My friend Sharp, in a recent blog entry, raised some very relevant questions regarding a Biblical response to current events. Well, that was right up my alley and it lit a fire under me inspiring me to post my thoughts. Great questions! I hope my answers are good too! Constuctive comments are highly desired, kind readers!
"Can he/she give us a government that will recoup our reputation in the world as a generous and compassionate nation? And could he/she take more seriously the fact that a large part of this world now finds our country distasteful? And this goes for Christians in other lands also. (I'm embarrassed every time I go abroad.) "
Answer: Should we be more concerned more about our reputation or reality. It brings to mind the verse that says, and I paraphrase; as much as possible, be at peace with all men. Many people in this world will resent us no matter what we do, whether it is as an individual or as a country. Frankly, I am more concerned about our country doing what is right and best for our country first, and what is best for our “reputation” second. Many of the very things this country has traditionally stood for will give us a poor reputation from others. For example, why should we expect Islamic extremists or ultra liberal European socialists to respect us. Frankly, I would be alarmed if they did respect us. As it stands now, the USA remains the most generous nation in the world.
Is he/she brave enough to influence the formulation of bold new initiatives regarding energy-consumption, healthcare, and Social Security? (If there isn't, the year 2030 isn't going to be a good year).
That is really a loaded question. It assumes, first, that bold new initiatives are needed in these areas. Second, Bible-believing Christians can have some honest differences as to what solutions are best. For example, I believe that we should look for alternative forms of energy, but we might disagree on which alternatives, how much the government should spend (if any), and why. The healthcare issue is really complicated. I believe that government-run health care is a proven failure in Canada and Europe, in comparison to our current system. That is not to say we cannot make improvements to our current system. But what should the government’s role be? What should the role of the church be? How much should we be taxed for this, if any? As a government employee, I believe that in most cases, government solutions are the least efficient. Social Security is a good example of this. And, whenever a politician has courage to bring up Social security reform, (see George W. Bush), they usually get tarred and feathered by the media.
Does he/she think they could stop putting our grandchildren in hock with hideous deficits? (Isn't being debt-free a Christian value?)
Interesting question about debt. While I think that living debt free is generally a wiser course of action and consistent with Biblical precepts, I don’t necessarily look at that as an absolute. How would most of us “own” a home without incurring debt? Most would rent their homes, which, if avoidable, is generally not the best form of stewardship. Then the question should be asked, “Should government debt be considered the same as individual debt? I say “no”. The government and other large organizations, including businesses could not function, or even exist, without carrying some debt. If you accept that some debt is not only permissible, but preferred, then the question becomes, “How much is too much?” I do not accept the premise that government deficits are always a bad thing. I think Christians can have honest differences on this issue. As a rule, I do believe fiscal conservatism, and lower deficits are preferred, and generally more consistent with what God would prefer our nation to maintain.
Would he/she take the issue of climate change and environmental care seriously? (It is God's creation, and some more generations may have to share it.)
As a lifelong weather enthusiast, I do not yet accept the premise that the climate is undergoing any human-induced change. I think mankind is eminently arrogant to believe that we are capable of altering God’s creation to such an extent. Secondly, I think it is just as prideful for us to believe that we can accurately assess future climate trends. We cannot even predict where the next tornado will touchdown this year in Alabama. How can we trust anyone (or any computer model) to tell us with any degree of accuracy what the Earth’s climate will be like in 10, 50, 100, or 1000 years? I am deeply troubled that Al Gore and others are claiming this as undisputed scientific fact and that politicians are asking our citizens to pay billions of dollars for policies that are based on such conjecture. Having said all of that, I DO support the general idea that we should be better stewards of our God given resources. I think that “global warming” may very well be another pop science fad that will go the way of the global cooling we were warned about in the 1970's. There is nothing new under the sun.
Would he/she pledge to be so truthful with the American people that no reasonable person would question their integrity? Let's describe this as being Lincoln-esque. (I'm tired of spin.)
Now this is a Christian issue if there ever was one. I am of the opinion that our nation hungers for this, especially Christians. But here I will blame the media. Lincoln would be chewed up and spit out by the media in 2007. Besides that, our citizenry is sadly too lazy to investigate and learn the truth. Too many wouldn’t know it or believe it if it hit them upside the head.
Would he/she renounce all forms of torture in the treatment of prisoners? (I'm ashamed that this is even an issue in America.)
Do not get me wrong. I am against torture, in principal. I believe that America’s values on this issue remain higher than most nations of the Earth. I am also against killing other human beings. But I must ask, are their situations that such behavior is acceptable? What about self defense? What about doing it in order to save a wife or a child? What about if it is in our national security interest? What about a war? What about the wars in the Old Testament between the Israelites and her enemies? Has God ever sanctioned violence and destruction? I ask the question: What would be more responsible? Torturing an avowed enemy combatant and thus protecting innocent Americans or placing our own people at risk by squandering an opportunity to gain valuable, life saving intelligence? I am of the belief that there are situations where Christians can honestly disagree about this issue. There are numerous verses in the Bible to support various positions on this issue. It also raises a larger question: are we even a Christian nation any longer, and if not, do we even deserve to debate this issue?
Is he/she concerned about the growing social crisis of the separation between the rich and the poor? (It's becoming a gated world out there and one day there may be a new kind of homegrown terrorism.)
It should be a concern. There is a limit to what can be “legislated” however. The Biblical precept that the poor will always be with us is sadly true. It seems to me, based on what I see in my human services job, that the opportunities to escape poverty are greater now in America than perhaps ever before. Why else would so many Latin Americans seek prosperity here? The main barriers to avoiding povery in America are character and personal responsibility.
Does he/she think they might rethink the exporting of billions upon billions of dollars to places like Iraq when a few billion would make a lot of difference in the education of American children and the absurdly rising costs of college education? (I can't believe we are so silent on matters like this.)
We spend more on education than ever before. Check out the brick and mortar palace called (I decided to delete this school's name), in the middle of nowhere, along the Cullman-Winston County line. That is just one among thousands of in both rural and urban areas across this nation. I wish we spent less on brick and mortar and bureaucrats and more on hiring expert teachers and professors for our children. And that is not a slap in the face of our current teachers. I just wish their salaries would be higher and those that are effective would be rewarded and that those who are not would be removed.
Might he/she intend to offer any form of moral influence that would raise the tastes of our nation in its choices of entertainment, the spending of its money, and its growing addiction to sports? (Or does Rome live again?)
Yes, that would be great, but, like my Lincoln comment earlier, would our post-Christian culture elect anyone like that? I doubt it! Could a Christian holiness preacher, with a talent for leadership, be elected President in this country, regardless of his politics? Absolutely not in our current climate. It sure wouldn’t hurt, though, to give it a chance.
If there is ever again a justifiable reason to take this nation to war, could he/she make sure that everyone becomes involved in the sacrifice that war requires? To date the burden or war seems to be on a relatively small percentage of Americans while everyone else goes on living the so-called "good life?" (You destroy a nation by doing it the way we've been doing it. How did we forget Vietnam so easily?).
In my opinion, one of the biggest mistakes of Vietnam was the draft. People who serve this country must do so willingly! God does not force us to serve Him. Why should Uncle Sam?
Could he/she see themselves being as turned on by the dream of alleviating diseases, suppressing genocide, and rescuing the dying nations (debt forgiveness comes to mind) as America once was about getting someone to the moon?
We need that. It doesn’t excite too many Americans, though. How many people are aware (or even care) about President Bush’s initiatives to fight AIDS in Africa? It sure did not help his approval ratings. I have not heard much mention of it on Fox News or CNN.
These are all questions with an admitted political ring to them. But each arises from my convictions as a biblical person.
Thank you for raising these issues. As Christians, we should take these things more seriously.
I will add one issue, that is at the top of my list for America: ABORTION. To me it is like slavery was in the 1800's, only infinitely worse. Instead of enslaving innocent people who could barely stand up for themselves, we are MURDERING innocent children who cannot utter one word in their own defense. To me, as a Christian, this is more offensive and disheartening than anything else mentioned above. I hope and pray that someday, in the not too distant future, Americans look back on those of us living now (like we now look back on Americans who lived in the 1700's and 1800's), and wonder, “What were they thinking? How could they tolerate and accept such evil?” We are correct to wonder that about slavery. But, before we do, shouldn’t we get the log out of our own eye first?
My prayer: Lord, please change the hearts of Americans on this issue so that we will stop killing our babies by the millions. Please have mercy on our land. Please help us to rise up against this evil. Please send a revival of epic proportions, causing us to repent, turn to Christ, flee from evil, and make better choices as a people. In Jesus’ name, AMEN.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Monday, March 19, 2007
Groceries
The first thing the boys and I did Friday was to go grocery shopping. Grocery shopping on pay day is so much more fun than grocery shopping during the last few days before getting paid. I try to save some money every month, but as most people do, I still live "paycheck to paycheck" and I don't borrow money. It's funny because Thursday evening, I had to scrounge around the house for canned goods and scraped together things that had been passed over for quite some time.
Friday was another story. Without going too crazy, I decided that we would get what we wanted at the grocery store. I got a T-bone steak. Among other things, the boys got two different kinds of chips and dip, biscuits, a variety of frozen pizzas with extra cheeses and pepperoni to add. We also bought way too many colas. I just decided that it was o.k. once in a while to treat ourselves to things that we wanted, as opposed to what we needed.
By the way, I have this little grocery shopping trick. When I finish getting everything, I try to make it a habit to take one or two things out of my buggy that we don't need and put them back on the shelf. It saves money and calories. Friday we didn't do that!
Friday was another story. Without going too crazy, I decided that we would get what we wanted at the grocery store. I got a T-bone steak. Among other things, the boys got two different kinds of chips and dip, biscuits, a variety of frozen pizzas with extra cheeses and pepperoni to add. We also bought way too many colas. I just decided that it was o.k. once in a while to treat ourselves to things that we wanted, as opposed to what we needed.
By the way, I have this little grocery shopping trick. When I finish getting everything, I try to make it a habit to take one or two things out of my buggy that we don't need and put them back on the shelf. It saves money and calories. Friday we didn't do that!
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Managing Debut
Tuesday March 13, 2007 at 5 p.m. I made my official debut as manager of a baseball team. My son is on the 9&10 year old team this year and we had our first practice. I introduced myself to the group of parents, spoke to a couple of the dads about helping me as assistants, and spoke to the team.
I introduced myself to the team and called each of their names out from the list and aked them whether they played baseball before, how long, and what positions they have played. I then let them pair up and play catch. The assistants put out the bases while I watched the boys playing catch. I then split them into two groups; half in the infield and half in the outfield. The assistants hit them grounders and pop-ups while I looked on. We also let two of the boys who have pitched before throw to the coach as he hit grounders. I also hit some to the outfielders.
After a break, we swapped the infielders with the outfielders. We made them all do some running. I then talked to the team briefly at the end of practice. I encouraged them to play catch and go to the batting cage whenever they could. I told them that if they don't have many opportunities to play catch, they could throw a tennis ball against a wall. I told them that we have a young team and that we may win all or none of our games but that my goals were that everyone has fun, everyone learns something, and that everyone plays a lot.
This should be an interesting year!
I introduced myself to the team and called each of their names out from the list and aked them whether they played baseball before, how long, and what positions they have played. I then let them pair up and play catch. The assistants put out the bases while I watched the boys playing catch. I then split them into two groups; half in the infield and half in the outfield. The assistants hit them grounders and pop-ups while I looked on. We also let two of the boys who have pitched before throw to the coach as he hit grounders. I also hit some to the outfielders.
After a break, we swapped the infielders with the outfielders. We made them all do some running. I then talked to the team briefly at the end of practice. I encouraged them to play catch and go to the batting cage whenever they could. I told them that if they don't have many opportunities to play catch, they could throw a tennis ball against a wall. I told them that we have a young team and that we may win all or none of our games but that my goals were that everyone has fun, everyone learns something, and that everyone plays a lot.
This should be an interesting year!
Monday, March 12, 2007
Natural Bridge
Natural Bridge is located in the western part of Winston County, AL, also known as "The Free State of Winston", because they did not leave the union during the Civil War like the rest of the South.
Natural Bridge is the longest rock arch east of the Rocky Mountains.
View from beneath Natural Bridge
Close up view of Natural Bridge.
Notice the trees that have taken root in the shallow soil on top of the rock.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
Strange Sights in Winston County
Look at the instructions under the 278 West sign. Duh!
Yummy! Not!
You dont see signs for goat farms every day.
48th annual? That's a lot of intestines.
I should have asked if their gas really is $1.00 per gallon!
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
I've gone and done it...
...no, not like the famous song by Shania Twain! I haven't fallen in love. (I don't think?!) I committed to be a little league baseball coach! The 9 and 10 year old league didn't have enough players. I was asked if Matt, who just turned 8, was ready to move up to the 9&10 league. His coaches from last year and I agreed that he was ready. Then the other shoe fell. They needed a coach. I immediately stepped up to the plate and volunteered. I know I can do it. I know baseball like the back of my hand. But I haven't learned the finer points of Dizzy Dean league rules. I'm not used to dealing with unreasonable parents. Wait a minute. Never mind. I do that nearly every day at work. I think I can handle it. It will be a wild ride, I'm sure. The parks and recreation director said he has one rule: Don't embarass the town. I think I can abide. Look out baseball world, a new manager has entered your ranks!
Those Crazy Kids...
Matt changed schools this year and told me it was good because all of the girls at his old school wouldn't leave him alone. They were always trying to hug him and be his girlfriend, he said. He claimed not to like it, but I think I know differently! Matt is outgoing and has a bubbly personality. Joe is quiet, very intelligent, and usually even tempered. David is opinionated, sometimes argumentative, and deeply into sports and music. He is also very tender-hearted and thoughtful of others. They are all so much fun to be with.
Matt told me the other day that I couldn't get married again (I don't have a clue what brought that up). Anyway, I asked him why he said that I couldn't get married. He said it was because he didn't want any more brothers or sisters. He said that the girls (from his mom's relationsips) get on his nerves all the time. I asked him if it would be ok for me to get married if the lady had boys or no children at all. He said boys would be probably be ok, as long as they were younger than him and that it would be better if she didn't have any children at all. I'm thinking, "Thanks a lot Matt! You just narrowed what is already a very small field!"
Matt told me the other day that I couldn't get married again (I don't have a clue what brought that up). Anyway, I asked him why he said that I couldn't get married. He said it was because he didn't want any more brothers or sisters. He said that the girls (from his mom's relationsips) get on his nerves all the time. I asked him if it would be ok for me to get married if the lady had boys or no children at all. He said boys would be probably be ok, as long as they were younger than him and that it would be better if she didn't have any children at all. I'm thinking, "Thanks a lot Matt! You just narrowed what is already a very small field!"
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Zanzibar
Billy Joel performed this classic album track live in Birmingham, Alabama on 2/26/07. Check out those awesome horns, especially the flugelhorn.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Sweet Home Alabama - Billy Joel - 2/26/07
Billy Joel certainly played to the crowd when he covered this Lynyrd Skynyrd classic last night in Birmingham, Alabama.
I've Been Told...
I've been told that I resemble actor Anthony Edwards, who played Dr. Green on the TV show "E.R." I don't know. What do you think? Which famous person have you been told that you resemble?
Billy Joel in Birmingham, AL 2/26/07
Last night Billy Joel performed to a sellout crowd at the Birmingham Jefferson Civic center in Birmingham, Alabama. I have been a Billy Joel fan for 30 years so when I had the opportunity to see him perform live for the first time, I couldn’t turn it down. He is one of a handful of artists that I would kick myself if I didn’t see them perform live at least once in my life if I had the opportunity. He did not disappoint!
Later I will post the setlist and some information about surprises. The concert was everything I thought it would be and then some. Joel’s voice is still remarkably smooth and he hasn’t lost much, if any range.
Later I will post the setlist and some information about surprises. The concert was everything I thought it would be and then some. Joel’s voice is still remarkably smooth and he hasn’t lost much, if any range.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Billy Joel
I've been a Billy Joel fan since Glass Houses was released in 1980 and subsequently bought all of his albums. Now, in 2007, 14 years since his last pop music release, he has released a new song.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
This Weekend
Last Thursday Joe helped me cook and we all did some house cleaning and played some games. Joe submitted our weather watcher report to James Spann. I have been teaching the boys how to do certain tasks on the computer. After that he complained about his stomach hurting when we went to bed. Well, during the middle of the night le lost his supper on two separate occasions. He was so brave and good about it. You just hate to see your child go through that.
The boys didn't have school Friday, so I stayed home with them and took care of Joe. He gradually got better over the weekend. He was just unusually low on energy. We spent some quality time visiting my parents. We watched Alabama defeat Kentucky with my Dad, played Monopoly, watched Star Wars III, and played football at the park in the snow flurries. Since I was off on Monday, we got to spend Sunday night in Huntsville. My Mom made spaghetti, which is always awesome. Saturday night she made hamburgers and macaroni and cheese.
Now it's back to the work grind.
The boys didn't have school Friday, so I stayed home with them and took care of Joe. He gradually got better over the weekend. He was just unusually low on energy. We spent some quality time visiting my parents. We watched Alabama defeat Kentucky with my Dad, played Monopoly, watched Star Wars III, and played football at the park in the snow flurries. Since I was off on Monday, we got to spend Sunday night in Huntsville. My Mom made spaghetti, which is always awesome. Saturday night she made hamburgers and macaroni and cheese.
Now it's back to the work grind.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
What can we do when things are out of our control?
This could have been on the Bible Study Blog, but....
I was talking to a friend today about how to handle difficult situations that are truly out of our control, especially for a single parent.
It does not pay to worry about the aspects of things that are out of your control. I have learned this the hard way. We have to surrender our children to the Lord and realize that they belong to Him more than they belong to us. Nevertheless, we need to teach them that, although they should love the other parent, they need to be taught that certain behavior is wrong because God said it's wrong; not because we said it was wrong. Also we should teach them that people who do things the wrong way will face undesirable consequences, in one way or another, in the future.
I think the key, here, is the idea of surrendering. That doesn't always mean that we don't do anything. I like what John Wesley said: "Pray as though everything depended on God and work as though everything depended upon you."
Easier said than done....I know.
I was talking to a friend today about how to handle difficult situations that are truly out of our control, especially for a single parent.
It does not pay to worry about the aspects of things that are out of your control. I have learned this the hard way. We have to surrender our children to the Lord and realize that they belong to Him more than they belong to us. Nevertheless, we need to teach them that, although they should love the other parent, they need to be taught that certain behavior is wrong because God said it's wrong; not because we said it was wrong. Also we should teach them that people who do things the wrong way will face undesirable consequences, in one way or another, in the future.
I think the key, here, is the idea of surrendering. That doesn't always mean that we don't do anything. I like what John Wesley said: "Pray as though everything depended on God and work as though everything depended upon you."
Easier said than done....I know.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
The Brick
One more cool story for today:
A young and successful executive was traveling down a neighborhood street, going a bit too fast in his new Jaguar. He was watching for kids darting out from between parked cars and slowed down when he thought he saw something. As his car passed, no children appeared. Instead, a brick smashed into the Jag's side door! He slammed on the brakes and backed the Jag back to the spot where the brick had been thrown. The angry driver then jumped out of the car, grabbed the nearest kid and pushed him up against a parked car shouting, "What was that all about and who are you? Just what the heck are you doing? That's a new car and that brick you threw is going to cost a lot of money. Why did you do it?" The young boy was apologetic. "Please, mister...please, I'm sorry but I didn't know what else to do," He pleaded. "I threw the brick because no one else would stop..." With tears dripping down his face and off his chin, the youth pointed to a spot just around a parked car. "It's my brother, "he said "He rolled off the curb and fell out of his wheelchair and I can't lift him up."
Now sobbing, the boy asked the stunned executive, "Would you please help me get him back into his wheelchair? He's hurt and he's too heavy for me." Moved beyond words, the driver tried to swallow the rapidly swelling lump in his throat. He hurriedly lifted the handicapped boy back into the wheelchair, then took out a linen handkerchief and dabbed at the fresh scrapes and cuts. A quick look told him everything was going to be okay. "Thank you and may God bless you," the grateful child told the stranger. Too shook up for words, the man simply watched the boy! Push his wheelchair-bound brother down the sidewalk toward their home.
It was a long, slow walk back to the Jaguar. The damage was very
noticeable, but the driver never bothered to repair the dented side
door. He kept the dent there to remind him of this message: "Don't go through life so fast that someone has to throw a brick at you to get your attention!" God whispers in our souls and speaks to our hearts. Sometimes when we don't have time to listen, He has to throw a brick at us. It's our choice to listen or not.
A young and successful executive was traveling down a neighborhood street, going a bit too fast in his new Jaguar. He was watching for kids darting out from between parked cars and slowed down when he thought he saw something. As his car passed, no children appeared. Instead, a brick smashed into the Jag's side door! He slammed on the brakes and backed the Jag back to the spot where the brick had been thrown. The angry driver then jumped out of the car, grabbed the nearest kid and pushed him up against a parked car shouting, "What was that all about and who are you? Just what the heck are you doing? That's a new car and that brick you threw is going to cost a lot of money. Why did you do it?" The young boy was apologetic. "Please, mister...please, I'm sorry but I didn't know what else to do," He pleaded. "I threw the brick because no one else would stop..." With tears dripping down his face and off his chin, the youth pointed to a spot just around a parked car. "It's my brother, "he said "He rolled off the curb and fell out of his wheelchair and I can't lift him up."
Now sobbing, the boy asked the stunned executive, "Would you please help me get him back into his wheelchair? He's hurt and he's too heavy for me." Moved beyond words, the driver tried to swallow the rapidly swelling lump in his throat. He hurriedly lifted the handicapped boy back into the wheelchair, then took out a linen handkerchief and dabbed at the fresh scrapes and cuts. A quick look told him everything was going to be okay. "Thank you and may God bless you," the grateful child told the stranger. Too shook up for words, the man simply watched the boy! Push his wheelchair-bound brother down the sidewalk toward their home.
It was a long, slow walk back to the Jaguar. The damage was very
noticeable, but the driver never bothered to repair the dented side
door. He kept the dent there to remind him of this message: "Don't go through life so fast that someone has to throw a brick at you to get your attention!" God whispers in our souls and speaks to our hearts. Sometimes when we don't have time to listen, He has to throw a brick at us. It's our choice to listen or not.
Saying Grace
Attached is another cool email I received recently about having the faith of a child.
Last week, I took my children to a restaurant.
My six-year-old son asked if he could say grace.
As we bowed our heads he said, "God is good, God is great. Thank you for the food, and I would even thank you more if Mom gets us ice cream for dessert. And Liberty and justice for all! Amen!"
Along with the laughter from the other customers nearby, I heard a woman
remark, "That's what's wrong with this country. Kids today don't ! even know how to pray. Asking God for ice cream! Why, I never!"
Hearing this, my son burst into tears and asked me, "Did I do it wrong? Is
God mad at me?"
As I held him and assured him that he had done a terrific job, and God was certainly not mad at him, an elderly gentleman approached the table.
He winked at my son and said, "I happen to know that God thought that was a great prayer."
"Really?" my son asked.
"Cross my heart," the man replied.
Then, in a theatrical whisper, he added (indicating the woman whose remark had started this whole thing), "Too bad she never asks God for ice cream. A little ice cream is ! good for the soul sometimes."
Naturally, I bought my kids ice cream at the end of the meal. My son stared at his for a moment, and then did something I will remember the rest of my life.
He picked up his sundae and, without a word, walked over and placed it in front of the woman. With a big smile he told her, "Here, this is for you. Ice cream is good for the soul sometimes; and my soul is good already."
Last week, I took my children to a restaurant.
My six-year-old son asked if he could say grace.
As we bowed our heads he said, "God is good, God is great. Thank you for the food, and I would even thank you more if Mom gets us ice cream for dessert. And Liberty and justice for all! Amen!"
Along with the laughter from the other customers nearby, I heard a woman
remark, "That's what's wrong with this country. Kids today don't ! even know how to pray. Asking God for ice cream! Why, I never!"
Hearing this, my son burst into tears and asked me, "Did I do it wrong? Is
God mad at me?"
As I held him and assured him that he had done a terrific job, and God was certainly not mad at him, an elderly gentleman approached the table.
He winked at my son and said, "I happen to know that God thought that was a great prayer."
"Really?" my son asked.
"Cross my heart," the man replied.
Then, in a theatrical whisper, he added (indicating the woman whose remark had started this whole thing), "Too bad she never asks God for ice cream. A little ice cream is ! good for the soul sometimes."
Naturally, I bought my kids ice cream at the end of the meal. My son stared at his for a moment, and then did something I will remember the rest of my life.
He picked up his sundae and, without a word, walked over and placed it in front of the woman. With a big smile he told her, "Here, this is for you. Ice cream is good for the soul sometimes; and my soul is good already."
Mean Moms
The following is a cool email I received recently, especially for all of you good Mom's out there.
Mean Moms
Someday when my children are old enough to
understand the logic that motivates a parent, I will
tell them, as my Mean Mom told me: I loved you
enough to ask where you were going, with whom,
and what time you would be home.
I loved you enough to be silent and let you
discover that your new best friend was a creep.
I loved you enough to stand over you for two hours
while you cleaned your room, a job that should have taken 15
minutes.
I loved you enough to let you see anger,
disappointment, and tears in my eyes. Children must
learn that their parents aren't perfect
I loved you enough to let you assume the
responsibility for your actions even when the
penalties were so harsh they almost broke my heart.
But most of all, I loved you enough to say
NO when I knew you would hate me for it.
Those were the most difficult battles of all. I'm
glad I won them, because in the end you won, too.
And someday when your children are old enough to
understand the logic that motivates parents, you will tell them.
Was your Mom mean? I know mine was. We had the
meanest mother in the whole world! While other kids
ate candy for breakfast, we had to have cereal, eggs, and toast.
When others had a Pepsi and a Twinkie for lunch, we had to eat
sandwiches.
And you can guess our mother fixed us a dinner that was
different from what other kids had, too.
Mother insisted on knowing where we were at all
times. You'd think we were convicts in a prison She
had to know who our friends were, and what we were
doing with them. She insisted that if we said we
would be gone for an hour, we would be gone for an hour or less.
We were ashamed to admit it, but she had the nerve
to break the Child Labor Laws by making us work. We
had to wash the dishes, make the beds, learn to
cook, vacuum the floor, do laundry, empty the trash
and all sorts of cruel jobs. I think she would lie
awake at night thinking of more things for us to do.
She always insisted on us telling the truth, the
whole truth, and nothing but the truth. By the time
we were teenagers, she could read our minds and had
eyes in the back of her head Then, life was really tough!
Mother wouldn't let our friends just honk the horn
when they drove up. They had to come up to the door
so she could meet them. While everyone else could
date when they were 12 or 13, we had to wait until we were 16.
Because of our mother we missed out on lots of
things other kids experienced. None of us have ever
been caught shoplifting, vandalizing other's
property or ever arrested for any crime It was all her fault.
Now that we have left home, we are all educated,
honest adults. We are doing our best to be mean
parents just like Mom was.
I think that is what's wrong with the world today.
It just doesn't have enough mean moms!
Mean Moms
Someday when my children are old enough to
understand the logic that motivates a parent, I will
tell them, as my Mean Mom told me: I loved you
enough to ask where you were going, with whom,
and what time you would be home.
I loved you enough to be silent and let you
discover that your new best friend was a creep.
I loved you enough to stand over you for two hours
while you cleaned your room, a job that should have taken 15
minutes.
I loved you enough to let you see anger,
disappointment, and tears in my eyes. Children must
learn that their parents aren't perfect
I loved you enough to let you assume the
responsibility for your actions even when the
penalties were so harsh they almost broke my heart.
But most of all, I loved you enough to say
NO when I knew you would hate me for it.
Those were the most difficult battles of all. I'm
glad I won them, because in the end you won, too.
And someday when your children are old enough to
understand the logic that motivates parents, you will tell them.
Was your Mom mean? I know mine was. We had the
meanest mother in the whole world! While other kids
ate candy for breakfast, we had to have cereal, eggs, and toast.
When others had a Pepsi and a Twinkie for lunch, we had to eat
sandwiches.
And you can guess our mother fixed us a dinner that was
different from what other kids had, too.
Mother insisted on knowing where we were at all
times. You'd think we were convicts in a prison She
had to know who our friends were, and what we were
doing with them. She insisted that if we said we
would be gone for an hour, we would be gone for an hour or less.
We were ashamed to admit it, but she had the nerve
to break the Child Labor Laws by making us work. We
had to wash the dishes, make the beds, learn to
cook, vacuum the floor, do laundry, empty the trash
and all sorts of cruel jobs. I think she would lie
awake at night thinking of more things for us to do.
She always insisted on us telling the truth, the
whole truth, and nothing but the truth. By the time
we were teenagers, she could read our minds and had
eyes in the back of her head Then, life was really tough!
Mother wouldn't let our friends just honk the horn
when they drove up. They had to come up to the door
so she could meet them. While everyone else could
date when they were 12 or 13, we had to wait until we were 16.
Because of our mother we missed out on lots of
things other kids experienced. None of us have ever
been caught shoplifting, vandalizing other's
property or ever arrested for any crime It was all her fault.
Now that we have left home, we are all educated,
honest adults. We are doing our best to be mean
parents just like Mom was.
I think that is what's wrong with the world today.
It just doesn't have enough mean moms!
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Happy Birthday, Ronald Reagan
A friend emailed me some famous quotes of Ronald Reagan, who would have been 96 today. Or, as he would have said, today was the 66th anniversary of his 30th birthday.
"Here’s my strategy on the Cold War: We win, they lose."
"The most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I’m here to help."
"Of the four wars in my lifetime none came about because the U.S. was too strong."
"I have wondered at times about what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through the U.S. Congress."
"The taxpayer: That’s someone who works for the federal government but doesn’t take the civil service exam."
"Government is like a baby: An alimentary canal with a big appetite at one end and no sense of responsibility at the other."
"If we ever forget that we’re one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under."
"I’ve laid down the law, though, to everyone from now on about anything that happens: no matter what time it is, wake me, even if it’s in the middle of a Cabinet meeting."
"It has been said that politics is the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first. Government’s view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it."
"Politics is not a bad profession. If you succeed there are many rewards, if you disgrace yourself you can always write a book."
"No arsenal, or no weapon in the arsenals of the world, is so formidable as the will and moral courage of free men and women."
"Here’s my strategy on the Cold War: We win, they lose."
"The most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I’m here to help."
"Of the four wars in my lifetime none came about because the U.S. was too strong."
"I have wondered at times about what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through the U.S. Congress."
"The taxpayer: That’s someone who works for the federal government but doesn’t take the civil service exam."
"Government is like a baby: An alimentary canal with a big appetite at one end and no sense of responsibility at the other."
"If we ever forget that we’re one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under."
"I’ve laid down the law, though, to everyone from now on about anything that happens: no matter what time it is, wake me, even if it’s in the middle of a Cabinet meeting."
"It has been said that politics is the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first. Government’s view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it."
"Politics is not a bad profession. If you succeed there are many rewards, if you disgrace yourself you can always write a book."
"No arsenal, or no weapon in the arsenals of the world, is so formidable as the will and moral courage of free men and women."
Where Have the Days Gone? (a.k.a. I'm Getting Old)
Yesterday in court a young attorney was in the courtroom asking if anyone had seen the judge's secretary. He was informed that the secretary was not in. As he was leaving the courtroom, he looked at me and said, "You look real familiar. What is your name?" I told him and he lit up like a Christmas tree. He said his name and I remembered him well. It all came together. I taught him seventh grade history back in 1992. I also went to the same church as his family. He reminded me that I took him to a Braves game versus the Cincinnatti Reds back in the summer of 92. He reminded me of how I lost my gas cap and used a rag to cover my gas pipe.
I had forgotten all of that! I remember him well in class as a very bright kid, but it amazed me that the thing he mentioned first was that he remembered me taking him to the game. It was good affirmation that I had given him a positive memory and maybe impacted his life in some small way. He graduated from college with a B.A. in history then went on to law school and now works for the D.A. That was so cool to me! The only problem is it makes me feel so old!
I had forgotten all of that! I remember him well in class as a very bright kid, but it amazed me that the thing he mentioned first was that he remembered me taking him to the game. It was good affirmation that I had given him a positive memory and maybe impacted his life in some small way. He graduated from college with a B.A. in history then went on to law school and now works for the D.A. That was so cool to me! The only problem is it makes me feel so old!
More From This Weekend
On Saturday the boys and I hung out at my parents home. We slept in a little bit. I have been under the weather so I needed a little extra rest. Joe and I went to Kroger and we bought some groceries and things for Matt’s birthday party. After we got back, I got everything ready for the party. We had frozen pizza, then Matt opened his presents and we all enjoyed cake and ice cream. Matt specifically requested angel food cake and vanilla ice cream.
After Matt’s party we watched the Alabama basketball team defeat South Carolina with my Dad. David watched the whole game but Matt played with his toys and Joe played a lot with him and also watched parts of the game. Alabama is now 17-5 and has regained first place in the SEC West.
Saturday night the boys and I watched some old videos. I showed them videos I made with some of my college friends in the late 1980’s. I also showed them the video I made of the 6" snow that fell in Tuscaloosa back in January 1992. The boys really enjoyed seeing this "historical" stuff and it gave them a glimpse into what life was like before they were born. I really need to transfer those to DVD before they wear out.
Sunday the boys and I watched the Super Bowl with my parents. Unfortunately, the Bears lost to the Colts. My Mom made us a really good meal Sunday night which we enjoyed. She made baked chicken, corn, baked potatoes, and crescent rolls (or as the boys and I call them, "tornado" rolls. It was a great evening and weekend.
After Matt’s party we watched the Alabama basketball team defeat South Carolina with my Dad. David watched the whole game but Matt played with his toys and Joe played a lot with him and also watched parts of the game. Alabama is now 17-5 and has regained first place in the SEC West.
Saturday night the boys and I watched some old videos. I showed them videos I made with some of my college friends in the late 1980’s. I also showed them the video I made of the 6" snow that fell in Tuscaloosa back in January 1992. The boys really enjoyed seeing this "historical" stuff and it gave them a glimpse into what life was like before they were born. I really need to transfer those to DVD before they wear out.
Sunday the boys and I watched the Super Bowl with my parents. Unfortunately, the Bears lost to the Colts. My Mom made us a really good meal Sunday night which we enjoyed. She made baked chicken, corn, baked potatoes, and crescent rolls (or as the boys and I call them, "tornado" rolls. It was a great evening and weekend.
Sunday, February 04, 2007
Friday Night
Friday night the boys and I ate at Bob Baumhower's Wings Sports Grill in Huntsville (I know, another food post). David and Joe had the kid's wings meal with extra hot sauce. Matt had his wings meal plain and I got my usual large order of extra hot buffalo wings. Since I was in college in the 1980's this has been my favorite place to eat wings. You just can't beat their hot buffalo sauce. Oh, I almost forgot to mention: I had the chance to introduce the boys to beignets. It sure went well with that cup of coffee!
I then took the boys to Parkway Place Mall where I let Matt pick out a couple of his birthday presents. He picked out a football and a boxing kit. He has worn that boxing thing out this weekend.
We then went to Books a Million where the boys looked at sports and car magazines and books. I was pleasantly surprised to see my friend Johnny there. I probably shouldn't have been too surprised to see Johnny at the Books a Million, though. I have seen him there on more than one occasion in the past. I bought David a nice magazine about cars which he has spent a lot of time looking at this weekend. Joe didn't see anything he wanted and said that he would rather me put money in his account. That boy is smart about saving.
We then went to Best Buy where I bought myself something for a change. I've been borrowing David's digital camera for several months and I finally decided to get my own digital camera. My old one was worn out last fall. I purchased the Kodak easy Share C875, which I already knew was what I wanted before I walked into the store. The C875 is probably the best value on the market right now. It features 8 megapixels and a 5x optical zoom. The camera is relatively small, but it still has a 2.5" LCD viewfinder/monitor.
After leaving Best Buy, we stopped briefly to look at some cars at Suzuki of Huntsville (since they were closed and no one would bug us). I really liked the crimson colored XL7 and Grand Vitara. If I can get a new vehicle in the not too distant future, I would really like one of those. My car has 239,000 miles on it and I do not know how long it will last. One thing good about my vehicle, though, is that it is paid for.
We went on from there to my Mom's house where we hung out with her a little while. We talked about the terrible tornadoes in Florida that occurred early Friday morning. It was a great evening for us guys!
I then took the boys to Parkway Place Mall where I let Matt pick out a couple of his birthday presents. He picked out a football and a boxing kit. He has worn that boxing thing out this weekend.
We then went to Books a Million where the boys looked at sports and car magazines and books. I was pleasantly surprised to see my friend Johnny there. I probably shouldn't have been too surprised to see Johnny at the Books a Million, though. I have seen him there on more than one occasion in the past. I bought David a nice magazine about cars which he has spent a lot of time looking at this weekend. Joe didn't see anything he wanted and said that he would rather me put money in his account. That boy is smart about saving.
We then went to Best Buy where I bought myself something for a change. I've been borrowing David's digital camera for several months and I finally decided to get my own digital camera. My old one was worn out last fall. I purchased the Kodak easy Share C875, which I already knew was what I wanted before I walked into the store. The C875 is probably the best value on the market right now. It features 8 megapixels and a 5x optical zoom. The camera is relatively small, but it still has a 2.5" LCD viewfinder/monitor.
After leaving Best Buy, we stopped briefly to look at some cars at Suzuki of Huntsville (since they were closed and no one would bug us). I really liked the crimson colored XL7 and Grand Vitara. If I can get a new vehicle in the not too distant future, I would really like one of those. My car has 239,000 miles on it and I do not know how long it will last. One thing good about my vehicle, though, is that it is paid for.
We went on from there to my Mom's house where we hung out with her a little while. We talked about the terrible tornadoes in Florida that occurred early Friday morning. It was a great evening for us guys!
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Raindrops Keep Fallin on My Head
When I was five, the song, "Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head," by BJ Thomas was released. At the same time I got my first record player. I wore out that 45 rpm record so bad that I begged my parents to buy me another one. I wore the second one out too. I had a "girlfriend" across the street. I would call her and play the record to her over the phone. It's no wonder that I became a weather geek, with that being my first "song".
Monday, January 22, 2007
Where are your favorite places to dine?
I can't put this in any order, other than the order they popped into my mind. I'll probably think of more after I post this...
1. Dreamland, Tuscaloosa (Best sauce)
2. Big Bob Gibson BBQ, Decatur (Best ribs and loaded potatoes)
2. City Cafe, Northport (my second home when attending UA...awesome blue plate)
3. Rosie's Mexican Cantina, Huntsville (favotite Mexican, hands down)
4. Diorgano's Pizza, Chicago (Can't beat the best Chicago style pizza you can get)
5. Whitt's BBQ, Decatur (Best sandwiches)
6. Terry's Pizza Huntsville (owner died but brand is coming back...awesome thin crust pizza)
7. Original Oyster House, Mobile and Gulf Shores (seafood lovers will not be disappointed)
8. Lambert's Cafe, Foley (fun and good food...hey how can it be bad when they throw the rolls?!)
9. Arthur Bryant's BBQ, Kansas City (ranks right up there with Dreamland and Gibson's)
10. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Birmingham (one of the best steaks you will find, at a price)
11. Bob Baumhower's Wings (my favorite wings since I was a student at Bama in the 80's). I had a friend who worked at the one on the strip who used to bring the biggest wings home and we we would pig out late at night when i was a UA student.
1. Dreamland, Tuscaloosa (Best sauce)
2. Big Bob Gibson BBQ, Decatur (Best ribs and loaded potatoes)
2. City Cafe, Northport (my second home when attending UA...awesome blue plate)
3. Rosie's Mexican Cantina, Huntsville (favotite Mexican, hands down)
4. Diorgano's Pizza, Chicago (Can't beat the best Chicago style pizza you can get)
5. Whitt's BBQ, Decatur (Best sandwiches)
6. Terry's Pizza Huntsville (owner died but brand is coming back...awesome thin crust pizza)
7. Original Oyster House, Mobile and Gulf Shores (seafood lovers will not be disappointed)
8. Lambert's Cafe, Foley (fun and good food...hey how can it be bad when they throw the rolls?!)
9. Arthur Bryant's BBQ, Kansas City (ranks right up there with Dreamland and Gibson's)
10. Ruth's Chris Steakhouse, Birmingham (one of the best steaks you will find, at a price)
11. Bob Baumhower's Wings (my favorite wings since I was a student at Bama in the 80's). I had a friend who worked at the one on the strip who used to bring the biggest wings home and we we would pig out late at night when i was a UA student.
On the Menu
We had a couple of really good meals this weekend. Friday night we did our grocery shopping and the boys said they wanted to have tacos. David and Matt preferred soft tacos and Joe wanted hard shell tacos. So we got one of those packs with six of each type of shell. We got our ground chuck, taco seasoning mix, salsa, shredded cheese, and sliced chilies. David wanted jalapenos so we got those too. We already had a tomato at home and I decided we would do without the lettuce.
Matt was my kitchen assistant. Mostly he made trips back and forth to the refrigerator and to the garbage can for me. In between those tasks he kept me entertained with his stories. During the past several weeks it seems like he is really bonding with me stronger than ever before. Not that we haven't always been close, but as he grows older he seems to really be more attentive.
We were talking about hair color for some reason and Matt said that he wished his hair was brown. I told him that I really liked his blonde hair and that most people would rather have naturally blonde hair like his. Then I said that most girls probably think he looks cute with that blonde hair. He said matter-of-factly, and I quote, "Yeah. I already figured that out." I said, "How did you figure that out?" He informed me that was why so many girls at Vinemont were always trying to be his girlfriend. He told me that at his new school he hasn't had that problem yet and he seemed glad about it. I told him that was ok. He didn't need to worry about any of that now!
Anyway, I have digressed. We all thoroughly enjoyed the tacos. The boys made comments on how much better they are when they are homemade. After I cleaned up the mess, I put David and Joe in charge of baking cookies. Chocolate chip cookies right out of the oven with a glass of cold milk is an awesome treat! Then we settled in for the movie. It was a great night.
Saturday after the game in Tuscaloosa, we went to the Alabama Bookstore on the Strip. The boys and I like to look at the souvenirs and sometimes they buy something with their own money. David bought an Alabama glass and Joe bought a cap. Matt really wanted a football and a headband. I told him that he couldn't get anything.
I asked David and Joe to distract Matt while I bought something for him. Matt, being sneaky himself, figured that I was up to something. He was "expecting" when we got to the car that I was going to "surprise" him with something. He couldn't stop grinning. On the way to the car, I actually hid the headband in my coat so that I could give it to him in the car. Since he figured it out, I informed him that he was wrong and that there was no surprise.
Matt chose Cracker Barrel as the restaurant for his birthday dinner so we stopped at the one on the east side of Tuscaloosa. After he got out of the car I put the headband on his seat so that he would see it when he got back to the car.
David had the blueberry pancakes. Matt and Joe both had the french toast. I had my usual choice, the "Uncle Herschel" breakfast (two scrambled egg whites, country ham, hash brown casserole, biscuits and gravy, and grits). I traded my grits to David for part of one of his pancakes. I also asked the waitress if they did anything for birthdays (for Matt) and she asked me in a whisper if he could eat chocolate and I said yes.
Matt seemed a bit taken aback by the attention showered on him when the staff came out and serenaded him with "Happy Birthday". He really enjoyed the chocolate fudge brownie with ice cream too. When I asked the waitress about that Matt acted like he didn't notice what I was doing. Later he told me that he heard the whole thing. You just can't put anything past that kid.
And he really liked the headband he found on his seat when we got back to the car!
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Click
The boys and I watched this movie Friday night. We ordered it via pay per view and enjoyed it thoroughly. There were a few parts that I wished were not in it in terms of adult themes and language, but we really enjoyed it. If I cry and laugh in the same movie, it's usually a good sign. Along the way there was some pretty funny stuff, even if it was on the crude side.
It reinforced the lesson that family should come first. It also illustrated how we humans try to "fast forward" through the times of our life that actually might be the best if we have more acceptance with regard to things that are out of our control. It reminds me of the Biblical idea that we should give thanks in all things.
I like movies that make me laugh, cry, and think in the space of two hours, without putting me to sleep. Thumbs up!
It reinforced the lesson that family should come first. It also illustrated how we humans try to "fast forward" through the times of our life that actually might be the best if we have more acceptance with regard to things that are out of our control. It reminds me of the Biblical idea that we should give thanks in all things.
I like movies that make me laugh, cry, and think in the space of two hours, without putting me to sleep. Thumbs up!
Bama Basketball
Yesterday the boys and I drove to Tuscaloosa to attend the Alabama versus Georgia basketball game. We got there in time for the boys to get the Jermareo Davidson growth chart that they were giving out free to the first 1,00o in attendence.
The game started off as bad as I've ever seen Alabama start in a basketball game. We were down 15-0 and after four minutes we were losing 18-2. I remember commenting to the boys that if Georgia kept up that pace they would beat us 180-20. Fortunately for us and 15,000 other Tide fans in attendance, that did not happen.
Things got worse before they got better, though. Alabama fell behind by 19 points later in the first half. It seemed like the 16 game home winning streak was over. The boys never lost faith though.
The main problem was defense. Alabama's shots finally began to fall later in the first half, but the defensive intensity just wasn't there. I made comments that there is no way to catch up without doing it defensively first.
Georgia was up 50-35 at the half. We just couldn't make a sustained run because of the poor defensive play.
At halftime a group of kids called (I think) the Hoover Dribblers kept us entertained. At that point I thought that might be the best part of the game for Alabama fans. I was wrong.
Down by 15 at the half, we still didn't make much of a run throughout most of the second half. We were still down by 11 points with four minutes remaining in the game.
(I must give some credit to David here. Late in the game he commented that it would be so cool if Alabama was losing or tied and scored the winning basket at the buzzer. Little did I know...)
Things began to change rapidly at that point. The team magicaly found an intensity level that could have helped them defeat any team in the country. The fans were also intense and loud as Alabama went on a 16-3 run to close the game.
Steele tied the game at 76 on a three pointer with 54 seconds to go. On Georgia's next posession, one of the officials blew a whistle against Georgia for a 35 second shot clock violation. After the play the referees debated amongst themselves whether Georgia truly violated the 35 second shot clock. The whole issue boiled down to whether the shot hit the rim or not.
It was finally decided that the whistle was blown in error because the ball did in fact hit the rim before the shot clock expired. It was explained after the game that at the time the whistle was blown the ball became "dead".
Since neither team had posession of the ball, Alabama gained posession because the alternating posession arrow pointed to them as Georgia had posession the last time Alabama forced a tie up.
That gave the ball to Alabama just seconds left to play. All-American guard Ronald Steele was closely guarded by the Georgia defender and was not able get an open shot. At the very last second he pivoted around the defender and took an off-balance shot that fell in literally at the buzzer to give Alabama its 17th consecutive home victory.
The crowd went wild. The boys and I were jumping around screaming and giving out high fives. David asked me on the way home if that was the most exciting basketball game I had ever seen in person. Well, I'm getting older and have probably forgotten way more than I remember, but that had to be at least the most exciting last minute I have seen. It would be very hard to top that last minute!
Roll Tide!
Tide Steele’s a Victory, Cecil Hurt, Tuscaloosa News
CECIL HURT: In the final minutes, we saw the real Steele Tuscaloosa News
Videos:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMtiM89irpI
http://memphistider.blogspot.com/2007/01/steeles-buzzer-beater.html
Photo from the Tuscaloosa News of Steele preparing for the game winning shot:
Problems
The boys and I have had some really good times during the past few days. However, I had some major respect, obedience, and compliance issues with one of my children (who shall remain nameless on this blog) on Saturday morning that resulted in a lot of tears and hurt feelings for both of us.
I try to be patient, but there are times, in my opinion, that a parent needs to "draw a line in the sand" and warn a child that there will be consequences for crossing that line. I am also of the opinion that our standards as Christian parents should be fairly high when it comes to expectations about respect, obedience, and honor.
Furthermore, once consequences are clearly communicated, they must be carried out or there is no point in having any expectations in the first place. These issues can be especially difficult for those of us who are single parents.
Well, that is what happened yesterday morning. The child in question was either unable or unwilling to accept responsibility for his own actions. He blamed his punishment on me saying that I was showing favoritism to his brothers. At another point he claimed that it occured because he thought that I "liked" doing it.
It would have been clear to anyone, except him, that I did not like doing it at all. If I made a mistake, it was that I was too patient in that I kept pushing the line of expectations back. I should have issued a warning sooner regarding consequences and carried them out earlier. Part of the reason I didn't do that is that I do NOT like punishing my children! Like any good parent, I want them to be happy and blessed.
I also want to debunk the idea that I like (or love) any of them more than the other. Once again, I find that impossible to do. I go out of my way to avoid that being not only a reality, but also a perception. It may sound like a cliche', but they are all unique, special, and lovable in their own ways. No, I don't like everything they do and say, but I love them all the same.
I think that the reason he blamed his punishment on me is that he did not want to face up to his own issues. He did not want to admit to himself, much less me, that he was in the wrong. There is nothing too unusual about that.
I think we all as humans are born with a difficulty in accepting that we are at fault and deserving of consequences for our actions. Those who learn the importance of that type of humility and develop it will find the balanced and honest views of ourselves that will allow us to be in a position to be blessed.
As a matter of fact, that is the whole basis of Christianity; admitting that we are sinners in need of a savior. I pray for my childrent that they will all grow and develop in this area of Godly humility. For that matter, I hope to grow in that as well!
The good news was that we all overcame the difficulties. We prayed, read some Bible verses, and enjoyed a great Saturday together. And when the day was over, there was plenty of love, hugs, and kisses to go around.
I try to be patient, but there are times, in my opinion, that a parent needs to "draw a line in the sand" and warn a child that there will be consequences for crossing that line. I am also of the opinion that our standards as Christian parents should be fairly high when it comes to expectations about respect, obedience, and honor.
Furthermore, once consequences are clearly communicated, they must be carried out or there is no point in having any expectations in the first place. These issues can be especially difficult for those of us who are single parents.
Well, that is what happened yesterday morning. The child in question was either unable or unwilling to accept responsibility for his own actions. He blamed his punishment on me saying that I was showing favoritism to his brothers. At another point he claimed that it occured because he thought that I "liked" doing it.
It would have been clear to anyone, except him, that I did not like doing it at all. If I made a mistake, it was that I was too patient in that I kept pushing the line of expectations back. I should have issued a warning sooner regarding consequences and carried them out earlier. Part of the reason I didn't do that is that I do NOT like punishing my children! Like any good parent, I want them to be happy and blessed.
I also want to debunk the idea that I like (or love) any of them more than the other. Once again, I find that impossible to do. I go out of my way to avoid that being not only a reality, but also a perception. It may sound like a cliche', but they are all unique, special, and lovable in their own ways. No, I don't like everything they do and say, but I love them all the same.
I think that the reason he blamed his punishment on me is that he did not want to face up to his own issues. He did not want to admit to himself, much less me, that he was in the wrong. There is nothing too unusual about that.
I think we all as humans are born with a difficulty in accepting that we are at fault and deserving of consequences for our actions. Those who learn the importance of that type of humility and develop it will find the balanced and honest views of ourselves that will allow us to be in a position to be blessed.
As a matter of fact, that is the whole basis of Christianity; admitting that we are sinners in need of a savior. I pray for my childrent that they will all grow and develop in this area of Godly humility. For that matter, I hope to grow in that as well!
The good news was that we all overcame the difficulties. We prayed, read some Bible verses, and enjoyed a great Saturday together. And when the day was over, there was plenty of love, hugs, and kisses to go around.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
It doesn't cost anything to be nice...
"Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant - Be Nice to People"
At a TD Club meeting many years before his death, Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant told the following story, which was typical of the way he operated.
"I had just been named the new head coach at Alabama and was off in my old car down in South Alabama recruiting a prospect who was supposed to have been a pretty good player, and I was havin' trouble finding the place.
Getting hungry, I spied an old cinder block building with a small sign out front that simply said 'Restaurant.' I pull up, go in and every head in the place turns to stare at me. Seems I'm the only white 'fella' in the place. But the food smelled good, so I skip a table and go up to a cement bar and sit. A big ole man in a tee shirt and cap comes over and says, 'What do you need?' I told him I needed lunch and what did they have today? He says, 'You probably won't like it here, today we're having chitlins, collard greens and black eyed peas with cornbread. I'll bet you don't even know what chitlins are, do you?' I looked him square in the eye and said, 'I'm from Arkansas. I've probably eaten a mile of them. Sounds like I'm in the right place.' They all smiled as he left to serve me up a big plate.
When he comes back he says, 'You ain't from around here, then?' And, I explain I'm the new football coach up in Tuscaloosa at the University and I'm here to find whatever that boy's name was, and he says, 'Yeah I've heard of him, he's supposed to be pretty good.' And, he gives me directions to the school so I can meet him and his coach.
As I'm paying up to leave, I remember my manners and leave a tip, not too big to be flashy, but a good one, and he told me lunch was on him, but I told him for a lunch that good, I felt I should pay.
The big man asked me if I had a photograph or something he could hang up to show I'd been there. I was so new that I didn't have any yet. It really wasn't that big a thing back then to be asked for, but I took a napkin and wrote his name and address on it and told him I'd get him one.
I met the kid I was lookin' for later that afternoon, and I don't remember his name but do remember I didn't think much of him when I met him. I had wasted a day, or so I thought.
When I got back to Tuscaloosa late that night, I took that napkin from my shirt pocket and put it under my keys so I wouldn't forget it. Heck, back then I was excited that anybody would want a picture of me. And, the next day we found a picture, and I wrote on it, 'Thanks for the best lunch I've ever had, Paul Bear Bryant.'
Now, let's go a whole buncha' years down the road. Now we have black players at Alabama, and I'm back down in that part of the country scouting an offensive lineman we sure needed. Y'all remember (and I forget the name, but it's not important to the story), well, anyway, he's got two friends going to Auburn, and he tells me he's got his heart set on Auburn, too, so I leave empty handed and go on to see some others while I'm down there.
Two days later, I'm in my office in Tuscaloosa, and the phone rings, and it's this kid who just turned me down, and he says, 'Coach, do you still want me at Alabama?' And, I said, 'Yes, I sure do.' And, he says, o.k., he'll come. And, I say, 'Well, son, what changed your mind?' And, he said, 'When my grandpa found out that I had a chance to play for you and said no, he pitched a fit and told me I wasn't going nowhere but Alabama and wasn't playing for nobody but you. He thinks a lot of you and has ever since y'all met.'
Well, I didn't know his granddad from Adam's housecat so I asked him who his granddaddy was, and he said, 'You probly don't remember him, but you ate in his restaurant your first year at Alabama, and you sent him a picture that he's had hung in that place ever since. That picture's his pride and joy, and he still tells everybody about the day that Bear Bryant came in and had chitlins with him. My grandpa said that when you left there, he never expected you to remember him or to send him that picture, but you kept your word to him, and to Grandpa, that's everything. He said you could teach me more than football and I had to play for a man like you, so I guess I'm going to.'
I was floored. But, I learned that the lessons my mama taught me were always right. It don't cost nuthin' to be nice. It don't cost nuthin' to do the right thing most of the time, and it costs a lot to lose your good name by breakin' your word to someone. When I went back to sign that boy, I looked up his Grandpa, and he's still running that place, but it looks a lot better now, and he didn't have chitlins that day, but he had some ribs that woulda' made Dreamland proud, and I made sure I posed for a lot of pictures; and don't think I didn't leave some new ones for him, too, along with a signed football. I made it clear to all my assistants to keep this story and these lessons in mind when they're out on the road. And, if you remember anything else from me, remember this - It really doesn't cost anything to be nice, and the rewards can be unimaginable."
Coach Bryant was in the presence of these few gentlemen for only minutes, and he defined himself for life, to these gentlemen, as a nice man.
Regardless of our profession, we do define ourselves by how we treat others and how we behave in the presence of others, and, most of the time, we have only minutes or seconds to leave a lasting impression - we can be rude, crude, arrogant, cantankerous, or we can be nice. Nice is always a better choice.
I like what Stephen Grellet, French/American religious leader (1773-1855), said, "I expect to pass through the world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do, or any kindness I can show to any creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer it, for I shall not pass this way again."
At a TD Club meeting many years before his death, Coach Paul "Bear" Bryant told the following story, which was typical of the way he operated.
"I had just been named the new head coach at Alabama and was off in my old car down in South Alabama recruiting a prospect who was supposed to have been a pretty good player, and I was havin' trouble finding the place.
Getting hungry, I spied an old cinder block building with a small sign out front that simply said 'Restaurant.' I pull up, go in and every head in the place turns to stare at me. Seems I'm the only white 'fella' in the place. But the food smelled good, so I skip a table and go up to a cement bar and sit. A big ole man in a tee shirt and cap comes over and says, 'What do you need?' I told him I needed lunch and what did they have today? He says, 'You probably won't like it here, today we're having chitlins, collard greens and black eyed peas with cornbread. I'll bet you don't even know what chitlins are, do you?' I looked him square in the eye and said, 'I'm from Arkansas. I've probably eaten a mile of them. Sounds like I'm in the right place.' They all smiled as he left to serve me up a big plate.
When he comes back he says, 'You ain't from around here, then?' And, I explain I'm the new football coach up in Tuscaloosa at the University and I'm here to find whatever that boy's name was, and he says, 'Yeah I've heard of him, he's supposed to be pretty good.' And, he gives me directions to the school so I can meet him and his coach.
As I'm paying up to leave, I remember my manners and leave a tip, not too big to be flashy, but a good one, and he told me lunch was on him, but I told him for a lunch that good, I felt I should pay.
The big man asked me if I had a photograph or something he could hang up to show I'd been there. I was so new that I didn't have any yet. It really wasn't that big a thing back then to be asked for, but I took a napkin and wrote his name and address on it and told him I'd get him one.
I met the kid I was lookin' for later that afternoon, and I don't remember his name but do remember I didn't think much of him when I met him. I had wasted a day, or so I thought.
When I got back to Tuscaloosa late that night, I took that napkin from my shirt pocket and put it under my keys so I wouldn't forget it. Heck, back then I was excited that anybody would want a picture of me. And, the next day we found a picture, and I wrote on it, 'Thanks for the best lunch I've ever had, Paul Bear Bryant.'
Now, let's go a whole buncha' years down the road. Now we have black players at Alabama, and I'm back down in that part of the country scouting an offensive lineman we sure needed. Y'all remember (and I forget the name, but it's not important to the story), well, anyway, he's got two friends going to Auburn, and he tells me he's got his heart set on Auburn, too, so I leave empty handed and go on to see some others while I'm down there.
Two days later, I'm in my office in Tuscaloosa, and the phone rings, and it's this kid who just turned me down, and he says, 'Coach, do you still want me at Alabama?' And, I said, 'Yes, I sure do.' And, he says, o.k., he'll come. And, I say, 'Well, son, what changed your mind?' And, he said, 'When my grandpa found out that I had a chance to play for you and said no, he pitched a fit and told me I wasn't going nowhere but Alabama and wasn't playing for nobody but you. He thinks a lot of you and has ever since y'all met.'
Well, I didn't know his granddad from Adam's housecat so I asked him who his granddaddy was, and he said, 'You probly don't remember him, but you ate in his restaurant your first year at Alabama, and you sent him a picture that he's had hung in that place ever since. That picture's his pride and joy, and he still tells everybody about the day that Bear Bryant came in and had chitlins with him. My grandpa said that when you left there, he never expected you to remember him or to send him that picture, but you kept your word to him, and to Grandpa, that's everything. He said you could teach me more than football and I had to play for a man like you, so I guess I'm going to.'
I was floored. But, I learned that the lessons my mama taught me were always right. It don't cost nuthin' to be nice. It don't cost nuthin' to do the right thing most of the time, and it costs a lot to lose your good name by breakin' your word to someone. When I went back to sign that boy, I looked up his Grandpa, and he's still running that place, but it looks a lot better now, and he didn't have chitlins that day, but he had some ribs that woulda' made Dreamland proud, and I made sure I posed for a lot of pictures; and don't think I didn't leave some new ones for him, too, along with a signed football. I made it clear to all my assistants to keep this story and these lessons in mind when they're out on the road. And, if you remember anything else from me, remember this - It really doesn't cost anything to be nice, and the rewards can be unimaginable."
Coach Bryant was in the presence of these few gentlemen for only minutes, and he defined himself for life, to these gentlemen, as a nice man.
Regardless of our profession, we do define ourselves by how we treat others and how we behave in the presence of others, and, most of the time, we have only minutes or seconds to leave a lasting impression - we can be rude, crude, arrogant, cantankerous, or we can be nice. Nice is always a better choice.
I like what Stephen Grellet, French/American religious leader (1773-1855), said, "I expect to pass through the world but once. Any good, therefore, that I can do, or any kindness I can show to any creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer it, for I shall not pass this way again."
Sunday, January 07, 2007
A Matthew Story
Last night Matt (my eight year old) did something that just amazed me. We were sitting on the couch together playing a game. He paused the game and said, "Dad are you sad?" I said, "No, why?" He said, "I just thought you looked sad." I reassured him that I was fine and I wondered why he thought that, but mostly I was just proud of him for being so sensitive, considerate, and empathetic. It made me feel so proud of him.
And if all that wasn't enough, just a moment later he said, "I love you, Dad."
Wow!
And if all that wasn't enough, just a moment later he said, "I love you, Dad."
Wow!
Fun Times...
I really enjoyed the times with the boys since Thursday night. That night I gave them the autographed football that Alabama quarterback John Parker Wilson signed earlier in the day for me. I also gave them each the collector's edition of the Tuscaloosa News about the hiring of Coach Nick Saban. They played their new drums for the first time and watched some of the sports news with me. We had ham and blackeyed peas for supper.
Friday night I gave them each the Ronald Steele backpack that I was able to get when I visited the University on Thursday. I brought home two little Caesar's pizzas for supper which were enjoyed by all. We played drums, Xbox, wrestled, and generally had a good time.
Saturday we practiced baseball over at the Vinemont ball field, watched some of the Alabama basketball team's loss to Arkansas, burned branches in the backyard in our burn pile, and did some grocery shopping. After the shopping, David and Joe attempted to make sausage and pancakes for supper. The sausage turned out fine, but they ended up asking for my help with the pancakes. We learned that it's impossible to make an edible pancake if the batter is only slightly thicker than water.
Saturday night we watched the movie, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" on VH1. The boys had not seen it before. They enjoyed watching this bit of 1980's fun every bit as much as I did. We started to watch M*A*S*H, but about an hour into the show, around midnight, I realized that we were watching the final episode that was over two hours long. They were disappointed, but I made the decision that we needed to get to bed or we wouldn't feel like getting up in time for church in the morning.
Today we did get up in time for church and went to the 10:45 a.m. service at Northbrook. We stopped at Wendy's for a burger for lunch. We drove home in the middle of a torrential downpour. We played Xbox games such as bowling, baseball, racing, and basketball. The boys drummed and David played his CD's and Joe shot his bb gun out in the yard after the rain ended. As usual, I think I did a pretty good job spending focused time with all three boys as well as some quality on-on-one time.
Since I don't have them all of the time plus the fact that these days pass so quickly and will never come again, I try to really focus on them and appreciate these moments in time.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
President Gerald R. Ford
Former President Ford, our 38th President, died a week ago at age 93. Today he was eulogized by President Bush, Former President Bush, Former secretary of State Henry Kissinger, and former NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Brokaw. He was also eulogized by Vice President Cheney during the "State Funeral" last weekend. All of these were insightful and interesting.
Here are the transcripts:
George H.W. Bush
President Bush
Tom Brokaw
Henry Kissinger
This summer my boys and I were in Grand Rapids the day after Ford's 93rd birthday. We visited and were impressed with the Ford Museum.
Here are the transcripts:
George H.W. Bush
President Bush
Tom Brokaw
Henry Kissinger
This summer my boys and I were in Grand Rapids the day after Ford's 93rd birthday. We visited and were impressed with the Ford Museum.
Monday, January 01, 2007
Got the tee-shirt...
My sister treated me to a little taste of Alabama in Chicago on Saturday December 23, 2006. We ate at the Houndstooth Saloon. I had the buffalo wings, which were superb. I also sampled my sister's pulled pork barbecue sandwich and fried potatoes, which were also good, but definitely prepared in the midwestern style. We discussed the possibility of me flying up next year to watch a Bama game with her there. If you are a Tide fan who finds yourself in Chicago, it is just a few blocks south of Wrigley Field on Clark Street.
Christmas and Living Like You are Dying
My three sons, my parents, and my sister all spent Christmas and the following days together in Huntsville. As always we had a tremendous time together. Christmas evening Mom made the traditional meal: turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy, fruit salad, and cake. After supper we exchanged gifts.
My sister was in Huntsville until Thursday, so all six of us were together Monday through Thursday. I can probably count on one hand the number of days each year that our entire family is together in one place at one time. Because of that, this is definitely one of the best times of the year. My parents are 76 and 74. The last few years I have started thinking quite a bit about the possibility that they could pass away at any time.
It is so easy to get caught in the trap of thinking that things "will always be this way". I have celebrated Christmas with my parents 41 years in a row; 35 of those have been in the same house in Northeast Huntsville, at the foot of Monte Sano. It is only natural to think this will continue. The reality we all must face, though, is that it will certainly not always be like this.
I may never see either of my parents alive again. The same can be said, though perhaps it is less likely, regarding my sister or my sons. It is also possible that they may never see me again. I am not trying to sound overly maudlin or pessimistic. It's just that we need to consider these realities in order to live better quality lives.
If someone out there happens to read this post, my hope is that you pause and think about these things in your own life. These thoughts, in and of themselves, are most unpleasant and not something that should be dwelt upon. Nevertheless, they are real and we need to reach out more to those we love.
Here's a song by Tim McGraw that sums it all up...
Live Like You Weere Dying
I went Rocky Mountain climbing
I went 2.7 seconds on a bull named FuManchu
and then I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter
and I watched an eagle as it was flying
and he said someday I hope you get the chance
to live like you were dying.
To live like you were dying
To live like you were dying
To live like you were dying
To live like you were dying
My sister was in Huntsville until Thursday, so all six of us were together Monday through Thursday. I can probably count on one hand the number of days each year that our entire family is together in one place at one time. Because of that, this is definitely one of the best times of the year. My parents are 76 and 74. The last few years I have started thinking quite a bit about the possibility that they could pass away at any time.
It is so easy to get caught in the trap of thinking that things "will always be this way". I have celebrated Christmas with my parents 41 years in a row; 35 of those have been in the same house in Northeast Huntsville, at the foot of Monte Sano. It is only natural to think this will continue. The reality we all must face, though, is that it will certainly not always be like this.
I may never see either of my parents alive again. The same can be said, though perhaps it is less likely, regarding my sister or my sons. It is also possible that they may never see me again. I am not trying to sound overly maudlin or pessimistic. It's just that we need to consider these realities in order to live better quality lives.
If someone out there happens to read this post, my hope is that you pause and think about these things in your own life. These thoughts, in and of themselves, are most unpleasant and not something that should be dwelt upon. Nevertheless, they are real and we need to reach out more to those we love.
Here's a song by Tim McGraw that sums it all up...
Live Like You Weere Dying
He said I was in my early forties
with a lot of life before me
when a moment came that stopped me on a dime
and I spent most of the next days
looking at the x-rays
Talking bout the options
and talking bout sweet time
I asked him when it sank in
that this might really be the real end
how's it hit you when you get that kinda news
man what'd you do
and he said
I went sky diving
I went Rocky Mountain climbing
I went 2.7 seconds on a bull named FuManchu
and I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter
and I gave forgiveness I'd been denying
and he said someday I hope you get the chance
to live like you were dying.
He said I was finally the husband
that most the time I wasn't
and I became a friend a friend would like to have
and all the sudden going fishin
wasn't such an imposition
and I went three times that year I lost my dad
well I finally read the good book
and I took a good long hard look
at what I'd do if I could do it all again
and then
I went sky diving
I went Rocky Mountain climbing
I went 2.7 seconds on a bull named FuManchu
and I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter
and I gave forgiveness I'd been denying
and he said someday I hope you get the chance
to live like you were dying.
Like tomorrow was a gift and you got eternity to think about
what'd you do with it what did you do with it
what did I do with it
what would I do with it'
I went Rocky Mountain climbing
I went 2.7 seconds on a bull named FuManchu
and then I loved deeper and I spoke sweeter
and I watched an eagle as it was flying
and he said someday I hope you get the chance
to live like you were dying.
To live like you were dying
To live like you were dying
To live like you were dying
To live like you were dying
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
'Twas the Weekend Before Christmas
Friday December 22 I drove to Chicago. I left Vinemont at 8 o'clock sharp and exactly 642 miles later, at 5:40 p.m., I arrived at my sister's place on the north side. I spent Friday night and Saturday in Chicago with my sister before driving back to Alabama with her on Sunday. Other that wanting to visit her, one of the original reasons for this brief trip was because she has a nice drum set that she wanted to give the boys for Christmas but we had no other way of getting it to Alabama.
My sister and I had a great visit. Friday night we played Trivial Pursuit and listened to Christmas music. My sister has the Rhaposdy music service on her computer and we eventually made up a really fun game of name that artist. We would alternate playing a song that we looked up and the other persson had to guess the artist. We had so much fun doing this that we stayed up until 3 a.m. doing it, despite the fact that I had driven 642 miles for 9 hours and 42 minutes. The surge of caffeine left in my body from the drive probably didn't hurt either!
Saturday we actually slept in a little bit. After that we did a little Christmas shopping and ate at the Houndstooth Saloon, just down Clark Street from Wrigley Field. My sister bought my meal. The buffalo wings were great! That was a cool experience; a little taste of Alabama in the Windy City. After shopping, I wrapped presents and loaded the drums and the rest of the stuff in the car. We ended up staying up too late again playing muical trivia using Rhapsody.
Sunday we drove back to Alabama, We left at 9:15, stopped very little, and arrived in Alabama after 6 p.m. Christmas eve we hung out with Mom and Dad and looked forward to Christmas with the boys.
My sister and I had a great visit. Friday night we played Trivial Pursuit and listened to Christmas music. My sister has the Rhaposdy music service on her computer and we eventually made up a really fun game of name that artist. We would alternate playing a song that we looked up and the other persson had to guess the artist. We had so much fun doing this that we stayed up until 3 a.m. doing it, despite the fact that I had driven 642 miles for 9 hours and 42 minutes. The surge of caffeine left in my body from the drive probably didn't hurt either!
Saturday we actually slept in a little bit. After that we did a little Christmas shopping and ate at the Houndstooth Saloon, just down Clark Street from Wrigley Field. My sister bought my meal. The buffalo wings were great! That was a cool experience; a little taste of Alabama in the Windy City. After shopping, I wrapped presents and loaded the drums and the rest of the stuff in the car. We ended up staying up too late again playing muical trivia using Rhapsody.
Sunday we drove back to Alabama, We left at 9:15, stopped very little, and arrived in Alabama after 6 p.m. Christmas eve we hung out with Mom and Dad and looked forward to Christmas with the boys.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Lately...
I don't know if it's writer's block, stress, or what, but I haven't felt as inspired as usual to update some of my blogs, including this one. I have kept up with my weather blog. The weather geek in me has really enjoyed the fog that we have seen in North Alabama during the past week.
I haven't updated the Alabama Crimson Tide Blog and the coach search seems to have been suspended pending the end of the NFL regular season and the college bowl games. The current thinking is that Alabama hasn't given up on Nick Saban (the Great Saban) of the Miami Dolphins. We'll see.
I have missed the boys. They have been with their Mom since last Friday. Last Thursday night I let them open some of their presents because I probably won't see them until Christmas day. I have never been outspoken about anything personal on this blog before, and I will not start now. Suffice it to say that I have been having trouble spending much time with the boys lately, whether it be on the phone or in person. Without going into the gory details, that is sad and wrong. I can't wait until Christmas!
I haven't updated the Alabama Crimson Tide Blog and the coach search seems to have been suspended pending the end of the NFL regular season and the college bowl games. The current thinking is that Alabama hasn't given up on Nick Saban (the Great Saban) of the Miami Dolphins. We'll see.
I have missed the boys. They have been with their Mom since last Friday. Last Thursday night I let them open some of their presents because I probably won't see them until Christmas day. I have never been outspoken about anything personal on this blog before, and I will not start now. Suffice it to say that I have been having trouble spending much time with the boys lately, whether it be on the phone or in person. Without going into the gory details, that is sad and wrong. I can't wait until Christmas!
Monday, December 11, 2006
Prattville 35 Hoover 21
Saturday afternoon I took the boys to Legion Field in Birmingham to see the 6A high school football championship game in which Prattville defeated Hollywood High (aka Hoover High) 35-21. Hollywood High was on one of Prattville's signs, obviously referring to Hoover's numerous appearances on MTV and CMT on the show, "Two-a Day's".
The best part of it all for me was telling the boys about my memories of the "old gray lady", Legion Field. The first time I saw a game in Legion Field was 10/25/75 with my Dad when we saw Bear Bryant's Crimson Tide defeat the TCU Horned Frogs 45-0. I saw many Bama games there through the years. The most notable was the 1985 Iron Bowl, when Van Tiffin kicked a 52-yard field goal to beat Auburn. Another one that stood out was Alabama's 1986 defeat of Notre Dame, which was immortalized in Daniel Moore's painting of "The Sack".
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Blog Roundup...
I have been unusually busy with my other blogs during the time I spend on blogging so I haven't written much of substance here in a while. If you are looking for substance you won't get it here today either. My boys are sleeping in but they are about to wake up.
We went to the rodeo last night. The boys, especially Joe, talked me into taking them. I was tired and had no natural inclination to go to a rodeo. But, as usual when I try new things, I enjoyed it. I think the thing I enjoyed about it the most was watching the boys have fun. Things like: Matt laughing his head off at the clown's antics, Joe's description and analysis of the animals and riders, and watching David take pictures. There were a couple of little girls behind us that were Matt's age, who, while watching the cowboy tie up the calfs' legs said, "Awwww...don't hurt him." We thought that was cute and funny.
One thing about the rodeo, it is definitely not the place to go if you are caught up in political correctness or animal rights. The boys and I had good time, though.
---
Two weeks ago we visited my parents and the boys and I must have gotten rid of a few million leaves. I climbed up on the house and cleaned out the gutters. I used to love doing that when I was in my teens and twenties. I didn't mind doing it in my 30's. Now that I am in my 40's I think my days of getting on the roof are numbered. My parens' house is a split level house. It is amazing how the human mind works. I do not mind being close to the edge on the lower level very much. But being close to the edge on the second level, especially the part above the driveway, freaks me out. The view is awesome up there, though. David and Joe wanted up there so badly but being the protective parent that I am I told them they would have to wait a few years. I do have a photo of myself, when I was about David's age, of me on the roof painting. Maybe they can take over when I am too old!
We went to the rodeo last night. The boys, especially Joe, talked me into taking them. I was tired and had no natural inclination to go to a rodeo. But, as usual when I try new things, I enjoyed it. I think the thing I enjoyed about it the most was watching the boys have fun. Things like: Matt laughing his head off at the clown's antics, Joe's description and analysis of the animals and riders, and watching David take pictures. There were a couple of little girls behind us that were Matt's age, who, while watching the cowboy tie up the calfs' legs said, "Awwww...don't hurt him." We thought that was cute and funny.
One thing about the rodeo, it is definitely not the place to go if you are caught up in political correctness or animal rights. The boys and I had good time, though.
---
Two weeks ago we visited my parents and the boys and I must have gotten rid of a few million leaves. I climbed up on the house and cleaned out the gutters. I used to love doing that when I was in my teens and twenties. I didn't mind doing it in my 30's. Now that I am in my 40's I think my days of getting on the roof are numbered. My parens' house is a split level house. It is amazing how the human mind works. I do not mind being close to the edge on the lower level very much. But being close to the edge on the second level, especially the part above the driveway, freaks me out. The view is awesome up there, though. David and Joe wanted up there so badly but being the protective parent that I am I told them they would have to wait a few years. I do have a photo of myself, when I was about David's age, of me on the roof painting. Maybe they can take over when I am too old!
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Tonight with the boys
David helped me cook. Actually he practically did it all, making macaroni and cheese and blackeyed peas. He and I ate some shrimp with cocktail sauce. Matt and Joe tried it again but were not too impressed. We watched two interesting shows on the National Geographic Channel. The first one was about the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier. The second program was about the man-made palm islands being created in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. We also talked to my sister on the phone.
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Thanksgiving weekend
It was a great Thanksgiving weekend. The weather did not hurt, with highs around 70 all four days. On Thursday I ate a wonderful meal with my mom and dad. She made turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, dressing, and corn. She also made my favorite traditional strawberry gelatin cake.
Friday I hung out with my dad before going out to get some photos developed. I went to four places and wasted most of my afternoon before I finally found a place that had a machine that worked. That evening I got the boys and we ate and took it easy.
Saturday we watched the Clemson-South Carolina game with my dad and then we spent most of the afternoon playing football down at the park. During the evening the boys played cars, worked on their baseball cards and we watched a little football and basketball on TV. Before bed, I read some out of my old journals to David and Joe. They were pretty entertained by that and seemed quite interested. Especially the story about sleeping in class.
Today we spent most of the day working outside. We raked, blew leaves, mowed leaves, got leaves off of the patio cover, and I climbed up on the roof to clean out the gutters. I'm nearly too old to be climbing up on that roof, but not quite. Or as football broadcaster Lee Corso would say, "Not so fast, my friend!"
We got a lot done and then we watched the end of the Bears game with my dad. My mom made us a good meal. We had David's favorite macoroni and cheese, green beans, and hamburgers. We had our choice of mom's fruit salad, cookies, ice cream or strawberry cake for dessert. It was great. Now it's getting late and we are getting ready to go home. Thanks, Lord, for a wonderful time with a wonderful family.
Friday I hung out with my dad before going out to get some photos developed. I went to four places and wasted most of my afternoon before I finally found a place that had a machine that worked. That evening I got the boys and we ate and took it easy.
Saturday we watched the Clemson-South Carolina game with my dad and then we spent most of the afternoon playing football down at the park. During the evening the boys played cars, worked on their baseball cards and we watched a little football and basketball on TV. Before bed, I read some out of my old journals to David and Joe. They were pretty entertained by that and seemed quite interested. Especially the story about sleeping in class.
Today we spent most of the day working outside. We raked, blew leaves, mowed leaves, got leaves off of the patio cover, and I climbed up on the roof to clean out the gutters. I'm nearly too old to be climbing up on that roof, but not quite. Or as football broadcaster Lee Corso would say, "Not so fast, my friend!"
We got a lot done and then we watched the end of the Bears game with my dad. My mom made us a good meal. We had David's favorite macoroni and cheese, green beans, and hamburgers. We had our choice of mom's fruit salad, cookies, ice cream or strawberry cake for dessert. It was great. Now it's getting late and we are getting ready to go home. Thanks, Lord, for a wonderful time with a wonderful family.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Kica
This is the sweet kitten that travelled from Vinemont to Huntsville to Cincinnatti to Detroit to Chicago last July.
My sister has given "Kica" a good home.
My sister has given "Kica" a good home.
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Sad News From Lee High
Yesterday a school bus carrying Lee High School students tumbled off the I-565 overpass near Church Street in Huntsville. As of now, four students have died and over 30 others were injured. This story made national and world news. It struck close to home with me, as I graduated from Lee. I can't imagine the anguish of these students' families and friends.
4th teen dies from injuries in Huntsville bus wreck
Special Report from al.com
Crystal Renee McCrary, 17
Christine Collier, 16, a sophomore
Nicole Ford, 19, a senior
Tanesha Hill, 17, a senior
---
Class of 83
4th teen dies from injuries in Huntsville bus wreck
Special Report from al.com
Crystal Renee McCrary, 17
Christine Collier, 16, a sophomore
Nicole Ford, 19, a senior
Tanesha Hill, 17, a senior
---
Class of 83
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
Election Night - Local
The best part of this election night to me was the election of attorney Shelly Waters the District Judge in Morgan County. I have worked with her for over 10 years and she will prove to be an effective judge.
Here are a couple of articles:
Child support group honors Waters
Waters keeping position as district court judge
Here are a couple of articles:
Child support group honors Waters
Waters keeping position as district court judge
Election Night
On the National scene, the Democrat Party has regained control of the House of Representatives for the first time in 12 years. It also appears likely that they will regain control of the Senate, but that has not been confirmed as of this moment. This represents a significant change. Liberals in Congress will not allow Bush’s tax cuts to remain in place. Get ready for your taxes to go up. The President’s judicial nominees will stand no chance unless they are moderate to liberal. The Iraq policy and War on Terror will not be conducted the same way.
Either the President will compromise his principals so that he can get along with the Democrats and pass legislation or there will be gridlock. Gridlock is not always bad, but when it comes to national security issues, social issues, or taxes, gridlock may be very dangerous for the country.
So, why did the Republicans lose so much ground? It wasn’t the economy. Ethics is the first reason. Duncan Hunter, Tom Delay, and Mark Foley were poster children for the "Culture of Corruption" as Democrats called Republicans during the campaign. Many who lost races were guilty by association. The spineless Republican leadership (Hastert) repeatedly swept scandals under the rug, only to see the media and Democrats expose them later and blow them up in their faces right before the election. Another reason, somewhat related to ethics, is that they forgot why they were in office in the first place. What started as a conservative revolution in 1994 turned in to pack of wild spending RINO’s (Republicans in Name Only) by 2006.
Many pundits are trying to blame the President’s Iraq policy and defense policies. I honestly do not think this played as large of a role as many are claiming. How else can you explain why a pro-war Democrat (Lieberman) won and an anti-war Republican (Chafee) lost. Remember most of the new seats that were captured by Democrats were captured by conservative or moderate Democrats such as Jim Webb in Virginia or Tester in Montana. Just enough ‘Values voters’ in many of these races saw more to like in the Democrat candidates.
The problem for the President is that these "blue dog" moderate to conservative Democrats won’t be in positions of leadership. They probably feel as if they owe their election to Pelosi, Kennedy, Biden, Waxman, and other liberals will be calling the shots. Perhaps Republicans will learn that in most of the country, principled conservatism will still win in 2008. In 2006 voters decided that they might find that better in some new moderate Democrats.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Give It Away
I love this song by George Strait...especially the last verse...
She was stormin' through the house that day,
An' I could tell she was leavin'.
An' I thought: "Aw, she'll be back,"
Till she turned around an' pointed at the wall an said:
"That picture from our honeymoon,
"That night in Frisco Bay:
"Just give it away."
She said: "Give it away."
"An' that big four-poster king-size bed,
"Where so much love was made:
"Just give it away."
She said: "Just give it away."
"Just give it away.
"There ain't nothin' in this house worth fightin' over.
"Oh, an' we're both tired of fightin' anyway,
"So just give it away."
So I tried to move on,
But I found that each woman I held,
Just reminded me of that day.
Hmmm.
When that front door swung wide open,
She flung her diamond ring:
Said: "Give it away."
"Just give it away."
An' I said: "Now, honey, don't you even want,
"Your half of everything."
She said: "Give it away."
Just give it away.
Just give it away.
There ain't nothin' in this house worth fightin' over.
Oh, an' we're both tired of fightin' anyway,
So just give it away.
So I'm still right here where she left me,
Along with all the other things,
She don't care about anymore.
Mmmm.
Like that picture from our honeymoon,
That night in Frisco Bay:
She said: "Give it away."
Well, I can't give it away.
An' that big four-poster king-size bed,
Where all our love was made:
She said: "Give it away."
Well, I can't give it away.
I've got a furnished house, a diamond ring,
An' a lonely broken heart,
Full of love,
An' I can't even give it away.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
What a Day!
It was great hanging out with my friends Rob and Johnny, along with my son Joe yesterday, on our trip to Tuscaloosa for the Bama game...we talked about the following, and much, much, more...
Rick and Bubba: Dickie Nadmeyer, Dippin Dan, Dee and Dukes of Hazard, Willie and Wanda, Car Wash story, the event with Fox News this past week
Elections: tossing a coin this weekend, reading mail, surfing, researching
College Football: Shula, play calling, Finebaum, Auburn's chances, the game, losing to MSU, Bryant Museum
Old Classmates: Up to date with folks we've seen
Food at Work: too much good food that folks bring that is irresistable...doughnuts, cakes, etc
Medical Issues: hernias, surgery, rotator cuffs, high bp... I am getting old
School Lunches: pizza and corn, pears, mayo, and cheese
MLB, Cards win the world series, gold glove winners
I gave Rob CD's of the Cards and gave Johnny Bama programs
Joe's advice on nintendo
Electronics and growing older
FUN!!!!
Rick and Bubba: Dickie Nadmeyer, Dippin Dan, Dee and Dukes of Hazard, Willie and Wanda, Car Wash story, the event with Fox News this past week
Elections: tossing a coin this weekend, reading mail, surfing, researching
College Football: Shula, play calling, Finebaum, Auburn's chances, the game, losing to MSU, Bryant Museum
Old Classmates: Up to date with folks we've seen
Food at Work: too much good food that folks bring that is irresistable...doughnuts, cakes, etc
Medical Issues: hernias, surgery, rotator cuffs, high bp... I am getting old
School Lunches: pizza and corn, pears, mayo, and cheese
MLB, Cards win the world series, gold glove winners
I gave Rob CD's of the Cards and gave Johnny Bama programs
Joe's advice on nintendo
Electronics and growing older
FUN!!!!
Friday, November 03, 2006
Fairview 40 Vinemont 16
David's last football game was on Tuesday October 24. He got to play during the last play of the game. He said that Fairview scored 28 points in the first half and that Vinemont "won" the second half 16-14. That loss ended any hope that Vinemont had of making it to the playoffs this year. During the practice week prior to this game, David said his highlight was almost blocking a punt. It was his first year of organized football. He didn't get to play much but I think he enjoyed being part of the team.
World Series
I wrote about the first two games of the World Series in this space a few posts back. The Cardinals are World Champs for 2006. It was their 10th Championship in club history.
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Wednesday, November 01, 2006
ACSA Conference
I've been away from blogging lately because of business. I had a trip last week to the Alabama Gulf Coast for the Alabama Child Support Association Conference. The ACSA includes State DHR personnel and District Attorney staff from all 67 Alabama counties. It was an inspirational and informative conference as usual. Plus it is the one travel "perk" that we get. Above is a photo of where the conference was held. I will include additional photos I took during this trip on the Alabama Weather Blog.
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