwynn entered the league in the same year, somewhere around 1979. I have baseball cards of both, one is Ripkin's future stars card and the other is Gwynn's rookie or second year. Both of these players are remembered and placed in the HOF primarily for their "on-the-field" production. Ripkin, the Iron Man, demolishing a record for consecutive games played. I heard a stat the other day that he played 501 straight games after breaking the record, which has not even come close to being touched. Gwynn was a perenniel candidate for the NL batting title, posting a .300+ career average. He hit .350 for a few years straight.
As great as their numbers are and for the most part, those criteria gain you the bronze bust in Cooperstown, I don't recall the numbers. I remember that without a doubt, Cal would be wearing Oriole orange and Tony would be wearing the Padre brown. If there were two teams you wouldn't want to play for it may have been those two in the 80's if only for the uniforms they were forced to wear. (The White Sox and their capri pants may have been the worst!) I am sure with their talent, either would have had ample opportunity to demand a trade to a better team and hopefully win. I know both organizations had some decent seasons, but they were never a surety in October. As I say, they are a breed the likes of which we will never see again. I respect them for their love of the game when the game was moving away from fun. They stayed with their teams and to my recollection, neither was ever rumored to be traded. I don't recall ever hearing of any "off-the-field" exploits. They were gentlemen and earned the respect of the veterans and adoration of the rookies.
I can't think of any others who can boast such dedication to their craft of baseball. Today, all of the "superstars" are clamoring for an interview with Steinbrenner. I have no doubt that players like Jeter would be seeking NY if they played elsewhere. One of my favorite Reds, Larkin, comes to mind, but he will probably not see the inside of the HOF, his production may not be enough. We, the fans, need more ambassodors like Ripkin & Gwynn, guys who put in honest days' work, and did it with class for 20 plus years without seeking selfish gain.
I am disappointed that my son and nephews and others their ages today didn't have the privilege of watching Cal Ripkin, Jr. and Tony Gwynn work their way to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY. Honors well deserved, indeed. I look forward to the day when I can take Levi to Cooperstown and share my memories of the "players of my day" and let him know that the game of baseball wasn't always like it is now.
I am thankful that there are honest people in the world. May I also strive for such honesty in my family, recreation, and occupation.
I don't know for sure but I think both Ripkin and Gwynn entered the league in the same year, somewhere around 1979. I have baseball cards of both, one is Ripkin's future stars card and the other is Gwynn's rookie or second year. Both of these players are remembered and placed in the HOF primarily for their "on-the-field" production. Ripkin, the Iron Man, demolishing a record for consecutive games played. I heard a stat the other day that he played 501 straight games after breaking the record, which has not even come close to being touched. Gwynn was a perenniel candidate for the NL batting title, posting a .300+ career average. He hit .350 for a few years straight.
As great as their numbers are and for the most part, those criteria gain you the bronze bust in Cooperstown, I don't recall the numbers. I remember that without a doubt, Cal would be wearing Oriole orange and Tony would be wearing the Padre brown. If there were two teams you wouldn't want to play for it may have been those two in the 80's if only for the uniforms they were forced to wear. (The White Sox and their capri pants may have been the worst!) I am sure with their talent, either would have had ample opportunity to demand a trade to a better team and hopefully win. I know both organizations had some decent seasons, but they were never a surety in October. As I say, they are a breed the likes of which we will never see again. I respect them for their love of the game when the game was moving away from fun. They stayed with their teams and to my recollection, neither was ever rumored to be traded. I don't recall ever hearing of any "off-the-field" exploits. They were gentlemen and earned the respect of the veterans and adoration of the rookies.
I can't think of any others who can boast such dedication to their craft of baseball. Today, all of the "superstars" are clamoring for an interview with Steinbrenner. I have no doubt that players like Jeter would be seeking NY if they played elsewhere. One of my favorite Reds, Larkin, comes to mind, but he will probably not see the inside of the HOF, his production may not be enough. We, the fans, need more ambassodors like Ripkin & Gwynn, guys who put in honest days' work, and did it with class for 20 plus years without seeking selfish gain.
I am disappointed that my son and nephews and others their ages today didn't have the privilege of watching Cal Ripkin, Jr. and Tony Gwynn work their way to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY. Honors well deserved, indeed. I look forward to the day when I can take Levi to Cooperstown and share my memories of the "players of my day" and let him know that the game of baseball wasn't always like it is now.
I am thankful that there are honest people in the world. May I also strive for such honesty in my family, recreation, and occupation.
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
Buckeye Adjectives
I am starting a list of adjectives that describe the National Championship game performance by the Buckeyes. Please feel free to add to it. I really wanted to root for OSU this year. There were times I actually enjoyed watching them play. They could have possibly won a new fan last night. I watched half of the game; I stayed up until midnight but only saw one of the two teams playing. I am a fan of Tressel and I am sure that the Bucks will have other opportunities and hopefully they learned something from last night's experience. I think the university should take their share of the millions and pay the fans back the money they spent getting to Glendale to cheer for the team. If they don't pay the fans they should let the BCS keep it for not showing up to play the game. Here goes my list:
disgusting
revolting
nauseating
repulsive
ridiculous
uninspired
insipid
unbelievable
arrogant
overconfident
regrettable
laughable
pathetic
pitiful
unimpressive
unprepared
indefensible (kind of like the Gator offense)
absent (kind of like the Buckeye offense)
frustrating
ludicrous
preposterous
absurd
incredible
I'm thankful that the outcome of football games have no eternal consequences for my life. I hope you don't get too high or low based upon a sporting event.
disgusting
revolting
nauseating
repulsive
ridiculous
uninspired
insipid
unbelievable
arrogant
overconfident
regrettable
laughable
pathetic
pitiful
unimpressive
unprepared
indefensible (kind of like the Gator offense)
absent (kind of like the Buckeye offense)
frustrating
ludicrous
preposterous
absurd
incredible
I'm thankful that the outcome of football games have no eternal consequences for my life. I hope you don't get too high or low based upon a sporting event.
Wednesday, January 3, 2007
Casualty List
I overheard a CNN Headline News report last week that stated that the death count of US soldiers in Iraq has now surpassed the number of US citizens killed on 9-11. As I heard the stat, I was stunned that the comparison was made. What does it really matter how many have given the ultimate sacrifice compared to the number of 9-11 victims. The tag line seemed to me to indicate that CNN thinks that is enough and that we should pull everyone home. "We have lost too many. It's time to come home!"
I don't pretend to be a political pundit, nor am I up to date on all of the ins and outs of our presence in Iraq. I do know that if we as a nation do not have a cause that unites us to face an enemy that is more real than some want to admit, our resolve to see it through will not prevail. What would those who don't understand our need to face the current enemy have done during the 1940's? I asked an army veteran today if war was ever justified. He said, "yes." I don't think any American military has ever sought a fight. But I am thankful that we have had leaders who are strong enough to finish a fight that needed to be fought. Every military personel member who has lost their life creates a sad situation. It touches my heart to hear such reports. May our resolve and conviction for the cause see us through in the new year.
Our Christian life is also a fight. Our enemy is vigilant. Our resolve must be strong to overcome. Our cause is one of hope and promise. The cross of Jesus offers us an eternity surrounding heaven's throne and God's glory. We are not fighting the battles alone. God created the church to give us the help we need. We choose our mates to help us daily face the foe. We seek to foster family relationships that will move us closer to heaven. Relationships are forged to reach deeper into our hearts that will provide strength, comfort, and rejoicing when each are needed.
May our cause be vivid in our hearts and minds daily. May our focus be on the cross of Jesus.
I am thankful for those who are around me who remind me that the cross of Jesus is a worthy cause.
I don't pretend to be a political pundit, nor am I up to date on all of the ins and outs of our presence in Iraq. I do know that if we as a nation do not have a cause that unites us to face an enemy that is more real than some want to admit, our resolve to see it through will not prevail. What would those who don't understand our need to face the current enemy have done during the 1940's? I asked an army veteran today if war was ever justified. He said, "yes." I don't think any American military has ever sought a fight. But I am thankful that we have had leaders who are strong enough to finish a fight that needed to be fought. Every military personel member who has lost their life creates a sad situation. It touches my heart to hear such reports. May our resolve and conviction for the cause see us through in the new year.
Our Christian life is also a fight. Our enemy is vigilant. Our resolve must be strong to overcome. Our cause is one of hope and promise. The cross of Jesus offers us an eternity surrounding heaven's throne and God's glory. We are not fighting the battles alone. God created the church to give us the help we need. We choose our mates to help us daily face the foe. We seek to foster family relationships that will move us closer to heaven. Relationships are forged to reach deeper into our hearts that will provide strength, comfort, and rejoicing when each are needed.
May our cause be vivid in our hearts and minds daily. May our focus be on the cross of Jesus.
I am thankful for those who are around me who remind me that the cross of Jesus is a worthy cause.
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