This week, Jennie and I are spending the week in Winona Lake, Indiana. Sure, it's a little sentimental for us. It's where we met, fell in love, and also got married just five years ago.
It's also where we both went to college - at Grace College. So we're staying in Winona Lake, and we'll enjoy the beautiful scenery, sunsets, and time with Allie. Allie is starting to run around and play with other kids. It's all so... surreal.
We're here this week for the conference for the Fellowship of Grace Brethren Churches. I guess I'm officially a Grace Brethren pastor now. Blame Ken Bickel, who finally talked me into it. Seriously, though, we are excited about this week where we not only get to see some old friends in college (like Dave Jones, Jason Knavel, and hopefully Dave Pacheco), but also get to meet lots of new friends and connect with other pastors here.
I should also mention Jennie's friends, right? She's looking forward to seeing Tricia (Wood) Holabeck, Cathy Laker, Trish Stevens, and quite possibly Sarah (Peppo) Lavy.
Jennie and I have both experienced a variety of "worlds" in our lives. For me, there's the worlds of Lake (Uniontown/Hartville), The Chapel, Grace, SW Michigan, Grace again, Green (Ohio), and now Delaware. For Jennie, the worlds of Campbellsport (WI), Grace, Milwaukee, Grace, Milwaukee, Green (Ohio), and now... Delaware. It's pretty wild to see all of these worlds converge in one week, here in Winona Lake.
You have Kary Oberbrunner, who Jennie knew in the Milwaukee world, but then became a part of my Grace-world as my roommate in 1999. Kary is part of our Delaware world and the Grace Brethren world here this week too.
I guess I am the only guy from "The Chapel" world to be Grace Brethren now. Usually, guys have gone from Grace to The Chapel (Knute Larson, Tom Bennardo, Eloy Pacheco, Bob Messner, Steve Adriansen, and I'm sure the list goes on).
I suppose the best part is that we have fond memories of all of our worlds. And, silly us, we still think we can keep in touch with all of them. If I sound like I'm getting sentimental or reflective - I am. Life is - and has been - a great journey... with lots of interesting stops, people, and events along the way.
Just occurred to me that you might be from one of these worlds too?
If you're Jeremy Bear, we've connected in the worlds of The Chapel, Lake (kinda), Grace, and um... Grace. We can kinda count Columbus too, right? Since I visited so much and now live so close to there. We also share the Mosaic world. You with your presence at that great church, and me getting so much from Erwin's spirit through his writings and speaking.
If you're Tim Cooper, I guess you're wondering why I left out the other "new world" I'm in, called the Denver Seminary world (which also has many ties to The Chapel world, since Denver Seminary president Craig Williford was at The Chapel for a few good years.) Denver also has ties to Delaware and Grace. Amazing. Tied to Delaware because the pastor here before me, Jeff Gill, did the same degree program at Denver that I am doing. Tied to Grace, because my mentor and friend Ken Bickel also did his degree at Denver. But we all know I'm there just to hang with Coop and drink Jamba Juice.
If you're Josh Smith, you know me from the Chapel world and also the Chapel world.... and I suppose the other Chapel world. Seems like a whole different place there than it was when we first met in 1994 and barely knew each other. Then we had several pretty awesome years with BCM, and then a whole lotta change with two campuses, and we still keep in touch and have a great friendship.
(Here I go again, only focusing on my friends and not Jennie's. Maybe she needs to get a blog here.)
Back to my friends. Chadd Sommers can legitimately claim ties to the Lake world (high school, he attended most of our football games and even dated a few Lake girls!), The Chapel world (where he grew up), The Grace world (he moved out there for a year), the Chapel world (back again after we were both married), and of course the Green world.
If you're Dan Bahry, you know it only takes "one world" for people to really connect on a deep level. You rock, bro. Go Browns!
Yeah, this is a long blog. I'm done, and I'm grateful for all the "worlds" God's allowed me to live in and develop friendships. I'll try to blog more from Winona, but I just felt like getting some new stuff out there. Know what I mean?
What "worlds" have you traveled through in your lifetime? Post about them in the comments!
Sunday, July 31, 2005
Friday, July 29, 2005
Blue... like jazz?
Did you ever have someone recommend a book to you? I get that often. In fact, usually, when someone says, "You gotta read (insert book title here)," I usually tune them out. I have enough books to read. My bookshelves are one big guilt trip for me. I buy books and then I do not read them. If someone looked at my shelf, they might think I am an avid reader. I guess I am becoming one of those. But a closer look at the truth would tell them that I am much more of an avid "book buyer" than I am a reader. So I have a stack of 10-15 books on my desk that I "want to get reading..." And then I have shelves of other books that I plan to read someday. Some of those books are books that I've started reading, get 50 pages in, and then put aside...So, about a month ago, Dave Gannon recommended Blue Like Jazz. A few days later, I saw it reviewed on a friend's website. Two other people asked me if I'd read it, and I see a chapter from it inserted into my favorite magazine. Think it might be time to pick up a copy?
Well, I just finished reading Blue Like Jazz, and I really liked it. Donald Miller writes as if he's talking directly to you, sharing what the subtitle calls, "nonreligious thoughts on Christian spirituality." That's exactly what you'll get. It's like you're getting inside a real person's mind, hearing their doubts, fears, and questions about life.
He has some great chapters about life, faith, community, love, and the church. Here's a guy who attended one of the toughest universities in the country, and I think he did it simply to connect with people and make friends. One chapter talks about how he and his friends set up a confessional booth in the middle of campus for students to come and confess their sins.
The twist came, however, as each student came to the confessional. Instead of confessing their own sins, they listened to the author or one of his friends confessing the sins of the church. How Christianity has judged people instead of loving them. How Christianity has had people fighting themselves instead of loving the world. How Christianity has not done a good job of showing the love of Christ to our country.
Overall, this was a very honest, personal look at one man's struggle with the Christian faith, and how he came to know a deeper love for Jesus while rejecting the bad things he has seen in Christianity. Miller was witty, honest, real, and at times laugh-out-loud funny. His self-deprecating humor makes the book memorable and enjoyable.
I don't say this about too many books, but I think this one deserves a second read. I'm not saying it's the "best book ever" - as I tend to say after seeing movies I like. But I am saying it's well worth your time, it's a quick read, and I'm really glad I read it!
Thursday, July 28, 2005
Jamba Responds!!
Hello Gary, Thank you for taking the time to contact us. We are thrilled to learn that you want us to open in Delaware County. The recipe for opening new locations is really quite simple and our intention is to open Jamba in every city where there are enough customers to support a store. As you can imagine, picking the right real estate is also very important.
Over the years, customers have been the ones that have given us the permission to grow. Many of the towns/cities that we currently serve were once just recommendations and requests such as yours. I will share your email with our Real Estate department for review.
I hope you're having a terrific day! Hang in there...we look forward to blending in your hometown someday.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Hofeling
Customer Service
Jamba Juice Company
1700 17th Street
San Francisco, Ca 94103-5136
800.545.9972
"We aspire to deliver the perfect Jamba Experience to each and every Customer, each and every time!"
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Rocky Mountain High...
Here's the actual view from Lookout Mountain. Just one hour before heading to Panera, we got some great pictures here and some nice views of the city of Denver. Over 100 degrees that day, but if you go up the mountain, it gets colder. Interesting - closer to the sun, but colder.
Anyhow, the week went fast and I can't believe summer is pretty much gone already. Yesterday, Jennie and I were at a youth conference where we got to hear Francis Chan speak, and so can you if you click on that link!
Anyhow, the week went fast and I can't believe summer is pretty much gone already. Yesterday, Jennie and I were at a youth conference where we got to hear Francis Chan speak, and so can you if you click on that link!
Just six days ago...
Time goes too fast. Here I am, awkwardly posing with Tim Cooper somewhere on lookout mountain. I think I am sitting strangely because I am afraid of heights. Or because I was wearing sandals with slippery tread while on the side of a massive mountain - yeah, that sounds better! Thanks for the memories, Coop!
Because I feel like it...
You now see a picture of Minnesota basketball player Kevin Garnett, from a mural in the Minneapolis airport. When people ask me, "How was your week in Denver?" I always reply, "Great - I got to see a big picture of Garnett!" (Okay, I actually don't say that, but I bet I had you going... Anyway... My friend, Jason Knavel, recently wrote on his blog about how he doesn't like the NBA (Pro Basketball) very much, and then listed his top 10 favorite sports to watch. I'm slightly jealous of a guy who thinks up a top-ten list before I do. So, in the spirit of "catching up," here are my top ten favorite sports and events to watch on television - though I actually don't watch as much TV anymore.... but for the sake of doing a list...Oh, and while you go through this list, feel free to click to learn more about each specific sport or team...
#10 - Cleveland Indians baseball. Some of this stems from nostalgia - I will always love the Tribe. If we were to look at this poll back in 1995-1999, I would have ranked the Indians at #1 or #2. But, just as teams change, so do people. The Tribe at its best ranks right just below the Buckeyes at their best. Actually, I take that back. I think that the fact that major league baseball (not in capital letters for a reason) has NO salary cap has actually made me disdain that form of the sport. The fact that Steinbrenner can buy the Yankees into the playoffs every year is not only unfair, it's pretty much old news.
#9 - The NFL Draft. That's right... I'd rather watch the suspense and hear the banter surrounding the NFL draft than watch just about any baseball game, golf tournament, or poker tournament. I guess in a former life or an alternate universe, I was Mel Kiper. I love playing general manager, and Pull and I were doing pretend drafts back in 5th grade.
#8 - Unfortunately, there is no #8. As a consolation prize, click here.
#7 - March Madness (The NCAA Basketball Tournament). I've always loved the college basketball tournament. I remember when I saw Lorenzo Charles score the winning bucket in 1983 for Jim Valvano. I mean, I have history with the NCAA, and I do a bracket every year, usually not for money. Best moment was when Ohio State made the final four a few years ago with Scoonie Penn and Michael Redd. Too bad Redd didn't make it in the pros.
#6 - College Football games of any kind. I do love to follow College football as probably my most favorite sport regardless of team or location. I love the atmosphere, the feel of the season, the smell of fall, and yes - I like the fact that college players still seem teachable and not full of themselves like they are in the NFL. They still have something to play for - like a job one day.
#5 - Ohio State Basketball. I actually think this one will climb to #3 or #2 over the next couple of years. With such a great recruiting class, Ohio State looks like they'll return to the national picture and contend in the NCAA Tournament!
#4 - Ohio High School Football!. I still think it's great, and love following teams from Northeast Ohio like Lake, St. Ignatius, Massillon, Buchtel, and Canton McKinley. Over the last few years, I also like to follow players who have already committed to Ohio State, like Garfield's Chris Wells, one of the nation's top high school running backs.
#3 - NBA Basketball. Yes, I know it's no longer cool to claim that you watch pro basketball. I have heard probably a hundred people say how it's not the pure game anymore, or how big the egos are, or how the game is just different now and full of show-offs. I'd like to take this opportunity to let all of those people know that there are (shockingly) more teams in the NBA than just the Portland Trail Blazers. The CAVS and the rest of the NBA are actually very fun to watch. The league has more talent and character and personality than ever. Note: I am also from Akron, home of Lebron James. 'Nuff said.
#2 - Cleveland Browns football. That explains why I'm so frustrated on Sundays during pro football season, and why I actually like fantasy football. But the Browns are hopefully headed down the right track with new coach Romeo Crennel and many new players.
#1 - Ohio State Buckeyes college football games. I think that's obvious. If not, I'll have to blog a lot about OSU this coming year.
Come to Columbus?
(An actual letter I sent out today via the Web...)Dear Owners of "Jamba Juice,"
Last week, I spent a few days in Denver, Colorado. Your company has a store located on Hampden Avenue in south Denver, as you may already know. "Jamba Juice" happened to be on the way from my friend's apartment to the school where I study. To make a long story short, after a friend introduced me to your quality smoothies, I stopped at your store five times last week.
I had your "Berry Lime Sublime,"' your "Jamba Powerboost," your "Strawberry Nirvana," and of course your "Orange Dreamsicle." Each time, I enjoyed adding a free protein boost, energy boost, or vita-boost to my smoothie. The service was friendly and the taste was friendlier.
When I returned home from Denver, I promptly went to the Jamba Juice website. Imagine my heart's dismay when I saw that you do not have any stores in Ohio, Michigan, or Indiana.
Did you know that Delaware (Ohio) County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the United States of America? I wonder if you would consider this fine business opportunity in our area, as our population and consumer base is growing rapidly. If there is anything I can personally do to help your cause, I would be more than honored to help out.
Sincerely,
Gary Underwood
GaryandJennie.com
Saturday, July 23, 2005
When in Detroit...
Those who know me well... know that I don't like Michigan. I do love my relatives that live in Michigan. I really like former Ohio State quarterback Craig Krenzel, from the same state. I also had a great experience and made many friends in Bridgman at Woodland Shores Baptist Church back in '96-'97. Other than that, I thought I really had no reason to like that state up north.
Well, this picture is from the Detroit airport - a VERY cool hallway that changed colors and made futuristic, soft toned noises as you walk down the way. Sometimes I rode those "people-movers" (things like escalators without stairs - what are they called?)... Anyhow, the Detroit airport had some cool effects. The Nachos, however, were terrible (not a surprise).
Oh, and I guess I like one more thing about Michigan (besides the best bookstore in the world in Grand Rapids)... Mars Hill.
A World of Beauty...
This was the view all week in Denver. Even though it was 100 degrees outside for most of the week, the view and the sunsets were BREATHTAKING.
I guess I mean that literally, because the altitude and the heat made for some shortness of breath. But I had a great week, and I'm so glad to be home. Both Jennie and Allie are glad to have me back home.
Baby #2 is kicking...
I guess I mean that literally, because the altitude and the heat made for some shortness of breath. But I had a great week, and I'm so glad to be home. Both Jennie and Allie are glad to have me back home.
Baby #2 is kicking...
Monday, July 18, 2005
Things to do in Denver when you're Alive...
This week, I'm in Denver having a great time hanging out with Tim and Suzanne Cooper and skiing the slopes at Vail. Uh, actually, I'm at Denver for a class at Denver Seminary. Just had my first half-day of classes, and the place is wonderful. A beautiful new campus that they just opened LAST WEEK, and are just really now moving into.
The class is on "How the Nature of the Church Affects Strategies for Ministry" and is taught by Dr. Craig Williford, formerly of The Chapel. We had a very interactive and fun afternoon. Pastors and ministry leaders (15 or so) from around the country are here to sharpen their leadership and think about the direction of our churches and ministries.
It is hard to be apart from Jennie and Allie this week. Right now, they are on a road trip to Winona Lake, Indiana to visit some friends from our days at Grace College. I think Jennie had lunch at Hacienda, probably downing a wet burrito and lots of chips.
Sunday morning at church, Allie was standing and walking by Jennie. Then, she saw Daddy (ME) across the room, and RAN to me. When she got to my feet, she threw up her arms as if to say, "Daddy, Hold me!!" One of the greatest moments of my life, actually. First time she's ever done that. My popularity was but a fleeting moment, as the next time I saw her, Jennie handed Allie to me and then my beautiful daughter started crying instantly and reaching for mommy. Maybe Allie was bummed that, for the first time in months, I did not mention her in some way during my message at church. Speaking of messages at church, check them out at this link right here.
So, this week, here's my schedule in Denver... if you're interested. Notice, no time hanging out with John Elway or Carmelo Anthony (sorry to disappoint.)
Tuesday = class all day (8am-4pm), enjoy a seminary orientation for new students (read: FREE DINNER), and then skip out early to attend the Tuesday night worship service where Tim Cooper is serving as Interim Pastor - a great young adult style church called TNL, or "The Next Level Church."
Wednesday = class all day (8am-4pm) with a lunch seminar about some computer programs called Moodle and EndNote 8 (Read: "Wish they had wireless internet so I could check e-mail and pretend to be learning about computer programs."). Wednesday night, I'll probably venture into the mountains or Colorado Springs to get some nice pics.
Thursday = class all day (8am-4pm) and I'll give a presentation on The Connecting Church by Randy Frazee. Thursday night, probably hang out with Tim & Suzanne and play ping-pong or find other things to do in Denver when we're alive. Not sure if anyone's getting that joke, but I'll keep going there and hope it's funny.
Friday = half day of class (8-Noon), do a seminary interview, and then hopefully meet with Mike Arnold and Tim Cooper for lunch. Really would love to see Mike! Haven't seen him since he moved to Vegas almost a year ago.
Saturday = get up wayyy early, fly out of Denver at 7:30am...
The week will go fast, and I do have "homework" every night. Great stuff, though. I love the challenge and the learning... I'm grateful to God, The Chapel, and Delaware Grace Brethren for helping me go after this great learning opportunity. And I'm grateful that you're still reading my blog!
That reminds me...
The class is on "How the Nature of the Church Affects Strategies for Ministry" and is taught by Dr. Craig Williford, formerly of The Chapel. We had a very interactive and fun afternoon. Pastors and ministry leaders (15 or so) from around the country are here to sharpen their leadership and think about the direction of our churches and ministries.
It is hard to be apart from Jennie and Allie this week. Right now, they are on a road trip to Winona Lake, Indiana to visit some friends from our days at Grace College. I think Jennie had lunch at Hacienda, probably downing a wet burrito and lots of chips.
Sunday morning at church, Allie was standing and walking by Jennie. Then, she saw Daddy (ME) across the room, and RAN to me. When she got to my feet, she threw up her arms as if to say, "Daddy, Hold me!!" One of the greatest moments of my life, actually. First time she's ever done that. My popularity was but a fleeting moment, as the next time I saw her, Jennie handed Allie to me and then my beautiful daughter started crying instantly and reaching for mommy. Maybe Allie was bummed that, for the first time in months, I did not mention her in some way during my message at church. Speaking of messages at church, check them out at this link right here.
So, this week, here's my schedule in Denver... if you're interested. Notice, no time hanging out with John Elway or Carmelo Anthony (sorry to disappoint.)
Tuesday = class all day (8am-4pm), enjoy a seminary orientation for new students (read: FREE DINNER), and then skip out early to attend the Tuesday night worship service where Tim Cooper is serving as Interim Pastor - a great young adult style church called TNL, or "The Next Level Church."
Wednesday = class all day (8am-4pm) with a lunch seminar about some computer programs called Moodle and EndNote 8 (Read: "Wish they had wireless internet so I could check e-mail and pretend to be learning about computer programs."). Wednesday night, I'll probably venture into the mountains or Colorado Springs to get some nice pics.
Thursday = class all day (8am-4pm) and I'll give a presentation on The Connecting Church by Randy Frazee. Thursday night, probably hang out with Tim & Suzanne and play ping-pong or find other things to do in Denver when we're alive. Not sure if anyone's getting that joke, but I'll keep going there and hope it's funny.
Friday = half day of class (8-Noon), do a seminary interview, and then hopefully meet with Mike Arnold and Tim Cooper for lunch. Really would love to see Mike! Haven't seen him since he moved to Vegas almost a year ago.
Saturday = get up wayyy early, fly out of Denver at 7:30am...
The week will go fast, and I do have "homework" every night. Great stuff, though. I love the challenge and the learning... I'm grateful to God, The Chapel, and Delaware Grace Brethren for helping me go after this great learning opportunity. And I'm grateful that you're still reading my blog!
That reminds me...
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Getting all Spiritual on us?
That's right, Pastor Gary is starting a SECOND blog. This one addresses issues of faith, life, culture, and church. I hope that it becomes a great way to connect with our people here in Delaware.
I also want to invite you to check it out, as I plan to update it several times a week. Inspired by the fact that I am no longer doing my FUSION newsletter, and also inspired by Tim Cooper's e-mail devotional "The Word," I want the challenge and consistency of doing a devotional online. I hope to be more thought-provoking than uplifting, more relevant and forward thinking than the status quo, and more enlightening than not. =).
Uh, anyhow, here's the link:
Underwood Unplugged
Go there, read, respond, and enjoy! Also, don't forget to come here again to get exciting updates like these!
- Allie climbed up the stairs yesterday, pretty much by herself!
- Jennie starts her new Occupational Therapy job next week, doing one day a week or less!
- Tomorrow night, we're headed to Easton (great outdoor mall and hangout) for a date night before Gary heads to Colorado for a week.
- Gary and the elders of the church recently completed a study/process of establishing our CORE VALUES for ministry. It was a seven month process, but WELL worth it!
- While in Denver, I plan to go hiking in the mountains and beat Tim Cooper at Madden. (Note: I have not played any video games in the last seven months. Are you impressed? Are you depressed?)
- For those of you who really wish Gary would just talk about basketball on his blog, click here.
I also want to invite you to check it out, as I plan to update it several times a week. Inspired by the fact that I am no longer doing my FUSION newsletter, and also inspired by Tim Cooper's e-mail devotional "The Word," I want the challenge and consistency of doing a devotional online. I hope to be more thought-provoking than uplifting, more relevant and forward thinking than the status quo, and more enlightening than not. =).
Uh, anyhow, here's the link:
Underwood Unplugged
Go there, read, respond, and enjoy! Also, don't forget to come here again to get exciting updates like these!
- Allie climbed up the stairs yesterday, pretty much by herself!
- Jennie starts her new Occupational Therapy job next week, doing one day a week or less!
- Tomorrow night, we're headed to Easton (great outdoor mall and hangout) for a date night before Gary heads to Colorado for a week.
- Gary and the elders of the church recently completed a study/process of establishing our CORE VALUES for ministry. It was a seven month process, but WELL worth it!
- While in Denver, I plan to go hiking in the mountains and beat Tim Cooper at Madden. (Note: I have not played any video games in the last seven months. Are you impressed? Are you depressed?)
- For those of you who really wish Gary would just talk about basketball on his blog, click here.
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
The Mutter...
Yeah, I need some sort of generic title that just says, "I have nothing real great to say, but I still feel like posting something on my blog," so I came up with "The Mutter..." Got any better ideas? Seriously - post a comment or suggestion below!
---- Nobody commented on my War of the Worlds review, so I'm guessing you all want to see the movie for yourselves and form your own opinions. I usually feel that way, even though I do check on Rotten Tomatoes for a general consensus of how a movie is being reviewed. They are usually right on with a percentage or "grade" of how ALL written movie reviewers are evaluating a movie.
---- I bet some of you don't care what I think about movies, or wonder where I get all this time to see a movie and then blog about it. Good question. I love to write.
---- I've decided to write about some more meaningful things in a journal called "Underwood Unplugged." Go there if you want more deep thoughts or challenges about faith, life, and how church should be.
---- Next week, I'll be in Denver all week for my first course at Denver Seminary. It's taught by current Denver Seminary President Craig Williford, who - ironically - used to be the Executive Pastor at The Chapel.
---- While in Denver, I'll be staying with my good friend Tim Coooper, and hopefully we'll get to cruise into the mountains, do some hiking, and talk deep about life and ministry. Cooper is currently interning at a church called TNL, which stands for "The Next Level." It looks like a dynamite church, and I'm looking forward to their Tuesday night service.
---- Yep, I bought an iPod Shuffle. For $88 on eBay. I can't believe how much stuff (songs, sermons, data) can fit on this little thing, and I bought the small version (512MB)! I highly recommend it, especially since you can use it for so many things and in so many ways. Smaller than a pack of Big Red, but not as big as a pack of Juicy Fruit.
---- Jennie is now 16 weeks pregnant. This pregnancy is going fast, but she did feel sick on Sunday and Monday. Just needs more rest and TLC. On that note, while I'm in Denver, Jennie is headed to Winona Lake (Indiana) to visit friends and influence people. She's taking Allie, staying with her friend Cathy, and on the road with another friend Addie.
---- This summer is going fast and furious. Last week, Brian Hunt was here for July 5th. We had lunch with Tom Bennardo. I had lunch with Tom Burns the other day. I had "breakfast" with Kary Oberbrunner the other day. We were in Akron over the weekend to do a wedding.
---- Speaking of weddings, I must give a shout out to Brian and Amanda Dente. This is one high-quality couple with some very high quality friends. Both in their late 20's, Brian and Amanda are very much in love with each other, in love with Jesus, and have a magnetic and positive influence on those around them. The people we met and saw at their wedding and reception were great too. Kinda reminds me how big the world is, actually. Here's the kind of people I'm talking about... Jennie and I look at the "seating chart" for the reception, and are initially disappointed that nobody we know is at our table.
Reluctantly, we mosey on over to our "assigned" seats and spend about three hours talking to a couple we just met, didn't really get to talk to anyone else, and of course we "strangers" all hugged before leaving them.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Movie Review: War of the Worlds
This Tom Cruise and Steven Spielberg predicted blockbuster came out last Wednesday, just in time for a huge July 4th rush at the box office. Whenever I saw previews or heard about Spielberg's remake of the H.G. Wells classic by the same name, I felt the urge to see this movie right away.
One disclaimer you must know when it comes to me and movies... Whatever movie I've seen lately seems to get a higher bias or rating because it's fresh in my mind. In other words, if I really like the movie I just saw, I come out of the theatre thinking how it's one of the best movies I've ever seen, even if it's not. It's like the "afterglow" of a good movie, it skews my perceptions.
Before seeing this movie, I thought I'd have that feeling coming out of the theater. With star-power like Cruise, Spielberg, Tim Robbins and Dakota Fanning, how could this not be what it was billed to be - the biggest and best movie of the summer?
In fact, an hour into this movie, I already had that feeling - that I'd leave the theater wondering where this movie would rank in my top 10 or so of all time.
Many reviewers, including myself, found a lot to love about War of the Worlds. The way Spielberg begins the story makes you empathize with a regular broken family and their struggles to relate with each other. I thought Tom Cruise did fine as the deadbeat dad, but other reviewers thought Cruise failed.
We all know it's an alien attack, but the way it begins and the lightning storms are just breathtaking. I spent much of the first hour of the movie at the edge of my seat. The aliens and their machines were believable, evil, and as scary as Spielberg hoped they'd be.
The movie also says a lot about how people - especially people en masse - react in situations of panic or widespread fear. Some pretty violent and disturbing scenes involve rioting crowds of people who are past the brink of insanity. I guess the movie also was meant to draw our minds back to 9/11 in some ways... and it succeeded. Much of the movie's story and effects were chilling, depressing, disgusting, and yes - entertaining!
However, I must be honest and tell you I left the theater a disappointed. This movie failed to achieve greatness on several accounts...
Tim Robbins is a great actor, but the scenes involving him were either too dark, inconsistent with the movie and plot, or represented Spielberg's cheesy tribute to M.Night Shyamalan's own version of alien-invasions in Signs. Since we're talking about 20 minutes of film time for T-Rob, it's important enough to mention.
Like most Hollywood action films, none of the "good guys" ever dies. Or gets hurt. Or gets tired. Or gets hungry. Even an alien movie should be more realistic.
My next thought relates to War of the Worlds as well as most movies in general - We all wish for a happy ending, and most movies deliver that. If Spielberg succeeds in making you care only about Tom Cruise's (uh, I mean Ray Farrior) family, then you've got your happy ending and Morgan Freeman's voice to tell you about it. Otherwise, in the end, some alien tripods just obliterated 90% of the earth's population and the world is covered in blood.
I left the theater thinking that this movie was more like a hodge-podge medley of OTHER MOVIES all rolled into one - and that's NOT a good thing. It's as if Spielberg spent a day watching Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow, Signs, I, Robot, Saving Private Ryan, and The Siege... and then decided to make a movie about them. That sounds harsh coming from a guy who wanted to see this movie and does have some good things to say about it.
If you like huge action, disturbing attacks and fight scenes, human drama, and Tom Cruise, then this is your kind of movie. It's really NOT a movie to take kids to, since there are some violent murders by aliens and people alike.
Sorry this review is so long. I'm not trying to take Ebert's job, I just like movies. Whenever I talk to people about movies, I realize we all have different opinions, and that's good! Instead of leaving the theater thinking "that's the best movie I've seen in 2005," I was left to wonder if it was as good as Batman Begins or Revenge of the Sith.
Overall rating: 3.1 stars (out of 4)
Other ratings:
Mr. and Mrs. Smith - 3.0 stars
Batman Begins - 3.4 stars
Revenge of the Sith - 3.1 stars
The Interpreter - 3.6 stars (Best of 2005 so far?)
Sahara - 1.0 stars
Hostage - 2.8 stars
One disclaimer you must know when it comes to me and movies... Whatever movie I've seen lately seems to get a higher bias or rating because it's fresh in my mind. In other words, if I really like the movie I just saw, I come out of the theatre thinking how it's one of the best movies I've ever seen, even if it's not. It's like the "afterglow" of a good movie, it skews my perceptions.
Before seeing this movie, I thought I'd have that feeling coming out of the theater. With star-power like Cruise, Spielberg, Tim Robbins and Dakota Fanning, how could this not be what it was billed to be - the biggest and best movie of the summer?
In fact, an hour into this movie, I already had that feeling - that I'd leave the theater wondering where this movie would rank in my top 10 or so of all time.
Many reviewers, including myself, found a lot to love about War of the Worlds. The way Spielberg begins the story makes you empathize with a regular broken family and their struggles to relate with each other. I thought Tom Cruise did fine as the deadbeat dad, but other reviewers thought Cruise failed.
We all know it's an alien attack, but the way it begins and the lightning storms are just breathtaking. I spent much of the first hour of the movie at the edge of my seat. The aliens and their machines were believable, evil, and as scary as Spielberg hoped they'd be.
The movie also says a lot about how people - especially people en masse - react in situations of panic or widespread fear. Some pretty violent and disturbing scenes involve rioting crowds of people who are past the brink of insanity. I guess the movie also was meant to draw our minds back to 9/11 in some ways... and it succeeded. Much of the movie's story and effects were chilling, depressing, disgusting, and yes - entertaining!
However, I must be honest and tell you I left the theater a disappointed. This movie failed to achieve greatness on several accounts...
Tim Robbins is a great actor, but the scenes involving him were either too dark, inconsistent with the movie and plot, or represented Spielberg's cheesy tribute to M.Night Shyamalan's own version of alien-invasions in Signs. Since we're talking about 20 minutes of film time for T-Rob, it's important enough to mention.
Like most Hollywood action films, none of the "good guys" ever dies. Or gets hurt. Or gets tired. Or gets hungry. Even an alien movie should be more realistic.
My next thought relates to War of the Worlds as well as most movies in general - We all wish for a happy ending, and most movies deliver that. If Spielberg succeeds in making you care only about Tom Cruise's (uh, I mean Ray Farrior) family, then you've got your happy ending and Morgan Freeman's voice to tell you about it. Otherwise, in the end, some alien tripods just obliterated 90% of the earth's population and the world is covered in blood.
I left the theater thinking that this movie was more like a hodge-podge medley of OTHER MOVIES all rolled into one - and that's NOT a good thing. It's as if Spielberg spent a day watching Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow, Signs, I, Robot, Saving Private Ryan, and The Siege... and then decided to make a movie about them. That sounds harsh coming from a guy who wanted to see this movie and does have some good things to say about it.
If you like huge action, disturbing attacks and fight scenes, human drama, and Tom Cruise, then this is your kind of movie. It's really NOT a movie to take kids to, since there are some violent murders by aliens and people alike.
Sorry this review is so long. I'm not trying to take Ebert's job, I just like movies. Whenever I talk to people about movies, I realize we all have different opinions, and that's good! Instead of leaving the theater thinking "that's the best movie I've seen in 2005," I was left to wonder if it was as good as Batman Begins or Revenge of the Sith.
Overall rating: 3.1 stars (out of 4)
Other ratings:
Mr. and Mrs. Smith - 3.0 stars
Batman Begins - 3.4 stars
Revenge of the Sith - 3.1 stars
The Interpreter - 3.6 stars (Best of 2005 so far?)
Sahara - 1.0 stars
Hostage - 2.8 stars
Monday, July 04, 2005
Agony of Deteeth
As our Allison adds teeth, she experiences pain and suffering. No pain, no gain, baby!
We had a great July 4th, taking in the Delaware 4th of July parade, going to an orchestra concert, and then catching the fireworks while driving around town. Jennie's parents were in town for the festivities, and we've had several cookoutst this weekend.
We're thankful for our country, our family, and our God!
We had a great July 4th, taking in the Delaware 4th of July parade, going to an orchestra concert, and then catching the fireworks while driving around town. Jennie's parents were in town for the festivities, and we've had several cookoutst this weekend.
We're thankful for our country, our family, and our God!
Friday, July 01, 2005
Book Review: The Connecting Church
Since my good friends Derrak and Danny recently shared about books they've read, I thought it was finally time for me to do the same.
I bought Randy Frazee's book, The Connecting Church a few years ago at a conference. I must have started reading it five times since then. Well, since I am starting a new degree program this summer through Denver Seminary, I found myself staring down a list of books that were suddenly labeled "required reading." I have enjoyed almost every book of the 2,000 pages I've been "required" to read.
Last night, I buckled down and blazed a trail through The Connecting Church. Frazee writes about how our society is full of lonely people, in a culture where individualism, isolation, and consumerism are all high priorities. Instead of pursuing quality friendships or connections, we pursue individual rights, freedoms, and achievements. Instead of being available to others and finding places of dialogue and fun with people, we isolate ourselves behind our backyard fences, iPod earphones, and online passwords. Instead of placing high values on friendship, family, and being a part of a team or mission, we think that consuming the next fad, the next income level, the next entertainment rush will make us feel better.
I expected Frazee to bring insight on today's culture, and even how that has all influenced the church. What I didn't expect was to be moved to tears by his detailed description of how Christian community and friendships can make such an incredible difference in lives, families, and neighborhoods.
Randy, you move me. Of all the books I've read for this class, yours is the one that got me thinking about times when I've experienced deep connection with other people - flashbacks of my experiences at Lake, The Chapel, Grace College, BCM, and Mosaic have powerful meaning and emotion as I think about them!
I was also moved to pursue that type of connection - and seek to provide that type of connection for others - here in Delaware! Frazee and I both know that's one reason Jennie and I took the plunge and headed south on I-71. We believed God wanted to use us to build a strong, healthy place of connection with others and with Him.
I thought his book was going to be mainly for pastors or church leaders in small group ministry, but really it's for anyone. I'll go ahead and give The Connecting Church a 9.0 (out of a possible 10.0) on the Gary's unnamed book-rating scale.
(Editor's Note: At the time of this post, Gary Underwood has just one book to finish to complete all his reading - Sue Mallory's well-known blockbuster, The Equipping Church. Thanks to Jennie and to a great recumbent exercise bike for the time and focus to read.
I bought Randy Frazee's book, The Connecting Church a few years ago at a conference. I must have started reading it five times since then. Well, since I am starting a new degree program this summer through Denver Seminary, I found myself staring down a list of books that were suddenly labeled "required reading." I have enjoyed almost every book of the 2,000 pages I've been "required" to read.
Last night, I buckled down and blazed a trail through The Connecting Church. Frazee writes about how our society is full of lonely people, in a culture where individualism, isolation, and consumerism are all high priorities. Instead of pursuing quality friendships or connections, we pursue individual rights, freedoms, and achievements. Instead of being available to others and finding places of dialogue and fun with people, we isolate ourselves behind our backyard fences, iPod earphones, and online passwords. Instead of placing high values on friendship, family, and being a part of a team or mission, we think that consuming the next fad, the next income level, the next entertainment rush will make us feel better.
I expected Frazee to bring insight on today's culture, and even how that has all influenced the church. What I didn't expect was to be moved to tears by his detailed description of how Christian community and friendships can make such an incredible difference in lives, families, and neighborhoods.
Randy, you move me. Of all the books I've read for this class, yours is the one that got me thinking about times when I've experienced deep connection with other people - flashbacks of my experiences at Lake, The Chapel, Grace College, BCM, and Mosaic have powerful meaning and emotion as I think about them!
I was also moved to pursue that type of connection - and seek to provide that type of connection for others - here in Delaware! Frazee and I both know that's one reason Jennie and I took the plunge and headed south on I-71. We believed God wanted to use us to build a strong, healthy place of connection with others and with Him.
I thought his book was going to be mainly for pastors or church leaders in small group ministry, but really it's for anyone. I'll go ahead and give The Connecting Church a 9.0 (out of a possible 10.0) on the Gary's unnamed book-rating scale.
(Editor's Note: At the time of this post, Gary Underwood has just one book to finish to complete all his reading - Sue Mallory's well-known blockbuster, The Equipping Church. Thanks to Jennie and to a great recumbent exercise bike for the time and focus to read.
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Happy Birthday, Allie!
We love you, little sweet cheekies!!
(Allie turned 1 yesterday, and we took her to the zoo.)
(Allie turned 1 yesterday, and we took her to the zoo.)
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
He's Here!
Yesterday, Jennie and I got to see our good friends Dan & Jill Bahry in Akron - and welcome their new son - Caden Joseph Bahry - into the world!! He came 6 pounds, 8 ounces, 19 inches long, at 10:56am.
Jill was on bed-rest in the hospital for about a week, and Caden was "breech" - meaning he was positioned "feet down" instead of head down. While I plan to tell you more about how happy we are for them, and how incredibly cute and precious Caden is...
I thought I'd post some words that Jill wrote this past week, about how God has blessed and encouraged her and Dan over the past year... She wrote this, and Dan read it to their young marrieds group at The Chapel, and e-mailed it out to many family and friends. Even if you don't know them, I think you should hear this stuff!!
"The way that God has affected me this week is an incredible, unique answer to a pretty vague prayer. For about 37 weeks, Dan and I have been praying for God to help us be good parents to Caden when he arrives. We had no real specifics in mind, just knew that we really needed God to be a part in this big change in our lives. This week God has answered that prayer in lots of little and not so little ways. I think to explain it better, I'll use the chorus to one of my new favorite songs. (by Natalie Grant called HELD). "This is what it means to be loved, and to know that the promise was when everything fell, we'd be held."
Even though this last month of our pregnancy has not been at all what we expected, God has taught me so much. He didn't keep us from troubles, he simply (and lovingly) held us the whole way. He allowed me to feel a peace that passes understanding when I was told that I'd be admitted to the hospital. He told Caden to kick adn play while I was sitting on the side of the highway with a flat tire, just so I would know he was doing alright. He kept Dan safe as he traveled at warp speed to get to the hospital to be with us. And He has (most of all), kept us calm, close, and resting in Him the whole way.
Most people who have kids have already warned us how much having a baby will change our lives and to always expect the unexpecter. For me (being a "planner" by nature), this second part was going to be a bit tough. This week, God has reminded me that He is the Master Planner and that no matter how hare I try, I could never orchestrate a day as perfect as He can. What a great lesson for parenting. I would have never chosen for all of this to happen, but WOW- I'm so glad that the choice was not mine. This reminds me of a couple of verses that I'll leave you with...
"As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughs." Isaiah 55:9
Even though we don't understand why God does certain things, our comfort comes from... Psalm 103:11
"For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him;"
It's awesome to know that for as much as we don't understand his ways, that's how much He loves us. His love for us is exactly enough to fill the gap. God is good."
Jill was on bed-rest in the hospital for about a week, and Caden was "breech" - meaning he was positioned "feet down" instead of head down. While I plan to tell you more about how happy we are for them, and how incredibly cute and precious Caden is...
I thought I'd post some words that Jill wrote this past week, about how God has blessed and encouraged her and Dan over the past year... She wrote this, and Dan read it to their young marrieds group at The Chapel, and e-mailed it out to many family and friends. Even if you don't know them, I think you should hear this stuff!!
"The way that God has affected me this week is an incredible, unique answer to a pretty vague prayer. For about 37 weeks, Dan and I have been praying for God to help us be good parents to Caden when he arrives. We had no real specifics in mind, just knew that we really needed God to be a part in this big change in our lives. This week God has answered that prayer in lots of little and not so little ways. I think to explain it better, I'll use the chorus to one of my new favorite songs. (by Natalie Grant called HELD). "This is what it means to be loved, and to know that the promise was when everything fell, we'd be held."
Even though this last month of our pregnancy has not been at all what we expected, God has taught me so much. He didn't keep us from troubles, he simply (and lovingly) held us the whole way. He allowed me to feel a peace that passes understanding when I was told that I'd be admitted to the hospital. He told Caden to kick adn play while I was sitting on the side of the highway with a flat tire, just so I would know he was doing alright. He kept Dan safe as he traveled at warp speed to get to the hospital to be with us. And He has (most of all), kept us calm, close, and resting in Him the whole way.
Most people who have kids have already warned us how much having a baby will change our lives and to always expect the unexpecter. For me (being a "planner" by nature), this second part was going to be a bit tough. This week, God has reminded me that He is the Master Planner and that no matter how hare I try, I could never orchestrate a day as perfect as He can. What a great lesson for parenting. I would have never chosen for all of this to happen, but WOW- I'm so glad that the choice was not mine. This reminds me of a couple of verses that I'll leave you with...
"As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughs." Isaiah 55:9
Even though we don't understand why God does certain things, our comfort comes from... Psalm 103:11
"For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His love for those who fear Him;"
It's awesome to know that for as much as we don't understand his ways, that's how much He loves us. His love for us is exactly enough to fill the gap. God is good."
Beautiful Kids!
Over the weekend, Jennie had the chance to pick up some maternity clothes from her good friend, Jamie Fuller. I couldn't resist posting this picture of the two Fuller girls, Chloe and Claire. John and Jamie Fuller also have a son - who I think is 8 months old now - named Jack. He is also very cute!
Why, I ask you - WHY?
Some people use their blogs to confess their problems or their sins online. Well, I guess it's my turn.
One of the things I cannot resist is making stupid faces when people are trying to take a picture. Especially when I'm in a group of guys, and lots of cameras are flashing.
This picture is a perfect look at my imperfections. Here I am, with longtime friends David Ward, Jamie Kozick (and his new son Jayson), Chadd Sommers (and his new son Noah), and me - in what I thought was a cool shirt I got on our vacation.
Anyhow, if you enlarge this friendly photo, you'll see the worst side of Gary coming out. I want to publicly apologize to Aimee Kozick and anyone else who has to look at this picture.
Sometimes, I justify the faces as a method of stretching out my cheeks and preparing for the next actual smile. It gets tiresome posing and acting happy for the camera. Okay, I truly WAS happy, and it was great to see these guys.
Ward? I've known Dave since 2nd or 3rd grade, and he remains a good friend from Lake, lives in Copley, and works for Diebold. He's also a Penn State grad, probably waiting for Paterno to retire before he can be proud of his school again.
Kozick? I've known Koe since 2nd grade, and we have tons of memories and inside jokes together. We shared the rap music phase and the Ohio High School football phase (which is still going on), and also were involved in each other's weddings! We were in Akron to celebrate the arrival of he and Aimee's new son, Jayson. Koe lives near Washington D.C., and I'm not supposed to tell you who he works for.
Sommers? I've known Chadd since junior high at The Chapel. Chadd didn't go to Lake High, except on nights and weekends. It was a blast living close to Chadd for our four years in Akron again, and great to see his son Noah doing so well!
I think all of these people have boys just trying to impresss Allison. Get in line, gentlemen! And wait 25 years. =)
One of the things I cannot resist is making stupid faces when people are trying to take a picture. Especially when I'm in a group of guys, and lots of cameras are flashing.
This picture is a perfect look at my imperfections. Here I am, with longtime friends David Ward, Jamie Kozick (and his new son Jayson), Chadd Sommers (and his new son Noah), and me - in what I thought was a cool shirt I got on our vacation.
Anyhow, if you enlarge this friendly photo, you'll see the worst side of Gary coming out. I want to publicly apologize to Aimee Kozick and anyone else who has to look at this picture.
Sometimes, I justify the faces as a method of stretching out my cheeks and preparing for the next actual smile. It gets tiresome posing and acting happy for the camera. Okay, I truly WAS happy, and it was great to see these guys.
Ward? I've known Dave since 2nd or 3rd grade, and he remains a good friend from Lake, lives in Copley, and works for Diebold. He's also a Penn State grad, probably waiting for Paterno to retire before he can be proud of his school again.
Kozick? I've known Koe since 2nd grade, and we have tons of memories and inside jokes together. We shared the rap music phase and the Ohio High School football phase (which is still going on), and also were involved in each other's weddings! We were in Akron to celebrate the arrival of he and Aimee's new son, Jayson. Koe lives near Washington D.C., and I'm not supposed to tell you who he works for.
Sommers? I've known Chadd since junior high at The Chapel. Chadd didn't go to Lake High, except on nights and weekends. It was a blast living close to Chadd for our four years in Akron again, and great to see his son Noah doing so well!
I think all of these people have boys just trying to impresss Allison. Get in line, gentlemen! And wait 25 years. =)
Take 2.
Here's a successful photo with a group of friends, where I actually smile and don't ruin the memory. Notice the "new guys" Jayson Kozick and Noah Sommers, both just a few months old.
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