Agent Pipes

It's Up To You

2011-09-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

A couple days ago, after surviving a grueling 60 minute work out known as "Core Class," Candi and I were talking about the fact that we wouldn't get as much out of the class if we were doing the class alone. Knowing that Candi is around, plus the occassional "LET'S GO!" or "THIRTY MORE SECONDS... THIS IS WHERE YOU MAKE YOUR MONEY!" motivated me to not give up and to push just a little bit harder than my mind and body wants to. Without my highly motivational wife and friends I would probably not even go to the class. Anyone else with me? In reality, we were really reflecting on the strength and determination that comes from knowing that we're not alone - the encouragement to push on despite the struggle and weariness - the vibrance which is almost gleaned from others as we drive toward a common goal.

And then I was immediately drawn to the parallel in our relationship with God and our mission between now and eternity. I thought about how I would quit so soon or not even enter the gym without a partner, an encourager. I thought about how desparately the individual members of the body of Christ need one another.

So may this be of some encouragement to you. Don't try to do something alone that God didn't intend for you to do alone. I know the pain and frustration that people can cause within the church of God, but I also know that I cannot do anything about the past. My choice is to draw closer to God in daily prayer, pouring those hurts out to Him, and to wait for God to act. And while I wait I know that He has commanded me to push on in obedience (to everything else that He has already commanded me to do).

If you've been walking as a lone wolf, seek the pack. If you're keeping your distance because of anger or hurt, don't leave it at that! Do you believe that extending forgiveness is far greater than bitterness or anger? If today were the last day of your life, would you want to carry the weight of unforgiveness and condemning others to your grave?

Or if you think that being with the church is unnecessary and you can have a relationship with God without it, consider the following:

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another. As I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." John 13:34, 35. It's tough to fulfill this command from Jesus by yourself.

"Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. But exort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." Hebrews 3:12, 13 Two for one deal - warning and an encouragement! Nice.

"And [the new church] continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in prayers." Acts 2:42

"so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and individually members of one another." Romans 12:5 Without you, the body is missing some vital part; a solitary hand or foot laying around is just freakish. It might have worked in the Adams family, but not in God's family.

"But God composed the body, having given greater honor to that part which lacks it, ²⁵ that there should be no schism in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. ²⁶ And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it." 1 Corinthians 12:24-26 And may this passage be an encouragement to those of us faithfully fellowshipping - show no favoritism; judge no one by their appearance; build no cliques; seek out those in the body of Christ with whom you feel you have no connection, because in truth you have more of a connection with them than any unsaved person. The time you take to make the connection and the love that you show is just what others (and you!) are seeking.

I Would Quit Too

2011-09-01T00:41:00.000-07:00

I read this story today and am pretty frustrated by it. This is the latest in a continuing stream of ridiculous claims made by some Democrats. In the athletic realm this stuff is called poor sportmanship. From where I stand it looks like they lost a big game and are just hurling insults in desparation. Hopefully the nation doesn't listen to or believe this junk.

Francis Chan – Crazy Love

2011-08-26T19:45:00.000-07:00

For a couple of reasons, I normally shy away from books that seem to be all the rage in the Christian church scene. Really it's probably just my old fashioned-ness avoiding new fangled contraptions and ideas. One of the books that I veered away from was Crazy Love by Francis Chan - big mistake. I ended up buying it for Candice a few months ago and she really enjoyed it. It was challenging, she said. After hearing some of the difficult topics that he addressed I was very interested.

I have to say this was one of the most refreshing books I’ve read in a while. I took it in small bites and every day finished with a healthy dose of reality. I’ve jotted down a few of the quotes that stood out to me the most. I don't think there's much point to commenting on them much; he did an amazing job of being frank and poignant.

“This book is for those who want more of Jesus. It is for those that are bored with what American Christianity offers.” Pg 21

“It is important that we not measure our spiritual health by the people around us, who are pretty much like us.” Pg. 22

“We forget that God never had an identity crisis. He knows that He’s great…” Pg. 22

The fact that we’re the only ones in the universe doesn’t show that the universe is an awfully big waste of space. The purpose of such a big universe is to demonstrate an unfathomably great God.

“Isn’t it a comfort to worship a God we cannot exaggerate?” Pg. 31

“… we keep on questioning Him: “Why did You make me with this body, instead of that one?” “Why are so many people dying of starvation?” “Why are there so many planets with nothing living on them?” “Why is my family so messed up?” “Why don’t You make Yourself more obvious to the people who need You?”
“The answer to each of these questions is simply this: because He’s God. He has more of a right to ask us why so many people are starving.” Pg. 33

“I can pretty much guarantee you that your funeral will be nice. They all are. The fact is, at that point, you won’t care. … When we face the holy God, “nice” isn’t what we will be concerned with, and it definitely isn’t what He will be thinking about.” Pg. 50

“The truth is [a lukewarm Christian’s life] wouldn’t look much different if they suddenly stopped believe in God.” Pg. 78

“When you read [the letter to the Laodicians in the book of Revelations], do you naturally conclude that to be “spit” out of Jesus’ mouth means you’re a part of His kingdom? When you read the words “wretched, pitiful, poor blind, and naked,” do you think that He’s describing saints?” Pg. 84

Francis uses several pages to provide a type of spiritual litmus test. You might want to buckle up when you get to this part.

“If one hundred people represented the world’s population, fifty-three of those would live on less than $2 a day. Do you realize that if you make $4000 a month, you automatically make one hundred times more than the average person on this planet?... Which is more messed up – that we have so much compared to everyone else, or that we don’t think we’re rich? … The reality is that whether we acknowledge our wealth or not, being rich is a serious disadvantage spiritually. As William Wilberforce once said, “Prosperity hardens the heart.” Pg. 89-90.

Ouch, Francis; that hurt. I think your getting a little too personal there…

“Why do so few people genuinely find joy and pleasure in their relationship with God? Why do most people feel they have to either pay God back for all He’s done (buy His love) or somehow keep making up for all their inadequacies and failures (prove their love)?” 102

“What are you doing right now that requires faith?” Pg. 124 Uuuuhhhh.

“He calls us to trust Him so completely that we are unafraid to put ourselves in situations where we will be in trouble if He doesn’t come through.” Pg. 124

“A person who is obsessed with Jesus is more concerned with his or her character than comfort.” Pg. 146

At one point he references an amazing quote by Oswald Chambers: ‘Never make a principle out of your experience; let God be as original with other people as He is with you.’”

“We go to church to hear a well-developed sermon and a convicting thought. We’ve trained ourselves to believe that if we’re convicted, our job is done. If you’re just hearing the Word and not actually doing something with it, you’re deceiving yourself.” Pg. 184

So far I’ve spoken with two others that have read this book and they’ve both had the same reaction: wow. If you (dare to) pick it up I pray you have the same experience.

I'm Following This One

2011-08-23T04:49:00.000-07:00

Being in the military I get to meet a lot of amazing people. Of course, we only get a limited amount of time together, but, hey, I get a lot of friends on Facebook that way.

Seriously, though. Once Candi and I got (somewhat) used to the pain of moving away from our friends and family (or them moving from us first), we came to treasure the cornucopia of experiences and backgrounds that we're blessed to interact with and learn from.

Some have come through the joy and stress of adopting a child (or multiple children). Some have dealt with life threatening illnesses and diseases. We've become close with people who are just starting out in their marriage and we have been able to be an encouragement to them about the realities of a biblical marriage. We've met others who have lived a full life of sacrifice and love in their marriage and we've been encouraged by them. Some have been forced out of jobs because of their faith in Jesus Christ. Others have been threatened with the same and after standing on their convictions, God was able to demonstrate that He's not a myth or delusion - but rather faithful and good - and that He cares for His children.

Each and every experience and person is so different yet they are all strung together by one cord - their faith in God through Jesus Christ. And our faith has been strengthened all the while. Truly the words of Hebrew 10:24-25 have been proven true to me: "And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together as is the matter of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the day approaching."

One of the most recent blessings to our lives is the McNeals. You can read more about their experiences here. I'm definitely following that site and I'm glad to be able to share their lives for two months or so.

I Think He Jams

2011-08-14T17:26:00.000-07:00

This is a clip from one of my favorite artists, Ben Harper, performing on the Davis Letterman show.

Well Said

2011-08-11T11:53:00.050-07:00

I know that I can always find people to agree with my opinions, but this seems like common sense to me. I find it interesting that this recording was made decades ago and in the time since then we've obviously moved much further down the road of entitlements and socialism. Here in the present, we now all get to sit back and watch history unfold a little further as the consequences of the decisions of our elected leaders come to fruition.

Although I think it will be even more interesting to see in the end the purpose for which God chose to raise up the nation of the U.S.A.

Job 12:23

²³ He makes nations great, and destroys them;
He enlarges nations, and guides them.

Jeremiah 50:8-10

⁹ For behold, I will raise and cause to come up against Babylon
An assembly of great nations from the north country,
And they shall array themselves against her;
From there she shall be captured.
Their arrows shall be like those of an expert warrior;^[a]
None shall return in vain.
¹⁰ And Chaldea shall become plunder;
All who plunder her shall be satisfied,” says the LORD.

Ezekiel 29:15

¹⁵ It shall be the lowliest of kingdoms; it shall never again exalt itself above the nations, for I will diminish them so that they will not rule over the nations anymore.

In the end I think we need to remember that our nation, like all nations, is His instrument. We are not the Second Israel. Honestly, the state of our hearts before God probably shows that we more resemble a second Catholic Rome - much tradition but little faith. Perhaps the question is, to what extent may the faith of our people, the humility of our nation, or the repentance of our hearts influence the way in which He uses us?

That's Just Funny.

2011-08-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Just sharing some quotes from an online article...

"China bluntly criticized the United States... saying the "good old days" of borrowing were over."

... I wonder how that is said in Cantonese. I thought that was an American idiom.

"China -- the United States' biggest creditor -- said Washington only had itself to blame for its plight and called for a new stable global reserve currency."

... this one is just great! This horse is dead already, but why are in huge debt to a communist country who is our largest enemy at this point in time?

... What's that? China is pointing their finger at this situation for support for a global reserve currency. Now that's something the Anti-christ could use!

"China scorned the United States for its "debt addiction"..."

... Whatever! Oh, wait. I agree with this one. But honestly, what are we really going to do about it?

"[China] urged the United States to cut military and social welfare expenditure."

... I'll bet China would appreciate us cutting our military expenditure.

... I actually agree with cutting a huge amount of our social welfare expenditure, but isn't this coming from a communist country? I'm confused.

"Obama called on Congress to back measures to give tax relief to the middle class, extend jobless benefits and pass long-delayed international trade pacts."

... Nothing new from the President. Give more money away in hopes that people will spend, spend, spend! That will help! I'm just saying how about we go for a healthy, stable economy? I'd prefer thrift over huge investment growth.

... How about we stop paying people who are out of a job? Necessity is the mother of invention and I think people will be much more motivated to come up with ways to make money when Uncle Sam isn't footing the bill.

"India's finance minister Pranab Mukherjee told reporters: "There is no need to unnecessarily press the panic button.""

... Spiritually speaking, I think it's time we do that here in the U.S.

DMZ 4 - Confusious say, "Man who stand on toilet..."

2011-08-04T15:52:00.003-07:00

This is the third bit o' toilet wisdom in the South Korean train station which stood so proudly and full of hope on the dividing line between the north and the south. Yet again I was impressed by the profoundness that this bathroom displayed. All these signs kind of kept with a theme: you can have your brain washed and your hands washed all before leaving the bathroom.

At first glance this seems like a very practical bit of wisdom aimed directly at lumberjacks. Without such advice maybe Paul would have been Babeless pretty quick. Now, I don't know how much lumbering they do in Korea but if Confucius could eventually end up sending his advice to the world at large perhaps this bathroom could, too.

Anyway, on second glance there seems to be some other applications.

Political: very rarely does someone "big" in Washington surprise anyone. They generally follow a party line, the crowd, or the voters. In this arena I, like many other people I know are asking, if this tree falls in the woods, does anyone care? Obviously we should care which direction our elected leaders fall, but what do we do when our "woods" are full of "trees" that we would never have planted? That wasn't rhetorical - I really don't know.

Relational: I'm a parent. It can't be helped that I'm concerned about which direction my children are leaning. I think parents have the ability to greatly influence the leaning of our children - and I think we have a responsibility to do so. The question is, what actions are we taking to influence them? Regardless of how we answer that question, we will influence them. Our inaction in this case may in fact be the biggest push that our developing adults receive toward falling in the wrong direction... Again, what steps am I taking or not taking? What steps should we be taking? Why aren't we taking them?

Spiritual: Like the AF always says, "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." And like somebody else says, "If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything." And then there's always, "If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine whether it is from God or whether I speak from my own authority." One of the amazing things about God is that He leaves it all up to us. We get to choose. The choice seems to be extremely easy, yet actually making the choice seems extremely hard. However, we have the promise that if we intentionally lean toward God, He will show us the best way to live. (John 7:17, Hebrews 11:6) I'm going to daily make the choice to lean toward God, so that when it comes time for falling (which will surely come) I know I'll land in His hands.

Thank you again R-Toto for your wise thoughts. Until the next time nature calls.

July 4th, 2011

2011-07-29T21:55:00.002-07:00

On the 4th of July weekend we traveled to Enid, OK, which is kind of unusual because it's not much different than Altus... still Oklahoma. Enid however is a bit bigger and so they have their own Home Depot, their own Starbucks, and even though we didn't visit it I'm pretty sure they had a Dairy Queen somewhere in town.

Of course the only thing that could get us to Enid is dear friends.

This just happened to be some friends that we were stationed in Japan with. Between the two of our families there were five young ladies and two young men. Within minutes of being in their house they had managed to drag a hose out, attach it to a toy slide, lay the end of the slide on a tarp and cover the tarp with dish soap.

Shablam! Insto-matic water park!

Shortly after, we went for a walk by the "pond." That turned out to be a water hazard on the city golf course. It was still a nice walk.

The definition of trust.

For memory's sake, this is the tree by which I ate my first ant - a surprisingly enjoyable citrus flavor.

Where's Waldo?

The second day was full of guy stuff.

The fish didn't bite. They were just plain scared.

We walked a quarter mile across a lake (which only put us in three feet deep water) and laid out a trot line. I was quickly education that it's not used to catch "trot."

The rest of the afternoon was filled with the pictures below.

I'm proud to say that the boys are a pretty natural shot.

Christian nailed a bottle from about 25 feet. Those rabbits on the base golf course need to be on guard.

Wyatt successfully shot my sunglasses somewhere in the range of 15 feet (they were on the bottle... not on me).

A pretty much unforgettable weekend. Thanks Phillips'!

Choose This Day

2011-07-17T20:11:00.000-07:00

When we talk to others about home schooling we normally get two questions. First, how do our kids learn socialization skills when they aren't spending eight hours a day around twenty to thirty other young adults? I talked about that one back here.

The second question is why we, as Christians, would want to remove our children from an environment that needs the "salt" as Jesus called us. Something in yesterday's news (more on that below) brought that question to mind, or even more, what our answer has been since day one.

Believers in Christ are all too familiar with the daily struggle to, as Paul puts it, "walk in the Spirit and ... not fulfill the lusts of the flesh." Wrestling against our "flesh," as the Bible often calls our human bent toward sinful behaviors, is a daily task - I want to gossip, I want to complain, I was to stress out instead of pray, I want to get angry, and on and on and on. What does this have to do with homeschooling?

Basically, I find it unreasonable to expect my children to accomplish something that I am still striving to do and that is to be more of an influence on those around me than they are on me. Let's be honest - children don't encourage one another to do the right thing in deed or word when left alone in a group. After all, as God has called me to obedience I have had to remove myself from many people and situations that make it too difficult to be holy as God has called me to be (1 Peter 1:14-16).

On the other hand, I've found that with the right moral and ethical foundation and training children can eventually learn to make great decisions (wise ones). With the right foundations, when faced with wrong things and tough situations they will be equipped to make the right decision to avoid it (Prov. 22:3).

So, the news? California recently passed a law which requires homosexual lifestyles to be taught in all levels of history curiculum. That according to CNN and Fox News. So what does a Christian parent trying to raise a person to adulthood do when dealt that hand? The answer to me is obvious. When an institution is doing all it can to teach my children to appreciate and accept a morality that opposes the morality that I am trying to teach them - and I'm giving them twice as many hours a day as I have to do it! - the decision is easy. Regardless of the financial cost, regardless of the cost of person goals, regardless of the time burden. I won't sacrifice my children's hearts and minds on the alter of "life experience."

For those of us not living is California we are in a good position. We can look to the decisions and laws made there as the wind before the storm, like turning of the leaves in the fall. We can choose to change our lifestyles now and make moves to ensure our children aren't indoctrinated with lies.

Steve Maxwell from Titus2 put it this way:
"Dads desiring a godly legacy understand the need to train their children's minds in a Christ-focused, virtuous environment. They will pay their property tax bills (much goes to public and charter schools and state colleges) without the "benefit" of having their children's education funded in order to avoid the godless, promiscuity-promoting, humanistic environment that the state system provides. Families avoiding state-funded education bear the added financial burden to purchase their own curriculum to ensure that God has His place in the knowledge that is shaping their children's minds."

Don't Forget

2011-06-09T05:15:00.000-07:00

It doesn't seem like it's been over 10 years since the September 11th attacks, but my line of work never really lets me forget that we have enemies (consisting of a list which includes some that rather surprise me) that are seeking to subvert our country's existance, steal our information, and break into our secure physical and cyber areas.

However, I often don't think about those around me that don't work in a similar type of arena or that don't have access to the briefs and info that I do. Consequently, I thought I would post a couple of open source stories that got little to no publicity. Here they are for a couple of reasons:
(1) I think everyone in the U.S.A. that is not involved with security needs to be a little less ignorant of the threats around us. I think it's silly to assume that people would panic if they knew what the enemy was doing in our own backyard. I don't see Israeli's or the Sudanese going wacky; they just make appropriate life-style changes for the threats that they live with. America needs to live in the truth.
(2) Those that are working in the endless, thankless (for the most part) jobs of protecting us from hidden and secretive threats, plots, and plans should be given some props. Should we really ask after the fact, "Why did this (fill the blank) attack happen?" or should we ask "Why didn't those other ones come to pass?"

So if you have time please take in these short stories about what is happening all around us. Don't be someone that sees suspicious activities and assumes that it's nothing. Don't make yourself an easy choice for our enemies to exploit.

Two men living in Kentucky who were actively supplying our enemy with arms and participated in IED attachs in the Middle East.
http://www.cnn.com/2011/CRIME/05/31/kentucky.iraqis.arrested/index.html?eref=rss_crime

This is over an extensive plot by some that worked at JFK to cause an insanely high explosion.
http://www.examiner.com/public-safety-in-national/imam-convicted-of-plotting-terrorist-attack-at-jfk-airport

"Yeah, I Schpreckin"

2011-03-26T19:16:00.000-07:00

I'm sure by now most people know what the Rosseta Stone software is. The kids started about three months ago using it to learn some Espanol. It's great seeing them whip out a little culture when we're talking about canyons and quesadillas, and about how our gato es muy gordo y flaco. I haven't yet started on it yet myself, but I did take one semester of Spanish in high school. Mi llamo Miguel (at least, that's what I went with for that semester - don't tell my parents that I wished they named me Mike).

So going back to my high school days brought up other memories and other Mike's. I'll be ever thankful to the one that introduced me to this other Spanish Mike. Whoever you are, thank you.

I guess since the AF is providing the software for me to expand my skillset (is that a new buzz word?) I should probably spend some time on it. Maybe they'll let me say "clear to land" in other languages than English then.

DMZ 3 - Confusious say, "Man who stand on toilet..."

2011-03-13T13:21:00.000-07:00

This one was on the "station" to the right of mine. This one almost speaks for itself, buuuut...

Something I seem daily reminded of is the value of time. Even as I write these thoughts I have to decide what it's worth to me, and why. I spend moments with my children each day, moments with Candi, reading books, praying, working, and playing. But almost without exception I think "Man, it's already ... o'clock." So there never seems to be enough time in the day. I know that if we were given more time and our bodies would go longer without needing sleep we would fill every second and that's the thrust of it - we would fill it, intentionally or apathetically, but it would be filled.

And with each moment we draw nearer to death, which is one of the few sure things. "And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgement." Kind of morbid, but I think it's important to face reality - and not ignore it.

There are times that I call down the hall, "Kids, get in the car. We're leaving." I almost always get the response, "Where are we going?" That's a great question. The answer to that question determines what preparations they'll make. The answer to that question determines what they will spend time on before going. The answer to that question determines how excited they are about leaving. The answer to that question determines what their expectations will be for the future.

The question of God is obviously a big deal with these questions. There are plenty of other important factors that determine what I'll do between now and death, but I think the God question must be answered first. After answering that, every other question changes. I won't determine how I will spend my time the same way whether or not God exists. My priorities or the things that are important to me won't be the same. No, I think this is a deal-breaking question.

In the end, I somewhat disagree with the wisdom of this one bathroom sign. I believe death comes when it's supposed to. I only hope that I find myself prepared and not caught off guard, thinking I still had things to do.

Time Is On My Side

2011-03-12T07:25:00.000-07:00

This is the first Saturday since being home in the States that didn't have high demands on it so Candi and I enjoyed some deep conversation this morning. Topic of discussion: what in the world is daylight savings time?

Confession: my mind doesn't get the math. I'm glad that my whole family is in the same time zone this year. That'll save me some headaches.

This is what we read on the topic.
Why Observe DST?

Many countries observe DST, and many do not. The reason many countries implement DST is in hopes to make better use of the daylight in the evenings, as well as some believe that it could be linked to reducing the amount of road accidents and injuries. The extra hour of daylight in the evening is said to give children more social time with friends and family and can even boost the tourism industry because it increases the amount of outdoor activies.

DST is also considered as a means to save energy due to less artificial light needed during the evening hours—clocks are set one hour ahead during the spring, and one hour back to standard time in the autumn. However, many studies disagree about the energy savings of DST and while some may show a positive outcome of the energy savings, others do not.

It is difficult to predict what will happen with Daylight Saving Time in the future. The daylight saving date in many countries may change from time to time due to special events or conditions.The United States, Canada and some other countries extended DST in 2007. The new start date is the second Sunday in March (previously the first Sunday in April) through to the first Sunday in November (previously the last Sunday in October).

Since joining the military we've only observed daylight savings one year... this one. Arizona (our first and third assignments) has let everyone in else in the states know that you're all crazy and we're simply not changing our clocks. Japan didn't participate. My Pastor in Korea said that the RoK tried it one year and it almost brought the entire economic infrastructure down. The church we're fellowshiping with this weekend change all their service times to allow people to screw this up. I like the benefits of it in the summer time, but I wonder how long it will last.

Here's a link that lists the countries that observe for those that have friends and family around the world.

Living the Dream

2011-03-02T05:16:00.000-07:00

I now have 2713 days left in the Air Force until I'm retirement eligible. Maybe blogging about that is like my daughter saying she has six years until graduation. It's a little early, hey?

The retirement concept in the military is a little different because it's really just preparation for another job. So then I'm left thinking about what that job will be and how I should prepare for it. But how do I prepare for something I don't know? Here's my game plan which will probably get revised often, but I thought it would be good to have it here to look back on one day and think "That's funny."

1. Pray. That sounds like the church answers I hear from my kids: "God" "love" "Jesus" "the Bible." I tell my kids that those answers are great when they are correct answers. So as you've all seen from the past prayer is something I consider on a practical rather than religious level. So I'll pray about... well, I'm not all together sure yet. I probably need some more brainwashing and better glasses, frankly.

2. Focus on improving the skills that God has placed before me now. They may only be needful at this time of my life, or they may be a stepping stone. Either way, those skills are worth the attention.

3. Watch those that God has placed around me (friends, family). God has provided me with amazing friends and family who love God and teach me daily how to pursue dreams and desires in a healthy way.

4. Don't obsess over what job or activity I'll be doing; God's plans are always about the people that we will have influence on and about His glory - not me and mine.

So that's the "road map." It's not very definitive, but really how can it be when the Bible says "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." and "A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps." and "A man’s steps are of the LORD; How then can a man understand his own way?"

While I'm thinking about this, does anyone have any suggestions?

Wash That Thing

2011-02-22T16:11:00.000-07:00

I recently got into a discussion with a good friend over the importance of attending a college or university. That's a topic for another time, but we had to confess that every argument brought forth on either side was driven by our experiences. I told her, "You're just saying these things because that's what you've been taught and raised in. You've been brainwashed." (paraphrased) I was teasing.

I've also had many discussions with people about my faith in God, His Son Jesus, and the Bible that ended with the other person saying in more or less words, "Dale, you're just saying that because you're brainwashed into thinking it."

I think I have to go on record to say, yes, I'm brainwashed, but that I did it intentionally. And I think that's a good thing, but may require an explanation.

I think every experience or learning point that we encounter shapes our thinking in small or large ways. It is a shame to stop learning. It's foolish to avoid anything that may prove our beliefs or thoughts wrong. For example, in grade school I really like math. I told myself that I would seek out opportunities to learn what I could about it. In the same way, my faith in the God of the Bible, Jesus as described in the Bible, and the Bible itself are things I once knew a little about and then intentionally chose to seek out opportunities to learn what I could about them. In doing so, I've intentionally guided my worldview and perspective in a certain direction.

Romans 12:2, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."

The biggest objection to this is that it makes me close-minded. Frankly, I don't think it make me less open to ideas, it simply filters those that I have found to be categorically empty, false, or a waste of time. Some people say that they will try anything once; I believe there are somethings that I just don't need to experience and those things can generally be seen quite a ways off and avoided. Going back to the math example, sometimes I would learn something that made me change the way I looked at certain problems; adjustments had to be made. Other times I would come to an unexpected conclusion and realize that somewhere I had broken a math rule. If I had compared my calculations with the unchangeable rules of math, I would have avoided going down that mathmatical road.

On the other hand, it can bee seen both way. Those that believe being a Christian causes close-mindedness are being awfully close-minded toward the possibility of one faith being right and every other faith being wrong. I think the search for truth has to be conducted more objectively than that if the truth will ever be found.

Job 12:13, "With [God] are wisdom and strength, He has counsel and understanding."

I think it is also foolish to not chose a direction of focus. The quote comes to mind: "If you stand for nothing you'll fall for anything." Perhaps in the same way, if I'm not about anything specific, I'm about nothing significant.

Proverbs 2:1-6, " My son, if you receive my words,

And treasure my commands within you,
So that you incline your ear to wisdom,
And apply your heart to understanding;
Yes, if you cry out for discernment,
And lift up your voice for understanding,
If you seek her as silver,
And search for her as for hidden treasures;
Then you will understand the fear of the LORD,
And find the knowledge of God.
For the LORD gives wisdom;
From His mouth come knowledge and understanding;"

I'm not sure I agree with this...

2011-02-20T19:00:00.001-07:00

... but if anyone has issues with an evil villian, just give me a call and well see what happens.

Your results:
You are Green Lantern

Green Lantern		65%
Robin		62%
Superman		60%
Spider-Man		60%
Hulk		60%
The Flash		55%
Iron Man		40%
Wonder Woman		35%
Batman		30%
Supergirl		30%
Catwoman		30%

Hot-headed. You have strong
will power and a good imagination.

Click here to take the Superhero Personality Quiz

DMZ 2 - Confusious say, "Man who stand on toilet..."

2011-01-29T22:07:00.000-07:00

This is a continuation of the DMZ tour that I took at the beginning of January. Previously I had chronicled the railroad station built near the DMZ in anticipation of future peaceful reunification. The last stop before leaving the station was the bathroom. I expected nothing unusual, but since it is Korean, frankly, I should have known better.

Decoratively framed above each urinal were sayings of wisdom translated into Korean and English (at least, I think so - I'm 70% sure about one of the languages, anyway). I was so impressed by the one that I had to ponder that I waited for an opportunity to photograph them all. There's a lot of truth in them (I should say, in some of them; some I'm still trying to figure out). So, I thought I would expound on what I pull from them - for what it's worth.

I thought this first one especially pertinent considering where I was standing at the point (no, not the bathroom; the DMZ). I thought about the monetary cost incurred because of the anger of the North Korean governemnt. N. Korea probably wouldn't see it that way, but I'm not them. In addition to the financial burden, there has also been an even greater cost - human lives. Sadly, this number will probably never bee known. Even at this moment, people are likely dieing a N. Korean jail or from starvation or lack of medical treatment because of the management of the communist government. The repeated news reports of violence between the North and South remind us that lives are still taken in combat here - the two nations are techincally still at war.

The emotional or spiritual anger is extremely costly, as well. I believe (my unexpert opinion based on what I see and have experienced myself) that anger leads to serious anxiety and stress. The "angry people" that I know are constantly fighting an uphill battle. The anger poisons every relationship that they are in. Additionally, the constant strain required to maintain that kind of self-righteousness is really more than we were designed to handle. Ultimately, the true cost of clinging to the luxury of anger which survives due to unforgiveness is that of the relationship itself - an extremely sad, but completely avoidable consequence.

Ultimately, I should ask what God's word has to say about it. God has much to say about anger (Ex. 20:13; Matt. 5:21-24; Eph. 4:30-32; Rom. 1:28-31; Col. 3:8; James 1:19-25; Gal. 5:19-21) and that rarely is our (human) anger ever justified (Rom. 12:19; Eph. 4:26; James 1:19-25). I know of some that say it is never justified in people. Others claim a measure of "righteous anger" is acceptable. I don't have a lot of sureness on that question, but I'll say that if anger is o.k. then it's very rare.

This also leads to the deeper question, how much do we consider our vices (nice way to say pet-sins) a luxury? Something to be accepted, even cherished as our own, private possession? Have we worked so desperately to "do well" in the other areas of life that we feel authorized (or that we deserve) to justify in our own minds the acceptance or deserved toleration of other Thall-shall-nots? Do we truly know that sin is stronger than our own wills and anything we allow to live with us will, without exception, become our master? (Gal 5:6,7)

What costly luxuries are we holding to? What price are we paying even now to maintain them?

I know Karate (and, like, two other Japanese words).

2011-01-27T06:22:00.010-07:00

One of the highlights of my year in Korea was leaving Korea for a month to be with my family!

We were all over the states during that month. Some highlights:

1. San Diego for all you can eat food at Sea World.

2. Big Bear, CA for the first father/sons fishing date.

3. San Onofre, CA for four days with the beach for a front lawn.
4. San Antonio for two days without the children (that's a first after 11 years of marriage).

5. Tucson for everything else.

6. Celebration of 11 years of marriage!

Unfortunately, I don't have pictures of that trip with me. What I do have is the culmination of the impressive progess of Christian's and Nori's ju jitsu training (most of which I wasn't there for) - the Rendori. There were three dojos represented for peoples ages 4 to 20. It was basically three hours of intense flips, throws, pins, and cheering.

I've been most impressed with Nori and Christian because they have dabbled in a lot of things, but have never stuck with many of them. Just spending a few nights watching them practice and spar made it clear that they were very good at this and it was really impacting their life in good ways. I'd like to take some credit for their "wrastling" skillz, but since Christian has me tapping out when we wrestle I think I added little to it.

Here are the highlights. Nori and Christian are both in white gis.

DMZ #1 - I Got a Ticket to Nowhere

2011-01-19T22:09:00.000-07:00

I visited the Demilitarized Zone early in January with four others from the Haven. It was an amazing experience that I'll have to chop up because there's much to be said. The overall jist is that the North Korean government is actively attempting to take over the South. It's strange to see people of the same nation in a position of such extreme and determined war. America had it's civil war, but they fought and it was done.

The Republic of Korea (South) has done several things in hopes of unification under a free and democratic government. They built a reunification complex for families in the North to visit the families in the South. However, no families are allowed out of N. Korea because they might try to defect. (more on that later) Economic deals have been made for RoK businessmen to build factories in the North to provide income for the populous. Of course, the pay goes to the government prior to "dispersal."

The RoK also built a full-size railroad and station with plans to operate completely through North Korea into China and Russia. The station is manned daily, heated, and maintained for the time when the war will end. There is also a display of railroad ties that the Korean President and President W. Bush signed at the station's dedication.

"May this railroad unite Korean families." - George W. Bush

I was able to take the opportunity to shake the big guy's hand.

And I thank God for protection. I slipped in the snow. The train stopped in time.

Independance Day, 2010

2011-01-17T02:15:00.000-07:00

The time between Memorial Day and Independance Day was pretty uneventful, but here is the jist.

Sometime around the end of May an evangelist came from the states that had written a book outlining a program for memorizing Scripture. I found this to be a great answer to prayer for me because I had began memorizing about a year prior with some success. I had put to memory all of Ephesians, chapter 2 when I found out I was deploying/PCSing to Korea because of the content concerning the peace and identity that we have through the gospel of Christ. I thought that would be valuable during the separation.

Anyway, the program was very methodical and simple. I started putting it to use right away and it has been one of the biggest blessings in my entire life. Even though I've memorized a lot of verses since then and am now nearing the end of putting all of 1 Peter to memory, that is really just a side note. The thrust of it is that of the sure doctrinal foundation that God has built me upon through it. I've always known a Christian should be able to comply with 1 Peter 3:15 "but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meakness and fear." I'm thankful for this experience because I believe I am much nearer to that charge.

To me, this is another example of the truth that God works in each of our lives in a way that provides for a continuous and consistent growth toward Christ-likeness and that He does so for the specific time and place that we are each experiencing.

Beyond that, during May, June and July I was preparing for the mid-tour with my family and doing college courses. I had made a plan to complete a lot of my school work and that plan worked out, but God had better plans for me that I submitted to for the remainder of the year. The only trip that I took during those months was on the 4th of July with the Haveners.

I can't even tell you the name of the area we went to but it was a great time. We drove all the way down the seawall and went to a beach at the end of it. The afternoon was full of good food, activities, and a hike.

No 4th of July is complete without fried chicken so Popeye's took care of that for us! When we proceeded to the beach. We organized a kickball game which is tough in the sand. It became even harder to round second base with the infield covered in jellyfish. In the end, we had a good time and lost no soccerballs to the sea.

Afterward, we hiked around the cliffs of the shore. I've loved the land of Korea since I flew over it back in February.

And, of course, there was some curousing...

Here's a few more classic pics of Korea, which I have grown to appreciate so much more now that I've been here for so long.

I think the key to really enjoying the time here is to embrace the culture.

This is random, but beautiful.

Lost in Translation... and Gunsan

2011-01-09T05:12:00.000-07:00

At one point in time, everyone in the world spoke the same language. Sweet! I'm sure this made a lot of things easier. Unfortunately, God saw that it made man's most natural act too effective - sinful pride and arrogance (You can read the history of this here.) - and now here we are with a plethora of languages. I for one have a really hard time learning other languages, but I've met people that were naturally talented with learning the speak another language. I would say those people could make a lot of money helping to translate for those that aren't so good at it.

During our time in Japan we often would go to the mall and see the work of those that didn't translate so well on the t-shirts of the Japanese people. I doubt Candi and I were successful in not letting people know we weren't laughing at them, ... just their clothing choice. Three of most memorable ones were:

"The fields are alive with raped flowers."

"Diamonds are my favorite partner."

"F#%@ You."

Korea has it's share of frustrated or mis- translations. While out on the town one night a group of us stumbled upon a shopping district that we hadn't seen before. It proved an interesting night, to say the least. Behold...

Is this true?

"Hey good lookin', what'cha got cookin'?"

Words can't describe what theses word describe.

What about me?

Further research in this area can be done at Engrish.com.

Playin' Catch Up

2011-01-06T13:55:00.000-07:00

I thought I would spend the remainder of my time in Korea remembering a lot of the things I did here. I suppose it would have been helpful to share this as they happened, but...

On Memorial Day weekend a group of us from the Haven Baptist church went to Everland, the second happiest place on earth. It was a great day and the park had some interesting things to see and do.

This is one of the fastest wood rollercoasters around - 120 mph. Surprising it wasn't very rough. To top it off we went on a Monday and the park was empty. It took us less time to get to back on the ride than the ride took itself. The area of the park that the rollercoaster was in had a Scandinavian theme. It took time for my brain to adjust to seeing Koreans in lederhosen - some stereotypes are hard to break.

There were moments that made me miss my boys...

There were moments that made me miss my girl...

All in all, good times with good friends...

... at least, as good as it can get without my best friend.

The Power of Prayer

2010-03-25T04:49:00.000-07:00

In the last year or so, Candi and I have asked several things of God. We hoped to be stationed in South Dakota to be near family - he said "No." We prayed that I would be stationed anywhere but Korea (because Candi and the kids could not come with) - he said "No." I've prayed (for the last two years) that a friend's coworker would be healed of cancer and turn to Jesus as savior - "No." and "No." We prayed for our friend's newborn to live despite difficult circumstances. This one seemed like a no brainer for God, but he said "No."

Why in the world do we keep praying? There's seemingly no stopping the disappointments. Do I continue to pray because the "Yes" responses outnumber the "No"? It seems "good" things happen regardless of whether we pray or not.

I have plenty of reasons for continuing to pray daily, bringing things to God that are important to me and to others. The biggest cause for continued prayer is corrected spiritual vision. We usually suffer from myopia (near-sightedness). We see the bad and the good, and call the event bad or good. Then we move on. However, God says that if we hang around long enough we'll see Him use the bad to bring good in the end. For example, Candi and I are hanging in there to see what God does after this Korea event is over.

I say "corrected" vision, because if we're all honest our vision is messed up. God has to fix it and we have to be patient enough for Him to make us some good glasses. As I get more comfortable wearing them, I keep them on more often and so I have better "vision" more often.

You could also say that we need to have a "bigger picture" on life, but that just doesn't sound quite right.

I wonder if the glasses that I have will be replaced with even better ones down the road.

I wonder if those new glasses are covered under the new Health Care bill.

We've Got to See the Smaller Picture

2010-03-17T03:43:00.001-07:00

I often hear, "You've got to see the Bigger Picture."

We're encouraged to have a Big Picture when dealing with investing, when wondering why we have to file TPS reports, when completing household chores, or trying to solve Health Care problems. We everyday citizens are told we don't understand the complexity of situations in Washington, so we can't form good opinions on issues - alas, we have no Big Picture.

I'd like to throw a thought out about all of this. I believe our pursuit of the Big Picture is killing us.

Television, radio, and the internet can give us a very Big Picture. I can know of heartache and suffering, and "evils" done, by literally people all over the world. And, I don't know about you, but I react to it all with outrage, frustration, or despair. And I think something should be done about it all.

But what do I do about it? What can I do about it? Most of the time, the answer is "very little" to both questions. So, what good is my Big Picture doing me?

All the while, other questions - full of more possibilities - go unnoticed. What do I do about the suffering in my neighborhood? What can I be doing about heartache in my own house - if I notice it at all? What should I be doing about the evil in me? I can do very much about these, but first I need a Smaller Picture - to see what's going on around and in me.

Unfortunately (or not), I don't think we can have both. I believe the picture we have grows from our priorities. I've found if I love the goings on of the world, my picture will be Big; my time will be spent making it Big. And I've found that if I love my family, love God, and love those I actually interact with daily, I will want a small picture; my time will be spent making it Small.

Which picture do you want?

"Wisdom is in the sight of him who has understanding,

But the eyes of a fool are on the ends of the earth."
Proverbs 17:24

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding."
Proverbs 9:10

I'll give you this. There is one Guy that does well with the Big Picture.

The 12th Day of Mustache March, in the Year of Our Lord 2010

2010-03-12T05:11:00.001-07:00

It's been a tough nine days and several others have fallen by the wayside, succumbing to the desire to "quench the moustache's fire". I've grown an odd attachment to it - haven't come up with a name yet. Can you help me out Eskue?

Me and my moustache hangin' out.

Adios Amigo

2010-03-11T02:28:00.000-07:00

In the news is a suspended tower controller from Kennedy Airport. He brought his kids to work with him, one each of two days and let them issue take-off and frequency switch instructions. He and the supervisor at the time are now suspended. Should they be? I don't know the answer to that, but frankly I'm impressed with his son. He sounded as confident as any controller I've ever heard. The pilots obviously didn't sound upset. What do you think?

You can read the story and listen to the transmissions here.

It's Just You and Me, Pal

2010-03-06T17:15:00.000-07:00

We will fight. You will lose. My Kung Fu is good.

Three Little Monkeys Jumping...

2010-03-05T17:37:00.002-07:00

I really enjoy putting up the pictures that Nori takes when we don't know she has the camera. Usually it has been some very cute dog pictures or a completely laid out Polly Pocket scene. I have no recollection of this event. Surprises are great. I'm just glad there's no sign of Wyatt here.

The 3rd Day of Mustache March, in the Year of Our Lord 2010

2010-03-04T00:33:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. That time when men can stop fighting their upper lip and just let nature take its course.

Es Possible?

2010-03-03T03:48:00.000-07:00

My current location of Gunsan City, South Korea has about 100,000 people in it, I believe. That's quite a bit different that when my friend was station here in 1957. And the city officials are apparently doing a great job of expanding and bringing in business.

One of the first things I saw (after the first week of rain, I mean) from the tower was a gray line on the sea's horizon. It was explained to me that the city built a 20 mile seawall (one of the largest in the world) and then started pumping out the trapped seawater. Proposals for the future land mass have ranged from farmland to industrial, tourist, and environmental development to another airport (which Gunsan would need in order to attract big business and tourism).

Unfortunately, the base officials have rejected a request to fly international flights into Kunsan Air Base due to security risks. But even if Gunsan managed to build another airport within the "reclaimed" sea-land it would seriously impact the training and mission here. It will be interesting to see how it all plays out.

Meanwhile, the beach just outside the base fence line grows bigger.

You can see the our airfield south east of the largest resevoir in the top half of the picture.

Some more information can be found here and here.

There's More to Korea Than the Base

2010-03-01T05:51:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally left the base last Saturday. We went to the famed "Beef on a Leaf." Honestly, it deserves its fame. We also went to the local superstore. It was three floors of shopping silliness. As one of my fellow adventurers explained, Lottemart (pronounced "lot-A-mart") is like Target (vs. Walmart which would be called E Mart here). So that explains the upper class merchandise below.

Aaaaah, massage chairs. Now they massage your feet, too!

Daniel-son, when crane technique done right, no can defend.

Sumo Schplumo

2010-02-02T22:37:00.004-07:00

My family has always been very creative with gifts. This year was no exception. I got an awesome deck of card - awesome because my picture is on every card. I also got a halogen-light head lamp which will blind me (or those around me) if I'm not careful. I think the most anticipated present (because of it's laugh-ability) is a sumo costume. Thank you Lisa and anyone else that provided input on this one.

The kids loved this.

A Fine Farewell

2010-01-30T20:27:00.007-07:00

Simply put, we had a crowd of people over today for a goodbye (and kind of birthday party - there were lots of treats on hand). Thank you Hart family, Aunt Judy, Allerton family, Biel family, Dusek Family (missed you, Michelle), and Ross family. To make things simpler Candi decided on hot dogs and side dishes. To make things more complicated I decided to make "gourmet" hot dogs. We had tangy, Southwest, Seattle-style, the Works, and cheesy dogs.

How could I have forgotten to grill the onions!

We had a great time! Once again, I thank the Lord for our trampoline. I couldn't have asked for a better time of family and friends before I leave. Everything that was important to me was there today (except for those unable to come) - thank you all.

A Fine Idea part 3

2010-01-25T06:51:00.005-07:00

Wyatt and I went out last Thursday. When asked what he wanted to do he said Walmart (to look at toys), Target (same pursuit), Walmart again (you guessed it) and Dunkin Doughnuts. Candi suggested the Children's Museum downtown and Wyatt liked it. We spent a couple hours there and then proceeded with a miniature version of his original plan.
That's Storm Shadow at Toys-R-Us. What are the chances?

A Fine Idea pt 2

2010-01-21T09:05:00.002-07:00

Christian chose Rocks-n-Ropes and dinner at the Texas Roadhouse. I'm always amazed at Christian's athleticism (knowing his dad's physical prowess ;-) ) and rock climbing to him is pretty natural. We of course took the truck and went to eat meat at the Texas Roadhouse. Sweet day.

Quote of the Day

2010-01-20T08:43:00.004-07:00

Who can say that they are master of the their, and not the other way around? I think everyone wishes they had more time available. I identify with fathers that want to do great work at their professions, spend time with their children, be a great husband and friend to their wives, and serve God where He directs.

I feel my anxiety level rise just writing that list. I started a book recently that has really helped me become a better user of "my" time called Redeeming the Time written by Steven Maxwell. This is one passage on what Steve has to say about our activities.

"The Lord could have built a boat for Noah prior to the flood as opposed to it taking Noah up to a hundred years to build it. When He sent the children of Israel into Canaan, He could have wiped out the nations ahead of them. He didn't. When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, He first asked some men to remove the stone, but He could have spoken a word and had it go flying off into the air. The Lord doesn't need our efforts. Nonetheless, He required them. As James 2:26 says, "... faith without works is dead..."

A Fine Idea

2010-01-19T23:06:00.004-07:00

The kids came up with a great idea about a month ago. With my pending departure, they decided that I would spend one day with each of the kids doing whatever they wanted, one day with Candi, and then on the fifth day we would go to Mt. Lemmon and stay in a cabin for the night.

Today was day 1 with Nori. We went to the new pottery place called Color Me Mine at the Park Place Mall. We had a really great time picking out the right piece, deciding on colors, and discussing the ice cream that would be eaten afterward, for the greater good.

Here are the pre-kiln pics.

I'm not sure about the cabin thing...

More From the Past... This is Fun

2010-01-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

Christian, if you ever read this please know that I mean this in the best way possible. You were fat.

By Popular Demand

2010-01-17T19:25:00.004-07:00

Here's the rest... these are from Sep 2002.

And Happy Birthday, Dad! I didn't get you a card, but I did ask the Vikings to beat my Cowboys. Love you!

In Honor of Throwback

2010-01-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

We've changed some, but Mom's photo concepts haven't apparently.

It's in the Blood

2010-01-13T13:41:00.005-07:00

As most of you know, late last year, I was supposed to take a trip to Iraq - Baghdad International Airport to be exact. At first I was o.k. to be gone for six months because of the learning opportunity it would provide (well, I was looking for the good in it anyway). Candi took the prep time to relive the glory days...

Held Hostage

2009-10-28T09:32:00.005-07:00

There's never a dull moment with kids around. Take for instance when I go to download the digital camera and realize that at some point in time Nori has gotten a hold of it and snaps some doozies. I actually have a folder just for her special shots.

In all seriousness, I like it when she gets the camera, because she grabs memories that we either wouldn't see or wouldn't have time to seize. Behold.

Moving Right Along

2009-10-27T20:27:00.004-07:00

Here are some pictures of Christian workbench project. I have to be completely honest (not that I was lying or anything). The table saw made the tenons much easier to make.

We're about half way done with the tenon-and-mortise joints. Then, we just have to gluing it all together and attach the top. Not bad for his first.

The Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

This is from the Pumpkin Patch in Wilcox. The weather was beautiful, the company was great!

Wax On, Wax Off

2009-10-25T08:32:00.004-07:00

Christian has been in Jiu Jistu for about two months. Last Tuesday, he performed his initial test which included three different "I can fall without getting hurt" techniques, a couple wrist-grab escape moves, the perfect push-up, and a couple other moves. He's still a white belt, but he officially belongs to the Kodenkan Yudanshakai dojo.

What Do You Hope For?

2009-10-19T16:10:00.004-07:00

In an effort to teach our children how to handle money, about a year ago we started paying them for their "jobs." They each do a chore pack every morning and we pay them for their performance during school, which includes their "grade" for each class and their behavior(attitude, willingness to learn, etc.).

Nori and Christian get paid when we get paid and so they know paydays very well. God recently used that fact to encourage me. As I said, both of the kids are aware of when payday is. They know not to ask to be paid until the 1st or 15th. However, they've also seen that those days are very busy because of the things that have to be done as a result of us getting paid (groceries, bills, errands) so occasionally they remind me on the 16th that they haven't been paid yet. I let them know that I haven't forgotten about it.

They always take that answer and wait patiently for it. They know that I've promised them something and that I have to do somethings before they can be paid. They don't know the exact moment dollars will be in their hands, but they trust that I'll deliver as promised. They live with a sure expectancy.

We should do the same with God. He has clearly told us that we are not citizens of this world, that we are His children and heirs with Jesus, and that He is coming back for us (or taking us home at death). We have to maintain our faith and trust that God will deliver! He's able to come through on His promise! How should that effect our daily lives? I'm sure it should effect us in several ways - all of which are good. I pray that we will all remember that truth and remember what our identity is.

"And even we Christian, although we have the Holy Spirit w/in us as a foretaste of future glory, also groan to be release from pain and suffering. We, too, wait anxiously for that day when God will give us our full rights as his children, including the new bodies he has promised us. Now that we are saved, we eagerly look forward to this freedom. For if you already have something, you don't need to hope for it. But if we look forward to something we don't have yet, we must wait patiently and confidently." (Romans 8:23-25)

The Wood Man and others

2009-10-14T07:38:00.004-07:00

I've recently been posting different small business websites up because I believe in capitalism and the American dream (you can see here for what I believe that is). Consequently, I'm putting up another website for anyone that might want or need Tim Becker's fine wood crafting services.
I'm also adding the website for other small businesses owned by friends and acquaintances that's we've used and that we can attest to their great quality.

Tim Becker
Yestertime Wood Works - might not be up yet.

Don Ross
Designs in Steel

The 5 Jalapenos - of course!

We also have used Amenity Construction, who do an awesome job, but do not have a website. Jason, the owner, put the wall up in our (now) bedroom and did a fantastic job. Here's his contact info:
Amenity Construction, LLC
(520) 631-2615
PO Box 16182
Tucson, AZ 85732

Anasi Tile and Flooring
No website either (that I could find) but they can be reached at:
1011 N Pantano Rd
Tucson, AZ 85710
520-750-8021

New and Improved

2009-10-07T18:00:00.000-07:00

The company my dad has co-founded is moving forward. The 5 Jalapenos has widened it's clothing line, sponsored a race car, and opened their first retail location. Pretty exciting stuff. Check it out here.

It turns out it was a prank call...

2009-10-06T21:36:00.003-07:00

So I haven't put any pictures up of the camping trip because I didn't take any. In fact, any pictures we would have taken probably would have had some scowls in them anyway.

I got to the mountain just after sunset, was served some scrumptious hot dogs, root beer, and marshmallows, and sat around the fire telling and hearing jokes and scary stories (that were made up on the spot pretty much).

We hit the sack around 9 and woke at midnight to rain. After 2 hours of heavy rain the girls tent was washed out. Travis and I re-arranged the vehicles so 3 girls could sleep in one car and Nori went into our tent. Another two hours of rain...

We woke to soaked wood, soaked tents, soaked shoes, and soaked chairs (from our van, longer story than belongs here).

But then Christi's cheerfulness brought the sun out and we gradually got everything loaded. I threw on three extra layers of clothes and road the motorcycle down.

All was not bad, though. There were some great jokes told. The root beer was outstanding. The kids had about 16 hours on Friday to play in an awesome camp site (good on the Harts for picking that one). Everyone was safe. We lived to learn to pack better for the next trip!

Nature Calls

2009-10-02T08:58:00.002-07:00

We're heading up to Mt. Bigelow today in the Catalina Mountain range for an overnight camping trip with the Harts. It was going to be several families, but sadly a lot of people were busy or not feeling well. I'll get some pics up when we get back.

Off subject, I got this today from The Other Secret Agent. I thought it was a sharp reminder that we can't borrow billions of dollars too prop up a straw-man economy and not expect serious impacts.

Health Care Questions

2009-09-20T21:20:00.001-07:00

I went through most of the July health care bill. The most interesting thing to me was how our government intends to irresponsibly pay for the new health care system.

In all, the bill will set up at least 8 trust funds to pay for the program totaling $2,352,000,000. However, I don't think that amount is the irresponsible part. There are successful companies in the world that have outgoing numbers in that range (of course, they have more than that coming in, too). The thing that says, "What kind of 9 year old mentality is spending our tax dollars?!!!" is this phrase which follows the establishment of each trust fund: "There are hereby appropriated out of any moneys in the Treasury not otherwise appropriated..."

What?!

Anyone try that with your budget?

"Honey, want to buy a new car?" "Oh, yeah! Will it fit into our budget?" "Oh, I'll bet so. We'll just take whatever we have left over at the end of the payday and put that toward the car payment."
I think wisdom here says that if we have to do unwise things to accomplish something, it's probably not a wise goal to reach for. Basically, these are the things debt is made of - I've already given my thoughts on that here.

Mole hill out of a Mountain

2009-09-20T20:54:00.002-07:00

Last year I put this post up about some work I was doing on our bathroom. My wife knows me very well - we have been married for over 10 years now. She told me she didn't want it to take too long, she didn't want me to go too overboard, and she didn't want to be stuck with one bathroom for a long time. Well, honestly, we only went with one bathroom for a short week or so.

However, November 19th will be one year and I'm trying hard to beat that date! I'm really close now thanks to the help of a plethora of friends. Standby for pictures...

Hold on. The suspense is killing me, too!

Somethings wrong with the counter!

2009-09-17T22:16:00.001-07:00

I just noticed I've had over 11,000 hits on my blog since August. Either that thing is broken, or the big brother is watching me for bad-mouthing the president. I know it's not because my thoughts are that interesting to read.

It wasn't really a lie... really.

2009-09-17T21:51:00.003-07:00

I read an article on Fox News.com today that shed more light on something President Obama used in the post-break, Health care-reform, motivational speech. At one point, he was giving examples of the atrocities of our current health care and health insurance systems. He ran a list of several people that had their insurance removed at a critical time or that were denied coverage for something important; all the examples truly seemed like atrocities.

However, because of my presuppositions about President Obama I told myself that while his points and examples were extremely convincing I should just wait and see how things unfold.

Here's the unfolding:

WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama, seeking to make a case for health-insurance regulation, told a poignant story to a joint session of Congress last week. An Illinois man getting chemotherapy was dropped from his insurance plan when his insurer discovered an unreported gallstone the patient hadn't known about.

"They delayed his treatment, and he died because of it," the president said in the nationally televised address.

In fact, the man, Otto S. Raddatz, didn't die because the insurance company rescinded his coverage once he became ill, an act known as recission. The efforts of his sister and the office of Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan got Raddatz's policy reinstated within three weeks of his April 2005 rescission and secured a life-extending stem-cell transplant for him. Raddatz died this year, nearly four years after the insurance showdown.

I know that all politicians spin in their favor, which is exactly why I'm a Republican. The less politicians are in control of, the better. I think we are all much better at running and dealing with our lives ourselves.

What can we learn from this?
1. The government can take some steps to ensure people aren't wronged. In this case, the government did their appropriate part.
2. Clearly, "taking steps" should mean creating reasonable boundaries to ensure righteous business practices. Again, that was done is the above case. If the gov wants to do a little more, that could be a good thing, possibly. Bring that to the congress and the American people will probably support it.
2. "Taking steps" should not mean mandating insurance, forcing insurance on people, or providing it for free.

Coming out in the wash

2009-09-07T19:04:00.001-07:00

Here are some things that went wrong during our vacation to the land of 10,000 lakes:
1. woke up an hour and a half later than we should have to make our plane to Minnesota
2. there weren't any Harley's available to rent for anniversary ride
3. we lost Nori's DS
4. we lost Candi's wallet
5. we lost Dale's sunglasses and sweatshirt
6. the pool was in bad shape the Friday before the Sunday Wing-a-Ding

But...we made our plane, two bikes became available and the ride was awesome, we found the DS and the wallet, and the pool was great the day of the party (I wish I had pics of the three performing amigos!)

I ended up finding my sun glasses in the Target "glasses" section and I have plenty of other sweatshirts. All in all, it was a great experience for our kids to see that patience, peace and faith are much better than stressing and striving (not to mention that it was good for God to teach Candi and I that, too).

By the way, the list of things that were great about our vacation is too large to write here. I miss and love you, my family.

SNCO Induction Ceremony

2009-08-22T08:38:00.004-07:00

These are pictures from the Senior Non-commissioned Officer Induction ceremony. Thank you again to everyone that prayed for me before my promotion testing. I wouldn't have made it without Candi's support while studying.

And thank you, Emily, for watching the young Sickels' so that we could have this date.

Happiest Place on Earth!!!

2009-08-19T20:08:00.005-07:00

I suppose I could be accused of selling out (again?), and this time to the megacorp' Disney, but clearly it was like the happiest place on earth. Observe.

And everywhere is better with monkeys:

Jedi Training Video #3

2009-08-18T10:26:00.002-07:00

Here's part 2... you'll have to listen closely to hear what the Jedi Master says. It's hilarious!

Jedi Training #2

2009-08-18T07:56:00.003-07:00

This is part one of the funniest video. It was too big to upload all at once so I split the video in half.

Jedi Trainig #1

2009-08-17T12:00:00.003-07:00

Jedi Master's Noria, Chris'tian Ess, and Wy Att

2009-08-17T11:05:00.005-07:00

Behold, the hope of the Rebellion's next generation:

Vacation pics - Day 2

2009-08-15T15:00:00.006-07:00

This was Disney Day 1. We met Travis and Kristi +4 and Don and Patty +1 at the gate and on we went to fun! It was a great time for sure. I was thankful for the crash course that Wendy had given four years prior. It really helped know how to navigate.

I'm so close!

2009-08-13T10:20:00.003-07:00

I have just a little under 3300 days until I retire. Oooh, it's so close!

But, what does that mean?

I keep hearing that people can't wait to retire and stop working. They plan their finances so they can afford to stop working and maintain their current lifestyle (or have it improve, even). I can't say that I've ever seen the words "play" or "entertainment" used any positive way in the Bible. I've heard it said that fun is Satan's counterfeit for the joy that God wants for us. Makes sense to me.

Is that realistic? Does God ask us to work diligently for a time and then coast until the day we find out how He thinks we did?

I guess I don't think so, but then I'm not really experienced in "retirement life." I could very easily be wrong. I guess I just see retirement as a close to one part of the job that God has given me and an opening to the next. What say you?

Vacation Pics - Day 1

2009-08-12T20:40:00.008-07:00

So, these are some of the pictures from the first day in California. Travis and Kristi, our friends, had been staying at Huntington beach for the whole week. We met them there at 0-7-early on Sunday and hung at the beach from almost 12 hours. Whew.

The last one of Wyatt is his Jedi mind trick. Be careful even with the picture or you'll be under his control.

Coming Soon...

2009-08-09T14:26:00.002-07:00

We've been back from California for three days now and we're caught to the rest of the real world. I'll have some pictures up of what we did soon.

Total Sell Out

2009-08-08T15:41:00.005-07:00

My dad partnered a new company last month. You can see the web site here. The blue and white shirts are limited edition 1st issue shirts.

So check it out. I'm hoping to get my shirt soon - before they run out. I talked to him today and new products will be online soon!

I know a guy

2009-07-27T19:59:00.006-07:00

If you take a gander at "websites of choice" section, you'll see California John. John has been a great friend of my since my birth in the AF. I was training to be an F16 mechanic, he was to be an F15 mechanic (a.k.a crew chief). Though the AF tried hard to keep him in, he was determined to follow his passions. His passions led him to Full Sail college in Florida. It's one of the best schools in the country for all things film and media. He completed that and made his trek to California.

Since there he has done photography and film for several different productions. Here is one example of his work. It's for Car-buffs. He showed me the graphics and video last year when we were on vacation. While the original idea was pitched for a TV series, it ended up being a website/blog instead. (The graphics are awesome, though, John!) He's currently writing his first feature film and I'm anxious to see the finished product.

We're pumped that we'll see him again next week.

Nice background pic, John!

Falkor the Luck Dragon

2009-07-19T12:08:00.005-07:00

Falkor

Frankie

maybe...

Dreams change? In this case to nightmares

2009-07-17T08:34:00.005-07:00

I heard our President speaking yesterday to the NAACP. During his speech, he said his goal was for every American to be given the opportunity to have the American dream. He defined the American dream as having affordable health care, being provided affordable college, and a job, among other things. Note the word "provided."

The American dream isn't that everyone has two cars plus one "fun car", owns a 2000 square foot house, makes $60+ a year, earns a Bachelor's degree, has a 40" (or bigger) plat panel HDTV, has a brand new bedroom and living room set, takes extravagant vacations each year and provides a cell phone for everyone in the family over the age of 10.

A dream like that is called Materialism. And that ain't a dream, it's voluntary slavery.
And to quote John Foreman "That ain't my American dream."

So, seriously, how do you define the American dream?
Can you get that dream without borrowing money?
Is your American dream based on happiness derived from amassing stuff for yourself or your children?

For a laugh

2009-07-17T08:29:00.002-07:00

I got this from my mom, who got it from someone else. I love these.

Dangling Participles
- The burglar was about 30 years old, white, 5' 10," with wavy hair weighing about 150 pounds. - The family lawyer will read the will tomorrow at the residence of Mr. Hannon, who died June 19 to accommodate his relatives.
- Mrs. Shirley Baxter, who went deer hunting with her husband, is very proud that she was able to shoot a fine buck as well as her husband.
- Organ donations from the living reached a record high last year, outnumbering donors who are dead for the first time.
- The dog was hungry and made the mistake of nipping a 2-year-old that was trying to force feed it in his ear.
- We spent most of our time sitting on the back porch watching the cows playing Scrabble and reading.
- Hunting can also be dangerous, as in the case of pygmies hunting elephants armed only with spears.

Couldn't hold this one back.

2009-07-15T06:13:00.003-07:00

I've been keeping my political opinions to myself lately (except around my bride). I think constant complaints about certain heads of state being morons (Biblical term is "fool") annoy others. I try not to annoy others.

A good friend just put this post up. Thank you FPF for the laugh. No one pours sarcasm on a plate of tom-foolery like you!

But FPF's thoughts provoked me to share some of my own on recent research. I disagree a little, though. We'll probably end up with some Chinese vehicle crammed down our throat since we owe them $700,000,000,000. I have to count the zeros, too. It's a big number.

I read somewhere that if one owes money to another, the borrower becomes servant of the lender. Take a second to consider that word - servant. In a country that is familiar with slavery, picturing servitude isn't difficult.

Well, congratulations We The People! We are now servants to a communist country that we've been openly opposing for almost eight decades.
1. Masters don't usually put up with dissension.
2. Masters usually have major influence on what servants do and where servants go.
3. Servants are in no position to call the shots.
4. Servants receive mercy when the Master feels like it.
5. Some Masters show no mercy (see history for indications about our current Masters).

The future should be interesting.

Bump, Set, Spike

2009-06-29T14:34:00.003-07:00

Somehow, over the last few years the idea that the earth is under massive climate change has become hugely accepted despite solid scientific evidence. Built on that theory is the assumption that humans are the primary cause and therefore we must makes changes to prevent and reverse it.

Because I am a thinking person I appreciate evidence when it comes to someone else spending my money. Facts have been provided to demonstrate global warming. However, a respectable interpretation of those facts has not occurred.

My primary argument against global warming is substantial evidence. The Naturalist approach to science says that what we observe now is all there is and that those things we observe now can be used to prove things in the past. While that appears to make sense, answer this questions: Say you look in your sink and see 10 ice cubes melting. Thirty minutes later you see there are only 5 left. Does that mean that factually there were 20 ice cubes in your sink one hour ago? Nope, because there are so many things that could have changed (i.e. variables). So when we see a change in average global climates over the last 50 or 100 years of 1 or 2 degrees, does that mean it has been occurring for the last 500 years steadily? Or does it mean that it will continue for the next 100 years?

More importantly, can we demonstrate completely that we are causing the change at all? I think this is a fair question because our president is leading a charge to change our entire economy based on these "facts." This point must be taken in perspective. The same scientists that are promoting global warming would, in a majority, also claim evolution and Big Bang theory are correct (I completely disagree, but again frame of reference is important here). If that is the case, can we really believe that humans, who have been alive for less than .01 percent of the earth's history, which included a superheated beginning, followed by a massive cooling period, and cycles of being in and out of ice ages, are the cause of a TWO DEGREE change in the average global temps?

With all that said, I'm amazed that something so weakly supported is now going to be the basis of billions of dollars of spending and hopeful economic growth. Talk about a house build on sinking sand.

VBS Finale

2009-06-16T21:22:00.005-07:00

The kids had their VBS finale show last Friday. It was pretty great. I have more video than pictures because the lighting wasn't that great. This is the first year that the kids really got into the motions and we all practiced them at home throughout the week. I love my kids.

Afterward, our church put on a carnival. Wyatt was obsessed with the dunk tank and dropped the hammer on three of the four dunkees that night. The kids also got a lot of energy out. Nori is becoming quite a good Samurai.

I've been missing some stuff

2009-06-15T21:19:00.003-07:00

I looked through our photos today and realize I missed a bunch of stuff. I'll be putting pictures up for a few days.

We did this family retreat at the Tanque Verde Guest Ranch the last weekend in May. It was so much fun and very relaxing! The horse back riding was only for an hour on Saturday, but it was sweet. Haven't done that since I was very young. We also learned a bunch of ways to handle my trip overseas later this year.

Once In a Lifetime, for me anyway

2009-06-07T07:25:00.003-07:00

Two weeks ago I was able to give a tour at the control tower to a friend. My friend's son was selected to be a Pilot for a day and given a grand tour around the base. He spent time on the flightline looking at the A10s and C130s, flying the A10 simulator, controlling aircraft in the air traffic control simulator, lunching with the Bigs at DM, and bunch of other things. Here's the story on it and a picture of one of the day's happenings.

It was an awesome experience to share what we do.

What's the difference 2?

2009-05-26T20:59:00.001-07:00

The second thought was that we (probably just our culture, but possibly others also) are leaning more and more toward eliminating the separation between animals and people. It is a logical conclusion since "science" is proclaiming we are merely an accidental change from some animal (which I challenge any and everyone to find proof of - it won't be found) .

Perhaps that is why we lean more toward therapy than punishment in our justice system. After all, we wouldn't hold a dog accountable for killing a bird. It's nature. However, a dog could be trained not to kill a bird. But that counter-argument dismisses the fact that no person lives strictly in the moment as animals do. We think ahead and we plan actions. We remember and we plan actions. We rationalize and we plan. There are times that we fail to use our human abilities and don't think ahead (which is almost always a bad, bad thing), but that is the point. We can choose to act like animals, but animals cannot choose to act like animals. To us alone did God give the decision to behave or to not behave.

Ben Stein Column

2009-05-25T20:52:00.003-07:00

...I didn't write any of the stuff below, but Ben challenges us all to consider our own decisions. The article was written in Jan 2005....

For many years Ben Stein has written a biweekly column called 'Monday Night At Morton's.' (Morton's is a famous chain of Steakhouses known to be frequented by movie stars and famous people from around the globe.) Now, Ben is terminating the column to move on to other things in his life. Reading his final column is worth a few minutes of your time.

Ben Stein's Last Column...

How Can Someone Who Lives in Insane Luxury Be a Star in Today's World?

As I begin to write this, I 'slug' it, as we writers say, which means I put a heading on top of the document to identify it. This heading is 'eonline FINAL,' and it gives me a shiver to write it. I have been doing this column for so long that I cannot even recall when I started. I loved writing this column so much for so long I came to believe it would never end.

It worked well for a long time, but gradually, my changing as a person and the world's change have overtaken it On a small scale, Morton's, while better than ever, no longer attracts as many stars as it used to. It still brings in the rich people in droves and definitely some stars. I saw Samuel L. Jackson there a few days ago, and we had a nice visit, and right before that, I saw and had a splendid talk with Warren Beatty in an elevator, in which we agreed that Splendor in the Grass was a super movie. But Morton's is not the star galaxy it once was, though it probably will be again.

Beyond that, a bigger change has happened..? I no longer think Hollywood stars are terribly important.. They are uniformly pleasant, friendly people, and they treat me better than I deserve to be treated. But a man or woman who makes a huge wage for memorizing lines and reciting them in front of a camera is no longer my idea of a shining star we should all look up to.

How can a man or woman who makes an eight-figure wage and lives in insane luxury really be a star in today's world, if by a 'star' we mean someone bright and powerful and attractive as a role model? Real stars are not riding around in the backs of limousines or in Porsches or getting trained in yoga or Pilates and eating only raw fruit while they have Vietnamese girls do their nails..

They can be interesting, nice people, but they are not heroes to me any longer. A real star is the soldier of the 4th Infantry Division who poked his head into a hole on a farm near Tikrit, Iraq. He could have been met by a bomb or a hail of AK-47 bullets. Instead, he faced an abject Saddam Hussein and the gratitude of all of the decent people of the world.

A real star is the U.S. soldier who was sent to disarm a bomb next to a road north of Baghdad. He approached it, and the bomb went off and killed him..

A real star, the kind who haunts my memory night and day, is the U.S. soldier in Baghdad who saw a little girl playing with a piece of unexploded ordnance on a street near where he was guarding a station. He pushed her aside and threw himself on it just as it exploded. He left a family desolate in California and a little girl alive in Baghdad.

The stars who deserve media attention are not the ones who have lavish weddings on TV but the ones who patrol the streets of Mosul even after two of their buddies were murdered and their bodies battered and stripped for the sin of trying to protect Iraqis from terrorists.

We put couples with incomes of $100 million a year on the covers of our magazines. The noncoms and officers who barely scrape by on military pay but stand on guard in Afghanistan and Iraq and on ships and in submarines and near the Arctic Circle are anonymous as they live and die.

I am no longer comfortable being a part of the system that has such poor values, and I do not want to perpetuate those values by pretending that who is eating at Morton's is a big subject.

There are plenty of other stars in the American firmament..the policemen and women who go off on patrol in South Central and have no idea if they will return alive; the orderlies and paramedics who bring in people who have been in terrible accidents and prepare them for surgery; the teachers and nurses who throw their whole spirits into caring for autistic children; the kind men and women who work in hospices and in cancer wards.

Think of each and every fireman who was running up the stairs at the World Trade Center as the towers began to collapse. Now you have my idea of a real hero.

I came to realize that life lived to help others is the only one that matters This is my highest and best use as a human. I can put it another way. Years ago, I realized I could never be as great an actor as Olivier or as good a comic as Steve Martin or Martin Mull or Fred Willard--or as good an economist as Samuelson or Friedman or as good a writer as Fitzgerald. Or even remotely close to any of them.

But, I could be a devoted father to my son, husband to my wife and, above all, a good son to the parents who had done so much for me. This came to be my main task in life. I did it moderately well with my son, pretty well with my wife and well indeed with my parents (with my sister's help). I cared for and paid attention to them in their declining years. I stayed with my father as he got sick, went into extremis and then into a coma and then entered immortality with my sister and me reading him the Psalms.

This was the only point at which my life touched the lives of the soldiers in Iraq or the firefighters in New York. I came to realize that life lived to help others is the only one that matters and that it is my duty, in return for the lavish life God has devolved upon me, to help others He has placed in my path. This is my highest and best use as a human.

Faith is not believing that God can. It is knowing that God will.

By Ben Stein

More Life in Sabino Canyon

2009-05-25T07:55:00.004-07:00

We had a ton (relatively speaking for a desert) of rain last week. It rained for almost 24 hours straight! Ha ha! So Saturday we took advantage of all that water running out of the mountains and went to the Sabina Canyon dam for some cooling off.

It was a pretty short trip because we were going to a wedding later that day. On the way back we saw some more wild life. God protected our young'ens this time. One of our group walked right over a rattler sleeping on some stone stairs. Sleeping snake pictures aren't as cute as sleeping child pictures.

Rock it out!

2009-05-22T07:15:00.002-07:00

I added this web page to the side bar. It's of videos by a local band called Ryanhood. The one with darker hair, Ryan Green led the music team at our previous Christian community until their tour took them back on the road. They are a great band! Look for them headlining very soon. The live videos are from this month when they opened for Kelly Clarkson's tour opening show. Ryan said that it was the biggest show they've ever done, but within the last two years they've won multiple "best band" competitions in AZ and out of state; so keep an ear out for them.

What's the difference?

2009-05-20T10:06:00.006-07:00

Frankie, our 3 year old male dog, likes to mark stuff. He's done it for all his 21 dog years. Last week he "took ownership" of something that got us pretty upset. After yelling at him and ushering him out of the house, I said, "Why are you so stupid sometimes?" Then God got me thinking.

It occurred to me that I was actually holding Frankie to a human standard. It also occurred to me that I was calling something that God created "stupid." So here are my thoughts on those two... thoughts, in case anyone is still interested.

First, what is the difference between people and animals? On a spiritual level, animals do not need a savior; people do. Christ did not die so animals could receive eternal life. If that was necessary, he would have come as an animal. No, he took on our form because we are in desperate need of rescuing.

So, what's the difference between people and animals? Obviously, we both have memories. We both have emotions (I know you non-animal owners out there will disagree, but that's because you are a non-animal owner.). We both make decisions. We both care for others of our kind (hopefully). We both have the same basic needs. The differences appear to be a matter of scale.

The abilities of human memory is different (in a greater way) than animals. The same goes with emotions and the way caring is displayed. I believe though, that the greatest difference is in the decision-making ability, in that I think that animals do not have free will. As Pavlov's dog demonstrated, animals make decisions based on the effects of the environment they have been, and presently are, in. While people also make some decisions by that same experience, we also have the ability to make decisions based on future events, the experiences of others, or by applying knowledge and wisdom to situations.

Consequently, it's silly for me to say that a dog is stupid because he acts in a way that God created him to act. I suppose in the reverse, it's silly for me to not say that peopel are stupid when we act like an animal, which is not the way God created us to act.

I'll put the other conclusion up later. It's too much for one post.

Erratic postings and "Yeah!!!!"

2009-05-14T19:33:00.002-07:00

It's been a while since I last wrote, but here's the news.

I was selected for promotion to Master Sergeant today. So now I can be referred to as Sergeant, Master Sergeant, Sir, or Master.

Whoopie!!!!

The Bible Says To Start Them Young

2009-04-28T22:27:00.002-07:00

Candi did a Bible study with Wyatt today. I asked him about it over dinner. See if you can guess their topic.

Dad: Wyatt, what did you learn today during your Bible study?
Wyatt: There was a devil!

Dad: A devil?! What else?
Wyatt: There was a tree with women.

Dad: Oh my! What did God say about the "woman tree"?
Wyatt: God said don't eat the tree.

Dad: What would happen if they ate the "woman tree"?
Wyatt: It's die time.

I think he was able to articulate all the theological aspects necessary for a three year old. I wonder what questions God would ask me about what I learned when studying my Bible today. I wonder if He would get as much pleasure from hearing my answers as I did from Wyatt's.

Little Trip

2009-04-11T18:23:00.004-07:00

We took a trip to Ft. Hauchucha last week. We intended to go to this sweet pool that's in the town of Sierra Vista (where the base is), but they did not have open swim hours during the week (it was a Monday/Tuesday). Oh well - next time. We instead hung out at the bike park next to the pool and then went to Kartchner Cavern. Kartchner is a living cavern with several large rooms that was discovered in the '70s, kept a secret and secretly transferred to state control (to protect the cavern from vandalizing), and then opened around 2002. It was really an amazing thing to see. They have one of the longest "soda straw" formations in the world - something like 29 feet.

The only draw back was having to listen to someone explain how the cave was formed millions of years ago. Even the kids rolled there eyes... I'm so proud! Hee hee.

Here's some pictures:

Oh, Christian fell into the prickly pears!

At the hotel -

There was definately something in the water! We had a real Alice in Wonderland problem.

Fit This Into the Model

2009-04-09T15:32:00.002-07:00

I just found out about this and looked for it on the internet. This discovery was made by an evolution-believing scientist. Models for how where the universe and life came from must be able to include all evidence. If it can't the model should be revised or discarded. Evolution should be discarded, frankly.

The Devastating Issue of Dinosaur Tissue ----- by Frank Sherwin, M.A.

A recent discovery in the field of paleontology has sent shockwaves through the scientific community. Evolutionist Mary H. Schweitzer of North Carolina State University has discovered flexible blood vessels inside the fossilized thighbone of a "68-70 million year old" Tyrannosaurus rex1 from the Hell Creek formation in eastern Montana. Further investigation revealed round microscopic structures that look to be cells inside the hollow vessels. Even to the untrained eye, the tissue samples look as if the animal died recently. Fibrous protein material was dissolved with an enzyme called collegenase, indicating that amino acid sequencing could probably be done (amino acids are the building blocks of protein).

Although it is too early to make definite statements regarding this stunning and wholly unexpected find, the evidence seems to indicate the T. rex fossil is -- well, young. Young as in just centuries-old, certainly not an age of millions of years. Indeed, Dr. Schweitzer said, "I am quite aware that according to conventional wisdom and models of fossilization, these structures aren't supposed to be there, but there they are. I was pretty shocked."2

Would evolutionary theory have predicted such an amazing discovery? Absolutely not, soft tissue would have degraded completely many millions of years ago no matter how fortuitous the preservation process. Will evolutionary theory now state -- due to this clear physical evidence -- that it is possible dinosaurs roamed the earth until relatively recent times? No, for evolutionary theory will not allow dinosaurs to exist beyond a certain philosophical/evolutionary period.
This is not the first time that puzzling soft tissue has been unearthed. Nucleic acid (DNA) taken from wet "fossil" magnolia leaves allegedly 17-20 million years old have been discovered.3 Fragments of genetic material up to 800 base pairs long were recovered -- amazing considering it does not take long for water to degrade DNA. A microbiologist in California dissected a 25-to-40-million-year-old Dominican stingless bee from amber.4 Spores of bacteria were found inside the insect and actually grew when placed in the proper medium. Dr. Cano, the discoverer, took careful measures to avoid contamination. Analysis of the DNA extracted showed it was very much like the DNA found in bacteria growing in bees today. Just as the creation model predicts, bees have always been bees and bacteria have always been bacteria.

If this is in fact what these various scientific evidences indicate -- soft tissue, bacteria, and DNA ensconced in fossils and amber allegedly millions of years old -- then there needs to be a complete re-evaluation of these evolutionary time spans, especially in light of the advances of the ICR RATE project.

Here's the link, with references at the bottom.

Chips off the Old Blocks

2009-03-31T19:06:00.003-07:00

One of the biggest reasons that we chose to home school is that it allows us during formative years to be the biggest influencers of our children's life. It looks like it is working!

Good times!

2009-03-30T08:06:00.004-07:00

Sunday we took some time to hike around at our favorite Tucson spot - Sabino Canyon. There isn't a lot of water flowing in the canyon but it was enough to wade in and cool off.

When we arrived in Tucson in 2005 we would often see animal life - desert tortoise, rattle snakes, deer. If fact, that summer the only thing I didn't see there was a mountain lion. In 2007 we had such bad flooding that the Canyon was destroyed and closed to the public. Tucson was actually declared a national emergency area that summer.

I mentioned my disappointment in the lack of animal life to my wife as we walked. On the way back Christian stepped right over this guy. Sweet! He must have just eaten because he was moving very, very slowly. His eyes were just slits. I don't think that was related to his eating, but sometimes I look like that after swallowing food whole!

God is an impressive Creator, I think.

Good Friends are Hard to Find

2009-03-25T14:41:00.003-07:00

Nori went out for a hike with grandpa yesterday and came home with a new buddy, Speedy Spike, the horny toad. We went to the park and scooped up a bunch of ants, which he gobbled up later in the day.

What's your Remedy?

2009-03-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

It's been less than 60 days since the new regime came into power. So far we've heard the heads of state call for more involvement and control of health care, education, scientific research, banking, the commercial sector in general, and energy development.

I would say that if we could judge the climate of our country based on the actions of the people that the majority voted into power I would say our country is looking for a Savior. Where could we find one of those?

A boy and his dog, er...

2009-03-11T08:47:00.003-07:00

Wyatt found a pet at the park last week. He played with it for two hours and only gave it up when I told him he was going to get a horrible disease from his new friend. It was fun while it lasted.

Honey Coated Cyanide

2009-03-09T11:14:00.002-07:00

Here's President Obama's most recent pious comments, this time concerning his justification for allowing (actually, directing) broader stem-cell research.

... Obama reiterated a promise to base "public policies on the soundest science" as well as to "appoint scientific advisers based on their credentials and experience, not their politics or ideology."

Two things.

First, this "soundest science" is the same science that has determined we need to drive full boar into developing Green technology, which is based on Global Warming, which is hardly proved by the "soundest science." As I look around, I see God's world as more than green.

Second, this is another example of our President pushing immoral acts with an intelligent-sounding, noble facade. Scientific advisers will be appointed based on what we as Americans say are good credentials (which were also used to find the result of the first point), and NOT by whether or not the things they do are wrong.

So the means justifies the ends. Especially if it helps the federal government gain more power.

I feel confident in saying I'll never ask someone to create a baby, kill four days later, and conduct scientific experiments on it so that I can be cured of disease or sickness I have.

Here's the link I'm referring to: http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/03/09/obama.stem.cells/index.html?eref=rss_topstories

Only a Fool Fails to Plan

2009-03-09T10:38:00.003-07:00

What with the country's leadership and their doctrine, I'm preparing my family for anything in the next eight (probably) years - even nuclear fallout.

Stuff from one of my favorite books

2009-02-16T21:21:00.003-07:00

Here's a few lines from "we would see Jesus" by Roy and Revel Hession, one of my favorites and a book that God influenced my life with.

"...on the Cross of Christ. There in [Jesus] we see the whole naked truth about sin, man, and the God with whom each of us has to do. The very scene that reveals the richest and sweetest grace of God towards man also reveals the starkest truth as to what man is. If grace flows from Calvary, so does truth, for both "grace and truth came by Jesus Christ" (John 1:17).
Let us try to illustrate these things at this point. It is by seeing the concern of the doctor, and the extreme measures prescribed, that the patient learns for the first time the gravity of the trouble from which he is suffering. It is by the reading of the severe sentence imposed on another man that the undiscovered lawbreaker, who has been doing the same things himself but thinking lightly of them, discovers how seriously the law regards his offences.
...
So, in like manner, Jesus says from the cross, "See here your own condition by the shame I had to undergo for you."

Food for thought.

Deep Thoughts by N. R. Sickels

2009-01-29T11:56:00.003-07:00

Nori wrote this poem* the other day. I'm not sure what the assignment was, but I think she did great. I'm always envious of people that have such a knack for lyrics and poems. In this case, though, I'm just proud.

Once I saw a little bird.
At first I thought it quite absurd
That all the birds have wings to flap
Until the bird flew on my lap.

It's amazing how true those words are and how applicable their cultural and spiritual sub-surface meaning is. The most common simplification of it is that "we fear that which we don't understand." There are many, many ways that fear is played out. Here the author uses one of the most common reactions - laugh it off. It's easy to avoid impact on our lives by something that doesn't fit into our "world" by simply dismissing it. In doing so, we often miss an opportunity to grow. A chance for a bigger viewpoint is quickly lost.

C.S. Lewis expounded on this concept in The Screwtape Letters. If Satan can get us to treat anyone or anything that falls outside our approved "world" as silly, absurd, quirky, or peculiar, then we can keep that thing/person in the silly box, quirky box, etc. Soon we will several boxes available for us to place people. The end result will be to prevent the unity that God desires for all His children to experience.

It's only when we encounter something different and we allow it to impact our life, "to land on our lap" so to speak, that understanding (followed by acceptance of the person) can occur.

*used by the express permission of Norianna R. Sickels. All rights reserved.

Now he's 3!

2009-01-20T18:52:00.003-07:00

This post is a little outdated, but I wanted to put up some pics of Wyatt's three year bday. We were all very excited for his day of being older. As expected, he got some great Lightning McQueen stuff! Anyone who spends 15 minutes with him will know that there's little more in this world that tops "Yite nin' Mic Teen."

My What is Tingling

2009-01-19T20:48:00.003-07:00

We watched Over The Hedge a couple of nights ago. We first saw it at the Deanza drive-in and really enjoyed it. The second time was better!

The protagonist is a turtle named Verne played by Gary Shandling (stand-up comedian). Verne leads a "family" of animals. The antagonist is RJ played by Bruce Willis who due to shady acts needs to take advantage of Verne's family to pay his debts. while Verne's family accepts RJ, Verne is suspicious of RJ the whole time. Verne knows something is wrong because there's always something fishy going on when his tail tingles.

The idea that something was telling something was wrong was interesting enough. But the struggle for Verne was whether or not he would listen to it. Verne's struggle rang completely true with me.

I think the Christian life is one of obedience. Throughout the OT and NT, God calls us to obedience. Jesus says that if we love Him we will obey Him. God calls us to turn from wickedness repeatedly. Sometimes God tells us we need to do something; sometimes He says to stop doing something. The struggle for us is whether or not to listen.

In the end, Verne learns that he really needs to trust his "tail tingles." We're lucky to have a tingle, too. I pray that we all are able to heed it.

What's the point?

2008-12-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

I got into a conversation recently about prayer (this pertains to the God of the Bible because of my belief that He is the only living God, thus the only one that can hear us pray) and how in this world it is supposed to work! This has been something that has confused me for a long time. So, I'm opening this up for input after putting out my stance.

1 - Does He answer prayer?

2 - If so, how should we expect to see His answer?

3 - Should we bring Him everything from the big to the little?

4 - Should we seek God for His over arching will for our life?

First, I think God wants us to pray. I think it's clear from Jesus' interaction while on earth and the things He said, that God both wants us to pray and wants to listen our prayers.

I think He is infinately capable enough to handle anything we can throw at Him so "Yes" to Q3. In fact, as it relates to Q4 I think the "little" things are more important to bring to Him because that's the everyday stuff. That's where we live and move. For example, "God, we need a new car but aren't sure how we'll afford it." (I've seen that one answered multiple times in my life and my friends.) Or "God, I need to know how to deal with little Jimmy's problems with math." Or reading, english, hitting, stealing, etc. It's at this level that we can sense that God loves us privately or personally.

Feel free to add more questions.

Couple More

2008-12-06T18:32:00.003-07:00

A Good Visit Anyway

2008-12-06T18:17:00.002-07:00

I'm back from Minnesota. It's sad that I had to go because of a death, but it's a true blessing that we were all able to be together for it.

Not So Wimpy

2008-12-03T17:00:00.005-07:00

Day two in Minnesota. It is was about twenty degrees today, but my body still thought running was a good idea. I gave it a shot and it felt very good (I couldn't feel my fingers, so I don't know if they agreed or not). Thank you, Candi, for instilling strong running desires in me.

I'll get some pictures up, when I can, of the family.

There's no snow here yet.