On a recent Leadership retreat for the RiverTree Middle School ministry, of which I'm now a part, I was challenged to write my salvation story. As I elude to below, there are stories of significant growth and challenges that are probably also worth telling (for example, I was saved at the time of the story below, but it was nearly two decades after that when I began to have a really meaningful and sustained relationship with God.
Anyway - Here’s the draft of my salvation story. I wrote it as though I'd be speaking it to middle school aged kids…
I was raised in a home where my parents openly acknowledged God but church wasn’t a steady part of life and Jesus was “a guy” I’d heard about but the concept of having a relationship with him was completely foreign to me.
At around age 14 or 15 I was invited to something called Young Life. I didn’t know much about it at that time. All I did know was it was an opportunity to see a bunch of my friends on a school night and I’d heard that they did things like watch funny skits, sing funny songs, and it was kinda like a big party! Oh, and they talked a little about the Bible at the end. It didn’t seem like the kind of thing that me and my friends would normally get into - but I kept hearing about how fun it was. I started feeling like I was missing something by not being there. I was even hearing stories about how certain kids who were considered “cool” were showing up at this thing. I needed to check it out.
So I did – and I LOVED it! The people in charge of it actually seemed to LIKE the craziness and silliness. It was an opportunity to be loud and to joke around without getting in trouble. At the end of the night they quieted down and some adult guy (who was actually very funny) got a little more serious and talked about God and Jesus. It was not something I was used to but nobody else seemed to mind, so I really didn’t either. My primary interest was in all the fun we got to have. I looked at all the “God stuff” as the price of admission but it was well worth being quiet ad listening at the end for all the fun we got to have.
Let me back up for a minute and tell you more about who I was at that time. I guess I was considered somewhat popular. I had a lot of friends and I was voted the class clown of my grade, which I saw as a major life accomplishment. I achieved that “honor” by totally disrespecting teachers and all forms of authority. I told crude jokes, played tricks on people, and even did some bullying. I really didn’t care if I hurt somebody else in the process – just as long as I got the laughs I was after.
So now, back to this Young Life thing… It wasn’t all that different from NRG. Remember, I was going for fun, not to be fed spiritually. In fact I didn’t even know what that meant. But I did listen to the messages the guy would share. Each time there was a little nugget about God that I found interesting. The stories were actually kind of cool sometimes. Eventually I actually developed a genuine curiosity about all of this God stuff. It had always seemed kind of like a fairy tale to me but this guy was telling me that God was real – 100% real! And I saw him putting a ton of energy into convincing us that it was real. Why would some adult invest all that time and energy into something that wasn’t real???
Over time I started having other questions. My interest and openness grew. Eventually I got invited to go to a camp which was like the weekly meeting x100! At that camp I learned about Jesus. I learned who he was and that he wanted a relationship with me and that because of him I could live forever - in a place way cooler than this!
I accepted Christ’s gift of salvation at that camp. My eternity was changed because some guy and his “helpers” cared enough to help me find Jesus – even though I was a punk. I don’t remember for sure who first invited me, but God, the creator of the Universe used that person to make a difference in my life and to change my eternity!
Stories like mine unfold every day. My question for you is which character are you? Are you the person that doesn’t know God yet? Or are you the person that allows God to use them to changes someone’s life by inviting them to church or to NRG? Or maybe you’re the one that God is going to use to actually reveal Jesus to someone who hasn’t met Him yet – or maybe even a bunch of people?
So this is only the first chapter in my story. If you continued to follow my story, you’d find that I took God’s gift for granted for a long time. And then eventually there was another period of revelation and growth, and even a time of spiritual warfare – and countless ups and downs along the way. But the bottom line is that all of these experiences have led me here – to who I am today – to having a meaningful relationship with the One who created me and the One who died for me so that I and everyone I love could live with Him forever in Paradise!
I don’t know what you think, but for me the reality of Christ beats ANY Fair Tale that I’ve ever heard!
You all have an opportunity to write the pages of your own life’s story. Don’t miss it – the stakes are way too high!
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Monday, December 31, 2012
The resurrection of DFSOC
It's been a very long time since I actually wrote a blog post. I'd like to think I'll start using this as my online journal, primarily for my own documentation and reflection (perhaps to share with my kids, grandkids, etc), and perhaps occasionally to share a few thoughts/ideas with others. The few things on here are quite out of date (movie lists, etc).
I've had intentions of blogging regularly before any they have always been short lived - we'll see if its any different this time.
Some of the stuff on my mind as 2012 comes to a close are...
I think I should be leading a ministry group of somekind - a bible study, a small group, a "GoCo," a service/outreach group, etc. I pften sense that full time ministry could be in my future. I should be doing someting to prepare (or at the very least to just do my part to contribute to the kingdom). I'll blog separately about one possibility that I've been catching glimpses of....
I need to lose weight - duh...
Need to keep family a priority
Would like to do a mission trip
Want to create some awesome family memories before my oldest goes to college.
I've had intentions of blogging regularly before any they have always been short lived - we'll see if its any different this time.
Some of the stuff on my mind as 2012 comes to a close are...
I think I should be leading a ministry group of somekind - a bible study, a small group, a "GoCo," a service/outreach group, etc. I pften sense that full time ministry could be in my future. I should be doing someting to prepare (or at the very least to just do my part to contribute to the kingdom). I'll blog separately about one possibility that I've been catching glimpses of....
I need to lose weight - duh...
Need to keep family a priority
Would like to do a mission trip
Want to create some awesome family memories before my oldest goes to college.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Sands Ocean Club
Finally got my blogger account recovered (not that I have much time to write).
Check out our new Sands Ocean Club site
http://www.myrtlecondosforless.com/
Check out our new Sands Ocean Club site
http://www.myrtlecondosforless.com/
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Entrepreneurs for the Homeless
Another big idea...
Why not get some of "the great minds" together at church to create a family of businesses that will employ the majority of the homeless men residing at the Refuge of Hope?
There are some businesses that seem relatively inexpensive to start up and to operate. They also employ skills that should be able to be developed quickly...
grass cutting/yard cleanup
painting
cleaning
The money needed to start these businesses is probably less significant than the time required by entreprenurial Christians to start and oversee these businesses. If we were able to form a group of entreprenurial Christian leaders that were willing to invest the time and brainpower to get these businesses started, we could successfully employ a huge percentage of those people at the Refuge who legitimately want to work and make a new start for themselves. Hopefully, a few of them would demonstrate an interest and an ability to move into leadership positions within one of the companies, perhaps partial or even full ownership...
Leadership opportunities would come to those who show an aptitude and a passion for the specific line of work, for leading and encouraging others, and who seem to get the "helping people" side of the business.
Partial or full ownership opportunities would be considered for those who have demonstrated success in leadership and who really have a passion for not only owning and operating the business, but also for changing lives through it. These would be the folks that demonstrate that they are in it for a much greater reason than making money. To them, the business would be about providing a good income for their families, but more importantly they would see the business as a ministry to those they employ and those they serve.
The businesses would provide services priced considerably lower than other "normal" businesses because these would not be about profit - they would be about employment. Services would be priced in such a way as to provide reasonable pay for its employees (perhaps minimum wage or min plus $1 or $2, more for leadership positions of course), and to cover the costs of operating and maintaining the business.
Such a model should lead to surplus demand. Instead of raising rates to balance demand, we would seek to meet demand by finding more people in need of work and spiritual growth. These would be "Christian businesses" that would incorporate prayer and Christian principles in every work day. Work crews might also look like "small groups" that are doing life together and are sharing spiritual growth together each day.
For example, in the landscaping business, each day for a particular crew might start with prayer, including prayer requests from the workers, before they receive their work assignments for the day.
A possible result of the low price/high demand model would be that businesses and homeowners in the city of Canton would be more likely to invest in cosmetic improvements (paint, etc.) that would begin to change Canton from "looking" old and weathered, and poor, and depressed to showing new life, new vitality, and new HOPE. Hopefully, the underlying hope would be contageous and we'd see other efforts spring up in parrallel, leading to a cosmetic and spiritual change throughout the city - again, new energy, new life, new hope.
Anyhow, that's the "quick version" of the vision. I think that I can be one of the drivers in this, but I know I can't do it alone. I'd need the help of several like-minded folks who were willing to share the commitment of time and energy to something like this.
Next steps? Maybe shop the idea around a little. Perhaps meet with a few "candidates" for a committee as well as people currently in these lines fo work to do some proof of concept studies to see how the numbers work. And continue praying about it all...
Why not get some of "the great minds" together at church to create a family of businesses that will employ the majority of the homeless men residing at the Refuge of Hope?
There are some businesses that seem relatively inexpensive to start up and to operate. They also employ skills that should be able to be developed quickly...
grass cutting/yard cleanup
painting
cleaning
The money needed to start these businesses is probably less significant than the time required by entreprenurial Christians to start and oversee these businesses. If we were able to form a group of entreprenurial Christian leaders that were willing to invest the time and brainpower to get these businesses started, we could successfully employ a huge percentage of those people at the Refuge who legitimately want to work and make a new start for themselves. Hopefully, a few of them would demonstrate an interest and an ability to move into leadership positions within one of the companies, perhaps partial or even full ownership...
Leadership opportunities would come to those who show an aptitude and a passion for the specific line of work, for leading and encouraging others, and who seem to get the "helping people" side of the business.
Partial or full ownership opportunities would be considered for those who have demonstrated success in leadership and who really have a passion for not only owning and operating the business, but also for changing lives through it. These would be the folks that demonstrate that they are in it for a much greater reason than making money. To them, the business would be about providing a good income for their families, but more importantly they would see the business as a ministry to those they employ and those they serve.
The businesses would provide services priced considerably lower than other "normal" businesses because these would not be about profit - they would be about employment. Services would be priced in such a way as to provide reasonable pay for its employees (perhaps minimum wage or min plus $1 or $2, more for leadership positions of course), and to cover the costs of operating and maintaining the business.
Such a model should lead to surplus demand. Instead of raising rates to balance demand, we would seek to meet demand by finding more people in need of work and spiritual growth. These would be "Christian businesses" that would incorporate prayer and Christian principles in every work day. Work crews might also look like "small groups" that are doing life together and are sharing spiritual growth together each day.
For example, in the landscaping business, each day for a particular crew might start with prayer, including prayer requests from the workers, before they receive their work assignments for the day.
A possible result of the low price/high demand model would be that businesses and homeowners in the city of Canton would be more likely to invest in cosmetic improvements (paint, etc.) that would begin to change Canton from "looking" old and weathered, and poor, and depressed to showing new life, new vitality, and new HOPE. Hopefully, the underlying hope would be contageous and we'd see other efforts spring up in parrallel, leading to a cosmetic and spiritual change throughout the city - again, new energy, new life, new hope.
Anyhow, that's the "quick version" of the vision. I think that I can be one of the drivers in this, but I know I can't do it alone. I'd need the help of several like-minded folks who were willing to share the commitment of time and energy to something like this.
Next steps? Maybe shop the idea around a little. Perhaps meet with a few "candidates" for a committee as well as people currently in these lines fo work to do some proof of concept studies to see how the numbers work. And continue praying about it all...
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Sweet Taylor
Steph sent this to me today
I gotta tell you this story. This morning I was talking to Tay and asking her who she hangs out with at recess. She said she was hanging out with this girl named Peyton. Peyton appearantly takes cheer lessons. Well she claims that she is a "cheerleader" for a football team. Of course Tay is like 'you have to be in 3rd grade to do that.' She probably does cheer 'on a team' but not how Tay pictures it (Like Logan's team). Anyways, Peyton fired Tay as a friend. Tay had other girls to play with but decided she was going to go around and find kids who are alone and play with them because it makes her sad to see people by themselves. She said her goal today is to find other kids that are alone, and hook them up with someone to play with, and hide to see that
they are playing and then run away really fast to find someone else who is alone! How sweet is that? I told her that that made God very happy and that she was serving God by helping others!! HOW AWESOME IS THAT!!
I gotta tell you this story. This morning I was talking to Tay and asking her who she hangs out with at recess. She said she was hanging out with this girl named Peyton. Peyton appearantly takes cheer lessons. Well she claims that she is a "cheerleader" for a football team. Of course Tay is like 'you have to be in 3rd grade to do that.' She probably does cheer 'on a team' but not how Tay pictures it (Like Logan's team). Anyways, Peyton fired Tay as a friend. Tay had other girls to play with but decided she was going to go around and find kids who are alone and play with them because it makes her sad to see people by themselves. She said her goal today is to find other kids that are alone, and hook them up with someone to play with, and hide to see that
they are playing and then run away really fast to find someone else who is alone! How sweet is that? I told her that that made God very happy and that she was serving God by helping others!! HOW AWESOME IS THAT!!
Monday, June 18, 2007
My up and coming entrepreneurs
Logan and Taylor have been wanting to run a lemonade stand to make some money. Today, the tree cutters were next door taking down a tree so they asked if they could make lemonade for them. Steph assumed they wanted to do just that – take them some lemonade. Then after they made it they asked – how much should we charge them? Steph says “ why don’t you just give it to them to be nice, to which they replied “mom – don’t you know anything about business?”
Monday, May 14, 2007
Survivor Finale - gut-wrenching TV...
OK, because I’m a survivor junkie I have to offer my 2 cents on last night’s finale…
Going into last night I, like many others, hoped that Yau man would be rewarded for his act of generosity (and it WAS a generous act, even if it had strategic value to him personally). And I’ve gotta say, I believed in Dreamz. I was cheering for him too, hoping that he’d have the opportunity to make good on his promise – and that in doing so he’d be recognized as a man deserving of the final 3 anyway. I don’t know what it is about him – but I’ve felt sympathy for him for awhile. Even when he was making mistakes or doing stupid things. It was easy for me to be sympathetic and to rationalize that he wasn’t well equipped to make great decisions because of his background. I was pretty able to see that if I grew up with nothing, and with no quality parental input or mentoring and I went on a show where lying and deceit were part of the game, and all I had to do to was to go back on a promise in order to guarantee myself a share of the runner up prize and have a chance at $1M – I would probably have made the same decision.
It actually frustrated me to think that so many watching the show would judge him so harshly from their comfortable homes, watching on big screen TVs with two cars parked in the attached garage. I think we’re all a lot more capable of making those kinds of wrong decisions than we’re generally willing to admit.
But here’s the piece that cut like a knife – when they went back and replayed the footage from the original promised and Dreams “swore to God” that he’d keep his promise – ugh, my stomach dropped. I think that many in our Culture (both Christian and non-Christian) love to point the finger at someone when they make Christianity look bad. I admit, I was angry that he said what he said and did what he did, BUT what the millions of viewers didn’t here was that we all make similar mistakes and GOD FORGIVES THEM ALL!
That takes me to the final tribal counsel. First, it goes without saying that the kind of taunting, bullying, verbal abuse and strange logic that we saw from bitter cast-offs like Alex and Lisi were painful to watch and didn’t reflect favorably on the characters who launched “said assaults.” But it was Boo’s segment that conflicted me the most.
On one hand, I was thrilled to death that he was boldly proclaiming his Faith to a national audience. On the other hand, where was this character and these values throughout the game? Were they just edited out? That’s a possibility. Back to the first hand – I was glad to see him say that he still had hope for Dreamz, but on the other I felt that throwing this in his face they way he did might not have been the way Jesus would have chosen to handle it. I reflected also on the way that Boo approached the final three when it was his turn. He warned them that they’d better “wipe those smiles of their faces” - why? Because this holy Christian Warrior was about to show the nation how “real Christians” conduct themselves? Or was he a bit self righteous and grandstanding just a teeny tiny bit?
I love it when Christianity invades pop-culture, but this was really a tough one for me to watch. I was cheering for God in that episode – excited that He’d be brought some glory, but man, I just kept getting that let down, disappointed feeling. Don’t get me wrong, there is hope and forgiveness for all – I know that – I was just hoping that the millions that watch the show would be witnessed to in an awesome and unexpected way last night.
I’ll keep watching, and I’ll pray that Pastor Benny gets a shot to witness before this audience some day!
Going into last night I, like many others, hoped that Yau man would be rewarded for his act of generosity (and it WAS a generous act, even if it had strategic value to him personally). And I’ve gotta say, I believed in Dreamz. I was cheering for him too, hoping that he’d have the opportunity to make good on his promise – and that in doing so he’d be recognized as a man deserving of the final 3 anyway. I don’t know what it is about him – but I’ve felt sympathy for him for awhile. Even when he was making mistakes or doing stupid things. It was easy for me to be sympathetic and to rationalize that he wasn’t well equipped to make great decisions because of his background. I was pretty able to see that if I grew up with nothing, and with no quality parental input or mentoring and I went on a show where lying and deceit were part of the game, and all I had to do to was to go back on a promise in order to guarantee myself a share of the runner up prize and have a chance at $1M – I would probably have made the same decision.
It actually frustrated me to think that so many watching the show would judge him so harshly from their comfortable homes, watching on big screen TVs with two cars parked in the attached garage. I think we’re all a lot more capable of making those kinds of wrong decisions than we’re generally willing to admit.
But here’s the piece that cut like a knife – when they went back and replayed the footage from the original promised and Dreams “swore to God” that he’d keep his promise – ugh, my stomach dropped. I think that many in our Culture (both Christian and non-Christian) love to point the finger at someone when they make Christianity look bad. I admit, I was angry that he said what he said and did what he did, BUT what the millions of viewers didn’t here was that we all make similar mistakes and GOD FORGIVES THEM ALL!
That takes me to the final tribal counsel. First, it goes without saying that the kind of taunting, bullying, verbal abuse and strange logic that we saw from bitter cast-offs like Alex and Lisi were painful to watch and didn’t reflect favorably on the characters who launched “said assaults.” But it was Boo’s segment that conflicted me the most.
On one hand, I was thrilled to death that he was boldly proclaiming his Faith to a national audience. On the other hand, where was this character and these values throughout the game? Were they just edited out? That’s a possibility. Back to the first hand – I was glad to see him say that he still had hope for Dreamz, but on the other I felt that throwing this in his face they way he did might not have been the way Jesus would have chosen to handle it. I reflected also on the way that Boo approached the final three when it was his turn. He warned them that they’d better “wipe those smiles of their faces” - why? Because this holy Christian Warrior was about to show the nation how “real Christians” conduct themselves? Or was he a bit self righteous and grandstanding just a teeny tiny bit?
I love it when Christianity invades pop-culture, but this was really a tough one for me to watch. I was cheering for God in that episode – excited that He’d be brought some glory, but man, I just kept getting that let down, disappointed feeling. Don’t get me wrong, there is hope and forgiveness for all – I know that – I was just hoping that the millions that watch the show would be witnessed to in an awesome and unexpected way last night.
I’ll keep watching, and I’ll pray that Pastor Benny gets a shot to witness before this audience some day!
Friday, May 11, 2007
Papa's pride
Logan pitched in her first game ever last night. Both our team and our opponents were short on "seasoned" pitchers last night due to a choir performance at the Akron Aeros game. Prior to last night Logan had such fear of being called on to pitch in a game. She had seen only one other third grader on our team attempt the feat before. That girl had a rough time throwing strikes and ended up in tears. Logan, whose emotions are often delicate anyway, wanted nothing to do with that experience. Anyhow, her coach told her that she was going to pitch in the 4th inning. She was nervous and I knew that if she walked anyone she was going to fall apart in tears. Well didn't she surprise me? I had told her before she went to the mound that she would walk someone and that great pitchers can shake that off and stick with it. Well she must have taken it to heart. The other team did score the 7 run limit that inning. Logan did walk a few runs home, but she threw a lot of strikes too and even recorded her first strikeout. And most importantly, despite the walks and despite the runs - NOT A TEAR WAS SHED! In fact a short time later I cuaght her smiling and giggling to herself - She wouldn't tell me why. Later in the car she told me that she felt really good about herself and that she surprised herself by feeling comfortable on the mound and that she was proud of her accomplishment. What more can a parent ask for than the kind of genuine joy that makes a girl smile and giggle through adversity?
I love being a dad!
I love being a dad!
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Playing Defense
Some time ago I read Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad poor Dad. It made monumental changes in my life and in the lives of my family. I learned a new way to view finances, opportunities, “the rat race,” and it even caused me to reflect on values and what success and wealth are defined as for me. My revised definition of wealth is the topic for a future blog entry. Right now I want to talk about finances.
I was reminded this morning of a great mantra that I adopted during the period of time that I was studying personal finance: “Financial independence requires playing a mix of good offense and good defense.” Playing offense is creating money – going to work, or better yet (as Kitosaki suggests) investing in assets that create passive income for you without much blood, sweat, and tears. Equally important is palying good defense – which means spending wisely. A bad defense can negate a great offense in a hurry. (For more on this, read “the Millionaire next door).
The reminder came from my wife who called me to tell me about the incredible deals she had just found at the Salvation Army store. She said that she was finding “TOP NAME BRANDS AT CRAZY LOW PRICES!” Ok – she didn’t say it that way – but it’s more fun to tell it that way. Anyhow, seriously, she was finding things that appeared to be brand new, by the same makers that sell for huge money at the mall, for small fractions of the price. A $60 pair of “Tommy” jeans like new for $4.99. A $70 Liz Caliborne something or other for 3.99. A Limited whatever for 2.99! She was thrilled – said she never wanted to shop anywhere else.
What else can we do to play good defense? For each of us it’s different. Each of us spends money wastefully on different things. I’ve decided to give up my $75/mo parking pass at work to instead park at the 50 cent lot on the other side of the highway (at least until winter). Sure I’ll have to walk a bit each day, but I can use the exercise and the $65 I’ll save. Recently we switched over to an all in one cable, phone, and internet service that will save us $35/mo. We’re also starting to use online bill payments everywhere possible to save on stamps. We’re visiting the ATM less often. We’re TRYING to eat out less. This stuff all adds up in a hurry! Thank goodness we never started with the “happy meals” – I think those things should be outlawed – and please don’t ever set foot in an Aaron’s or rent a center. I think it’s criminal what they charge people for “furniture rental.” Instead get on freecycle.com and tell folks what you need – you’d be shocked at the generosity in your own back yard (by the way, freecycle is a great way to get rid of stuff you don’t want by giving it away to someone in need who is also willing to come pick it up).
So anyway, think about your defensive game – How are you doing?
We’ll talk offense another day…
I was reminded this morning of a great mantra that I adopted during the period of time that I was studying personal finance: “Financial independence requires playing a mix of good offense and good defense.” Playing offense is creating money – going to work, or better yet (as Kitosaki suggests) investing in assets that create passive income for you without much blood, sweat, and tears. Equally important is palying good defense – which means spending wisely. A bad defense can negate a great offense in a hurry. (For more on this, read “the Millionaire next door).
The reminder came from my wife who called me to tell me about the incredible deals she had just found at the Salvation Army store. She said that she was finding “TOP NAME BRANDS AT CRAZY LOW PRICES!” Ok – she didn’t say it that way – but it’s more fun to tell it that way. Anyhow, seriously, she was finding things that appeared to be brand new, by the same makers that sell for huge money at the mall, for small fractions of the price. A $60 pair of “Tommy” jeans like new for $4.99. A $70 Liz Caliborne something or other for 3.99. A Limited whatever for 2.99! She was thrilled – said she never wanted to shop anywhere else.
What else can we do to play good defense? For each of us it’s different. Each of us spends money wastefully on different things. I’ve decided to give up my $75/mo parking pass at work to instead park at the 50 cent lot on the other side of the highway (at least until winter). Sure I’ll have to walk a bit each day, but I can use the exercise and the $65 I’ll save. Recently we switched over to an all in one cable, phone, and internet service that will save us $35/mo. We’re also starting to use online bill payments everywhere possible to save on stamps. We’re visiting the ATM less often. We’re TRYING to eat out less. This stuff all adds up in a hurry! Thank goodness we never started with the “happy meals” – I think those things should be outlawed – and please don’t ever set foot in an Aaron’s or rent a center. I think it’s criminal what they charge people for “furniture rental.” Instead get on freecycle.com and tell folks what you need – you’d be shocked at the generosity in your own back yard (by the way, freecycle is a great way to get rid of stuff you don’t want by giving it away to someone in need who is also willing to come pick it up).
So anyway, think about your defensive game – How are you doing?
We’ll talk offense another day…
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Here's an answered prayer..
Friends of ours traveled to China today to adopt a little girl that needed a home. The adoption has been over 2 years in the making. I'm so happy and excited for them. Words don't exist that can capture the joy and the impact that this adoption will have on their whole family and on friends and even acquaintences around them. Thank you God!
Friday, May 04, 2007
Real Estate on the Brain
Father God, I pray in agreement with Steph. You blessed us by putting the condos, cabins and houses before us. In addition to the financial blessing, you've taught us that worldly things are less important than our Spiritual and Family life. We've learned that we should value time spent with others more than money or prestige - that "things" bring with them problems and stresses of their own. If it is your will for us to also be financially blessed by these condos in addition to these other learnings, we so sincerely pray that you will relieve us of the financial and mental burdens associated with owning them. We pray that through these sales we will become free from debt, and more able to focus on relationships and on extending your Kingdom - by witnessing about our experience and doing more to show your love to those in the world that need it most. We know that you have a plan and that sometimes we need to go through dark valleys in order to appreciate the glorious mountaintops, and so we thank you even for the rough time, as it will make the blessing even sweeter. Thank you for the gift of our salvation and the blessed lives you've chosen for us. In the holy name of your Son Jesus we pray.
Amen.
Amen.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Lessons Learned?
We’ve been praying for over a year – probably more like a year and a half about getting the condos sold. God did answer with one sale in 2006 and we’re very grateful. At the same time we’re desperately praying for the sale of the others, and of the Gatlinburg cabin (and the local rentals for that matter). We feel that God has done much through real estate to get our attention. We believe that even before we came to church and were baptized as new Christian, that he was laying out some lessons for us. I think that he wanted us to feel blessed in our early walk – and we did. I think he wanted us to place all faith in Him to sell the Auburn property that sat for over a year before we stopped trying to do things to make it happen ourselves. Less than 24 hours after that we had a full price offer. His presence was undeniable. Steph did the same thing and yielded Hazlett to Him and literally 15 minutes later, our tenant called and asked if they could buy it from us. The tenant is a tough case for financing but through God’s intervention alone, it appears that the sale will go through. After cutting our prices at least 3 times, and after negotiating to let the resort take over management, and after sincerely giving away the selling of them, we’re still waiting for our prayer to be answered. Ya know, since become Christian, there have been very few passion filled prayers that have not been fulfilled for us. I mean we’ve watched two young people be healed of cancer, for “unreachable” relatives’ whole families come to Christ. Maybe God wants us to learn some lesson about unanswered prayers this time. I Sooooo, don’t want that to be the case. Deep in my soul I trust Him, and I know that he’s got our best interests in mind, and that I can’t see what He can, but from my perspective at ground zero, It’s really rotten that we haven’t been freed from these yet. I was so sure that we clearly saw His direction for us to eliminate debt so that we wouldn’t be its servants. Maybe we received a message that wasn’t really the one He sent. Maybe we misinterpreted. Maybe there’s something He wants us to learn from the struggle. As I write this I do remember that RiverCity was something that we prayed passionately about for a long time and it didn’t pan out as we prayed. Somehow maybe this is similar. I have no choice but to wait to see how His plan unfolds and pray for it to happen expeditiously. I trust Him and know that He knows best (but I still don’t like waiting…LOL)
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
Kingdom Building Co.
So here's an idea that I've been praying about. I'm not ready to kick it into full gear yet - I don't know if/how I can muster the energy to do it with excellence so I'm looking for God's affirmation or correction. Nonetheless, it's a VERY exciting concept. Maybe this is my "Lion" (reference to Batterson's book "In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day")
KINGDOM
B U I L D I N G C O .
The BIG Idea:
The Kingdom Building Company will spread the Word of God and show His affection for His people by generating financial resources through real estate investment. ALL of the profit generated by EVERY investment will be used to fund needed physical resources for areas stricken with poverty. Delivery of the physical resource will be accompanied by spiritual feeding for all of the beneficiaries.
The Details
Each investment will be a stand alone project, with its own team, and will be focused on meeting a specific need in a specific geography. Each team will have an individual or group of financial investors and several volunteer laborers. Each team member will donate/invest either their time or their money (or both). The only payback they will receive is the satisfaction that their investment will return fantastic dividends in terms of Kingdom growth. In addition to the investment of time or money, each team member will pray for the projet, for the people that will eventually live in the subject home, and for those living in poverty who will receive the physical and spiritual benefit from the project. Prayer will be an important part of every team and every project.
Who We Need
- Financial investors – These individuals or groups will agree to fund the project either with cash or paper. At the end of a project, ALL of the costs incurred in the project will be refunded to its investors before any profit is calculated. ALL profit generated in the project will be used to provide physical blessings (eg. Medicines, food, clothing, shelter, ect.) for people living in poverty.
- Laborers – These individuals will give of their time and talents. Both skilled an non-skilled labor will be utilized to provide such functions as painting, dry-walling, roofing, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, flooring, and general construction.
- Realtor – This individual will donate their skills and services to identify, negotiate, and acquire new properties, and to list, market, and sell completed properties.
- Financing Parner/Underwriter – This individual or company will donate their skills and services to secure any needed borrowing for the investors or potential buyers. All avoidable costs will be donated.
- Auditor – This individual will testify to the financial responsibility of the Kingdom Building Co. They will provide assurance that all of the money is handled in accordance with Company rules. They will make certain that a) Investors are made whole of all costs incurred b) That ALL remaining profit goes toward the financial blessing targeted by the project.
- Partnerships – The Kingdom Building Company will seek partnerships with other like minded organization who are already on the ground in areas of poverty to a) Identify needs and b) to deliver both the physical and spiritual resources.
Who Gets Paid?
The goal will be that no one gets paid from one of our projects, however, there will undoubtedly be some unavoidable expenditures. For example, any borrowed money will have a cost – some financial institution will make a profit on that borrowed money. Also, there will be some skills that we will not be able to employ within our volunteer groups at the birth of this organization. When it makes sense we will hire out those types of skills until we do get those skills on our team. In those cases we will negotiate excellent pricing to maximize value. It will be a goal that all skills on a project will be volunteered.
An Example of a current Opportunity
Today there is an opportunity to buy a property in Canton for either $31,500 cash or $34,900 financed. A contractor has quoted the cost of the needed improvements at $12,000. A realtor has estimated that the property will sell for $69-79,000.
Using the most conservative estimates (which Kingdom Building Co. will always use), As a Kingdom Building Company project it should unfold like this:
Investors acquire the house for 34,900. At closing they provide $8,000 (down payment and closing costs). Over the life of the project they incur another $2,000 of carrying costs. They also provide funding for the materials needed to rehab the property. If we hired out 100% of the work we know the cost would be $12,000, but because this project will be done primarily with volunteers, the expected cost to rehab will be $4,000. So our investor(s) total out of pocket investment in the project will be $14,000.
Our laborers will paint the interior and exterior of the home from top to bottom, clean up some minor electrical and plumbing issues, and do some landscaping outside. A third party will install carpet and a new furnace.
Throughout the project, the team prays for the individuals that will one day live in this house and also for those folks living in poverty whose physical and spiritual needs will be met through this project.
The house sells for $67,000 to a first time home buyer who feels fortunate to have gotten such a good deal on such a nice home in such fantastic condition (new carpet, paint, furnace and a good roof). That buyer will be advised of the Christian team that prayed for them and blessed their home.
Because the person was represented by a non-partner realtor, we must pay their half of the commission on the sale - $2000. We also agreed to pay $2000 of their closing costs, in addition to our own $1000 of closing costs.
Of the 67,000 the reductions are…
(2000) selling agent commission (note that our listing agent deferred their half of the commission)
(3,000) closing costs
(14,000) returned to investors
(27,500) to pay off the investors’ mortgage
=$20,500
This $20,500 will then be used to procure medicine, food, clothing, or shelter for a community of people living in poverty. When those resources are delivered, the people will hear a Gospel message perhaps for the first time. They will know that a team of Americans undertook this project because God is good and loves them deeply and wants them to enjoy His blessings.
Note: $30,000 starts a Compassion Life Saving Station. How many of these might be funded this way?
Not every project will be this profitable. Some will be even more profitable. Every project will be a success.
Will you join me?
If this vision moves you, please share it with others. If you or they are interested in being a part of this ministry, please contact me at 330-854-4579 or by email at dfletcher@sssnet.com.
I look forward to serving with you!
David C. Fletcher
KINGDOM
B U I L D I N G C O .
The BIG Idea:
The Kingdom Building Company will spread the Word of God and show His affection for His people by generating financial resources through real estate investment. ALL of the profit generated by EVERY investment will be used to fund needed physical resources for areas stricken with poverty. Delivery of the physical resource will be accompanied by spiritual feeding for all of the beneficiaries.
The Details
Each investment will be a stand alone project, with its own team, and will be focused on meeting a specific need in a specific geography. Each team will have an individual or group of financial investors and several volunteer laborers. Each team member will donate/invest either their time or their money (or both). The only payback they will receive is the satisfaction that their investment will return fantastic dividends in terms of Kingdom growth. In addition to the investment of time or money, each team member will pray for the projet, for the people that will eventually live in the subject home, and for those living in poverty who will receive the physical and spiritual benefit from the project. Prayer will be an important part of every team and every project.
Who We Need
- Financial investors – These individuals or groups will agree to fund the project either with cash or paper. At the end of a project, ALL of the costs incurred in the project will be refunded to its investors before any profit is calculated. ALL profit generated in the project will be used to provide physical blessings (eg. Medicines, food, clothing, shelter, ect.) for people living in poverty.
- Laborers – These individuals will give of their time and talents. Both skilled an non-skilled labor will be utilized to provide such functions as painting, dry-walling, roofing, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, flooring, and general construction.
- Realtor – This individual will donate their skills and services to identify, negotiate, and acquire new properties, and to list, market, and sell completed properties.
- Financing Parner/Underwriter – This individual or company will donate their skills and services to secure any needed borrowing for the investors or potential buyers. All avoidable costs will be donated.
- Auditor – This individual will testify to the financial responsibility of the Kingdom Building Co. They will provide assurance that all of the money is handled in accordance with Company rules. They will make certain that a) Investors are made whole of all costs incurred b) That ALL remaining profit goes toward the financial blessing targeted by the project.
- Partnerships – The Kingdom Building Company will seek partnerships with other like minded organization who are already on the ground in areas of poverty to a) Identify needs and b) to deliver both the physical and spiritual resources.
Who Gets Paid?
The goal will be that no one gets paid from one of our projects, however, there will undoubtedly be some unavoidable expenditures. For example, any borrowed money will have a cost – some financial institution will make a profit on that borrowed money. Also, there will be some skills that we will not be able to employ within our volunteer groups at the birth of this organization. When it makes sense we will hire out those types of skills until we do get those skills on our team. In those cases we will negotiate excellent pricing to maximize value. It will be a goal that all skills on a project will be volunteered.
An Example of a current Opportunity
Today there is an opportunity to buy a property in Canton for either $31,500 cash or $34,900 financed. A contractor has quoted the cost of the needed improvements at $12,000. A realtor has estimated that the property will sell for $69-79,000.
Using the most conservative estimates (which Kingdom Building Co. will always use), As a Kingdom Building Company project it should unfold like this:
Investors acquire the house for 34,900. At closing they provide $8,000 (down payment and closing costs). Over the life of the project they incur another $2,000 of carrying costs. They also provide funding for the materials needed to rehab the property. If we hired out 100% of the work we know the cost would be $12,000, but because this project will be done primarily with volunteers, the expected cost to rehab will be $4,000. So our investor(s) total out of pocket investment in the project will be $14,000.
Our laborers will paint the interior and exterior of the home from top to bottom, clean up some minor electrical and plumbing issues, and do some landscaping outside. A third party will install carpet and a new furnace.
Throughout the project, the team prays for the individuals that will one day live in this house and also for those folks living in poverty whose physical and spiritual needs will be met through this project.
The house sells for $67,000 to a first time home buyer who feels fortunate to have gotten such a good deal on such a nice home in such fantastic condition (new carpet, paint, furnace and a good roof). That buyer will be advised of the Christian team that prayed for them and blessed their home.
Because the person was represented by a non-partner realtor, we must pay their half of the commission on the sale - $2000. We also agreed to pay $2000 of their closing costs, in addition to our own $1000 of closing costs.
Of the 67,000 the reductions are…
(2000) selling agent commission (note that our listing agent deferred their half of the commission)
(3,000) closing costs
(14,000) returned to investors
(27,500) to pay off the investors’ mortgage
=$20,500
This $20,500 will then be used to procure medicine, food, clothing, or shelter for a community of people living in poverty. When those resources are delivered, the people will hear a Gospel message perhaps for the first time. They will know that a team of Americans undertook this project because God is good and loves them deeply and wants them to enjoy His blessings.
Note: $30,000 starts a Compassion Life Saving Station. How many of these might be funded this way?
Not every project will be this profitable. Some will be even more profitable. Every project will be a success.
Will you join me?
If this vision moves you, please share it with others. If you or they are interested in being a part of this ministry, please contact me at 330-854-4579 or by email at dfletcher@sssnet.com.
I look forward to serving with you!
David C. Fletcher
Monday, April 30, 2007
Shorty
What a weekend! We packed a ton in - It was tiring but wonderful also. Between Saturday and Sunday we packed in 5 softball events (pictures for Logan and Taylor, a game for each, and a bonus practice for Logan in the drizzling rain), not to mention a trip to the batting cages and some front yard pitching practice. We also took a very pleasant bike ride last night and managed to get in a couple of movies over the weekend too ( School of Rock and the Wilderness family). A much needed nap or two got us through - and lemme tell ya - those naps felt great - really - have you ever had a great nap? Isn't it awesome?
Taylor's league doesn't keep score, but she and the team had a ton of fun. Despite being scared of backlash, I said a prayer with all the girls before we took the field. No one has said anything yet.
Logan's team won their first game 10-0 and they looked great. Logan wasn't satisfied with her own performance - she's so tough on herself. She wants to be a hero to her freinds in the worst way.
On a related note - here's a piece of an email I sent to her coach today...
I haven't been able to figure out why Logan has had such trouble with pitching. Something has looked unnatural with her motion and I couldn't seem to coach her through it - until last night when we were practicing. You're not going to believe this, but somehow I've allowed her all this time to pitch with the wrong foot forward. So she's been trying to release the ball from her right hand with her right foot forward. So after we finally figured it out and corrected it, wouldn't ya know the kid can throw strikes.
Granted - she's not ready for a game situation (probably more mentally unprepared than anything - she can be a stress case) but I think with a little more practice and some added confidence she may actually be able to pitch. We were pitching to imaginary batters - counting balls and strikes - and she actually struck out more than she walked.
I guess those minor details are pretty important - ha!
She has another game tonight.
Rylie is a gorgeous awesome baby, and her momma does a fantastic job caring for her, as she has with the others. I'll be the first to confess that she does all the "heavy lifting" with the babies. I get to be the fun guy a lot of the time, but her investment in the hard things and the less glamorous are so important and so genuinely loving. I'm lucky to have her and so are the kids!
I treasure the time I spend with my family.
Taylor's league doesn't keep score, but she and the team had a ton of fun. Despite being scared of backlash, I said a prayer with all the girls before we took the field. No one has said anything yet.
Logan's team won their first game 10-0 and they looked great. Logan wasn't satisfied with her own performance - she's so tough on herself. She wants to be a hero to her freinds in the worst way.
On a related note - here's a piece of an email I sent to her coach today...
I haven't been able to figure out why Logan has had such trouble with pitching. Something has looked unnatural with her motion and I couldn't seem to coach her through it - until last night when we were practicing. You're not going to believe this, but somehow I've allowed her all this time to pitch with the wrong foot forward. So she's been trying to release the ball from her right hand with her right foot forward. So after we finally figured it out and corrected it, wouldn't ya know the kid can throw strikes.
Granted - she's not ready for a game situation (probably more mentally unprepared than anything - she can be a stress case) but I think with a little more practice and some added confidence she may actually be able to pitch. We were pitching to imaginary batters - counting balls and strikes - and she actually struck out more than she walked.
I guess those minor details are pretty important - ha!
She has another game tonight.
Rylie is a gorgeous awesome baby, and her momma does a fantastic job caring for her, as she has with the others. I'll be the first to confess that she does all the "heavy lifting" with the babies. I get to be the fun guy a lot of the time, but her investment in the hard things and the less glamorous are so important and so genuinely loving. I'm lucky to have her and so are the kids!
I treasure the time I spend with my family.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Spring is here
It's always weird for me to "blog." Maybe it's the whole "talkin to myself" thing. Anyhow, life is busy as usual. Rylie is already 6 months old and I'm realizing that we've taken very few pictures and very little video. I guess the good news is that we've spent lots of time being with her even if we weren't capturing it on film. I hope she'll forgive us later. I'll make an effort to get more footage of her 2nd half year...
I'm coaching Logan's and Taylor's softball teams this year. That is a mix of emotions. As the "manager" of Taylor's team, I feel a great responsibility to make the team a fantastic experience for the girls. I view it as much more than softball. I think the experience also plays into social skill development, perceptions of sports, competition, adults, men, winning, losing, etc.
I want them to have exposure to a healthy example of each of those things. No pressure there! And I want them to have fun - it seems like they are. In addition to that kid of pressure, there's also the pressure of being the central coordinator for all the parents. So far there's no major problems - it's mostly self inflicted stress. I'm going to say a short prayer with the girls before our first game. I'm a little anxious about what the reactions from parents might be. We'll see.
Being an assistant coach for Logan's team is much "simpler." I don't have to be THE guy. I can still be a lot of those other things, but somebody else is the focus, and fortunately I really like the guy too.
The books I've been reading for the Leading Edge class have been phenomenal as is the small group that meets in between to discuss them. I'm glad to know these folks. They are each leaders with big plans to impact the world. Collectively we have spectacular potential (by God) to make a huge difference. When you consider that we're just a small handfull of people in the Leading Edge Classes, who are a small group within a pretty large church that has many many more of these types in it, and that we are just one healthy active church among many in stark County, Ohio, America, etc. it's encouraging to think what could happen if we all just get and stay focused on changing the world and bringing Heaven to Earth!
Wow - that was fun!
I'm coaching Logan's and Taylor's softball teams this year. That is a mix of emotions. As the "manager" of Taylor's team, I feel a great responsibility to make the team a fantastic experience for the girls. I view it as much more than softball. I think the experience also plays into social skill development, perceptions of sports, competition, adults, men, winning, losing, etc.
I want them to have exposure to a healthy example of each of those things. No pressure there! And I want them to have fun - it seems like they are. In addition to that kid of pressure, there's also the pressure of being the central coordinator for all the parents. So far there's no major problems - it's mostly self inflicted stress. I'm going to say a short prayer with the girls before our first game. I'm a little anxious about what the reactions from parents might be. We'll see.
Being an assistant coach for Logan's team is much "simpler." I don't have to be THE guy. I can still be a lot of those other things, but somebody else is the focus, and fortunately I really like the guy too.
The books I've been reading for the Leading Edge class have been phenomenal as is the small group that meets in between to discuss them. I'm glad to know these folks. They are each leaders with big plans to impact the world. Collectively we have spectacular potential (by God) to make a huge difference. When you consider that we're just a small handfull of people in the Leading Edge Classes, who are a small group within a pretty large church that has many many more of these types in it, and that we are just one healthy active church among many in stark County, Ohio, America, etc. it's encouraging to think what could happen if we all just get and stay focused on changing the world and bringing Heaven to Earth!
Wow - that was fun!
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
email survey
I thought I'd store this here...
This is for fun. Hope I receive it back from you.
Read through the comments below about your friend and then make sure
you read the instructions at the bottom. Have fun!
1. What time is it? 10:50am
2. Full Name? David C Fletcher
3. What do you fear most? I'm not scared of death, per se, but I want to live a long life on Earth with my wife and kids and grandkids, etc before going home to my maker. The thought of that not happening is what's scary to me - anything that would cause me not to have that time with them, or that any of the kids would be injured in a way that would hinder their ability to live their lives to the fullest. I'm also petrified of eye wounds...
4. What do you drive? Honda Accord
5. Have you ever seen a ghost? No
6. Where were you born? Canton, Ohio
7. Ever been to Alaska? no
8. Ever been toilet papering, rolling, or decorating
trees? me? nooooooo - OK - busted - of course!
9. Croutons or Bacon bits? Croutons, easily
10. Favorite day of the week: Saturday by a long shot
11. Favorite restaurant? Don Pablos
12. Favorite Flower? Are you serious - um, colorful ones that take little to no maintenance I guess...
13. Favorite sport to watch: football - duh
14. Favorite Drink: N/A = diet pepsi A=Bud Light (beer) or any kind of tropical flavored drink with fruit juices and rum for mixed drinks...
15. Favorite Ice cream: Does it matter? Just like pizza - there's little I don't like, but if forced to pick I guess I'd choose something chocolate and/or with some kind of chocolate chunks in it. Ben and Jerry's chocolate fudge brownie rocks! But so does moose tracks!
16. Disney or Warner Brothers: Disney, easily
17. Favorite fast food restaurant: taco bell, by far
18. What color is your bedroom carpet: emerald green
19. How many times did you fail your driving exam?
1 I think - it was devastating
20. Before this one, from whom did you get your last
e-mail from? my wife
21. What do you do most often when you are bored?
It's rare that I find myself bored - that would be kinda cool - to have time that you didn't feel like you had a long list of things waiting for you, but in the event that I'm looking for something to do I guess video games and movies are my favorite ways to "chill."
22. What is your Bedtime? Between 10PM and 11M on most nights
23. Who will respond to this email the quickest?
nobody - 'cause you all have lives...
24. Who is the person you sent this to that is least
likely to respond? my wife (because she sent it to me)
25. Who is the person that you are most curious to
see their responses: "I like you all just the same" - ever say that to your kids?
26. Favorite TV shows? All the "reality" shows, and some game shows before they get old. I would love to watch more series dramas and comedies (ya know - tv designed for adults) but it just doesn't happen with kids. Actually I watch too much as it is - probably good that I don't get to watch much series tv. The reality shows I like best are survivor, biggest loser, and yes - American idol.
27. Favorite song? I really like a lot of music in nearly all genres - I can't pick a favorite
28. What are you listening to right now? office chatter and MUZAK
29. What is your favorite color? blue
30. How many tattoos do you have? 1 (that was a brilliant idea...)
31. Do you have any pets? 2 dogs, 1 cat , and 1 fish that just won't die despite the horrible conditions it is subjected to
32. Which came first the chicken or the egg?
Help! I'm stuck in an endless loop! Ok Egg...
33. What would you like to accomplish before you
die? I'd like to know that my life improved life for others and I'd like to know that some folks came to God in part because of my influence or example, thus creating a different eternity for themselves. On a less deep note - I'd love to see Hawaii, Cancun, and the mountains of the Western US before I die.
34. How many people are you sending this e-mail to?
12
This is for fun. Hope I receive it back from you.
Read through the comments below about your friend and then make sure
you read the instructions at the bottom. Have fun!
1. What time is it? 10:50am
2. Full Name? David C Fletcher
3. What do you fear most? I'm not scared of death, per se, but I want to live a long life on Earth with my wife and kids and grandkids, etc before going home to my maker. The thought of that not happening is what's scary to me - anything that would cause me not to have that time with them, or that any of the kids would be injured in a way that would hinder their ability to live their lives to the fullest. I'm also petrified of eye wounds...
4. What do you drive? Honda Accord
5. Have you ever seen a ghost? No
6. Where were you born? Canton, Ohio
7. Ever been to Alaska? no
8. Ever been toilet papering, rolling, or decorating
trees? me? nooooooo - OK - busted - of course!
9. Croutons or Bacon bits? Croutons, easily
10. Favorite day of the week: Saturday by a long shot
11. Favorite restaurant? Don Pablos
12. Favorite Flower? Are you serious - um, colorful ones that take little to no maintenance I guess...
13. Favorite sport to watch: football - duh
14. Favorite Drink: N/A = diet pepsi A=Bud Light (beer) or any kind of tropical flavored drink with fruit juices and rum for mixed drinks...
15. Favorite Ice cream: Does it matter? Just like pizza - there's little I don't like, but if forced to pick I guess I'd choose something chocolate and/or with some kind of chocolate chunks in it. Ben and Jerry's chocolate fudge brownie rocks! But so does moose tracks!
16. Disney or Warner Brothers: Disney, easily
17. Favorite fast food restaurant: taco bell, by far
18. What color is your bedroom carpet: emerald green
19. How many times did you fail your driving exam?
1 I think - it was devastating
20. Before this one, from whom did you get your last
e-mail from? my wife
21. What do you do most often when you are bored?
It's rare that I find myself bored - that would be kinda cool - to have time that you didn't feel like you had a long list of things waiting for you, but in the event that I'm looking for something to do I guess video games and movies are my favorite ways to "chill."
22. What is your Bedtime? Between 10PM and 11M on most nights
23. Who will respond to this email the quickest?
nobody - 'cause you all have lives...
24. Who is the person you sent this to that is least
likely to respond? my wife (because she sent it to me)
25. Who is the person that you are most curious to
see their responses: "I like you all just the same" - ever say that to your kids?
26. Favorite TV shows? All the "reality" shows, and some game shows before they get old. I would love to watch more series dramas and comedies (ya know - tv designed for adults) but it just doesn't happen with kids. Actually I watch too much as it is - probably good that I don't get to watch much series tv. The reality shows I like best are survivor, biggest loser, and yes - American idol.
27. Favorite song? I really like a lot of music in nearly all genres - I can't pick a favorite
28. What are you listening to right now? office chatter and MUZAK
29. What is your favorite color? blue
30. How many tattoos do you have? 1 (that was a brilliant idea...)
31. Do you have any pets? 2 dogs, 1 cat , and 1 fish that just won't die despite the horrible conditions it is subjected to
32. Which came first the chicken or the egg?
Help! I'm stuck in an endless loop! Ok Egg...
33. What would you like to accomplish before you
die? I'd like to know that my life improved life for others and I'd like to know that some folks came to God in part because of my influence or example, thus creating a different eternity for themselves. On a less deep note - I'd love to see Hawaii, Cancun, and the mountains of the Western US before I die.
34. How many people are you sending this e-mail to?
12
Friday, January 05, 2007
wrapping up 2006
New Year’s Reflection Questions
1. Overall, was this past year a good year or bad year for you personally?
Overall, pretty good - I'm thankful for what I have. It was a challenging year, but also one in which I embraced the value of what I already have - working on contentment...
Professionally?
Stagnant
Spiritually?
Whatever the opposite of stagnant is... I feel that I've grown a lot - still much to go - but moving in the right direction...
2. What was your greatest accomplishment this past year?
Bringing little Rylie into the world.
3. What are your 3 best memories of this past year?
1. Rylie
2. Family fun at Geauga Lake
3. Golf cart rides with the girls
4. What are your 3 worst memories of this past year?
1. Calls from irrational condo rentors
2. Frustrations related to condo cleaning crew
3. Nutmeg Dying
5. What did you learn this past year?
I'm getting older... Gonna have to start being more health conscious dangit!
6. What one new fun thing did you do this past year?
Got involved in a healthy, active small group
7. Best book you read this past year?
Not necessarily the most entertaining, but the most significant book I read this year (besides the Bible of course) was Too Small to Ignore. It really opened my eyes to missions, outreach, compassion, etc.
8. What book would you like to read this next year?
9. Biggest challenge of the past year?
RiverCity Studios
10. Biggest roadblock you overcame this past year?
The early small group chaos. Also overcame a 20 seperation from my brother. While we still have not met or talked, I have gotten to know his son, and have learned a lot about my brother through him. It feels like he's not "lost" anymore.
11. What are you most looking forward to in the coming year?
If we could sell the condos it would be that, if not, I guess I'd look forward to all the fun we have in the summer.
12. What are you least looking forward to in the coming year?
Managing the condos.
13. What is your favorite time of day?
Evening - after diiner, before we all go to sleep - the quality time with the family - by far!
14. What sound do you love?
The sound of the ocean
15. What sound do you hate?
Any kind of nervous tapping, or clicking. I also hate hearing other people chew food, crack gum, etc.
16. What profession, other than your own, would you like to attempt?
I'd like to own or work for a company that invested in making the world a better, more Christ-like place.
17. What profession would you never want to try?
There's not much that I wouldn't want to try, but in general, anything that required my 24/7/365 commitment. That's probably why I'll never climb to the top of any corporate ladder. It's a choice I'm perfectly comfortable making.
18. If you could go one place next year, just for vacation, where would it be?
Disney World or any of the tropical islands
19. If you could do one thing this next year, what would it be?
OK this is 2 but sell the condos and meet my brother.
20. What one thing could you do to improve your relationship with God this next year?
Develop a better prayer life.
1. Overall, was this past year a good year or bad year for you personally?
Overall, pretty good - I'm thankful for what I have. It was a challenging year, but also one in which I embraced the value of what I already have - working on contentment...
Professionally?
Stagnant
Spiritually?
Whatever the opposite of stagnant is... I feel that I've grown a lot - still much to go - but moving in the right direction...
2. What was your greatest accomplishment this past year?
Bringing little Rylie into the world.
3. What are your 3 best memories of this past year?
1. Rylie
2. Family fun at Geauga Lake
3. Golf cart rides with the girls
4. What are your 3 worst memories of this past year?
1. Calls from irrational condo rentors
2. Frustrations related to condo cleaning crew
3. Nutmeg Dying
5. What did you learn this past year?
I'm getting older... Gonna have to start being more health conscious dangit!
6. What one new fun thing did you do this past year?
Got involved in a healthy, active small group
7. Best book you read this past year?
Not necessarily the most entertaining, but the most significant book I read this year (besides the Bible of course) was Too Small to Ignore. It really opened my eyes to missions, outreach, compassion, etc.
8. What book would you like to read this next year?
9. Biggest challenge of the past year?
RiverCity Studios
10. Biggest roadblock you overcame this past year?
The early small group chaos. Also overcame a 20 seperation from my brother. While we still have not met or talked, I have gotten to know his son, and have learned a lot about my brother through him. It feels like he's not "lost" anymore.
11. What are you most looking forward to in the coming year?
If we could sell the condos it would be that, if not, I guess I'd look forward to all the fun we have in the summer.
12. What are you least looking forward to in the coming year?
Managing the condos.
13. What is your favorite time of day?
Evening - after diiner, before we all go to sleep - the quality time with the family - by far!
14. What sound do you love?
The sound of the ocean
15. What sound do you hate?
Any kind of nervous tapping, or clicking. I also hate hearing other people chew food, crack gum, etc.
16. What profession, other than your own, would you like to attempt?
I'd like to own or work for a company that invested in making the world a better, more Christ-like place.
17. What profession would you never want to try?
There's not much that I wouldn't want to try, but in general, anything that required my 24/7/365 commitment. That's probably why I'll never climb to the top of any corporate ladder. It's a choice I'm perfectly comfortable making.
18. If you could go one place next year, just for vacation, where would it be?
Disney World or any of the tropical islands
19. If you could do one thing this next year, what would it be?
OK this is 2 but sell the condos and meet my brother.
20. What one thing could you do to improve your relationship with God this next year?
Develop a better prayer life.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Dang - I'm tired
Hola people (or me, if I'm the only one reading - lol).
So now that our RCS pilot is over, you'd think I'd be all well rested, relaxed, and having loads of time on my hands - NOT. Thanksgiving was tiring - enjoyable but tiring. Besides all of the visiting, meal doing, etc. we've since been doing the Holiday decorating.
Sometimes I hate that I can be such an idealist. I think I'm a lot like Clark Grizwold (the vacation movies). I have very grand visions of how I want things to be - especially "special moments" - holidays and such...
I have expectations and goals of having these Hallmark Holidays, and of course inevitably something skews off course - I get bummed that things are not "perfect" and soon it snowballs out of control. I end up in a bad mood because my perfect Hallmark memory day is not unfolding as planned and I inadvertantly cause it to be worse.
Hmm - I don't like the way this post is going - time to change gears.
So I've been trying to learn more about Portoviejo Ecuador, which is where our new Compassion sponsor child Ashly is from. I've also been brushing up on my Spanish. Ive wanted to get better at that for some time - sponsoring Ashly is just another reason to push me on it.
For cryin' out loud I have GOT to lose some weight! I had been taking some cholesterol meds until I found out that I wasn't reporting "debilitating muscle pain" as a side effect of taking Advicor. I'd heard that many people thought it wasn't wise to take the stuff but never really reasearched it - duh. So I'm done with that. Yet again, it points back to the fact that I just need to excercise. I don't mind exercise at all, in fact I kinda like it in cetain forms. As usual my probelm is fnding the time.
So many "good causes" battle for my time, it's really hard to choose the best mix. I'm reaminded of Andy Stanley's message of who/what are you going to cheat?
Gotta roll - l8r on...
PS - I've been able to hold onto 1st place in my college pickem poll all year. This is the last week and I'm now TIED for first. I can can just feel it slipping away...
So now that our RCS pilot is over, you'd think I'd be all well rested, relaxed, and having loads of time on my hands - NOT. Thanksgiving was tiring - enjoyable but tiring. Besides all of the visiting, meal doing, etc. we've since been doing the Holiday decorating.
Sometimes I hate that I can be such an idealist. I think I'm a lot like Clark Grizwold (the vacation movies). I have very grand visions of how I want things to be - especially "special moments" - holidays and such...
I have expectations and goals of having these Hallmark Holidays, and of course inevitably something skews off course - I get bummed that things are not "perfect" and soon it snowballs out of control. I end up in a bad mood because my perfect Hallmark memory day is not unfolding as planned and I inadvertantly cause it to be worse.
Hmm - I don't like the way this post is going - time to change gears.
So I've been trying to learn more about Portoviejo Ecuador, which is where our new Compassion sponsor child Ashly is from. I've also been brushing up on my Spanish. Ive wanted to get better at that for some time - sponsoring Ashly is just another reason to push me on it.
For cryin' out loud I have GOT to lose some weight! I had been taking some cholesterol meds until I found out that I wasn't reporting "debilitating muscle pain" as a side effect of taking Advicor. I'd heard that many people thought it wasn't wise to take the stuff but never really reasearched it - duh. So I'm done with that. Yet again, it points back to the fact that I just need to excercise. I don't mind exercise at all, in fact I kinda like it in cetain forms. As usual my probelm is fnding the time.
So many "good causes" battle for my time, it's really hard to choose the best mix. I'm reaminded of Andy Stanley's message of who/what are you going to cheat?
Gotta roll - l8r on...
PS - I've been able to hold onto 1st place in my college pickem poll all year. This is the last week and I'm now TIED for first. I can can just feel it slipping away...
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Gettin' my Blog on...
I wish I had time to do more of this. I'm not sure why - maybe to entertain myself at some point in the future by reviewing my past.
Anyhow, our third little angel was born on 10/22/06, and she IS an angel. She's probably the quietest of the 3 so far (though Logan was pretty relaxed too). Anyhow, I love 'em all more than words can capture.
We also reunited with Luke last weekend. It had been almost 20 years since I'd last known him - and he was only about 5 at that time. He's turned out to be a very friendly, well adjusted, and very successful young man. At the age of 24, he's probably seen and done more than I have. Besides managing multiple cellular sales stores in NC, he has also been heavily involved in prison ministry - the Real stuff - maximum security without escort or any real protection. He has also preached in Germany and in the Phillipines - pretty exciting stuff!
RiverCity Studios will be kicking off Saturday. I'll miss some Ohio State and Massillon playoff football - as rough as that feels, I know that RCS is an investment in the eternities of myself and the kids and families that participate so it's really a no-brainer.
I'm excited that Wess Stafford is coming to RiverTree. I'm excited about the possibilities to have dramatic impact on people globally and on building God's Kingdom. Wess' organization is the only one of it's type that I'm aware of that is doing what they do right. I've already learned from him in his book, but I look foward to learning more from him when he visits.
I hope RiverTree will turn into a church that shares his belief that long term world change and Kingdom building starts and is most significantly influenced by serious investment in children!
Anyhow, our third little angel was born on 10/22/06, and she IS an angel. She's probably the quietest of the 3 so far (though Logan was pretty relaxed too). Anyhow, I love 'em all more than words can capture.
We also reunited with Luke last weekend. It had been almost 20 years since I'd last known him - and he was only about 5 at that time. He's turned out to be a very friendly, well adjusted, and very successful young man. At the age of 24, he's probably seen and done more than I have. Besides managing multiple cellular sales stores in NC, he has also been heavily involved in prison ministry - the Real stuff - maximum security without escort or any real protection. He has also preached in Germany and in the Phillipines - pretty exciting stuff!
RiverCity Studios will be kicking off Saturday. I'll miss some Ohio State and Massillon playoff football - as rough as that feels, I know that RCS is an investment in the eternities of myself and the kids and families that participate so it's really a no-brainer.
I'm excited that Wess Stafford is coming to RiverTree. I'm excited about the possibilities to have dramatic impact on people globally and on building God's Kingdom. Wess' organization is the only one of it's type that I'm aware of that is doing what they do right. I've already learned from him in his book, but I look foward to learning more from him when he visits.
I hope RiverTree will turn into a church that shares his belief that long term world change and Kingdom building starts and is most significantly influenced by serious investment in children!
Thursday, September 14, 2006
What's up.
So for some strange reason I find myself here again - don't know why. Anyhow, Rylie should arrive in 5 or 6 weeks. I'm getting excited! I hope that we will find the right balance of time and effort so that all three girls will feel loved as much as ever. I want them all to feel the tremendous love that we have for each of them.
After a fair amount of researching, I'm confident that I found my nephew Luke's residence in NC. I sent him a letter that should arrive today. Not sure if he'll be interested in corresponding - hopefully so - but I won't force the issue. It would be a small miricle if it led to a reunion with Mike too!
River City Studios planning is finally getting out of the starting gate. Good meeting last night. God is definitely involved and giving us a huge opportunity to pilot infront of a large church audience.
Out for now...
After a fair amount of researching, I'm confident that I found my nephew Luke's residence in NC. I sent him a letter that should arrive today. Not sure if he'll be interested in corresponding - hopefully so - but I won't force the issue. It would be a small miricle if it led to a reunion with Mike too!
River City Studios planning is finally getting out of the starting gate. Good meeting last night. God is definitely involved and giving us a huge opportunity to pilot infront of a large church audience.
Out for now...
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Has it been that long?
I guess I really never got the blog thing. It takes too much time and who's listening anyway? I guess it would be a nice way to journal or do your own online scrapbook thing for when you're dead, but how would your family ever find it?
Pshaw - I'm sure somebody's got it figured out...
L8
Pshaw - I'm sure somebody's got it figured out...
L8
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Me again..
How about starting with a joke today...
Two blonds were traveling in a car to Disneyland. They were traveling along the freeway and were almost there, when they came to a sign which said "Disneyland Left". So they turned around and drove home.
Wow - I'm draggin today. Would love to go take a nap - not gonna happen. I'm afraid I don't have much to share today - trying to help mom and dad figure out what to do about selling their house. Sounds like Brenda has people interested in Erie and Auburn - we'll see how it turns out.
Maybe later - gotta roll...
Two blonds were traveling in a car to Disneyland. They were traveling along the freeway and were almost there, when they came to a sign which said "Disneyland Left". So they turned around and drove home.
Wow - I'm draggin today. Would love to go take a nap - not gonna happen. I'm afraid I don't have much to share today - trying to help mom and dad figure out what to do about selling their house. Sounds like Brenda has people interested in Erie and Auburn - we'll see how it turns out.
Maybe later - gotta roll...
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
Whoa - a busy day quickie post
I'm swamped, but didn't want to miss my daily post...
I'm pretty pleased at the idea that our little business is prolly worth 1.5M
It's hard to resist the temptation of selling, but we've got a mighty fine thing going there in Myrtle and I don't know where I'd reinvest right now anyhow.
Tonight is RiverCoty Studios - hoping we'll have an effective performance tonight.
I'm happy to be getting my crap together at the age of 33 (oh yeah - happy b-day to me). I'm finally getting a handle on our personal finances through the use of MS Money, etc. Just set up automatic pay draws for vacation, tax, kids' savings, and Christmas Club too!
Gotta run.
I'm pretty pleased at the idea that our little business is prolly worth 1.5M
It's hard to resist the temptation of selling, but we've got a mighty fine thing going there in Myrtle and I don't know where I'd reinvest right now anyhow.
Tonight is RiverCoty Studios - hoping we'll have an effective performance tonight.
I'm happy to be getting my crap together at the age of 33 (oh yeah - happy b-day to me). I'm finally getting a handle on our personal finances through the use of MS Money, etc. Just set up automatic pay draws for vacation, tax, kids' savings, and Christmas Club too!
Gotta run.
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
I'm back
I've been out of the blogsphere for a few days - did ya miss me?
What's on my mind today?
I'm bummed that Myrtle Beach property values have gone up so dramatically. It's good on one hand, as the stuff we already own is worth lots more. On the other hand, it's making it darn near impossible to justify additional purchases there for 2005.
I have 3 messages into a realtor couple in Gatlinburg, I'm waiting for them to get back from vacation to respond - may be our next place to expand. Their voicemail says that they're responding to email while away, but it doesn't seem that they are.
Local real estate is moving slower than I'd hoped. Auburn should be sold by now - Erie too. I hope Claremont goes quickly. Need to get Kennet rented quickly TO A GOOD TENANT!
Things are cool on the family front. Logan seems to be developing a relationship with the Lord - very cool!
We all had a very fun time last night talking about vacationing and other fun family activities. The conversation started around Disney World. I almost scheduled the trip, but then thought about how much more we could do by applyin that money elsewhere. So I turned it into a fun family activity. I rounded off the cost of a Disney trip to $2000 (very conservative for sure). Anyhow, each of the four of us was given $500 in play money. I told them that we could all turn in all of our money in exchange for a very fun filled 7 days at Disney OR we could brainstorm other ways to spend the money. These are some of the things we came up with...
Season Passes to Geauga Lake - as many visits as we want all summer
camping
cavern and Indian reservation tour
visit the Great Lakes Science Center
trip to Williamsburg (Logan is really into it)
trip to Hershey PA (Taylor likes, Logan not so sure)
Drive in movie
canoing
horseback riding
semi-pro baseball game
zoo
pontoon rental at portage lakes
biking the towpath
hiking
bowling
skating
dover lake park
circus
HOF parade
picnic
putt-putt golf
parks
garage saling
planetarium
host campfire story night
After "budgeting" money to all of these activities, we found that we still had almost $500 left over to consider an additional long weekend getaway. We considered a couple 3-4 day weekends to Myrtle Beach, A trip to the mountains, Niagra falls (Steph too worried about Taylor), or a coupe trips to an indoor water park during the cold months.
At any rate, the excercise really gave the kids an appreciation for money and stretching it out. Logan, who was very interested in going to Disney won't even hear about it now. She thinks we'd be fools to do that. She says it would be a much better choice to do all of these other fun (and some free) things instead.
In addition to learning about the value of money, we're teaching the kids about good behavior and helping out by offerring "tickets" for those things (we also take tickets away for bad behavior). The idea is that when they earn enough tickets they can turn them in to do something fun (I didn't want to make it a direct financial link). I think what I might do is tie these two things together by saying that mom and dad will provide the money for all the fun activities that we discussed, and that they will have to provide the good behavior to earn each activity with their tickets.
Anyhow, I'm probably a dork but we're having fun with it and it's working so what the heck.
What's on my mind today?
I'm bummed that Myrtle Beach property values have gone up so dramatically. It's good on one hand, as the stuff we already own is worth lots more. On the other hand, it's making it darn near impossible to justify additional purchases there for 2005.
I have 3 messages into a realtor couple in Gatlinburg, I'm waiting for them to get back from vacation to respond - may be our next place to expand. Their voicemail says that they're responding to email while away, but it doesn't seem that they are.
Local real estate is moving slower than I'd hoped. Auburn should be sold by now - Erie too. I hope Claremont goes quickly. Need to get Kennet rented quickly TO A GOOD TENANT!
Things are cool on the family front. Logan seems to be developing a relationship with the Lord - very cool!
We all had a very fun time last night talking about vacationing and other fun family activities. The conversation started around Disney World. I almost scheduled the trip, but then thought about how much more we could do by applyin that money elsewhere. So I turned it into a fun family activity. I rounded off the cost of a Disney trip to $2000 (very conservative for sure). Anyhow, each of the four of us was given $500 in play money. I told them that we could all turn in all of our money in exchange for a very fun filled 7 days at Disney OR we could brainstorm other ways to spend the money. These are some of the things we came up with...
Season Passes to Geauga Lake - as many visits as we want all summer
camping
cavern and Indian reservation tour
visit the Great Lakes Science Center
trip to Williamsburg (Logan is really into it)
trip to Hershey PA (Taylor likes, Logan not so sure)
Drive in movie
canoing
horseback riding
semi-pro baseball game
zoo
pontoon rental at portage lakes
biking the towpath
hiking
bowling
skating
dover lake park
circus
HOF parade
picnic
putt-putt golf
parks
garage saling
planetarium
host campfire story night
After "budgeting" money to all of these activities, we found that we still had almost $500 left over to consider an additional long weekend getaway. We considered a couple 3-4 day weekends to Myrtle Beach, A trip to the mountains, Niagra falls (Steph too worried about Taylor), or a coupe trips to an indoor water park during the cold months.
At any rate, the excercise really gave the kids an appreciation for money and stretching it out. Logan, who was very interested in going to Disney won't even hear about it now. She thinks we'd be fools to do that. She says it would be a much better choice to do all of these other fun (and some free) things instead.
In addition to learning about the value of money, we're teaching the kids about good behavior and helping out by offerring "tickets" for those things (we also take tickets away for bad behavior). The idea is that when they earn enough tickets they can turn them in to do something fun (I didn't want to make it a direct financial link). I think what I might do is tie these two things together by saying that mom and dad will provide the money for all the fun activities that we discussed, and that they will have to provide the good behavior to earn each activity with their tickets.
Anyhow, I'm probably a dork but we're having fun with it and it's working so what the heck.
Friday, February 18, 2005
I'm to friggin busy to blog
It's gonna be short and sweet today...
What's on my mind?
I'm glad that we finally got the druggie/prostitute out of our rental. Not sure if I want to sell that thing and reinvest elsewhere or deal with the headaches given that it provides a nice return...
Should be a busy weekend again. Hoping to spend some QT with the fam tonight
I really should figure out how to jazz this stupid bog up a bit...
What's on my mind?
I'm glad that we finally got the druggie/prostitute out of our rental. Not sure if I want to sell that thing and reinvest elsewhere or deal with the headaches given that it provides a nice return...
Should be a busy weekend again. Hoping to spend some QT with the fam tonight
I really should figure out how to jazz this stupid bog up a bit...
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