The Paparazzi at the Grace Family Daycare caught Allie Underwood unawares. Here she is in a new spring outfit from Gap Kids. She gets a B+ for fashion and an A+++ for personality.
Sunday, March 26, 2006
The Red Carpet...
The Paparazzi at the Grace Family Daycare caught Allie Underwood unawares. Here she is in a new spring outfit from Gap Kids. She gets a B+ for fashion and an A+++ for personality.
Look out, Avril...
Here comes Allie, ready for the Daycare spring concert. She and her "pre-tot" cronies belted out the sweetest little lyrics to 'the B-I-B-L-E' you've ever heard. Over three hundred people were in attendance to hear Allie on stage. Okay, she was on stage, but spent most of the time staring at the boisterous little dude next to her. I think she clapped once, and smiled more than once.
at this pace, Avril Lavigne (or any other female musician) will have some competition in the near future.
Allie's definitely cuter than any of them.
Outdoor Girl.
Here's Allie, ready to go down the slide on her own. Okay, actually, she was a little scared of whatever happens at the bottom. She made it down fine though, thanks to that stylish gear on her head.
Babies'R'Allie
She still thinks she's an infant, or really just admires her younger brother.
In this scene, Allie wants to sit on the baby changing table again, and re-live the good old days.
Allie is an avid reader, and she can count to ten when asked now. It is funny to hear how she says the number seven.
Picture a little girl voice saying, "Sammy."
In this scene, Allie wants to sit on the baby changing table again, and re-live the good old days.
Allie is an avid reader, and she can count to ten when asked now. It is funny to hear how she says the number seven.
Picture a little girl voice saying, "Sammy."
Bounce
Dude loves his bouncy seat, even if he doesn't understand it. Allie tries to show him the noisemakers and such, but dude just enjoys life as it is.
Being three months old is great for him. He will smile at just about anything, and it's so fun to capture on film. Especially when your other child is in that "run from the camera" stage.
Being three months old is great for him. He will smile at just about anything, and it's so fun to capture on film. Especially when your other child is in that "run from the camera" stage.
Buds Already...
Here's Luke with new friend Everett Burns. Some of you know by now that Tom Burns (Everett's dad) is a long-time great friend of mine, and he's now joined us in ministry at Delaware Grace Brethren Church.
Everett and Luke are in for some good times.
Somehow, though, it seems like Allie is having the most fun here. What else is new?
Everett and Luke are in for some good times.
Somehow, though, it seems like Allie is having the most fun here. What else is new?
Too Cute to Quit
Luke on March 5. Loves the time on his "tummy." Weird for me to use that word. We love this guy.
Thursday, March 23, 2006
Back when i was a blogger
Here I am again, during a commercial of NCAA basketball. A few random observations about life...
- I have an awesome wife. Jennie does a great job of loving me, loving God, loving people, and loving our kids. She's an expert at showing love and kindness. I don't deserve her - she is a great, great gift.
- I have a funny daughter. Cute as all get out. She likes to run in circles till she falls down. She likes to repeat the last word of my sentence. She likes to laugh spontaneously. She likes to shout "Go Buckeyes" regardless of whatever happens to be on TV.
- LSU beat Duke. Gotta love seeing David beat Goliath. But LSU outmuscled and outhustled them. Their one dude was nicknamed "Big Baby" but was built like Karl Malone. How can a big guy like that tolerate being called "Big Baby"?
- Speaking of "Big Baby," Luke is 3 months old, and I'm about ready to carry that 18 pound load upstairs. I'm procrastinating, cause I know it will be a workout. Plus, I "get" to change his diaper.
- I am preaching on Luke 15 this week. Why do Christians often only make friends with Christians? Jesus made it a priority to hang out with "tax collectors and sinners," and they loved hanging around him. Makes me think Jesus wouldn't have been a pastor at all. If he was, it would be at one of those seeker churches. Doubt that? Read the Gospels again. Especially that part about Jesus coming to seek and to save the "found."
- I have an awesome wife. Jennie does a great job of loving me, loving God, loving people, and loving our kids. She's an expert at showing love and kindness. I don't deserve her - she is a great, great gift.
- I have a funny daughter. Cute as all get out. She likes to run in circles till she falls down. She likes to repeat the last word of my sentence. She likes to laugh spontaneously. She likes to shout "Go Buckeyes" regardless of whatever happens to be on TV.
- LSU beat Duke. Gotta love seeing David beat Goliath. But LSU outmuscled and outhustled them. Their one dude was nicknamed "Big Baby" but was built like Karl Malone. How can a big guy like that tolerate being called "Big Baby"?
- Speaking of "Big Baby," Luke is 3 months old, and I'm about ready to carry that 18 pound load upstairs. I'm procrastinating, cause I know it will be a workout. Plus, I "get" to change his diaper.
- I am preaching on Luke 15 this week. Why do Christians often only make friends with Christians? Jesus made it a priority to hang out with "tax collectors and sinners," and they loved hanging around him. Makes me think Jesus wouldn't have been a pastor at all. If he was, it would be at one of those seeker churches. Doubt that? Read the Gospels again. Especially that part about Jesus coming to seek and to save the "found."
Monday, February 27, 2006
Da Guys...
Chadd and Noah Sommers.
Gary and Luke Underwood.
In about thirteen years, the Underwoods will destroy the Sommers on some driveway basketball court somewhere.
Noah and Luke will lead the Buckeyes in sacks in 2027, after which Luke will break all OSU hearts and turn pro after his junior season. Coach Spielman will try to talk our son out of it, but ultimately this is the best decision for his future. Plus, the Browns have the #1 pick. Luke will then begin training with Buckeye old-timer Ted Ginn Jr, to improve his speed in the 40.
For now, we'll settle for eating at the world's greatest restaurant. Pancho's rules.
Gary and Luke Underwood.
In about thirteen years, the Underwoods will destroy the Sommers on some driveway basketball court somewhere.
Noah and Luke will lead the Buckeyes in sacks in 2027, after which Luke will break all OSU hearts and turn pro after his junior season. Coach Spielman will try to talk our son out of it, but ultimately this is the best decision for his future. Plus, the Browns have the #1 pick. Luke will then begin training with Buckeye old-timer Ted Ginn Jr, to improve his speed in the 40.
For now, we'll settle for eating at the world's greatest restaurant. Pancho's rules.
Lambert fun...
Here's Sybil Lambert, surrounded with kids.
Hers are Keenen (front) and Jadelyn (back). Ours our Luke (asleep) and Allie (glaring at Dad's 27th take of this picture).
Hers are Keenen (front) and Jadelyn (back). Ours our Luke (asleep) and Allie (glaring at Dad's 27th take of this picture).
Dude...
is happy.
His first visit to Akron had him busting out smiles all over summit county.
Then again, this picture was taken in Stark county.
Life on the border...
His first visit to Akron had him busting out smiles all over summit county.
Then again, this picture was taken in Stark county.
Life on the border...
Zac, Hil, Luke, and Zeppe's.
Good times with the Derrs. It was great to catch up with them. The Wadsworth-dwelling Derrs enjoy life at The Chapel and also at Westfield. The Derrs also enjoy eating pizza and cheesecake with the Underwoods. The feeling is definitely mutual.
Happy Guy...
On Wednesday, Luke joined us for dinner at John & Jamie Fuller's abode in Akron. Chloe and Claire Fuller are two of the cutest girls we've ever seen. Thus, the big smile on Luke's grill.
Party on?
Friday lunch was a big hang out at Dan & Jill Bahry's. Mostly for the women and children, this was Jennie's small group for a couple years, starring Jill Bahry, Lori Funai, Chris Debevec, Heather Saylor, Debbie Embaugh, Heidi Sluss, and - oh yeah - Jennie in the middle trying to restrain Allie.
Woof, Woof!
On Friday, Luke and I got to hang out a little bit with Dan and Caden Bahry.
The time went too fast.
Dan and Jill are our friends from Akron. Their son, Caden, will one day join Luke in the linebacking corps for the Cleveland Browns.
Luke also promised to keep Caden out of the end zone when Green meets Delaware Hayes for the state championship in 2024.
The time went too fast.
Dan and Jill are our friends from Akron. Their son, Caden, will one day join Luke in the linebacking corps for the Cleveland Browns.
Luke also promised to keep Caden out of the end zone when Green meets Delaware Hayes for the state championship in 2024.
Monday, February 20, 2006
Sending a message...
At just two months, Luke Thomas Underwood let's the world (and his parents) know about his request for a pet.
Ain't happenin, bro.
At least for a while!
Ain't happenin, bro.
At least for a while!
Allie's Ark
All the animals are now lined up and ready to go. Allie plays with the dining room chairs, as if they would lead her friends to safety.
Get in touch with your "inner child"
We knew Allie was cute, organized, and fun to play with.
We didn't know that having a baby brother would make her all sentimental.
She has gone retro on us...
Crying like she did when she was Luke's age - or at least trying to impersonate his cry...
She also climbs into Luke's bouncer... trying to bring back her "inner child..."
We didn't know that having a baby brother would make her all sentimental.
She has gone retro on us...
Crying like she did when she was Luke's age - or at least trying to impersonate his cry...
She also climbs into Luke's bouncer... trying to bring back her "inner child..."
Bounce
Luke enjoys the bouncer, but not when it's shaking. Sometimes, he can't even find a seat there...
Happy-faced guy...
Luke has a great demeanor. Almost always smiling or sleeping. He grows more alert and happy each day. Dude is in the top 97% for weight of babies his age (2 months). He's at FIFTEEN POUNDS!
The people who said Ohio State linebacker are now thinking pass-rushing defensive end. Think Mike Vrabel. That's Luke Underwood.
The people who said Ohio State linebacker are now thinking pass-rushing defensive end. Think Mike Vrabel. That's Luke Underwood.
The Usual Suspects...
Morning Cheerios... Allie lines them all up straight, and then devours them one by one. We are amazed at her organizational skills and attention to detail. Almost 20 months. Yikes!!
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Let the readers decide, part Deux.
Here's option 2 in our contest... either this photo or the one below it will be on our holiday card a month after the fact..
Which one would you pick?
Be honest!!!
This one is option 2.
Which one would you pick?
Be honest!!!
This one is option 2.
Let the readers decide...
It's either this picture or the one posted above it that will go out to friends and family on our belated holiday card... what do you like best?
Good news!
Luke is already a happy-faced guy. Those who read my blogs know the deal. Read on and maybe you will too!
Pride is a good thing...
especially when your big sister is proud of you.
Allie has started acting like a baby more... wanting to cuddle, wanting to sit in the bouncy seat, wanting to cry louder and sleep more, and even drinking more milk.
She's already sentimental.
Allie has started acting like a baby more... wanting to cuddle, wanting to sit in the bouncy seat, wanting to cry louder and sleep more, and even drinking more milk.
She's already sentimental.
You know what time it is...
Just nine years removed from the life on Beta First (Gary's dorm at Grace College), his son Luke carries on the legacy of not keeping things in the bag. He let's it all out here for the camera.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Denver Remix
Well, I spent last week in Denver, taking a class on preaching and leadership. The class was led by Dr. Scott Wenig of Denver Seminary and Mike Breaux of Willow Creek Community Church in Barrington, Illinois.
Over the past five years, my life and faith has been influenced, inspired, and encouraged by several of the leaders at Willow Creek. When the opportunity to take a class with Mike Breaux came up, I was pretty pumped. Here's a church with over 20,000 people that God has used greatly to not only reach thousands of people in Chicago, but influence and build up the church worldwide. Like any excellent ministry, Willow Creek has had many churches and pastors who want to copy, imitate, or emulate what they have seen happen at this wonderful church. I'm afraid I can't blame them (us) for wanting to see God work in such powerful ways in our own churches and communities!
Today I feel moved to at least blog a disclaimer. It's not just their location (big city), their arts and music (mostly professional quality), their technology (state-of-the-art plasma screens), or their once-in-a-lifetime CEO/Pastor Bill Hybels - it's the fact that these people really love God and love people. I've included this link that has just a little bit about Mike Breaux.
The fact is that most churches exist today to serve the people INSIDE the building. The "membership" or the "fellowship" of the already-convinced.
But that's not exactly why Jesus invented the church.
I remember how Jesus described his own life mission - "to seek and to save the lost."
I remember what he told his closest friends - "Go and make disciples."
I remember the last charge he gave them - "Be my witnesses... to the very ends of the earth."
Seems like the God-given purpose of the church is to GO LOVE PEOPLE who are OUTSIDE the building. So Jesus would eat meals with "sinners." So Jesus pursued a reject tax-collector like Zaccheus. So Jesus went out of his way to talk to a hurting woman who did not know God's love. So Paul traveled all over the Roman empire telling people about Jesus.
If a "church" isn't placing a huge priority on spreading this GREAT news about God's love...
If a "church" is more concerned about maintaining the "way we've always done it"...
If a "church" isn't actively trying to build friendships outside of the church membership...
Then it's really NOT the church.
(Yikes -- this is our personal family blog where I'm supposed to tell people about how cute Luke is, what words Allie is learning, and how much Jennie is sleeping. Here I go off on some passionate tirade about the purpose of the church. I just felt like I had to share.)
Wednesday, December 28, 2005
Sibling Rivalry?
Actually, Allie really likes baby Luke so far. I think the best part has been hearing her say the word "Glook" more often. That's what she calls Luke. "Glook."She calls him "baby," and responds whenever she hears him cry or sees him. Allie just turned 18 months old, and is so much fun. I can't believe all the toys and clothes she got for Christmas. It's clear she doesn't feel left out at all at this point.
Because I'm an only child, I really have no experience with the whole sibling rivalry concept.
Any words of advice? I'd love to hear 'em.
Nice.
That's Grandma Walta (Jennie's grandma) with Luke, and Jennie with Allie. We've had more challenges getting the four of us to pose together than you would possibly believe. Not sure if we'll actually send one of those cute Christmas cards again this year. Though now, I feel guilty for calling it a "Holiday Card" last year. We called it a "Holiday card" because we didn't get around to sending it until about New Year's. Not because we were trying to avoid Christmas. But boy, what a controversy during this recent Christmas! I think it should be okay to wish people a happy whatever day they want to celebrate.
Go Buckeyes!
Luke gets ready for Ohio State's big bowl game against Notre Dame on Monday. Last night, he laid on Daddy's chest and watched a replay of the Buckeyes' battle with Texas in September. What a great kid!
Saturday, December 17, 2005
The Reunion...
Allie is all too excited to show off her new little brother. Amazing how much we missed Allie during our 2.5 days in the hospital. We're home now and Allie is adjusting well to our new addition... so far =)
Friday, December 16, 2005
Little Buckeye
Several have already said Luke looks like his Dad.
Dad first thought Luke looks like his sister.
Regardless, Luke got all the love yesterday on his arrival. We love him and can't wait to bring him home.
Allie met him for the first time last night at about 6:45pm. She did great, and even looked at him and said "baby" a few times. We all know she has no clue whatsoever. But she will be a great big sister.
Thanks to all of you for your prayers and encouragement!
Dad first thought Luke looks like his sister.
Regardless, Luke got all the love yesterday on his arrival. We love him and can't wait to bring him home.
Allie met him for the first time last night at about 6:45pm. She did great, and even looked at him and said "baby" a few times. We all know she has no clue whatsoever. But she will be a great big sister.
Thanks to all of you for your prayers and encouragement!
The Hero
Jennie had a long day yesterday. We waited a while at the hospital so they could monitor her contractions, heart rate, and other various statistics.
Her induced labor went well, especially after the epideral.
Everything is going well (feeding, sleeping, etc.) and Jennie is already bonding big-time with this one.
Her induced labor went well, especially after the epideral.
Everything is going well (feeding, sleeping, etc.) and Jennie is already bonding big-time with this one.
Welcome Luke Underwood!!!
Luke Thomas Underwood
Born Thursday, December 15, 2005
3:44pm
8 pounds, 7 ounces
21 inches long
Mom and baby are doing great. Luke came out pretty fast, so he has some purple (bruise) on his face, but he's doing great!
Born Thursday, December 15, 2005
3:44pm
8 pounds, 7 ounces
21 inches long
Mom and baby are doing great. Luke came out pretty fast, so he has some purple (bruise) on his face, but he's doing great!
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Picture Day
Allie got all dressed up for picture day. On one of the first significant snow days here in central Ohio, Allie broke out the furry coat for the photos. Of course none of her actual photos turned out well, but this one did.
What a cutie.
What a cutie.
Little Reader
Allie likes to read. Sometimes, she'll grab a book and go sit by her own and 'read' it.
It is amazing how she'll read a book, and then insert some of the words she actually does know how to say.
Like "ducky."
Like "cracker"
and, of course,
"Go Buckeyes!"
It is amazing how she'll read a book, and then insert some of the words she actually does know how to say.
Like "ducky."
Like "cracker"
and, of course,
"Go Buckeyes!"
It's a Wonderful Life!
We just watched the Frank Capra Christmas classic last night on NBC.
But it really, truly, is a wonderful life. God has blessed me with an awesome wife, a beautiful daughter, and a wonderul son (below Allie) who will arrive this Thursday (or earlier).
Jennie and I can't wait to meet Luke. Allie still calls him "Glue."
This picture is from today's daycare Christmas program, where Allie got to "sing" with other kids her age. We had fun and got some great pics! More to come...
But it really, truly, is a wonderful life. God has blessed me with an awesome wife, a beautiful daughter, and a wonderul son (below Allie) who will arrive this Thursday (or earlier).
Jennie and I can't wait to meet Luke. Allie still calls him "Glue."
This picture is from today's daycare Christmas program, where Allie got to "sing" with other kids her age. We had fun and got some great pics! More to come...
Friday, December 09, 2005
Roller-Coaster Narnia Day
The decision to take Fridays off (instead of Sunday or Monday) paid off well today. Jennie and I spent three hours in the hospital this morning (3AM-6AM), convinced that Jennie was going into labor and ready to bring Luke into the world...Jennie was having lots of contractions, but Luke was still '"high" and she wasn't dilated but only 3 centimeters with no progress. I remember being this open about Allie details, to Jer's chagrin, but here I go again...
We had planned to have an extended "date-day" today, spending time doing Christmas shopping, going to a movie, and probably eating somewhere cool.
Anyhow, after being at the hospital so long in the middle of the night, we were plain zonked (tired). So we got home, took Allie to daycare, and slept for four hours. We woke up, had a great burger at Fuddrucker's, and then went to see Narnia on opening day.
Narnia - the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe - a disney-produced rendition of C.S. Lewis' literary classic. The movie was excellent, and the action, drama, and special effects were better than I thought they'd be. Without giving an extended review, I'll just tell you this movie is well worth seeing. 3.5 stars.
The kids and voices in this movie did a terrific job.
Before seeing this, I kept comparing Narnia to The Lord of the Rings. Borh are fantasies, both involve strange creatures, and both have similar effects and graphics. But we must remember where these movies came from. The Lord of the Rings trilogy, written by J.R.R. Tolkien, is an extended mythology written for adult fantasy readers in England. Most copies of the trilogy together consist of over 1,000 pages. The Narnia movie is based on C.S. Lewis' Chronicles of Narnia - but only book one of the seven in the series. Book one, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, is often about 150 pages, and written as an allegory - a story that is an extended metaphor or symbol for something else. The book is written for kids, but has much appeal with adults. I feel the same about the movie.
Narnia is a great movie for kids (especially ages 7-12), but will have much appeal for adults.
The Lord of the Rings is probably the opposite. A fantasy movie for adults, but has much appeal for kids.
All that to say I liked Narnia and will probably rent it when it comes out to see it again. Let me know your thoughts on this one, as I know many of you will see it - if you haven't already...
Monday, November 28, 2005
On the Polar Express...
There's the logo for our new sermon series here at Delaware Grace. The other night, I discovered that a church in Cincinnati is also doing a series by that very same name! Horizon Community Church is doing a 5-week look at some of the more popular movies of Christmas. They started with A Christmas Story.
Anyhow, Jennie and I watched The Polar Express last night. I remember being at a ministry conference in 2004 when they were giving out free tickets to an advanced screening. As if the movie had something to do with faith.
Well, "they" were right on. This movie has a LOT to do with faith. I must have found seven or eight great clips from this movie that address the issue of and search for faith.
The main character is supposed to be Tom Hanks as a little boy. He really wants to believe in Santa Claus, the North Pole, and the whole story of Christmas.
I don't want to ruin the movie for anyone... But if you want a movie that can really take you back to the wonder, the fantasy, the excitement of Christmas, I think this is that kind of movie.
Quite frankly, I expected NOT to like it. I've had some people tell me it wasn't a good movie. I have my mom telling me "it got weird" in a couple of spots. It may not be a movie for everyone.
For whatever reason, the movie hit a special cord with me. The main character really wanted to believe. Much of his interactions deal with the power of believing. The power of seeing the unseen. How faith must come before actions.
Tom Hanks must play ten characters in the movie. One of his characters says quite clearly, "Sometimes, the most real things are the things we can't see." How true.
The trailer for this movie starts out with a narrator saying, "What if there was a place beyond your imagination, and to get there, all you have to do is believe?"
Well, I think there IS such a place. In fact, I think experiencing life with God is such a place.
And that's precisely why I really liked The Polar Express.
Sunday, November 27, 2005
The True Meaning...
For the next four weeks, we'll be focusing on Christmas. If you haven't bought gifts for anyone yet, your clock is now ticking. If you haven't made your Christmas wish list yet, people are buying you things you might not want. Every year, we celebrate and enjoy Christmas for so many good reasons. We might even entertain discussion or prayer about the "true meaning of Christmas." Several months ago, I got excited about the idea of doing a Christmas sermon series that connected with some of the most memorable and loved Christmas movies. I am committed to preaching straight from Scripture, and use culture as a way to connect. We're going to focus on the gospel accounts of Christ's prophecy, birth, and reception. We'll probe the Bible's account of "Christmas" and examine the most important virtues of the season. Here's a schedule of four powerful virtues of Christmas, as found in the Gospels:
Sunday, December 4 - "Believe" - Matthew 1 and the calling of Joseph
Sunday, December 11 - "Love" - John 3 and 1 John 4
Sunday, December 18 - "Give" - Luke 1 and 2
Sunday, December 25 - "Receive" - John 1
Since this is called "Reel Christmas" and we want to connect faith with life and culture... I will be looking for Christmas movies and clips that inspire us to "Believe," "Love," "Give," and "Receive" in the God-given meaning of Christmas.
Some movies that are being considered...
- The Polar Express
- It's a Wonderful Life
- Elf
- The Christmas Carol
- Christmas Vacation
- The Grinch Who Stole Christmas
- Home Alone
- Miracle on 34th Street
Can you think of others?
Can you think of a scene from any of these movies that would inspire people (you included) to greater levels of BELIEVING, LOVING, GIVING, or RECEIVING?
Just curious....
Wednesday, November 16, 2005
Intensity, Emotion, Feeling...
This Saturday, Ohio State will play Michigan in football. When you "love" something or someone, you wind up placing a lot of thought, emotion, and loyalty toward them. I have been an Ohio State fan since about 1982. Growing up in Ohio, most of us root for our home teams. OSU is the only large football school in the state, the only one in the national picture every year. Growing up in a football county (Stark County - home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and much of football's grass roots including Paul Brown, the Massillon Tigers, and the Canton Bulldogs), I have always loved to follow, watch, and play football.
While I usually challenge people on how "flippantly" we use the word "love".... I do use the word personally. I do love Ohio State football. I root for, support, follow, study, preach, and talk Ohio State football.
This morning, Jennie was sick, and so I brought Allie into Daycare today. Since it is Ohio State vs. Michigan week, I dressed Allie up in her Ohio State shirt, her Ohio State socks, and her Ohio State windbreaker. She also wore blue jeans and a diaper, in case you were wondering. I was so proud to bring her in with that outfit on, and walked her around the hallways to show everybody.
After I dropped her off, I went to work. I suppose I should let you know that our church hosts the daycare, so I work in the same building that Allie plays in all day.
Just a half hour ago, the door to my office opens slowly.
My beautiful daughter Allie walks in.
But something
is very
different.
My face froze in shock, amazement, frustration, and love....
Someone in the daycare or church staff had dressed Allie up in Maize and Blue.
For those of you who do not know, those are the colors of Michigan. NOT the colors of Ohio.
These are colors I swore never to put on any of my children. These are colors that symbolize the evil regime up north. These are the colors more fit to be seen on toilet paper than on children's clothing.
In that moment, I was really stunned. I didn't know what to do.
Here I am, senior pastor of a church... leader of a staff... and someone has dressed my daugher up in the garb of the enemy.
What would you do?
I have always "loved" Ohio State. (No, not "Love" in the God-sense or the family-sense.. you know what I mean.)
As a result, I have always "hated" Michigan. (No, not "hate" in the sinful sense where you condemn people. Again, you know what I mean.)
In a sports sense, this was still an emotional moment for me. Makes me love Ohio State even more. Makes me love my daughter even more. Makes me hate Michigan even more.
Any suggestions on how I could or should retaliate?
Meanwhile, I have this huge confidence that the best kind of retaliation happens on the field. Ohio State is 3-1 against Michigan since Jim Tressel arrived as head coach of the Buckeyes. It's a tough rivalry and anything can happen, but I think Ohio State is going to win.
My prediction: Ohio State 35, Michigan 13.
Thursday, November 10, 2005
Christmas List...
By now, you've probably had a few people ask you what you want for Christmas.
I have, as at least the Underwoods, Waltas, and Jennie inquired as to my yule-tide wishes.
I don't know exactly what it is, but my perspective on Christmas and gifts has changed somewhere along the line.
Usually, I feel guilty thinking about what I "want" for Christmas. I realize I have everything I need. In fact, if you cut my possessions in half, I'd still have everything I need. Cut them in half again, and I'd still... you get the point. Ours is a nation of excess, a culture of comfort.
When I realize that I don't really "need" anything, I start to think about "legitimate" wants. New clothes. Money for school. Gift certificates to take my wife out for dinner. Stuff for our baby or our family.
Somewhere in my American, white-middle-class past, I learned to give into the "non-legitimate" wants for Christmas. I grab the Best Buy ad out of the Sunday paper every week. I go online to look at the latest gadgets and movies and such. I look at my list of "legitimate wants" like a new shirt or whatever and fight feelings of dissatisfaction. Like toys are supposed to make me happy. Like the iPod Shuffle just isn't big enough or cool enough. Like the 150 books I already own and want to read aren't complete without book #151. Like my "Ohio State room" isn't exciting enough without one more bobblehead, picture, or program.
As I sort through my Christmas list... As I define some things as "wants" and others as "non-legitimate wants"...
Right here in Delaware, there are people who cannot afford to give their kids a Christmas gift. There are people who rely on food pantries for their Christmas dinner. There are those without a home.
And I have a whole room in my house devoted to a football team.
Just thinking "out loud" on paper, I guess. Not sure where this is leading, I just know I feel this to some extent every Christmas. Don't we all?
But what to do about it?
I have, as at least the Underwoods, Waltas, and Jennie inquired as to my yule-tide wishes.
I don't know exactly what it is, but my perspective on Christmas and gifts has changed somewhere along the line.
Usually, I feel guilty thinking about what I "want" for Christmas. I realize I have everything I need. In fact, if you cut my possessions in half, I'd still have everything I need. Cut them in half again, and I'd still... you get the point. Ours is a nation of excess, a culture of comfort.
When I realize that I don't really "need" anything, I start to think about "legitimate" wants. New clothes. Money for school. Gift certificates to take my wife out for dinner. Stuff for our baby or our family.
Somewhere in my American, white-middle-class past, I learned to give into the "non-legitimate" wants for Christmas. I grab the Best Buy ad out of the Sunday paper every week. I go online to look at the latest gadgets and movies and such. I look at my list of "legitimate wants" like a new shirt or whatever and fight feelings of dissatisfaction. Like toys are supposed to make me happy. Like the iPod Shuffle just isn't big enough or cool enough. Like the 150 books I already own and want to read aren't complete without book #151. Like my "Ohio State room" isn't exciting enough without one more bobblehead, picture, or program.
As I sort through my Christmas list... As I define some things as "wants" and others as "non-legitimate wants"...
Right here in Delaware, there are people who cannot afford to give their kids a Christmas gift. There are people who rely on food pantries for their Christmas dinner. There are those without a home.
And I have a whole room in my house devoted to a football team.
Just thinking "out loud" on paper, I guess. Not sure where this is leading, I just know I feel this to some extent every Christmas. Don't we all?
But what to do about it?
Monday, November 07, 2005
Calendar Check
Jennie and I could hardly get to sleep last night, talking about how fast the past year has flown by. It's been over a year now since we started life here in Delaware. So much has changed, so much has stayed the same. God has blessed our lives in so many ways.
I have learned a lot about myself.
We have learned a lot about ourselves.
We have learned a lot about God, family, friendships, and time.
I am 31 years old, Jennie is 27. All of the sudden, we feel like life has hit this pace where the months go as fast as weeks used to. Where weeks go as fast as days used to. Many of you know what I am talking about.
But there is still power in the moment. Power in a few minutes - enough, at least, to update my journal with a little sentimentality and reflection.
I have learned that I love to preach. It is probably my top spiritual gift, and a passion and privilege to be able to do this thing twice a week. I like having the freedom to experiment, to question, to probe, and to develop. I like knowing that, even if I think a sermon goes bad, other people will love it and God uses it.
Rest assured, I don't intentionally plan bad sermons. Just some are better than others, and that's life.
Yesterday, I felt sick to my stomach and preached a sermon that challenged some people. We're starting this study through Jonah, and I preached through the events in chapter one - backwards. It was fun to at least experiment by preaching a passage backwards and rewinding every few minutes to ask the question - "How did we get here?"
I have learned that I am terrible at keeping in touch with friends. I rely too much on this silly blog, instant messenger, or e-mail, and I'm starting to get sick of it. I'd rather pick up the phone and call someone than hope he checks his e-mail.
I have also learned that, the longer you go without keeping in touch, the less you feel like you have the "right" to call them now. I know that's not true, so I'll probably start calling some of you for the first time in a long time. Then again, I'm admittedly bad at keeping in touch, so I'd better not make that claim.
iChat is good sometimes, though.
I guess I am done with this post. I miss you all, though.
Jennie is 33 weeks pregnant, sometimes really tired and congested even.
Allie is saying new words like "clock" and "truck" and "butterfly" - although they don't always sound correct. We'll work on enunciation.
Luke kicks a lot, and is pretty big already. Someone told me today that the largest baby ever born at Grady Hospital here in Delaware was like 11 pounds or something. Not a record we want to break, Luke.
I have learned a lot about myself.
We have learned a lot about ourselves.
We have learned a lot about God, family, friendships, and time.
I am 31 years old, Jennie is 27. All of the sudden, we feel like life has hit this pace where the months go as fast as weeks used to. Where weeks go as fast as days used to. Many of you know what I am talking about.
But there is still power in the moment. Power in a few minutes - enough, at least, to update my journal with a little sentimentality and reflection.
I have learned that I love to preach. It is probably my top spiritual gift, and a passion and privilege to be able to do this thing twice a week. I like having the freedom to experiment, to question, to probe, and to develop. I like knowing that, even if I think a sermon goes bad, other people will love it and God uses it.
Rest assured, I don't intentionally plan bad sermons. Just some are better than others, and that's life.
Yesterday, I felt sick to my stomach and preached a sermon that challenged some people. We're starting this study through Jonah, and I preached through the events in chapter one - backwards. It was fun to at least experiment by preaching a passage backwards and rewinding every few minutes to ask the question - "How did we get here?"
I have learned that I am terrible at keeping in touch with friends. I rely too much on this silly blog, instant messenger, or e-mail, and I'm starting to get sick of it. I'd rather pick up the phone and call someone than hope he checks his e-mail.
I have also learned that, the longer you go without keeping in touch, the less you feel like you have the "right" to call them now. I know that's not true, so I'll probably start calling some of you for the first time in a long time. Then again, I'm admittedly bad at keeping in touch, so I'd better not make that claim.
iChat is good sometimes, though.
I guess I am done with this post. I miss you all, though.
Jennie is 33 weeks pregnant, sometimes really tired and congested even.
Allie is saying new words like "clock" and "truck" and "butterfly" - although they don't always sound correct. We'll work on enunciation.
Luke kicks a lot, and is pretty big already. Someone told me today that the largest baby ever born at Grady Hospital here in Delaware was like 11 pounds or something. Not a record we want to break, Luke.
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
Fumble Recovery?
Definitely our best Halloween ever. Allie played the part of the Ohio State cheerleader who also liked to throw the football. For much of the night, she walked around the neighborhood with two snickers bars firmly clenched in her fists.
Very Happy Halloween...
Last night, we held "trick or treat" in our neighborhood. Of course Allie was an Ohio State cheerleader. She had a lot of fun running around the neighborhood with Jennie. She also liked shouting "Hi-yeee" and "Bye-eee" to people who came to our house for candy. For a break from all that action, she chased a football around the yard.
Monday, October 31, 2005
Allie in leaves...
Here she is, about a week ago while we were in Michigan. Stay tuned for Allie's first ever Halloween adventure.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Thursday Mutterbox
Sure, it's Thursday, and I haven't updated the bloggiouse in a while. Jennie and I were in Michigan for a couple of days. I was in Indiana for at least a day. Alas, blogworld gets the leftovers. AND the updates! Can't forget those!-------
Friday night, some friends o'mine and I rode out to Winona Lake in a rented Pontiac Montana minivan. We had a great time, and it was worth the rental. Worth it, that is, until I found out I could have used my connections at Enterprise rent-a-car to swing a better deal. Seriously, though, we saved a ton of gas money and didn't put any miles on our cars!
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Why in the world would we go to Winona Lake? Our 12th-annual Fantasy Basketball Draft from our days at Beta Dorm. We have continued doing the FBL (Fantasy Basketball League) and really had a good time this weekend. Thanks to Brad Shupe for hosting Friday night's "party," and to Dave & Kristin Jones for the cookout on Saturday, and to Dave Pacheco for being the source of much comedy for the weekend.
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I am currently preparing to teach God's Story Line tonight, so I shouldn't post too many more updates.
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The picture of Allie was taken a couple of weeks ago. We do have some more pics from our time in Michigan with Jennie's family. Her parents live in Big Rapids, Michigan and are huge Green Bay Packer fans. No, I did not mention the Browns beating the Packers a few weeks ago.
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Life in Columbus is good. Can't believe we're less than eight weeks away from baby Luke's arrival. Yikes. Time to sleep in, if there ever was time. I see my whole life - especially the next twenty years of it - flashing right in front of me.
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I also see a few more trips in a minivan.
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I'm not one of those guys who thinks that getting a minivan is somehow a compromise of my masculinity. I think it's time for all of those guys to get over it and act like parenting is a better privilege. Just be glad if you can afford a vehicle in the first place.
-------
Apparently, I need to relax more. That previous statement was pretty strong.
-------
If I do relax more, I don't think that would be another compromise of my masculinity.
-------
I just finished reading Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell. Terrific and thought-provoking. Emphasis on the "provoking" part. Like Brian McLaren's book "A Generous Orthodoxy," Rob Bell's book is probably for mature readers only. Bell challenges some of our most dearly-held beliefs, and he does it to make some strong points that are worth discussing. Of course he has taken criticism from those who think he has compromised his Christianity.
------
I don't think Rob Bell has compromised his Christianity. On the other hand, I think he has not compromised his masculinity, either.
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LOST reruns. Why?
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White Sox sweep Indians in September, win world series in October. Not so lucky next year, Ozzie.
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My team: Dirk, Elton, Vince, Tony, Tyson, Jameer, Caron, Grant, Nenad, Eric, Earl, Antonio, Al, and T.J.
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Christmas shopping already?
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
Late Tuesday Ramble...
I was trying to do these updates every Tuesday, but I think I skipped last week. Oh well - it's time for some real updates and thoughts from life here in Delaware... What would people want to hear about? Maybe that's your comment that you post underneath here... Tell me what kind of updates I'm supposed to give. Or do you just want me to attempt to entertain you with funny quotes and stories about all things Allie, Jennie, or Gary?
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LOST is a great show. Jennie and I are taping season two. There's a lot more going on (potentially) than you ever imagined on season one. This week, hopefully we find out who the "others" really are.
------
Jennie has passed the 30-week mark and is feeling good and big. Luke is doing well and kicking a lot. I can't believe he'll be here in less than two months. I mean, he's already here, but he'll be "out here" in the post-natal world.
------
Allie is gaining in intelligence and cuteness. She is so smart. She gives me five. She can point to her toes, her nose, her hair, her mouth, her teeth, and her eyes! When I hide her yellow elephant, she asks "Go?" - which is her version for "Where did he go?" She runs a lot. She laughs a lot. Tonight, I was wheeling her around the living room on her little cart and she fell off and hit her head. She was fine after a few minutes, but I'm still reeling from the sight of that fall.
------
Last week, I was at Willow Creek's "A2" Conference. I have been to 8 or 10 conferences so far in my pastoral life, and this was easily the BEST. I had a terrific week of worship, learning, inspiration from some of the country's finest. Ironically, last Wednesday was the 30th anniversary of Willow Creek Community Church. Tomorrow night (10/19), they are having a special in-house concert with Matt Redman, Louie Giglio, and Chris Tomlin. Yikes.
------
Anyhow, at Willow, I got to hear Bill Hybels speak three times. His passion for evangelism and his terrific storytelling and insight are sharper than ever. Can I just say I think it's pretty unfortunate that so much of conservative Christian America only knows him as the "seeker service guy"? It's funny to hear other Christian leaders criticize a guy - and a church - that has such worldwide influence. Let alone the influence in their own community. Last year, at their Easter weekend services, they had almost 50,000 people. Criticize away! (???)
------
I guess my other problem with the criticism is that most of these people have never actually been to Willow or heard their leaders teach. Why is it that some people would prefer to criticize success than learn from it?
------
Props to Kirbyjon Caldwell, the last non-Hybels to speak at the conference. He's the pastor/leader of Windsor Village church near Houston. He started the church like 15 or 20 years ago, and now there are 14,000 people going, giving, and serving in the Houston area because of his leadership. His talk was insightful, funny, and memorable. He talked a lot about getting out of the Christian huddle and going out and living with real faith in action. At the 2003 Leadership Summit (another classic conference experience), Kirbyjon was sick, and so they had Erwin McManus speak twice. Erwin is one of my favorites and a real inspiration to me, but Caldwell is just as powerful and engaging. I learn so much from hearing and watching these guys!
------
Jennie is leading a small-group study for high school girls here in our living room. She has been enjoying these Wednesday night meetings, and it's been fun to watch her lead (even though I'm not actually there in the room).
------
Work is also going very well for Jennie - one day a week at a local nursing home company. Occupational Therapy. She's obviously going to stop working soon as the pregnancy progresses. Allie goes to our Grace Family Daycare while Jennie is at work those days...
------
This Friday is my annual FBL Draft weekend with the dudes from Grace College. A bunch of us are going to ride out together from here in Central Ohio.
------
Sometimes I preach a sermon and feel like, "Man, am I glad that's over!" This past Sunday, I preached on the busyness and stress of our lives, and our need to get real with God. Luke 10:38-42. Felt like one of the best talks I've ever given. It was fun, I was real, and I was even a little hyper. Jennie gives me good feedback afterwards.
------
The Interpreter is out. Have you seen it?
------
Yeah, I haven't posted in a while. I'm too busy reading Danny Wright's blog, or working and teaching, and waiting for Ostovic to update his blog too. Hee hee!
------
LOST is a great show. Jennie and I are taping season two. There's a lot more going on (potentially) than you ever imagined on season one. This week, hopefully we find out who the "others" really are.
------
Jennie has passed the 30-week mark and is feeling good and big. Luke is doing well and kicking a lot. I can't believe he'll be here in less than two months. I mean, he's already here, but he'll be "out here" in the post-natal world.
------
Allie is gaining in intelligence and cuteness. She is so smart. She gives me five. She can point to her toes, her nose, her hair, her mouth, her teeth, and her eyes! When I hide her yellow elephant, she asks "Go?" - which is her version for "Where did he go?" She runs a lot. She laughs a lot. Tonight, I was wheeling her around the living room on her little cart and she fell off and hit her head. She was fine after a few minutes, but I'm still reeling from the sight of that fall.
------
Last week, I was at Willow Creek's "A2" Conference. I have been to 8 or 10 conferences so far in my pastoral life, and this was easily the BEST. I had a terrific week of worship, learning, inspiration from some of the country's finest. Ironically, last Wednesday was the 30th anniversary of Willow Creek Community Church. Tomorrow night (10/19), they are having a special in-house concert with Matt Redman, Louie Giglio, and Chris Tomlin. Yikes.
------
Anyhow, at Willow, I got to hear Bill Hybels speak three times. His passion for evangelism and his terrific storytelling and insight are sharper than ever. Can I just say I think it's pretty unfortunate that so much of conservative Christian America only knows him as the "seeker service guy"? It's funny to hear other Christian leaders criticize a guy - and a church - that has such worldwide influence. Let alone the influence in their own community. Last year, at their Easter weekend services, they had almost 50,000 people. Criticize away! (???)
------
I guess my other problem with the criticism is that most of these people have never actually been to Willow or heard their leaders teach. Why is it that some people would prefer to criticize success than learn from it?
------
Props to Kirbyjon Caldwell, the last non-Hybels to speak at the conference. He's the pastor/leader of Windsor Village church near Houston. He started the church like 15 or 20 years ago, and now there are 14,000 people going, giving, and serving in the Houston area because of his leadership. His talk was insightful, funny, and memorable. He talked a lot about getting out of the Christian huddle and going out and living with real faith in action. At the 2003 Leadership Summit (another classic conference experience), Kirbyjon was sick, and so they had Erwin McManus speak twice. Erwin is one of my favorites and a real inspiration to me, but Caldwell is just as powerful and engaging. I learn so much from hearing and watching these guys!
------
Jennie is leading a small-group study for high school girls here in our living room. She has been enjoying these Wednesday night meetings, and it's been fun to watch her lead (even though I'm not actually there in the room).
------
Work is also going very well for Jennie - one day a week at a local nursing home company. Occupational Therapy. She's obviously going to stop working soon as the pregnancy progresses. Allie goes to our Grace Family Daycare while Jennie is at work those days...
------
This Friday is my annual FBL Draft weekend with the dudes from Grace College. A bunch of us are going to ride out together from here in Central Ohio.
------
Sometimes I preach a sermon and feel like, "Man, am I glad that's over!" This past Sunday, I preached on the busyness and stress of our lives, and our need to get real with God. Luke 10:38-42. Felt like one of the best talks I've ever given. It was fun, I was real, and I was even a little hyper. Jennie gives me good feedback afterwards.
------
The Interpreter is out. Have you seen it?
------
Yeah, I haven't posted in a while. I'm too busy reading Danny Wright's blog, or working and teaching, and waiting for Ostovic to update his blog too. Hee hee!
Sunday, October 09, 2005
Reading night...
Jennie and I are on the couch reading. We read different stuff, and I don't know why we're still awake.
Okay, I know why she's still awake. She's reading a pretty awesome book, and she can't put it down. It's the story of how Willow Creek Community Church grew from being a youth group church plant in a movie theater... to one of the largest churches in America that now influences the world.
Me, I'm just reading some of my friends' blogs. All sorts of news. I laughed, and I cried, and I'm having a great time.
- One guy is just hilarious to read, thoughtful and thought-provoking too. Jer, props on setting the bar pretty high for humor and honesty on the blog. Even more props for logging on to Mosaic. You're right, Erwin is one of my heroes, and I'm thrilled that I can download his podcasts now for free.
- Another blog discusses football picks and blog theory. Are blogs just places where we write too much or think too much about ourselves? Knavel delves mostly into the world of sports, but he can be thought-provoking when you least expect it! I enjoy reading your blog, Commish!
- It is really hard to compete with the blog-news put out by The Ostovics right now, but Becks and Lee are going to try! Keep scrolling down and you'll see what I mean... Then again, Tom and Christie Burns also have cranked out a few major updates of their own - thanks Tom for returning to blogville!
- Do any of these guys blog? Mike Arnold? Dave Matheny? Dave Jones? Dave Pacheco? Dan Bahry? Chadd Sommers? Zac Derr? Chris Young? Jonathan Wiley? Scott Feather? I guess I could do a web search and see if any of them do, but I figure if I start name-dropping here, word might get around to them... and then they could all start blogs as if it was their own idea?
- I guess blogging isn't for everyone. But the Browns are 2-2, with wins over the Packers and the Bears.
- This doesn't replace my "Tuesday ramble" - I'll drop in sometime in the next day or two with more updates before the A2 Conference. Can't wait to worship at Willow Creek. Can't wait to see the Happy Faced Guy. Can't wait to hear McManus & Stanley. Can't wait to see Muto (while we're at it, does anyone know who Muto is? Does Muto blog? -- I guess I'll find out this week!)
Okay, I know why she's still awake. She's reading a pretty awesome book, and she can't put it down. It's the story of how Willow Creek Community Church grew from being a youth group church plant in a movie theater... to one of the largest churches in America that now influences the world.
Me, I'm just reading some of my friends' blogs. All sorts of news. I laughed, and I cried, and I'm having a great time.
- One guy is just hilarious to read, thoughtful and thought-provoking too. Jer, props on setting the bar pretty high for humor and honesty on the blog. Even more props for logging on to Mosaic. You're right, Erwin is one of my heroes, and I'm thrilled that I can download his podcasts now for free.
- Another blog discusses football picks and blog theory. Are blogs just places where we write too much or think too much about ourselves? Knavel delves mostly into the world of sports, but he can be thought-provoking when you least expect it! I enjoy reading your blog, Commish!
- It is really hard to compete with the blog-news put out by The Ostovics right now, but Becks and Lee are going to try! Keep scrolling down and you'll see what I mean... Then again, Tom and Christie Burns also have cranked out a few major updates of their own - thanks Tom for returning to blogville!
- Do any of these guys blog? Mike Arnold? Dave Matheny? Dave Jones? Dave Pacheco? Dan Bahry? Chadd Sommers? Zac Derr? Chris Young? Jonathan Wiley? Scott Feather? I guess I could do a web search and see if any of them do, but I figure if I start name-dropping here, word might get around to them... and then they could all start blogs as if it was their own idea?
- I guess blogging isn't for everyone. But the Browns are 2-2, with wins over the Packers and the Bears.
- This doesn't replace my "Tuesday ramble" - I'll drop in sometime in the next day or two with more updates before the A2 Conference. Can't wait to worship at Willow Creek. Can't wait to see the Happy Faced Guy. Can't wait to hear McManus & Stanley. Can't wait to see Muto (while we're at it, does anyone know who Muto is? Does Muto blog? -- I guess I'll find out this week!)
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