A Moment of High Culture for Your Friday

From the 80's classic, Electric Dreams, which taught us the real reason not to spill wine on your PC Keyboard (even if it does get you a date with Virginia Madsen)

Well, that should fix everything...

NOT.

From the Yale Daily News:

In the wake of Monday’s massacre at Virginia Tech in which a student killed 32 people, Dean of Student Affairs Betty Trachtenberg has limited the use of stage weapons in theatrical productions.In the wake of Monday’s massacre at Virginia Tech in which a student killed 32 people, Dean of Student Affairs Betty Trachtenberg has limited the use of stage weapons in theatrical productions.

If you go on to read the rest of the article, it seems as if the Drama students have a better grip on reality than their Dean. Which is a pretty scary thing to think about if Yale's Drama Dept. is anything like the one at my alma matter.

(H/T: Shamgar)

Racism and Government

Some wise words from Ron Paul on the Imus nonsense and racism as a whole. Actually, this can and should be applied to every "group" in the political/social scene today.

In fact it is the federal government more than anything else that divides us along race, class, religion, and gender lines. Government, through its taxes, restrictive regulations, corporate subsidies, racial set-asides, and welfare programs, plays far too large a role in determining who succeeds and who fails in our society. This government "benevolence" crowds out genuine goodwill between men by institutionalizing group thinking, thus making each group suspicious that others are receiving more of the government loot. This leads to resentment and hostility between us.
[snip]
Racism is simply an ugly form of collectivism, the mindset that views humans strictly as members of groups rather than individuals. Racists believe that all individuals who share superficial physical characteristics are alike: as collectivists, racists think only in terms of groups. By encouraging Americans to adopt a group mentality, the advocates of so-called "diversity" actually perpetuate racism. Their obsession with racial group identity is inherently racist.

The true antidote to racism is liberty.

Read the whole thing.

I was going somewhere with this...

You ever find yourself watching an independent movie and saying to yourself, "I totally see why no studio wanted to put money into this." Its obvious that someone went to film school, maybe studied screen writing, and they definitely had a lot of fun working out their inner demons, or whatever, but come on!

And by the time you realize this, it's too late, you have to finish this train wreck of metaphor, pop culture references, deep symbolism, self-referential irony, stop frame animation, father issues, mother issues, and sex fantasies (hopefully not too much of a mixture of the last 3).

I'm not going to identify the particular Netflix delivery that started me on this--just in case I'm being totally oblivious to some sort of cinematic genius. I'll keep my Philistine instincts to myself. :)

Don't get me wrong, I love indie movies. I more than realize that the best quality stuff in film doesn't come from the major studios. But just 'cuz something's not backed by a studio, paid for by maxed-out credit cards by some kid stuck in a dead-end job, doesn't mean it's quality. Not everyone is John Waters (PTL), Kevin Smith or Edward Burns or whoever. Too often, an indie film is just what I described above, self-indulgent tripe. Like the self-published fiction that gives self-publishing it's rep--people so impressed with themselves, so impatient to make it big, so convinced of their own abilities that they shortcut the learning process. Rather than paying their dues, learning the hard way as you, being rejected and rejected and reject, and learning from that--they teleport their way through the obstacle course, just like Kurt Wagner, leaving a sulfuric smelling cloud in their wake.

Now, I know I'm the same way--or at least could be the same way. It's knowing that I've got years of hard work ahead of me (since I'm too broke to pay for one of the shortcuts)--and even with that, there's no guarantee of success, that makes me want to click and drag my very not finished manuscript file over to the Recycle Bin, sparing the world my watered-down Jonathan Tropper-esque (with touches of Mike Gayle and Nick Hornby) male confessional. (not going to delete it...1. I keep drafts of everything, everything and 2. I literally have nothing else to occupy myself over the long haul).

I was going somewhere when I started this. Don't remember where. But it's been so long since I've posted anything beyond a picture or a link, I'm going to hit "Publish" anyway.

See? This is what happens when a perfectly rational mind is exposed to self-indulgent, self-important, non-self-aware, pretentious tripe!

Mothers, don't let your babies grow up to be indie artists.

w00t! Makin' money for me and mine now...

According to the Tax Foundation, yesterday was Tax Freedom Day for Idahoans. Which means that I've now made enough to pay my share of the local, state, national tax burden. A frightening thought indeed. But it could be worse, I could be writing this in August, I guess.

In honor of the day, here's a neat little post called, "What Won’t They Tax?." Doesn't make me feel much better about what taxes I'm forced to pay, probably won't make you feel better either, but it's good for a chuckle.

radio.blog: Boogie Wonderland

Time for a new radio.blog, and wanted to go for something a little different. So the Princess and I cooked up this new playlist today. Something to move your feet to (hopefully).

Yeah, yeah, yeah, there does seem to be a, shall we say, trend with most of the tracks coming from a certain chronological spot. You could take it as an indication of how long it's been since I've cut a rug. Or you could say I just like to kick it old skool. I'll let the reader decide which.

So, without further ado, as the Boyz in the Sink say:

Set your Phasers to Dance,
Beam us up, Captain Kirk

Fearless Prediction: AI Finals

Well, after justice (delayed) was seen on AI last night, and Lakisha survived being the first "what the--?" ejection, I've decided to go out on a limb and call it.

After Melinda is sent home from the Final 3, we're left with

vs.

This should get the comments section moving again :)

Where's a Dick Francis protag when you need one?

This is just sick. Why would anyone think this was a good idea?

Personal Crisis

It's unthinkable. Would never have predicted it. The magic is gone. There's just no appeal. No passion. No desire. What had at times been an irresistible and overpowering attraction is nothing. It's been replaced with complete and utter indifference.

I'm not in the mood for coffee.

Haven't been for days. Sure, I'll drink some--little warm up on a cold drive (this is April, I shouldn't have to scrape my windows in the morning!). Ingest some caffeine to stave off withdrawal headaches. That sort of thing. But that's it.

Some of you may think I'm overreacting by calling this a crisis. I'm not. This is really a huge thing. No molehill here. I remember my first cup of coffee--I was 10, it was in a diner in a small town in the middle of Washington where my family stopped for breakfast on our way to B.C. (if it wasn't for my Grandpa chuckling and encouraging me, I don't the waitress or my parents would've let me have it)--and I don't remember much from that age. I wrote a love poem to coffee in my poetry writing course in college (often thought of taking it out and revising...didn't bare my soul enough the first time around). I've lived on up to 3 pots a day at points in my life. And now, this?

It's enough to drive a guy to therapy. Something's clearly wrong.


On another note, why didn't I think of this first?

New Pic

Well, certainly got some interesting feedback on my last profile picture. Ranging from "where's the Harley?" to "I've seen paintings of Chinese warlords that look less authentically Chinese warlordish than you do there," to "scary...frightening."

Now the first sounds like a good idea, the second was hilarious (but many agreed with it when I repeated it), and the last was disturbing. Am trying to get a less-scary photo of me--having a hard time with that. So in the meantime, got the new pic. Gotta be the furthest thing from scary possible....right?

More from the Budding Photographer

She got a few more good shots this weekend--most, sadly, were spoiled by lighting factors. Which isn't really something you can do a lot with on a camera phone. But had to share these two:

(really, I do have text posts in the works, just haven't found the time/energy to finish them)

Budding Photographer

The Princess has shown a real interest in photography lately, and is getting some decent shots, too. While she still has some room for improvement with my camera, she's getting quite proficient with my phone. She snapped this one last night, one of her best, IMHO.

Just have to teach her to that more attractive subjects make for better pictures.

So glad Stamps are Self-Adhesive now...

'cuz the thought of licking Yoda is just disturbing.

OPENING DAY!!

It's Opening Day. Which, really, really, really should be a National Holiday. No one works, banks closed, furniture stores closed and not allowed to have cheezy sales, schools closed (well, that's a good idea...period), networks required to show games all day, etc. Sadly, that's my little dreamworld.

But it is a Newton Holiday. We're celebrating big time today. Watching ESPN's Baseball Tonight and getting ready for Devil Rays @ Yankees here in a few minutes.

w00t!

Say it just like Toy Story's Little Green Men... (link fixed)

"Ooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooohhhhhh!"

Deathly Hallows cover released (a wrap around!).

Click here for a full image, and non-US covers.

What the FRAK?!?!?!

uh, uh, wwwha, homina, homina...(sputter) (sputter) (gasp)!!!!!

Yeah, I just finished the Season 3 Finale of Battlestar. NOW I HAVE TO WAIT 'TIL '08? '08??!? Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaagh!

These people, they're killin' me! Not my favorite show on TV right now, but I cannot think of something better acted, written or produced. And they certainly lived up to their own high standards on this one.

One question: how long have they been planning what they revealed? Was it from the Get-Go? or a Recent Idea?

(if you comment, be aware there's one reader who's an ep. or two behind, so keep details vague)

No. 5 is Alive!

Title really has nothing to do with the post, just only thing I could think of involving the number five.

My princess is five years old today. I'm honestly taking it harder than I am the aging of any of the boys. She is the apple of her daddy's eye. My little Giggle Monster is the sweetest, silliest, giggliest, most exasperating, most annoying, most stubborn girl imaginable. A veritable Protestant American Princess. And I wouldn't have it any other way. And smart. Can't forget she's wicked smart. Not a "Math is Hard" bone in her body, sorry Barbie.

Sweetie, I really don't want you to grow up any more than you have. Cuz the older you get, the closer the day comes when some guy comes to take you from me. And he' won't be good enough. Not by a mile. But I promise to grade on a curve for your sake. Just don't think I'm going to be happy about it.

In the meantime, I will try to protect you from every bit of pain and trouble that I can. Will try to take care of you, make you giggle, make you feel safe and warm...will enjoy your smile and your giggle as much as I can. Basically, trying to set the bar as high as I can for the future interloper...er, I mean...

Happy birthday, beautiful. :)

What fathers can learn

Meant to say something about this the other day...

Over on the reformation21 blog a few days ago, Phil Ryken noted:

Educator Allan Shedlin has recently conducted a series of 100 interviews documenting what fathers can learn from being fathers. According to Shedlin, being a dad

-- reminds fathers of what is really important, of what needs are fundamental;
-- exposes them to a new, deeper kind of love;
-- diminishes their self-absorption;
-- demonstrates the value of asking good questions;
-- helps them appreciate the responsibilities and obligations of power;
-- reminds them of the value of playfulness, imagination, enthusiasm, and wonder; and
-- makes them laugh.

Amen. Amen. Amen. ('tho I'd have put laughter at the top, well, no...the deeper kind of love, well, no...the value of...never mind)

An unexpecedly pleasant day

Not really sure why, but basically from out of nowhere today the kids got a hankerin' to see the great-grandma, and started assaulting me with the chant of "GG! GG! GG!" Honestly and naturally, I hate to encourage that particular M.O. But, how do you say no to that demand?

Afternoon, dinner, and evening plans were then tossed--and a pleasant day was had by all. The nice thing is, the kids really don't have to actually do anything different than they'd normally do--really don't have to interact much at all with her. They just do their thing, and she watches, and has a blast. (that's not to say they want to/do/or would get away with ignoring her...just that it's low pressure). Very relaxing day for me, too. Gram's one of my favorite people in the world, always feel better about life when I spend time with her--just wish I found the time to do so more often. She's got many miles on her odometer, I only hope she's got plenty more to come.

Highlight of the day for the kids might have come when they found the picture of yours truly at approx. 6 mos. old :) Don't expect to see that reproduced here anytime soon.

It's been a few days, and I always get requests for more of these when I post 'em, so....obligatory family pics:

"Should never have let him out in the first place..."

Oh, cursed time-sucking vortex that is YouTube! While pulling up yesterday's clip, I of course, found roughly 3.2 million related videos. Thankfully was able to resist the impusle to watch them all (just barely).

But I have to share just one more bit of smegging funny material...the first minute-twenty or so of this always make me LOL (the description of death at the end is usually as effective, too). Enjoy!

"Little League baseball is a good thing 'cause it keeps the parents off the streets and it keeps the kids out of the house."

Follow up to last night's post...

It's very easy to forget the shame, the humiliation, the pride, the Three-Stooges level of comedy, the joy that is T-ball from the parent's perspective. Particulary the first practice (although the first game is far worse/better...far more everything).

The Princess did a wonderful job tonight. I was so proud. But, man, she's got a long way to go. 8-) Can't wait to watch her make the trip.

If I have to put up with Sanjaya another week...

Justice is denied again on American Idol. This year's answer to Kevin Covais and Scott Savol, Sanjaya, lives on. I can't stand it. Need to impose the 25th Ammendment to the US Constitution to Idol voting. Where's the Congressional hearings on this? They can look into steroids in MLB, but this travesty continues unchecked? What madness!!!

uhhh, anyway. While I consider switching to decaff, watch this. It occurred to me this morning that this is quite likely the perfect Sanjaya song--and one that would get him a vote from me. Next week's theme seems like the time to pull it out.
(that, and this is always worth listening to/watching)

"Baseball, it is said, is only a game. True. And the Grand Canyon is only a hole in Arizona."

For Josh Lyman, it was Election Day; for Casey McCall and Dan Rydell, it's Draft Day; for Lorelai Gilmore, it's the first snow; for Danny Tanner, it's Spring Cleaning. For me...well, it's right now.

As I type this, it's 10 days, 22 hrs, 19 min., 47 seconds 'til Opening Day. Frodo and Samwise had their first practice today. The Princess has her first (ever!) practice tomorrow.

As Bryant Gumbel said, "The other sports are just sports. Baseball is a love."

	Frodo at work (yeah, I know they're small..brought the wrong camera)
Sam makes a heck of a throw

Crais' Latest

I've set aside most of my current reading because Robert Crais just released his latest, The Watchman. I will admit that I was very nervous about this book heading into it, because this is being billed as "The First Joe Pike Novel." I just didn't think the idea would work. Instead of the focus being on his partner, Elvis Cole, this time we're treated to seeing things from Pike's POV (thankfully not told in first person, because I really don't think that'd work at all). I'm glad Parker has decided to not write a Hawk novel, Stout writing from Wolfe's perspective wouldn't have been the same (we need Archie in order to like his boss), LeHane having Patrick and Angel play second-fiddle to Bubba would just be scary.

But so far, I'm really enjoying this book. I could easily have finished it in one sitting--but am forcing myself to take a week or so to work through it. Lovin' this thing. Mr. Crais, sorry for doubting you.

Very blurry line...

A friend posted this in the chatroom today:

It is an unusual combination of religion and business. Yesterday Ford Motor Company C.E.O. Alan Mulally along with the Reverend Rick Warren announced plans to produce a special edition of Ford's popular Fiesta for 2008, called the Purpose-Driven Car.

And I had to ask in all honesty if that was from The Onion, Tom in the Box, or Lark News. My big fear was that it was from AP or Reuters.

Thankfully the answer was Tom in the Box. Read the rest!

Messy Desk = Productivity

This is one of those news stories that's more of an advertisement than anything. But that doesn't mean it's not worth reading.

"A Perfect Mess: The Hidden Benefits of Disorder," by Eric Abrahamson and David Freedman, a new book that argues neatness is overrated, costs money, wastes time and quashes creativity.

"We think that being more organized and ordered and neat is a good thing and it turns out, that's not always the case," said Freedman.

"Most of us are messy, and most of us are messy at a level that works very, very well for us," he said in an interview. "In most cases, if we got a lot neater and more organized, we would be less effective."

In your face, world!

Better, stronger, faster.

Gentlemen, we can rebuild him. We have the technology ... Better than he was before. Better, stronger, faster.

Couple weeks back, tragedy struck. My custom-built desktop computer, closest thing to a pride and joy next to these knuckleheads, stopped working. No warning, no slow breakdown, nothing like that. It was working when I went to sleep and dead when I woke up (reason #67 to never sleep again?)

After a few days of messing around with it myself, I took it to a professional. It was very hard leaving my baby behind. But if it was hard on me, it was near torture to my kids--I think Samwise was about to lose all will to live, he probably would've if he didn't have several Tamagotchis depending on him.

Turns out the motherboard fried--right under the CPU socket. Ouch. Ouch. Anyway, got it back last week, and finally got the chance to fire it up this weekend. Wow. What a difference a new motherboard/CPU can make! Same memory (need to get more), new main hard drive (need to finish transferring my data, installing programs...note to self: go get Acrobat), but it's on the way back--and definately better than ever! I didn't think my old system was slow in any way, shape or form. But MAN! I was wrong...this thing smokes!

Best of all, I'm back in the good graces of my kids. This morning Arnold walks up to me looking very excited, "You Computer Fix?" "Yeah, buddy, it's fixed." He gives me the hugest smile and wraps my legs in a bone-breaking bear hug. And he doesn't even get to use the thing! :)

Commentaries of the Day/Recent Days

Religious: Why John MacArthur Is Not "Reformed"
Sports: Yankees stopper's play a good sign
Social: Yesterday's Over the Hedge (fixed the link)
Political: (h/t: Shamgar)

The Lorica/Saint Patrick’s Breastplate

Well, it's St. Patrick's Day (incidentally, he's never been canonized by the Roman Catholic Church--so why the "St."?), so might as well post something attributed to him--this poem may date from the eighth century and so post-date Patrick. But it is traditionally assigned to him.

The other day at work, someone was working on some self-affirming phrases to post around for his own reminder--to keep him self on target. "I am not afraid," etc. They were simple (maybe simplistic), and pretty much empty of meaning. But they got me to musing about the usefulness of such things ingeneral, and if it was possible to come up with any that actually communicated more than a cliche. Didn't take me long to think of this, quite possibly my favorite poem, it sorta fits what I would like to come up with if I was try that project.

That, coupled with the date (and the fact that none of the posts I've been working on for a few days have been finished), figured I'd throw it up here. I think the translation Cahill used in his little book reads nicer, but don't have that one handy, this works for me tho.

The Lorica (a.k.a. Saint Patrick’s Breastplate)

Today I put on
a terrible strength
invoking the Trinity
confessing the Three
with faith in the One
as I face my Maker.

Today I put on the power
of Christ’s birth and baptism,
of his hanging and burial,
His resurrection, ascension,
and descent at the Judgment.

Today I put on the power
of the order of the Cherubim,
angels’ obedience,
archangels’ attendance,
in hope of ascending
to my reward;
patriarchs’ prayers,
prophets’ predictions,
apostles precepts,
confessors’ testimony,
holy virgins’ innocence
and the deeds of true men.

Today I put on
the power of Heaven,
the light of the Sun,
the radiance of the Moon,
the splendor of fire,
the fierceness of lightning,
the swiftness of wind,
the depth of the sea,
the firmness of earth
and the hardness of rock.

Today I put on
God’s strength to steer me,
God’s power to uphold me,
God’s wisdom to guide me,
God’s eye for my vision,
God’s ear for my hearing,
God’s word for my speech,
God’s hand to protect me,
God’s pathway before me,
God’s shield for my shelter,
God’s angels to guard me
from ambush of devils,
from vice’s allurements,
from traps of the flesh,
from all who wish ill,
whether distant or close,
alone or in hosts.

I summon these powers today
to take my part against every implacable power
that attacks my body and soul,
the chants of false prophets,
dark laws of the pagans,
false heretics’ laws,
entrapments of idols,
enchantments of women
or smiths or druids,
and all knowledge that poisons
man’s body or soul.

Christ guard me today
from poison, from burning,
from drowning, from hurt,
that I have my reward.

Christ beside me,
Christ before me,
Christ behind me,

Christ within me,
Christ beneath me,
Christ above me.

Christ on my right hand,
Christ on my left,

Christ where I lie,
Christ where I sit,
Christ where I rise.

Christ in the hearts of all who think of me,
Christ in the mouths of all who speak to me,
Christ in every eye that sees me,
Christ in every ear that hears me.

Today I put on
a terrible strength,
invoking the Trinity,
confessing the Three,
with faith in the One
as I face my Maker.

The Mission of Messiah

The mission of Messiah, undertaken in the covenant of eternity, was not merely that of a teaching Prophet and an atoning Priest, but of a ruling King as well. His work was not to enunciate simply a doctrine concerning God and man’s relations to God, as some Socrates, for the founding of a school; nor even merely to atone for sinners as a ministering priest at the altar; it was, as the result of all, and the reward of all, to found a community, to organize a government, and administer therein as a perpetual king.

It will be perceived, therefore, that the primary and fundamental conception of the Church of God has its germinal source far back in the purpose of God, and that the Church naturally and necessarily grows out of the very form and mode of the scheme of redemption for sinners, as it lay in the Infinite Mind. As the purpose was to redeem not only elect sinners, but a body of elect sinners,-an organic body with all its parts related to each other, and the Mediator himself the head thereof,-it is manifest that in that purpose is involved ideally the Church as an elect portion of the race under the Headship of the Messiah, and distinct from another and reprobate portion of the human family.

- Stuart Robinson

Follow Up on Godfrey

As promised, the recent Robert Godfrey Lecture on Worship and the Q & A time.

Quote of the Day - March 13, 2007

All that has transpired under the reign of grace and under the administration of Providence, since the world began, is conceived of as simply the gradual manifestation in time of the purpose formed from eternity.* The revelation which God has made of himself in his word is but the record of the execution of his Eternal Decree, and the publication to the world in time of the proceedings had in the counsels of eternity. The revelation of Himself experimentally to the souls of his people is but the manifestation of the love wherewith he loved them before the world began. Every syllable of truth revealed in the Scriptures is conceived of as having its significance and its importance determined by its relation to the purpose previously existing in the Divine Mind; so that the doctrine of the Decree and Predestination of God is not so much a doctrine of Calvinism—one distinct truth in a system of truth—as a mode of conceiving and setting forth all the doctrines which make up revealed theology.

- Stuart Robinson

* Eph. 1:4-12, 3:9-11; Rom. 8:28-33; John 17:2-5.

Attempted Exorcism

Okay this song is stuck in my head. More than stuck. Plastered. Sealed. Cemented. Welded.

This afternoon, after we hop in the van, I pop in the latest Switchfoot (probably their strongest album, but I personally like The Beautiful Letdown more), and right away I hear the Princess singing along. Track 1 ends, she asks for it again. So I comply. And again. And again. Before long everyone is shouting/singing along--pretty sure I heard Arnold get out, "We found out the hype won't get you through"--and half a beat after the song ends, a chorus of "Again!" would ring out.

So I'm now going to be hearing this song for the next decade in everything I do...(sung it 2x while typing this up)...hoping this will help purge it.

And if it doesn't...at least the kids'll have something to watch.

Public Service Moment...

looked around this here "IntraWeb" thingy for the source/author of this...didn't get anywhere. But thought these tips were handy enough I had to make sure my readers were able to benefit from the wisdom:

7 Amazing Simple Home Remedies

1. A mouse trap, placed on top of your alarm clock, will prevent you from rolling over and going back to sleep after you hit the snooze button.

2. If you have a bad cough, take a large dose of laxatives, then you will be afraid to cough.

3. Clumsy? Avoid cutting yourself while slicing vegetables by getting someone else to hold them while you chop away.

4. Avoid arguments with the Mrs. about lifting the toilet seat by simply using the sink.

5. For high blood pressure sufferers: simply cut yourself and bleed for a few minutes, thus reducing the pressure in your veins. Remember to use a timer.

6. Have a bad headache? Smash your thumb with a hammer and you will forget about the headache.

7. Sometimes, we just need to remember what the rules of life really are: You only need two tools: WD-40 and Duct Tape.

If it doesn't move and should, use the WD-40. If it shouldn't move and does, use the duct tape.

Some thoughts from Owen on the Ways Scripture speaks for God

from his commentary on Heb. 12:5:

...[in the] exhortation, "Which speaketh unto you as unto children," there are sundry things very remarkable.

(1.) It is said to speak. The Scripture is not a dumb and silent letter, as some have blasphemed. It hath a voice in it,--the voice of God himself. And speaking is frequently ascribed unto it, John 7:42, 19:37; Romans 4:3, 9:17, 10:11; Galatians 4:30; James 4:5, And if we hear not the voice of God in it continually, it is because of our unbelief, Hebrews 3:7,15.

(2.) The word which was spoken so long before by Solomon unto the church in his generation, is said to be spoken unto these Hebrews For the Holy Ghost is always present in the word of the Scripture, and speaks in it equally and alike unto the church in all ages. He doth in it speak as immediately unto us as if we were the first and only persons unto whom he spake. And this should teach us with what reverence we ought to attend unto the Scripture, namely, as unto the way and means whereby God himself speaks directly unto us.

(3.) The word here used is peculiar, and in this only place applied unto the speaking of the Scripture. Dialegetai,-- it "argues," it "pleads," it maintains a holy conference with us It presseth the mind and will of God upon us. And we shall find the force of its arguing, if we keep it not off by our unbelief.

Thought of the Day

God's patience is one of the most profound proofs of His Sovereignty.

-- William Still

Yankee Bits...

from one of my favorite blogs (which I'm glad to have an excuse to start reading again...it was a long winter):

1. Carl Pavano pitched two innings yesterday. Quick, trade him.
2. Mariano mows ‘em down
   The great Mariano Rivera made his spring debut just now. Here is how it went:
   
   Brent Cleven: Struck out swinging on a 1-2 cutter.
   
   Brandon Inge: Struck out swinging on a 3-2 cutter.
   
   Sean Casey: Grounded to first on the first pitch.
   
   Mo tossed 13 pitches, nine for strikes. Thanks for coming, drive home safely.

ahhh, Peter...good to have you back.

Movin' On

I'd like to think I'd have noticed this in my iTunes newsletter (it's weekly arrival is almost as tempting--but cheaper--as the Solid Ground Books "covet-o-rama" email), but you never know, so props to Julie for pointing out to me that they'd released Elliot Yamin's first single, "Movin' On." (oh, and Julie--lovin' Cities)

I'd remembered that I'd liked him last year, but not really why. Now I do. This single, and the other peaks at his album over at his myspace page, prove that he was the best vocalist from last year's Idol batch. Not my style of music, but great to listen to. Very relaxing. Now, frankly, I don't see the Elliott as really embodying these lyrics, but he pulls it off.

Anyway, just a quick recommendation...

Worship Workshop

Had the distinct pleasure of being present for a lecture on the "non controversial" and "easy" topic of Worship today given by W. Robert Godfrey. It's supposed to show up online pretty soon, will post the link when it does. Obviously, in one lecture he couldn't get very deep. But what he said was very worthwhile. He made a lot of points I've tried to make lately in conversations with various people, but in a winsome, comprehensive and more logical manner than I've pulled off. So I'm going to have to memorize his talk and steal like crazy :)

In describing how the church's understanding of worship has changed, Godfrey described a recent visit to a Presbyterian church in San Diego. He said that looking down the center of the 'sanctuary' towards the front of the room, everything that was in that line of vision would've been hated by Calvin. Not that Calvin is the be-all and end-all of Christian--or even Reformed--thought. But for a "conservative" Presbyterian church to be that thoroughly opposite to what the Reformed have historically understood was proper says a lot about how things have changed, and how it should at least give us pause for reflection.

(for the record, when you listen to the lecture...I'm with Calvin on that one)

Three Years Down...

Wow...three years already. Arnold, my boy, Frodo and Sam have taught me just about everything I know about being a dad (Frodo by being first, Sam by being totally different than Frodo), but you've taught me a lot more about life than just about anything and anyone else. I learned what fear can really feel and taste like when you went back to the hospital on Day 3--I learned how to hold on by faith to our Shepherd's rod and staff from that, too. And in the aftermath, I learned how tenous our grip on life really is--and how precious life can be. Now, as a result of that, I've treated you with kid-gloves, and let you get away with things that your siblings never would've. You and I will pay the price for that in years to come, but I'm not going to change my approach. (I have, however, started saving for your therapists)

But 'til then, you are the gentlest, the sweetest person I've ever met. I am a better person because of your presence in my life. God has truly blessed me through you, and I pray those blessings keep coming for many, many years. I love you, little buddy. Happy birthday.


He was being insufferably cute last weekend, so some bonus pics:

	really not sure how this got to be his "super happy smile," but am learning that when I get this I've done very good :)

What kind of difference do glasses make, really?

BEFORE

AFTER

Yeah, Frodo got his first pair of glasses today, his father's genes run too strong in him. You gotta admit looking at the above pictures...it's easier to understand how Lois, Jimmy and Perry never picked up on anything.

Easing the pain

For those who are feeling the void left by the demise/hiatus of Purgatorio, you should add Tom in the Box to your RSS feeds/blogroll/bookmarks. Today's post alone should justify that action: Exclusive! James White Reported to Have Shaved Head Bald

Noise-y Kids

The kids liked this one so much I thought I'd throw it up. Taken this last Lord's Day. It was one of those mornings that makes you wonder if your life has been taken over by an ABC TGiF show. Somehow I made it through without severe injury to my body or my pride, and we ended up with these results:

A little improvement

This morning I had the great priviledge of witnessing the baptism of a dear friend's daughter. It was also the first time I'd seen it done in a church from the Dutch Reformed tradition. Not that the ceremony was much different--just done on a cheaper budget [rim shot]. Now, I'm not that much on set forms, but one strength in them is that you are guaranteed some well-thought-out words with them. I thought that the form used this morning was particularly good, and really wished I had a copy of the 3rd point to hand out to my baptistic friends (alas...cannot find it online).

But the important thing is that me and my kids got another glimpse of the infinite goodness of God, in appointing an initiating ordinance, irreversibly sealing all the blessings of the covenant to the elect seed.

Well, actually, that was of secondary importance. The important thing is that the blessings of the covenant were irreversibly sealed to that precious little girl.

Which meant that today was the day for us all to perform the needful but much neglected duty of improving our baptism.

I checked with some friends, and the "Reformed" Baptists have no concept of this--and even Presbyterians rarely pay attention to it. So should probably give a quick explanation about how one does that:

I. By serious and thankful consideration of
A. the nature of baptism
B. the ends for which Christ instituted baptism
C. the privileges and benefits conferred and sealed in baptism
D. our solemn vow made in baptism

II. By being humbled for
A. our sinful defilement
B. our falling short of, and walking contrary to, the grace of baptism, and our engagements

III. By growing up to assurance of
A. pardon of sin
B. of all other blessings sealed to us in baptism

IV. By drawing strength from the death and resurrection of Christ, into whom we are baptized
A. for the mortifying of sin
B. for the quickening of grace

V. By endeavoring to
A. live by faith
B. live in holiness and righteousness, as those that have therein given up their names to Christ
C. walk in brotherly love, as being baptized by the same Spirit into one body

...hefty-sized list, but at least it gave me osmething to do for the afternoon :)

Pfui...

Can't get the JavaScripts to work...oh well.

Did update the radio.blog. This is the playlist I've been using while doing some writing lately. And despite what it sounds like, the writing has been fairly upbeat, hopefully even funny. Gotta tap into this to get to the funny. Upbeat, rocky songs are better for serious or nonfiction stuff for me. Doesn't make sense. Never claimed it would. :)

Checkin' In

Yeah, been too long. Sorry. Have some things to say, still working on how to say them. Expect some cosmetic updates today--new links, removed links, a java script or two just for fun...maybe a new radio.blog (have 2 playlists that I'm working with...question is, which gets done first?)

Thank you, Stephen Pastis for this.

Oh, before I forget...gotta share this--got the ThinkGeek newsletter today. I so need one of these for those rare times when I conquer insomnia.

You can't take the sky from me

how shiny are the results of this test?

You scored as Serenity (Firefly). You like to live your own way and don’t enjoy when anyone but a friend tries to tell you should do different. Now if only the Reavers would quit trying to skin you. Serenity (Firefly) 81% Babylon 5 (Babylon 5) 75% Deep Space Nine (Star Trek) 63% Galactica (Battlestar: Galactica) 63% Millennium Falcon (Star Wars) 50% Nebuchadnezzar (The Matrix) 50% Enterprise D (Star Trek) 44% Bebop (Cowboy Bebop) 38% FBI's X-Files Division (The X-Files) 38% Moya (Farscape) 38% SG-1 (Stargate) 31% Andromeda Ascendant (Andromeda) 25% Your Ultimate Sci-Fi Profile II: which sci-fi crew would you best fit in? (pics) created with QuizFarm.com

(H/T: The Crusty Curmudgeon)

whoa...

If you were sitting here with me, you'd have been able to hear my perfect impression of Keanu Reeves' "whoa" when I saw this.

There's 1000 words worth of atheistic refutation...

1 Part Gadget, 1 Part Axel F, 2 parts Flutist/Flautist with wayyyyyy too much time on his hands

Ladies and Gentlemen, I give you Greg Pattillo. If I'd have known you could do this with a flute, I'd have avoided the sax (flutes being so much easier to carry when you're in 5th grade)

(his Super Mario Bros and Sesame Street Theme shouldn't be missed either)

Quote of the Day

When an eagle is happy in an iron cage, when a sheep is happy in water, when an owl is happy in the blaze of the noonday sun, when a fish is happy on dry land - then, and not till then, will I admit that the unsanctified man could be happy in heaven.

- J. C. Ryle

Summer's on the way...

been so distracted by fluff and nonsense in my life that I didn't even know that Feb. 13th was reporting day in Tampa for Yankee pitchers and catchers!

I've got to work on my priorities...

Welcome back to work Wang, Moose, Mo, T.J., Jorge... Welcome home Andy! “It’s like Groundhog Day,” he said. “Not much has changed.” [sniff, sniff...we missed ya man] and goodbye Old Unit! Now just shed that workman's comp claim taking up roster space, Carl "I gots another Owie" Pavano....

One of My Best Days

Remember that scene in City Slickers where Mitch, Phil, and Ed are riding along talking about their Best Days? You ever played that? Had a lot of insomnia lately, and have been doing that while staring at the ceiling. Come up with a list of nominees, not sure which is #1. This is the 11th Anniversary of a strong contender for the title.

I've given abbreviated versions of the tale before (here and here). But a little more detail tonight, because I've been thinking about it a lot and have some time to kill. That afternoon I'd been in the dorm computer lab typing out a draft letter to the father of the girl I was courting, asking for her hand. Unbeknownst to me, she came up behind me to surprise me--and surprise me she did! I hadn't been in the workplace much with computers, so my Alt-Tab skills were non-existent, and it took me roughly an eon to get Word minimized. We chatted briefly and the whole time I was thinking, "How much did she read? Of course she read the whole thing. So much for surprise. What is she thinking? What do I do now?" Later she told me she hadn't seen a thing, but in the end, I'm glad I didn't know that ('tho at the time it would've been golden to know).

That train of thought didn't leave me for a couple of hours, I finally give up. Toss out my timeline, borrow a phone card from someone, and after a call to information, have one of the scariest phone conversations of my life with her father. Having secured his approval, I headed up to her place. I remember being very nervous, which sorta goes without saying, I guess. I was pretty confident I'd get a yes, but it was the act of asking that made me worry the most. That, and what it all meant--the weight of the future. But what I would get out of the act--the hand, the love of the woman of my dreams, made it worth it. And the future? Eh, I'd go into it with one of my best friends with me (it wouldn't take long before I dropped the "one of" modifier).

She was sitting on a couch against the wall facing the TV, I was sitting a few feet away on the loveseat-type thing that was the "L" leg off of the other. Wasn't exactly the typical-Hollywood on bended knee type situation, but I figured it was now or never, and set to mustering up confidence, wit, nerves, and everything else. Jeopardy was over, and I asked her if she was doing anything for the next 60-70 years, 'cuz if not, I was hoping she'd marry me. She thankfully said yes, and I honestly don't think I'd known what joy was before that moment.

And then we kissed for the first time. And she played me what I always think of as our song, Alanis' "Head Over Feet"--still think of that moment every time I hear that song. And the rest of the evening was taken up with my all-time favorite activity. Spending time together.

There ya go, one of my Best Days.

Again, that was 11 years ago. Making 49-59 years left. I should've asked for more, 'cuz that's nowhere near enough time to spend with her. The eleven years since haven't been a bed of roses for sure, been far more lean and bad times then I'd ever wanted. But I've been in the best company possible.

Thanks for saying yes, dear.

Stumbled on to this old scan the other day. This is actually the following Saturday (I think the 13th was a Tuesday that year--maybe a Monday), but it's as close to the day as I have. Not the most flattering pic of me--I'd shaved that day, because she was curious what I looked like sans beard. Think it took 5 seconds for her to tell me to grow it back :) If it weren't for Steinbrenner-esque standards at the McDonald's I worked at, this would've been the last time I'd ever shaved it. But man...look at her.

A dissenting note

Hope this doesn't clash too horribly with yesterday's post. But that one was serious, this is for fun. I meant that one. This just made me smile as I read the words of these particular old curmudgeons.

'You shouldn't take liefe so seriously,' said Bryant. 'Think of it like pipe tobacco. It's dark, it's bitter, and it finally destroys you, but it provides a few moments of heaven on the tongue.'

'And it can make you ill,' snapped Finch.

--Christopher Fowler
Ten Second Staircase

Hey, Crafty-types!

(and I'm not necc. looking for crafty like a fox)

If you were going to attempt to attach a pipe cleaner to a rock, what type of bonding agent would you use? Not surprisingly trusty old Elmer's School Glue doesn't do the trick.

What is our Life for?

What's life all about? What's it mean to be really pro-life? The Westminster Divines gave a pretty decent answer in their application of Scripture in the Larger Catechsim Q. 134-136. Sadly, our culture--and the Church to a great extent--doesn't agree with much of that wisdom. So sermons like this one have to be preached still today--and we need more of them.

And yet, what is our life for? It's not for convenience. It's not for luxury. It's not for joy. It is not for happiness, but for holiness. To grow in our relationship to God."

--Glenn Ferrell
Sovereign Redeemer Presbyterian Church,
"The LORD and Giver of Life", Feb. 4, 2007

What David (and we) really ask...

It'd really help if you can "hear" Sinclair Ferguson reading this quotation. If you haven't listened to enough/any of him, go for a soft Scottish accent. Trust me. Protestant Theology needs a Scottish accent to be fully appreciated.

Discussing Ps. 51:

There is one final court of appeal, beyond God's mercy, greater even than his "great compassion." It is God's "unfailing love" (v.1).

The word David uses is "covenant-love" (chesedh). It is the love to which God has committed himself, even obligated himself, in his covenant promise to his people.

It is as though David were saying: "O God, obligate yourself to love me with a love that will save me from my guilt." He scarcely knew what he was asking for.

Do we, when we ask for the forgiveness of sins?



In asking for "mercy," David, you are asking that GOd will show it to you, but withdraw it from Jesus.

In asking to experience God's "unfailing love," you are asking that Jesus will feel it has been removed.

In asking to taste God's "great compassion," you are asking him to refuse it to Jesus as he dies on the cross.

In asking God to "blot out" your transgressions, you are asking that they will be obliterated by the blood of Jesus.

In asking to be washed, you are asking that the filth of your sin will overwhelm Jesus like a flood.

In asking to know the joy of salvation, you are asking that Jesus will be a Man of Sorrows, familiar with grief.

In asking to be saved from bloodguilt, you are asking that in your place Jesus will be treated as though he were guilty.

In asking that your lips will be opened in praise, you are asking that Jesus will be silenced, as a sheep before her shearers is dumb.

In asking that God will hide his face from your sins, you are asking that he will hide his face from Jesus.

In asking that you will not be cast out of God's presence, you are asking that Jesus will be cast out into outer darkness instead.

--Sinclair Ferguson

At first, this bothered me

which they describe as:

As Eustace Scrubb, you may have a bit of a short fuse, but ultimately you can be caring and loyal. You also have a thing for girls called Jill.

...the more I think about it, the more I'm okay with it. For years I've thought if that scene with Aslan and the Dragon isn't my life...I don't know what is.

"My Name is Steven, How the H*ll are You?"

Quite possibly my all time favorite comedy performance. A friend taped this off of Showtime or HBO or whatever waaaaaay back. I have a 2nd generation copy of that in a box somewhere. Have been searching for it in a better format for a decade or so. This isn't the better format...but it's something I can watch.

Over. And Over. And Over. And Over.

Especially when I have deadlines looming. :)

Steven Banks Home Entertainment Center:

(click on the video to be taken to YouTube to watch the other parts)

Cassie, I'm sorry. Really. I know nothing is going to get accomplished in your home tonight. Enjoy, Al!

(H/T: MDH)

Today's Funny Pages...

Prickley City nails it (tho it seems that joke could be recycled every 4 years...I just don't remember anyone doing it)
Wally shows why he's a front-runnerh in my mentor search.

The benefit of waking up hoarser than Secretariat

...it's about the only time that you get to go up an octave to sing along with Josh Turner on the radio.

Quote of the Day

Sadly, the biblical teaching on the sovereignty of God in his providence has too often been a bone of contention for Christians when it was revealed chiefly as a means of encouragement. It is vital for us to be familiar with it if, like David, Daniel, and his companions, we are to stand in days when our circumstances are liable to overwhelm us.

--Sinclair Ferguson

Suddenly, I couldn't care less about the new WW movie

Whedon's off the project. Never been a big WW fan, anyway--DC has better female characters to focus on. Sure she's one of the Big 3, but the lamest of the batch. With the Master gone, who cares about this?

Focusing all my geek energy at Favreau's Iron Man :)

Do you really believe this?

Here Jesus' description of himself as the Good Shepherd will help us. Our natural instinct is to suspect that if he restores us at all it Will be grudgingly; it must be a necessary but irritating inconvenience for him.

But Christ does not come to us officiously; he comes willingly and graciously to restore us. Recall what he said to those who "muttered" that "this man welcomes sinners":

Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Does he not leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep' (Luke 15:4-6, italics added).

This is a parable; but the Shepherd's joy is literal. Do you really believe that?

--Sinclair Ferguson

New Blogger

well, blogger made me switch over to the "new blogger" format today. Doing so kinda messed things up in FireFox--can't log in using that anymore. So am having to update things using [shudder]IE 7[shudder].

Have added some tags to the most recent 50 posts or so, may do some more of that. Plus some other template tweaks.

Pop Music & Aging

It's nine-thirty A.M., still theoretically rush hour, but I'll be driving north, against traffic. Keeping one eye on the road, I reach absently into the messy heap of CDs scattered on the seat beside me, an eclectic assortment sypmomatic of a vague and misguided effort to transcend my actual age. It's not necessarily that I'm afraid of aging; I just refuse to do it alone. And so, at thirty-four, I'm listening to Everclear, Blink 182, Dashboard Confessional, Foo Fighters, and a host of other contemporary stuff. My audio Rogaine. I've somehow managed to beat the odds and keep a full head of hair, but that's really beside the point. We're all going bald somewhere.

Besides, I come from the eighties, a neon, hair-sprayed decade from which very little music made it out alive. When was the last time you heard Men at Work, Thompson Twins, or Alphaville on a mainstream radio station? The music from my youth has aged poorly and is now like a joke out of context. You had to be there.

- Jonathan Tropper, The Book of Joe

Other than line about full head of hair, that could be me. That could be any number of my friends, too. Just a couple nice paragraphs from a gorgeous book...

Resumé or "...and I can take or leave it if I please."

Inspired by that scene in The Shawshank Redemption, my coworker asks me if I'd ever consider hanging myself--she couldn't handle the pain--I had to agree that hanging was flat out for me--despite my merit badge in 1988, my knot tying skills leave a lot to be desired, and I couldn't trust it to hold. Sides, during the year I came closest, the pipes that ran 6" below my dorm room's ceiling level just didn't look strong enough to hold, and there were no other viable options. She looked at me kinda strange for thinking of that, so I assured her that, yeah, there was a period in my life where I evaluated the various options. Which made her look at me even stranger.

I sat there later trying to remember the various reasons I'd eliminated assorted methods of offing myself. I think I was able to reconstruct the list, but, to be truthful to you, faithful reader, I may have substituted my fears/dreads/issues of the present time.

• Slitting the wrists--ouch, just flat out, ouch. And blood...shudder. Even hearing about bleeding, thinking about bleeding makes my head swim and my toes curl. And not just a little curl, almost right through the bottom of my feed curl. Odds are, I'd get too distracted with the toes and swimming head to finish the job,and it'd just result in an embarrassing mess (and foot injury).
• Self-inflicted gunshot wound. Couple problems with this: 1. I don't own a gun. Yes, a too-right-wing for the GOP Idahoan, and I don't own a gun--I can't afford one. This was especially true in college (when I compiled this list); 2. It's been so long since I've shot on a regular basis, not sure I can trust my aim...and then it comes to this, you gotta be sure of your shot--short range or no.
• Freezing to death. Nice, easy, peaceful. Just could never think of a convenient place to do it. Or it'd be too warm.
• Drowning. Feh. Just too easy to lift the head up.
• Pills. Just never have enough around to do the job. Hate pills anyway. Don't even take them when I need to. Just wouldn't work out.
• Jumping off of bridge/cliff/roof. Words cannot express what effect heights/the fear of falling have on me. Would literally be too paralyzed to take the first step.
• Leaving the car running in a closed garage. Again, this was college--I parked in the dorm's lot.

Ultimately, the thing that kept me going then (and has continued to at times) is curiosity /stubbornness. It's like watching a movie that you're not sure is worth the time/effort, but you keep wondering how/if the director's going to pull it off. Well, that, and a realization of the preciousness of human life and the contents of the 6th commandment--tho when you're thinking about punching your own ticket, those considerations don't usually come into play.

Naturally, this makes me think of one of my favorite Dorothy Parker poems:

Resumé

Razors pain you;
Rivers are damp;
Acids stain you;
And drugs cause cramp.
Guns aren't lawful;
Nooses give;
Gas smells awful;
You might as well live.

This of course illustrates why in an Ideal World, I'd have lived at the same time as she did, I'd have met Ms. Parker and fallen head over heals for her--although even in a perfect world I can't see myself as witty or charming to be anything other than a dalliance for an evening or two for her. Following which, I'd pine for her for at least months on end, whilst eating copious amounts of pizza and junk food to mask the pain...which, come to think of it, is pretty much what I spent 1993 doing.

hey Paul

Since I'm not sure which Paul left a comment last week, I sent emails to every Paul I have an address for.

If you didn't get it, give me a last name so I can call :)

What they don't tell you in Philosophy 101

Over the Hedge gets the work week started on the right foot for me today.

Quote of the Day

The best men are severe to themselves, and tender over others.

- Richard Sibbes

one day, if God is gracious...one day....

Shout Out

Can't leave comments over at Observations from the Roof of a Building, so I'll say my congratulations to the quiver-fillers here. God's richest (covenant) blessings upon you (and your household)!

The Last Kiss

One danger of an actor being really good in one type of role is that everyone expects to see him do only that kind of role. Twenty years ago (or so) the thought of Robin Williams doing drama was odd. Now the idea of Robin Williams doing a movie that isn't sappy is odd. The same definately applies to Zach Braff, who's insanely fantastic as J. D. on Scrubs--you just expect him to be funny all the time. Now, anyone who watched even five minutes of Garden State learned better. But if you weren't convinced that 1. he doesn't have to be funny all the time and 2. non-funny Braff is just as good...well, that's where The Last Kiss comes in. For those who have to have funny Braff in their life, never fear...Fast Track, er, The Ex.

Anyway, this is one of the bleakest films I've seen in recent months (years?). Basically this is a story about couples--we have a circle of late 20's/early 30's friends, plus one of the friend's parents. And within the first 30 or so minutes of the film each and every couple stops being a couple (one started off no longer a couple) or the seeds are planted for them to stop being a couple. The characters are not charicatures. The conflicts are real, believable, and painful. It's hard to muster up much sympathy for most of these people (I loathed Casey Affleck's character), most of whom are only the victims of their own pettiness. There is hope in the end--and I do mean end. But even that hope doesn't present itself in typical Hollywood happily-ever-fashion, and one can't help but wonder how long it'll last following the credits.

The message seems to be that life is hard, relationships are harder. Love hurts. Love hurts a lot. And there's not much you can do about it.

The performances are compelling--which is saying something when you stop and think that 2 main characters come from Scrubs and The OC. The script, directing, music, everything was well, well done. Wonderfully made movie. But on the whole, it's a movie I wouldn't want to watch again--and am not so sure how much I wanted to the first time. It's like a big piece of liver presented in a way to make Iron Chef America judges swoon.

An aside: The most important thing I carried away from this film was something to do with another movie. I've never seen Casey Affleck do much before. Now I have. He is so not Patrick Kenzie. Nor do I think he's capable of getting it. Bad casting. Bad grasp of the character on the director/writer's part. Questionable director in the first place. This cannot be good for Gone Baby, Gone a novel that deserves so, so much more.

New Addition

I'll be the first to admit, I'm not a huge dog person. And there's plenty of evidence to support that. But there's always been a dog around in my life--there was Luke, my collie/nanny for the first 3 years of my life; Benji, the epileptic terrier-mix from elementary school; Sushi, the terrier-spitz we got a few years later; Sammy, who served as my mother's excitable Samoyed companion for a few years, before she was given to my niece so my mother could get Joli, the hyper-terrier focus of empty-nest mothering energy.

So it was always expected I'd get a dog eventually, and for the last couple of months, it seemed like now was a better option than later. My kids are the right age (mostly), I'm feeling like a near-constant companion sounds reassuring, and, well, the weight of expectation... So I start keeping my eyes open, nothing really jumped out at me. So I start casually looking a couple weeks ago.

INTERRUPTION FOR PARENTING TIP: Don't let your kids find you looking around at a place like PetFinder unless you're serious about it. Very. And by serious, I mean, doing it soon.

Anyhow, the casual looking, the research into breeds, and the kids finding me doing the above led me "adopting" this here basset hound, named Grant. So far, he's slipped into things very well. Very laid-back, easy going.

He's very content to plod along with me as I walk, or sit and do nothing as I read or sleep when I sleep. Nearly perfect. About the only conflict we've had thus far is over who all is allowed in the driver's seat of my van--particularly while I'm driving.

The kids love him. Samwise in particular has found a bosom companion, and would no doubt pick the hound over the dad if he had to. All four have really gotten into caring for our four-legged friend. If I'm in another room (making copies for school or something, for example), I'll have almost minute-by-minute reports from various children. Even Arnold is trying...he has taken to opening the sliding glass door to let the dog out at random (and generally not helpful) times. Arnold won't pet him unless he can do so from the comfort of his daddy's lap, but he's very excited to watch him do whatever from the safe distance of 12'-18".

Now, the name is a bit of a bother. First of all, Grant just doesn't seem to match him. You'd also like to have some sort of input into the moniker of your pet, y'know? And then there's the whole Appomattox thing (hey! I go to school in SC fer crying out loud!).... So I was looking around for something, while dreading trying to convince the pooch that his name isn't Grant now.

Faced with naming a basset hound, any male of my generation is going to reflexively say "Flash." And for awhile, that seemed like a really strong contender (I can still do a spot-on Roscoe P. Coltrane impression that I perfected in 4th grade). Other nominees were:

• Stonewall, or maybe Jackson (clearly just a reaction to Grant).
• Beauregard (in the end, a very close 3rd)
• Or Baxter the BassetFred! as in Fred Bassit! That was a great comic!
• Clyde
• Dabney (semi-Grant reaction, Southern Presbyterian; looks like Dabney Coleman
• Rufus

In the end tho, it was my pastor's suggestion that won the day. Guerrant, for Edward O. Guerrant--a soldier in the War Between the States, who went on to be come a physician, and then a Presbyterian minister. He apparently preached and planted churches in several locations in Kentucky, was involved in evangelism to native tribes, as well. Why go for something so arcane? Well, if you have to ask, you clearly don't know me that well. :)

Ultimately I decided on that name, for it because it is easy to make the dog (and the kids) understand the name change, and you have the reference obscure piece of Presbyterian history--always a plus.

Now the cute kid pictures will always, always, outnumber the cute dog pics. But every now and then, something will slip in.

Huh. Who'd have guessed?

(H/T: The Taught and Stable Librarian)

Can't complain too much with the top result...it's the rest that bother me. CEV? NWT?!?!?!

You scored as NASB - New American Standard Bible. You are intelligent, responsible, and understanding. You strive to do your best possible in all areas of life and are generally quite successful. You do not mind being different and sometimes taking risks, but you simultaneously find no virtue in completely doing away with the past. NASB - New American Standard Bible 70% KJV - King James Version 30% NRSV - New Revised Standard Version 25% CEV - Contemporary English Version 15% NWT - New World Translation 15% What version of the Bible are you? created with QuizFarm.com

Posted without Comment

(H/T: kletois)

THIEVES who stole global positioning systems (GPS) from a warehouse in New York state were apprehended after authorities activated the tracking devices to locate them.

The rest of the story...

When You Can't Think of Anything to Say....

YouTube comes through!

Carlos Santana and POD. What a combo!!

Lose a few hours on YouTube...

Is there a greater time-sink in existence right now than YouTube? It's like a giant batch of virtual Lighting Sand..sucks you in and can't get you out.

And you just don't care...which is probably the worst part about it.

VideoCrack.

Anyhow, here's a couple things to get you kick-started in time-wasting.

Just 'cuz.


Hilarious. (h/t Peter David)

Angels are in the details, too

Last night at work, we were pleased to discover that someone had left an open bag of Tootsie-Roll Tootsie Pops in the staff room. Simple little thing like that brightened things for our shift. Sometimes it's surprising how easily a mood can be boosted, isn't it?

TheChoir.Radio.Blog

Well, it's taken me 15 days to come up with a theme for the return of radio.blog--thanks for all the input oh ye who say you appreciate it :P

Playing around in iTunes today I found myself listening to a lot of The Choir, et voila! A theme! Only problem with something like this is that I had to trim the playlist down to something manageable--which was really hard. If I had the space and you had the time, it'd have been something like 50 tracks. Instead I give you 11. You're welcome.

In the summer of '91 I was doing some temp data entry stuff for the Fish & Game dept, and one of the other ladies on the temp crew and I started talking music one night--she was into Point of Grace and the like, I was more Petra/Bloodgood type stuff at the time. So, no real common ground :) She asked if I'd heard of The Choir. The name alone was enough to get me snoring. Her brother in law was their drummer, or her brother-in-law's sister was married to the drummer...something like that. It wasn't her kind of music, but she said it was good, and I'd probably like it. I had this aversion at the time to keeping money in my wallet, and was in the mood for something new to listen to, so the next day I went out and picked up their latest album, Circle Slide.

And fell in love. WOW. This wasn't CCM as I knew it. This wasn't anything as I knew it. Since then I've grabbed everything I can by them--even paying $40 for an out of print CD from some stranger on an Internet discussion board back before the WWW made internet purchasing ubiquitous. (I should add I had $60 in my bank at the time) A few years later, that same CD was reprinted and I could've picked it up for $10, but I still don't regret the $40.

Okay, enough of that autobiography. On to the music. A few standouts:

• No father of a beautiful little girl can help but identify with "Wide-Eyed Wonder" and "When She Sees Me"--I swear these songs started playing in the back of my head when I first held my princess.
• "A Sentimental Song" has to be one of the greatest love songs of all time.
• "Restore My Soul"--you don't get closer to an extra-canonical penitential psalm than this

oh yeah, sampled the songs at a lower quality this time--that should help my bandwidth. Sorry 'bout the quality.

An old friend...

My mother was cleaning out her closet this weekend, and somehow came across an old Bible of mine. Not just any old bible, either...it was my The Student Bible--my old, trusty, NIV. I couldn't believe it! Hadn't seen it in ages--and neither of us were sure how it ended up in her room. I was half-asleep, starting to deal with that cold that I mentioned yesterday--but when I saw that vinyl cover (pen still in the pocket!) I bolted upright to grab it. Started flipping through it, for no real apparent reason. Finding old notes (some good, some...eh, none horrible), there on the inscription page was the date of my baptism, when my parents gave it to me--incidentally, that's the same date they attended church with any regularity, but that's a tale for another time.

I'd had an "adult" translation before--when I was in 6th grade or so, had been given a RSV, but since I started attending summer camps a couple years before, I'd wanted The Student Bible. It was what all the "sold-out" kids had, and I so wanted to be one of them (still do, in a way). I carted that Bible around for a few years longer than I should've--but this was before I had a copy of every major translation, multiple editions of some--one for the car/pocket, one for study, one for this, one for that. This was "my Bible" period. I didn't even have to remember refernces for some verses--just knew it was on this part of such and such page, about so far in. (now I don't remember references for anything because I generally have a search function w/in reach). I've really never "bonded" with a particular Bible like I have with that one. It was with me through a lot of thin, and some thick. Felt good to hold it again.

Not sure how long I sat and flipped through my old friend, but I can tell you that my oldest two boys didn't quite understand my excitement. Lord willing, one day... Frodo did find the date of my baptism to be oddly incongruous with my date of birth :)

Now don't get me wrong, I'm not dumping my no-study notes to be found anywhere ESV for this. It may be handy to have a hard copy NIV around. Regardless, it's good to have the memories around.

Who needs Tylenol Cold anyway?

Ref21 today made me forget the wretched affliction, misery and suffering that I'm enduring* with these two posts:

• Mainline Decline, Part Two (the last line is the killer!)
• More trouble brewing for confessional presbyterians?

*Question of the Day: Is there anything more pathetic than a grown-man with the sniffles?

3 down....

Here's Frodo:

Proud Papa Moment

The Princess read today for the first time :). It was originally scheduled for Wednesday, but blood, sweat, tears, patience, etc. had to be spent along the way.

Doesn't matter now. It happened. I saw it, I heard it. Time to build on it.

It's the Princess' turn

Not to be out-done...

bit too grown-up for daddy's taste/heart...but...there ya go.

The Most Influential "Christians" in America

Yesterday while hangin' in #prosapologian, someone posted a link to the Church Report's The 50 Most Influential Christians in America. This was quite the disturbing list, I must say.

As I would expect, there were no Reformed people on the list (yes, I saw him, and stand by my statement). A few Calvinistic types, if you look at soteriology only (and Calvin wouldn't for a second). But, hey, let's be realistic, it's the 21st century and we're in America--can't ask for much more than that. (well, you can, but shouldn't expect a positive answer).

What's sad (and probably shouldn't be that unexpected), is the sheer number of non-Christians on the list. Don't write off that comment as me being a snobby Presbyterian, I'm talking Nicaean Orthodoxy here. Lowest Common Denominator Christianity. You can't escape the Top 5 without finding sheer heresy. Damnable heresy. "Where'd I put my Zippo?" heresy.

And it gets worse...then there are the politicians....*

If this is influential Christianity, I want none of it. Frankly, influential Christianity is that silly little thing that used to be called experiential Calvinism. Experimental Religion. That kind of thing. Not someone who has a TV show, or a radio show, or a multi-million dollar "ministry." Someone who lives the Christian life. Who knows his heart, mortifies the flesh, seeks after holiness. That's the kind of Christian who will influence those around him and generations to follow. Not this rag-tag bunch of celebrities, politicians, blow-hards, hair-do's, other assorted goats, and the occasional decent type who must've ended up on the list by accident.

Hey, tired, what's that position called again? Amelm...Allou...Alumin...Amuesli... eh, whatever, sounding pretty good right now.


*that was a joke, son, a joke.

Samwise Meez

Probably get the rest of the kids up in a few days, but here's what Samwise put together for himself today:

If these two can see it...

RJ and Verne get it. Why don't more people?

from yesterday's Over the Hedge:

Fun at the Optometrist

So Monday, my elder two and I go to the optometrist--Frodo and I are overdue for checkups, and Samwise is a little overdue for his first exam. My extended family has been going to the same doctor for approximately forever, but sometime since Frodo and I have been in, he's added a new person to the clinic.

Samwise is having a blast--this is all new to him, he's getting to do things (not just get poked and prodded like at the pediatricians). Frodo's just doing his thing, trying to show how old hat all this is .

The new guy is young (not that the other doctor is exactly old--but like myself, he's getting there, I guess). I'm willing to bet that this is his first job. He honestly looks like he should be doing tech support somewhere--he's definitely got the body for it. Now, he's trying to interact with my kids on their level, I'll give him that (oh, I hope he is, anyway...please don't let him address a senior citizen that way!). Using lingo that shows he's hip, kinda funky, etc. I recognize the symptoms of someone trying to show kids that he's cool, because I used do the same thing when interacting with kids. Until I realized my intrinsic cool-ness made that unnecessary--or was it that I recognized that I was so hopelessly lame that trying so hard made me even lamer (I always get the two confused)?

Samwise does great. Little farsighted, but that's the norm at this age, will be nearsighted eventually (like everyone over 18 he's related to). Young Doctor seemingly on a whim pulls out a couple of "new" tests to try on him. He does fine with those--including one test that he shouldn't do that okay with 'til he's 10 (didn't really get an explanation on that one).

Then comes Frodo's turn. Now, Frodo isn't as outgoing as his brother and he's either just uncomfortable in general, taken aback by the Doctor not talking like a grown-up, or his typical reserved self. Tough to tell without a few more clues than I could get. But it's clear from the get-go, that he's not going to interact with the man like Sam did. I try to joke with him a bit to loosen him up, but he shoots me a look to shut that down. Ahhh, it's performance anxiety. Type-A personality has kicked in and he has to be perfect on these tests. I get it now. Doc runs him through a couple things, and then whatever the next test is, basically blinds him with a bright light. Now Frodo's very light sensitive, and he's trying to recover, I try to buy him some time by mentioning this to Young Doctor who doesn't seem to register that I've spoken. His eyes are watering like crazy and he can't keep them open. Young Doctor is trying to move on, and Frodo's not ready. He's using his index fingers on each upper eye lid to try to pry them open so he can look at whatever he's supposed to be looking at. Young Doctor tells him to stop playing and open his eyes. I tell Frodo to take a minute and let his eyes recover. He rubs 'em pretty hard (probably not helping matters) and tries to get back to work--eyes still not wanting to open. Young Doctor is getting frustrated, moves on to another test. Frodo's back to prying his eyes open. Young Doctor is telling him to knock it off. He finally turns to me and says that he can't work with him like this, and he'll try after he's done with me, if that's okay. I shrug, "sure."

So Young Doctor turns to Frodo and tells him, in a very frustrated tone, to get down, he's done. Maybe when Dad's done he can try again, but he doesn't have time to deal with people that are playing around, not taking this seriously. Very dismissive. Now I know this tone, I use this tone on a fairly regular basis (and feel bad about it afterwards). Also, I know my boy wasn't playing.

I so I stand between the boys and Young Doctor, "You don't talk to my son this way. Come on boys, we're out of here." Slamming the exam room door, we march out, as quickly as I can gently prod them along. They can tell something's up and move quicker than normal (why can't they move like this all the time?) I'm storming through the reception area and proclaim to the gals in the front that "We are done with this office. That man just insulted my son. He has no right to talk to a kid like that. Not just we're done, but..." I list off a handful of relatives--all of whom spend more money there in a year than I do in three.

We're getting into the van, and it occurs to me that I've already paid for three exams! But I'm fuming too much to go back in. So I drive for a few blocks, cool off a touch, and call them. I get the gal who did the initial part of the exam, she's speechless at what I tell her, assures me that she'll talk to Old Doctor personally and mail me my check. Phew!

She calls me back an hour or so later, she's talked to Old Doctor, who wants to see us in a couple weeks, will do the exam himself. She also tells me how great she thinks my kids are--and how she didn't want the day to end without someone saying that to me. Didn't do much for me, but it helped.

Still steamed at Young Doctor. Sorry, you don't talk to patients like that. Period. If you're a genius like House and saving someone's life? (while being fictional) Go for it. Abuse people. If you're some puffy punk kid who's doing a routine eye check? Be nice.

I'm with Linus on this one...

Do you think it's too much to ask?