2 blocks from.....EVERYTHING!

The Adoption Journey Hits The Home Stretch

2008-06-24T22:19:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to update everyone regarding our adoption journey. As most of you know, we left for Hawaii on June 22^nd and the adoption hearing was June 24^th. Well everything went well. We were a little delayed getting into the court room (the last case of the day) but all the proceedings went well.

It was just like being on TV in a court room, just that our judge was a “non sarcastic Judge Judy”. There was the judge, her bench, the bailiff, and the court secretary off to our right. There were flags on each side of the judge. We had to stand and state our full names, we had to raise our right hand and swear that the testimony we were about to give was the “truth and nothing but the trust”. After our lawyer stated her case, we were asked a bunch of questions, most about our paper work. Then the judge officially asked us if we wanted to adopt Annalise and reminded us that this is permanent. Then she officially terminated any other parental rights. It was a few words that held much significance. It was extra special when the judge said that she had read our homestudy and said that she thought we would make great parents. So that was the “Court Hearing”. Another step completed in the journey.

Thanks so much for all your prayers. We still need your prayers for speedy processing of the remaining paperwork. The adoption order and the new Birth Certificate are the last paperwork we need to get permanent health care and Canadian citizenship for Annalise.

Now we can relax at he beach for a while. We look forward to getting home on Monday morning.

A Lesson in Pennies

2008-04-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

Denis Mousseau died March 22nd.
Denis Mousseau started rolling pennies simply as a pastime, something to take his mind off the lung cancer that was going to kill him.
He thought ten thousand dollars, or one million pennies, would be a good target.
But the more people who heard about Denis' campaign, the more people started to hand over pennies.
One hundred and forty-one pounds of pennies to be exact, which by our calculations is about 28,000 pennies -- about $280 closer to Denis' goal.
"He started this penny drive to help Crossroads patients and their families, so roll on in Denis' name and keep his dream alive," said Linda Kozina of the Crossroads Hospice Society, where Denis spent his last days.
"Thank you for your support and generosity," she said to all the people who had brought pennies in.
And pennies keep rolling in -- by the bucket-full.
This remarkable grassroots movement will be Denis's legacy for others who will come to the Crossroads Hospice for their final days. – ctvbc.ca

To me, it's a wonderful illustration of the collective wealth and worth of people. And how much more so those who know Christ. The Bible often refers to the church as "the body of Christ" and says that "all the members of that one body, being many, are one body" (1 Corinthians 12:12).

Every person, therefore, is essential and valuable as part of the whole. By ourselves, we may sometimes feel insignificant, unneeded, and of little value, like so much spare change. But as individual parts that make up the whole, each of us is needed (vv.15-22).

All people are unique individuals, but as Christians we are also indispensable parts of the body of Christ, and of greater value than we can ever know.

AND THAT INCLUDES YOU!!!

Suddenly

2008-04-03T11:43:00.000-07:00

1 year ago today, a life was born.

The biggest lesson I've learned this year (other than how selfish I am) is the fact that despite our plans and intentions and strategies and savings plans, God often chooses to work SUDDENLY (Matthew 28:9, Acts 2:2). In fact, some scholars say that "suddenly" is one of the chief themes that runs through the whole book of Acts.

When we live life too much in the suddenly we become too sloppy. We were never meant to become accustomed to suddenly.

But He does want to keep us on our toes, keep us flexible. God needed us for Annalise. God chose her for us. What if I had missed that phone call or chose not to take it because I was in a meeting (which I was).

God, thank you for an amazing year, a stretching, fulfilling, sleep depriving, growing year. Thank you for blessing Wanda and I with the most amazing gift ever. Help us to raise her to know you and to know how you move. Help me to see all the sudddenlies that come along in life and to be ready to be your tool in those situations. AMEN!!!

To J.R.G.

2008-03-26T10:55:00.001-07:00

Thanks for phoning. It was really good to hear your voice.

R.I.P.i.P.o.d.

2008-03-19T12:18:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my iPod's gone

It's dead, dead, DEAD. It won't turn on

For weeks the iPod battery

Had not been working good for me.

So now, without, I now can see

The iPod is a big part of me

And my collection of music

Without, I am, it makes me sick

And awfuller still the truth is this

"I MUST REPLACE" and soon forthwith

80 gig classic in black or white

So I can listen both day and night

Or maybe I should by the "Touch"

"Would I use the wi-fi?", not that much

My dillemna is a real decision

And in my heart I feel derision

Do you think? Is it a Maybe?

That I don't need an iPod you see.

Nah.. put that thought out' my head

I world without earbuds, I fear and dread

So off to Craigslist to find a deal

And no eating out a costly meal.

Save my dollars for such a time later

To get a new mp3 player.

A Little Thankfulness

2008-03-12T09:38:00.000-07:00

Here's a little truth I'm living out today. Thanks to my girls who make life way more awesomer!!

Proverbs 18:22 - He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the LORD.

Psalm 127:3-5 - Don't you see that children are God's best gift? The fruit of the womb his generous legacy? Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth. Oh, how blessed are you parents, with your quivers full of children! Your enemies don't stand a chance against you; you'll sweep them right off your doorstep.

I've Been Thinking About Sex

2008-03-06T16:11:00.000-08:00

I know, what a cheap (effective) way to get more traffic back to my blog....

But seriously, I HAVE been thinking about sex. It's a physical thing right? Man & woman, physical "relations".

How does it end up being so much more than that?

In it's essence, it's a physical need finding physical fulfillment, but in actuality, it becomes a spiritual act binding and bonding 2 people together (who are hopefully prepared for such binding and bonding). And it's been going on for a long time (see the second chapter of the Bible, verse 24)

I'm not going to get into it much more than that because the point that has impacted me is how a physical act becomes a spiritual act. Someone temporal, has done something eternal.

Let me draw a parallel:
I've just returned from our yearly pastor's conference. I have reconnected with a lot of freinds that I haven't seen for a year. I've been able to share a meal with some really special people. I feel encouraged in ministry and mission for the first time in a good long while. And then my mind drifted to the sex thing (just wait, it will make sense). Here is another physical act that becomes a spiritual act. The physical presence of these people in my life has ignited a spiritual hunger and passion that lifts me.

This encourages me. That what I can do in my everyday life can have eternal siginificance. Because there are times that you feel like it doesn't. God is always working, it's our responsibility to "get into the bed" so to speak.

Momentum

2008-02-27T09:28:00.000-08:00

Things stop without it. Companies and churches crave it. It often prevents change. It often speeds up change.

Much is made of momentum. I have one question..... WHY?

In 1 Samuel 8 the Israelites want a king. Even after God tells them that they don't need an earthly king because His kingdom is built in their hearts they still insist. Why?

Inherent in the word momentum is the concept of speed. "Speed Kills" it has been said. "Speed Thrills" it has been said. Which one are you?

Lately I'm believing more in TRUTH than MOMENTUM. I think momentum will always be about a race and keeping up to our competitor ("Then we will be like all the other nations.." - 1 Samuel 8:20).

I prefer truth because it causes me to rely more on something that God has determined and not something that I have envisioned. Momentum is stopped or reduced by the smallest of things. The truth isn't.

See you next week.

Hello Again

2008-02-19T15:22:00.000-08:00

OK it's been a long time since I blogged but I was just having coffee with a friend and we talked a bit about disciplines and I want to discipline myself to write a bit in 08. I also added a picture of Annalise to get the women to come to the blog.

WHAT'S NEW IN YOUR WORLD?

In mine, everything is new:

New Joys
I can't explain to you how awesome it is to be a family. We've been at this 10+ months now and it's still amazing. I'm a dad and no longer just a husband. Wanda is now a wife AND a mother. Along with the joy of seeing Annalise's beautiful face each day, I have the joy of seeing my wife BECOME something new... And it's beautiful.

New Insecurities
Am I good enough?/Will I drop her?/Will I be a smothering parent?/How will I know when to let go?/Do I always see what I need to see?/Is my wife getting enough time alone?/Am I getting enough time alone?/Are we spending enough time together as a family?/Are Wanda & I spending enough time alone?/When will I NOT be tired?/Should we adopt again?/How can I be the provider I need to be?/Is this neighborhood safe enough to raise a family in?

New Possibilities
I continue to be amazed at this city... The last few days have made me stand in awe at God's beautiful creation again. But I am also amazed at our capacity for self presentation and promotion. People (Me as the Chief) love themselves and love to love themselves. Wanda made the comment the other day as we were entering a store that people LOVE to spend money. How do you teach people to b selfless when this city honors and makes famous those who are "self first"?

New Commitments
I've made a few, not resolutions but commitments for this year:
1. To blog consistently
2. To always be reading
3. To drink lots of water (because it is key to my emotional health)
4. To turn off the TV more
5. To turn off the computer more
6. To go see more live music because it's life giving to me
7. To spend more time with my friends
8. To spend more time on the Seawall with my wife and daughter
9. To be in the place again where I have lots of people speaking into my life
10. To have lots of seed to sow (Matthew 13)

Hello Again. I'll see you next week.

Does Anybody Still Read This Thing???

2007-07-12T09:56:00.000-07:00

If so, here is an update of our life since last I wrote:

Lots Of Visitors
We have been so blessed to have many people come to see little Annalise. We've had Kamloopsians, Langlians (Langleyites??), and even some Nanaimoans. Tomorrow we have some Slave Lakers (Wanda's brother and his wife), for a week or so. Then Wanda will drive back with them and spend a week in Slave Lake showing off the baby. She'll fly home after that.

The Crunch Heard 'Round The World
Wanda and Annalise were in a car accident. Nobody was hurt. We found out on Tuesday that they've written off our car. We will get OK (not generous) money for our car. Thank you to our WONDERFUL friend who has lent us a car. She's a real blessing to us in many ways.

The Hunt Begins
We've been spending way too much time on Craigslist looking at used cars. We're trying to decide if we should replace (get something comparable to what we had) or upgrade (buy a long term family vehicle). If you hear of anything....

OK. Well back to my Facebook.

Reflections On My First Father's Day

2007-06-18T17:35:00.000-07:00

Well it was what it was, a day that's now mine to celebrate every year but the first one was sure weird. Even today at work everyone was wishing me a "Belated Happy Father's Day". At church yesterday everyone was wishing me a Happy Father's Day.

It's kind of like the first time I went to sleep in the same bed as my wife (May 4th, 1996. I'll have you know). You've wanted this for so long but it's here and it's kinda weird.

I: think "Non-Fatherhood" was my last connection to believing I was actually young. I'm not young anymore. Nope. Not me. O L D!! I better start acting like it.

I'm responsible for others now. It's really FREAKY.

I'm not making much sense but all I can say is that when all these people were wishing me a Happy Father's Day, I really didn't FEEL like it was me they were referring to. I guess I'm feeling comfortable DOING Dad things but actually BEING a dad... as in, it's part of my identity, not there yet.

So anyway, since I think most of the traffic on my blog is moms, ask your hubby for some advice. I'm all ears!!

Ha Ha

2007-06-08T21:32:00.000-07:00

I would never teach my girl to exclude other children, but this is simply one of the best picture in the history of civilization.

More GREAT Pictures

2007-05-29T23:38:00.000-07:00

Upping the Cuteness Factor About a Kajillion Percent

2007-05-26T17:39:00.000-07:00

Thanks Beautymark Photography. Awesome work!!!!

As Requested - More Pics of Annalise

2007-05-23T20:44:00.001-07:00

At the Risk of Being Sentimental....

2007-05-09T17:10:00.000-07:00

Leave one memory that you have with Wanda & I. It doesn't matter if you known us a little or a lot, anything you remember! Don't send a message, leave a comment on here. Next, re-post this on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty cool/funny to see the responses (at least that's what I've heard, I haven't tried it yet).

How LIFE has changed, HOW LIFE has CHANGED!!

2007-05-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody. Not sure if you all know this or not but..... having a baby really changes your life. Especially when you and your wife have been doing just fine on your own for 11 years, thank you very much!

1. We eat alone... I mean we're in the same room but one person eats while the other is with Ally. Which lead to number 2...
2. Cold food. I think we may abandon hot food all together and exist on a diet of sandwiches and cereal (cereal will get soggy... DANG, scratch that, but there's always sandwiches).
3. Sleep. Huh, what.
4. How did our place get SO much smaller overnight?
5. No more of me wearing black clothing with her around. Baby puke stains look absolutely ridiculous on black.... but blend in rather nicely with lighter colours, which is encouraging.
6. How do they get their poo that color (that one was for you DB).
7. We are a family now. We will have different goals and dreams than we had before. We will have new love come from our hearts that we've never had before.
8. Someone else needs me. Incredibly humbling and incredibly challenging.
9. NOT going out in the evening doesn't mean staying home watching TV. It means spending family time together, tickling, playing, seeing how much of my chest hair she can rip out in one handful.
10. Seeing who my wife is becoming by having an outlet for all that maternal stuff that was always inside her and never had a chance to flourish.

How LIFE has changed, HOW LIFE has CHANGED!! But I'm not complaining.

We're Home

2007-05-05T15:22:00.000-07:00

It looks like a Baby Gap and a Kids' R' Us threw up in my living room.

Adoption Update - WE RETURN!!!

2007-05-01T11:49:00.000-07:00

We've finally booked a flight home.

We will be back at YVR at 10:18am on Saturday May 5th. We fly Honolulu Vancouver with a 3 hour layover in San Francisco. I'm not sure how long it will take to clear customs and (more importantly) immigration. Pray for immigration that they look favorably on us as we go there after our flight.

REALLY looking forward to seeing you and sharing our little Ali Jo with you. Thanks for being part of the journey.

Adoption Update - "Price Check In Aisle 3"

2007-04-28T01:23:00.000-07:00

So we wanted to see how much she weighed. I think the blanket was really heavy.

Good news. Looks like we'll come home Wednesday, arriving Thursday morning. I'll post a confirmation on that.

New Pictures

2007-04-24T11:35:00.000-07:00

Wanda & AJ kissy kissy

Wanda and AJ (under the blankets) at Diamond Head

Hanauma Bay - Great snorkeling place. We stopped there on our tour

Our little bundle of Joy

I took AJ for a walk so mom could have a nap

Thanks so much for all your encouraging words. Can wait to have you meet AJ in person!!!

ANNOUNCING............

2007-04-19T00:05:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, may I present to you, Annalise Jordan Moores, born April 3rd, 2007, weighing 7lbs and 3ozs.

She was introduced to her mother on April12th, 2007 and her father on April 16, 2007.

Annalise means "graced by God's Provision". Amen, brother!!!

Acceptable short forms are Lisey (LEE-SEE), Alise, Ally, or AJ (not to be confused with the Backstreet Boy).

Here's your chance to say something to Annalise. I promise whatever you post, I'll read to her. So if you think she needs a warning about her father's taste in hockey teams or something of that nature, Fire away. I'll let you know what she says.

Our family officially begins!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Adoption Update Hawaii 2.5 - I'm Going Tonight

2007-04-16T08:38:00.000-07:00

Well y'all, thanks for all the comments over the last 5 days. I'm headed out tonight at 6:40pm to Honolulu. Wanda and baby will be there waiting for me.

Promise to keep updating lots whilst I'm gone. I think we'll be home on the 25th but there are no guarantees in this stuff.

Here's what to pray for:

1. Immigration paperwork - I will send it off today after I get the adoption agency to give it the final once over. It would be really great if it was processed in 7 days, so by next Tuesday.

2. BC Ministry paperwork. We are still waiting for one more form from the hospital in Honolulu before we can process this. A friend is going to take care of receiving that form for me and then taking it to the adoption agency. Same time frame would be great.

3. Pray that we would build the foundation stones of being a family over the next week while we're there.

4. Deals!!! While spending all this time in Hawaii is nice, the bills are piling up. Pray that the hotel will give us a great deal when we tell them our full story.

Thank you all for sharing this with us and especially with me. I've really needed all of you over these last five days. Talk to you soon!!!

Adoption Update Hawaii 2.4 - The Name

2007-04-14T08:41:00.000-07:00

So we're honestly struggling with naming her. Nothing really grabs us. so I'm appealing to my readers. Give us your best names. No silly stuff but girl names that you love that aren't YOUR children's names.

And for your trouble, I'll post another picture of baby.

Adoption Update Hawaii 2.3- JPGs

2007-04-14T00:20:00.000-07:00

New pictures.

Adoption Update Hawaii 2.2 - JPG

2007-04-13T08:35:00.000-07:00

I'll upload more, but not till Wanda takes some new ones and sends them to me. I'm going on Monday. We don't have a name yet.

This is all so.....surreal.

Here's our daughter!!!!!!

Adoption Update Hawaii 2.1

2007-04-12T23:00:00.000-07:00

I just talked to Wanda (11pm Thursday) and she put the baby up to the phone and she made some funny sounds. I'm a dad. Oh man...

Adoption Update Hawaii 2.0

2007-04-12T22:07:00.000-07:00

Wanda is in Hawaii

I'm going to be a dad in 15 minutes.

THEEEEE Adoption Update

2007-04-10T20:17:00.000-07:00

Ok here it is....

Many of you know we were (are still) planning to adopt from China.

On Thursday, we received a call from Wanda's cousin who recently adopted an African-American child from Hawaii. Wanda's cousin had received a call from her adoption lawyer in Hawaii wondering if she or anyone she knew would be interested in parenting a newborn African American baby girl. She immediately thought of us and she phoned.

We, of course, began to get excited.

Oh the possibilities. Being in our child's life from the first 2 weeks rather than at 12 to 14 months (as would be the case in China).

Over the Easter weekend, we wrestled, BOY did we wrestle. IT was tough. We went from absolutely no to maybe back to no to yes back to no. Monday more wrestling.

We decided to walk through the door and if God closes it, we would know it was His will.

NO CLOSED DOORS.

2 hours ago we received word from the adoption lawyer in Hawaii that the birth mom has approved us and wants to place her baby in our home. All that is left is a lot of paperwork.

As it stands, Wanda will be leaving for Hawaii tomorrow (Wednesday) with her mom and will be meeting our daughter and the birth mom on Thursday. I'll stay behind and work on the immigration and citizenship paperwork and go to Hawaii early next week.

I'm so thankful for all of you and all of your prayers. I can't help think back to Easter Sunday. As it was a celebration time, Wanda and I were wrestling about this and not feeling peace yet. God directed me towards a song to sing in the service and I know these words are true:

"It soothes my doubts and calms my fears,
And it dries all my tears
Oh the Blood that gives me strength
From day to day
It will NEVER lose it's power"

We've been wanting children for 10 of our 11 married years. Today it happened. I'm overwhelmed. The Blood WILL NEVER lose it's power!!!!!!!!

BTW - She's beautiful and we'll post pictures ASAP!!!

Music in the Church

2007-03-22T13:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been away for so long. I'll get right to my point:

It's been bugging me lately that it seems the Church (in general) uses music in a very old fashioned way. By that I mean, 100 years ago we thought, "If we have good music, people will come and listen and then we can preach the gospel to them". In esssence, a church service looks structurally the same as it did 100 years ago. I call that the "attractional" model. I don't think this works any more because the church doesn't have the very best musicians in the community any more so we're not really attracting anybody. The bigger problem I think is that what we have in the church now is a place where there is no room for music as artistic expression. There are churches where this happens but mainly it's because the church consists of mostly artists or was founded by artists.

Now think abot the fact that other forms of art (dance, painting, sculpting, photography, etc...) are way less represented in the Church, and you see the challenge we have in being a place where artistic expression can happen.

Do you guys see this in your setting? If so, how do you think it can be changed? Or.... am I asking the wrong questions?

Canucks Contest

2007-03-12T21:05:00.000-07:00

Since I currently hate Kevin Lowe, I breaking my blog protocol to post a Canuck related matter. A great, Godly film maker has made a short for the Ultimate Canuck contest. Check it out here. Don't forget to rate it and leave a comment. If he wins he's promised to take all of us to a playoff game.........maybe.

Don't forget though...... 5 STANLEY CUPS!!! WOOOOOO HOOOOO!!!

Wisdom From Famous People - #2

2007-03-12T15:17:00.000-07:00

"Smoking kills. If you're killed, you've lost a very important part of your life."

- Brooke Shields, during an interview to become spokesperson for a federal anti-smoking campaign.

Wisdom From Famous People - #1a

2007-03-06T23:30:00.000-08:00

Apparently I misquoted Ms. Carey. The quote is an urban myth and was part of a mock interview that is about 10 years old. So I guess we'll have to wait another 6 days to find a good quote for a famous people.

See you next week.

Wisdom From Famous People - #1

2007-03-06T21:04:00.000-08:00

"Whenever I watch TV and see those poor starving kids all over the world, I can’t help but cry. I mean I'd love to be skinny like that, but not with all those flies and death and stuff." --Mariah Carey

Coffee... With a Dash of Morality!!!

2007-02-24T10:39:00.000-08:00

I'm always interested in stories about coffee. This story has the feel of an e-mail forward but please read and I'd love to hear your thoughts.

A group of alumni, highly established in their careers, got together to visit their old university professor. Conversation soon turned into complaints about stress in work and life. Offering his guests coffee, the professor went to the kitchen and returned with a large pot of coffee and an assortment of cups: porcelain, plastic, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite - telling them to help themselves to the coffee. When all the students had a cup of coffee in hand, the professor said:

"If you noticed, all the nice looking expensive cups were taken up, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress.

Be assured that the cup itself adds no quality to the coffee. In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was coffee, not the cup, but you consciously went for the best cups... And then you began eyeing each other's cups.

Now consider this: Life is the coffee; the jobs, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain Life, and the type of cup we have does not define, nor change the quality of Life we live.

Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the coffee God has provided us." God brews the coffee, not the cups..... Enjoy your coffee! "

Thoughts?

Canada Rocks!!!

2007-02-19T13:46:00.000-08:00

Don't let this go to your head. But it is interesting.

Not In A Good Mood

2007-02-13T20:23:00.000-08:00

I've...... pruned my blog links dues to inactive bloggers. Kempner, you're on thin ice. Nice recovery Tennille... you were almost gone. You and you will never be in trouble.

The Soundtrack Of My Life

2007-01-30T13:52:00.000-08:00

This idea came from Simone:

Directions

1. Open up your library (iTunes, Winamp, Media Player, iPod, etc.)
2. Put it on shuffle
3. Press play
4. For every question below type the song that’s playing
5. When you go to a new question, press the next button
6. No repeat artists…stuff happens (randomly!!)
7. No cheating or doctoring your list to make yourself look cooler than the person you took this from.

The Result

Opening Credits:
Love Is Blindness - U2

First Day of School:
One Week - Barenaked Ladies

Falling in Love:
Colored People/Entertaining Angels - Mashup - DCTalk and Newsboys

Breaking up:
Maybe Baby - Buddy Holly

Prom:
Theresa - Yuca

Life’s Ok:
Madame Bonaparte/Devil's Dream/Mason's Apron - Leahy

Mental Breakdown:
The Rotten Hand - Flatfoot 56

Driving:
Coming Toward - David Crowder Band

Flashback:
Carried To The Table - Leeland

Getting Back Together:
I Love Your Presence - Vineyard Cinncinati

Wedding Scene:
What If - Coldplay

Birth of Child:
Song For The Bride - Brian Doerksen

Final Battle:
Satisfaction - Rolling Stones

Death Scene:
I Belong To You - Lenny Kravitz

Funeral Scene:
Everything I Do I Do It For You - Brian Adams

End Credits:
Y Cain't Da Homiez Hear Me? - Gospel Gangstaz

What’s the soundtrack of your life? Let me know in the comments section.

Information Porn

2007-01-25T12:24:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the racy title but it's the only thing that captures my thought.

I've been dealing with an addiction that I've only recently, with the help of a friend, come to realize has a grip on me. It my desire for information. It doesn't matter what kind or of what relevance it is to my life, I just love information. I want to know when the new Flaming Lips album is dropping, what price I could get a home espresso maker for on eBay, And who's blog I haven't read, or more importantly, who's left a comment on mine.

Not only am I hooked on this drug, I have found a great place to get it: right here. The internet has become my dirty little secret. Now please don't misunderstand me, I don't have a problem with internet pornography in the classical sense. I have built safeguards into my life that help me with that.

But see the internet is there whenever I need it. I can be the 1st person to know about the latest trade in the NHL or the first person to know about Brittney or Paris's latest screw up. I can check the weather, WHENEVER I WANT!!! Not just when that guy comes on the news.

I struggle with control. I never thought I did but I do. In my mind, I think that if I can know everything there is to know about tomorrow, nothing will trip me up tomorrow. Nice thought I guess.

So I'm not disconnecting my internet and I'm not going to join a monastery. But I am going to:

- Spend no more than 20 minutes per day on the internet.

- Blog only weekly.

My time on the internet was interfering with my time with my wife. It was interfering with my time with God and it was interfering with my time with others. When 1 Peter 3:15 says to be ready to give a reason for the hope you have, I'd be ready after I responded to an e-mail or read this fascinating article about the new Apple iPhone.

So if you're a daily lurker, sorry. I'm cutting back to only weekly. I hope you understand. (In the process of writing this post, I have come dangerously close to my 20 minute allotment.)

I Love Chocolate!!!

2007-01-18T13:06:00.000-08:00

Apparently this is how I would look if I was an M&M. Try it at www.becomeanmm.com.

Holistically Pro Life

2007-01-15T14:03:00.000-08:00

Yeah, OK, so this is a really good article on both being holistically pro life. Sorry if it's a little strong but seeing as the path Wanda and I are on in life, it hits pretty close to home for us.

Any thoughts?

Jesus....Taken Down For A Loss In The Backfield

2007-01-12T10:00:00.000-08:00

Check this out.

Twice In 12 Months

2007-01-08T23:19:00.000-08:00

Got my wallet stolen again on Monday. Someone broke into our (Starbucks) staff room and stole my new wallet, my cel phone and (incidentally) my brand new Bible that Wanda gave me for Christmas.

This time it's much more devastating because I had ALL of my ID in this wallet. This new wallet was extra big and everything except my passport was in there. When I called Visa and MC, they told me my card had been used in several drinking establishemnts within a 4 block radius of the store, and this was only 2 or 3 hours after he had taken it. I also am out a cel phone and those are a freakin' fortune to buy without a contract.

Song of the Day - Bad Day - Daniel Powter

Workin' For "The Man"

2007-01-04T15:40:00.000-08:00

First off.... I'm sorry if this post disappoints you.

The truth is that after my Christmas vacation, I've started working for..Starbucks. Yeah I know, it's not good.

I had this dillema, Wanda and I had been downtown Van for 2+ years and still felt like we needed to broaden our place of influence. I went to Starbucks one day around Christmas to pick up some donated coffee for a strata function and struck up a conversation with the manager. He mentioned how they were needing help in the new year after all the college crowd went back to school. I knew it was time to leave the Well (just knew it was time, nothing bad).

So I had a decision to make:

My "COFFEE CONSCIENCE" vs. "THE MISSION"

So the mission won. There was no other shop to get a job at and this Starbucks is so close to my place that I could throw a rock through the window from my couch.

If you're disappointed in me I understand. But we want to be in the center of our neighborhood and this is as close as I could get.

Here's the crazy thing, I've been there 2 shifts, and I learning LOTS about coffee. I'm really enjoying the learning component so far. I even made my first drink for a customer today.

Go ahead and pummle (pummel? - sp) me with negative comments I'm ready for it.

Another Great Article

2007-01-02T10:44:00.000-08:00

Here is a great article I poached from Relevant. Any thoughts?

A New Year's Poem

2006-12-31T22:07:00.000-08:00

T'was the night before New Year's In the Lower Mainland
I'm sitting here listening To David Crowder Band

With friends I love dearly And some I just met
On New Year's from my wife A kiss I'm gonna get

I had a great holiday From here to up North
The best trip yet From here and henceforth

Lot's of Skidooing And lots of my fam
Lot's of roast turkey Potatoes and ham

So as I end yet another 365 days
To the Lord up above I give much praise

For a wife who is wonderful For family and health
And, when measured against the rest of the world Incredible wealth

A city to serve in A calling to fulfill
And peace everlasting In the turmoil still

So for 2007 I hope you see pass
Everything you pray for And love that will last

A Christmas Poem

2006-12-24T20:21:00.000-08:00

T'was the night before Christmas
And all over my blog
I'm sitting her with
A cup of Egg Nog

Thinking of all of you
Home with your kin
Knowing your Christmas
Is soon to begin

I'm up in Alberta
With Wanda my wife
Where people live
A very different life

-10 is balmy
Snow is accepted
A blizzard is just life
Not ever rejected

And by the next picture
You'll be able to
See that transport includes
Snowmobiles too

But this is the place where
Wanda's family has roots
Even if you can go outside
Without Sorel boots

We'll be soon of to Kamloops
To see all my klan
Stay for a few days
At least that's the plan

Then off to the coast
For a New Year's Eve party
With Nick, Ben, Leanne
Robin and Darcy

And I hear that a few
Other people are coming
That we don't see to often
Won't that be something

So as I sign off tonight
I just want to say
How all of my blog friends
Brighten my day

To Postal and DMac
You guys let me vent
And if I want a good laugh
I go over to Two Cent

Carson & Simone
Always interesting stuff
Kempner and Dehoog
They don't write no fluff

So I bid you adieu
With this poem of letters
I got to go upstairs
And play me some Settlers

The Human Race Has Hit A New Low

2006-12-05T17:22:00.000-08:00

Here

I gotta go throw up.

When Bloggers Babysit For Bloggers - Next Time On Jerry Springer

2006-12-05T11:26:00.000-08:00

Well we had quite a week actually it was 11 sleeps.

We took care of Gabriel & Grace, who are the children of the C & D Block, whilst C & D were away on plusiness (pleasure/business).

Lots of you know about our journey towards adoption. Having an extended period of time to give care to a 5 year old and a 20 month old taught me some very interesting lessons. Here's what I learned:

1. Thank God for cereal!!!! Only 1 dish dirty per child and they love it. Whoever invented cereal... THANK YOU!!

2. Children who are loved, are lovely children. In 11 days, these kids NEVER cried for Mom and Dad and always were polite with us. I mean the 20 month old was a little terror sometimes but nothing we couldn't handle. Gabriel was AWESOME!!! I think they have been loved well. I mean at their age, you'd think they'd be asking for candy all of the time. Their favorite snack is apples.....APPLES!!

3. I'm very selfish. I couldn't believe how many times I had to catch myself reacting emotionally rather than thinking, "What's best for the child". I really feel like I learned to give more of myself.

4. I love them. I know I'm not their parent, but I feel like I learned how to be one. I feel like I learned how to love someone differently.

5. I miss them. I slept 'till 8:15 this morning. That wasn't happening last week. Children are a real blessing and I understand that more now than I ever EVER have.

6. I can't wait..........

The Bible Either Sounds Like A Tolkien Book or A Metallica Song To Someone Who Has Never Set Foot In A Church Before.

2006-11-25T13:35:00.000-08:00

Hope you all can take time to read this article.

If you're a lady, stick through the sports analogy, the article is worth reading!!!

ps - I had this picture as a poster in my bedroom when I was 14 or 15.

The Truth

2006-11-21T12:44:00.000-08:00

You may have heard by now, and I'm ashamed that I didn't say anything sooner but I need to set the record straight about something really important in my life.

I'm drinking tea...... and I LIKE it.

You see, when you do something as a job you often lose the joy of this endeavor. You become a drinker only for the purpose of determining if your customers are enjoying a consistently great tasting cup rather than for your own enjoyment.

I've lost the wonder of espresso :(

I've become so obsessed with creating the perfect espresso shot and the best latte art that I've completely abandoned the joy of the bean. Which leads me to my new love..... Yeah I said love! Deal with it.

Peppermint Tea. I really like it. I feel like I'm drinking a good drink and chewing a stick of Extra gum all at the same time. Sometimes (make sure there are no children in the room) I even put 2 tea bags in one cup.

But what of espresso? Shall it be my Ex forever? Not forever but for the forseeable future. I did have an Americano just this morning made by a fantastic barista and it was very good but I found myself wanting the cool tingle of peppermint rolling over my gums instead of the "dark chocolate" bitterness of espresso crema.

This all has got me to thinking about the way I treat the Word of God. Do I lose the wonder of it because I'm "in the business"? When was the last time I partook in the Word of God for me (like, really) and not to pass it on to someone else? Because those 2 things ARE different.

Anyway, now you know the truth straight from the horses (which eat grass) mouth.

Everything You've Ever Needed To Know About Blogs

2006-11-14T13:59:00.000-08:00

Here I'm going to attempt to shamelessly pigeon hole every blog in the world:

Mommy Blogs
These are big. They generally are run by (you guessed it) moms and consist of tales from the playground or the last family outing. A good example of a mommy blog is here or here.

Mommy Blogs Plus
Similar to the mommy blog but usually run by a mom who should have been a standup comedian or Jim Carey impersonator. Personality reigns supreme in these blogs. Here is a good example of Mommy Blog Plus.

Musings On Life
These are people who are just giving their opinion on life or telling a story of something challenging or interesting in their day. They don't make any major claims on life but you feel like you're seeing into their life in their blog. This blog and this one are good examples of this.

Chick Blog
This is nasty territory. It's like Beaches, a box of Kleenex, an episode of Dr. Phil and Oprah plus a day at the mall all rolled into one. These are blogs that have the sole purpose of making people cry. I know some blogs that venture into the chick blog realm but have only ever truely been to one chick blog and here it is.

Family Blogs
These are blogs that start out as family websites (usually run by the guy) and quickly degenrate into Mommy or Chick Blogs because the guy doesn't follow through on keeping up with the blog. Here is are a couple of classic family blogs.

The Theology Blog
This is usually an "inside joke" type of blog in that it's a closed group of people that comment. Sometimes these blogs receive no comments at all. Which is generally OK because theologians usually don't like to be disagreed with. I won't list a link to a Theology Blog in fear that I might tick that theologian off.

Honest Dialogue Blog
Or the "HDB" for short. These are usually blogs that bring up good questions and let people "have at 'er". The joy is not in the answer in these blogs but rather, "What's the next question we should be asking?" This blog attempts to be an HDB from time to time but the best one I visit is this one.

Special Interest Blogs
These are blogs devoted to small niche topics like sports or cafe reviews or restaurant reviews or faith and politics.

This really should be a Wikipedia article or a Webster's definition because it's so exhaustive.
Anyway, if I've incorrectly labeled any of you, or if you know of some blogs that fit into any of these categories, I'd love to know.

Did I set a record for the most hyperlinks in a post?

Wet

2006-11-10T09:03:00.000-08:00

It's very wet today. Hmmm, it was very wet last week this time as well.

The rain does some really good things, don't get me wrong. It gives our city a really good cleaning when it needs it. It also helps get rid of the dried pee smell that permeates downtown when it's dry for too long.

What I DON'T like is I can't walk around downtown as much, which is my favorite thing about living down here.

Hope everyone has a fantastic weekend wherever you are.

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things

2006-11-03T00:50:00.000-08:00

Coffee + the 80's = Funaaay!!!

Adoption Update #3

2006-11-01T10:30:00.000-08:00

Well I just got back from the Adoption Agency and we have officially done all the paper work for our adoption. We've finished the homestudy (with the social worker) and done all the other paper work that China needs. Next steps are sending everything to Victoria to be approved and then off to be translated into Mandarin and then off to China. The next time I update you on our adoption journey will be to tell you that we are officially in the "lineup" in China and just waiting for the next available baby.

So we're still looking at 12-13 months from now until we travel to China but all of our paperwork is done. It's just a waiting game from here on in.

Wanda's gone to her mom's for a week for another "Scrapbook Bender" as I call it So I'm batching it for a few days. Looking forward to a visit from my friend Phil. Love you all.

So Late October

2006-10-31T15:13:00.000-08:00

Remember how I said brown is the new black? Well it turns out that light purple is the new brown.

HELP!!! I'M ADDICTED TO BLOG TEMPLATES!!!

New Look

2006-10-29T08:24:00.000-08:00

Being the fasionable guy that I am, added to the fact that "brown is the new black", I've updated ny blog look. What do you think??

Just Being Straight With You

2006-10-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

If you come to Vancouver and come to downtown..... and DON'T call us, I'm seriously questioning your walk with God. I mean, let us show you around, let's go for a coffee, and ESPECIALLY if you're going to a game or concert, DON'T PAY FOR PARKING!!! My visitor parking is free and it's closer to the stadiums than most of the pay parking. If you're gonna pay $20 for parking, THAT'S SILLY!!! Come on!!!!

p.s. - you know who you are!!!

Time Out

2006-10-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

** IMPORTANT NOTE - This Post Is For Christians Mainly**

You know how in church how they teach us that tithing is something we should do even if we can't afford it and that if we do, God will bless and take care of the rest?

Why don't we teach evangelism the same way? It's every bit the biblical imperative that giving is. What if everyone of us MADE time to spend with people who don't know Jesus?

I've heard a lot of people lately vent frustration about not knowing any unchurched people or people who aren't a part of their church. What if we just cancelled something in our church sched and got in to our community? What would happen? Would God forsake us and our lives fall apart if we spent time with people in our community? I doubt it. But what do YOU think???

The Beard Is Back

2006-10-12T16:04:00.000-07:00

(If you choose to sing it, sing it in Db, the saddest of all sad keys)

One morning I arose
And thought, "No need to shave"
Much to my wife's chagrin
This way I would behave

And a mere 2 weeks later
Look what's on my face
It's a full on scruffy beard
Instead of a baby face

I hard to put into words
The way a beard makes me feel
More manly, more animal, more wild
Like I'm made of steel

But alas it won't last long
Maybe 'till December
These things are itchy as heck
Much more than I'd remembered

Turkey Recap

2006-10-10T12:08:00.000-07:00

Well we had a great weekend in Kamloops. Hung out with family and friends and had lots of great turkey. Came back on Monday and had ANOTHER turkey with our Delta Church staff. So we had lots of turkey.

I hope your weekend made you more thankful, for your family and friends and the many blessings God has given us.

A NEW Blog!!

2006-10-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

I've started a new blog. It's www.vancouver-cafe-reviews.blogspot.com. Basically I figured since I go to so many cafes and drink so much coffee, I should begin reviewing these cafes. I'll put a link in my links section as well.

Finding Family In A Greek Restaurant

2006-10-03T08:58:00.000-07:00

So last night we had the WIERDest experience. There is this great couple upstairs, Greg & Gillian. We've been getting to know them this year by going out to dinner at various ethnic restaurants, Thai in February, Indian in May, Japanese in August and Greek last night (Mexican in November is the plan).

Somehow we got on the topic of Mennonites. Greg pipes up and mentions that he' s got Mennonite heritage (I hadn't already realized this because we do all our correspondence through Gillian, who uses here maiden name still). So I ask him his last name and he tells me. And then I say "Wanda's mom has an uncle with the same last name". IT'S THE SAME GUY!! Wanda and him are related on different sides of the family. Then it turns out that Greg's brother married Wanda's mom's cousin. So there's actually 2 family connections. Wanda has stayed at Greg's brother's house (which Greg and Gillian helped build).

Hence the title of my post. It got me to thinking, is my view of the world getting smaller or bigger, and which is more preferable? Are there people close to me that should be (or, in this case, actually are) like family to me?

The first part of Hebrews 13 says:

"Stay on good terms with each other, held together by love. Be ready with a meal or a bed when it's needed. Why, some have extended hospitality to angels without ever knowing it! " - The Message

In this case we entertained FAMILY without knowing it. The crazy thing was, realizing someone so close to us (geographically) was so close to us (in family relations) was like receiving a visit from an angel.

Help A Brother Out!!!

2006-09-27T15:23:00.000-07:00

With the help of the Misfit, I uploaded our church site last night. I need some help. If you could add a link to our church site to your blog or website, that helps with the Google searches. I'd really appreciate it. It's www.livingroomchurch.com.

THE Question

2006-09-25T21:11:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all the good dialogue on the last post (especially Jer and Sam dB). It caused me to want to back up a bit and do a definition or maybe a re-definition. What is a Christian? I'm sorry to implement this rule but, if you read this you must respond.

More Elvis

2006-09-20T17:39:00.000-07:00

Christian is a great noun and a poor adjective.

- Rob Bell

What do you think?

Where Have I Been?

2006-09-18T17:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't been around much lately. Here's my quote of the week:

A Christian doesn't avoid the questions; a Christian embraces them. In fact, to truly pursue the living God, we have to see the need for questions.

Questions are not scary. What is scary is when people don't have any. What is tragic is faith that has no room for them.

- Rob Bell

Any thoughts???

Try This Again

2006-09-15T16:51:00.000-07:00

I tried a different photo and here's what came up.

I Look Like Elton John??

2006-09-09T21:34:00.000-07:00

Our Fall Newsletter

2006-09-08T14:34:00.000-07:00

Funny & Fun

2006-09-07T12:59:00.000-07:00

Funny!!!

Fun!!!

Notice Any Thing??

2006-09-05T09:32:00.000-07:00

This picture is creating quite a stir. I don't really get what all the fuss is about. Do you?

A Challenge And A Query

2006-08-28T15:50:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, while relaxing in Deep Cove I reread part of The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning. I've found Manning to be quite liberal in his theology to the point where I've totally disagreed with him, maybe even written him off. But my Amazon order wasn't in yet and I needed something to read. I was so struck by what I read in the first chapter that I feel like I need to share it with you:

When I get honest, I admit I am a bundle of paradoxes. I believe and I doubt, I hope and get discouraged, I love and I hate, I feel bad about feeling good, I feel guilty about not feeling guilty. I am trusting and suspicious, I am honest and I am still playing games. Aristotle says I am a rational animal; I say I am an angel, with an incredible capacity for beer.

He goes on to say:

And though it is true that the church must always disassociate itself from sin, it can never have any excuse for keeping sinners at a distance. If the church remains self righteously aloof from failures, irreligious and immoral people, it cannot enter justified into God's kingdom. But if it is constantly aware of it's guilt and sin, it can live in joyous awareness of forgiveness.

That rocked me. How 'bout you? Any thoughts?

OK now here's my query. Have you ever noticed how almost every book in a Christian book store is either between 200-225 pages or it's a little book which means it's between 100-110 pages. What's up with that? There may be a perfectly good reason for it but it just seems ODD.

Adoption Update 2.1

2006-08-24T15:16:00.000-07:00

I forgot to tell you:

1. Our adoption worker told us that a lot of people adopt from China because the children are in good physical condition and

2. that the orphanages in China offer a lot more one on one between the workers and the children so they don't have as many bonding issues when they are adopted out.

Both things are very reassuring.

Adoption Update #2

2006-08-23T22:38:00.000-07:00

Well, tonight we had our first appointment with our adoption worker, Colleen. We spent an hour or so with her at her place in the west end and she asked lots of cursory questions about our life and why we want to adopt. We have 3 more of these interviews before she writes her report and recommends us (or not) for adoption. The next appointment is at our place. We've got to get medicals, criminal record checks, financial reports, and (I found out tonight) we have to write an essay.

So we'll let you know when there's more to tell.

My Week In Pictures

2006-08-20T21:47:00.007-07:00

Here are some pictures of our week:

My birthday party @ the Well. "Hey slow down Dawn"

There were red and blue baloons on my cake. Guess who got those pieces?

My friend Mitch took my father in law and I fishing in the Fraser River and we caught a couple of nice salmon. Let me tell you about the one that got away..... no really. I'll tell you later.

Then we went to the football game where the Lions won!!

Wanda's parents were cheering for the Eskimos....

All in all a fabulous week we had. Thanks to our wonderful family who came to visit, our awesome friends who made my party extra special.

See you in a few days.

By Popular Demand

2006-08-18T17:51:00.000-07:00

I guess some of you have never seen some of my work:

A Leaf

A (lopsided) Heart

A Special Order

Hope summer is grand. Ill post soon and tell you about my fun birthday week.

Book Tag

2006-08-10T23:11:00.000-07:00

Here's a little game we can play. I'll tag a person and then they have to tag a person and so on with these questions:

1. One book that changed your life:
The Bible, Blue Like Jazz - Donald Miller

2. One book that you've read more than once:
Mere Christianity by CS Lewis

3. One book that you'd want on a desert island:
Though I've never read this 32 page long book and it is written by someone I've never heard of, I'd want this one.

4. One book that made you laugh:
Flashbang - How I Got Over Myself by Mark Steele

5. One book that made you cry:
tie - Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom - God In The Alley by Greg Paul. Actually read them back to back in Ukraine summer of 05.

6. One book that you wish you had written:
The DaVinci Code cuz that guy's stinking rich!!! OK, OK, how about Organic Church by Neil Cole

7. One book that you wish had never been written:
"Left Behind one, two, three..."

8. One book you are currently reading:
Decision Making & The Will Of God by Garry Friesen and J Robin Maxon

9. One book that you've been meaning to read:
A Generous Orthodoxy by Brian McLaren

10. One book that you wish had been written:
2nd Song Of Solomon

11. One book that you got for free:
I Am Not But I Know I Am by Louie Giglio. Read it in one sitting with a venti dark coffee in a for here mug while waiting for my oil to be changed.

12. Favorite Book this Year:
tie: The Secret Message Of Jesus by Brian McLaren, Life of Pi by Yann Martel, Hey Nostradamus by Douglas Coupland

12. Since I'm dying to know what he reads and I think he reads my blog, I'll tag the self proclaimed (although I'm not buying it for a minute) Misfit.

What I'm Learning From My Friends

2006-08-07T17:32:00.000-07:00

I'm learning a lot from my friends. One of my friends is Rob. He and his lovely wife Jaime are on a very interesting journey. Read his last post it's fantastic.

Way To Go Blog Posse

2006-08-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

I noticed many of you linked from your blog to my friends website as I asked a few posts ago. It worked!! Now her site comes up #1 when you Google her company name. Thanks. The power of the blogosphere is a mighty thing.

PoMo Cartoon

2006-08-02T21:54:00.000-07:00

You either get this or you don't.

Mid Summer Checkup

2006-08-02T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
Been away for a few days at Cedar Springs Retreat Centre. Just took some time to pray and reflect on the next year. I'm pretty excited about what God has in store for Wanda and I. When I'm away, I tend to power read so here's links to the 1 2 3 books I read while I was gone. All very good. All very challenging and helpful in where I am in life.

Don't Hassel the 'Hoff

2006-07-27T23:04:00.000-07:00

I know this has been on a lot of blogs but I just gotta say it's really impressive to see a man embrace his own pathetic-ness.

An iPod Tract

2006-07-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks to http://wittenbergs.com/carson for this.

Help A Sister Out

2006-07-27T20:23:00.000-07:00

My friend is a great photographer and has an awesome website. She is having problems getting her website to register on a google search. I was trying to help but all the stuff I read on search engine optimization went right over my head.

So, being the old Reformer that I am, I thought I'd try a grassroots approach. I was hoping you would all consider adding a link to her website to your blog. I know that helped my traffic and helped my google search optimization.

If you know anythingthing about search engine optimization, you can talk to her hubby over here.

Got Mac??

2006-07-27T13:04:00.000-07:00

Here's an article by Apple. It outlines all the reasons I've switched to the good guys. For all my friends who don't understand why I've switched, read on.

Do you have a MAC yet? NO! What are you waiting for? Are you tired of searching for drivers, or scanning for viruses? Life is easier with a MAC. Below are 14 reasons for you to buy a MAC as your next computer.

1. It just works.
How much time have you spent troubleshooting your PC? Imagine a computer designed by people who hate to waste time as much as you do. Where all the hardware and software just works, and works well together. Get a Mac and get your life back. More

2. You can make amazing stuff.
Every Mac comes with iLife ’06, a suite of software that transforms your photos, music, and video into all kinds of projects. Make high-quality websites, photo books, DVDs, songs, slideshows, music CDs, calendars, cards, prints, podcasts, music videos, documentaries, and more. More

3. Design that turns heads.
You won’t want to hide your Mac in a corner of the den. You’ll want it front and center in your life. The Apple style shows in every detail, from its sculpted surfaces to its gorgeous Mac OS X graphics. More

4. 114,000 Viruses? Not on a Mac.
Mac OS X was designed with security in mind. Windows just wasn’t built to bear the onslaught of attacks it suffers every day. A Mac offers a built-in firewall, doesn’t advertise its existence on the Net, and isn’t compromised within an hour of being turned on. More

5. Next year’s OS today.
Since Mac OS X engineers aren’t busy damming a flood of viruses, they have the time to think up amazing new technology. Like Dashboard widgets, mini-applications offering a world of capabilities just a keystroke away. Or a built-in RSS news reader. More

6. The latest Intel chips.
Intel Core Duo processors put you on the cutting edge. In fact, a Mac with an Intel chip is so fast it surprises even longtime Windows pundits, who keep running benchmarks again and again. Results? Fast. Fast. Yup, still fast. More

7. Instant video chats.
Setting up a video chat with the people next door — or across the globe — should be as simple as picking up the phone. On a Mac, you just click an icon to have a four-way video chat in a full-screen window with amazing clarity and special effects. More

8. More fun with photos.
On a Mac, you don’t need any extra software to make a photo book. You don’t have to leave your photo software to visit a separate website and wait for forms to load. All you need is a camera and a Mac. More

9. One-click websites.
How long does it take to post a photo or video to your blog on a PC? On a Mac, you can shoot a picture or a movie with the built-in camera, then post it on the web in a few clicks. Pontificate, preachify, and publish. The hardest part is coming up with something to say. More

10. Amazing podcasts.
Want to get your message out to the world? Podcast it. A Mac makes it simple to create professional podcasts, complete with artwork. Add sound effects and jingles, even use the built-in radio engineer to make it perfect. So you can be a talk star in seconds. More

11. Rock star tunemaking.
Musicians get all the girls (or guys). And a Mac has the software to turn you into the musician of your dreams. Choose from hundreds of cool riffs and instruments to create your own songs. Get good enough and you could be on iTunes. More

12. Hollywood-style movies.
Connect your DV camera and turn your movies into spectaculars. Add graphics, titles, and sound effects in minutes. Then use your Mac to burn a DVD or post to your website. More

13. No hunting for drivers.
Just plug in your stuff. A Mac includes USB drivers for mass storage, digital cameras, input devices, iPod, and more. It can see Bluetooth cell phones and headsets, as well as FireWire cameras. No rebooting. More

14. Awesome out of the box.
Other computers include software, it’s true. But once you start using that software, you find that you’re hobbled in some way or another. Software included with the Mac, on the other hand, is critically acclaimed as best in class. More

Thanks Friends

2006-07-24T21:05:00.000-07:00

Thanks for all your well wishing and prayers as we enter this adoption process. We're taking the first cheque to the adoption agency tomorrow morning. We officially start counting then. That's when the "gestation" period begins.

OK I better stop there before I say something silly.

The Big News REVEALED!!!

2006-07-20T13:12:00.000-07:00

OK well I guess there are 2 things:

1.
I made a fantastic Mango Lime Chile Sauce to go with our barbequed salmon last night. I'm really coming along in my cooking skills, especially if I get to try something exotic.

2.
OK OK Here's the real big news. Wanda and I have decided to take the plunge and register with an adoption agency for the purpose of adopting a child. Many of you will already know the journey we've been on for the last 9 years (not a typo) trying to get pregnant. We feel the time is right to adopt. Waiting until today to tell you was because yesterday was our first appointment at the adoption agency. The process is that we'll have a home study done (which takes three months) and then we'll wait up to 1 1/2 years for a baby.

Another exciting part is that this agency specializes in adoptions from China. There is a strong likelihood we will adopt a girl from China. To tell you why China is a good fit for us would take a while so if I actually see any of you in person I'll explain it. We'll have to travel there to pick her up but they have an incredibly organized program and it's almost like having a short holiday in China and picking up your new child at the same time (that might be a little crude but these people really know what they're doing). I can't really tell you how excited I am right now. Even talking (writing) about it gets me to another level of glee. Please pray for our future child.

Think about this; if we adopt from China, our baby may be in her mommy's tummy right now. And the crazy thing is that they don't even want her. I promise to update the blog everytime we have something new to tell regarding this process. Our first and next step is to fill out the application (done) and send in the first cheque to start the home study. The home study is what freaks me out the most because it can feel quite invasive from what I've heard.

A ball park figure is that the whole process from today until we're home with our child may take anywhere from 12-16 months. Stay tuned for more.

Next Week

2006-07-16T15:42:00.000-07:00

Well we hope to have some big news to report middle of next week so I hope you all had a great weekend. I'll post on Thursday to let you know our news.

Wow.....

2006-07-07T19:10:00.000-07:00

I didn't think I'd post again so quick but I read this and was astounded.

Who is Reading Books (and who is not)

One-third of high school graduates never read another book for the rest of their lives. Many do not even graduate from high school.
58% of the US adult population never reads another book after high school.
42% of college graduates never read another book.
80% of US families did not buy or read a book last year.
70% of US adults have not been in a bookstore in the last five years.
57% of new books are not read to completion.
--Jerrold Jenkins.

http://parapublishing.com/sites/para/resources/statistics.cfm

I'm Back

2006-07-07T18:03:00.000-07:00

In true Po-Mo Blog Boy fashion, here's what we've been up to in our absence from blogging :
822 kilometres to Kamloops and back
0 good cups of coffee in Kamloops
39 degrees Celcius each of the..
3 days we were there
2 waterfights with our nephew, Kyan
1 new God-daughter visited (picture to follow)
102 booths visited at Kamloops Canada Day celebration
THEN......
3 nights that friends spent with us at our place after we got back
1 game of Settlers of Catan

So yeah that's about it. Hope yer'all getting the summer started right. Come visit us!!!!!

Rick Warren Article

2006-06-28T21:57:00.000-07:00

I thought this article was interesting. Sorry it's a little long. Say what you want about the whole purpose driven thing, Warren is helping establish the Kingdom.

Regarding the Previous Post

2006-06-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

After talking with Corrie, husband of Dawn and Jaz husband of Leslie, about the excerpt from McLaren's book that I quoted in my previous post, the comment was made "That's great for describing the mysterious things of the Kingdom but has terrible implications for ethics."

Thoughts?

My Latest Read

2006-06-22T19:21:00.000-07:00

Here's what I've been reading lately. It's probably the most cerebral book I've read in a long time. Now I'm not sure I buy McLaren's view on everything, but right now it's helping me decide I need to have an opinion on things. Here's an excerpt that sent chills up my spine.

Is it possible that Jesus was intentionally keeping his message of the kingdom a secret so that it wasn't obvious, wasn't easy to grasp, wasn't like a simple mathematical formula that can quickly learned and repeated? It is possible that the message of Jesus was less like an advertising slogan - obvious and loud - and more like a poem whose meaning only comes subtly and quietly to those who read slowly, think long and deeply, and refuse to give up?

Thoughts?

Dang

2006-06-19T21:27:00.000-07:00

My FINAL Oiler Poem Of The Season

It makes me very sad
I'm not so very happy
The 'Canes have won the Cup
But I won't get sappy

My Oiler poetry
Will now be put to bed
Untill next winter when
It will come to my head

If It Works

2006-06-18T22:52:00.000-07:00

Close

2006-06-17T20:15:00.000-07:00

This will be my second last Oiler poem:

I can't believe we're in it
I feel like I'm 11
I'm so excited for Monday Night
Stanley Cup Game 7

From Vancouver where I live
To St John's (I've lived there too)
The red flag flies over Canada
But on Monday's it's Oiler blue

I Think I Need To Go To The Chiropractor

2006-06-15T13:25:00.000-07:00

I feel a little woosy
I think I need to sit
I've jumped back on the bandwagon
And it hurts a little bit

I never left my team alone
I've always been a fan
But if I had watched the game last night
You'd have to call me "Ulcer-man"

I really really think now
The series will go seven
And if it goes all the way
Hockey fans will be in heaven

From Raleigh North Carolina
To Edmonton A-B
On Saturday night true hockey fans
Will be in front of the TV

I'm Not Watching Tonight

2006-06-14T14:18:00.000-07:00

I'm not watching tonight
Cuz I won't be alright
It won't be really fine-ah
If we lose in Carolina

I'm not watching tonight
But I think I might
Go out for Indian food
Cuz I'm not in the mood

To lose to Carolina, tonight.

PS - It was a great run

Tonight We Tie It Up

2006-06-12T07:22:00.000-07:00

Continuing my series of Stanley Cup final poetry. This one is definely a dramatic reading. With sound effects in the background and maybe a good car chase scene towards the end.

Tonight we tie the series
Tonight we tie it up
Tonight's the night we're halfway home
Halfway to the Cup

We've got to get some goals
From Hemsky, Horcoff and Stoll
We've got to get you going
Get you on a roll

Keep the puck in their end.
Away from Jussi Jussi
Because if they get too many shots
It may just cook our goose-y

Tonight we tie the series
Tonight we tie it up
Tonight's the night we're halfway home
Halfway to the Cup