Yeah, like I'm going to write about the whole week on this blogger. Sometimes I wonder if people actually read this stuff. Then I realize that I've kept up with Tim Cooper, Josh Smith, Jeremy Bear, Eric Robertson, Derrak Ostovic, and several others just by checking their blogger.
Sure, it seems impersonal, but it's not. When I see these guys, it's like we haven't missed a beat. It's probably time to call out Jeff Becksfort at Oregopia.com, for having the coolest site name but never updating his blog. Here's the problem with these things - I'm more likely to e-mail Becks to tell him to update his blog than I am to call him and ask how he's doing. Here's to breaking the trend and calling Becks later today! (Then I can personally ask him to update his blog!)
Jennie and I were at a cookout on Sunday with 86 people. That has to be some sort of record for Northeast Ohio. Probably ranks just short of a Firestine pig roast. Boettler Park in Green was the place, and somehow the rain held off for what was an extraordinary day for our young marrieds group.
Okay, when i say "86 people," I am including the 35 kids. No, I did NOT include the growing babies still inside their mothers, which would have pushed our total to 90.
Firestine pig roast? Well, Dave Firestine turned 30 the other day (yeah, like two months ago now, or something), and his wife Kasey threw a pig at him. They are expecging their first child in about a week. I think she's due on Labor Day. (Insert cheesy joke here.)
Well, Jennie and I are celebrating our anniversary this weekend by going to the Ohio State football game against Cincinnati! What a great wife I have! Seriously, it was her idea. Jennie's favorite football player is Justin Zwick (Ohio State's new Quarterback), because she saw him play at high school at Massillon.
Actually, Jennie's favorite football player is Brett Favre. But the facts remain, she didn't go to any of Favre's high school games.
Zwick's Buckeye debut comes just ten days after my small group went to the Indians game to see them lose in the 9th inning - what are the odds of that? I am really enjoying my small group, and we're studying the book of James. We're developing some pretty good friendships, and they can all beat me in basketball. But at least I'm updating my blog.
Speaking of odds, I am hosting a fantasy football league (can't figure out WHY), for the second year in a row. Some guys will be drafting from out of state, via instant messenger, cell phone, and pre-ranked lists of players.
Did someone say "players"? Pandora Cunningham and the LION players just returned from ministry trip to Athens, Greece. Rumor has it some athletes had been drawn to Greece lately. Anyone see the Olympics?
Rob Hardy got me a pin from the Olympics, and I still wear it! Thanks Rob!
Okay, now to the real reason you're here - Allison updates. She's cute, and she talks. She's not saying words, only vowels. "aah" "eeo" "ooe" But it is so incredibly cute and amazing to see her grow. She weighs about 13 pounds, and I'd like to lose about 13 pounds.
This morning, I walked into her room, and she was wide awake, looking at the ceiling. Shaking her arms a little. I leaned over and smiled at her, and she smiled at me. She smiled and she kicked.
Now that's something to blog about.
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
Sunday, August 22, 2004
Golf, Grill, and Groups.
The other day, I happened upon some free tickets to the practice round of Golf at the NEC Invitational here at Akron's Firestone Country Club.
I am not a golf fan. I don't even pretend to be. But it was a beautiful day, and I'd never been on this famous course that is right here in Akron's backyard. So I went.
Of course I got a huge sunburn, but it was worth it. I remember thinking, "Man, this is beautiful, relaxing, and hey - there's Tiger Woods!" Tiger Woods is a pretty good golfer, and I took several pics of him - see our photos page.
Earlier today, I was busy peeling layers of sunburnt skin off of my forehead when I stumbled haplessly upon a couple of free passes to today's final round at the NEC Inviational.
Yes, real golf. Real tournament golf. Fifty of the greatest golfers invited to this World Tournament event. I decided that, just a day after hearing our "dream team" lost to Lithuania in basketball, I needed a day at the golf course.
Usually, I need a day at the golf course like I need a hole in my head. I golf about once a year, and I don't know what words like "handicap, slice, or divot" mean. But on this 80-degree, clear day in Akron, I figured I didn't have much to lose.
My Dad and I had a great time, bumped into Jonathan Wiley, and saw Tiger and others up close. I wanted to see a pretty close finish, but Stewart Cink wouldn't allow it. Stewart, you see, is a golfer, and he pretty much shut down the competition again today. Tiger had his chances, but couldn't put very well. I remember whispering once, "Bad shot, Tiger," and thinking there's no way I could have shot that well at any time on any course in front of thousands of people either, so I have no reason to talk.
I can't golf, and a I can't grill. That's right, my grill is broke. So Jennie and I celebrated yesterday by going to two cookouts. One was for Scott Lambert's 30th birthday in Stow, and the other was our small groups cookout in Green. My grilling motto goes something like this: "Have Tabasco, will travel!"
That's right, I like it hot. I had delicious chili con queso dip at the Lambert's, which I hear is a family speciality. Then, at Dan & Jill Bahry's, I had a terrific burger off the grill.
I can't golf, and I can't play volleyball. We had volleyball at both cookouts. Dan and Jill's version was in the pool, which was a blast. (Here's about the time in a normal blogger entry where I wonder "Is this really so interesting that I have to put it on the internet?" Then I am quickly reminded by another voice inside that says, "You know, there's a lot of stuff on the net that's not interesting at all, so my post about backyard volleyball will fit right in.")
After pool volleyball and burgers, we watched the Browns pretend like they can be a good football team. I love the Browns, but I don't believe it. I think they'll be lucky to win five or six games. Then, on to to foosball table. I reflected momentarily on my college days, where we'd all hang out in the "student union" gameroom after dinner, and let the seniors thrash us in foosball.
Seemed like an eternity of getting beat on by Bryan Matheny, Gossard and Henderson, and maybe even Chris Radloff. Can't remember what that guy looked like, but I remember he was a mean foosball player. They were all mean, that is, until Dave Matheny and I got together. This is the part where I tell you that Dave and I went on to win the Grace College Foosball Fiesta Bowl or something.
I can still play foosball. Just not as good as Dan Bahry.
(Note: As this entry is coming to a close, Allie is giving me her opinion of this post, loudly filling up her diaper. She's the cutest!)
I am not a golf fan. I don't even pretend to be. But it was a beautiful day, and I'd never been on this famous course that is right here in Akron's backyard. So I went.
Of course I got a huge sunburn, but it was worth it. I remember thinking, "Man, this is beautiful, relaxing, and hey - there's Tiger Woods!" Tiger Woods is a pretty good golfer, and I took several pics of him - see our photos page.
Earlier today, I was busy peeling layers of sunburnt skin off of my forehead when I stumbled haplessly upon a couple of free passes to today's final round at the NEC Inviational.
Yes, real golf. Real tournament golf. Fifty of the greatest golfers invited to this World Tournament event. I decided that, just a day after hearing our "dream team" lost to Lithuania in basketball, I needed a day at the golf course.
Usually, I need a day at the golf course like I need a hole in my head. I golf about once a year, and I don't know what words like "handicap, slice, or divot" mean. But on this 80-degree, clear day in Akron, I figured I didn't have much to lose.
My Dad and I had a great time, bumped into Jonathan Wiley, and saw Tiger and others up close. I wanted to see a pretty close finish, but Stewart Cink wouldn't allow it. Stewart, you see, is a golfer, and he pretty much shut down the competition again today. Tiger had his chances, but couldn't put very well. I remember whispering once, "Bad shot, Tiger," and thinking there's no way I could have shot that well at any time on any course in front of thousands of people either, so I have no reason to talk.
I can't golf, and a I can't grill. That's right, my grill is broke. So Jennie and I celebrated yesterday by going to two cookouts. One was for Scott Lambert's 30th birthday in Stow, and the other was our small groups cookout in Green. My grilling motto goes something like this: "Have Tabasco, will travel!"
That's right, I like it hot. I had delicious chili con queso dip at the Lambert's, which I hear is a family speciality. Then, at Dan & Jill Bahry's, I had a terrific burger off the grill.
I can't golf, and I can't play volleyball. We had volleyball at both cookouts. Dan and Jill's version was in the pool, which was a blast. (Here's about the time in a normal blogger entry where I wonder "Is this really so interesting that I have to put it on the internet?" Then I am quickly reminded by another voice inside that says, "You know, there's a lot of stuff on the net that's not interesting at all, so my post about backyard volleyball will fit right in.")
After pool volleyball and burgers, we watched the Browns pretend like they can be a good football team. I love the Browns, but I don't believe it. I think they'll be lucky to win five or six games. Then, on to to foosball table. I reflected momentarily on my college days, where we'd all hang out in the "student union" gameroom after dinner, and let the seniors thrash us in foosball.
Seemed like an eternity of getting beat on by Bryan Matheny, Gossard and Henderson, and maybe even Chris Radloff. Can't remember what that guy looked like, but I remember he was a mean foosball player. They were all mean, that is, until Dave Matheny and I got together. This is the part where I tell you that Dave and I went on to win the Grace College Foosball Fiesta Bowl or something.
I can still play foosball. Just not as good as Dan Bahry.
(Note: As this entry is coming to a close, Allie is giving me her opinion of this post, loudly filling up her diaper. She's the cutest!)
Tuesday, August 17, 2004
Blogosophy?
The other night, my good friend Jeremy Bear and I were discussing our varying approaches to doing this thing called a blogger. A "blogger" is what you are now reading - a "web-log" of whatever someone feels like writing.
Anyhow, lately when writing this (or not), I have been hesitant and pensive, wondering if I have anything to say that is really worth reading. I mean, how many times can I write stuff about my cute baby, the latest movie I saw, and other frivolity that only the dearest friends would admit they don't care about?
Tonight, we had Bob & Lori Siffert over for dinner. Good friends of ours here in Akron who are moving soon to Ocala, Florida. I wonder if they have a Coldstone Creamery there. Anyhow, props to them for taking the plunge and heading for warmer pastures. Note: the Sifferts also think Allison is very cute. I'll have to post a couple of the pics we got tonight.
Salsa Update: Well, yesterday I made about seven batches of my incredible salsa. I try to be humble about a lot of things, but my salsa isn't one of them. This batch was made mostly with FRESH VEGGIES from Jennie's garden in our backyard - tomatoes (roma, cherry, and, uh, "Better Boy" brand or something), jalapenos, onions, and, of course - cilantro! For all you readers who think you want to try making your own salsa someday, I highly encourage the appropriate dosage of cilantro. Not cheap to buy at the store, but very cheap to grow in our yard - and it adds a BURST of flavor. I also throw in a few other additives, but no preservatives. Go figure.
I have been eating out a lot lately. Today it was "Smokin' Joe's" in North Canton. I'd never been there before, but they told me about their "hot wing" challenge. What is up with these places? They said "if you can eat a dozen of our hottest wings, you get your meal free, ten bucks cash, and your name written on our wall over there by the mirror."
("uh, you mean I could be in the smokin joe's wall of fame?")
Yeah, it's their Habanero wing sauce, and they let me try a sample of it on a toothpick. Reality is, it wasn't THAT hot. I know I could eat a dozen, and it would probably set my stomach back a few days. But why? Is this a test of my manhood?
I think there is something in us guys where we just can NOT refuse a DARE. Like the old "Truth or Dare" game. Why even play? Because we love the dare. Doesn't matter if I hate Habanero wings. Doesn't matter if my tongue would take three days and fourteen gallons of milk and sour cream to recover from the madness. Doesn't matter if my stomach burned, my hair sweats, and my throat shakes. I'm sure all the side effects in the world are worth it, just to get my name up by that mirror at Smokin' Joes.
A real man would do it.
Whatever. I'll stick to my salsa.
P.S. Allie is still a cute baby, Collateral with Tom Cruise was average and a little disturbing, and all the other frivolity has already been written.
P.S.S. Are you a Mac guy or an IBM guy? Please comment. I dare you.
Anyhow, lately when writing this (or not), I have been hesitant and pensive, wondering if I have anything to say that is really worth reading. I mean, how many times can I write stuff about my cute baby, the latest movie I saw, and other frivolity that only the dearest friends would admit they don't care about?
Tonight, we had Bob & Lori Siffert over for dinner. Good friends of ours here in Akron who are moving soon to Ocala, Florida. I wonder if they have a Coldstone Creamery there. Anyhow, props to them for taking the plunge and heading for warmer pastures. Note: the Sifferts also think Allison is very cute. I'll have to post a couple of the pics we got tonight.
Salsa Update: Well, yesterday I made about seven batches of my incredible salsa. I try to be humble about a lot of things, but my salsa isn't one of them. This batch was made mostly with FRESH VEGGIES from Jennie's garden in our backyard - tomatoes (roma, cherry, and, uh, "Better Boy" brand or something), jalapenos, onions, and, of course - cilantro! For all you readers who think you want to try making your own salsa someday, I highly encourage the appropriate dosage of cilantro. Not cheap to buy at the store, but very cheap to grow in our yard - and it adds a BURST of flavor. I also throw in a few other additives, but no preservatives. Go figure.
I have been eating out a lot lately. Today it was "Smokin' Joe's" in North Canton. I'd never been there before, but they told me about their "hot wing" challenge. What is up with these places? They said "if you can eat a dozen of our hottest wings, you get your meal free, ten bucks cash, and your name written on our wall over there by the mirror."
("uh, you mean I could be in the smokin joe's wall of fame?")
Yeah, it's their Habanero wing sauce, and they let me try a sample of it on a toothpick. Reality is, it wasn't THAT hot. I know I could eat a dozen, and it would probably set my stomach back a few days. But why? Is this a test of my manhood?
I think there is something in us guys where we just can NOT refuse a DARE. Like the old "Truth or Dare" game. Why even play? Because we love the dare. Doesn't matter if I hate Habanero wings. Doesn't matter if my tongue would take three days and fourteen gallons of milk and sour cream to recover from the madness. Doesn't matter if my stomach burned, my hair sweats, and my throat shakes. I'm sure all the side effects in the world are worth it, just to get my name up by that mirror at Smokin' Joes.
A real man would do it.
Whatever. I'll stick to my salsa.
P.S. Allie is still a cute baby, Collateral with Tom Cruise was average and a little disturbing, and all the other frivolity has already been written.
P.S.S. Are you a Mac guy or an IBM guy? Please comment. I dare you.
Friday, August 13, 2004
The Summit of things...
This week, I'm spending 2.5 days at the Willow Creek Leadership Summit. It's a yearly conference hosted by Willow Creek Community Church (www.willowcreek.org) in Chicago, but then sent live by satellite to 80 locations and about 50,000 different leaders around North America. I'm having a great time being challenged, sharpened, and getting to hang out with some terrific friends. I always look forward to this time of year.
I do tend to ramble on this blogger. Believe me, I have a lot of important things to say, I'm just not ready to say them yet. Ever felt that way? Sometimes life is like that.
Right now, I can tell Allie is like that. She has so much to say, but at only 7.5 weeks old, she really can't say any of it. What we have here is a failure to communicate. If you've seen the pictures, you know she's cuter than all get out, but she sets a new standard for "cute" every day. That is, except when she cries incessantly, which we knew would happen with our little angel. She seems to be quiet whenever we go out somewhere, which is amazing, but returns home to a world of noise.
We've got to pray for Florida right now, Hurricane Charley looks pretty incredible. Amazed to hear of a friend's relatives who are having to relocate right now, and all the chaos that is going on down there. When you see a movie like "The Day after Tomorrow," the weather effects are cool, but when it's reality, it's obviously terrible. I've always said I would love to see a real Tornado live someday, but I doubt I'd really mean it if it happens.
They are evacuating Myrtle Beach right now.
I like Columbus. Have I ever mentioned that on the blog?
Have I mentioned that this site for my journal is free, but now I have found one that might be even better? Xanga.com is very cool, might be easier to use, and is also free. I love doing Gary and Jennie.com, so we'll keep that.
I haven't written in a while, and life has been pretty busy. This past weekend, I was asked to be the "relief preacher" at The Chapel's Akron Campus, if needed. Well, I was needed, and spoke four times on Sunday. Loved every minute of it. Exhausted the next day. Stopped including subjects in my sentences.
When I write, I sometimes feel this humorous need to express myself. Sometimes, though, I wonder if my life is all that interesting. I mean, who do I think I am to have people read these random thoughts online?
But bloggers like this are becoming more and more popular, and are easy ways to keep in touch with people. Less personal, perhaps, but somewhat of a journal therapy too. I've been doing this for five months, and it is fun to look back and think about each part of the journey we've had.
Jennie is doing great as a mom. You can tell that "Mom knows best" isn't just a saying. It's amazing the connection and burden of love that a mom feels for her child. Never underestimate it. That goes for Allie, and for the child we lost last year, Laura. Allie is such a great gift, and every minute of every day is very special and just loaded with fun moments.
Like today, when I held her for the first time, and she threw up all over my dress pants. Uh, I mean, like the time when she hears my voice over the phone and broke out into a huge smile. Yes, that really did happen.
I am looking forward to the start of football season. Is there any surprise in that?
Lots more to say in future blogs, when I feel creative. Sometimes I just ramble. It is funny to find out who is reading these things. Have a great weekend!
I do tend to ramble on this blogger. Believe me, I have a lot of important things to say, I'm just not ready to say them yet. Ever felt that way? Sometimes life is like that.
Right now, I can tell Allie is like that. She has so much to say, but at only 7.5 weeks old, she really can't say any of it. What we have here is a failure to communicate. If you've seen the pictures, you know she's cuter than all get out, but she sets a new standard for "cute" every day. That is, except when she cries incessantly, which we knew would happen with our little angel. She seems to be quiet whenever we go out somewhere, which is amazing, but returns home to a world of noise.
We've got to pray for Florida right now, Hurricane Charley looks pretty incredible. Amazed to hear of a friend's relatives who are having to relocate right now, and all the chaos that is going on down there. When you see a movie like "The Day after Tomorrow," the weather effects are cool, but when it's reality, it's obviously terrible. I've always said I would love to see a real Tornado live someday, but I doubt I'd really mean it if it happens.
They are evacuating Myrtle Beach right now.
I like Columbus. Have I ever mentioned that on the blog?
Have I mentioned that this site for my journal is free, but now I have found one that might be even better? Xanga.com is very cool, might be easier to use, and is also free. I love doing Gary and Jennie.com, so we'll keep that.
I haven't written in a while, and life has been pretty busy. This past weekend, I was asked to be the "relief preacher" at The Chapel's Akron Campus, if needed. Well, I was needed, and spoke four times on Sunday. Loved every minute of it. Exhausted the next day. Stopped including subjects in my sentences.
When I write, I sometimes feel this humorous need to express myself. Sometimes, though, I wonder if my life is all that interesting. I mean, who do I think I am to have people read these random thoughts online?
But bloggers like this are becoming more and more popular, and are easy ways to keep in touch with people. Less personal, perhaps, but somewhat of a journal therapy too. I've been doing this for five months, and it is fun to look back and think about each part of the journey we've had.
Jennie is doing great as a mom. You can tell that "Mom knows best" isn't just a saying. It's amazing the connection and burden of love that a mom feels for her child. Never underestimate it. That goes for Allie, and for the child we lost last year, Laura. Allie is such a great gift, and every minute of every day is very special and just loaded with fun moments.
Like today, when I held her for the first time, and she threw up all over my dress pants. Uh, I mean, like the time when she hears my voice over the phone and broke out into a huge smile. Yes, that really did happen.
I am looking forward to the start of football season. Is there any surprise in that?
Lots more to say in future blogs, when I feel creative. Sometimes I just ramble. It is funny to find out who is reading these things. Have a great weekend!
Monday, August 09, 2004
The Melting Pot...
On Thursday night, Jennie and I celebrated our fourth anniversary! I am fortunate to have such an incredible, beautiful, and friendly wife - who laughs at everything I say. Allie is cute, but she is a distant second to Jennie, and always will be.
So we went to "The Melting Pot" restaurant up in Beechwood. This is probably our favorite restaurant of all time. They have a fondue burner at each table, and our whole meal was ours to cook! First, we had a cheese fondue (appetizer), with nacho/fiesta flavored cheeses. We dipped vegetables, bread, and tortilla chips there, and of course I added the recommended daily allowance of Tabasco. Then came the California salads, which were fare better than I had imagined. When the main course came, we could hardly believe our eyes or taste buds. A full tray of great meats (peppercorn tenderloin, chicken, salmon, steak, shrimp, and beef sat temptingly in front of us. We cooked each one in the fondue pot, and then had about 17 dipping sauces at our service. Dinner was amazing.
Dessert was not bad - a mint-chocolate fondue that was warmed up and primed for us to dip strawberries, cheesecake, brownies, and other fruits in. Totally amazing.
Truly an anniversary night out to remember. The Melting Pot can be found at www.themeltingpot.com. They have great deals and specials for anniversaries or other occasions. There's one in Cleveland (Beechwood), Columbus, and Cincinnati. I think South Bend has one too.
Mom and Dad watched Allie, but of course we called several times while we were gone. Can't get enough of that baby.
Allie has been doing great, and had a healthy doctor checkup last week, weighing in at 10 pounds, 8.5 ounces. She is starting to "coo" and seems to like to carry on that sort of conversation. It is awesome to hold her and interact with her on this basic level. We have found a way to get her smile pretty much on demand. If I hold her about 12 inches from my face, stick my tongue out, and make some silly noise, she smiles.
She smiles HUGE. And my heart melts. Love that kid.
More later on what turned out to be a pretty wild weekend for the Underwoods...
So we went to "The Melting Pot" restaurant up in Beechwood. This is probably our favorite restaurant of all time. They have a fondue burner at each table, and our whole meal was ours to cook! First, we had a cheese fondue (appetizer), with nacho/fiesta flavored cheeses. We dipped vegetables, bread, and tortilla chips there, and of course I added the recommended daily allowance of Tabasco. Then came the California salads, which were fare better than I had imagined. When the main course came, we could hardly believe our eyes or taste buds. A full tray of great meats (peppercorn tenderloin, chicken, salmon, steak, shrimp, and beef sat temptingly in front of us. We cooked each one in the fondue pot, and then had about 17 dipping sauces at our service. Dinner was amazing.
Dessert was not bad - a mint-chocolate fondue that was warmed up and primed for us to dip strawberries, cheesecake, brownies, and other fruits in. Totally amazing.
Truly an anniversary night out to remember. The Melting Pot can be found at www.themeltingpot.com. They have great deals and specials for anniversaries or other occasions. There's one in Cleveland (Beechwood), Columbus, and Cincinnati. I think South Bend has one too.
Mom and Dad watched Allie, but of course we called several times while we were gone. Can't get enough of that baby.
Allie has been doing great, and had a healthy doctor checkup last week, weighing in at 10 pounds, 8.5 ounces. She is starting to "coo" and seems to like to carry on that sort of conversation. It is awesome to hold her and interact with her on this basic level. We have found a way to get her smile pretty much on demand. If I hold her about 12 inches from my face, stick my tongue out, and make some silly noise, she smiles.
She smiles HUGE. And my heart melts. Love that kid.
More later on what turned out to be a pretty wild weekend for the Underwoods...
Thursday, July 29, 2004
Sermonizing?
Yeah, I don't mean to preach, but... Okay, sometimes, I mean to preach.
Like this Sunday. I have done it a thousand times, but whenever I get the opportunity to speak at The Chapel on a Sunday morning, it is a pretty incredible experience.
I think the preparation and just thinking about it is more intense than the actual moment.
All these thoughts and more... "Can I be true to what the Bible is saying?" "Will this be interesting for people?" "Will they feel compelled by the message to change something in their lives?" "Do I have enough cool pictures on my PowerPoint?" "Should I even use PowerPoint at all?" "Will I sweat?" "Should I stop talking for two days before this, so I can save my voice?"
In the end, it is all about God and what He wants to do.
Some of you reading this blogger have heard me, and encouraged me in this ordeal of speaking or preaching.
Others may wonder why I hardly ever talk with you about my job, and I don't bring it up much. (That sentence was redundant.)
Anyhow, I love public speaking, and I love God and people. It seems to be a good fit. But just like anything, it takes practice and hard work. In practice, I've "winged it" a few times, and then think "that was fun, but I'll need some notes."
This week I am speaking on Hebrews 10:19-25. We live in a culture that pursues independence but craves connection. We strive for individuality and ache for intimacy. Jesus Christ promises to connect us intimately to God and deeply to each other. My goal on Sunday is to get that message across in an accurate and compelling way. If people leave convicted about how they can activate depth and love in their relationships, I'll be a happy camper. (Nevermind the fact that I don't camp very often, and I don't like when people use cliche's. I will suspend said preferences in that area, and "camp happily.")
(See, some posts will be about silly movie reviews and Allie's latest development, and others are all serious and such. Thus is life, friends).
Meanwhile, on the Allison front... sometimes she cries, and it sounds like she is about to talk. Tonight, she was doing a half cry, which sounded like a soft-spoken "ell." Maybe she thinks her name is "Ellison."
Tomorrow, Denzel Washington's new movie, The Manchurian Candidate, opens. So does M.Night Shyamalan's new movie, named after a certain fantasy basketball team - "The Village."
I know one couple who saw four movies last weekend. (I know, you're thinking, "yeah, Gary, you WOULD know a couple like that - and it's probably YOU GUYS!). Nope, it's not us.
I'll let that couple remain anonymous, but also mention to you that they gave "I, Robot" a big thumbs up. Even though I didn't review it, I'd have to agree. This July has been a great month for movies. August, on the other hand... Unless you feel this urge to see every Tom Cruise movie ever made (including the upcoming "Collateral" where he plays a hit-man who 'hijacks' a taxi...), the film cupboard is bare for the rest of the summer. Which is good, because I need a break from movies.
(Whatever!)
Finally, I must mention that I love how so many of the top songs out right now seem to have spiritual themes, passion, or implications. Take Hoobastank's song "The Reason," Evanescence's "My Immortal," or Switchfoot's "Meant to Live." Can't we just sing these songs on Sunday? They're great!
Like this Sunday. I have done it a thousand times, but whenever I get the opportunity to speak at The Chapel on a Sunday morning, it is a pretty incredible experience.
I think the preparation and just thinking about it is more intense than the actual moment.
All these thoughts and more... "Can I be true to what the Bible is saying?" "Will this be interesting for people?" "Will they feel compelled by the message to change something in their lives?" "Do I have enough cool pictures on my PowerPoint?" "Should I even use PowerPoint at all?" "Will I sweat?" "Should I stop talking for two days before this, so I can save my voice?"
In the end, it is all about God and what He wants to do.
Some of you reading this blogger have heard me, and encouraged me in this ordeal of speaking or preaching.
Others may wonder why I hardly ever talk with you about my job, and I don't bring it up much. (That sentence was redundant.)
Anyhow, I love public speaking, and I love God and people. It seems to be a good fit. But just like anything, it takes practice and hard work. In practice, I've "winged it" a few times, and then think "that was fun, but I'll need some notes."
This week I am speaking on Hebrews 10:19-25. We live in a culture that pursues independence but craves connection. We strive for individuality and ache for intimacy. Jesus Christ promises to connect us intimately to God and deeply to each other. My goal on Sunday is to get that message across in an accurate and compelling way. If people leave convicted about how they can activate depth and love in their relationships, I'll be a happy camper. (Nevermind the fact that I don't camp very often, and I don't like when people use cliche's. I will suspend said preferences in that area, and "camp happily.")
(See, some posts will be about silly movie reviews and Allie's latest development, and others are all serious and such. Thus is life, friends).
Meanwhile, on the Allison front... sometimes she cries, and it sounds like she is about to talk. Tonight, she was doing a half cry, which sounded like a soft-spoken "ell." Maybe she thinks her name is "Ellison."
Tomorrow, Denzel Washington's new movie, The Manchurian Candidate, opens. So does M.Night Shyamalan's new movie, named after a certain fantasy basketball team - "The Village."
I know one couple who saw four movies last weekend. (I know, you're thinking, "yeah, Gary, you WOULD know a couple like that - and it's probably YOU GUYS!). Nope, it's not us.
I'll let that couple remain anonymous, but also mention to you that they gave "I, Robot" a big thumbs up. Even though I didn't review it, I'd have to agree. This July has been a great month for movies. August, on the other hand... Unless you feel this urge to see every Tom Cruise movie ever made (including the upcoming "Collateral" where he plays a hit-man who 'hijacks' a taxi...), the film cupboard is bare for the rest of the summer. Which is good, because I need a break from movies.
(Whatever!)
Finally, I must mention that I love how so many of the top songs out right now seem to have spiritual themes, passion, or implications. Take Hoobastank's song "The Reason," Evanescence's "My Immortal," or Switchfoot's "Meant to Live." Can't we just sing these songs on Sunday? They're great!
Sunday, July 25, 2004
Movie Review Disclaimer...
My previous post was a movie review about The Bourne Supremacy.
Because of some conversations I have with people, or comments people make, I feel I have to make the following disclaimer. I will do so in a "comment/response" format.
COMMENT (from someone else): "Gary, you seem to watch a lot of movies - don't you have better things to do with your time?"
RESPONSE: "I do enjoy movies. I enjoy a great story that is well told by a director and well-portrayed by the actors. I think movies are actually the most effective sermons to today's culture. I actually do use much of my time to do other things. I spend a lot of time at work, doing ministry and being involved in people's lives. I have changed more diapers at this point, and I always enjoy holding Allison and spending time with her - I can't get enough of that. You know I like doing a website and writing a journal online. I am also starting to workout more at the local YMCA and spending time with people. I am very satisfied with how I'm using my time right now. I see movies as a productive hobby that I enjoy. I suppose I should mow the lawn tomorrow, though."
COMMENT #2: "Gary, you like to see movies right when they open - why is that?"
RESPONSE: "I don't know. I think it's because I'm a fan of movies. Again, I think stories are the most powerful way of getting through to people - and movies are our modern-day form of storytelling. Each movie is a parable, really. If a movie preview seems especially intriguing, or I really like a certain actor or director, I am excited to see it."
COMMENT #3: "Gary, I hear you go to some movies by yourself - what's up with that?"
RESPONSE: "I'd prefer to go with Jennie (my wife), and she has gone to more movies with me than not lately. An astute friend encouraged us to see two movies on the weekend before we had Allison, and we are glad we took his advice. We had a great time together. Just to be honest, there are some movies that Jennie doesn't like. She doesn't like action as much, and she doesn't like scary scenes or thriller movies.
I am also an only child, so I don't mind doing certain things by myself. I don't mind sitting in the theater by myself."
COMMENT #4: "Do you really think we care what you think of a movie?"
RESPONSE: "No, but it is a very easy way to start up a conversation. Especially with meeting new people, movies are often a great connection point. An easy way to start talking. I used to connect more in conversations about sports, but I'm getting tired of that."
COMMENT #5: "Tired of sports? Are you an idiot?"
RESPONSE: "No, I am not an idiot. I am just tired of talking sports sometimes. Maybe it's part of being a Cleveland fan. I'm tired of the same conversations about how things never go our way. I'd rather see Will Smith kill some robots than watch the Indians blow a lead late in the game for the 100th time."
Because of some conversations I have with people, or comments people make, I feel I have to make the following disclaimer. I will do so in a "comment/response" format.
COMMENT (from someone else): "Gary, you seem to watch a lot of movies - don't you have better things to do with your time?"
RESPONSE: "I do enjoy movies. I enjoy a great story that is well told by a director and well-portrayed by the actors. I think movies are actually the most effective sermons to today's culture. I actually do use much of my time to do other things. I spend a lot of time at work, doing ministry and being involved in people's lives. I have changed more diapers at this point, and I always enjoy holding Allison and spending time with her - I can't get enough of that. You know I like doing a website and writing a journal online. I am also starting to workout more at the local YMCA and spending time with people. I am very satisfied with how I'm using my time right now. I see movies as a productive hobby that I enjoy. I suppose I should mow the lawn tomorrow, though."
COMMENT #2: "Gary, you like to see movies right when they open - why is that?"
RESPONSE: "I don't know. I think it's because I'm a fan of movies. Again, I think stories are the most powerful way of getting through to people - and movies are our modern-day form of storytelling. Each movie is a parable, really. If a movie preview seems especially intriguing, or I really like a certain actor or director, I am excited to see it."
COMMENT #3: "Gary, I hear you go to some movies by yourself - what's up with that?"
RESPONSE: "I'd prefer to go with Jennie (my wife), and she has gone to more movies with me than not lately. An astute friend encouraged us to see two movies on the weekend before we had Allison, and we are glad we took his advice. We had a great time together. Just to be honest, there are some movies that Jennie doesn't like. She doesn't like action as much, and she doesn't like scary scenes or thriller movies.
I am also an only child, so I don't mind doing certain things by myself. I don't mind sitting in the theater by myself."
COMMENT #4: "Do you really think we care what you think of a movie?"
RESPONSE: "No, but it is a very easy way to start up a conversation. Especially with meeting new people, movies are often a great connection point. An easy way to start talking. I used to connect more in conversations about sports, but I'm getting tired of that."
COMMENT #5: "Tired of sports? Are you an idiot?"
RESPONSE: "No, I am not an idiot. I am just tired of talking sports sometimes. Maybe it's part of being a Cleveland fan. I'm tired of the same conversations about how things never go our way. I'd rather see Will Smith kill some robots than watch the Indians blow a lead late in the game for the 100th time."
Saturday, July 24, 2004
The Bourne Supremacy...
If you don't like exciting and engaging and suspensful plots, don't bother seeing it. If you prefer seeing subpar acting and characters that are not well developed, spend your five bucks elsewhere. If you'd rather see poor camera work, slow-paced drama, or unrealistic action scenes, watch something else.
The latest film chapter in the Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) series is getting terrific reviews from all over the country, and add mine to the list.
I know several couples who made a point to watch the first movie (The Bourne Identity) before going to see The Bourne Supremacy. I highly recommend that, because the sequel plays off the first movie a lot. You can fully understand and enjoy either movie on its own, but they are very well connected.
In the first movie, Bourne is some sort of high-ranking, super-intelligent one-man weapon for the CIA. He suffers from strong case of amnesia, and completely forgets who he is and what he is doing.
The sequel shows him on a mission to not only find out more about his life and CIA exploits, but to also chase down the CIA operatives who are actually out to kill him.
Since this is my first movie review that you people are reading, I don't want to give any of the major plot events or surprises away. Let's just say that there are many twists and surprises.
Matt Damon does a great job of playing an intense, focused, and sometimes compassionate Jason Bourne. We get more glimpses of Bourne's personality and emotional life, which are almost as memorable as his incredible driving skills.
One thing you'll notice about the movie is the choppy camerawork. Several people have criticized the film for the too-rapid, too-diverse, too-small angles taken by the camera. I'll admit, my eyes needed a rest after the movie, because there was a lot of action shown in a more "rushed" way. Maybe you'll like that about the film - I guess the director said something like, "When the characters are in a hurry, we want the audience to feel rushed like they are." So true.
In contrast to a lot of the recent action films, this movie is very realistic. Bourne appeals to audiences as a modern-day, real-life hero - not some pimple-faced geek who shoots spider webs out of his wrists. This movie is filmed in real-life places that are fun to visit on the big screen - like Moscow, Berlin, India, and Italy. It's worth watching just for the scenery.
If you liked the first movie, I think you'll love the second, and I highly recommend seeing it in the theater. If you don't like action, international intrigue, great escapes and fight scenes, it's maybe not for you.
On a side note, I remember the movie as being very "clean." I didn't have to look away from the screen, and I can't remember any foul language. I'm sure it was in there, but not much (if any).
Would I go out of my way to see it again? Probably.
RATING: 3.5 stars. I want to give it 4 stars, and maybe it deserves that. If I see it again, maybe it will get a better grade, but I like it better than Spiderman 2 or I, Robot.
Other ratings:
The Terminal (Tom Hanks) 2.9 stars
Dodgeball (Ben Stiller) 2.9 stars
I, Robot (Will Smith) 3.25 stars
Spiderman 2 (Tobey Maguire) 3.3 stars
The latest film chapter in the Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) series is getting terrific reviews from all over the country, and add mine to the list.
I know several couples who made a point to watch the first movie (The Bourne Identity) before going to see The Bourne Supremacy. I highly recommend that, because the sequel plays off the first movie a lot. You can fully understand and enjoy either movie on its own, but they are very well connected.
In the first movie, Bourne is some sort of high-ranking, super-intelligent one-man weapon for the CIA. He suffers from strong case of amnesia, and completely forgets who he is and what he is doing.
The sequel shows him on a mission to not only find out more about his life and CIA exploits, but to also chase down the CIA operatives who are actually out to kill him.
Since this is my first movie review that you people are reading, I don't want to give any of the major plot events or surprises away. Let's just say that there are many twists and surprises.
Matt Damon does a great job of playing an intense, focused, and sometimes compassionate Jason Bourne. We get more glimpses of Bourne's personality and emotional life, which are almost as memorable as his incredible driving skills.
One thing you'll notice about the movie is the choppy camerawork. Several people have criticized the film for the too-rapid, too-diverse, too-small angles taken by the camera. I'll admit, my eyes needed a rest after the movie, because there was a lot of action shown in a more "rushed" way. Maybe you'll like that about the film - I guess the director said something like, "When the characters are in a hurry, we want the audience to feel rushed like they are." So true.
In contrast to a lot of the recent action films, this movie is very realistic. Bourne appeals to audiences as a modern-day, real-life hero - not some pimple-faced geek who shoots spider webs out of his wrists. This movie is filmed in real-life places that are fun to visit on the big screen - like Moscow, Berlin, India, and Italy. It's worth watching just for the scenery.
If you liked the first movie, I think you'll love the second, and I highly recommend seeing it in the theater. If you don't like action, international intrigue, great escapes and fight scenes, it's maybe not for you.
On a side note, I remember the movie as being very "clean." I didn't have to look away from the screen, and I can't remember any foul language. I'm sure it was in there, but not much (if any).
Would I go out of my way to see it again? Probably.
RATING: 3.5 stars. I want to give it 4 stars, and maybe it deserves that. If I see it again, maybe it will get a better grade, but I like it better than Spiderman 2 or I, Robot.
Other ratings:
The Terminal (Tom Hanks) 2.9 stars
Dodgeball (Ben Stiller) 2.9 stars
I, Robot (Will Smith) 3.25 stars
Spiderman 2 (Tobey Maguire) 3.3 stars
Thursday, July 22, 2004
Allie's Day Out
As Jennie tries to rock Allison to sleep, I thought I'd write you a few blurbs about Allie's adventures in North Canton today.
Let me start by explaining that now, when you click on "mutterings" at our homepage, you arrive at a blogger/journal site which gets you the same fun updates, at no cost to me. In fact, because blogger.com allows me to journal on their site, I can post more pictures on our website. If you haven't checked the photos from today, you're missing out on some VERY cute events.
Tom, Christie and Turner Burns were in town. They are our great friends from Hilliard, Ohio. Tom was my best man, and I was his. They came up this morning, and spent the day with us here in Green.
We went to lunch at... (can you guess) RED ROBIN!!! Yep, it has been one of our favorite non-Mexican restaurants over the last six months. Sadly, their prices went up, and I paid about $8 for their "5-Alarm Burger." The "5-Alarm" burger is their attempt at heat, including a couple of jalapenos and some pepperjack cheese. While the burger was very good, and the fries were... bottomless? Uh, I don't think that burger was hot enough to set off any alarms, per se. Then again, I'd eat Jalapenos and Tabasco on my oatmeal every morning if I thought of it.
Anyhow, Turner Burns is a real treat. He chased me around the house, kissed my daughter (without asking), and let me play with his toys. At about 2.25 years old, Turner is extremely cute, adventuresome, and articulate. I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. It was great to see Honus, and spend a lazy-fun day together.
It is funny how, now that we have kids... a day together means "let's get together and watch our kids!" A few months ago, I would have thought that might be boring... but it was a terrific time. I guess we are indeed growing up around here.
I mentioned that Turner is smart, but this kid is off the charts. Somehow, this post-toddler suggested that we should all go to ice cream after Red Robin. He must have known that we were only a few hundred feet from Coldstone Creamery.
I really shouldn't have had ice cream. About 10 minutes after eating our cheesecake-flavored ice cream with Reese's and Cookie Dough, my mouth lost the good taste and my stomach felt horrible. Is Ice Cream really worth it?
I confess that I sometimes fall pray to the "instant gratification" thing.
Jennie notes that I like to see movies on opening night. Even if that was a criticism, we're still planning on seeing "The Bourne Supremacy" as it opens tomorrow night.
Oh yeah, Allison slept through our lunch and our Coldstone trip. She's asleep already - Jennie has the magic touch. Guess it's our turn to turn in.
Enjoy the pics on our site, and don't give in to ice cream urge.
Let me start by explaining that now, when you click on "mutterings" at our homepage, you arrive at a blogger/journal site which gets you the same fun updates, at no cost to me. In fact, because blogger.com allows me to journal on their site, I can post more pictures on our website. If you haven't checked the photos from today, you're missing out on some VERY cute events.
Tom, Christie and Turner Burns were in town. They are our great friends from Hilliard, Ohio. Tom was my best man, and I was his. They came up this morning, and spent the day with us here in Green.
We went to lunch at... (can you guess) RED ROBIN!!! Yep, it has been one of our favorite non-Mexican restaurants over the last six months. Sadly, their prices went up, and I paid about $8 for their "5-Alarm Burger." The "5-Alarm" burger is their attempt at heat, including a couple of jalapenos and some pepperjack cheese. While the burger was very good, and the fries were... bottomless? Uh, I don't think that burger was hot enough to set off any alarms, per se. Then again, I'd eat Jalapenos and Tabasco on my oatmeal every morning if I thought of it.
Anyhow, Turner Burns is a real treat. He chased me around the house, kissed my daughter (without asking), and let me play with his toys. At about 2.25 years old, Turner is extremely cute, adventuresome, and articulate. I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. It was great to see Honus, and spend a lazy-fun day together.
It is funny how, now that we have kids... a day together means "let's get together and watch our kids!" A few months ago, I would have thought that might be boring... but it was a terrific time. I guess we are indeed growing up around here.
I mentioned that Turner is smart, but this kid is off the charts. Somehow, this post-toddler suggested that we should all go to ice cream after Red Robin. He must have known that we were only a few hundred feet from Coldstone Creamery.
I really shouldn't have had ice cream. About 10 minutes after eating our cheesecake-flavored ice cream with Reese's and Cookie Dough, my mouth lost the good taste and my stomach felt horrible. Is Ice Cream really worth it?
I confess that I sometimes fall pray to the "instant gratification" thing.
Jennie notes that I like to see movies on opening night. Even if that was a criticism, we're still planning on seeing "The Bourne Supremacy" as it opens tomorrow night.
Oh yeah, Allison slept through our lunch and our Coldstone trip. She's asleep already - Jennie has the magic touch. Guess it's our turn to turn in.
Enjoy the pics on our site, and don't give in to ice cream urge.
Tuesday, July 20, 2004
Sickness?
Yeah, right now Jennie is sick, and has been for a few days now. I guess she can't take anything for it - except Tylenol for the headache - because it would affect the breastfeeding scenario.
Notice how, in the above paragraph, I explained that Tylenol is a drug that is used to cure headaches. And you didn't think reading my blogger would be educational.
Uh, speaking of education, I guess I am going after some. Because I wanted some sort of challenge, discipline, and further training in leadership, preaching, and ministry, I have applied for (and been accepted into) the Doctor of Ministry degree program at Denver Seminary.
I suppose it doesn't hurt that our friends Tim & Suzanne Cooper are moving to Denver as well, in less than two weeks. I can't believe it - less than two weeks! Major props to you guys for "taking the plunge" and heading towards full-time ministry. I wouldn't trade my on-campus seminary experience for anything, and I know you guys will be challenged and encouraged more than ever before.
So, I like Denver because it has the Coopers, some terrific professors (like Haddon Robinson and Erwin McManus), and incredible scenery (mountains). Jennie and I might try to sandwich a vacation around one of my classes there in the next 3-4 years. You know what they say, "When in Denver..."
My first class is January 10-14, 2004 - but the reading and research starts now. I have been getting books on eBay, and have almost finished two books already.
If you haven't guessed, I do love to read, and I am on kind of a roll right now. Books I am currently actually trying to finish right now include...
- Sacred Parenting - by Gary Thomas - a great book for parents about how God uses the parenting process to build your own character, faith, and attitude in many ways. I'm currently on chapter 4, and reading through this with a small group of guys.
- The Search to Belong - by Joe Myers - after seeing this book several times in stores and thinking I should read it some day, this book wound up as required reading material in my first class with Denver. I got it today, and am already on page 90. A thought-provoking book so far, that I'll probably post more thoughts on in the future.
- Angels and Demons - by Dan Brown - the prequel to Da Vinci Code, and I'm a third of the way through this one. This one deals with an ancient society of scientists called the "Illuminati" and their long-time vendetta against the Catholic church. So far, this book is just as exciting and engaging as The Da Vinci Code, but with fewer characters and fewer secret codes or mysteries.
- The Journey Toward Relevance - by Kary Oberbrunner - just a few chapters left, I just keep forgetting to bring it with me to the YCMA. I like to read as I ride the bike. Kary's book gives us a good framework for thinking about how we interact with culture today.
Yikes - I guess that's enough for now. I also read the Bible, and am studying James and some of the Old Testament prophets.
Notice how, in the above paragraph, I explained that Tylenol is a drug that is used to cure headaches. And you didn't think reading my blogger would be educational.
Uh, speaking of education, I guess I am going after some. Because I wanted some sort of challenge, discipline, and further training in leadership, preaching, and ministry, I have applied for (and been accepted into) the Doctor of Ministry degree program at Denver Seminary.
I suppose it doesn't hurt that our friends Tim & Suzanne Cooper are moving to Denver as well, in less than two weeks. I can't believe it - less than two weeks! Major props to you guys for "taking the plunge" and heading towards full-time ministry. I wouldn't trade my on-campus seminary experience for anything, and I know you guys will be challenged and encouraged more than ever before.
So, I like Denver because it has the Coopers, some terrific professors (like Haddon Robinson and Erwin McManus), and incredible scenery (mountains). Jennie and I might try to sandwich a vacation around one of my classes there in the next 3-4 years. You know what they say, "When in Denver..."
My first class is January 10-14, 2004 - but the reading and research starts now. I have been getting books on eBay, and have almost finished two books already.
If you haven't guessed, I do love to read, and I am on kind of a roll right now. Books I am currently actually trying to finish right now include...
- Sacred Parenting - by Gary Thomas - a great book for parents about how God uses the parenting process to build your own character, faith, and attitude in many ways. I'm currently on chapter 4, and reading through this with a small group of guys.
- The Search to Belong - by Joe Myers - after seeing this book several times in stores and thinking I should read it some day, this book wound up as required reading material in my first class with Denver. I got it today, and am already on page 90. A thought-provoking book so far, that I'll probably post more thoughts on in the future.
- Angels and Demons - by Dan Brown - the prequel to Da Vinci Code, and I'm a third of the way through this one. This one deals with an ancient society of scientists called the "Illuminati" and their long-time vendetta against the Catholic church. So far, this book is just as exciting and engaging as The Da Vinci Code, but with fewer characters and fewer secret codes or mysteries.
- The Journey Toward Relevance - by Kary Oberbrunner - just a few chapters left, I just keep forgetting to bring it with me to the YCMA. I like to read as I ride the bike. Kary's book gives us a good framework for thinking about how we interact with culture today.
Yikes - I guess that's enough for now. I also read the Bible, and am studying James and some of the Old Testament prophets.
Saturday, July 17, 2004
Highs and Lows... The Story of Us
I remember "The Story of Us" starring Bruce Willis and Michelle Pfeiffer. Jennie and I rented it because it looked like a good movie about marriage and all of the ups and downs a couple goes through.
Well, there's several scenes in the movie where they show the family at the dinner table, and each one shares their "highs" and "lows" for the day. It seems like a very cool tradition.
Before I share a few highs and lows, I'll just put this sort of disclaimer - that movie isn't very good, and has a fair amount of language. If you do choose to watch it, it is (I think) a realistic look at a non-christian marriage.
So, I guess here are a few of the "highs" from this past week....
- Tom & Marcia Bennardo and their daughters Lauren and Lindsey were here this afternoon. Tom is a long-time friend and pastor of mine, and they have been in Hilliard (NW Columbus) for about 8-9 years, planting and leading Life Community Church. We had Subway with them, gave them a tour of The Chapel's Green Campus, and - oh yeah - introduced them to Allie. Allie rules.
- Allie is one of the "highs" from every day. Right now Jennie has her in a bright-white outfit that actually looks like she's some angel (and she is). Strangely, it looks like she's dressed for a wedding, but we hope that's a few decades off. Allie still cannot smile on purpose yet, but is incredibly cute and has no need for such petty facial expressions. She is an awesome gift from God, and we are grateful and having a terrific time with her. I actually enjoy changing diapers. Who would have thought? Even the noise she makes when she poops is cute.
- I saw "I, Robot" yesterday, starring Will Smith. Jennie points out that I like to see movies when they open, as I always have to be the first to know. I plea guilty to that, and I'll add that "I, Robot" was really a great time for me. I love sci-fi-future-tech movies, but only if they are well developed and seem somewhat realistic. This movie was all that and more, with Will Smith doing a great job as the lead.
- Apparently Terry Pluto and his terrific wife, Roberta, are going to be our guests for a Young Marrieds event at The Chapel on Friday, September 24th. Terry is a sportswriter and author at The Akron Beacon Journal, and has a very strong faith as well. He and Roberta do jail ministry together.
- My friends Matthew & Kristi Harrelson had their baby, Kendra Nicole, last week. It was awesome to see them at City Hospital with their new daughter and her older sister, Kaitlyn. Matthew is in a men's small group with me, and I've enjoyed getting to know them over the last year or so. He is also a strong Michigan fan, having grown up in that state up north. Pray about that for me, will you?
Some of the "lows"?
- Well, Cleveland is in uproar over Carlos Boozer's breaking his word with the Cleveland Cavs and signing with Utah. This is a huge loss for the Cavs and for the NBA. We fans still like to think of our team and players as "good guys," but very few of them really are. It's all about the money - it's a business - as much as we "purists" like to delude ourselves. I am still a fan, but I don't expect these guys to behave as examples for the rest of us. As Terry wrote this week, "Don't let the millionaires ruin your day."
- Another "low" for me might just be a "high" for Jennie. Our beloved Sony PlayStation 2 is out of commission. Apparently, it skips now, pauses and gets stuck, and may have ruined a few of our games. (Don't worry, I only play one game really, and I don't even play it that much). The PS2 is also a DVD player that we use a lot. The good news is that the Sony corporation is going to repair it for FREE. I don't have a warranty, I don't have a receipt. They don't care. They are going to repair it for free, and send it back to me in 15-20 days. So, the "low" is that I can't play my game, but for Jennie, that is a possible "high."
- I am having another "low" as I try to get back into a consistent workout regiment. I went to the YMCA five times this week, in an attempt to jumpstart some sort of physical improvement. However, I am realizing it is going to take weeks and weeks of consistency to get back to where I want to be. It's all about self-discipline, and this is only the beginning... again. Jennie said today she can already see a difference, which is nice.
- I usually feel "low" when Allison cries for no apparent reason. Babies do that sometimes, you know. And about 47 people have told me things like "all babies need to cry - it builds up their lung strength." Fine, but it still stinks to see your little daughter cry. No, I don't pick her up just to stop her from crying, but it still is hard. That's all I'm saying. Hearing her cry is definitely not one of my day's happier moments. Sometimes it is pretty funny, though. You can tell when she's crying for attention. The term "crybaby" is a lot more meaningful these days."
Well, there's several scenes in the movie where they show the family at the dinner table, and each one shares their "highs" and "lows" for the day. It seems like a very cool tradition.
Before I share a few highs and lows, I'll just put this sort of disclaimer - that movie isn't very good, and has a fair amount of language. If you do choose to watch it, it is (I think) a realistic look at a non-christian marriage.
So, I guess here are a few of the "highs" from this past week....
- Tom & Marcia Bennardo and their daughters Lauren and Lindsey were here this afternoon. Tom is a long-time friend and pastor of mine, and they have been in Hilliard (NW Columbus) for about 8-9 years, planting and leading Life Community Church. We had Subway with them, gave them a tour of The Chapel's Green Campus, and - oh yeah - introduced them to Allie. Allie rules.
- Allie is one of the "highs" from every day. Right now Jennie has her in a bright-white outfit that actually looks like she's some angel (and she is). Strangely, it looks like she's dressed for a wedding, but we hope that's a few decades off. Allie still cannot smile on purpose yet, but is incredibly cute and has no need for such petty facial expressions. She is an awesome gift from God, and we are grateful and having a terrific time with her. I actually enjoy changing diapers. Who would have thought? Even the noise she makes when she poops is cute.
- I saw "I, Robot" yesterday, starring Will Smith. Jennie points out that I like to see movies when they open, as I always have to be the first to know. I plea guilty to that, and I'll add that "I, Robot" was really a great time for me. I love sci-fi-future-tech movies, but only if they are well developed and seem somewhat realistic. This movie was all that and more, with Will Smith doing a great job as the lead.
- Apparently Terry Pluto and his terrific wife, Roberta, are going to be our guests for a Young Marrieds event at The Chapel on Friday, September 24th. Terry is a sportswriter and author at The Akron Beacon Journal, and has a very strong faith as well. He and Roberta do jail ministry together.
- My friends Matthew & Kristi Harrelson had their baby, Kendra Nicole, last week. It was awesome to see them at City Hospital with their new daughter and her older sister, Kaitlyn. Matthew is in a men's small group with me, and I've enjoyed getting to know them over the last year or so. He is also a strong Michigan fan, having grown up in that state up north. Pray about that for me, will you?
Some of the "lows"?
- Well, Cleveland is in uproar over Carlos Boozer's breaking his word with the Cleveland Cavs and signing with Utah. This is a huge loss for the Cavs and for the NBA. We fans still like to think of our team and players as "good guys," but very few of them really are. It's all about the money - it's a business - as much as we "purists" like to delude ourselves. I am still a fan, but I don't expect these guys to behave as examples for the rest of us. As Terry wrote this week, "Don't let the millionaires ruin your day."
- Another "low" for me might just be a "high" for Jennie. Our beloved Sony PlayStation 2 is out of commission. Apparently, it skips now, pauses and gets stuck, and may have ruined a few of our games. (Don't worry, I only play one game really, and I don't even play it that much). The PS2 is also a DVD player that we use a lot. The good news is that the Sony corporation is going to repair it for FREE. I don't have a warranty, I don't have a receipt. They don't care. They are going to repair it for free, and send it back to me in 15-20 days. So, the "low" is that I can't play my game, but for Jennie, that is a possible "high."
- I am having another "low" as I try to get back into a consistent workout regiment. I went to the YMCA five times this week, in an attempt to jumpstart some sort of physical improvement. However, I am realizing it is going to take weeks and weeks of consistency to get back to where I want to be. It's all about self-discipline, and this is only the beginning... again. Jennie said today she can already see a difference, which is nice.
- I usually feel "low" when Allison cries for no apparent reason. Babies do that sometimes, you know. And about 47 people have told me things like "all babies need to cry - it builds up their lung strength." Fine, but it still stinks to see your little daughter cry. No, I don't pick her up just to stop her from crying, but it still is hard. That's all I'm saying. Hearing her cry is definitely not one of my day's happier moments. Sometimes it is pretty funny, though. You can tell when she's crying for attention. The term "crybaby" is a lot more meaningful these days."
Wednesday, July 14, 2004
The All-Star Game?
I don't really watch it anymore. Some friends of mine went to Quaker Steak and had wings while watching the game. That's a worthwhile event.
During last night's midsummer "classic," Jennie and I took Allie on her first trip to a Mexican restaurant. This was quite a moment, and all our friends at Pancho's restaurant loved finally meeting our daughter. We were hoping Allie would actually sleep through the whole ordeal, like she did our trip to the mall and shopping at Kohl's.
No such luck.
For the first 45 minutes or so, Allie was really awake, cute, and looking at the funny pictures of Jalapenos on the wall. Smart girl.
After that, it was clear she was "too tired" yet again. Allison sometimes forgets to sleep, you see, and so for the next half-hour or so, Jennie had a baby in one hand, and a guacamole-beef nacho in the other hand.
Some of you are reading this going, "Gary, don't you know you're supposed to hold Allison then so Jennie can relax and eat her nachos for once after having Allie with her all day?"
Right. You try taking a crying 3-week old from her mother at dinnertime! (ha ha)
Jennie loves holding her, as do I. I also think Jennie wanted to show off the fact that she can calm Allie down while calming her own appetite as well. My wife is quite talented.
Anyhow, Pancho's has great food, and I love going there with family and friends.
Overall, I can't believe it has been three weeks and things are so smooth in parenting so far. I am in NO RUSH for her to grow up, as much as I'd like to see her start smiling when she's AWAKE.
Let's take this Daddy business one page at a time, and enjoy every moment. I love Jennie and Allie to pieces. That sounds like a destructive type of love. "Love them to pieces."
You know what I meant.
During last night's midsummer "classic," Jennie and I took Allie on her first trip to a Mexican restaurant. This was quite a moment, and all our friends at Pancho's restaurant loved finally meeting our daughter. We were hoping Allie would actually sleep through the whole ordeal, like she did our trip to the mall and shopping at Kohl's.
No such luck.
For the first 45 minutes or so, Allie was really awake, cute, and looking at the funny pictures of Jalapenos on the wall. Smart girl.
After that, it was clear she was "too tired" yet again. Allison sometimes forgets to sleep, you see, and so for the next half-hour or so, Jennie had a baby in one hand, and a guacamole-beef nacho in the other hand.
Some of you are reading this going, "Gary, don't you know you're supposed to hold Allison then so Jennie can relax and eat her nachos for once after having Allie with her all day?"
Right. You try taking a crying 3-week old from her mother at dinnertime! (ha ha)
Jennie loves holding her, as do I. I also think Jennie wanted to show off the fact that she can calm Allie down while calming her own appetite as well. My wife is quite talented.
Anyhow, Pancho's has great food, and I love going there with family and friends.
Overall, I can't believe it has been three weeks and things are so smooth in parenting so far. I am in NO RUSH for her to grow up, as much as I'd like to see her start smiling when she's AWAKE.
Let's take this Daddy business one page at a time, and enjoy every moment. I love Jennie and Allie to pieces. That sounds like a destructive type of love. "Love them to pieces."
You know what I meant.
Monday, July 05, 2004
Sometimes I wonder...
I wonder if people are reading this blogger/journal, or if they are still hoping I'll update the mutterings on our homepage. This really is the best option, and I hope people find it.
I wonder if people will get sick of me talking about my daughter Allison, either online or in person. Not that I'll stop, though.
I wonder if I should quit doing fantasy football this year. I love the guys in my league, but I'd rather not spend my Sunday afternoons hoping Domanick Davis gets into the end zone.
I wonder why Christians are so bothered by The Da Vinci Code. It is an excellent book that is obviously fiction. If the biblical controversies raised by the author cause more people to test their faith, that should be a huge positive. Of course there are already three Christian authors out with books that offer all the answers.
Meanwhile, The Da Vinci Code is an excellent and entertaining work that I read and finished last week. I couldn't put the thing down. Chapters were short, engaging, and suspenseful from start to finish. Characters were extremely well-developed, and the plot-twists were surprising.
I also wonder when we'll stop getting upset at non-Christians for their views. The author of said "Code" offers a plot that challenges traditional Christianity and Catholicism in a subtle, memorable way. Why not embrace the challenge and enter the discussion? A friend of mine got the audiobook (unabridged) from the library, and listened to it while driving around town on the job. It inspired him to study the origins of our modern Bible, how the text was protected and preserved by the Church, and become more solid in what he already believed. I confess I've had the same response to reading The Da Vinci Code. I got out some of my seminary notebooks, read a bunch of the Old Testament, and feel a much-renewed desire to study (and yes, defend) what I believe.
I wonder if Allison will like to read as much as Jennie and I do. I know you all think she's going to be a Buckeye-watching, fantasy-sport playing, movie-critiquing fiend just to win dad's approval. (ha ha). That couldn't be further from the truth. Last week, in one of our few quiet moments, Allie and I read the first few chapters of Proverbs and the book of Ruth. She was thoroughly engaged.
I can end this rant by saying... it seems like people who don't read, don't grow. That sounds simplistic and strong, but it's pretty true. I could take it one step further and say it really helps to read about things and people that view life differently than you do, as I described in The Da Vinci Code.
On a personal note, I think the timing of Allison's arrival, coupled with the stuff I've been reading lately, is pretty interesting. This is the time of year when I barely watch TV, because there are no sports on that I like. The Indians are getting better and have four all-stars, but I'm just not interested.
Usually this time of year is a downer for a sports fan like me, but maybe this time it's an eye-opener. In other words, life has been incredible these last two weeks, and I haven't missed it.
Uh, Allison is waking up now... I guess I'll talk at you later. Thanks for reading - post comments below if you want, especially on the Da Vinci thoughts or reading...
I wonder if people will get sick of me talking about my daughter Allison, either online or in person. Not that I'll stop, though.
I wonder if I should quit doing fantasy football this year. I love the guys in my league, but I'd rather not spend my Sunday afternoons hoping Domanick Davis gets into the end zone.
I wonder why Christians are so bothered by The Da Vinci Code. It is an excellent book that is obviously fiction. If the biblical controversies raised by the author cause more people to test their faith, that should be a huge positive. Of course there are already three Christian authors out with books that offer all the answers.
Meanwhile, The Da Vinci Code is an excellent and entertaining work that I read and finished last week. I couldn't put the thing down. Chapters were short, engaging, and suspenseful from start to finish. Characters were extremely well-developed, and the plot-twists were surprising.
I also wonder when we'll stop getting upset at non-Christians for their views. The author of said "Code" offers a plot that challenges traditional Christianity and Catholicism in a subtle, memorable way. Why not embrace the challenge and enter the discussion? A friend of mine got the audiobook (unabridged) from the library, and listened to it while driving around town on the job. It inspired him to study the origins of our modern Bible, how the text was protected and preserved by the Church, and become more solid in what he already believed. I confess I've had the same response to reading The Da Vinci Code. I got out some of my seminary notebooks, read a bunch of the Old Testament, and feel a much-renewed desire to study (and yes, defend) what I believe.
I wonder if Allison will like to read as much as Jennie and I do. I know you all think she's going to be a Buckeye-watching, fantasy-sport playing, movie-critiquing fiend just to win dad's approval. (ha ha). That couldn't be further from the truth. Last week, in one of our few quiet moments, Allie and I read the first few chapters of Proverbs and the book of Ruth. She was thoroughly engaged.
I can end this rant by saying... it seems like people who don't read, don't grow. That sounds simplistic and strong, but it's pretty true. I could take it one step further and say it really helps to read about things and people that view life differently than you do, as I described in The Da Vinci Code.
On a personal note, I think the timing of Allison's arrival, coupled with the stuff I've been reading lately, is pretty interesting. This is the time of year when I barely watch TV, because there are no sports on that I like. The Indians are getting better and have four all-stars, but I'm just not interested.
Usually this time of year is a downer for a sports fan like me, but maybe this time it's an eye-opener. In other words, life has been incredible these last two weeks, and I haven't missed it.
Uh, Allison is waking up now... I guess I'll talk at you later. Thanks for reading - post comments below if you want, especially on the Da Vinci thoughts or reading...
Thursday, July 01, 2004
Allison, Jennie, and Leonardo.
Before I start, I must apologize for the website lately. Many of you logged on to find the kind words "BANDWIDTH LIMIT EXCEEDED" and at the worst possible time! I have contacted my host for our website, and plan to up the bandwidth. A couple of weeks ago, I saw a bumper sticker on a dude's car that said "Tekkie: Will work for bandwidth" - and now I know why.
Well, I can't believe how fast the first NINE days of my daughter's life have gone. Time flies too fast these days. She is doing great, and already loves Ohio State. I'll have to add a couple of her pics to our website.
Allison is doing great, and she's regained the weight that she lost. She looks so much different or older than her pictures from the hospital. If you want to see the actual hospital pics, they're at www.growingfamily.com, click on their "WebNursery."
I will probably do a few mutterings on the homepage until I figure out how to post pics to this blogger. This is a lot easier.
Jennie and I have slept pretty well at night, but overall she is exhausted. I don't know how she has done it, and I am amazed and blessed to have such a great wife and now a great mother for my kids. Allison is so incredibly cute to hold, snuggle with, and play with already. Any time I know we are going to get visitors at our house, I sing her a song with their names in it. She seemed to like the "Chadd and Cory song" that I did two days ago.
On Tuesday, Bill & Kim Underwood (my cousins) stopped by with their three kids - Jacob, Bryn, and Reagan. That was a whirling dervish of a visit. We love Bill & Kim, and I dearly love their kids too. But I realized how "orderly" and "protective" I am of my own stuff - or Allison's stuff, for that matter. Maybe I'll grow out of that. Jennie and I would love to have more children someday, but right now we are overjoyed and loving the one God has given us now.
Our friends have been tremendous - bringing food, mowing our lawn, trimming our grass, and visiting to say hello and love on Allie. God has really blessed Jennie and me beyond our ability to recognize. We are grateful and honored in so many ways!
Some things I used to do in my free time will now have to die. Rest assured, the webpage is not one of them. I am talking about some of my sports hobby. Let's rip away the chaff of watching sports on TV. If it's not Ohio State football, then I don't have to see it. Even if it is Ohio State football, you'd think I'd have my fix by now with two Fiesta Bowl victories and one national championship in the last two years.
Leonardo? Yes, I'm almost finished reading the Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. Maybe I'll do a review of it on our website or on this blogger. Right now, it is a thrilling book to read, and it's obvious why it's become a bestseller. I bought the book on eBay, and I plan to sell it next week on eBay. Anyone interested?
Got to start the college fund somehow!
Well, I can't believe how fast the first NINE days of my daughter's life have gone. Time flies too fast these days. She is doing great, and already loves Ohio State. I'll have to add a couple of her pics to our website.
Allison is doing great, and she's regained the weight that she lost. She looks so much different or older than her pictures from the hospital. If you want to see the actual hospital pics, they're at www.growingfamily.com, click on their "WebNursery."
I will probably do a few mutterings on the homepage until I figure out how to post pics to this blogger. This is a lot easier.
Jennie and I have slept pretty well at night, but overall she is exhausted. I don't know how she has done it, and I am amazed and blessed to have such a great wife and now a great mother for my kids. Allison is so incredibly cute to hold, snuggle with, and play with already. Any time I know we are going to get visitors at our house, I sing her a song with their names in it. She seemed to like the "Chadd and Cory song" that I did two days ago.
On Tuesday, Bill & Kim Underwood (my cousins) stopped by with their three kids - Jacob, Bryn, and Reagan. That was a whirling dervish of a visit. We love Bill & Kim, and I dearly love their kids too. But I realized how "orderly" and "protective" I am of my own stuff - or Allison's stuff, for that matter. Maybe I'll grow out of that. Jennie and I would love to have more children someday, but right now we are overjoyed and loving the one God has given us now.
Our friends have been tremendous - bringing food, mowing our lawn, trimming our grass, and visiting to say hello and love on Allie. God has really blessed Jennie and me beyond our ability to recognize. We are grateful and honored in so many ways!
Some things I used to do in my free time will now have to die. Rest assured, the webpage is not one of them. I am talking about some of my sports hobby. Let's rip away the chaff of watching sports on TV. If it's not Ohio State football, then I don't have to see it. Even if it is Ohio State football, you'd think I'd have my fix by now with two Fiesta Bowl victories and one national championship in the last two years.
Leonardo? Yes, I'm almost finished reading the Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown. Maybe I'll do a review of it on our website or on this blogger. Right now, it is a thrilling book to read, and it's obvious why it's become a bestseller. I bought the book on eBay, and I plan to sell it next week on eBay. Anyone interested?
Got to start the college fund somehow!
Friday, June 25, 2004
Allison's Arrival...
I am actually writing this three days after the fact - on Friday, June 25th - the first time I can really sit down and journal like I mean it...
So, we've had a wonderful experience in these first four days with Allison, but we'll always want to remember that surprise trip to the hospital...
So, we've had a wonderful experience in these first four days with Allison, but we'll always want to remember that surprise trip to the hospital...
MONDAY, JUNE 21ST
11:00 PM - Continuing to enjoy our last days before Allison's arrival, Jennie and I were up a little too late once again. Jennie, fortunately, goes to sleep just around midnight, but Gary is still awake. I had just started finally reading The Da Vinci Code, and it is very, very interesting. Since she can't sleep while I'm awake, I went downstairs to read Dan Brown's heresies and watch a little SportsCenter. For whatever reason, I cannot sleep, probably my unconscious grasping at a few last moments of "freedom" before being dominated by babyworld...
TUESDAY, JUNE 22ND, 2004
After falling asleep for about fifteen minutes downstairs, Gary finally returns to bed and is ready to sleep for real. As I got back to bed, Jennie was slightly awake, just enough to hear me say, "Man, it's a good thing Allison didn't come tonight, because I totally couldn't sleep..."
3:27 AM - I wake up to a lighted bedroom and a noisy hallway, and ask Jennie how she's doing. Response: "Ummmm... I think my water broke." I sigh and roll over, as if I'd heard that one before. We were both mentally and emotionally prepared for our baby to be born two weeks late, and acted sometimes like she'd never come at all. That was getting easier to do, instead of acting like every minute or every phone call might be "THE CALL!"
Anyhow, on her way back from the bathroom, Jennie exclaimed, "Yep - that's my water breaking -" as more water escaped. Pretty shocking moment at 3:30 in the morning, and the excitement woke both of us up, at least as much as possible... Once we realized it was actaully happening, we both cried and were fully awake with anticipation and joy.
4:00 AM - We call the nurse on-call at our Paragon Health Services, and she gives the following diagnosis - "Congrats, guys - you're going to have a baby today!" Apparently, once the water breaks, the clock starts ticking, and the baby should be born in no less than 24 hours. She also added that, unless Jennie feels strong contractions around 5 minutes apart, that we are in no rush. "You guys get some sleep, you're going to have a big day tomorrow. Call us if you need to." Gotcha.
4:13 AM - "Whoa.... CONTRACTION!" And this not just your average pressure-filled, breathe it out, early labor contraction, this was the strongest Jennie had felt in six months. And this was only the beginning. Over the next 45 minutes, contractions came, and about every five minutes, Jennie was hunched over, saying something like "Ohhhh!" - or - "Can you rub my back?" - or "Whoaaa!" In other words, it's time to call the doctor again. I took a shower, started packing my bags (of course I put that off till the last minute, and made Jennie some toast.) Jennie also got a shower, made sure the bags were ready, and didn't eat the toast.
5:30 AM - Contractions coming fast and furious, and we called our parents to let them know what's going down.
5:49 AM -
(more later, as I get time to finish... hate to leave you hanging... =)
Monday, June 21, 2004
New Home for Mutterings?
That's right, I found this terrific site called Blogger.com. Well, I didn't find it, Josh Smith found it. Josh has a site called www.Gitgan.com, and he uses Blogger.com for his online journals. If you haven't heard of a "blog," it is the term for "web log" or "journal" online. Just like the mutterings I have been writing and will continue to do.
I'd like to eventually move all the mutterings files to this site, because, well, it's FREE! Our garyandjennie.com is at a good price, but I'd like to use most of that space for pictures and videos, if you couldn't tell. Plus, I really like the look of this blogger.com thing. IT also sorts and archives my journal entries for me - saving me time and yes, money!
I think this blogger.com journal actually works FASTER than the program I currently use, so I will probably be able to update the MUTTERINGS more often, and from anywhere I can get online. Currently, I have to have my iBook (MAC) with me to do it, and be online to upload the file to my server.
(Whatever, Gary, just say something funny! Don't you know that's why we read this stupid journal blog or whatever in the first place?)
I'll get to the funny stuff later, I promise. Jennie and I had a great time at Giant Eagle tonight. You know you married the right girl when you laugh for 45 minutes straight at the stinking grocery store.
Kudos to Juicy Juice - that stuff rocks!
I'd like to eventually move all the mutterings files to this site, because, well, it's FREE! Our garyandjennie.com is at a good price, but I'd like to use most of that space for pictures and videos, if you couldn't tell. Plus, I really like the look of this blogger.com thing. IT also sorts and archives my journal entries for me - saving me time and yes, money!
I think this blogger.com journal actually works FASTER than the program I currently use, so I will probably be able to update the MUTTERINGS more often, and from anywhere I can get online. Currently, I have to have my iBook (MAC) with me to do it, and be online to upload the file to my server.
(Whatever, Gary, just say something funny! Don't you know that's why we read this stupid journal blog or whatever in the first place?)
I'll get to the funny stuff later, I promise. Jennie and I had a great time at Giant Eagle tonight. You know you married the right girl when you laugh for 45 minutes straight at the stinking grocery store.
Kudos to Juicy Juice - that stuff rocks!
NBA Draft Preview...
I wonder what the Cavs will do this Thursday. Our baby could be born any day of the week, but I hope it is not Thursday.
My ideal Cavs' draft would probably be for 6-7 high school PG Shaun Livingston to fall to the Cavs at #10. We'll see - many people have Livingston going in the top four. The Cavs are not going to trade up, that's for sure. If they did, it would be with Charlotte at 4.
Then again, who can believe any of the rumors you read.
I also like Ben Gordon, Devin Harris, or Jameer Nelson for the Cavs at 10. Jameer Nelson, underrated again, will probably turn out to be a very solid NBA point guard.
My ideal Cavs' draft would probably be for 6-7 high school PG Shaun Livingston to fall to the Cavs at #10. We'll see - many people have Livingston going in the top four. The Cavs are not going to trade up, that's for sure. If they did, it would be with Charlotte at 4.
Then again, who can believe any of the rumors you read.
I also like Ben Gordon, Devin Harris, or Jameer Nelson for the Cavs at 10. Jameer Nelson, underrated again, will probably turn out to be a very solid NBA point guard.
Sunday, June 20, 2004
No, Not Yet
Sunday, June 20th - "No, not yet..."
Jennie is feeling some contractions, but not enough of them to mean labor. In other words, we're going "late" - or at least past the due-date with Allison. I am all about being patient, and think that patience is a valuable sign of one's personal maturity. But patience is currently in short supply at the Underwood household.
Of course, we heard all the "Allison will come in God's time" comments today - and that is so true. Meanwhile, I'm going to be honest here on-line, and say we'd be glad if "God's time" would hurry up. Just because patience is a virtue, doesn't make it easy.
Last week, I got to hold a two-month old baby boy. I am getting better at actually holding a baby, and I'm starting to like that idea a lot. When I locked eyes with that 2-month old, I honestly felt goosebumps! I cannot even imagine that moment when we meet Allison face-to-face.
Guaranteed, though, that there WILL be some sort of CLEAR announcement on this webpage about the birth and all the details. I plan to have our camera and camcorder on hand. We are also the kind of people who love to have friends over, or have people visit at the hospital. Not a bad idea to call ahead or hear from us first, though, but we'd love to see you guys!
Jennie is really enjoying the break from work. Let's just say it's really good for her (and the baby) to have more time to rest, prepare, and not strain her back and lungs by working all day. Her workplace and friends have been very encouraging, and everyone is telling her and me to "get sleep now" - consider it done!
We saw "The Terminal" with Tom Hanks on Friday. Very good movie. I had read that it was a good statement by director Steven Spielberg on a lot about American society, and about people that are stuck in a certain place or situation in life. Tom Hanks is awesome, in case you didn't already know. Sometime, I'll do a top-ten list of movies or something. I probably wouldn't have any Tom Hanks movies on my top ten list, but he is a fantastic actor, and The Terminal is one of this year's best, at least that I've seen.
Zac & Hilary Derr were over last week, and they brought shish-kabobs. Not even sure if I spelled that right, but it was my first time doing shish-kebabs (note alternate spelling) on the grill. VERY good stuff. Zac is interning at The Chapel with Pastor Knute Larson, and looks great in a baseball helmet. Hilary is currently helping lead a youth missions trip to Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh, as we all know, is a town that really needs God and also more Browns fans.
Speaking of Browns fans, Dan & Jill Bahry are huge C-town crazies. Dan's basement has more orange and brown than Cleveland Stadium itself. He has Browns bobbleheads, jerseys, mugs, football cards, newspapers, programs, and autographed helmets. Dude is sold out, and actually used to work in Berea for the Browns.
Okay, now it seems like I'm name-dropping. "I know this guy who used to work for the Browns, so I am actually pretty cool myself." Ever wish that Butch Davis did NOT work for the Browns?
Anyhow, Dan & Jill are proud graduates of Green High School, and have the yearbooks to prove it. They also introduced us to "Juicy Juice" (an all-natural juice that is now half-price at Giant Eagle), and entertained us with Green High yearbooks from '92 to '95. Funny how much the hairstyles have changed since then. Especially the girls' hair. If you didn't have the "poof" in front, might as well not be in the yearbook.
Every few days, Jennie and I sit down and share some thoughts that might be good to "mutter" about. Anything else exciting this week?
Jennie is feeling some contractions, but not enough of them to mean labor. In other words, we're going "late" - or at least past the due-date with Allison. I am all about being patient, and think that patience is a valuable sign of one's personal maturity. But patience is currently in short supply at the Underwood household.
Of course, we heard all the "Allison will come in God's time" comments today - and that is so true. Meanwhile, I'm going to be honest here on-line, and say we'd be glad if "God's time" would hurry up. Just because patience is a virtue, doesn't make it easy.
Last week, I got to hold a two-month old baby boy. I am getting better at actually holding a baby, and I'm starting to like that idea a lot. When I locked eyes with that 2-month old, I honestly felt goosebumps! I cannot even imagine that moment when we meet Allison face-to-face.
Guaranteed, though, that there WILL be some sort of CLEAR announcement on this webpage about the birth and all the details. I plan to have our camera and camcorder on hand. We are also the kind of people who love to have friends over, or have people visit at the hospital. Not a bad idea to call ahead or hear from us first, though, but we'd love to see you guys!
Jennie is really enjoying the break from work. Let's just say it's really good for her (and the baby) to have more time to rest, prepare, and not strain her back and lungs by working all day. Her workplace and friends have been very encouraging, and everyone is telling her and me to "get sleep now" - consider it done!
We saw "The Terminal" with Tom Hanks on Friday. Very good movie. I had read that it was a good statement by director Steven Spielberg on a lot about American society, and about people that are stuck in a certain place or situation in life. Tom Hanks is awesome, in case you didn't already know. Sometime, I'll do a top-ten list of movies or something. I probably wouldn't have any Tom Hanks movies on my top ten list, but he is a fantastic actor, and The Terminal is one of this year's best, at least that I've seen.
Zac & Hilary Derr were over last week, and they brought shish-kabobs. Not even sure if I spelled that right, but it was my first time doing shish-kebabs (note alternate spelling) on the grill. VERY good stuff. Zac is interning at The Chapel with Pastor Knute Larson, and looks great in a baseball helmet. Hilary is currently helping lead a youth missions trip to Pittsburgh. Pittsburgh, as we all know, is a town that really needs God and also more Browns fans.
Speaking of Browns fans, Dan & Jill Bahry are huge C-town crazies. Dan's basement has more orange and brown than Cleveland Stadium itself. He has Browns bobbleheads, jerseys, mugs, football cards, newspapers, programs, and autographed helmets. Dude is sold out, and actually used to work in Berea for the Browns.
Okay, now it seems like I'm name-dropping. "I know this guy who used to work for the Browns, so I am actually pretty cool myself." Ever wish that Butch Davis did NOT work for the Browns?
Anyhow, Dan & Jill are proud graduates of Green High School, and have the yearbooks to prove it. They also introduced us to "Juicy Juice" (an all-natural juice that is now half-price at Giant Eagle), and entertained us with Green High yearbooks from '92 to '95. Funny how much the hairstyles have changed since then. Especially the girls' hair. If you didn't have the "poof" in front, might as well not be in the yearbook.
Every few days, Jennie and I sit down and share some thoughts that might be good to "mutter" about. Anything else exciting this week?
Sunday, June 13, 2004
Protecting my family...
Nine months can feel like a long time. We would be the last people to complain, for Jennie has had a pretty healthy pregnancy, and we know every day with Allison is a true gift from God.
If reading our website has ever made you ask, "I wonder what it would be like to be a fly on the wall in the Underwood household, and hear what they really talk about in there?" Let the following story be both a reality check and an answer to your insect-on-our-walls inquiries.
Today I mentioned the 10 Commandments in our young marrieds class at The Chapel. Many of you know that "Thou shalt not kill" is indeed one of God's ten commandments, and is thankfully a part of our legal system today. We are also grateful that such a commandment does not extend to other species of biological life. Take, for example, members of the insect world.
At left, you see a picture of a wasp that invaded our home about a half hour ago. Jennie, in the midst of a conversation with her mom, blurted out, "Honey, there's a huge insect that just got in!" (Click to enlarge)
Naturally, the protector-hunter-defender-of-my-home instinct overcame me. As you can see, the photographer tendency in me was also at its artistic peak. For a few brief moments, this wily invader hid behind the blinds in an attempt to plan his clandestine appraisal of the Underwood kitchen.
Eventually he resurfaced, just long enough to get a pose on the internet, and now you are benefactors of his foolishness. With my "capture the image" appetite satisfied, I went in for the kill. For a brief moment, I thought back to the book of Exodus, chapter 20, and the immortal words of God and Moses, "Thou shalt not kill."
As I looked at the newspaper clenched in my fist, the guilt almost overcame me, before the fact. At just the right moment, the thought occured to me that in Genesis chapter 1-2, God called Adam (and essentially all of humanity) to take charge and rule over all the other species of living things on the earth. Since part of my God-given responsibility as a human being is to exert leadership over other living species - and my responsibility to protect my family... I introduced that black-winged stranger to the Business section of the Akron Beacon Journal.
About now, you could be wondering about the sanity of a guy who posts his wasp-killing exploits on the internet. Quite frankly, I would question if you have ever been stung by a bee or wasp. See, these insect-attackers not only sting you - they ruin picnics, poison sandwiches, drink your soda, and embarrass whoever or whatever is in their path. I not only killed this one, but I now subject him to public humiliation on the World Wide Web. Dude deserves it.
(As I read this, I am wondering, "Now, who all knows about this website? They might think less of me after they read this. I mean, I not only posted an article about killing a wasp, but I tried to make it a moral issue, quoting parts of the Old Testament and such. Are they thinking "this Gary guy really does have some issues" or "I'm not sure Gary's really ready to be a father - he can't even do a webpage worth reading. If he's the kind of person who puts pictures of dead wasps online, I'm not sure I'm going to return to this website or even sign his guestbook." Then again, maybe you're not thinking that. )
Maybe you're quite thrilled for me and Jennie now that our house is pest-free. Like I said, nine months can be a long time. I promise that the next month will include cute articles, updates, and pictures of Jennie and Allison. But I want to remind you that God has called me to protect them against even the smallest of foes. Needless to say, I am ready to protect my family.
If reading our website has ever made you ask, "I wonder what it would be like to be a fly on the wall in the Underwood household, and hear what they really talk about in there?" Let the following story be both a reality check and an answer to your insect-on-our-walls inquiries.
Today I mentioned the 10 Commandments in our young marrieds class at The Chapel. Many of you know that "Thou shalt not kill" is indeed one of God's ten commandments, and is thankfully a part of our legal system today. We are also grateful that such a commandment does not extend to other species of biological life. Take, for example, members of the insect world.
At left, you see a picture of a wasp that invaded our home about a half hour ago. Jennie, in the midst of a conversation with her mom, blurted out, "Honey, there's a huge insect that just got in!" (Click to enlarge)
Naturally, the protector-hunter-defender-of-my-home instinct overcame me. As you can see, the photographer tendency in me was also at its artistic peak. For a few brief moments, this wily invader hid behind the blinds in an attempt to plan his clandestine appraisal of the Underwood kitchen.
Eventually he resurfaced, just long enough to get a pose on the internet, and now you are benefactors of his foolishness. With my "capture the image" appetite satisfied, I went in for the kill. For a brief moment, I thought back to the book of Exodus, chapter 20, and the immortal words of God and Moses, "Thou shalt not kill."
As I looked at the newspaper clenched in my fist, the guilt almost overcame me, before the fact. At just the right moment, the thought occured to me that in Genesis chapter 1-2, God called Adam (and essentially all of humanity) to take charge and rule over all the other species of living things on the earth. Since part of my God-given responsibility as a human being is to exert leadership over other living species - and my responsibility to protect my family... I introduced that black-winged stranger to the Business section of the Akron Beacon Journal.
About now, you could be wondering about the sanity of a guy who posts his wasp-killing exploits on the internet. Quite frankly, I would question if you have ever been stung by a bee or wasp. See, these insect-attackers not only sting you - they ruin picnics, poison sandwiches, drink your soda, and embarrass whoever or whatever is in their path. I not only killed this one, but I now subject him to public humiliation on the World Wide Web. Dude deserves it.
(As I read this, I am wondering, "Now, who all knows about this website? They might think less of me after they read this. I mean, I not only posted an article about killing a wasp, but I tried to make it a moral issue, quoting parts of the Old Testament and such. Are they thinking "this Gary guy really does have some issues" or "I'm not sure Gary's really ready to be a father - he can't even do a webpage worth reading. If he's the kind of person who puts pictures of dead wasps online, I'm not sure I'm going to return to this website or even sign his guestbook." Then again, maybe you're not thinking that. )
Maybe you're quite thrilled for me and Jennie now that our house is pest-free. Like I said, nine months can be a long time. I promise that the next month will include cute articles, updates, and pictures of Jennie and Allison. But I want to remind you that God has called me to protect them against even the smallest of foes. Needless to say, I am ready to protect my family.
Tuesday, June 08, 2004
What's up?
Tuesday, June 8th, 2004 - "What's up?"
Hey, how's it going? For so long, this has been a one-way conversation, and for that - I apologize. I hope you know that we'd love to hear from you on email sometime, and hear your side of the story. If the idea of doing your own online journal intrigues you, you can do one for free at Blogger.com. A "blogger" is what you are reading now - an online journal that other people can read if they feel like it.
Did you hear about Smarty Jones? He was supposed to be another Seabiscuit - a triple-crown winner in horseracing. If you didn't see Seabiscuit, you should. I kept putting it off, cause I was like, "uh, it's a movie about a horse - don't we all have better things to do with our time?"
Actually, no, "we" don't. Especially when you watch television on a weeknight. Seabiscuit is better than that. Quality time with your spouse or a good friend is better than that.
I loved Ronald Reagan, and think our nation and our world is a much better place because of his leadership, personality, and love for people of the U.S. He's pretty much the first president I knew much about and grew up with. I heard the news of his death last week at a party where there were a bunch of kids, and thought, most of them don't even know who he is. But they benefit from his leadership decades later...
For those of you following the "countdown to Allison," there's just 12 days till Jennie is due, and of course I'm already dreaming up her next video. I did a web-search of songs with the name "Allison" in them, and let's just say Allie will have a "greatest hits" DVD by the time she enters pre-school. One of our friends recently wrote that "Allison is going to be one well-received child!"
So true, unless she begins to root for Michigan someday. But maybe that will be God's way of teaching me unconditional love. Love without conditions, requirements, bias, or expectations. I already love her like that.
But true, selfless "love" also implies that you want the best for someone. In other words, while I realize that good parenting involves more than just helping your children root for the correct team, I promise not to neglect proper guidance in that area. The total number of Ohio State outfits currently in Allie's closet? NINE. NINE!!!
We do have family members who inquire, "When is she going to get a Packers or Badgers outfit?"
Answer - "when you buy one for her."
We'll be glad to let her wear these things, of course, but so far the gifts are a plus-9 in favor of the Buckeyes.
(Note: this is the end of today's "blogger." I hope you enjoyed our "mutterings" as much as we enjoyed writing them. Meanwhile, the Lakers stink, and it's fun to watch.)
Hey, how's it going? For so long, this has been a one-way conversation, and for that - I apologize. I hope you know that we'd love to hear from you on email sometime, and hear your side of the story. If the idea of doing your own online journal intrigues you, you can do one for free at Blogger.com. A "blogger" is what you are reading now - an online journal that other people can read if they feel like it.
Did you hear about Smarty Jones? He was supposed to be another Seabiscuit - a triple-crown winner in horseracing. If you didn't see Seabiscuit, you should. I kept putting it off, cause I was like, "uh, it's a movie about a horse - don't we all have better things to do with our time?"
Actually, no, "we" don't. Especially when you watch television on a weeknight. Seabiscuit is better than that. Quality time with your spouse or a good friend is better than that.
I loved Ronald Reagan, and think our nation and our world is a much better place because of his leadership, personality, and love for people of the U.S. He's pretty much the first president I knew much about and grew up with. I heard the news of his death last week at a party where there were a bunch of kids, and thought, most of them don't even know who he is. But they benefit from his leadership decades later...
For those of you following the "countdown to Allison," there's just 12 days till Jennie is due, and of course I'm already dreaming up her next video. I did a web-search of songs with the name "Allison" in them, and let's just say Allie will have a "greatest hits" DVD by the time she enters pre-school. One of our friends recently wrote that "Allison is going to be one well-received child!"
So true, unless she begins to root for Michigan someday. But maybe that will be God's way of teaching me unconditional love. Love without conditions, requirements, bias, or expectations. I already love her like that.
But true, selfless "love" also implies that you want the best for someone. In other words, while I realize that good parenting involves more than just helping your children root for the correct team, I promise not to neglect proper guidance in that area. The total number of Ohio State outfits currently in Allie's closet? NINE. NINE!!!
We do have family members who inquire, "When is she going to get a Packers or Badgers outfit?"
Answer - "when you buy one for her."
We'll be glad to let her wear these things, of course, but so far the gifts are a plus-9 in favor of the Buckeyes.
(Note: this is the end of today's "blogger." I hope you enjoyed our "mutterings" as much as we enjoyed writing them. Meanwhile, the Lakers stink, and it's fun to watch.)
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