Living the Dream in Southwest Denver

Loss

2011-03-25T19:58:00.000-06:00

Once again it has been some time since I last wrote anything here on my blog. It seems like other priorities are getting more and more all the time.

I have been enjoying many of the joys of life and am grateful for that. My family is doing well. My daughter Rachel is now a licensed driver. Not sure how this has happened as I am not old enough to have a daughter that can drive? Chris Aaron will soon have his license as well. I am very proud of them both.

Jonathan on a recent trip to a place called”jump street” broke some bones in his foot. This is a recreation type place that has these giant trampolines. He just came down on his foot wrong and broke some bones. He will be in this boot for at least a month and is practicing the mastery of using crutches. He is still active as one can be using crutches with his acting class and in cub scouts. I am Very proud of him!

Kimberly has very quickly grown into a beautiful young lady. She is a blessing to us all as she is such a good caretaker for our youngest: William, among many other things she contributes to our family. I appreciate her so very much! I am very proud of her!

William has grown into the most precious little boy! He is a typical three year old and definitely fills out lives with joy and boredom is never present when he is around!

Darcy is the superwoman of all women. She is the busiest person I know! She gets everything done and even manages to spend time with me besides. She is my life partner and I love her very much!

I feel like a very blessed man as I could not have a greater family!

We recently went out to dinner with some of my old friends from high school. It was such a good time to see everyone again and to meet their spouses. In many ways it was like we just picked up where we left off some 20 plus years later. No doubt we will be doing this again soon. (I hope so at least) Friends are such a blessing and these are no exception.

This life is so good much of the time and the blessing we so often take for granted are plentiful and wonderful. There is an inherit risk involved when one has so many blessings.

I was shocked to hear this week that another old friend from High school lost her two teen age sons in an auto accident. It has occupied my thoughts for the last several days since receiving the news.

While I have not seen Sheryl in many years, we reconnected on face book some time back and I have enjoyed hearing from her. She and her family have been living a blessed life in Arkansas. This is obviously one of those tragedies that all of us parents prays and hopes we never see happen to the ones we love and care about.

What is there to say? This is an awful tragedy and can’t imagine the pain this family is having to endure. My hope and prayer is for them to be able to cope with the reality of their loss! There is a lot of healing ahead and I pray that The good Lord God will comfort them and somehow give them peace.

There are so many thoughts that have been racing through my mind in the light of this. I will defer from anything further as it is not about me or my words, or anything else. My heart aches for my old friend and her family. That is all there is. May they somehow have peace and comfort.

What goes around...

2010-10-18T20:31:00.005-06:00

Please allow me to take you back some years in the past to the early 1980's. I was about 15 or 16 years old and sitting with some friends at the back of church. This was never a good idea and probably especially so with the friends I was with at this particular instance. One of my friends had brought this small ball he had picked up from the church nursery. We started playing a small game of catch back and forth in the pew. Well of course you can possibly see where this is headed. Our church has an incline that the pews sit on. this design is a good one as the elevation goes up to allow for the more convenient viewing of the platform and minister up front. It is also conducive to balls on the floor rolling to the front of the church. This happened in this case and it was one of those moments where you get the giggles and just seems like your going to bust you are trying so hard to not laugh out loud. Physics being what it is of course the ball progressed all the way to the front of the church and rolled right next to our youth pastor at the time, who was speaking that Sunday. He never missed a beat and kept speaking like nothing had happened. Like I said we were about to bust from trying to hold back the laughter, and trying to look inconspicuous.
Fast forward some almost 30 years to this last Sunday October 17, 2010 I have helped at our church now for many years with the morning service.I do the announcements, read openng scripture and miscelaneous other things as required. While I am doing this I see a medium sized yellow nurf ball roll from under the front pew in front of where I was standing. It instantly took me back and I thought of Randy Houchens (the youth pastor back in the early 1980's) whom I talked about earlier and how he did not miss a beat. I look to the possible source of the ball and I see at the back of the church sitting with his older sister my youngest boy, William. He was sitting there as if nothing had happened. I for the most part, did not miss a beat either. It did bring a smile to my face even if he should probably have left the ball in the nursery. Like the title says: what goes around! :)

Help Up.

2010-08-28T09:25:00.000-06:00

Once again it has been a long time since I wrote anything for my blog. Things have a way of surrounding you and you get so caught up in the busyness of life and time just goes by.
I was on my way home from work one evening this last week. I was enjoying the decreased traffic, as I had stayed a little late to finish some things. As I was driving in this certain area I noticed a man on the opposite side of the street trying to get up. He had evidently fallen. He was a very large man and was very muscular in his upper body. It was obvious he had an infirmity in his legs, as he was not bending his knees. Imagine trying to get up form the ground without bending your knees.
Well even in the brief time I was viewing all of this I could see that he was not able to get up. I could see him try and then sit back down and try again. He was struggling very hard and was having no success. As I continued down the road I am playing this mental ping-pong of should I go and help, should I just go on? I look back once more in my rear view mirror to see him try and fail once more to get up. I take the next left turn lane and make a u-turn.
I had to go past him and find a parking place about a half of a block down the street. I walk towards him and see he is still struggling to get up. As I come up to him I ask sir may I give you a hand up? He says “sure” and says, as I extend my hand out to his, “it would be better if you just lifted me from my back.” I reached around his chest and lift as best I could, as he was a very heavy individual. (I wonder what people driving by thought about as they see us two out there trying to get him upright again?) :)
We manage to get him upright again and his cane in hand. I see beads of perspiration on his face, as he thanks me and says, “You’re a saint! “ We briefly talk and he shares how he had tripped over this small crack in the sidewalk as he states it “I was not paying attention and tripped”. Well we talk briefly and we go our separate ways. As I drive home many thoughts go through my head. Thoughts of how I am so blessed and take it for granted. Thoughts of how he called me a “Saint” when I know all so well that is so far from the truth. How we can get so caught up in our lives and the business and forget the simple blessings of sound mind and body, is humbling, to say the least when we get a reminder like this!
I was apprehensive when I started to go to help this man and I suppose there is something to be said about that as well. You see this was an African American man to use the politically correct term and I have to be honest and confess that played a part in my apprehension as well as not knowing if he was perhaps mentally disabled in some way, etc. It is silly when something or someone is different we seem to jump to a state of apprehension or get anxious about the “what if’s”.
How many opportunities to help someone do we just drive by everyday? How many folks out there just need a little help to get back up? How many friends could we make if we just stopped and helped? How many silly prejudices do we really have deep down?

I am writing this and hope I can make it clear that I don’t want any accolades about this. This was a blessing to me and I am thankful for the experience. I felt really good on that subsequent drive home and convicted as well. Don’t take your blessings for granted! Don’t be so caught up in the busyness of life that you drive right by a potential blessing for you as well as someone else!

May God convict us all of having a heart for people!

Doctor Doctor...

2010-04-07T22:09:00.001-06:00

I went to the doctor on Monday to see if they could help with my knee. It has been hurting for about three weeks now and it is intermittent in its problematic tendency. :)

One day its seemed like it is getting better the next it is hurting again. SO I finally broke down and into the doctor I went. Well, many times, I see a physicians assistant by the name of Cindy. She is maybe a little younger than I am and is a really nice person. She was hounding me about a year ago about my borderline high blood pressure. Of course she was back on me about it, this visit, as my numbers had not gotten better. She went on to say stuff about “risk factors”. Among others some of those were that I was a male and I was over 40 and that was not going to change! I asked if I could just lose some weight and exercise more to lower the numbers? She said yes then maybe we could talk about getting off the medication when you get to that point. It was clear she was convinced I needed to go on the medication. So I relented and it was so. I mentally have been rebelling against going on medication. I have a proud history of not being on any. It has been a long healthy young adulthood. Well this last year I am now on my second medication, which I am probably going to have to take from here on! I suppose it was bound to happen sooner or later.

I was told by some friends when I turned 40 and again recently…something to the tune of “well when I turned 40 that’s when everything started to go down hill” :) . My reaction inside is to rebel against that. I know I am getting older than when I was first married but come on! Old? No way! I rebel and think I can still physically stay up with the best of them. I am pressing forward and who knows maybe the doctor is right and this stuff will actually help me feel and be better. :) Oh and by he way I got some great medicine for my knee too! Feels much better! :)

Remember to play!

2010-03-29T21:44:00.000-06:00

I was out riding my bicycle the other day and was riding down the Platte River, which has an excellent path that runs along next to it. They are working on the path and have detoured a length of it through a neighborhood that is just south of “Invesco Field at Mile High” stadium. This is a housing project and if you have ever seen one it is an impoverished and somewhat crowded. I was riding down the street and there was this group of young children playing. I am guessing they were around 7 or 8 years old and they had this old basketball and they were playing basketball, well kind of. They were playing up against the side of the house and there was no hoop. Made me think of simpler times, when I was a child myself and there was no Internet, no cable tv and we always found a way to entertain ourselves much like these kids had been. I could not help but smile and take joy in their entertaining themselves. Sure they were from a poor family no doubt and living in a poor area. They didn’t seem to care too much about that. They just wanted to play!

One more time...

2010-02-21T22:46:00.002-07:00

It seems like things get so busy and it gets very easy to neglect writing my thoughts. I appreciate the comments and well wishes I get many times when I write here on my blog, but mostly it is a place of release and I enjoy it for what it is not for what attention it may or may not get. However like all of us we enjoy getting compliments on things we do and I say thank you to those who have in the past said how they enjoyed reading what I have written.
I re-enlisted this last week. (Actually it is not technically due for extension until April, but I signed the paperwork and took my oath one more time.) It is something how time flies. This I know and if anyone looked back at my entries would see this is a reoccurring theme in much of my writing. Time moves on! I first joined the Colorado Air National Guard in 1987. When I write this it does not register in my mind that this year was a “long” time ago. It seems perfectly reasonable when I write or say “1987”. It seems in many ways like just a little while ago. Then again when I see how far I have come and the events that have been between that year and now and it truly is a while ago!
I re-enlisted for 6 more years. At the end of this extension this would make my time equal 29 years. I will be 50 years old and my two oldest children will be 23 and 21 years old. How can this be possible? Truly it hurts my brain to realize my babies will more than likely be on their own and potentially having there own families by then. By the way I am very proud of each of them and expect great things from them as they grow older.
The thoughts are many: This potentially could be the last time I extend my enlistment. This could also indicate a drastic change in my life when that occurs. I may have to go out and get a normal job! :) Whatever that is!
I am honored that I have been able to do this job for so long and still be contributing at a level that I think matters. It is sometimes very difficult to deal with many of the pressures, but I also realize that many have it so much worse than I will ever have it. I enjoy the security in the income and benefits that it has provided myself and my family. I am truly thankful and feel like I am blessed.
So much has changed were I work, over the years and some of it is good. However, some of the changes, I wonder. We have left behind, in my opinion some of the very positive things that we had years back. That subject is much to long and way to uninteresting for me to go into here. :)
I remember when we got the f-16’s. They were near new and it was so exciting, we had a different aircraft that simply did incredible things. We were now part of the f-16 community in the military and we were determined to be the best maintainers in that community. They are now, in the fighter aircraft world, old and have been used and used. We keep repairing, modifying, upgrading and using them today. Times have changed and it happened mostly when we were not looking. Then again that is how it normally goes, I suppose. While we were enjoying life, we aged, we left behind those young kids we used to be and traded them in for families and children of our own and it all happened so quickly. It is easy to feel old sometimes, when the people you are now working with many were born after you had been in several years already. Such is the circle of life, I suppose! :) I am very proud to have served with The 140th Wing of the Air National Guard. Best Air National Guard Unit in the World! I look forward to whatever the future holds for me in my career.

People who see me in uniform or discover that I am in the military have thanked me many times over the years. I say to all of them and to you today, Thank You! I have a great life! I enjoy that my job is anything but “Normal” and it is many times an adventure that I thoroughly enjoy!

The good Lord has blessed me and I am thankful! Blessings of health, family, and career!

I wish for all who read this the same!

Memories: A Memo of blessing.

2009-12-21T21:17:00.003-07:00

As I sit here at the kitchen table this morning with my laptop computer doing various things; I contemplate life as I listen to some music in my headphones. The rest of the family is asleep, all is still and quiet. I have some time off from work for the next couple of weeks and it is such a relief. To not have any pressure of work and the like is just a wonderful mental and even physical release.
As I am sitting here a song that I like comes on and I can’t help but ponder how wonderful my life really is and has been.

“Memories, pressed between the pages of my mind
Memories, sweetened thru the ages just like wine

Quiet thought come floating down
And settle softly to the ground
Like golden autumn leaves around my feet
I touched them and they burst apart with sweet memories,
Sweet memories”

Sappy! huh?

I have always enjoyed this song that was made famous by Elvis Presley.

I have written many times and said it probably even more. Christmas is probably my favorite time with my family. The excitement that is generated from the kids is so much fun. One can’t help but get pulled in with them. Dwelling in the blessings of God and Family is wonderful! Of course, I have incredible memories of wonderful times past. Most of these memories involve my family! One of my favorite Psalms is Psalm 90. It talks about how short life is and we are like a grass which in the morning sprouts anew and towards evening it fades and withers away. This theme is not foreign to other parts of the Bible, Old and New Testament. Jesus talked much about the shortness of life and the temporary place in which we now reside. This is not exactly a “pep” talk we are getting from the scripture. However, I do believe it is as if God is saying this is important! Listen! The fact is it is realistic. Life is so very short and I or probably “we” get so caught up in things that are not important in the grand scheme of our 70 or 80 years here on earth.
So I say lets live as if we knew the end was near! Because when we really get down to it, it is! What will you do with the precious time that you have left? What will your Christmas celebration look like? What will your plan for you and your family look like this next year? Ten years? Twenty years? Will you take that vacation you have been procrastinating because of your workaholic commitments at work? Will you spend the time with your children who when you looked away went from the precious six year old to a taller than you and probably stronger 16 year old?
Lots of questions, but only you can answer them and take action.
I wish all that read this a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Psalm 90

Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations.
2Before the mountains were born
Or You gave birth to the earth and the world,
Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.
3You turn man back into dust
And say, "Return, O children of men."
4For a thousand years in Your sight
Are like yesterday when it passes by,
Or as a watch in the night.
5You have swept them away like a flood, they fall asleep;
In the morning they are like grass which sprouts anew.
6In the morning it flourishes and sprouts anew;
Toward evening it fades and withers away.
7For we have been consumed by Your anger
And by Your wrath we have been dismayed.
8You have placed our iniquities before You,
Our secret sins in the light of Your presence.
9For all our days have declined in Your fury;
We have finished our years like a sigh.
10As for the days of our life, they contain seventy years,
Or if due to strength, eighty years,
Yet their pride is but labor and sorrow;
For soon it is gone and we fly away.
11Who understands the power of Your anger
And Your fury, according to the fear that is due You?
12So teach us to number our days,
That we may present to You a heart of wisdom.
13Do return, O LORD; how long will it be?
And be sorry for Your servants.
13Do return, O LORD; how long will it be?
And be sorry for Your servants.
14O satisfy us in the morning with Your loving kindness,
That we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.
15 Make us glad according to the days You have afflicted us,
And the years we have seen [b]evil.
16Let Your work appear to Your servants
And Your majesty to their children.
17Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us;
And confirm for us the work of our hands;
Yes, confirm the work of our hands.

speed drawing: anime double

2009-12-17T18:12:00.001-07:00

My kids have talent! :)
This is very good actually!

Chris

Winter

2009-11-16T08:52:00.004-07:00

I think it is fair to say that winter is here! It snowed again the last few days and accumulated a good amount of snow on the ground and rooftops. While some aspects of this time of year I could just as soon do without I love the Holiday season. I love the preparations and all that lead up to Christmas. Haveing children, it is especially enjoyeable for me, as they really like it too. I am as guilty as you can be of living vicariously through my kids.

One of the things that my wife and I have done the last several years around this time of year is to make jelly. It is fun and we can usually get grapes from our neighbors grapevine, or some cherries or other fruit to use for the jelly. We have experimented with different kinds and we usually give some away as Christmas gifts. Yesterday afternoon we tried somthing new with cherry jelly. The fruit was not fresh but canned and we used a "tart cherry juice" you can buy in the store. So far the reviews are very good!

I hope for all that your Thanksgiving and Christmas are especially happy this year!

Steve Harvey Introduces Jesus

2009-09-27T19:59:00.001-06:00

Very Good!

Lumber, nails and Time with Children. Precious!

2009-08-08T20:32:00.012-06:00

During my time off I have been able to undertake this project with my children and have been enjoying the task at hand and the ever present helpers. They have been great in helping me! They did a lot of the work themselves! I really had a fortunate event on craigslist. I responded to a free add for some shingles for the roof and ended up with the window and siding you see here all for a steal of a deal. Now a roof and trim and paint... Oh and a door! :)

There are probably going to be windows on the endso fo the house as well. Just have not worked that out yet. Can work this out later, no problem.

Chris

Building a playhouse.

2009-08-05T22:44:00.007-06:00

About five or more years ago I said to the kids that somtime we could build a playhouse in the back yard. Well if you did not know, kids especially do not forget things. So we started yesterday building it. More pictures to follow...

Picture

2009-07-19T05:08:00.001-06:00

Me and an old friend from our unit. We have been working together close to 20 years already! How did that happen so fast?

Chris

Dusty!

2009-07-03T10:46:00.002-06:00

A quick video of dust in the air in Iraq. Icky!

Doing Fine

2009-07-02T10:34:00.007-06:00

Just a quick message to let everyone know I am doing just fine. I am so looking forward to coming home soon. Love you all!
Chris

Life in Iraq

2009-06-01T02:32:00.000-06:00

I have been here now close to a month. (Reality it is a little over three weeks but it helps my mental state to say a month). I have gotten into a routine of things and time seems to be moving along ok.
It is no paradise here and that was never even talked bout. The temperatures have been over 100 as a cool day and typically about 110. I understand from others that it will be getting over 120 before its done. It is amazing how you adjust to it. Don’t get me wrong I am not comfortable in these temperatures, but it doesn’t seem to be bothering me as much as I thought it would.
I have been working 12 hour days (7 am to 7 pm) 6 days a week with my current day off being Mondays. It seems like a long time to work, but it does keep you focused on the tasks at hand and leave little time to lie around and think about being homesick and the like.
There have been dust storms several times which is not fun. The air smells and tastes like dust. I am sure we are breathing eating and wearing dust most of the time during these storms. The sky is just a dirt color when this happens. It really is amazing how much dust can be in one place. :)
The food surprisingly has been very good! I suppose the logic in that is at least you can have a good meal here. I have enjoyed steak several times and even fried shrimp once or twice that would rival a good restaurant back home. I am definitely not complaining about the food. This is a nice change as most deployments like this the food definitely has left a lot to be desired.
Our living arrangements are not that bad either. They are called pods and are basically the equivalent to a trailer of sorts, with a couple bunk beds and lockers. Normal conditions are there are two of us in there, except during transition and then up to 4 of us share the room. My roommate has an old friend that was here when we got here and was leaving shortly after. He set us up with a small refrigerator and television. So we have quite the room, as rooms go here. We will just leave this stuff for the next folks that come and so on.
The work is ok, the food is good, the room is livable, but I do miss my family and friends and look forward to going home and being with them once more.
Until then May the good Lord be with us all!
Chris

Saying Goodbye

2009-06-01T01:54:00.004-06:00

May 6, 2009
I assembled today to deploy to Iraq. The scene was a familiar one as when our unit deploys they have a time for the family and friends to assemble and say goodbye. I have never had my family come to this as it tears me apart inside to leave them. I know that if they were to be there I would be balling like a baby and not wanting to let go.
I watched this day as families hugged there departing members and said good bye. I watched as husbands kissed there wives and held there little ones. I watched as little boys and girls cried and the tears flowed down there face.
One particular scene caught my attention and it made a big impression on me. I watched as a man and woman not much older than I, hugged and cried over a young man, looking rather sharp in his uniform. His mother held him close and was crying and his father also was tearing up as he said goodbye. I see, as the mother finally releases her embrace on her son, the young man resisting with all he has to not cry as well.
I am old enough to be this young mans father and I am thankful that to this point, at least, I have not had to address this issue of my children going off into a scenario that would make the most faithful of us, anxious. While I am not concerned about my safety in Iraq, I can imagine a parents anxious concerns over sending her child somewhere like this. I also am mindful of the effects this has on my family. I know that no matter what appears on the outside it is difficult for my family to not worry and be ever mindful of my absence.
I am so very thankful to God for the many blessings he has provided in my life. Blessings of family and friends, of a career that has enabled me to provide for my family!
I have been sent to many places around the world, some nice and some not so nice.
As I once again leave my family to deploy, I look forward to the day that I will return and be with them. I am so very humbled by the many other military brethren that have to deploy for much longer than I do and there sacrifice as they are separated some up to 18 months at a time. I thankfully will not be gone that long and will return towards the end of July!
Until then, I trust the good Lord for His care and provision.

God Bless.

Chris

Hello from Iraq

2009-05-18T01:02:00.001-06:00

Arrived fine.

Who knew!?

2009-04-05T09:07:00.002-06:00

I often find myself playing that thought game of thinking back where I came from and where I am now, wondering what I would have thought if someone told me what was going to happen to me back then, what my thoughts would have been.
As I have many times said and no doubt will continue to say how blessed I am and how humbled and grateful I am to God for the many blessings he has given me.
Above all else I have this terrific family that I am very committed to and enjoy daily! They are my life and I don’t know what I would do without them!
Back to the game I mentioned. If anyone would have told me many years ago I would have all that I do today it would be kind of hard to comprehend. I do not say all these things as a boastful, see what I have and you don’t, kind of thing, but I do give the Lord the praise for my life and these wonderful people.
The other night we called a “family meeting”. Something we do often and we just talk about whatever we need to and sometimes we play board games together, etc.
The purpose of this meeting primarily was to inform the children that Dad has a deployment (trip for work) he is going on.
I will be deploying with my Guard unit for a rotation into Iraq. Not something I really relish or look forward to but it is my turn, so to speak, and I need to do this.
The reaction of my children is mostly what I expected, the girls reacted emotionally more than the boys (outwardly at least). They all reacted with sadness and you could tell, (even though I tell them not to) worry. I waited a long time before I told them about it as I did not want them worrying about it all that time. I also did not want to, as I was convinced by my wife, tell them so late that they feel like they were blindsided by the news. This is a hard thing to know when is best to tell them.
All of this being said to say this: Who knew those many years ago when Darcy and I started our lives together and family, that I would have this group of people that cared so much for me that when I go away for a time they are so consumed with love for me that they worry about me and tears are shed. I feel the same way about them of course. It is very difficult for me to leave them for even a few days. I am truly blessed!
While I will be gone longer than I would like, (anything more than a few days) :)
I am so humbled by the other military people that are deployed over there for a year at a time and sometimes longer. My time is not that long. I look forward to the day when I return home.

Still living!

2009-03-21T20:04:00.004-06:00

Yes, I and mine are still alive and well. Time is so very slippery and goes by so very quickly it seems. I know I have written this many times on this blog in the past and it has always been true. Once again I find myself on March 21 and can't believe the first three months of the year have almost gotten by us already.
Life has been busy and full of tasks and appointments and of course the everyday things that occupy my and my families life. We occasionally still get to participate in my youngest child practicing for when he has his own talk show, "William Up all Night." Of course I am minimally affected as my beloved Darcy takes most care of this.
The older kids are so helpful with him and he no doubt is getting the best deal out of our family being the youngest. He is spoiled for sure. We had to learn parenting on the first 4 and now we are polished and he is benefiting. (Truth be known I am still making most of this parenting stuff up as I go.)
Seriously The God Lord has blessed me beyond my wildest imaginations when Darcy and I started down this road some 21 years ago. (March 19).
I was talking Friday at work with a man that was there to measure our offices for new furniture. He being in the civilian sector was very interested in the work we do. I work as Quality Assurance Inspector in aircraft maintenance for the greatest F-16 unit in the world, the Colorado Air National Guard. While watching out the window of our office you could see an incentive flight taking off and doing what we call a "sand box" departure, which basically means a strait up climb to altitude then invert the aircraft and roll over to right side up and proceed with the flight. He was so excited about getting to see this! My remark to him was "to us it is just noise!" I was of course joking. It is still neat what these machines can do and all, it is just that I see it all the time. It is something that is very ordinary in my day to day life and it is easy sometimes to forget what a blessing it is to do the work I do and work with the people I work with. I was recently out on the flight line near the runway and airplanes were taxing nearby and others flying there low approaches right in front of us. Again; we are around this often. It was a very nice day outside this particular day and the thought crossed my mind "Who does this job?" Meaning this is really something that I am allowed to come and do this kind of work and get paid for it! I am serious!
There is a Disney movie that came out several years ago(The Rookie) and it is about a high school baseball coach. He made this deal with his team if they won the state championship he would as they requested try out for the major leagues. Long story short he ends up, as a result of the try-out in the minor leagues and his bills at home are piling up and he is questioning his decision to pursue his dream of being in the major leagues. He is about to quit and return home when on a phone call with his wife she asks him "do you still love it?" He then decides he is going to play baseball because he loves it no matter if he makes the majors or not. There is a scene where he comes in to the locker room and says to one of the other players “you know what we get to do today? We get to play baseball!” Both men smile and "go to work". While my work, like anyone’s is sometimes a burden I bear, but, most of the time it is something I enjoy very much and consider it a blessing! In these difficult times I am especially thankful for a vocation that provides for my family.
The past couple weeks they have been doing what we call incentive rides with our two seat aircraft. The majority is single seats, but for training and other purposes as they arise we have a two seater. The individuals that get these rides vary from mayors or governors to football personalities’ and many times members of our unit as well. It is used as a tool for morale of the troops as well as Public Relations to the community. Side Note: Local Traffic Reporter Amelia Earhart was given a ride this last week.
As always I would love to hear from anyone who reads what I write. Feel free to post a comment on the blog email me or send smoke signals. All is welcome.
God bless
Chris

1st Born Turns 16

2009-01-16T07:40:00.003-07:00

My son, Chris Aaron turned 16 on January 13th. His father is extremely proud of him! HE is the one on the right in case you couldn't tell who was 16.

Chris

Favorite time of year?

2008-12-20T00:15:00.003-07:00

I have always, as long as I can remember, loved this time of year. I love the Christmas Celebration. The preparation, the anticipation of Christmas morning, the food the family and friends, all of these things I very much enjoy. I have been so blessed with a beautiful family! It makes this time of year for me one of my favorite times.
Darcy and I were able to go shopping this evening at the newly built Target. Simple task really but we were able to go just the two of us. It was a very enjoyable time together and surprisingly the store was not that full of people.
I have some time off the next couple of weeks I am very much looking forward to relaxing and enjoying my family.
I have been prone to ponder different points of view about certain things. For example: I lost a good friend this last year to cancer. He was just a few years older than I am and he past into eternity last April. I think about his family often and how they must be feeling this year at Christmas time. I am sure there are many similar examples that you know of with friends or family. It is sometimes such a bittersweet thing, this life. We want those wonderful times with our loved ones and we should cherish every minute. When it is gone we miss it that much more.
The points could be many I suppose. Like I have already said, cherish every minute, don’t wait for a “special occasion” to say or do something in regards to a loved one. The time we have on this earth is so short! Part of a song from a group in the 1960’s “We are but a moment’s sunlight fading in the grass” Great song and it points out in its way that life is short! The Bible addresses this I belive in methaphor of "we are just a vapor that is here for a time then is gone" Not a direct quote! :) That should put a certain urgency to things, I think. We don’t really have all the time in the world like we sometimes elude ourselves. That should also help us hopefully to enjoy the present and really pay attention to our blessings and thank the good Lord above for giving them to us! I thank the Lord for those of you who will read this!

Merry Christmas!

Pictures

2008-12-08T16:37:00.005-07:00

Willaim and I after the Bicycle ride today

28.80 miles makes 5000 for the year!

What's 5000 miles among friends?

2008-12-08T16:16:00.005-07:00

I finished my goal today of riding 5000 miles on my bicycle. I needed 28.80 miles to reach 5000 and I was able to take care of that today. I hesitate to post it here because some of you like to brag on me to others and embarrass me in my huge humility. :) I honestly do not want to post stuff like this as a means for attention. My only thinking I suppose is to say that if I can do this at 43 then most anyone can accomplish similiar goals. It is just a matter of one day at a time and learn to enjoy the journey.
There were times when it was starting to feel like a chore rather than somthing I enjoyed. I made a deal with myself to, at least start to go for the ride and if after 10 minutes or so I could return and not ride any more that day. I never came back once I got started. There is so much to enjoy when you are out riding. I expecially liked the rides early in the morning in the summer. The weather is great and it is nearly dead quite. It is very peaceful! (Except for the morning when the skunk got me) :) I still want to kill that skunk! :)
After many inner tubes, 3 plus sets of tires, 2 water bottles (they were covered in skunk) two derailer hangers, one derailer, one spoke, 3 sets of shoes cleats and countless sore muscles, sweaty clothes and extra hours on the bike, I can say I did it and maybe relax a little until the new year. But then again I do have a lot to get done with...

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Chris

Ei Ei OOOOOOOOOO

2008-10-22T21:55:00.002-06:00

Now how can anyone argue with this!

Politics, life and other things that get in the way :)

2008-10-12T18:37:00.005-06:00

It always surprises me that people can use whatever they want, to attack and belittle others. I have seen this with highly educated people. All that education evidentially has not given them security about themselves enough to not ridicule others. A respectful and professional disposition is what I would anticipate from them; however that is not always the case. They have become so self centered and no matter how much they will deny it, there is something missing in there lives that no matter how hard they pursue things to try and fill the void it is to no avail. This has become most evident lately with more than one run in with some liberal Borak Obama supporters. I am not saying this is just their issue. There are plenty examples of this on all sides of the political spectrum. I examine my own life and see where I have also been self centered and it is not a good thing. I certainly have not “arrived” in many areas of my life, including a tendency occasionally to be selfish. I am not saying that having a candidate you believe in is a bad thing! It is a wonderful thing and what makes America Great! When it gets to vicious verbal attacks from one side against the other then I think reevaluation of what you are standing for is in order. We have seen this recently with John McCain’s appearance at a rally and some of the cheering and comments were to say the least inappropriate. To his credit he called them out on it! It is one of my desires and “goals” if you will, to act better than this no matter how others choose to act. We all have reasons for the way we choose to act I suppose. While I have not arrived, I choose to treat people with respect, even when I believe they are wrong.

As has been recently pointed out by one of the millions no doubt of readers here to my humble blog, I have bot posted in a long while. I have no excuse other than I have chosen to occupy my time with other things. Some good, some probably to a large degree, a waste of time. :)

The Family is doing very good! Willaim is growing so fast! He is starting to talk some and is so cute! He likes to be read books and one of his favorites is "Old McDonald" as he calls it "EI" (Short for Ei Ei O). Jonathan is doing well, he really likes his acting class. Kimberly is doing well also. She struggles with some things in school but is working hard at them and is showing much improvement. She likes attending her dancing class. Rachel is growing to fast for her Dad! She is a wonderful young lady who is very generous to her brothers and sisters and is so very helpful to her Mom and Dad.
Chris Aaron is also a wonderful young man! In a most recent example of his Dad being very proud of him. Rachel, he and I went for a hike in the near foothillls. We went and hiked up Mt. Morrison above Red Rocks Park. The mountain was very steep in places and Rachel was scared. She was a little upset and was sharing with me that it was a little scary. I asked is it because it is so high?... and she said yes that is part of it. Chris Aaron without missing a beat said "I don't care for heights much myself. " He did not make fun of her, he supported her feelings at the time and that was it. I was very proud of him at that moment. He is a good Son and evidentally a good brother too!

Will write more real soon, I promise and will post some recent photo's too.

Chris

Goals

2008-08-04T15:58:00.002-06:00

I set a goal for myself this last week and I achieved it. My goal was to ride my bicycle to work everyday of work for that week. As it turns out it was a longer than normal week for me. (5 days). I normally work 4 ten-hour days, Tuesday through Friday.
So I got up each morning about an hour earlier than normal and was able to spend time on the bicycle before and after work. We have also been having a record length of days with temperatures above 95 degrees, so the morning commute was much cooler and enjoyable than the evening. While it was a challenging week and I stretched myself to get this done it was very enjoyable and especially in the mornings a peaceful retreat from the rest of the day.
I have thoroughly enjoyed getting back into riding and pursuing my year goal of 5000 miles. I surpassed the 3000-mile mark last week as well.
It has been more and more impressed upon me that I need to trust the good Lord in matters of my life. There are so many facets that one can get caught up in and get taken away into the world of worry and anxiety. I was blessed a few weeks back to speak for my churches morning service and this is what I spoke upon. It really is true that when you “teach” something you learn much more than the ones being taught. Bottom line is God has told us in the Bible that he is with us always and will never leave us or forsake us. SO it is ok to trust Him with all the matter of life!
For all who read my blog, I would encourage you to comment and or drop me an email from time to time. It is always nice to know who is reading!

Children grow up!

2008-07-20T19:24:00.007-06:00

As the joke goes you feed and water them and before you know it they are looking you eye to eye.

This last week I had occasion to travel for work and thusly I found myself in airports along the way. As I entered the line to go through the check in process, I watched as this couple about my age said goodbye to their daughter as she entered the line ahead of me. The mother was telling her “little girl” to be sure to keep her tickets in a safe place to put them away and she was replying with some minor irritation “yes mom” with a rolling the eyes look and smile of love for her parents. The father simply stood there with a proud smile on his face. The parents said goodbye as they reluctantly walked away and the young woman went to follow the line of people to check in.
As a parent of five I know fully the feelings of parenthood. The extreme pride you have in them conflicting with the pain of them growing older and the realization that they will eventually leave home and your day to day life will be emptier becausse of it. Of course we raise them to be self sufficient and go into the world and make their own way, But it is difficult the thought of them leaving home.
Of course my older children will probably be the first to stretch their wings and fly away from our home. My oldest two children Chris Aaron and Rachel, his younger sister, are 15 and 14 years old accordingly. I know it won’t be long as time does go so very fast. I cherish each and every day with them. I envision myself in an airport one-day watching my babies walk into the security line to get on a plane and fly out into the world. I hope and pray I have done everything I could have to prepare them.

Another blast from the past!

2008-07-16T15:33:00.008-06:00

I went through Basic training and technical school in the Air Force in 1987 and 1988 I was married that same year in March of 1988.
I am currently at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls Texas for a one-week school on weight and balance. This is the same place I took that very first technical school some 20 plus years ago. It once again, like so many times the last year or so, is a source to reminisce of those days so long ago. (But, Then again it was not that long ago). The airman are all over the place not that much different from when I was one of those. They march to class together and are seen in formation all over the base. It is a very interesting perspective to see them now. One thing is as I look at the young faces and realize I am old enough to be there father. How come we did not look that young when I was here last? :)
They are taught to respect the higher ranks around them to a very high degree. They will literally stop and stand at attention against the walls in a hallway when I walk around where they are. While it is amusing on one hand it is humbling and kind of neat on the other. I was taught this as well back in basic training and throughout technical school and I think I have always tried to show proper respect for rank and the people who had earned it. Our unit is as many guard units; laid back on these issues and it is common for higher-ranking folks to interact, shall we say; a little less formal. The respect is still there and if it is not the situation is dealt with; however they are definitely two different environments.
While it is so very tempting to jump up against the wall next to them and whisper “Hey why are we up against the wall? “ I just tell them to carry on. They say thank you sir and off they go.
I have gotten my bearings so to speak of the base and found my old squadron barracks and it is so fun to see all these places again so much time later. So many things have happened since then. Some very good things! I am so proud of my wonderful family! I have been blessed so much by God and can only be thankful and humbled for it all!
While it is fun to visit here again I look forward to going home on Friday!

By the way I think this is pretty funny! I do not wish to offend anyone. Being a parent of five, three of which are boys, this makes me laugh out loud!

Huggies: Geyser
Uploaded by hourigan

In times like these, it's wise to remember to take the headlines with a grain of salt.

2008-06-29T22:07:00.004-06:00

In these times of seemingly endless bad news, I very much like and enjoyed this breath of fresh air!

http://www.businessweek.com/smallbiz/content/jun2008/sb20080627_027663.htm?campaign_id=rss_smlbz

Thank God for our many blessings!

Time flies once again

2008-06-24T16:25:00.003-06:00

It has been some time since I last posted. Time sure does go by quickly. Not too much to write today. I am taking some time off from work and enjoying myself at home for now. Our oven looks like it is time for it to be replaced so we have been shopping around some for that. OIE VEY who knew there was such a selection of options aetc for a gas stove.

I am going to see if I can attach a video of William exploring the house.
God Bless All!

Chris

You ever call in sick as a joke?

2008-05-02T18:08:00.003-06:00

I found out something today that makes me laugh! As I have been writing lately about my Friend Walt who passed away last Sunday. We worked together for many years. Well at our workplace if you were sick you would call in the morning when you were suppose to be there and let your boss know you were not coming in and to put you down for sick leave. Sometimes you would just relay that message through whoever answered the phone.
Well someone told me that Walt last week a few days before his death, he called in sick. No doubt it was his insatiable sense of humor, that even in his last hours of this life he was laughing and joking around! This makes me laugh but it also gives me that sting again of sorrow that I miss my friend.
Here’s to life and a life abundant!
Hmmm? Calling in sick now that’s an idea

Looking back,saying goodbye and Time marches on.

2008-04-30T21:57:00.002-06:00

I have worked Aircraft maintenance for the Colorado Air National Guard for some 21 plus years now. In the early 90’s as a full time technician with this fine organization we went through a time were literally not many people left. We had a good 10 years in there that mostly the core group of people remained the same. We worked together and went on Temporary duty assignments all over the US and world together. Involved in Real world contingencies including most recently Operation Iraqi freedom. When you think about it we spent more time together than we did with our own families. In a way we were family. I used to say jokingly a very dysfunctional family but regardless family. When you are in this situation you grow close. There were different personalities and different beliefs and all of that but there was no doubt that we cared and were there for one another.
Today I went to the funeral of a Dear Friend that I worked with for many of those wonderful years. Walt was his name and I will miss him very much. As with most funerals there are many emotions that go through you. For me, seeing and sitting with many of the people I had worked with over the years was a trip down memory lane. It took me back to those years when we were together for so long. Some of these people I still work with but they have moved on to supervisor positions and the like, so we don’t work side by side like we once did. Many have moved on and retired from the military to pursue other careers. Many have retired to leisurely days of honey do lists, travel and the like.
Literally on one hand I think I can count the remaining people that work on the flight line were I started. I have moved on as well and work in the Quality Assurance Office.
While it was really good to see them it was also a reminder that those days are now gone and even more so with the lose of our dear friend Walt! Those days are now relegated to the past and while good memories, made me desire them once again and saddened me to realize they were gone forever. That is how time is; it moves on! Life goes on and new generations of young people I now watch doing the work I used to do. It is indeed a humbling.
I am so grateful that this situation as it occured, allowed us a chance to say goodbye before he passed away. As Walt said and we all would agree it was a gift. A bittersweet gift of a brief moment in time to say we love you and goodbye!
I love you too Walt and I am going to miss you!

Phone Message

2008-04-24T21:09:00.001-06:00

April 22 around 09:30 Am.:
I have had a busy morning at work already. I was out and about doing some inspections on some different things in various sections within our unit. I come back to the office to find a red light on my phone. I had a message. I thought to myself; with all I have to do right now should I retrieve the message or get it later when I have some time? I decide to go ahead and retrieve it After going through the seemingly endless menu to enter password and the like I finally get the message and it goes something like this: “Hi Dad, what about this packing pillow? Give me a call please! “
I chuckle to myself because I recognize it is Jonathan my 8 yr old. I also know what it is about as he has been bugging me about it for days.
We received a package in the mail sometime back and it had one of those air filled “packing pillows” . Well I set it aside with the other bubble wrap that came in it with the intention of putting it away and reusing it sometime when we needed to send something. He wanted to pop it! J
Well at this point I know my priority! I call home to talk to my son! I say” what’s up Buddy! He says what about this packing pillow Dad? I say what about it?
Can I pop it!?... Yes I suppose if you really want to. He says ok thank you bye.
I hang up the phone and return to my duties at hand, but as I go I feel a little better because my little one had brightened my day! He is such a good little guy! I am blessed to have him!

Saying Godbye

2008-04-17T22:12:00.000-06:00

I got to say goodbye today to a friend. His name is Walt and we worked together for about 18 years give or take. In many ways we grew up together in our careers and with our families.
I remember when he and his wife were expecting their 4th child about the same time we were expecting our 1st. I would tease him about starting a baseball team etc. Well I guess that is kind of ironic now that we have five. I got to talk with him about good memories and the good times we had together at different locations all over the world.
It was very bittersweet. You see Walt has Cancer and this last week was told that he had about two weeks to live. He was very open and transparent about his situation. While we enjoyed a time of sharing and seeing one another along with about 20 to 30 other of his former work buddies, we also had some time to talk in a very frank and serious manner about how thankful we were to be able to say goodbye.
Tears were shed all around and we all were able to say goodbye to our friend! As many of us are, Walt is a Christian and he also was not afraid to share with everyone what that meant to him!
Saying goodbye has always been difficult for me. This one is especially difficult but I am indeed thankful that I have had this opportunity.
Your prayers for Walt and his family are appreciated.

The"Old" baby crib

2008-03-30T17:46:00.006-06:00

Back in 1993 (Ancient History) My wife informed me that I was going to be a father for the first time. Who knew that she would keep informing of this four additional times after that! :)
At that time I had started to do some small woodworking projects and found my enjoyment for it was growing. I thought to myself wouldn't it be nice to build a crib for our new baby. So I searched for a plan and found one, I started to do the best I could at building this project. As it turns out I did not have it done before he (Chris Aaron) arrived. I did finish it before he needed it however and we started using it and seems like, we never have stopped since then. :) In reality however we have had the crib put away for some 4 or 5 years now as Jonathan has not slept in a crib for about that long.
S0 as William has outgrown his current sleeping arrangement it has become apparent that it is once again time to get the crib out and setup for our latest bundle of joy to use as his 4 previous siblings have done.
As I assembled it I could not help but notice the many errors that were made in its construction. I can even remember some of the rookie shortcuts I took, thinking it would not matter and it would look fine. Well as I look at it now I see how far I have come with my woodworking skills or perhaps my developed critical demeanor on my other projects. Not saying I have arrived at my woodworking skills by any means I learn more all the time. Looking at this crib some 15 years later shows me how much I really did not know. My parenting is a lot like that as well. :) I really have been, as I used to say to the infant Chris Aaron when he wouldn't stop crying: "Give me a break I am making this up as I go along!" The old crib regardless of how it was constructed has served us well. I am an old softy for walking down memory lane and it is very humbling and joyful to remember the wonderful babies that have slept in it, and got sick in it and spilled milk in it...

I consider being a Dad my greatest calling and I am eternally grateful for the blessings from God that wander about our house!

William enjoying his new "crib".

Long time no post

2008-03-08T15:12:00.003-07:00

It has been some time since I last posted here. I have been very busy as most of us are. Our family all had a bad virus or somthing and were down for a while with colds in February. We are better now and greatful to be healthy again. All is going well with us. Little William is not staying so little. It is amazing how babies grow so fast. He is doing well and has his bottom two teeth now. He also makes efforts daily to crawl. Will not be long until he is mobile and we are really looking for trouble then. The other kids are also well. Chris Aaron has his first job at 15. :)
He is a sign waver for an income tax company. He is one of those crazy folks you see on the curb waving a sign and wearing an uncle sam or statue of liberty costume. I am very proud of him... he works so hard and is learning the value of a dallor.
Rachel continues to impress her Dad very much with her talent on the piano. She also is doing baby sitting once in a while for different families. She is very good at it! I am very proud of her as well.
Kimberyl is enjoying her time with Girlscouts and is active in the Awanas group on wednesday nights. She was a real go getter with the cookie sales this year and did very well.
That leaves Jonathan... he is doing well in school and continues to have the motto of "I have never meet a video game I did not like." :)
My children are my life and they are very special to me!
Darcy has and continues to amaze me daily. She works so hard with the kids and taking care of the household.
Well as I sit here and write this I hear a baby waking up and I must go tend to that.
Hope you are all well!

Do you take your job for Granted?

2008-02-02T18:40:00.000-07:00

It is often taken for granted what we do for a living. I would say for those of us that are so blessed that we have a secure job for the most part and have worked at the same place for many years we probably take some things for granted. I began my full time career with the Colorado Air National Guard in 1989. I have been in the Air National guard militarily since 1987. It can confuse people when I talk about the two sides of my careers.. As simple as I can I will explain the difference: I have two careers so to speak, my “guard” or reserve commitment and the full time civilian side. I work 40 hours a week on the civilian side and then I have the same commitment as all guardsmen (One weekend a month and two weeks a year) although that has required more time the last 4 or 5 years with the whole thing in Iraq.
I am very thankful for this position and the provision it has given my family and myself. I am proud to have been able to serve this long and I hope to for a few years to come.
I have worked on or around fighter aircraft for all of these 20+ years and most of the time it just feels like what I do and I am fairly used to most of all the things that go with it.
The other day an aircraft landed on our airfield and this was not that unusual for me. I have seen it many times over the years. It is unusual by most any standard however. I am posting a picture that was taken literally out my office window.
We live in a wonderful Country! This is an election year and most of us grow tired of the whole thing by the time election time comes. We should remember however that the whole process we use to elect our President and other leaders is very special and we should never take it for granted! You may need to click on the photo and view it full size to see what is landing in the distance. Have a great weekend!

The blessing of friends; old and new!

2008-01-21T15:21:00.000-07:00

Last year I wrote an article for our Church newsletter. I am the driving force behind the newsletter so I get to take some liberties when I see fit and include my article as appropriate. Well the article was a tale about my childhood and a good friend of mine and his Family. This family was a large one with 7 children and two committed and great parents!

I shared how there home was a second one for me in many ways and how amazing it was that the house was always a hub of activity with all the friends of the children of the house over visiting and enjoying each other. Much more than this the parents of my best friend were the most special people. They were always free with their home, friendship, food and love! It was allways a good time to go there and feel so accepted and special!

Well I on a whim tried to find these special people and get them a copy of my article. It has been many years since I have seen them. Well it was achieved and though it has been some time, I got a wonderful note back from Clarice the mother of my best friend growing up. She expressed such gratitude and love back in her note I just felt so good recieving it. She also enclosed a picture of her wonderful family. It is very humbling to see this picture after so many years not being in contact with any of them, how did they all get so big (old) when I am still so young. :) Must mean I am getting older to.

Is wonderful to hear about them and to see that they are doing well!

Time is flying in the new year!

2008-01-18T22:00:00.000-07:00

The new year is well underway and it is hard to believe we are half way through the month. I have accomplished my first goal of 200 miles on bicycle for the month of January. I have actually had many days where I was able to ride outside. I have spent a lot of time on the spin cycle as well. I am enjoying getting back on the road and getting my cycling legs back so to speak.
My firstborn Chris Aaron turned 15 January 13th. I am so very proud of him as he has grown into a kind and responsible young man! Won't be long until he is wanting to drive and go on dates and ... Oie VEY I am not ready for this! :)
Life is going well in our house. Not too much going on out of the ordinary. I am so blessed with my wonderful family!
God Bless !
Chris

Shining day

2008-01-05T16:59:00.000-07:00

What a difference a couple days make. The weather turned wonderful today and I was able to ride a nice ride. About 20 and ½ miles. Up to Morrison and a little further. Was very windy which is not much fun going up hills with the wind pushing against you. Was fun coming back with the wind however. With the recent snow and the temperature in the high 50”s the snow was melting like mad and made for a wet ride. Was fun though. So that much cloer to my goal. If anyone is interested I have another site for logging mileage etc it is http://cpine.sweat365.com/
It’s a neat site and is free! I love the internet!
Have a great weekend!

Riding at night on snow and ice: I don’t recommend it

2008-01-02T09:41:00.000-07:00

Like a giddy child waiting to open Christmas gifts is how I have been feeling about getting back on my bicycle again and working towards my goal of 5000 miles in 2008. It sounds like a lofty goal. I guess in some ways it is. It really is not that lofty if you just are consistent at it and don’t stop chipping away at it. Like they say the way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time.
Well I was on baby duty yesterday so I could not go out and ride my bike until my wife got home at 8 pm last night. I was determined to get some miles in even if it was not much on January 1st to get this goal started off right. So when my beloved got home I was ready to go. Suited up in winter gear and determined to do this. So out into the brisk night air I went and it was not much fun! The temp was about 16 degrees and the sidewalks and streets were still horrible. Ice and snow everywhere still and difficult maneuver around . Well I did 6 miles and came home. I got some in and did what I had wanted to by at least doing something yesterday. I am so looking forward to the nicer days ahead. 4994 mile to go!

Goals

2008-01-01T09:26:00.000-07:00

Goals are an important part of our lives. I have set goals for myself since I can remember. I do not always accomplish them or even do well at pursuing them. I have had physical fitness goals, career goals, educational goals, financial goals and even goals for my marriage and relationship with my kids.
The setting of goals always seemed to me to be logical at the New Year. It’s a new year and what better time to focus on what you want to accomplish for that year.
Well I have set some goals for myself this year. I am not going to include all of my goals, but some that have me excited about the prospect of accomplishment in 2008
One such goal that I am excited about and find my mind going to often as the thoughts of what I need to do and schedule etc to accomplish it. No it is not a way to end poverty or world hunger. It is Bicycle 5000 miles in 2008.
Yes actually put in this mileage and still live and be able to walk to tell about it. A gentleman that did this in 2007 inspired me and he wrote about it in his own blog. http://www.calnan-web.com/weblog/
It is achievable and I plan on doing it!
I have some other goals as well.
Goals involving my family, my church, my woodworking projects and home remodeling etc. I hope you have a great 2008 and you have some goals of your own that make you excited and your plans to accomplish them are rewarding and worthy of your time.

Christmas

2007-12-26T19:21:00.000-07:00

Christmas has come once again and is now done! I love this time of year and the build up to Christmas Eve, then to Christmas morning when the children get to open there present under the tree.
We let them get the small things out of their stockings and the annual one gift from Mom present on Christmas Eve. "The one gift from Mom is always pajamas." (They all say it like a worn out mantra.)
We had a great time just being around family and enjoying our time together. While it does tire you out it also is great fun and makes memories, which will be cherished in future years to come.

We had a great Christmas day opening our gifts then eating a wonderful dinner of turkey and the trimmings. I tease my beloved about having turkey when I wanted roast beef! It still was good even though I say to her it did not want turkey as if I am an old grouchy fuddy duddy that complains all the time. J I got a few nice gifts… I was not looking fro anything this year especially when we made some recent purchase that made up for it very much. SO My Gifts came before Christmas this year! The gifts thing is really for the kids and they seemed to enjoy it! No they did not receive $400 games systems. They did not get a bunch of high end electronics. They did get some of the things they wanted and I am very proud of them in that they were just thankful for what the did receive and I did not here complaints about they did not get what they wanted. I hope all who read this had a great Christmas celebration! I look forward to 2008 being even better than 2007! God Bless you all.

I remember fire wood!

2007-12-18T22:18:00.000-07:00

Well I went and did it to myself again. One of my great money saving ideas has treated my body badly! I bought these two bundles of wood. I was tyold they are about a cord of wood a piece. Well I have not bought fire wood in a very long time. Usually I get offered some from neighbors that have cut down or trimmed a tree. So I have had enough just doing this for several years. Well finally running out and not liking the firewood prices around here I looked on the internet for some other options and I found it! This guy was selling bundles of firewood. That is unusual I thought. Upon further investigation The wood come froma sawmill.It is the off cuts of the outer parts of the log. SO it is a little smaller than wood you usually get but I thought that is ok it will burn like any other wood. The price is pretty good too! All I have to do is cut the wood into burneable lengths and stack it. Well those words have come back to haunt me. I spent the better part of 1 and 1/2 days cuttung and stacking. My kids helped and we got a little more than half way done. I still have most of the second bundle to cut and stack. My muscles and back are reminding me probably why I have not cut wood in a long time. I was so sore and stiff the next day! I guess the extra $40 or so per bundle to have it cut doesn't seem like too much now! :)

Have a great week!

The don't eat anything bigger than your head diet

2007-12-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Or watch this I can fit my whole fist in my mouth!

What other titles for this picture can you think of? :)

What's in a Name?

2007-12-06T22:07:00.000-07:00

What’s in a name?

I got to see a friend I first met in a war zone in 2003. He is from the Alabama National Guard and we were together in a still undisclosed location near Iraq when the war first started.
Seeing and talking with him again was so fun. It brought back good thoughts and memories when we were together with other folks who we now have in common as friends. Good thoughts because we were somewhere none of us would have picked yet we had to do what we had to do. So we made it bearable because of one another. If not for each other we would have been miserable.
His name is John and he had the nickname of “Jonny do good”! He got this nickname from always being so particular about procedure and following the letter of the law as far as technical data was concerned. He had with him another member of his unit and a man I am familiar with as we shared the same time mentioned earlier. His nickname is “Smack Daddy”… I have no idea why. This got me to remembering about the Unit from Alabama… without exception everyone of their guys had a nickname. There were many and I mean many! I could not even tell you a number that had the nickname Bubba…
Different variations Like “Bubba Pratt” or “Bubba Peecoaltrain”… on and on it went and they all knew one another by these names without missing a beat. It may sound kind of peculiar or even hokey but there was a certain charm about it and even a camaraderie that was something to be envied.
Growing up I was trying to remember the nicknames I possible had…I really don’t remember too much until I was an adult. I had a football coach once that called me “sticky Pine” I think as an attempt at a compliment. Meaning somehow my ball-handling prowess was equivalent to having sticky hands. I don’t know about that nickname but I guess I appreciate the effort.
When I was the “young kid” (22 years old) in our Guard unit some 20 years ago there was a man that called me “Pinecone”, again a spin on my name. That one stuck mostly with him and to this day when I see him from time to time he still calls me that.
There is another nickname I received at work and it is “2CP” which is short for “two cents Pine”. Referring to my tendency in a past life to listen during a briefing and then maybe towards the end briefly and definitively tell what I thought about the concepts presented whether I was asked my thoughts or not. This may or may not have been an approval of said concepts or objection. I will not share if I was equal in sharing the different viewpoints on said concepts.
So what’s in a name… perhaps not much, but I hope you enjoyed my entry about it.

Have a great week and weekend!

Terracycle

2007-12-05T00:02:00.000-07:00

One of the neatest companies I have seen in a while. I am not an environmental extremist... I like good or even great ideas when I see them. I think this companies ideas for some of there products and how they package their products are very inovative. I read about this company some time back ina business magazine while in a doctors office. Neat stuff!
Check it out!

http://www.terracycle.net/index.htm

Christmas Season

2007-12-01T20:22:00.000-07:00

I marvel at how fast it seems that time fly’s. It is December already and the winter months are well upon us and we are looking to celebrate Christmas and the New Year. I in looking back at the year of 2007 see how God has blessed my family and I in so many ways. Of course the addition of William Andrew to our family has been a huge blessing and he continues to charm and wow all of us on a daily basis. The baby of the house is well tended to with his 4 siblings always at the ready to help out Mom and Dad.
I am very blessed and thankful to the Good Lord for so many blessings in my life.
The Christmas Time each year is one of my favorite times. I enjoy the whole process of preparing for Christmas day. The decorations, the Christmas Hymns, the buying and giving of gifts, the food that is prepared for the times with family and friends. All of these things and times I really do love! I have been so fortunate to be with my family each year we have had Christmas since Darcy and I got Married, almost twenty years ago. I have some friends this year that will be in Iraq over the next couple months and will either celebrate Christmas with their families before they leave or when they return. I remember them at this time and I am thankful for their sacrifice. I almost feel guilty in some ways that I am not going with them this time.
The holidays this time of year: Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years, they say
statistically are the most difficult for many people. Bouts with depression and even suicides go up during this time each year. In some ways that is so hard to understand why that would be happening at such a joyous time of the year. The explanations are many. Perhaps some people are alone? Maybe their spouse has died and this time of year just is a reminder of their loneliness? There are a myriad of reasons people are hurting in this life and this time of year is exceptionally hard for many to cope with.
I believe you probably know some that struggle with this time of year. They probably will never say anything to anyone about it. They perhaps are reading this writing now and saying to themselves “Yes, that is me! I hate this time of year! “ Jesus Christ taught that we need to care for one another and I would challenge each of us to look around and take note of the people around us. We should all consider their feelings and even perhaps include them in our celebration?

Randy and Shelly Marshall

2007-11-18T15:00:00.000-07:00

Randy and Shelly Marshall Missionaries to Kiev in the Ukraine. I got to see them again today. It was wonderful to see them and get to visit. They are wonderful people and were living the American dream as newly a newly married couple. Shelly was a teacher and Randy a newspaper reporter. They seen a video at their church (in 1993) and felt called to go to the mission field. (Initially for one-year commitment.) They have been missionaries ever since. I very much appreciate and admire them both! Was very nice to get to see them again and visit.

May God bless them as they prepare to return to the mission field.

Diaper changing equipement

2007-11-12T17:05:00.000-07:00

I thought I had seen most everything. Take a look at this.. I can attest to the need for such devices! :) Why did I not think of this!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Got this from anotehr blog. Link is below.

...for the sprinkling wee-wee. This cone-shaped cloth product makes diaper changes dry and easy! The ultimate diapering accessories for boys; the perfect addition to any baby shower gift.

http://blacktieandflipflops.blogspot.com/2007/09/pee-pee-tee-pees.html

100% cotton / Each pack contains 5 Pee-pee Teepees™ / Fully washable and re-usable. Made in Canada

Zig Zag Chairs and Table

2007-11-12T13:15:00.000-07:00

As a woodwokrer I frequent many sources of information and inspiration on the internet. One of these forums is sawmillcreek.org . I seen a post by gentlemen that lives down under (Australia). He has made a table and chairs set with a zig zag pattern. This is one of the neatest things I have seen in a while for woodworking. It of course is woodworking but the engineering and the joinery is to be especially admired! Check this out!

The table is made from a wood called "jarrah". It is gorgeous as you can see... oh and for those who are a perhaps somewhat critical or pessimistic of the design and its ability to safely support the weight of the person seated...

Combined weight of about 575 lbs. I think it will hold me even though I am overweight some. :)

Like I said I think this is one of the neatest things! The design and execution are very well done.

The gentlemans name that designed and built this is David Dundas and he lives in Elimbah, SE Queensland, Australia .

An article about the chair is here: http://www.festoolusa.com/Web_files/Domino_WCM_zigzag.pdf

Also the Forum entry about it here:http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=58932

Now back to my making some cutting boards. :)

Date with Wife

2007-11-09T17:32:00.000-07:00

There are lots of jokes out there about the husband and wife relationship. Recalling some of which the jest of it are "Why would I date my wife I allready married her?" Or when the wife complains that when the now husband was dating her he was always looking for ways to spend every waking free moment with her and now he hardly ever spends time with her. His response was somthing like: " when I was dating you I was trying to win your heart, now that I have done that I have moved on to other goals." :)
Well I hope I never give any of these impressions to my wonderful bride. I enjoy being with her and love the fact that I have her with me in this thing we call life!
We were able to go out and get some lunch. We left William with his big sister and made our way to a dive place that serves pretty good mexican food. Like I say, the building and interiro is nothing to write home about but the food is pretty good! They even have homemade tortilla chips.. you know they deep fry them right there.. yummy. (Not probably very good for me but taste good non the less). Was an enjoyeable time to spend talking about things and just have an hour or so to get away from everything and just focus on each other without any distractions.

Another day...

2007-11-05T20:27:00.001-07:00

Was a very nice day. I suppose partly due to the fact I got up at around 07:00 and went to my computer. Checked email then went to craigslist and found in the tool section something I could not believe. An 18-inch Delta drum sander for $250. This is crazy I thought this is like a $1000 plus machine. So I emailed and sure enough they said yes we want to get rid of it and we still have it. I emailed back “ I will be right over”. I grabbed my Son Chris Aaron and said come with me I am going to need your muscle. SO he went with me and sure enough it was all they said it was and worked perfectly. SO I now have even less room in my garage/workshop. I am very excited and happy to be able to have this. I would have never bought one of these except for this terrific price!
Oh and another craisglist thing I seen was in the free section: Loose blown insulation. It was an insulation company that had removed a house worth of used but very useable insulation from a home andthey could not re-use it. SO they offered it up for free. I went to investigate and sure enough the stuff was clean dry and as they said useable. Well We stuffed two of these very large bags into my vehicle along with the machine and headed home. I now also have insulation in the attic above the garage/workshop.
I love free stuff! :)

I will be working nightshift this next week. Good news is I will have friday off. I love days off! :)

Peace

Neat website

2007-11-01T20:16:00.000-06:00

Found this website while on the net the other day. This is really a neat concept and I can see how it could make a big difference. It is a way which you can loan money to impoverished people around the globe to help them with their business. They pay the money back and it is returned to you.(Or you can reloan it) You must have a paypal account to use it but it is simple enough to set that up. We are so blessed in this country. Check it out, some of these enterprising people want such a humble amount, yet it could make a big differance to their business and lives. Great idea! I have my first loan allready made out.
http://www.kiva.org
Have a good day!

William Dedication

2007-10-28T20:40:00.000-06:00

Today we had Williams dedication at church. he is such a blessing to us! The scripture of Psalm 127 comes to mind in verse4 "Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one's youth. "

When I read this I snicker... I don't feel like it is my "youth" anymore. :) But I suppose it is.

Hope you are well!

I hereby call a family meeting.

2007-10-26T12:05:00.000-06:00

We had family time together last night. This is something I am glad to say we are starting to do in a semi formal manner. We plan a couple evenings a month when the TV is turned off and the video games put aside and we have discussion over dinner then talk about some of the things we want to accomplish/do as a family. Was a good time last evening. We talked about fire safety and proper phone manners(Neither of which my children are lacking I must say). We talked about some goals of ours as far as paying off our debt and doing some different things. We played a board game together. Was a fun time. I couldn't’t ask for a nicer family!
I discovered a couple websites recently and would recommend them for what they are worth.
One is a very simple website that is called 43 things. It is a goal setting site where you establish your own log in and set goals for yourself and you can write how your doing. Others can see your entries and comment or offer advice. It will allow you to set a reminder to email you to keep working towards your goal. Kind of fun! If you want to view my list you can do a search on their for “cpine” and you will find me.Be sure to put this in the search box at the top of the webpage. I only have 16 things so far. :
http://www.43things.com/

The other site I have known about for some time but had not looked at it recently. It is different now and offers articles from members of the site. So if you have been dieing to share your secret to the perfect pie crust or how to change the water pump on the 53 Buick you drive daily then this site if for you. Step up to your authordom!
http://www.ehow.com/

Have a great weekend!

Family!

2007-10-24T05:33:00.000-06:00

I had no idea when Darcy and I first got married we would some day almost 20 years later have 5 children. This was not a reality to me that I would be this blessed. I count it as a privilege and blessing from God that He has blessed us this much. My family is everything to me! I love them more than anything in this world and they are the first priority for me. This of course is in its proper context and the good Lord enables Darcy and I to care for them as best we can.
We have heard so many comments along the way while having our growing family that have made us feel great. When people would find out we were having another child they would burst for joy for us and the new blessing from God. By the way Darcy and I both believe very strongly that children are a blessing from God! This is not just a trite saying for us, it is indeed true and we do our best everyday to live with this in mind. These are precious gifts of life and purposeful potential for the betterment of society and much more they are dear people whom God loves.
Then the other side of the coin, we have had some very ignorant and demeaning comments as well. Stuff like someone snidley saying“your having another one?” “How many kids are you going to have?” Even had someone tell me “children are a blessing from God as long as you can afford them.” I trust you get the idea? The comments did not make us feel good and honestly for me, internally at least, was a source for anger. I do not believe the majority of these comments were intended as insults. People just don’t think much sometimes before speaking.
Why would anyone say anything negative? Such words like “Congratulations” or “How wonderful” are appropriate. Instead we have received from some people demeaning and rude comments.

Bottom line is I apologize for nothing in regards to having my five blessings from God. I love them each and every one and I see such incredible potential in them!
I thank God daily for my family and that I am able to be their Dad and husband!

Funeral

2007-10-23T14:22:00.000-06:00

We had the funeral for my Aunt today. She had turned 90 this last spring. I came to the realization that it has been just over 5 years since my Uncle Lee had passed away. I can hardly believe it has already been 5 years. I remember when we had his funeral and I had to go out of town the next day with work. I had mixed emotions: I was thankful I could be there as it was that day, but sorry that he was gone.
I was able to talk to my cousin, who is my Aunts grandson and he was telling me how my Aunt would often talk about how she was ready to die and go on home. I suppose many older people have expressed similar feelings, especially when losing a spouse after 49 years of marriage. I can only imagine how difficult that is and hope it is a very long time until I know that reality. There have been thoughts on that issue: “Do you want to die first or do you want your spouse to go ahead of you?” There was one story of the elderly man answering “I want her to die first because I don’t want her to have the pain of losing me.” Sound logical then there are the perhaps more selfish “I want to die first so I don’t have to have the pain of losing my spouse”.
We also talked about the typical fun things we remembered about them both. Like my Uncle for like 40 years lived in the house he owned and never would park the car in the garage. Until like the last 5 years before he died he finally was using the garage. Not only did he not park there it was always empty! Funny… the parking area (if you were to actually park a car there} was always empty. No boxes or anything storage wise just floor.
It is funny sometimes what you remember. I remember very clearly, when I was a teenager, being over one day to my Aunt and Uncles House and her sharing with me what she had read in that particular days devotional from her devotional book. The jest of it was that if you were tried in a court of law for being a Christian would their be enough evidence to convict you? Well Aunt Melva, I find you guilty as charged! There is no way to deny it! You lived your life as a Christian, you used your money as a Christian would, and you even treated people around you like Christ would! Not to mention how you cared for your family. (I included) I can’t help but to find you guilty!
I have some feelings of regret; in that my children will never know them as I did. I so wish that could have been possible.
Like I have said in my two previous posts I sure will miss my Aunt and Uncle, but I know they are much better off in Glory with there maker and Lord.

I have this “vision” if you will of my Aunt and Uncle in heaven sitting at a table playing cards or yahtzee or some other game as they so often would.
It’s a good picture I have of them together again.
Who knows maybe some of their friends that have preceded them are their playing too.

Have a great day!

Melva Hirth another Photo.

2007-10-21T08:38:00.001-06:00

Found this old photo of My Aunt Melva and MY Dad (John Pine) . He of course is the younger one.

Not sure when this was taken.. My Dad is now 77... (I think) :)

I have wonderful memories of my Aunt. She lived a long and fruitful life. I will miss her!

In Loving Memory Melva Hirth

2007-10-20T11:17:00.000-06:00

I got word yesterday that My Aunt Melva passed away Thursday night. I have written several times on here about my Aunt Melva and Uncle Lee. They were very influential people in my life growing up and even as an adult I cherish them dearly. While I will miss her very much I am glad that she will no longer suffer and she is in the comfort of Her Lord and Savior. It is always difficult to say goodbye to loved ones but it is part of this life. The reflection I always seem to come around to is how will I live my life, how will I treat people that I interact with daily and how will they reflect on my life when I one day pass on? I hope they will look at my life with as much endearment as I do for my Aunt Melva. I love her very much and will miss her!

Funeral will be Tuesday.

William Tell Mom Sayings

2007-10-19T11:37:00.001-06:00

While I am not a mother, I can attest that this is very accurate. :) Funny

Huggies

2007-10-17T20:45:00.000-06:00

I was changing William just a little bit ago and he was complaining how we were cheap skates that we would use a knock off brand of diaper instead of springing for the "Huggies" (The cadillac of Diapers) . Man you can't please some people! No matter what you do.

Rat Race

2007-10-17T20:08:00.000-06:00

Seems like work is never going to calm down. We got through the inspection and now must prepare for a major deployment that is upon us very soon. Well so much can go haywire and it seems like it almost always does. We had a mini melt down right before I left today. They were scrambling to get volunteers to cover for a un-expected circumstance or a lousy planned execution of this event. I have a pessimistic belief it was probably more the latter than the former. Well such is life I suppose. We will get through this just like we got through all the other things in the past. Just seems like no matter how much you give they ask for more. I am blessed to have a job that provides so well for my family but it can get very stressful and exhausting.
Hope you are all well!

Babies: The emotional response to a bad day

2007-10-08T14:55:00.000-06:00

I sit here with my baby William on my chest. I just feed him his bottle and he very contently has fallen asleep on my chest and is making those adorable baby sounds that they do when they are asleep. I can remember over the years how my children ,especially when they were babies, have brought me out of the blues and back to what is important. I recal one time when I did not get selected for a promotion and I came home that day to my children and had to take care of them that evening. (Darcy was working that night) . I remember very clearly feeding Rachel her bottle and looking into her baby eyes and the cares of the workplace and the outside world just melted away. Not too mushy I hope? :) My kids are my life and family is everything! I can't even imagine going through this life without them! My little William is of course our latest addition to this family of ours. I am proud of him to say the least. He has in the same way, several times put things in perspective for his worrying father. The stress of the last several months really has been difficult but made that much easier with William and his just being here with us!

We Passed!

2007-10-08T14:08:00.000-06:00

We Passed! I can’t tell you what a relief this is! I got a call just a few minutes ago from my work and the Lieutenant gave me the word that we indeed did pass the Inspection! Deep sigh! Thank GOD!
I am so relieved and can maybe get focused back to a more normal life for a while, but then again what is that? What does a normal life look like? :)
Thank you all for your kind words!

ENDEX!

2007-10-07T10:08:00.000-06:00

Well the inspection is over! (ENDEX= End exercise) It is a weight off of my and everyone else's shoulders. We did well by all indications we have at this point. Was a long week and I am so glad it is over. Thank you all again for your encouragement, well wishes and your prayers. I go in today and we will probably get some briefings but the Inspectors out brief will be Tuesday.
I had a few personal exercise inputs and I did well. I was fortunate that the "tests" were on things I was very familiar with. :) Of course we are a team and we worked together, and did well.
Had some real world inputs as well. I am so glad it was not more serious when one of our members hit his head on missile fin. He was cut badly and was taken to the the hospital. Gladly he is all right. The response to this was sited by the inspectors as outstanding. So i guess we do have some practical uses for this training. What do you know!

Thanks!

Midnight Oil

2007-10-05T00:50:00.001-06:00

I am writing to you after the first of 4 days of inspection. Actually the inspection will officially begin in the next couple of hours at 3am. I worked a very different schedule today. Went in at 6 until noon. then came home went back in at 8 until midnight... now I am on the 1600 TO 0400 shiftfor next three days. I am so tired of the scrutiny we have been looking at programs, paperwork, procedure and even attitudes and whatever else we could scrutinize. Of course in an effort to prepeare for inspection. I am just ready for it to be over with. I think we will do fine and will be interesting to see what it will be like after. Has been since last April we have been under the gun so to speak.
I am just unwinding a bit before I go to bed. I have studied so many documents that I am not sure I can remember much of anything anymore. I am tired of the whole thing honestly. (Did I say how tired I was?)
Thankyou all for your support and kindness!
Will let you know how it comes out!

Hard week at the office

2007-10-02T20:57:00.000-06:00

Big week for me at work. The inspection will start early Friday morning. It has been the most stressful time at work in a long time. I did not really even feel this much tension when we were activated. We had different things on our minds I guess. We were more focused I suppose on the broader perspective. Here we are focused on it seems an endless barrage of minut details… It is exhausting. Will be grateful when we are through with it and can focus on future things.
This last Sunday was very neat in that we had Jason and Kerensa McFrederick (See picture) in our church. They are missionaries with the Wesleyan church to the Czeck Republic. They are such great people and I am so proud to know them. They are working on getting their support together and plan on returning to the mission field this next February.
Also it has been a while since I posted a picture of our Dear William. Allready ahs been over a month since he was born on August 25… so without further ado

The Old house

2007-09-29T15:51:00.000-06:00

On a trip home today I went by an old familiar place to take a look. It was my Aunt Melva’s and Uncle Lee’s house. (Picture of me and My aunt many years ago) The neighborhood is an older one and as many older neighborhoods do the area is in decline. The houses are not cared for like they were many years ago. The people who live there are working folks who are no doubt doing all they can to care for their families and make ends meet.
The property some how looks so much smaller now. The tree’s that were in the front yard and provided so many hours of climbing when I was a child are gone now. The back yard that seemed so huge when I would mow it, is worn away and in neglect.
I have so many wonderful memories of this location but the house and property are not where my fondness lies. My fondness lies with the beloved people who once lived there.
I remember painting the house and getting $20 and how great that made me feel. I remember mowing the lawn countless times. Getting haircuts from my Aunt in the small dining room and having to clean up the hair afterwards. My Uncle telling me anything I have is yours too. I remember Thanksgiving Day dinners with a whole lot of family in this little house.
Memories are a wonderful thing. I hope I give my family friends and neighbors a similar environment of good will and good memories in the future... One day maybe a long time from now they will drive by the house and say “ it sure looks smaller than I remember, and look how the new owners are not caring as well as Chris did". (Although I doubt they will say that as my lawn is in desperate need of attention.

Have a good weekend!

The Shirt off my Back

2007-09-27T12:25:00.000-06:00

Have you ever had a relationship with someone where you would do anything for them? You would go to the ends of the earth for them, give them the shirt off your back… etc? I have been blessed to have many relationships like this. I have worked with some very good people over my career and have even spent time in various places around the globe with them, doing dreadful duty that was only not so dreadful because we went through it together and lived to tell about it. I have the utmost respect for these people and would do just about anything for them.
Then there are those that think because they have gotten a degree and been "commissioned" that they are now a part of this close knit group. Well not even close. The proverbial dues have not been paid! When they have gone where we have gone and done what we have done for about 20 years together then they will be able to have a chance at this kind of mutual respect and camaraderie.
I want to make it very clear that I am not an Officer hater. I have respect for there rank first of all. They indeed did have to meet some very stringent standards to get to where they are. They are only worthy of the rank they wear by their efforts.
Secondly I have worked with some officers that are indeed part of the group that I was talking about in the first paragraph.

Third: A jerk is a jerk no matter what the rank on the shoulder.

Have a good day!

Stressful week!

2007-09-22T19:00:00.000-06:00

What an amazing week I had. The stress level was about as high as I can remember at work. This inspection is very important and we have had folks from Guard bureau and other bases in to inspect us down to the very minutest of details. While it is necessary and it is ultimately appreciated it is very stressful and is getting very old. We have had so many changes as well to the supervisors and leadership that it is hardly recognizable as the same unit it was 6 months ago. Is particularly difficult to see my supervisor get moved out of the area I work in. We had a good relationship and expectations were understood and we worked very well together. My supervisor as such at this time is a Lieutenant who is very much a go getter and is driven and all but really has no idea about the workings of day to day operations etc… as far as I know this is a temporary arrangement and another supervisor will eventually be put into this position. The whole part about the future not being known and what to expect is particularly difficult for me. The next two weeks will be very important and very busy no doubt. I can’t wait to get passed this and move on. Just two more weeks…just two more weeks… :)
Today was a welcome break from the work week... I am doing the message at church tomorrow. I am mostly prepared as I do this once in a while and the last time I was suppose to we got snowed out. That was last December. So what I originally prepared back then still works for now.
William is growing like a weed! It has already been 4 weeks ago that he was born. He is sleeping during the night kind of... not all night long by any means. Some nights are better than others.. He is a baby! :)
Had a good friend and faithful member of my church go home to be with the Lord this last week. Wayne Turner was a blessing to each of us and will be dearly missed! I will miss him and I am so grateful that he is no longer dealing with the health issues and the struggles that this mortal life consists of.
Can't help but notice the leaves on the tree's starting to change and the sun going down sooner. Won't be long and we will be dealing with the winter season and the snow that goes with it. I love the Christmas season but the cold weather I could just as soon not deal with. :)
It all goes together I suppose.

Hope you all are well.

Watch this...

2007-09-17T20:08:00.000-06:00

Watching people is always interesting. I had some errands today and stopped for lunch at a local fast food establishment. I sat and ate while I watched people come in for their lunchtime. I can’t remember what it is called but there are groups of names for different classes of people and it really is true how you can see by how folks dress what financial group they belong to. Of course there are always exceptions but mostly it is true. You had the work uniform clothed gentlemen from the auto repair garage across the street. They had short sleeves shirts on with a mural of tattoo’s running up and down their arms from wrist to shoulder. Then there was the young couple eating together with more formal look to them like they might work in an office of some type. They were dressed with the shirt and slacks with loafers. Then there was this middle aged man and his wife he was dressed more like a doctor or other professional would dress in their time off. Nice dress shoes, dress slacks and belt and golf type shirt with very nice watch. What’s the point? I don’t know… just interesting how all these people liked junk food and were all there together to partake. Were these people happy? What struggles were they dealing with in their lives? Did they like their jobs? Did they have a happy home and marriage? Thing is all these people are just like us. They have dreams, struggles, desires, hopes, they are pursuing happiness etc. We all have the tendencies to look at others and imagine they have it so good and if I was them I would … and so it goes... the grass is greener…you know the saying. Hard for me to be too pessimistic when I have it so good and the good Lord has blessed me so much!
I have so much to be thankful for.
Well I am back to work tomorrow and I have talked with some of my co-workers today, and they have stirred things up again with some supervisors being moved around. Including my boss who I have been working with in one way or another since I started in the unit in 1987. Change is very hard to deal with! I had my supervisor and one of my co-workers call me today to let me know what is going on. One of them said it is not anything we can’t handle but it’s the most pressure he has seen in his time out there. Which is saying something, as he has been there longer than I. We have never to my knowledge failed or received a “marginal” on an inspection that I know of. Will be a very tough few weeks I am guessing. Our inspection is the weekend of the 6th and 7th of October. Will be a relief to get it over with. The improvements I have seen make me fairly confident we will pass the retake OK. Just is that time until then preparing and waiting is going to be very stressful. The apprehension of the un-known … I suppose that is what fear really is by definition? I don’t care for it too much.

Hope everyone is well!

Salvage

2007-09-15T17:15:00.000-06:00

I had a 1972 Chevy Nova for my first car. This was in 1982... do the math the vehicle was not new by any means. I spent a lot of time back then in the salvage or as some folks more affectionately call it the "junk yard". There is one near me that you can actually go into the yard and pull your own parts off from the old or wrecked vehicles. I have always kind of liked this as I can look around and do my version of bargain shopping.
Well this morning I made a trip once more to the junk yard. I thought about it and it had been a long time since I had gone their. I have been spending some of my time off ,while I can, working on our vehicles doing maintenance and fixing some things I had been neglecting. My car has had a speaker out since I bought it 4 years ago. SO I thought why not fix that too. Upon further investigation and the best the guy at the Ultimate electronics could do was $100 for a new pair of speakers.. I decided to try At junk yard. Well I came home with 6 speakers and harnesses etc for $10. Why 6? Well I was there. :) Wanted to make sure I got at least one that worked. Well I checked them all out and 5 out of the 6 work. I now have all my speakers in my vehicle working... Not sure what to do... Never had that before on this vehicle.. Is nice.

Snow Days

2007-09-13T23:00:00.000-06:00

Cute little websight. Kindof a time killer sight. Remember when you used to make snowflakes in gradeschool by folding the paper and cutting with scissors? Here it is in the 21st century! I seen this on another persons blog. (I am not above stealing. :) )

Check it out. http://www.popularfront.com/snowdays

Automotive Maintenance Prowess!

2007-09-13T21:32:00.000-06:00

Today was a day for car maintenance. What I could fit in that is between playing… I mean caring for William. I wrote some time back about the horrible squealing sound my car has been making for a while now. It is sometimes louder than other times. I determined that I believed it to be a certain part called the belt tensioner. A rather ingenious device actually that had a coil spring inside with a pulley that holds the serpentine belt on the car under tension, thus the name. I had replaced this part within the last year. I had gotten it from Auto Zone. Most of the time the parts I require to maintain our vehicles it is fine to buy them from this store. However this device I determined would probably be best to get the dealer part.(After the fact that I had bought the inferior part last time) Dealer parts for those that don’t know most of the time are more expensive, but they also tend to be better quality as well. This morning I went to the dealer and got the new tensioner. $75. Ouch… but ok… the part indeed was better quality and I just want my engine to stop making this horrible sound.
SO I changed out and reinstalled the belt. Started the vehicle and still squealing. Not as loud but still squealing. Arghhhh!
Well the short of it I removed the belt once more (By now I am very good at this as I have done it so many time this past year) and decided to take a small wire brush and some degreaser and clean every pulley. There was some built up grime on them. I then went the extra mile while I was at it and scrubbed down the belt as well prior to one last reinstallation. It was time for one more moment of truth… I am the proud owner of a quiet, non squealing vehicle this evening. Man I am so happy! Now did the tensioner I spent the money on today make the squeal go away or did my cleaning everything make this happen and if so did I essentially waste $75… Well your guess is as good as mine! I am good to go for a while, I hope on this issue! I did fix up some other things on the vehicle as well… small things : vent window motor, jack storage mounting hardware, oil change, steering wheel cover…Actually was an enjoyable afternoon. Weather was beautiful and was able to keep my cool while working and not hurt anything or myself.
For those that have fallen asleep probably half way through the above story I apologize.
We have this lap top computer that we bought a couple years ago and the batter had gotten to a point where it only lasted about 20 minutes on a charge… that was optimistic. We ordered (EBAY) a new battery and this is an upgrade as well. The battery is larger and supposedly better in its lasting power etc. I am here to tell you it is great! It has been lasting about 2 and ½ hours before needing to be charged again. This also makes me happy! Small things you know!
Again William is doing fine… He is not sleeping completely through the night yet but he is doing ok. He has grown! It is hard to believe even after 4 previous children how fast they grow and change. HE is less than three weeks old and you can see how much bigger he is! I love this time when they are little like this. I like all the stages of my childrens lives but this time has always been very special to me.
Hope you all are well!

So Cute!

2007-09-11T18:59:00.000-06:00

Saw this on another blog and thought it was so cute! So I stole it! :)

9-11

2007-09-11T17:53:00.000-06:00

Of course today’s date needs no explanation to the majority of Americans and perhaps most people around the globe. Of course I am referring to the anniversary of the Attack on our country and on the Twin Towers in New York City. While I agree to some degree and I can relate with those that would say we always focus on this day. Will we ever get past it? Will we ever move on?
I think at the same time it is very important that we never forget what happened that day. People were murdered. People like you and me, Going to work to feed their families. They had the same type of plans and thoughts that we all share; they were looking forward to the evening meal with their young children. Some no doubt had plans for the following weekend. They had vacation plans and perhaps even plans for lunch that very day. Point being is these were not soldiers on some battlefield far far away. They we us! They were attacked and killed by the cowardly, radical, scum of the earth that perpetrated this travesty. I do not wish and am not going to get into politics, conspiracy theories or any other controversial issues that surround things like this. But I do reflect on this day in 2001. As many of you know I am full time technician with Colorado Air National Guard. I was at work that day. We were preparing for a normal day of training. We had training flying scheduled that day. Well as we all know now it was not to be a “normal day”.
After the attacks on the second tower and shortly after the Pentagon we had orders from higher headquarters to reconfigure the aircraft with live missiles and full complement of external fuel tanks. We began flying what is called “CAP” mission. (Close Air Support)
Basically staying airborne in a certain quadrant and available for whatever would be required.
My emotions and those of my fellow Guardsmen were held below the surface to enable us to get our job done, but it is fair to say they were some of sorrow, anger and determination to do whatever we had to. Much like most of you were feeling. Well since that day our unit has had an “Alert” mission. That day changed everything.
I remember that day with many of these same emotions. Anger! Sorrow! Determination to have a free and safe country to live in!

William is doing very well and his mother my beloved is doing well also. It is so much fun to have him in our home. He is such a blessing! He will be three weeks old this next Saturday already!
Its funny how when you have time off how you don't get much done. Me at least. I have been off for the majority of the last couple weeks and as always I went into it thinking I will get all of this stuff done. It really is true when they say that busy people get things done. :) Yes we have had this new baby but if I use that it would be an excuse nothing more. I sure am enjoying the relaxing though.

Hope you all are well!

Lazy Day

2007-09-10T22:30:00.000-06:00

Was a lazy day today. Spent most of day inside doing some computer work and misc. Mostly I just rested and did not accomplish much. Was nice after the tiring weekend.
Had two-day exercise and for most purposes it went well. I made a mistake and was very quickly brought out by the inspectors. I could try and explain it but it would not make much sense to any of you. Not because you are not smart because it is not that important and not really that interesting. Bottom line is I, in an effort to make the task at hand process faster, expedited a few steps and that made the inspection team a little anxious. I knew better and should not have done it the way that I did. I did not endanger anyone or anything but it was just not the proper sequence for this particular process.
It will no doubt be brought out in the inspection report and I will no doubt get talked to. This is fine, I can take the correction, but it frustrates me that I had this moment of bad judgment. It is not a huge deal but something I wish I had done differently. I was definitely under the scrutiny of the inspection team for a while there. This was not fun. All turned out well and the airplane flew the next day with no problems… the military lives, breathes and dies by the numbers. When you deviate even a little you get attention very quickly and not positive attention either.
I helped my Daughter Rachel hang a dressing mirror in her room. She is such a young lady now. Not my little girl anymore.(Although she will always be that to me) I had her do most of the work.. I helped. She did a great job. This was the type of mirror without a frame around it at all. So it is just the beveled mirror glass and you use those plastic fasteners to hang it. I always get nervous with this type of thing. So much do not want to break it. All is well… it is hanging and looks good.

I found some more pictures and sent them off to reunion folks for there photo presentation. Is really fun seeing these bring back lots of good memories.
I found this one of our friend Bart. This was at his wedding in 1996. We took a few days and flew to his wedding. I remember this was like one of the first trips Darcy and I made away from our children. We had two back then (Hardly could even call us parents yet with only two). He is a Pastor in Minnesota now. We went to Bartlesville Wesleyan College Back in the 1980’s.
I was able to listen to one of his sermons thanks to the technological prowess of his Wife Claudia. Just hearing their voices makes me miss them. I consider them good friends, we sure have had fun whenever we have been together. Even though we have not gotten together in years I still consider them close.
I will have the rest of this week off from work and return next Tuesday. This really has been a blessing for me to have some time off. Has been fun and I really cherish the time with William and the rest of my family.
Would be great to know who is out there reading my blog now. Don’t be shy! Email me or leave a comment. Would be great to hear from you.

Asteroids

2007-09-06T22:15:00.000-06:00

Not too much to Blog today. Was a fairly uneventful day. Looking to the weekend as I have Guard drill and will be working the nightshift once again. Another exercise to practice for the Inspection in October. Went to work today long enough to get my gear so I am prepared come Saturday. The lovely chem. Warfare gear. YUCK!
Well I do have a website for you all.. For the old school video game folks here is an ok assortment of games to play free online…
Remember when they cost a quarter?
http://myreality.com/fun.html

Picture: Worth a thousand Words!

2007-09-05T21:28:00.000-06:00

I was looking through some pictures today. Not just pictures but what appears to be thousands of negatives, slides and prints. The entire said photo’s are in mostly a random order. I was trying to locate some from my college days 20+ years ago so I could scan them and email them to Reunion committee for a presentation they want to put together for homecoming party this year. Well it was interesting the things you think about when sifting through such memorabilia. First impression was a little frustration because I just know that these certain photo’s had to be in here somewhere and I do not want to give up until I find them. Well I found some but not all of the ones I wanted.
Oldest Child Chris Aaron when he was about 2 weeks old

Secondly in wading through the literally thousand or more different pictures form the past 20 or so years I come to realize how much time has gone by and how much life has been lived since that time. Makes me tired just thinking about it. You see your firstborn when he was a brand new baby… “Oh he is so cute!” (He is now 14 and is still cute I guess, but you can’t hold him on your chest and let him fall asleep like you could back then. I can see for myself the progression of children pictures as they each were added to our family and there were pictures with two children, then 3 then 4… and from now on 5 :) They also all seem to be getting larger in the pictures as well. Go figure.
I see pictures from my early days as an aircraft mechanic and remember how I loved just grabbing my tool box and working on the aircraft all day. I was only in charge of myself and doing the job at hand. Those were the days! “The work was good the weather was fine and they actually were paying me to do this!” Can you believe it! Life was good!
I see how I have aged, even if it was gracefully. I see how my wife has not and looks as beautiful as she always has.
When I was leaving college at Bartlesville it was kind of difficult as I was going to miss it. I see that it has proven true what I was told; “the best is yet to come.”
My life has been a blur of baby’s being born, diapers being changed, bills being paid, birthdays and Christmas times being celebrated and so life goes on. Time has flown and definitely we have been having fun.
I am a blessed man and I humbly thank the good Lord for this!

I imagine not to many years from now my older children will begin their journey into college or careers and into their adventure of adult life. My hope and prayer for them is that they have the quality of friends, the wonderful spouse, the great children and all around good life that I have been blessed with.
Thirdly- In looking on the website and pictures of the alums .I keep looking at the very pretty wives of these guys I knew back then and I can’t help but wonder “How did he get her to marry him?” I guess I fall into that same question from them. :) (Just Joking!)
I guess memories are a good thing mostly. The good ones seem to stay fresher in our memory than the bad. That is a very good thing I suppose. The question is, what to do with the next 20+ years? God willing I will be able to continue to look back at the wonderful blessings and be thankful all the more.

A day off of work is usually a good day!

2007-09-04T09:00:00.000-06:00

Had a great day. I love being off of work. William is doing pretty good sleeping through the night. Then like I said before I don’t typically have to get up with him either. :)
He is doing well!
Was able between helping with William a little (really not too much to it). Darcy needs a nap once in a while and that is no problem. It’s only been 10 days since she labored and gave birth. (Seems like longer).
I was able to get the door handle on our Toyota van fixed. Hopefully it will last. A part inside the handle had slipped loose and was not working so it would not open the door. Was able to fix this by just refastening a few things. If it stays that was a free fix so to speak. Just my time… I like that! I also finally changed some rear light bulbs on the vehicle so hopefully that will take care of that.
We took William and some of the other kids for a walk up to the school playground this evening. He enjoys being out in the warm summer air I think. It also offers opportunity for his mother and father to show him off to other parents in the neighborhood. He always gets attention wherever he goes. :)
It is nice to have a little time to get some things done around the house. I am enjoying helping with the kids and doing some odd things that have been neglected for some time. So is a nice time. We had a friend of Darcy’s from her home school connections bring us dinner tonight. Was very good. I love the pesto type pasta. This is part of what she brought us. Yummy!

Monday Monday

2007-09-03T17:55:00.000-06:00

Had a nice time yesterday at church. This being Williams first time at church he was the celebrity. Everyone was holding him and looking at the adorable baby. I do the announcements in the morning service and opening prayer at church. I broke down emotionally thanking our congregation for providing meals all week. I did not anticipate this and while I am not ashamed or anything it sometimes frustrates me that I can’t seem to control those emotions. I do love my church family.
We also had a special evening service in the mountains. This was a lot of fun. When we first got there the sun was shining and weather was nice. Well not to long and it was raining away and thunder and lightning was going string. Kind of funny actually, just moments before we were saying “I think the storm missed us.” Well it did not miss us it went full force at us. Was still an enjoyable time. We had a shelter to stand under. Had food fellowship and some devotions lead by yours truly. Well it really was not that difficult, just a time of sharing what many of us had been studying in scripture. There was a funny moment where I had just started to speak and the thunder struck really loud. Everyone was laughing, I said “Are you all paying attention?”

Dalene and Jonathan Snuggling to get warm.

I will be off for the next couple week except for the middle weekend, as I have to do my monthly Air Guard weekend. I cherish this time with William and the rest of my family. After having 4 children it is so very real to me how fast they grow up. They are not little babies very long.
I have had this horrible squeak in my cars engine compartment for like the last 8 months. I have looked and tried to isolate the noise. I knew it was a belt squeaking I just could not figure out why it was doing that. It had gotten worse in recent weeks and this last Saturday I was finally able to get a chance to try and figure it out. Well I still could not figure out what exactly was causing it. I had planned on degreasing the engine compartment. This may sound obsessive compulsive to some degree, but buying the can of degreaser and cleaning your engine compartment when at the carwash goes a long ways to making your working on your car experience more pleasant. Well after cleaning the engine compartment mysteriously and wonderfully the belt squeak is now gone. Hallelujah! I love it when something is fixed and I don’t really have to do much work!
Have a good Week!

One week Old!

2007-09-02T08:35:00.000-06:00

Well it has been close to a week since I posted anything to the Blog. It has been a very busy and eventful week with William coming home. We are enjoying him everyday. He sleeps a lot like most babies do. He is a joy. When he is awake he sometimes is wiggly and is a lot of fun to play with during his daily “workout” time :)
So far he is such an easygoing baby… Does not fuss much at all and when he does you know that he is either hungry or needs to be changed or burped. That is about it so far. He is doing very well as is his Mother. I thank the good Lord for this blessing and those of health and happiness in our family!
He really is doing well with sleeping at night. Of course I do not typically get up with him as Darcy is feeding him so as far as I know he is sleeping mostly all night except at feeding times. It is hard to believe he is already a week old. Time has gone by so quickly. Today will be his first time at church. All week long people have been bringing the evening meals to us. This has been so wonderful, to not have to prepare the meal and the food has been very good! I again say Thank you to all involved!
With the birth of William I have had an awakening to the intent to not miss this time of his life. That sounds kind of peculiar when I write it like that. Babies grow up so fast and they hardly are little long enough. I love my children of course at all stages and ages. When they are little like William, it is such a precious time.
I think you all probably know what I am saying. He is a keeper!

The picture os Jonathan Holding, of course; William
I hope everyone is well! Have a great Sunday!

Baby Comes Home

2007-08-27T20:03:00.000-06:00

Kimberly Holding Baby.

We brought William home today and it is great. Having him as a member of our family Is a blessing! He is getting lots of attention and we may have to set up schedule for who gets to hold him.
When we got home we were informed that our church would be providing evening meals all this week. This is so nice to have this type of kindness given to us. Especially providing food for a family of 6 is no small deal. To those involved I say Thank you!
I am going to be taking some time off work and helping around the house. I have always enjoyed this time with the newborn children in our home in the past. Is a very nice time that you don’t want to miss. The children grow so incredibly fast! You must enjoy every day! I find myself once again at a lack for words. I am enjoying my family and will continue to do so for the next many days. Thank you all again for the congratulations and well wishes. The Lord has blessed our home and our cup overflows!

pictures

2007-08-27T00:31:00.000-06:00

My Mom Nora Holding William. Kimberly and Jonathan looking on.

Mom helping Jonathan Hold baby

Chris Aaron Holding baby Kimberly and Rachel looking on.

Rachel and Jonathan Holding baby.

Danny and Marilyn hold baby.

The day after

2007-08-26T19:20:00.000-06:00

Well it has been a nice day today with lots of friends and family coming to visit.

Darcy's blood pressure and the other health concerns that lead to William's earlier arrival have returned to normal. That is a blessing. The baby is doing well. He has been feeding fine and all systems are functional. Some with a vengence. :)

Children are such a blessing! I remember things I felt with my other children all over again with this brand new baby. Its hard to put into words... just love and care so much for them from the very begining. I mean really; how attached can a person be to someone he just met a day and a half ago? :) Of course we all know this is different!

Not much more to say I guess.. Just that this is a really great event! We are very happy! Thanks for your prayers and congratulations.

We are blessed!

Oh a couple more pictures! I can't help it! Here he is listening to some good music.. Actually its his hearing test. :)

Moma and Baby!

A Video

2007-08-26T18:48:00.000-06:00

Wanted to try adding a video.. Nothing real exciting for a lot of you. For us everything he is involved in is pretty special. :) Williams first bath.

A Baby Boy Is born!

2007-08-25T07:44:00.000-06:00

Well as I anticipated it was indeed a long night. I am the proud father of a new baby boy! William Andrew Pine was welcomed into this world at 03:22 am this morning. He weighs in at 7 lbs 9 oz and is 21.5 inches long. Mother and baby are doing fine!
I have been in a similar place 4 other times previously when my other children were born.. While I was familiar with what happens. When and what to expect in many ways, I still am humbled and awestruck when a new life opens its mouth and says Whaaaaaaaaaa! Whaaaaaaaaa! :) Makes you realize all over again what really matters in this life.
I have gotten maybe an hours worth of short naps all night but while somewhat tired I am very happy inside and feel great!
I am writing to you from the hospital guest lounge here outside our room. They have a beautiful view to the west and you can, of course, see the rocky mountains. I was able to watch as the sun came up (obviously from behind me) and see the mountains come to life with the bright orange light. I can’t help but to ponder, like many new parents do,what the future perhaps holds for my son? Will he grow to be responsible? Will he obey when it is most important to do so? Will he follow the precepts that Darcy and I will try to instill in him? When he is older will he break his mother and fathers heart? I can’t help but to have hope when I hold my newborn son and look into his tiny little face and eyes. I thank God this beautiful morning for my new son, my beautiful wife and my other four blessings from God. This is indeed a great day! The day William Andrew Pine is born!

Moving Along

2007-08-25T00:57:00.000-06:00

Well things are moving along. Contractions are about 2 ½ minutes apart. Darcy says it is starting to get strong and starting to really hurt… so Probably will be time for the pain relief soon. She is amazing! Greatest Mom On earth in my eyes... Of course I tell my mother the same thing. Rather diplomatic wouldn’t you say? For those of you wondering I am writing in my free moments don’t worry I am involved! As much as I can be at this point. :)

"can you pick up some diapers"... "HUH!?"

2007-08-24T22:05:00.000-06:00

I got a call at work today at around 11:30 from my beloved. I was out of the office and my fellow worker gave me the message to call her back, so I did. When I called her she asked if I could stop off on way home and pick up some diapers. I said huh? Why?!
She said because were going to need them. The short of it is; my wife had a doctor’s appointment this morning and they found high blood pressure and were advising her to induce the birth today. It is nothing as serious as that may sound. This happens I am told with many women… the high blood pressure is from the pregnancy. It will be a little early but nothing to really worry about I am told; as it will be a full term baby. So I left work and met her at the hospital. I sit here now as she is lying in the bed with tubes and wires hooked up to her. I am ready for a long tiring night no doubt, but am excited for the arrival of this dear baby boy.

More to come …

The Ignorant Blogger

2007-08-23T12:25:00.000-06:00

Honestly; I before starting this blog had been thinking about it for a couple years. I wondered if I really wanted to do it or not. You know the whole time issue. Like anything, I had to decide if I wanted to spend time on an ongoing basis writing my thoughts and experiences on an electronic log for others to see.
As the title of this entry indicate I did not and still do not know much about blogging.
I did not even really know what “Blog” stood for. Is it an acronym? What is “BLOG”?
Well Wikipedia gave me some help with this: “A blog (a portmanteau of web log) is a website where entries are written in chronological order and commonly displayed in reverse chronological order. "Blog" can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog.
Blogs provide commentary or news on a particular subject such as food, politics, or local news; some function as more personal online diaries. A typical blog combines text, images, and links to other blogs, web pages, and other media related to its topic. The ability for readers to leave comments in an interactive format is an important part of many blogs”

SO there you have it. Who Knew it was a combination of “web log” = blog.
Don’t make me feel bad with all the replies of “I knew that, so did I...so did I…”
Well I have learned so much already reading some friends blogs.. I read them because I consider them friends and am interested in their lives. They have 10 adopted children and they apparently really do not have a dull moment, ever! Claudi had an entry today about bloggin tips.. was very good.
Another thing I was ignorant about was the fact that through the different adds you can place on your log that you can derive income. I noticed the ads on some blogs in the past and never thought much about it. It makes perfect sense for someone to get “traffic” to their site and then get some income from the links accordingly. This is an example of capitalism at its finest. Honestly this was not a reason for me starting this and I don’t necessarily know that I will ever do that. I just enjoy writing or journaling as it is sometimes called, whether others will enjoy reading remains to be seen I guess.
I have much to learn about this subject that is certain. I have enjoyed thus far the comments and emails I have received.
Have a great Day!

Church struggles.

2007-08-21T06:34:00.000-06:00

I attend a small Wesleyan Church here in Denver. I originally was brought on the church bus back when I was knee high to a grasshopper. My Aunt and Uncle attended this same church for many years and is how I came to be involved. Sunday school, Vacation Bible school, youth group and many other ministries have been a part of my life over the years. For a very long time the church has really not grown in numbers. This has happened with different pastors in different decades and of course different church members. We have had our faithful core of peaple, attendance has been up and down but overall attendance has declined.
I have seen other sister Wesleyan churches in the local area fade away and close and it has always been a thought of dread should that ever happen to my church. I can attest to the trying of many different things to minister to people in and out of the church. Many things have been suggested as to the cause for the stagnation if you will. Some have blamed the pastor; some have blamed it on the neighborhood, some on the facilities and it goes on and on. I too have contemplated “what are we doing wrong?” or “what are we not doing? “ I trust in the Lord that He has a purpose for our church. I sometimes, just don’t understand the lack of growth.

Change

2007-08-19T21:22:00.000-06:00

Had a surprise at work today. I now have a new commander. Long story short this inspection we are approaching in October is a “retake” we got a marginal rating last time. Lot of reasons it happened and we have a lot on plate to pass the retake. This is fast approaching and it is very important that we pass. So the higher powers that be are doing everything in their power to make that happen. We have already had some other moves of supervision that I consider fairly big moves. So it is what it is. I know the man that is coming in to replace the former and he is a very competent, very good at what he does and I trust in his abilities. It is just a very difficult time and will continue no doubt until we pass in October.
Was a fairly uneventful day other than that. :)

Up Late.

2007-08-19T11:46:00.000-06:00

Went well last night. I believe the flying schedule was all filled. I got in about 03:30. The guys are really rising to this inspection and that is a relief. So glad last night is done. Have to go in today and get some training done. you know "One weekend a month two weeks a year"
A lot easier day ahead. Hope everyone is well. Have a great Sunday.

ORI

2007-08-18T13:47:00.000-06:00

As many of you know I am a member of Colorado Air National Guard. I have been for some 20 plus years now. I work in Aircraft Maintenance on F-16 Fighter Aircraft. I worked on the flight line as a Crew Chief for majority of my career, I now work as Quality Control Inspector. I could write about “where has time gone?” and all the changes I have seen in my profession over the years but that is another entry perhaps for another day.
What is facing our unit at this time is an “ORI”, (Operational Readiness Inspection) “What is that?” It is were we are tasked in a scenario which would match a war time tasking… not only match it but usually exceed it in the complexities of it and make your job generally miserable. All the while they throw in a group of inspectors to evaluate how you did during this miserable testing. If you have not gathered it is something I do not relish and generally the only enjoyable element is the part of completion. It is a necessary part of my job and the fellow members I proudly serve alongside. Well to further educate you an ORE (Operational Readiness Exercise) is what I get to enjoy this afternoon and into the late hours. This is a practice for the ORI if you are following me. This is basically a preparatory test or practice if you will for the real inspection, which is to come in a couple of months.
These inspections come with the wonderful chemical warfare gear and the heat of the day etc… It can be very challenging and in my younger days there actually was an element of “rising to the challenge” of this thing and that making it as close to fun as one could potentially get I suppose. (Of course all of us still do the best we can in fullfiling the requirements.)Mostly now my thoughts tend to be “I just want to get this over with”. I am on the late shift today and will be there past midnight.

An old friend Claudia who writes several blogs of her own along with her husband Bart have challenged me in my soul!
They have adopted 10 children and are in line to get two more. The nutshell version of her challenge was this. As Christians we are called to minister to the needs of the orphans. (James 1:27)
There are some statistics that she gave of the numbers of non-adopted children and numbers of Christians in our country and it makes no sense why these children are not taken into loving Christian Homes. I would encourage you to read her entry here.

Darcy is doing well with the pregnancy. Due date is now less than a month away and all is well as far as we know. Still have not come up with a name yet. We know from the ultrasound that it is a boy. Well it may come down to the day of the birth.. That happened last time and ultimately Darcy chose the name. I think the only Child I am responsible for naming is Christopher Aaron our oldest… after that I was useless. :)

The Candy Man

2007-08-16T21:50:00.000-06:00

I have been attending my church off and on most of my life. I attended when I was very young with my Aunt Melva and Uncle Lee. Uncle lee is now gone and Aunt Melva is in a hospice home and is basically waiting to die. Like so many older people we loose a little more of her each day. It is difficult when you have feelings of wanting her to just go on home, as her quality of life is not very high. At the same time loosing her is a very difficult thought. Well it has been said “The Lord takes us when He wants us”.
My Uncle Lee was also known as the “Candy Man” at the church and in the neighborhood he lived in. He would buy those brachs candies, the “peppermint” and the “red hot” ones. He would have a pocketful in his suit and would hand them out to people. Adults and children alike would all get a piece of candy. My Uncle and I had a little secret. “You are my nephew you know, so you will get two pieces.” I really don’t remember when this started; I suppose it was always that way. I never told anyone about this until after he died then with tears in my eyes I wrote it in a small article for our churches bulletin. I remember very clearly when I was writing about it and I had to stop several times to clear the tears forming in my eyes. That little alliance between nephew and uncle meant the world to a young child growing up. It continued to mean a lot to this day. I am sure that my Uncle did other things that he kept between he and the other person. I know of some instances and I also know he did things for people many times from an anonymous arrangement as well. He was a very generous man and he had a heart for people.

Let the good times roll!

2007-08-14T22:00:00.000-06:00

I attended Bartlesville Wesleyan College in Oklahoma from 1984 to 1986.(Achieved my Associates Degree in General Studies and no I never did go on and choose a major and get my Bachelors.) Those two years I can honestly say in so many ways shaped the course of my life. I was dating my wife to be at that time and she attended BWC in 1985/86 with me. I established friendships during those two years that remain to this day. No I do not see these people very often , but I still feel very close to many of them. I viewed it back then as a transition from childhood into adulthood but probably in reality it was a transition from high school into college. :) I was still very immature when I left in 1986. In looking back I would not trade that time for anything.
Recently in viewing a web page and blog setup by the reunion committee I found myself very easily drifting down memory lane once again and actually longing and missing for that time in my life. In looking through the minds eye, things were so much simpler then. We had so much fun. The friendships we had were great because we were around each other much of the time. We did things together almost daily. Many thoughts about the future we so consuming at that time and with childlike anticipation we knew we had our whole lives in front of us. What a magical time it was indeed. Even the music seemed so much better then. Its funny to think that some 21 years ago since I left, most of the students attending today were not born yet. I don't imagine very many of the professors or staff are there any longer either. Things change!
I have a wonderful life now with a loving, beautiful wife and 4 great kids. By the way we are expecting our 5th in September. You probably already read that somewhere. :)
I am a blessed man to say the least. When I was in college those many years ago I looked forward to so many of the great things I now take for granted. Now here I look back with a longing for a simple time. Life is something isn't it? :) I sometimes feel like I do not make much time for friendships with work and family and church and yada yada yada. There is not much time left for the fellowship of good friends. When it all boils down to it the time in college was magical in large part because I had my friends around me. We did not have much, we had no money :), but we had each other and we always figured out how to have fun together.

Good day

2007-08-13T20:31:00.000-06:00

Slept in on my day off. Around 0930 went for bike ride. I desperately need new tires. I can feel the back tire of the bike not holding on fast cornering. So two new tires are now installed and tuned up the bike some. Feels much better.
Back to work tommarow.. long week ahead as drill weekend is next weekend. Not only drill but exercise practice... Not my favorite thing! I am getting to old for this!
Was a very nice day off.
Sold the remaining Bronco watches for $40. The Church youth group have been selling them for the past several years for fund raising. The watches were donated from someone. They had superbowl 33 champions on them with Bronco insignia. Oie Vey. I wish they could have a winning season again. Hey Maybe this year! This money will go to the youth group. Sold on craigslist.

Hope you all have a great evening

Some Pictures

2007-08-13T12:23:00.000-06:00

When you have a new baby it is required to share photos:

Rachel holding baby. Kimberly and Mom Looking on.

Danny and Marilyn holding William.

My Mother Nora holding baby and Jonathan and Kimeberly looking on.

Chris Aaron Holding baby Rachel and Kimberly looking on.

Mom and Jonathan holding baby .